MAYOR Jed Patrick Mabilog signed last week a sisterhood agreement with officials of Yulin, People’s Republic of China, making Iloilo City now a partner of Yulin.
Mabilog led a delegation of Ilonggo businessmen to Yulin in a week-long visit to China that also includes a trip to Huabei City, where Iloilo also aims to establish good socio-economic relations with.
Joining Mabilog in the trip were Ilonggo businessmen Allan Sy and Felipe Uygongco, as well as seven other delegates from the Manila Embassy who facilitated the visit of Yulin officials in Iloilo City early this year.
Mabilog said Yulin is a prefecture-level city in the Shaanxi province of China with a district center and 11 counties. He said it is a very progressive city in China and an exposition of products produced by small and medium entrepreneurs was ongoing during their visit.
The Iloilo City mayor said Yulin is an exponent of a “one town, one product” concept currently being implemented by the Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry.
Each village in Yulin is producing its own particular product that could be also implemented in Iloilo city and province, he added.
The visit to Huabei City, meanwhile, aimed to establish good relations and start linkages between Iloilo and the Chinese city.
The project may start the exchange of students between Huabei and Iloilo, which boasts of 11 universities and college where a number of Chinese students are currently enrolled.
Mabilog said he is planning to see Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor regarding the branding of specific products solely produced in the city to be exported to other areas.
The products may be produced in several areas of Iloilo but have to be branded exclusively as an Iloilo produce, he added. (Lydia C. Pendon)
Friday, October 28, 2011
News Update No helmet, no travel’ policy to be implemented Nov. 1
THE Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) will strictly implement the “No Helmet, No Travel” policy in the city starting November 1.
The implementation is in accordance with the directive from Police regional director Chief Superintendent Jufel Adriatico, who said that one of the causes of death in vehicular accidents, particularly motorcycle incidents, is the non-wearing of helmets.
“We already have a tarpaulin for this campaign so that the public would be informed of this campaign,” Police Chief Inspector Ariel Philip Pontillas, station commander of Police Station 1 in Divisoria, said.
Pontillas assured the public to apprehend not only the civilians but also police personnel who failed to wear standard protective motorcycle helmets.
He clarified that though the police are not deputized by the Land Transportation Office, they can still apprehend motorcycle riders without helmet through a city ordinance.
Under the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009, motorcycle drivers and back riders caught not wearing the standard protective motorcycle helmet while driving will be fined P1,500 for the first offense, P3,000 for the second offense and P5,000 for the third offense, and confiscation of the driver’s license for the fourth and succeeding offenses.
Adriatico said police violating the law will not just be fined but will also face administrative charges. If found guilty, police personnel would be suspended, he said.
The implementation is in accordance with the directive from Police regional director Chief Superintendent Jufel Adriatico, who said that one of the causes of death in vehicular accidents, particularly motorcycle incidents, is the non-wearing of helmets.
“We already have a tarpaulin for this campaign so that the public would be informed of this campaign,” Police Chief Inspector Ariel Philip Pontillas, station commander of Police Station 1 in Divisoria, said.
Pontillas assured the public to apprehend not only the civilians but also police personnel who failed to wear standard protective motorcycle helmets.
He clarified that though the police are not deputized by the Land Transportation Office, they can still apprehend motorcycle riders without helmet through a city ordinance.
Under the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009, motorcycle drivers and back riders caught not wearing the standard protective motorcycle helmet while driving will be fined P1,500 for the first offense, P3,000 for the second offense and P5,000 for the third offense, and confiscation of the driver’s license for the fourth and succeeding offenses.
Adriatico said police violating the law will not just be fined but will also face administrative charges. If found guilty, police personnel would be suspended, he said.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
News Update Philippines gets world's largest Ten Commandments
A building-sized edifice carved with the Bible's Ten Commandments was unveiled Wednesday in the Philippines, making it the largest tablet of its kind, according to Guinness World Records.
The tablet, a copy of the rules supposedly handed down by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, was inaugurated by city officials on a hill overlooking the northern resort city of Baguio.
A local religious group, donated the imposing 152.90 square metre (1,650 square foot) tablet to the city as they were presented a certificate from Guinness World Records.
"This beautiful and divine edifice will serve to drive away the evils of spirits that time and again emerge," said Baguio Congressman Bernardo Vergara at the inauguration.
"May it drive away evils of illegal drugs, gambling, prostitution."
The religious leader who sponsored the project, Grace Galindez-Gupana, topped her previous world record, attained in 2009 when she built a similar 65-square-metre tablet on a hill outside Manila.
The tablet, a copy of the rules supposedly handed down by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, was inaugurated by city officials on a hill overlooking the northern resort city of Baguio.
A local religious group, donated the imposing 152.90 square metre (1,650 square foot) tablet to the city as they were presented a certificate from Guinness World Records.
"This beautiful and divine edifice will serve to drive away the evils of spirits that time and again emerge," said Baguio Congressman Bernardo Vergara at the inauguration.
"May it drive away evils of illegal drugs, gambling, prostitution."
The religious leader who sponsored the project, Grace Galindez-Gupana, topped her previous world record, attained in 2009 when she built a similar 65-square-metre tablet on a hill outside Manila.
News Update UK maintains travel advisory vs. PH, warns of holiday crimes
The United Kingdom government is urging its residents visiting the Philippines to be extra cautious with the holidays approaching.
In its travel advisory, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) urged its residents to practice "sensible precautions."
"There is a high incidence of street crime and robberies, which often increases during the holiday season," the FCO added.
It noted of several street crimes in the metro, including "robberies, kidnapping, and explosions."
UK's FCO told its citizens to exercise caution and "arrange to be met at the airport or use hotel transfer services; use a driver or taxis from a reputable source and avoid displays of cash or jewelry."
"Even well lit and busy city areas cannot be assumed to be safe. You should [be] beware of strangers offering drinks or confectionery; criminals intent on robbery may lace these to render the victim unconscious," the UK FCO added.
The UK FCO also warned British Nationals of kidnapping threats and asked them to be vigilant especially when "travelling on public transport."
"Armed hold-ups have occurred on jeepneys and buses in the Philippines, and have in some cases resulted in fatalities," it said.
"The roadworthiness of some of these vehicles is also a concern," it added.
At the same time, UK has reiterated its standing travel ban to several specific areas in the country, particularly in Mindanao, amid "terrorist activity."
"We advise against all travel to south-west Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of ongoing terrorist and insurgent activity," the advisory noted.
FCO said that in 2010, some 95,000 British tourists visited the Philippines and such visits were "trouble free."
In its travel advisory, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) urged its residents to practice "sensible precautions."
"There is a high incidence of street crime and robberies, which often increases during the holiday season," the FCO added.
It noted of several street crimes in the metro, including "robberies, kidnapping, and explosions."
UK's FCO told its citizens to exercise caution and "arrange to be met at the airport or use hotel transfer services; use a driver or taxis from a reputable source and avoid displays of cash or jewelry."
"Even well lit and busy city areas cannot be assumed to be safe. You should [be] beware of strangers offering drinks or confectionery; criminals intent on robbery may lace these to render the victim unconscious," the UK FCO added.
The UK FCO also warned British Nationals of kidnapping threats and asked them to be vigilant especially when "travelling on public transport."
"Armed hold-ups have occurred on jeepneys and buses in the Philippines, and have in some cases resulted in fatalities," it said.
"The roadworthiness of some of these vehicles is also a concern," it added.
At the same time, UK has reiterated its standing travel ban to several specific areas in the country, particularly in Mindanao, amid "terrorist activity."
"We advise against all travel to south-west Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of ongoing terrorist and insurgent activity," the advisory noted.
FCO said that in 2010, some 95,000 British tourists visited the Philippines and such visits were "trouble free."
News Update Philippine troops seize camp as thousands flee
MANILA (AFP) - Troops have overrun a hideout occupied by gunmen in the southern Philippines after a week of fighting that left 13 dead and forced thousands of civilians to flee, officials said on Thursday.
Most of the estimated 100 gunmen holed up in the remote camp on Mindanao island had fled, although two surrendered earlier, said Philippine Army commander Lieutenant-General Arturo Ortiz.
'Yes, the camp of Commander Waning has been overrun,' Lt Gen Ortiz told reporters, referring to the alias of the gunmen's alleged leader, who has been ordered arrested by a court to stand trial for kidnapping.
'There are reports that he fled with 40 of his men and that he had been wounded and unable to walk due to his injuries,' Lt Gen Ortiz added. Several hundred troops were combing through the gunmen's hideout, in a marshy area that had been fortified with reinforced concrete bunkers, he added.
Most of the estimated 100 gunmen holed up in the remote camp on Mindanao island had fled, although two surrendered earlier, said Philippine Army commander Lieutenant-General Arturo Ortiz.
