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P15.00Issue No. 34, Volume III • Dec. 19-22, 2011

Pesticide discouragedRICE FARMERS have been asked to stop the use of pesticides that kill natural predators of planthop-pers, one of the pests causing damage to the production of the staple, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) said on Friday. “We need to seriously rethink our current pest management strategies so we don’t just cope with current outbreaks, but prevent and manage them ef-fectively in the long run,” Bas Bouman, head of the Crop and Environmental Sciences Division at IRRI, said in a statement. The IRRI said the call to stop the use of pesticides has been issued after it has found that the misuse of insecticides is killing insects that prey on planthoppers. Growing three rice crops a year or using the same variet-ies over a large area for a long period, it also said, can result in pest outbreaks.

Zamboanga portZAMBOANGA City -- The Phil-ippine Ports Authority (PPA) is set to implement P306 million worth of projects at the local wharf next year. The projects include the construction of passenger ter-minal for foreign vessels, P16 million; 50 meters expansion of the newly constructed birthing area, P200 million; and removal of 65,000 cubic meters broken rocks, P90 million. Zamboanga Port Manager Leonilo Miole said they will be implementing three major projects next year to further enhance the agency’s service to the public in general and to the travelers in particular.

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Nestlé keen to source 75% of coffee locally

By CARMELITO FRANCISCO, Correspondent

DAVAO City -- Nestlé Philippines is looking at reversing by 2020 the cur-rent three-to-one ratio in sourcing

coffee beans that favors importation. At present, the company procures only about During the 2nd Phil-ippine Coffee Investors’ Forum held here, Edith A. de Leon, vice-president and head of corporate af-fairs of Nestlé, said that the company is partnering with local farmers to reverse the current trend. This partnership will al-low Nestlé to source about 75% of its coffee bean de-mand from the regions. Ms. De Leon said the company aims to help plant coffee on 20,000 hectares

in the next eight years. The company, she added, is now selling seedlings to farmers at cost, or P12 per unit, in order to help boost the country’s coffee output. Nestlé’s experimental and demonstration farm is lo-cated in nearby Tagum City. The Philippines has been a net importer of coffee since it can only fill half of the 64,000 metric ton annual demand. Over a third of this vol-

SEASON’S BOUNTY. Scavengers taking advantage of the abundance of the Yuletide season as they gather scrap metals along the stretch of Lapasan Highway.

PHOTO BY ROLANDO SUDARIA

P-Noy OK’s P1.816-T budget for 2012THE national budget for 2012, which was signed into law by President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday, is the earliest government ap-propriations law approved since Philippine democracy was restored in 1986. In his speech following the signing, the President said that this day should go down in history as a first in the 25 years of Philippine

democracy. “Kanina lang ay na-saksihan ninyo ang ating paglagda sa ating budget, ang pinaka-maagang pag-sasabatas sa taunang budget mula ng mabawi natin ang demokrasya nuong 1986,” the President said. “Tunay pong makasay-sayan ang araw na ito,” he added. The earliest budget en-

actments for the four other Philippine Presidents who came before him are as follows: Corazon Aquino – December 18, 1986; Fidel Ramos – January 6, 1993; Joseph Estrada – December 30, 1998; and Gloria Arroyo – January 21, 2002. P r e s i d e n t A q u i n o thanked the people who worked doubly hard to

UN includes Mindanao in $7.7B next year’s funding

THE United Nations said last week it needed $7.7 billion in aid funding for 16 countries next year, with the biggest chunk to go towards helping victims in drought-devastated Horn of Africa. Some $1.5 billion in funds are destined for So-malia, where 250,000 people are at risk of imminent death. Kenya, which is also suffering from drought-induced crop failure, poor livestock conditions and rising food prices, would need $764 million in 2012. The UN declared six regions in southern Somalia famine zones earlier this year, and although it said last month that three regions were no longer in the grip of famine, more than half of Somalia’s 10 million people remain in dire need of help.

Brit Expats set up Oro’s first wine & spirits shop

Cherie Gil cuts the ribbon at the grand launch of Wine Philippines by Forth & Tay at Great Spot Arcade, J.R. Borja Extension.