'Yes, the camp of Commander Waning has been overrun,' Lt Gen Ortiz told reporters, referring to the alias of the gunmen's alleged leader, who has been ordered arrested by a court to stand trial for kidnapping.
'There are reports that he fled with 40 of his men and that he had been wounded and unable to walk due to his injuries,' Lt Gen Ortiz added. Several hundred troops were combing through the gunmen's hideout, in a marshy area that had been fortified with reinforced concrete bunkers, he added.
News Update Trillanes: Destabilization plot may be possible
Amid denials by top military officials, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV on Wednesday said there may be plans to overthrow the Aquino administration due to alleged restlessness in the military.
"Yes (there may be destabilization plots). It is consistent with the information that we have gathered," Trillanes told reporters in a text message on Wednesday.
He said this a day after Malacañang dismissed rumors of a coup d' etat stemming from President Benigno Aquino III's refusal to declare an all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), whose members had killed over two dozens soldiers in recent attacks in Mindanao.
Instead of an alll-out war, Aquino on Monday said that he will pursue instead "all-out justice" to address the successive atrocities against the military.
But Trillanes, a former Navy officer, had said it is likely that the soldiers are disappointed with Aquino for not coming out with a stronger statement regarding the issue.
He noted, however, that he "seriously doubts" the alleged destabilization plot would "go beyond a coup rumor."
"Admittedly, the morale is low right now, (but) this is but normal and will probably wane soon. [The decision to allow the military] to conduct pursuit operations will help ease the soldiers' restiveness," he said.
"Let us remember that GMA (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) committed far worse crimes against the soldiers and the people but these same disgruntled officers never even considered rising up against her. So, by and large, all is well," he added.
Trillanes was among the soldiers who had called for the resignation of Arroyo during her term as president.
Meanwhile, Sen. Panfilo Lacson, in an earlier text message to reporters, had said reports of restlessness among Philippine law enforcers was not true.
"PNoy enjoys the support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police; the MILF issue is not a reason at all to cause destabilization of his leadership," said the senator, who used to head the PNP.
Last Tuesday, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office head Ricky Carandang said rumors of restlessness and demoralization in the military were just being exaggerated by some "elements."
Former Army spokesman Col. Antonio Parlade Jr. had claimed the military was demoralized following the death of 19 soldiers in the clash in Al-Barka, Basilan, early last week.
Dismayed by the military's performance that led to the deadly clash, Aquino relieved from their duties Parlade and Col. Alexander Macario, who was commander of Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) Basilan. — LBG
"Yes (there may be destabilization plots). It is consistent with the information that we have gathered," Trillanes told reporters in a text message on Wednesday.
He said this a day after Malacañang dismissed rumors of a coup d' etat stemming from President Benigno Aquino III's refusal to declare an all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), whose members had killed over two dozens soldiers in recent attacks in Mindanao.
Instead of an alll-out war, Aquino on Monday said that he will pursue instead "all-out justice" to address the successive atrocities against the military.
But Trillanes, a former Navy officer, had said it is likely that the soldiers are disappointed with Aquino for not coming out with a stronger statement regarding the issue.
He noted, however, that he "seriously doubts" the alleged destabilization plot would "go beyond a coup rumor."
"Admittedly, the morale is low right now, (but) this is but normal and will probably wane soon. [The decision to allow the military] to conduct pursuit operations will help ease the soldiers' restiveness," he said.
"Let us remember that GMA (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) committed far worse crimes against the soldiers and the people but these same disgruntled officers never even considered rising up against her. So, by and large, all is well," he added.
Trillanes was among the soldiers who had called for the resignation of Arroyo during her term as president.
Meanwhile, Sen. Panfilo Lacson, in an earlier text message to reporters, had said reports of restlessness among Philippine law enforcers was not true.
"PNoy enjoys the support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police; the MILF issue is not a reason at all to cause destabilization of his leadership," said the senator, who used to head the PNP.
Last Tuesday, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office head Ricky Carandang said rumors of restlessness and demoralization in the military were just being exaggerated by some "elements."
Former Army spokesman Col. Antonio Parlade Jr. had claimed the military was demoralized following the death of 19 soldiers in the clash in Al-Barka, Basilan, early last week.
Dismayed by the military's performance that led to the deadly clash, Aquino relieved from their duties Parlade and Col. Alexander Macario, who was commander of Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) Basilan. — LBG
News Update 16,000 people flee from south Philippine clashes
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — More than 16,000 people have fled from four southern Philippine towns where government troops have been battling Muslim guerrillas and outlaws in clashes that are endangering already-shaky peace talks and a years-long truce.
Attempts by Philippine authorities to arrest several current and former commanders of the 11,000-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front and allied gunmen accused of kidnappings for ransom and other crimes sparked separate deadly clashes last week in Zamboanga Sibugay province and on Basilan island.
The Moro group has been waging a bloody fight for self-rule in southern Mindanao region, homeland of minority Muslims in the predominantly Roman Catholic Philippines. A cease-fire has held since 2008.
President Benigno Aquino III said Monday his administration would continue talks with the insurgents but seek the arrest of criminals, including those from the rebel group.
The 120,000-strong military suffered one of its biggest losses in years in Basilan last week when troops tried to capture a fugitive rebel commander and other outlaws, igniting daylong fighting that killed 19 soldiers.
Fearing more clashes, nearly 6,000 villagers have fled from Al-Barka and outlying towns in Basilan, a predominantly Muslim province about 550 miles (880 kilometers) south of Manila, Office of Civil Defense Administrator Benito Ramos said.
In Zamboanga Sibugay, also in the south, about 10,800 villagers have fled to safety from three towns, including in coastal Payao, where air force OV-10 bomber planes, naval gunboats and about 700 army troops and police have been trying to flush out more than 120 former Muslim rebels and bandits encamped in a hilly forest, officials said.
Zamboanga Sibugay police chief Ruben Cariaga said military aircraft staged bombing runs for a second day Tuesday in Payao. Troops assaulted the bandits after OV-10 planes dropped bombs on their lair Monday but were met by heavy machine-gun fire that killed two soldiers, he said.
Cariaga said Tuesday that the gunmen, who include members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, had been surrounded.
The gunmen, accused of kidnappings for ransom, extortion and other crimes, may be holding at least one kidnap victim, officials said.
Moro Islamic Liberation Front spokesman Von Al Haq has urged the military to stop the Payao offensive, saying Muslim rebels from his group were among those surrounded by troops but the criminals being sought by authorities were not their members and not in the area under fire.
The Payao offensive has displaced many of his group's civilian followers and was endangering the cease-fire, Al Haq said. He expressed optimism the peace talks would survive the latest test.
"We've consistently said that the most civilized way to end the rebellion is through negotiations and not by the law of the gun," Al Haq told The Associated Press by telephone.
Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe, whose country has been backing the peace talks for years, said he hoped the cease-fire would be respected and that both sides would continue efforts to foster peace talks.
"The recent firefights are a source of serious concern for me because it is jeopardizing the peace process," Urabe said.
Attempts by Philippine authorities to arrest several current and former commanders of the 11,000-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front and allied gunmen accused of kidnappings for ransom and other crimes sparked separate deadly clashes last week in Zamboanga Sibugay province and on Basilan island.
The Moro group has been waging a bloody fight for self-rule in southern Mindanao region, homeland of minority Muslims in the predominantly Roman Catholic Philippines. A cease-fire has held since 2008.
President Benigno Aquino III said Monday his administration would continue talks with the insurgents but seek the arrest of criminals, including those from the rebel group.
The 120,000-strong military suffered one of its biggest losses in years in Basilan last week when troops tried to capture a fugitive rebel commander and other outlaws, igniting daylong fighting that killed 19 soldiers.
Fearing more clashes, nearly 6,000 villagers have fled from Al-Barka and outlying towns in Basilan, a predominantly Muslim province about 550 miles (880 kilometers) south of Manila, Office of Civil Defense Administrator Benito Ramos said.
In Zamboanga Sibugay, also in the south, about 10,800 villagers have fled to safety from three towns, including in coastal Payao, where air force OV-10 bomber planes, naval gunboats and about 700 army troops and police have been trying to flush out more than 120 former Muslim rebels and bandits encamped in a hilly forest, officials said.
Zamboanga Sibugay police chief Ruben Cariaga said military aircraft staged bombing runs for a second day Tuesday in Payao. Troops assaulted the bandits after OV-10 planes dropped bombs on their lair Monday but were met by heavy machine-gun fire that killed two soldiers, he said.
Cariaga said Tuesday that the gunmen, who include members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, had been surrounded.
The gunmen, accused of kidnappings for ransom, extortion and other crimes, may be holding at least one kidnap victim, officials said.
Moro Islamic Liberation Front spokesman Von Al Haq has urged the military to stop the Payao offensive, saying Muslim rebels from his group were among those surrounded by troops but the criminals being sought by authorities were not their members and not in the area under fire.
The Payao offensive has displaced many of his group's civilian followers and was endangering the cease-fire, Al Haq said. He expressed optimism the peace talks would survive the latest test.
"We've consistently said that the most civilized way to end the rebellion is through negotiations and not by the law of the gun," Al Haq told The Associated Press by telephone.
Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe, whose country has been backing the peace talks for years, said he hoped the cease-fire would be respected and that both sides would continue efforts to foster peace talks.
"The recent firefights are a source of serious concern for me because it is jeopardizing the peace process," Urabe said.
News Update 51 mine applications rejected in Central Mindanao
KORONADAL CITY -- Fifty-one mining applications have been rejected in Central Mindanao in line with the government’s “use it or lose it” policy to revive the mining industry, officials said.
Constancio Paye Jr., Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) regional director, said there was a total of 69 mining applications that were reviewed across the region in line with the policy that aims to give serious investors the chance to utilize prospective mineralized zones.
While the regional MGB office rejected 51 applications, it endorsed to the main office 18 others for possible approval.
"We denied their applications for failure to submit the necessary requirements, mainly the FPIC [Free and Prior Informed Consent] from the tribal communities despite repeated reminders," Paye said.
An FPIC is a document where indigenous peoples give their consent for companies to operate in their ancestral lands.
Paye noted the disqualified mining companies are mostly based in Metro Manila and without any foreign backing.
Based on the regional MGB records, these companies have land applications ranging from 637 to 16,535 hectares in the different parts of Central Mindanao, a region covering the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani.
Hernani Abdon, MGB regional licensing and records division chief, said the purged mining companies have pending applications since 2008 and earlier.
Environment Secretary Ramon Paje earlier directed the field offices to conduct a crackdown to cleanse non-moving mining applications as part of the government’s thrust to reform the mining sector.
MGB records earlier showed that there were at least 2,180 pending mining applications filed in various MGB regional offices.
Soccsksargen hosts the largest known undeveloped copper gold resources in Southeast Asia, a project pursued by Sagittarius Mines. Inc, which is controlled by Xstrata Copper, the world’s fourth largest copper producer.
Discovered in 1992, the Tampakan copper-gold deposit is 2.4-billion ton-mineral resource when measured at a 0.3 percent copper cut-off grade. It is estimated to contain 13.9 million tons of copper and 16.2 million ounces of gold, with potential for growth.
However, an open pit mining ban imposed by the Provincial Government of South Cotabato was seen as a barrier to the Tampakan project.
Investments for the commercial development of the Tampakan project were earlier pegged at $5.9 billion, including the provision of $900 million for a power station.
It is potentially the largest single foreign direct investment in the Philippines should the company proceed to commercial phase.
Constancio Paye Jr., Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) regional director, said there was a total of 69 mining applications that were reviewed across the region in line with the policy that aims to give serious investors the chance to utilize prospective mineralized zones.
While the regional MGB office rejected 51 applications, it endorsed to the main office 18 others for possible approval.
"We denied their applications for failure to submit the necessary requirements, mainly the FPIC [Free and Prior Informed Consent] from the tribal communities despite repeated reminders," Paye said.
An FPIC is a document where indigenous peoples give their consent for companies to operate in their ancestral lands.
Paye noted the disqualified mining companies are mostly based in Metro Manila and without any foreign backing.
Based on the regional MGB records, these companies have land applications ranging from 637 to 16,535 hectares in the different parts of Central Mindanao, a region covering the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani.
Hernani Abdon, MGB regional licensing and records division chief, said the purged mining companies have pending applications since 2008 and earlier.
Environment Secretary Ramon Paje earlier directed the field offices to conduct a crackdown to cleanse non-moving mining applications as part of the government’s thrust to reform the mining sector.
MGB records earlier showed that there were at least 2,180 pending mining applications filed in various MGB regional offices.
Soccsksargen hosts the largest known undeveloped copper gold resources in Southeast Asia, a project pursued by Sagittarius Mines. Inc, which is controlled by Xstrata Copper, the world’s fourth largest copper producer.
Discovered in 1992, the Tampakan copper-gold deposit is 2.4-billion ton-mineral resource when measured at a 0.3 percent copper cut-off grade. It is estimated to contain 13.9 million tons of copper and 16.2 million ounces of gold, with potential for growth.
However, an open pit mining ban imposed by the Provincial Government of South Cotabato was seen as a barrier to the Tampakan project.
Investments for the commercial development of the Tampakan project were earlier pegged at $5.9 billion, including the provision of $900 million for a power station.
It is potentially the largest single foreign direct investment in the Philippines should the company proceed to commercial phase.
News Update City to vie in world awards in South Korea
ILOILO City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog will lead a delegation to Seoul, South Korea to vie in the prestigious International Awards for Liveable Communities (Livcom Awards) set on October 27 to 31, 2011.
Iloilo City will participate in three categories - Whole City Category, Projects Category, and Bursary Awards Category - that will highlight the city’s best practices on an international stage and influence accepted international best practices.
Mabilog said the city will also vie in the Whole City Category participated by 16 cities in Category E with population over 400,000.
Two city projects - the Dinagyang Festival and the Iloilo River Development Initiatives through Integrated Sustainable Management - will vie in the Projects Category that will be participated by 58 projects all over the world.
The city will also vie with six projects in the Bursary Awards Category participated by 15 cities worldwide.
The projects include Livelihood Enhancement Project; Disaster Risk Reduction Initiatives; Pilot Integrated Coastal Environment Sanitation Project; Tuberculosis Social Mobilization; Composting: Alternative Livelihood for Wastepickers; and Bamboo Reforestation in the Maasin watershed.
Department heads Benito Jimena of the City Tourism Office, Noel Hechanova of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office, Jose Roni Penalosa and Claire Villanueva of the City Planning and Development Office, will be with Mabilog in the said event.
The Iloilo delegation will observe the other city presentations that contain examples of international best practices applied to challenges similar to those facing Iloilo City.
The delegation will also meet participants from other countries.
Civic pride will be enhanced by being with “the leading communities in the world”, Mabilog said. (Lydia C. Pendon)
Iloilo City will participate in three categories - Whole City Category, Projects Category, and Bursary Awards Category - that will highlight the city’s best practices on an international stage and influence accepted international best practices.
Mabilog said the city will also vie in the Whole City Category participated by 16 cities in Category E with population over 400,000.
Two city projects - the Dinagyang Festival and the Iloilo River Development Initiatives through Integrated Sustainable Management - will vie in the Projects Category that will be participated by 58 projects all over the world.
The city will also vie with six projects in the Bursary Awards Category participated by 15 cities worldwide.
The projects include Livelihood Enhancement Project; Disaster Risk Reduction Initiatives; Pilot Integrated Coastal Environment Sanitation Project; Tuberculosis Social Mobilization; Composting: Alternative Livelihood for Wastepickers; and Bamboo Reforestation in the Maasin watershed.
Department heads Benito Jimena of the City Tourism Office, Noel Hechanova of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office, Jose Roni Penalosa and Claire Villanueva of the City Planning and Development Office, will be with Mabilog in the said event.
The Iloilo delegation will observe the other city presentations that contain examples of international best practices applied to challenges similar to those facing Iloilo City.
The delegation will also meet participants from other countries.
Civic pride will be enhanced by being with “the leading communities in the world”, Mabilog said. (Lydia C. Pendon)
News Update Supreme Court upholds graft conviction of Candao
MANILA, Philippines - The Supreme Court (SC) has upheld the conviction of Zacaria Candao, the first governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), for several counts of malversation of public funds amounting to P21 million.
In a decision promulgated last Oct. 19, the SC first division affirmed with modification the guilty verdict handed down by the Sandiganbayan in October 2008 on Candao, his regional executive secretary and brother Abas Candao, and former ARMM disbursing officer II Israel Haron.
The SC said the anti-graft court was correct in finding all three former officials guilty beyond reasonable doubt for nine counts of malversation of public funds under Article 217 (4) of the Revised Penal Code.
It upheld the fine ranging from P400,000 to P500,000 for each count.
The SC, however, lowered the sentence imposed by the Sandiganbayan on Candao and the two others to 10 to 17 years for each count – or a maximum of 153 years for all counts – and perpetual disqualification to hold public office.
The SC also ordered the appellants “to pay, jointly and severally, the Republic of the Philippines through the ARMM-Regional Treasurer, the total amount of P21,045,570.64 malversed funds as finally determined by the COA.”