STORY

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misa-mis Oriental-– The death toll due to flooding in the city of Cagayan de Oro now rose to 252.

This was according to the of-ficial report the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) region 10 office at 5:00 a.m today.

Death toll in Cagayan de Oro flood rises to 252

Twenty three (23) persons were already identified while identities of the other 229 died are yet to be established. The bodies are now at the different funeral homes in the city.

RDRRMC said all the im-mediate kin of the reported fatalities are currently being attended by the concerned local government unit and disaster council in the city.

Office of Civil Defense (OCD)Regional Director Ana Cañeda said 22 barangays in the city were affected with flashfloods leaving many residents trapped on the rooftop and walls of their homes, power and water outrages.

While some residents took refuge on trees, others had to climb nearby storey buildings to avoid being swept away by the flood

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon -– The heavy rains and strong winds of tropical storm “Sendong” destroyed Bukidnon’s two main bridges leaving Baungon town, the province’s border with Cagayan de Oro City, totally isolated. Initial reports from Baungon Disaster Risk Reduction and Man-agement Council (DRRMC) showed six (6) persons dead, more than

Sendong’ destroys bridges in Bukidnon

40 missing, and 220 persons af-fected. “Nobody can get in and out of Baungon town because of the collapsed bridges,” Gov. Alex Calingasan said this morning. The Cabula Bridge in west Baungon connects the town to Cagayan de Oro, while the Tum-alaong Bridge in Baungon’s eastern part connects it to the neighboring towns of the province.

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur -– The heavy rains coupled with strong winds caused by ‘Sendong’ last night has brought havoc to agricultural properties in the province. Provincial Information Officer Nasser Ganda said the damage of Sendong were mostly against properties such as houses, agri-cultural land and farm animals. “But we cannot estimate the cost of damage as of this time yet,” he said. He further said that no other casualty was noted except the two persons who were report-edly missing in Kapai town this morning. Aside from Kapai, other towns

DEATH/PAGE 11

By ELAINE O. RATUNIL and RUBY LEONORA R. BALISTOY

By RUBY LEONORA R. BALISTOY

‘Sendong’ brings havoc to agri in Lanao

By APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN

warehouse at West Service Road, Marcelo Green Vil-lage, Sucat, Paranaque City.

Forth & Tay is the retail arm of a sister company, Future Trade (FTI) one of the Philippines’ leading importers and distribu-tors of alcoholic bever-ages which has leading positions in the Ready-to-Drink (RTD), Wine and Imported Beer markets and represents a range of leading Spirit brands. The company employs over 150 staff nationwide, giving its brands true national reach and coverage. Future Trade has built up a portfolio of wines that competes in nearly every major sector of the Philippines’ wine market, whether on-trade or off-trade.

“Our philosophy is sim-ple,” said Eric G. Kahn, FTI marketing director. “We work with brand owners to help Filipino residents access a range of wines that satisfy every taste and price requirement. Then, we work with wholesalers and outlet owners to edu-cate consumers about our

fabulous wine range. We sell wines from as little as P175 per bottle right the way up to as much as over P17, 500 per bottle.”

The wine shop which is located at Door 106 of the Great Spot Arcade along J.R. Borja Exten-sion is open from 12NN to 10PM Monday through Sunday and will start serv-ing drinks on the premises in two weeks.

“Buy a bottle of wine or liquor and your welcome to

and Nicole J. Managbanag. The partying lasted until well past 9PM to accom-modate late comers like Angela Montalvan-Manuel and friends.

DuVivier believes seri-ous wine-drinking among Pinoys started barely 30 years ago, when wines such

as Blue Nun became popular.He says the wine mar-

ket has been growing by double digits in the past six years—partly on ac-count of the restaurant industry, which now offers more wines at competitive prices—a trend he projects would continue.

The store is running a Christmas raff le for buyers whose one-time purchases are PhP 500 or over. Patrons can win a one night stay at Golden Sunset Camiguin Beach Club with a complimen-tary breakfast for two, Discover Scuba with Dive and Adventure Philippines in Bohol or a Christmas basket of fi ne wines and cigars. Customers can also fi ve consolation prizes of one pack of Reats Havana Petit Corona Cigars.

drink it right outside, “said Ms. Valerie Asch said. “We will also be serving cheese and cold cuts.”