The decision was penned by Associate Justice Martin Villarama with Chief Justice Renato Corona and Associate Justices Lucas Bersamin, Mariano del Castillo and Maria Lourdes Sereno all concurring.
The case stemmed from a Commission on Audit (COA) report which found that disbursements made in the autonomous region from December 1992 to March 1993 amounting to P21,045,570.64 were unlawfully withdrawn from the regional government’s accounts through the issuance of Philippine National Bank checks.
After the trial, the Sandiganbayan ruled that Candao and the two others had conspired in the scheme and junked their claim that the checks were covered by existing disbursement vouchers belatedly submitted to the COA central office.
In its ruling, the SC modified the sentence meted on Candao and the other accused and instead ordered them to suffer an indeterminate prison term of 10 years and one day of prision mayor maximum as minimum, to 17 years and four months of reclusion temporal medium, as maximum.
In revising the sentence, the SC applied the Indeterminate Sentence Law which provides that the minimum penalty – one degree lower from the maximum imposable penalty – shall be within the range of prision mayor maximum to reclusion temporal medium or 10 years and one day to 17 years and four months.
“Considering that neither aggravating nor mitigating circumstance attended the crime charged, the maximum imposable penalty shall be within the range of the medium period of reclusion temporal maximum to reclusion perpetua, or 18 years, eight months and one day to 20 years.
“The penalty imposed by the Sandiganbayan on petitioners needs therefore to be modified insofar as the maximum penalty is concerned and is hereby reduced to 17 years and four months of reclusion temporal medium, for each count,” the SC said. - By Edu Punay
In a decision promulgated last Oct. 19, the SC first division affirmed with modification the guilty verdict handed down by the Sandiganbayan in October 2008 on Candao, his regional executive secretary and brother Abas Candao, and former ARMM disbursing officer II Israel Haron.
The SC said the anti-graft court was correct in finding all three former officials guilty beyond reasonable doubt for nine counts of malversation of public funds under Article 217 (4) of the Revised Penal Code.
It upheld the fine ranging from P400,000 to P500,000 for each count.
The SC, however, lowered the sentence imposed by the Sandiganbayan on Candao and the two others to 10 to 17 years for each count – or a maximum of 153 years for all counts – and perpetual disqualification to hold public office.
The SC also ordered the appellants “to pay, jointly and severally, the Republic of the Philippines through the ARMM-Regional Treasurer, the total amount of P21,045,570.64 malversed funds as finally determined by the COA.”
The decision was penned by Associate Justice Martin Villarama with Chief Justice Renato Corona and Associate Justices Lucas Bersamin, Mariano del Castillo and Maria Lourdes Sereno all concurring.
The case stemmed from a Commission on Audit (COA) report which found that disbursements made in the autonomous region from December 1992 to March 1993 amounting to P21,045,570.64 were unlawfully withdrawn from the regional government’s accounts through the issuance of Philippine National Bank checks.
After the trial, the Sandiganbayan ruled that Candao and the two others had conspired in the scheme and junked their claim that the checks were covered by existing disbursement vouchers belatedly submitted to the COA central office.
In its ruling, the SC modified the sentence meted on Candao and the other accused and instead ordered them to suffer an indeterminate prison term of 10 years and one day of prision mayor maximum as minimum, to 17 years and four months of reclusion temporal medium, as maximum.
In revising the sentence, the SC applied the Indeterminate Sentence Law which provides that the minimum penalty – one degree lower from the maximum imposable penalty – shall be within the range of prision mayor maximum to reclusion temporal medium or 10 years and one day to 17 years and four months.
“Considering that neither aggravating nor mitigating circumstance attended the crime charged, the maximum imposable penalty shall be within the range of the medium period of reclusion temporal maximum to reclusion perpetua, or 18 years, eight months and one day to 20 years.
“The penalty imposed by the Sandiganbayan on petitioners needs therefore to be modified insofar as the maximum penalty is concerned and is hereby reduced to 17 years and four months of reclusion temporal medium, for each count,” the SC said. - By Edu Punay
News Update Palace says P-Noy gave P5 million to MILF
MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang confirmed yesterday that President Aquino had authorized the release of a P5-million “donation” to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) during his meeting with the group’s leader in Japan last month.
The rebel group was asked to liquidate the amount.
Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda, who earlier in the day denied demanding an explanation from MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ibrahim on how the money was spent, revealed that the P5 million was a “commitment” of the previous Arroyo administration to which Secretary Ging Deles had also served as adviser for the peace process.
“This is an institution-building capacity measure, which we found worth pursuing,” Lacierda told radio station dzBB.
The spokesman said the money was for the establishment of a Bangsamoro Management and Leadership Institute (BMLI), where the Muslim rebel group plans to train future leaders.
Lacierda backtracked later when interviewed by radio station dzMM and said that the government wanted an accounting of the money.
“The government, through (chief government negotiator) Marvic Leonen, is asking for accountability. We will be expecting some report on the outcome of the P5 million, where it went,” he said.
Lacierda said the President had described as “malicious” the text messages going around that the government released a total of P5 billion – not P5 million as they stated – to the Muslim rebel group.
He lamented that such text messages are aimed at agitating the soldiers on the ground.
“The President believes that those who protect the state, those who defend the state, must be given the advance and the benefits that are due to them,” he said, brushing aside criticisms the P5 million could have helped buy soldiers’ ammunition and feed the poor.
Leonen said he handed the P5-million check to Murad during their formal exploratory talks in Kuala Lumpur on Aug. 22-23, and this was even announced during the press conference.
He said the establishment of BLMI was discussed during negotiations at the 10th Formal Exploratory Talks in February 2006.
It was finalized and formally agreed upon during the 14th formal exploratory talks held on Nov. 14-15, 2007, with funding commitment from the Philippine government to jumpstart the institute’s operations.
It was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, enabling it to receive assistance from donor institutions such as the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
JICA gave funds for the construction of the building that will house the institute. In 2000, Asia Foundation provided support for a series of workshops to draw up the vision and organizational structure of the BLMI.
Leonen said President Aquino approved the appropriation for the BLMI during the consultation with the panel early this year.
“During his one-on-one meeting with MILF chair Murad in Tokyo last Aug. 5, the President again expressed his support to the BLMI. He then instructed the peace panel to hand the check to the Moro group,” he said.
Leonen said the government will remain steadfast in finding a peaceful solution to the armed conflict.
“We will not let false reports undermine the peace process. I urge the public to stay heedful of what is happening and analytical of the information that they receive,” he said.
MILF: We’re using the money
In a separate radio interview with dzRH, MILF political affairs chief Ghadzali Jaafar confirmed that they received money in Japan but this remains “intact” in a bank where they “deposited” the full amount.
Jaafar also confirmed that the money was for the construction of a building for the BMLI in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, which is now being implemented.
Jun Mantawil, chief secretariat of the MILF’s peace panel, said the P5-million check from Leonen was a stalled commitment by the previous administration and was fulfilled by the Aquino government.
Mantawil said they are amazed at stories circulating that the MILF received P5 billion from President Aquino when they met in Japan.
“Apparently that’s a very malicious disinformation campaign,” he said.
Mantawil and Jaafar both refuted insinuations that their central committee could have spent the P5 million for the firearms and ammunition that their members used in recent encounters with government forces in Basilan, Zamboanga peninsula and Lanao del Norte.
“This malicious disinformation campaign is being done by those who want to sabotage the ongoing (Mindanao) peace process and the negotiations between the government and the MILF,” Mantawil said.
Civilians all accounted for
Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) deployed truckloads of relief goods for civilians who evacuated in several areas in Zamboanga Sibugay due to the ongoing military operations against the MILF rogue rebels.
Elizabeth Dy, chief operation officer of the Zamboanga DSWD regional office, said the relief assistance will also be deployed for the rest of the evacuees in four other towns adjacent to Payao where the military operation has been ongoing against wanted rebel leader Waning Abdusalam.
The towns affected are Alicia, in the mainland; Talusan, Mabuhay and Olutanga in Olutanga Island off Zamboanga Sibugay.
DSWD reported that it has already recorded close to 20,000 civilians who evacuated – 11,593 evacuees in Zamboanga Sibugay areas and 7,888 in Basilan province.
Based on DSWD reports, at least 21 barangays were affected in at least the five most affected towns in Zamboanga Sibugay while nine villages, all in Al-Barka town, were affected by the hostilities.
The evacuees are sheltered in evacuation centers like schools, churches and day care centers in the five affected towns of the province, while those affected in Al-Barka were housed in the evacuation center in nearby Tipo-Tipo town in Basilan.
Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Rommel Jalosjos said the civilians affected by the air strikes in the province have all been accounted for and taken care of by the local government.
Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe expressed serious concern over the armed clashes in Mindanao and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
“The recent firefights are a source of serious concern for me because it is jeopardizing the peace process,” Urabe said.
Japan is a member of the International Monitoring Team in Mindanao and has been supporting the peace talks for over a decade.
“It is my sincere wish that all parties respect the ceasefire and call upon the government of the Philippines and the MILF to continue their efforts to advance the peace talks for the peace and prosperity of the whole community,” he said. – John Unson, Rodel Clapano, Cecille Suerte Felipe, Helen Flores, Pia Lee-Brago - By Delon Porcalla
The rebel group was asked to liquidate the amount.
Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda, who earlier in the day denied demanding an explanation from MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ibrahim on how the money was spent, revealed that the P5 million was a “commitment” of the previous Arroyo administration to which Secretary Ging Deles had also served as adviser for the peace process.
“This is an institution-building capacity measure, which we found worth pursuing,” Lacierda told radio station dzBB.
The spokesman said the money was for the establishment of a Bangsamoro Management and Leadership Institute (BMLI), where the Muslim rebel group plans to train future leaders.
Lacierda backtracked later when interviewed by radio station dzMM and said that the government wanted an accounting of the money.
“The government, through (chief government negotiator) Marvic Leonen, is asking for accountability. We will be expecting some report on the outcome of the P5 million, where it went,” he said.
Lacierda said the President had described as “malicious” the text messages going around that the government released a total of P5 billion – not P5 million as they stated – to the Muslim rebel group.
He lamented that such text messages are aimed at agitating the soldiers on the ground.
“The President believes that those who protect the state, those who defend the state, must be given the advance and the benefits that are due to them,” he said, brushing aside criticisms the P5 million could have helped buy soldiers’ ammunition and feed the poor.
Leonen said he handed the P5-million check to Murad during their formal exploratory talks in Kuala Lumpur on Aug. 22-23, and this was even announced during the press conference.
He said the establishment of BLMI was discussed during negotiations at the 10th Formal Exploratory Talks in February 2006.
It was finalized and formally agreed upon during the 14th formal exploratory talks held on Nov. 14-15, 2007, with funding commitment from the Philippine government to jumpstart the institute’s operations.
It was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, enabling it to receive assistance from donor institutions such as the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
JICA gave funds for the construction of the building that will house the institute. In 2000, Asia Foundation provided support for a series of workshops to draw up the vision and organizational structure of the BLMI.
Leonen said President Aquino approved the appropriation for the BLMI during the consultation with the panel early this year.
“During his one-on-one meeting with MILF chair Murad in Tokyo last Aug. 5, the President again expressed his support to the BLMI. He then instructed the peace panel to hand the check to the Moro group,” he said.
Leonen said the government will remain steadfast in finding a peaceful solution to the armed conflict.
“We will not let false reports undermine the peace process. I urge the public to stay heedful of what is happening and analytical of the information that they receive,” he said.
MILF: We’re using the money
In a separate radio interview with dzRH, MILF political affairs chief Ghadzali Jaafar confirmed that they received money in Japan but this remains “intact” in a bank where they “deposited” the full amount.
Jaafar also confirmed that the money was for the construction of a building for the BMLI in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, which is now being implemented.
Jun Mantawil, chief secretariat of the MILF’s peace panel, said the P5-million check from Leonen was a stalled commitment by the previous administration and was fulfilled by the Aquino government.
Mantawil said they are amazed at stories circulating that the MILF received P5 billion from President Aquino when they met in Japan.
“Apparently that’s a very malicious disinformation campaign,” he said.
Mantawil and Jaafar both refuted insinuations that their central committee could have spent the P5 million for the firearms and ammunition that their members used in recent encounters with government forces in Basilan, Zamboanga peninsula and Lanao del Norte.
“This malicious disinformation campaign is being done by those who want to sabotage the ongoing (Mindanao) peace process and the negotiations between the government and the MILF,” Mantawil said.
Civilians all accounted for
Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) deployed truckloads of relief goods for civilians who evacuated in several areas in Zamboanga Sibugay due to the ongoing military operations against the MILF rogue rebels.
Elizabeth Dy, chief operation officer of the Zamboanga DSWD regional office, said the relief assistance will also be deployed for the rest of the evacuees in four other towns adjacent to Payao where the military operation has been ongoing against wanted rebel leader Waning Abdusalam.
The towns affected are Alicia, in the mainland; Talusan, Mabuhay and Olutanga in Olutanga Island off Zamboanga Sibugay.
DSWD reported that it has already recorded close to 20,000 civilians who evacuated – 11,593 evacuees in Zamboanga Sibugay areas and 7,888 in Basilan province.
Based on DSWD reports, at least 21 barangays were affected in at least the five most affected towns in Zamboanga Sibugay while nine villages, all in Al-Barka town, were affected by the hostilities.
The evacuees are sheltered in evacuation centers like schools, churches and day care centers in the five affected towns of the province, while those affected in Al-Barka were housed in the evacuation center in nearby Tipo-Tipo town in Basilan.
Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Rommel Jalosjos said the civilians affected by the air strikes in the province have all been accounted for and taken care of by the local government.
Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe expressed serious concern over the armed clashes in Mindanao and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
“The recent firefights are a source of serious concern for me because it is jeopardizing the peace process,” Urabe said.
Japan is a member of the International Monitoring Team in Mindanao and has been supporting the peace talks for over a decade.
“It is my sincere wish that all parties respect the ceasefire and call upon the government of the Philippines and the MILF to continue their efforts to advance the peace talks for the peace and prosperity of the whole community,” he said. – John Unson, Rodel Clapano, Cecille Suerte Felipe, Helen Flores, Pia Lee-Brago - By Delon Porcalla
Kopi Talk Treasures We Take for Granted
MANILA, Philippines -- The latest heritage challenge is at Bauan, Batangas. With expanding bureaucracy, town authorities intend to demolish the municipio and build something larger. Heritage people, however, are hoping that plans can be adjusted to retain important parts of the 1930s building believed to have been designed by Juan Arellano.
The low, wide building's front is enriched with thin closely-placed columns, low reliefs of what look like agricultural allegories and finials similar to those of Manila's Metropolitan Theater. The later massive canopy over the main door spoils the otherwise elegant façade.
Originating in 1920s France, art deco is characterized by geometrical and symmetrical lines. It became all the rage and everywhere, buildings, interiors, furniture, jewelry, clothes, magazine covers, were designed in the style. Rockefeller Center and the Chrysler Building in New York; homes and commercial buildings in Miami Beach, Florida; much of Napier, New Zealand (rebuilt post-earthquake); buildings in Bandung, Indonesia are all art deco.
We also built in art deco and despite war, neglect and renovation, examples of our version are still with us, more or less. The Metropolitan Theater on Liwasang Bonifacio, the greatest of them all, was ruined by World War II, restored by then First Lady Imelda Romualdez-Marcos, and today is again partly a ruin. Jai-Alai Building is gone. Rizal Memorial Stadium is losing its charm with modernization and new construction.
Some buildings in the old financial district, along Taft Avenue and elsewhere in Ermita, Malate and Paco survive-barely. There's one on Pedro Gil still crowned with a graceful frieze. Here and there are endangered art deco fences. One on Pasong Tamô near Buendia guards, maybe just for a few more weeks, a condo on the way up. Badly patched are the Camp Crame fence and another near the College of St. Benilde.
There is hope. Far Eastern University is beautifully cared for, thanks to its Chairperson Lourdes Montinola. The Paternos built the multi-story Orchid Garden Hotel on P. Ocampo Street with their old mansion now lobby and dining room. The Zobels adapted Nielsen Airport Terminal to house the Filipinas Heritage Library. Ermita's Angela Apartments has been sensitively upgraded.
Iloilo City has wakened up to its heritage. RCBC's Calle Real building is restored and work is beginning on the Villanueva Building across the street. Citizens led by Congressman Jerry Treñas and Natasha's Vicki Jardiolin Villa are moving to make Iloilo again "Queen City of the South." Architect Dominic Galicia is bringing together property owners and call centers to return life to the mostly empty pre-war buildings on Escolta and Muelle de la Industria.
The National Cultural Heritage Act protects heritage buildings, but as the Bauan case shows, much remains to be done. In the same way that people learn art and music appreciation, the public-including national and local officials-needs to distinguish between good and bad architecture. Architects, too, have much to learn in the adaptive reuse of old structures, in the use of historical and cultural antecedents and in harmonizing new construction with their surroundings.
Comments are cordially invited, addressed to walalang@mb.com.ph.
The low, wide building's front is enriched with thin closely-placed columns, low reliefs of what look like agricultural allegories and finials similar to those of Manila's Metropolitan Theater. The later massive canopy over the main door spoils the otherwise elegant façade.