After Rev. Fr. Renato Lumonsod, SSJV blessed the premises, the rest of the afternoon and evening was a feast of wine and canapés.

Ms. Asch as general manager of the new es-tablishment and Mr. Kahn

as marketing director of Future Trade presided over the wine tasting during the official launch. Among the fine wines uncorked and tasted were Two Oceans, best sellers Lindeman’s Premier Selection Shiraz Cabernet and Lindeman’s Premier Selection Semil-lon Chardonnay, Penfolds, Robert Mondavi, Hardys and the top best sellers so far: Charlotte Street Shiraz Cabernet (red) and Charlotte Street Semillon

3BusinessWeekMINDANAO

Dec. 19-22, 2011

Actress Cherie Gil, cousin of Bukidnon or-ganic farming advocate Renee Perrine, cut the cer-emonial ribbon while Fr. Renato Lumonsod, SSJV, blessed the premises.

Wine Phi l ippines, Q u a l i t y Wi n e s b y Forth&Tay is Oliver A. Hill and James DuVivier’s first shop in Mindanao. Hill represents Wine Phil-ippines, the local partner, while DuVivier is presi-dent of Forth & Tay, the leading direct merchant of fine wines and spirits in the Philippines, with a portfolio of over 300 brands.

Hill resides in Camiguin and has a stonecraft enter-prise based in Bukidnon. He previously resided in Davao where he used to play football with the lo-cal FCs but relocated to Camiguin after a visit.

A Scot, DuVivier relo-cated to the Philippines in 1987 as head of the local manufacturing and marketing company of International Distillers &

Vintners.In 1999, he put up

Forth&Tay (after the two major rivers of Scotland) a cigar bar in Makati serving malt whiskey, spirits and fine wines. The first of its kind in the country, the establishment has since been transformed into a direct-to-consumer re-tailer of fine wines and spirits in Metro Manila, with free delivery service within 24 hours in the me-tropolis from its office and

Brit Expats set up Oro’s first hon-est-to-goodness wine & spirits shopTWO British nationals have set up

what they want to be Cagayan de Oro’s first honest-to-goodness wine

and spirits shop at Door 106, Great Spot Arcade, J.R. Borja Extension in Gusa.

Chardonnay (white) which have reportedly sold so fast they’re sold out but will again be available for the New Year.

Among the exclusive wines available solely from this store in Mind-anao are Charlotte Street (PhP 311.00); Lindeman’s Premier Selection (PhP 336.00); George Duboeuf – 299.00 to 403.00 and Coralba Spumante spar-kling wine (PhP 300.00)

“Currently a lot of people are buying George Duboeuf Cuvee Rouge which is a French wine for PHP299.00,” Ms. Asch noted. “Bright red colored and purple shaded, this wine has a fruity taste reminiscent of red ber-ries. The prevailing grape variety for this wine is generally Grenache. Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault and Gamay can also be found. This light bodied wine pairs well with seafood and poultry. If you’re looking for a nice and easy wine Cuvee Rouge is a sure win.”

Besides the partners and their better halves,

Ms. Gil and Ms. Perrine, also present were a num-ber of British nationals, mostly resident expats of Cagayan de Oro and Misa-mis Oriental, Keith and Jenna Grubaugh of the Peacebuilders Commu-nity, Paula Perrine, Valerie Asch, Patricia Gabriel,

Future Trade International Marketing Director Eric G. Kahn, ladies from the Cagayan de Oro Hotels and Restaurant Association led by no less its president Anne Lim Yu and Jenny Pabayo-Boo, Connie Igna-cio, and Sun Star Cagayan de Oro’s Joey Nacalaban

Cherie Gil cuts the ribbon at the grand launch of Wine Philippines by Forth & Tay at Great Spot Arcade, J.R. Borja Extension. Also in photo are James DuvVivier, Forth & Tay President and Renee Perrine, My Personal Farmer.