Originating in 1920s France, art deco is characterized by geometrical and symmetrical lines. It became all the rage and everywhere, buildings, interiors, furniture, jewelry, clothes, magazine covers, were designed in the style. Rockefeller Center and the Chrysler Building in New York; homes and commercial buildings in Miami Beach, Florida; much of Napier, New Zealand (rebuilt post-earthquake); buildings in Bandung, Indonesia are all art deco.
We also built in art deco and despite war, neglect and renovation, examples of our version are still with us, more or less. The Metropolitan Theater on Liwasang Bonifacio, the greatest of them all, was ruined by World War II, restored by then First Lady Imelda Romualdez-Marcos, and today is again partly a ruin. Jai-Alai Building is gone. Rizal Memorial Stadium is losing its charm with modernization and new construction.
Some buildings in the old financial district, along Taft Avenue and elsewhere in Ermita, Malate and Paco survive-barely. There's one on Pedro Gil still crowned with a graceful frieze. Here and there are endangered art deco fences. One on Pasong Tamô near Buendia guards, maybe just for a few more weeks, a condo on the way up. Badly patched are the Camp Crame fence and another near the College of St. Benilde.
There is hope. Far Eastern University is beautifully cared for, thanks to its Chairperson Lourdes Montinola. The Paternos built the multi-story Orchid Garden Hotel on P. Ocampo Street with their old mansion now lobby and dining room. The Zobels adapted Nielsen Airport Terminal to house the Filipinas Heritage Library. Ermita's Angela Apartments has been sensitively upgraded.
Iloilo City has wakened up to its heritage. RCBC's Calle Real building is restored and work is beginning on the Villanueva Building across the street. Citizens led by Congressman Jerry Treñas and Natasha's Vicki Jardiolin Villa are moving to make Iloilo again "Queen City of the South." Architect Dominic Galicia is bringing together property owners and call centers to return life to the mostly empty pre-war buildings on Escolta and Muelle de la Industria.
The National Cultural Heritage Act protects heritage buildings, but as the Bauan case shows, much remains to be done. In the same way that people learn art and music appreciation, the public-including national and local officials-needs to distinguish between good and bad architecture. Architects, too, have much to learn in the adaptive reuse of old structures, in the use of historical and cultural antecedents and in harmonizing new construction with their surroundings.
Comments are cordially invited, addressed to walalang@mb.com.ph.
Kopi Talk Reinventing Olazo: The Bliss of the Untitled
MANILA, Philippines -- The colorful splatter on the floor, massive stacks of canvases on the tables, and jars of brightly colored paints are the most noticeable elements in the studio of one of the country's master of visual arts, Romulo Olazo.
His strong, geometric shapes, and 'gossamer' like planes against lush greens, blues, purples, oranges and strong powerful reds seem to be conversing with each other across the narrow room, while the artist silently sits at a table, enjoying his merienda.
At 77, the deeply accomplished yet immensely humble Olazo continues to lose himself in his abstracts and excite the art scene as he finally plunges into a playfully vivid palette that defies his more contemplative and mostly monochromatic aesthetic.
Olazo's Diaphanous and Permutation series are among the artist's well known works feted both locally and abroad. This time however, Olazo reinvents himself by tinkering with the former's transparency with the latter's overlapping shapes, incorporating shocking hues into monumental canvases, and then titles his paintings as simply, 'Untitled'.
By naming the paintings as such, Olazo invites the viewer to participate in the interpretation of his gracefully abstracted paintings without spoon feeding them with labels and titles. 'Untitled' is also Olazo's first solo exhibit after his highly-successful 40-year retrospective, establishing the relentless continuum of his prolific creative journey.
Forty years into his career, Olazo modestly admits that he's done and achieved almost everything that he aspired for since leaving the advertising industry to become a full-time artist. His passion for art, however, continues to permeate in his veins, willing him to continue experimenting and discovering new colors, textures and shapes.
"Kailangan laging may bago. As time goes by, I discover something new. For this exhibit, it's color. Nagustuhan ko ang mga kulay," he warmly tells Manila Bulletin. When asked what other tricks he has up his sleeve, he candidly answers, "I don't know. We'll see."
According to Olazo's wife, Pat Olazo, 'Untitled' is a series of paintings Olazo started in 1983. He continued working on it at periodic moments throughout his career, but it's only now that he completed enough paintings for exhibition.
"If you look closely into the paintings, Ola's technique in 'Untitled' takes on combining both transparent and opaque forms. After all these years, no one has ever discovered how he does his colors and transparencies," Pat says.
Indeed, for this exhibit, Olazo's masterful command of creativity produced another series that's energetic in its opalescence, and evokes a beautiful tension in sight of the various paint applications of luminosity.
When asked if she is the only other person who knows how his husband creates his signature transparent layers, Pat answers with a laugh, "I grew up in the province and I'm a business administration graduate, I knew nothing about art when I met him. But I've seen through my husband's artistic career and exposure to his works taught me how to appreciate art."
Olazo, on the other hand, shares that his lovely and very supportive wife remains to be his muse. The couple met and worked together in the same advertising firm -wherein after 14 years of climbing the corporate ladder, Olazo resigned as executive art director to focus on his painting. "Masaya sa advertising pero mas malaya sa painting," he enthuses.
A graduate of Fine Arts from the University of Santo Tomas, Olazo says he has no particular creative process or rituals before working on a piece. "Basta dumadating lang," he quips. And in spite of having a heart bypass back in 2003 and walking now with the help of a stick, Olazo still manages to exhibit large works and paints in his lofty studio five to seven hours a day.
Known for his adeptness in many of the known artist's techniques and mediums, Olazo was foremost known as a printmaker in 1969; in 1972, he joined the Saturday Group of Artists, at that time steered by National Artist H.R. Ocampo, and then by National Artist Cesar Legaspi; and in 1979, his works gained an honorable mention in the 11th International Biennial Exhibition of Prints in Tokyo.
Rumored to be named National Artist for Visual Arts himself, Olazo let out an astonished gasp followed by an unassuming smile when asked about his thoughts on receiving the prestigious title. As if the thought of being among his peers is an improbability.
When in fact, the Diaphanous series, considered as Olazo's definitive expression, holds a viable position in the line and legacy of modern abstract painting in Philippine Contemporary Art. And his works and exhibits have received several accolades from the global art scene.
Olazo has successfully held 35 individual shows here and abroad and participated in various major international shows, including painting exhibits in Singapore, Guam, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. His paintings are also well represented in internationally-renowned auction houses, like Christie's in Hong Kong.
'Untitled' opened last October 10, 2011 and will run until October 31, 2011. For further inquiries call Paseo Gallery 4th Floor, Building A, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City Tel. No. 706-5514, 3rd Floor Art Space, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Makati City Tel. No. 728-0168, Mobile No. 0917-526-8082 / 0922-887-2736 or visit www.paseogallery.net
His strong, geometric shapes, and 'gossamer' like planes against lush greens, blues, purples, oranges and strong powerful reds seem to be conversing with each other across the narrow room, while the artist silently sits at a table, enjoying his merienda.
At 77, the deeply accomplished yet immensely humble Olazo continues to lose himself in his abstracts and excite the art scene as he finally plunges into a playfully vivid palette that defies his more contemplative and mostly monochromatic aesthetic.
Olazo's Diaphanous and Permutation series are among the artist's well known works feted both locally and abroad. This time however, Olazo reinvents himself by tinkering with the former's transparency with the latter's overlapping shapes, incorporating shocking hues into monumental canvases, and then titles his paintings as simply, 'Untitled'.
By naming the paintings as such, Olazo invites the viewer to participate in the interpretation of his gracefully abstracted paintings without spoon feeding them with labels and titles. 'Untitled' is also Olazo's first solo exhibit after his highly-successful 40-year retrospective, establishing the relentless continuum of his prolific creative journey.
Forty years into his career, Olazo modestly admits that he's done and achieved almost everything that he aspired for since leaving the advertising industry to become a full-time artist. His passion for art, however, continues to permeate in his veins, willing him to continue experimenting and discovering new colors, textures and shapes.
"Kailangan laging may bago. As time goes by, I discover something new. For this exhibit, it's color. Nagustuhan ko ang mga kulay," he warmly tells Manila Bulletin. When asked what other tricks he has up his sleeve, he candidly answers, "I don't know. We'll see."
According to Olazo's wife, Pat Olazo, 'Untitled' is a series of paintings Olazo started in 1983. He continued working on it at periodic moments throughout his career, but it's only now that he completed enough paintings for exhibition.
"If you look closely into the paintings, Ola's technique in 'Untitled' takes on combining both transparent and opaque forms. After all these years, no one has ever discovered how he does his colors and transparencies," Pat says.
Indeed, for this exhibit, Olazo's masterful command of creativity produced another series that's energetic in its opalescence, and evokes a beautiful tension in sight of the various paint applications of luminosity.
When asked if she is the only other person who knows how his husband creates his signature transparent layers, Pat answers with a laugh, "I grew up in the province and I'm a business administration graduate, I knew nothing about art when I met him. But I've seen through my husband's artistic career and exposure to his works taught me how to appreciate art."
Olazo, on the other hand, shares that his lovely and very supportive wife remains to be his muse. The couple met and worked together in the same advertising firm -wherein after 14 years of climbing the corporate ladder, Olazo resigned as executive art director to focus on his painting. "Masaya sa advertising pero mas malaya sa painting," he enthuses.
A graduate of Fine Arts from the University of Santo Tomas, Olazo says he has no particular creative process or rituals before working on a piece. "Basta dumadating lang," he quips. And in spite of having a heart bypass back in 2003 and walking now with the help of a stick, Olazo still manages to exhibit large works and paints in his lofty studio five to seven hours a day.
Known for his adeptness in many of the known artist's techniques and mediums, Olazo was foremost known as a printmaker in 1969; in 1972, he joined the Saturday Group of Artists, at that time steered by National Artist H.R. Ocampo, and then by National Artist Cesar Legaspi; and in 1979, his works gained an honorable mention in the 11th International Biennial Exhibition of Prints in Tokyo.
Rumored to be named National Artist for Visual Arts himself, Olazo let out an astonished gasp followed by an unassuming smile when asked about his thoughts on receiving the prestigious title. As if the thought of being among his peers is an improbability.
When in fact, the Diaphanous series, considered as Olazo's definitive expression, holds a viable position in the line and legacy of modern abstract painting in Philippine Contemporary Art. And his works and exhibits have received several accolades from the global art scene.
Olazo has successfully held 35 individual shows here and abroad and participated in various major international shows, including painting exhibits in Singapore, Guam, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. His paintings are also well represented in internationally-renowned auction houses, like Christie's in Hong Kong.
'Untitled' opened last October 10, 2011 and will run until October 31, 2011. For further inquiries call Paseo Gallery 4th Floor, Building A, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City Tel. No. 706-5514, 3rd Floor Art Space, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Makati City Tel. No. 728-0168, Mobile No. 0917-526-8082 / 0922-887-2736 or visit www.paseogallery.net
News Update Trillanes: Destabilization plot may be possible
Amid denials by top military officials, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV on Wednesday said there may be plans to overthrow the Aquino administration due to alleged restlessness in the military.
"Yes (there may be destabilization plots). It is consistent with the information that we have gathered," Trillanes told reporters in a text message on Wednesday.
He said this a day after Malacañang dismissed rumors of a coup d' etat stemming from President Benigno Aquino III's refusal to declare an all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), whose members had killed over two dozens soldiers in recent attacks in Mindanao.
Instead of an alll-out war, Aquino on Monday said that he will pursue instead "all-out justice" to address the successive atrocities against the military.
But Trillanes, a former Navy officer, had said it is likely that the soldiers are disappointed with Aquino for not coming out with a stronger statement regarding the issue.
He noted, however, that he "seriously doubts" the alleged destabilization plot would "go beyond a coup rumor."
"Admittedly, the morale is low right now, (but) this is but normal and will probably wane soon. [The decision to allow the military] to conduct pursuit operations will help ease the soldiers' restiveness," he said.
"Let us remember that GMA (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) committed far worse crimes against the soldiers and the people but these same disgruntled officers never even considered rising up against her. So, by and large, all is well," he added.
Trillanes was among the soldiers who had called for the resignation of Arroyo during her term as president.
Meanwhile, Sen. Panfilo Lacson, in an earlier text message to reporters, had said reports of restlessness among Philippine law enforcers was not true.
"PNoy enjoys the support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police; the MILF issue is not a reason at all to cause destabilization of his leadership," said the senator, who used to head the PNP.
Last Tuesday, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office head Ricky Carandang said rumors of restlessness and demoralization in the military were just being exaggerated by some "elements."
Former Army spokesman Col. Antonio Parlade Jr. had claimed the military was demoralized following the death of 19 soldiers in the clash in Al-Barka, Basilan, early last week.
Dismayed by the military's performance that led to the deadly clash, Aquino relieved from their duties Parlade and Col. Alexander Macario, who was commander of Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) Basilan. — LBG
"Yes (there may be destabilization plots). It is consistent with the information that we have gathered," Trillanes told reporters in a text message on Wednesday.
He said this a day after Malacañang dismissed rumors of a coup d' etat stemming from President Benigno Aquino III's refusal to declare an all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), whose members had killed over two dozens soldiers in recent attacks in Mindanao.
Instead of an alll-out war, Aquino on Monday said that he will pursue instead "all-out justice" to address the successive atrocities against the military.
But Trillanes, a former Navy officer, had said it is likely that the soldiers are disappointed with Aquino for not coming out with a stronger statement regarding the issue.
He noted, however, that he "seriously doubts" the alleged destabilization plot would "go beyond a coup rumor."
"Admittedly, the morale is low right now, (but) this is but normal and will probably wane soon. [The decision to allow the military] to conduct pursuit operations will help ease the soldiers' restiveness," he said.
"Let us remember that GMA (Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) committed far worse crimes against the soldiers and the people but these same disgruntled officers never even considered rising up against her. So, by and large, all is well," he added.
Trillanes was among the soldiers who had called for the resignation of Arroyo during her term as president.
Meanwhile, Sen. Panfilo Lacson, in an earlier text message to reporters, had said reports of restlessness among Philippine law enforcers was not true.
"PNoy enjoys the support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police; the MILF issue is not a reason at all to cause destabilization of his leadership," said the senator, who used to head the PNP.
Last Tuesday, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office head Ricky Carandang said rumors of restlessness and demoralization in the military were just being exaggerated by some "elements."
Former Army spokesman Col. Antonio Parlade Jr. had claimed the military was demoralized following the death of 19 soldiers in the clash in Al-Barka, Basilan, early last week.
Dismayed by the military's performance that led to the deadly clash, Aquino relieved from their duties Parlade and Col. Alexander Macario, who was commander of Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) Basilan. — LBG
News Update Marcos hits Aquino for AFP demoralization
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News Update Vietnam backs Philippine sea peace zone plan
Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang Wednesday backed a Philippine proposal for a peace zone in the disputed South China Sea at a meeting with President Benigno Aquino.
The two Southeast Asian countries have overlapping claims over the Spratly Islands. Brunei, China, Malaysia and Taiwan also have claims, leading to rising tensions in the reputedly resource-rich waters that host key shipping lanes.
Aquino has been trying to encourage Southeast Asian neighbours to form a united front against China's sovereignty claim over all of the South China Sea.
"We also exchanged information and views on issues relating to the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) and reaffirmed the importance of the maintenance of peace, stability, maritime safety and security in the region," Aquino said.
Sang, speaking with Aquino at a joint news conference during a state visit, said his country supported Philippine calls for settling the disputes through international law and the creation of a "zone of peace" in the South China Sea.
"We again affirm the importance of the maintenance of peace, stability, security, safety and freedom of navigation in the East Sea (Vietnam's name for the area) to the region as well as to the parties concerned," Sang said.
"We also affirmed that maritime and ocean cooperation is one of the pillars of our bilateral relations," the Vietnamese ceremonial leader said.
The Philippines has accused the Chinese military of aggressive acts in the Philippine-claimed areas of the South China Sea this year, including firing on Filipino fishermen, laying buoys and harassing an oil exploration vessel.
"We agreed that a rules-based approach, adhering to international law... is essential to the pursuit of a peaceful resolution of these issues through multilateral dialogue and consultations," Aquino said.
He said he and Sang also stressed that a 2002 declaration by the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations members plus China on the conduct of the parties to the South China Sea dispute should be fully implemented.
Spratly claimants Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam, along with Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand make up the ASEAN.
The two Southeast Asian countries have overlapping claims over the Spratly Islands. Brunei, China, Malaysia and Taiwan also have claims, leading to rising tensions in the reputedly resource-rich waters that host key shipping lanes.
Aquino has been trying to encourage Southeast Asian neighbours to form a united front against China's sovereignty claim over all of the South China Sea.
"We also exchanged information and views on issues relating to the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) and reaffirmed the importance of the maintenance of peace, stability, maritime safety and security in the region," Aquino said.
Sang, speaking with Aquino at a joint news conference during a state visit, said his country supported Philippine calls for settling the disputes through international law and the creation of a "zone of peace" in the South China Sea.