4 BusinessWeekMINDANAODec. 19-22, 2011 CompaniesCompanies

AQUINO VS CORONALiberal Party president Manuel Roxas II admitted that allies

of President Aquino moved swiftly to impeach Chief Justice Renato Corona to prevent the Supreme Court (SC) from blocking it, possibly through a temporary restraining order (TRO). As this developed, Iloilo Rep. Niel Tupas Jr., a partymate of the President, also revealed that aside from Corona and Justice Mariano del Castillo, who was earlier accused of plagiarism, two more SC justices would also undergo impeachment for alleged graft and corruption. Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said that they had to support the President because they wanted him to succeed for the sake of the Filipino people.

President Aquino, speaking at the EDSA Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong where his House-allies who signed Corona’s impeachment held a political caucus, thanked and congratulated them for their efforts to strengthen democratic institutions through “checks and balances.” He noted that there was no more hope that Chief Justice Corona would change and serve the interest of the people and not that of former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who ap-pointed the Chief Justice before the end of her term in 2010. The President said that Chief Justice Corona would have the chance to answer allegations against him before the proper forum and be responsible for any wrongdoings.

ABALOS’ ARRESTThe Pasay City police took custody of former Commission

on Election (COMELEC) Chairperson Benjamin Abalos who surrendered to the Pasay City Regional Trial Court (RTC) where he is facing charges of electoral sabotage. After learning of the warrant of arrest against him, Abalos voluntarily went to the court accompanied by his son, Mandaluyong City Mayor Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr., and submitted himself to its custody. Other members of his family followed suit. Abalos’ lawyer, Brigido Dulay, fi led two urgent motions—one that he be held under house arrest and the other asking the court to fi x bail. Both petitions cited Abalos’ old age and his not being a fl ight risk. The court set a hearing of the motions on Friday.

Abalos was then driven to the Southern Police District (SPD) headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, where he was held in a small second fl oor room of the anticrime special operations task group. “It’s a simple room and its only furniture is a bed with cushion,” a court source said, adding that Abalos would be staying alone in the room.

SEN. SANTIAGO IN ICCSenator Miriam Defensor-Santiago is the newest judge of

the International Criminal Court (ICC), the fi rst Filipino and fi rst Asian from a developing country to sit in the tribunal that tries cases of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced. After waging a four-month campaign, Santiago topped the fi rst round of polling, making it to the court with 79 votes out of 104 votes cast, an indication of strong support for her from the states parties, the DFA said.

Santiago said that she would eventually resign from the Senate but that this would probably not happen in the next six months. “I will take my oath of offi ce in March together with six other new judges. They are still in the process of being voted upon. The Philippines was No. 1 in the fi rst round of voting so that is something for the Philippines. All six of us cannot assume offi ce until we are offi cially called to report for work,” she said. Santiago will serve a nine-year term.

K+12 BASIC EDUCATION PROGRAMThe Department of Education (DepEd) will implement the

K+12 basic education program in academic year 2012-2013, starting with the conversion of fi rst year high school to Grade 7. Education Secretary Armin Luistro said that a curriculum had been created for Grade 7. The K+12 basic education plan consists of kindergarten, six years of elementary education, four years of junior high school (Grade 7 to 10), and two years of senior high school.

“In 2012, we will begin using the new curriculum for Grade 1 and Grade 7 (fi rst year of junior high school),” Luistro said. “The curriculum is almost complete for these two levels and we will soon begin preparing our teachers.” He said that after the initial implementation, the department will continue to work on the “building blocks” of the program which are: Curriculum Transition Management, Financial Resources, Legal Framework. “We will also continue our consultations so everyone can understand the need for reform,” he said. DepEd will also address the defi ciencies in the public kindergarten schools established this school year.

ESTRADA VS ARROYO/ POE’s DEATH ANNIVERSARY

“She committed a crime against the people. She should be punished for it.” These strong words came from former President Joseph Estrada who accused his successor, now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, of master-minding alleged cheating during the 2004 presidential election. In 2004, Arroyo ran against and won over late actor Fernando Poe Jr., Estrada’s best friend. “I’m sad because I know that FPJ’s (Poe) disappointment over his loss to Arroyo affected his health and eventually led to his death,” said Estrada.