"We again affirm the importance of the maintenance of peace, stability, security, safety and freedom of navigation in the East Sea (Vietnam's name for the area) to the region as well as to the parties concerned," Sang said.
"We also affirmed that maritime and ocean cooperation is one of the pillars of our bilateral relations," the Vietnamese ceremonial leader said.
The Philippines has accused the Chinese military of aggressive acts in the Philippine-claimed areas of the South China Sea this year, including firing on Filipino fishermen, laying buoys and harassing an oil exploration vessel.
"We agreed that a rules-based approach, adhering to international law... is essential to the pursuit of a peaceful resolution of these issues through multilateral dialogue and consultations," Aquino said.
He said he and Sang also stressed that a 2002 declaration by the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations members plus China on the conduct of the parties to the South China Sea dispute should be fully implemented.
Spratly claimants Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam, along with Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand make up the ASEAN.
News Update Philippine Long Distance acquires rival
Philippine Long Distance Telephone said Wednesday it had completed an $1.6 billion deal to acquire a local rival in what would likely become the largest corporate buyout in the country's history.
The dominant carrier, also known as PLDT, secured all regulatory approvals required to acquire a 51.55 percent stake in Digital Telecommunications Philippines Inc. (Digitel), the two companies said in a joint statement.
The 69.2 billion-peso ($1.6-billion) share swap would be followed by a mandatory tender offer for the remaining publicly held shares of Digitel and divestment by PLDT in a unit that owns so-called 3G telecom frequency.
"If fully taken up, the tender offer would bring the total transaction value to 74.1 billion pesos ($1.71 billion), making it the largest buyout in Philippine corporate history," the joint statement said.
The acquisition of Digitel's majority stake itself was initiated in March but completed only on Wednesday after regulators had made sure it did not create a potential monopoly.
The buyout leaves JG Summit of aviation and property tycoon John Gokongwei, the country's third-richest man, with a 12.9 percent share of PLDT.
The joint statement said the two sides had agreed to let JG Summit sell some of its PLDT stocks to fellow shareholders First Pacific Co. Ltd. of Hong Kong and Japan's NTT Docomo Inc.
After these separate transactions, JG Summit would own about 8.0 percent of PLDT, it added.
PLDT, Digitel and Globe Telecom, a joint venture between the Philippines' Ayala Group and Singapore Telecom, dominate the Philippines' fiercely competitive telecommunications sector.
Listed PLDT earlier Wednesday closed 1.04 percent higher to 2,330 pesos while JG Summit added 1.78 percent to 25.70 pesos.
Digitel rose 0.65 percent to 1.54 pesos.
The dominant carrier, also known as PLDT, secured all regulatory approvals required to acquire a 51.55 percent stake in Digital Telecommunications Philippines Inc. (Digitel), the two companies said in a joint statement.
The 69.2 billion-peso ($1.6-billion) share swap would be followed by a mandatory tender offer for the remaining publicly held shares of Digitel and divestment by PLDT in a unit that owns so-called 3G telecom frequency.
"If fully taken up, the tender offer would bring the total transaction value to 74.1 billion pesos ($1.71 billion), making it the largest buyout in Philippine corporate history," the joint statement said.
The acquisition of Digitel's majority stake itself was initiated in March but completed only on Wednesday after regulators had made sure it did not create a potential monopoly.
The buyout leaves JG Summit of aviation and property tycoon John Gokongwei, the country's third-richest man, with a 12.9 percent share of PLDT.
The joint statement said the two sides had agreed to let JG Summit sell some of its PLDT stocks to fellow shareholders First Pacific Co. Ltd. of Hong Kong and Japan's NTT Docomo Inc.
After these separate transactions, JG Summit would own about 8.0 percent of PLDT, it added.
PLDT, Digitel and Globe Telecom, a joint venture between the Philippines' Ayala Group and Singapore Telecom, dominate the Philippines' fiercely competitive telecommunications sector.
Listed PLDT earlier Wednesday closed 1.04 percent higher to 2,330 pesos while JG Summit added 1.78 percent to 25.70 pesos.
Digitel rose 0.65 percent to 1.54 pesos.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
News Update Arsonists attack Philippine church radio station
MANILA (AFP) - A Roman Catholic Church-run radio station was set on fire in the central Philippines on Wednesday in the latest attack on the press in the country, police said.
No group has claimed responsibility for the destruction of the DZVT radio station on Mindoro island, and there was no evidence communist rebels in the area were involved, regional police chief Superintendent Gregorio Olaguer said.
'No one saw the suspects and reports linking armed communist rebel groups were negative,' he told reporters.
The unknown suspects doused the premises with petrol and set it alight before dawn, Mr Olaguer said.
No group has claimed responsibility for the destruction of the DZVT radio station on Mindoro island, and there was no evidence communist rebels in the area were involved, regional police chief Superintendent Gregorio Olaguer said.
'No one saw the suspects and reports linking armed communist rebel groups were negative,' he told reporters.
The unknown suspects doused the premises with petrol and set it alight before dawn, Mr Olaguer said.
News Update Mayor urges Zamboangueños to be security-conscious
ZAMBOANGA City Mayor Celso Lobregat urged Tuesday the Zamboangueños to be security-conscious amid the violence in the nearby provinces of Basilan and Zamboanga Sibugay.
Lobregat issued the call to avert spill-over of violence since Zamboanga City is located in between the two provinces where the military is separately pursuing groups of rebels.
The mayor said the local police force and the military's Task Force Zamboanga (TFZ) have taken steps to ensure the protection of the city but everybody's assistance is needed.
"We have to be prepared. It is better to be safe than sorry," Lobregat said.
However, he urged the residents not to be panicky "though very, very alert but, at the same time, vigilant."
Text messages are circulating about the presence of suspected rebel group since the violent incident broke out in Basilan and in Zamboanga Sibugay.
"Let us be vigilant but sober, alert but calm, and active but not over reactive," he said. (Bong Garcia/Sunnex)
Lobregat issued the call to avert spill-over of violence since Zamboanga City is located in between the two provinces where the military is separately pursuing groups of rebels.
The mayor said the local police force and the military's Task Force Zamboanga (TFZ) have taken steps to ensure the protection of the city but everybody's assistance is needed.
"We have to be prepared. It is better to be safe than sorry," Lobregat said.
However, he urged the residents not to be panicky "though very, very alert but, at the same time, vigilant."
Text messages are circulating about the presence of suspected rebel group since the violent incident broke out in Basilan and in Zamboanga Sibugay.
"Let us be vigilant but sober, alert but calm, and active but not over reactive," he said. (Bong Garcia/Sunnex)
News Update Benguet bans ‘red label’ pesticides
LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Provincial Agriculturist Lolita Bentrez said they are strictly prohibiting farmers from using red level pesticides, insecticides and fungicides in their fields.
“Farmers who use these red level chemicals will be penalized,” said Bentrez.
She added the prohibition will be for the protection of the environment of the province. There will be a soil mobile clinic to be constructed next year to be the center of soil assessment.
“We will be conducting soil analysis in the farmers’ fields to check and evaluate the status of the soil if it is safe or not [to plant on],” explained Bentrez.
Meanwhile, the implementation of Organic Agriculture Act or the Republic Act 10068 will further support the prohibition of red level chemicals.
These chemicals are highly toxic, which are harmful not only to the environment but also to the health of the consumers and the farmers as well.
Vice Mayor Romeo Salda believes organic agriculture will save the children of La Trinidad. Municipal Administrator Charles Canuto also affirmed the secret of living towards old age is eating non-chemical laden foods.
“These chemicals will destroy the soil. The water sources of our municipality are now being affected by these highly toxic chemicals applied by farmers,” said Canuto.
He added the valley will sincerely implement the Organic Agriculture Act. (Rubyloida Bitog)
“Farmers who use these red level chemicals will be penalized,” said Bentrez.
She added the prohibition will be for the protection of the environment of the province. There will be a soil mobile clinic to be constructed next year to be the center of soil assessment.
“We will be conducting soil analysis in the farmers’ fields to check and evaluate the status of the soil if it is safe or not [to plant on],” explained Bentrez.
Meanwhile, the implementation of Organic Agriculture Act or the Republic Act 10068 will further support the prohibition of red level chemicals.
These chemicals are highly toxic, which are harmful not only to the environment but also to the health of the consumers and the farmers as well.
Vice Mayor Romeo Salda believes organic agriculture will save the children of La Trinidad. Municipal Administrator Charles Canuto also affirmed the secret of living towards old age is eating non-chemical laden foods.
“These chemicals will destroy the soil. The water sources of our municipality are now being affected by these highly toxic chemicals applied by farmers,” said Canuto.
He added the valley will sincerely implement the Organic Agriculture Act. (Rubyloida Bitog)
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