NEWS CAPSBy Laurel Media

Peter Bithos (left), senior adviser for consumer business at Globe, Ernest Cu, president and chief executive, Globe Telecom, explain to local media reasons their iPhone 4S offering will have a better experience for subscribers.

INTERAKSYON.COM

3G. “Globe hopes to bring that worry down to zero, and this significant de-velopment will make that feasible today, because you can’t really enjoy an iPhone without a data connection,” he said. On the day of the Phil-ippine launch of the iPhone 4S, the second-ranked telecom f irm revealed that all four tiers of their iPhone plans would have unlimited data bundled with them, in answer to the incessant clamor of Filipino mobile users for data connection. Cu stressed that to meet the data traffic demand particularly from their smartphone subscribers, the company has earmarked as much as $700 million to upgrade its network infra-structure. However, the telecom executive pointed out that the investment goes beyond the network upgrade, as they will also be improving their

No more ‘bill shocks’ from our iPhone — Globe

Reacting to various complaints received from its previous iPhone offerings, Ayala-led Globe Telecom on Friday as-

sured subscribers that there will no more “bill shocks” with the launch of the new iPhone 4S with the network.

billing systems, business intelligence and customer relationship management platforms. “We are revamping and increasing the capacity of our platforms to enable us to understand consumer behavior much more accu-rately, and to help us gather data within minutes,” he explained. Overall, Bithos said that despite increased competi-tion from another player also offering the new iPhone today, the company expects to gain more revenue and postpaid subscribers from the lowered pricing plans for the phone. Globe currently has about 1.5 million postpaid users to date, reportedly the largest base in the country. Bithos, however, stressed that majority of the com-pany’s revenues still come from prepaid subscribers, which they hope to convert to the postpaid fold with attractive plans such that of the iPhone’s.

Globe Senior Advisor for Consumer Business Peter Bithos said that they would now impose a P999 cap on data for postpaid subscribers, so as to pre-vent users from racking up ridiculous phone bills from unintended Internet use on their iPhones. “Bill shock” is a term used loosely in the tele-com industry to refer to unusually high phone dues charged to users who un-intentionally access data services on their mobile phones. “Today we are announc-ing a ‘no-worry’ guarantee. All data usage across our entire postpaid base, even on regular plans, will be capped at P999,” Bithos said during the press briefing on Globe’s recent iPhone

4S launch. Being the exclusive pro-vider of the iPhone for the past three years, Globe had run-ins with incidents of “bill shocks” from custom-ers who were unwittingly consuming data on their unlis. The firm, however, de-nied that the company didn’t have measures to prevent such things from happening, and decided to address the issue by reminding users on how to take control of wireless connections from their smartphones. Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu admitted that bill shocks are a major concern of smartphone users in the Philippines today, saying it is probably the main reason why users prefer accessing the Internet over WiFi than

VEHICLE importer Hyun-dai Asia Resources Inc. (Hari) recorded a strong 40-percent sales growth in November, allowing the company to buck industry trend and post a 1-percent increment in the January-to-November period. “The strong sales recov-ery in November brought Hyundai’s sales in the first eleven months of the year to 18,922 units or 1-percent growth from the previous year, beating industry’s negative sales outlook in the wake of slower Gross Dosmetic Product growth of 3.2 percent in the third quarter of 2011 and natural calamities which hit Japan and Thailand,” the company said in a statement. Hyundai sold 2,217 units in November, driven by the

Hyundai sales gained by 40% in November

MR. Generoso H. Balacuit (seated), manager for HOME Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) - Butuan Branch, pauses with Caraga Region’s top developers and his staff during the agency’s 31st founding day, Tuesday. From left Housing Loans Chief Noly Quimbo; Documentation Head Marissa Estreller (Primeland Properties); Marketing Documentation Manager Gilbert Catpo (Inglewood Realty & Devt Corp.); President Victor S. Uy (VCDU Realty Corp.), this year’s HIGHEST RANKING DEVELOPER; Provident, Marketing & Enforcement Chief Christopher Loon; Butuan Assistant Branch Manager Lydia Fortaleza; Documentation Head Romeo Caharian (Primeland Prop-erties); Branch Manager Josie Escudero (Johndorf Ventures Corp.); Butuan Branch Lawyer Loma Linda Say; and Butuan Branch Property Appraiser Evlory Engana.

PHOTO COURTESY OF RONALD I. TABADA HYUNDAI/PAGE 11

5BusinessWeekMINDANAO

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ALLAN MEDIANTEEXECUTIVE EDITOR

THINK a minute… A hotel sign in Tokyo, Japan had this rule on it: “Is forbidden to steal towels please. If you are not person to do such is please not to read sign.” Someone said that rules are like a fence around us. We need them to keep us inside so we won’t break out and hurt ourselves or others. We have rules at home, at work, at school, in sports, and for driving on the road. And if we move to another country and culture, we must learn to follow their rules. Many people think Christians are a group of people who just try to fol-low strict, boring rules that are old fashioned and defi-

nitely not cool! They think Christians can’t have any fun or freedom in life. We can’t do this or that, can’t go here or there. So they think being a Christian is like living inside a fence or prison wall that won’t let you out to have fun and enjoy life. But that’s not true Christianity! Jesus Christ Himself said He did not come to bring more rules to build a tighter fence around us so that we become prisoners. It’s just the opposite! Jesus said He came to set people free, so we won’t need rules to keep us honest or force us to love and forgive others. Jesus isn’t nearly as in-terested in rules as He’s interested in YOU. He knows

that if you’ll just let Him take full charge of your heart and character every day, He can start changing your life. Then you and I won’t be like children who need a lot of rules to tell us what and what not to do. For example, if you truly love your neighbor, then you don’t need a rule to stop you from stealing from him, since you never steal from someone you really love and care about. When God the Son changes our heart and char-acter inside, then everything we do comes from the new person we’re becoming. Jesus’ love and power starts to set us free from being a prisoner to our selfish greed and dishonesty. So won’t you

ask Jesus to forgive you for your wrong, self-centered heart? Then ask Him to start changing you, so you can enjoy the success and freedom of having Jesus’ character and life yourself, which is so much more than rules. Just Think a Minute…

IT is a gift befitting a hero of his stature. For his 150th birth an-niversary, our national hero Dr. Jose Rizal received a special gift in the form of the one-piso commemora-tive Rizal coin. A special collaboration between the Rizal Founda-tion and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the coin features one of the most popular portraits of Rizal. The BSP produced 10 million pieces of the round, grayish, nickel-plated steel coin. The BSP started releas-ing the commemorative one-piso coins last week. The face of the coin features the portrait of the hero and the markings, “150 years,” “Republika ng Pilipi-nas,” and “1861-2011.” The reverse side, on the other hand, shows the new BSP seal, “1-piso” and “2011.” It has the same size (24-millimeters in diameter) and weight (5.35 grams) as the one-piso coin currently in circulation. Dr. Paterson Encabo,

head of the BSP’s Mint Refinery and Operations Department (MROD), said the Rizal Foundation (made up of the relatives of our national hero) had proposed the idea of minting a com-memorative coin in honor of Rizal’s 150th anniversary. The hero’s relatives ini-tially wished that a young Rizal be portrayed on the coin. In the end, however, a more recognizable photo of the hero was used. The BSP also decided that the new BSP seal be showcased on the coin’s reverse side. “We believe that this is the opportune time to introduce to the Filipino people, by way of this coin, the BSP’s new seal,” Encabo said. (Current coins in cir-culation carry the old seal.) After the MROD finished the coin’s design, it passed through various stages of approval by the BSP Numis-matic Committee (I sit as Advisor of the Committee), the Monetary Board, and finally, the Office of the

President. Just a little refresher on the BSP’s new seal: The Monetary Board had chosen the Philippine Eagle, our national bird, as the seal’s central symbol. The Philip-pine eagle is reputed to be the world’s largest eagle and stands as a symbol of strength, keen vision, and independence–quali-ties which the BSP aspires for in its quest to become a world-class monetary au-thority. The logo also includes three stars, representing the three pillars of central banking: 1) price stability, 2) a stable banking system, and 3) a safe and reliable payments system. The three stars can also be interpreted to represent BSP’s equal concern for the impact of its policies and programs on all Filipinos–whether they are in Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao. The use of non-serif, bold fonts for “BANGKO SENTRAL NG PILIPINAS” suggests solidity, strength,

and stability. It also portrays the no-nonsense profes-sional manner of doing business at the BSP. Lastly, the logo’s round shape stands for the BSP’s continuing and unending quest to become a world- class monetary authority committed to improving the quality of life of Filipinos. This round shape is also reminiscent of Philippine coins, the basic units of our currency. Aside from the December 2011 release of the com-memorative one-piso coin,

BUNYE/PAGE 7

THERE are 3 stages in a man’s life. The first stage: He believes in Santa Claus. The second stage: He does not believe in Santa Claus. The third stage: He believes HE IS Santa Claus.

Ho. Ho. Ho. For this reason, we are making a shopping list and checking it twice, so friends will know we are not naughty but nice.

Christmas is just anoth-er excuse to indulge in our predilection for pleasures and things, hedonists that we are. In our crass culture of materialism, Santa Claus with his big bag of good-ies is a more fitting icon for the commercial festival that Christmas has become. Ironically, the little child Jesus Christ, who is the reason for the season that bears His name, is all but forgotten and buried in the clutter of wrapping paper.

Don’t look for Jesus in parties or malls. He is not invited there. He is in the

quiet stable of your heart when your knees are bent and your head is bowed in prayer.

Advent is a time of spiritual preparation. But it doesn’t look like we’re preparing for the coming of the Prince of Peace, but the arrival of the godfather of gifts. We prefer bling-dom to God’s kingdom. We desire entertainment more than enlightenment. That is why we are stumbling in the dark, because we choose not the light.

For Christmases past, I’m ashamed to admit that I spent this holy season not as a faithful follower of the Son of Man, but as a faithless worshipper of the sun of fun.

Jesus’ pitying glance has finally convicted me. I look at our table groaning with calorific enticements, and I am put to shame. I hear the moan of hungry chil-dren with bloated stomachs,

and it’s my turn to groan. What gall to gobble up a lavish feast while outside my comfy cocoon a needy family is making do with a tiny plate of rice sprinkled with lots of salt. This is their entire Noche Buena. Guilty thoughts like this point an accusing finger at me, and the paksiw get stuck in my throat.

The newborn King is wrapped in ukay-ukay, but here I am strutting in my designer attire. Disgraceful!

Mercifully, it’s not too late for us to come to our senses. Christmas is not yet over. We still have time for a spiritual make-over. I made a pledge that I will make my Christmas meaningful, by daily scattering seeds of generosity. Everyday, at least one person who is in need of charity shall receive a bless-ing from me, either in cash or in kindness. Instead of a Misa de Gallo, mine will be a Novena de Amor. With

perseverance, this could turn into a lifestyle of giv-ing. Then I shall know the ineffable joy of celebrating Christmas everyday.

Yes, be Santa Claus. Be a bearer of gifts to the poor children that Santa Claus forgot.

Are you celebrating a Merry Christmas or a Blessed Christmas? The Ho-Ho-Ho is not the voice to follow. Listen to the an-gels sing, and you will find the newborn King!

CHRISTMAS

7BusinessWeekMINDANAO

Dec. 19-22, 2011Views.OpinionViews.Opinion

HEALTH INHEALTH INFOCUSFOCUS

DR. MARY JEANLORECHE-DIAO

Hypersensitivity Reactions The force of power

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FORCE, might or strength, authority, command or rule, dominion, supremacy or sov-ereignty – this is power in so many words, in so many expressions, meanings and implications. It is not only the capacity and the competency to have something done, but also the vigor and eff ect of the thing done. In the hand of someone upright and prudent, power is an attribution in favor of those covered and served by the same. Otherwise, powers become not only dangerous but also damaging to tall those covered by the power concerned. It is said that in a sovereign and republican state – like the Philippines – that has three co-equal branches of government, therein are also three “power” supposed to be serving the people by attend-ing to their public welfare. One is the “Power of the Sword” to penalize those found transgressing the law (Executive Department). Two is the “Power of the Pen” to interpret the meaning and implications of the law (Judiciary). Th e Th ird is the “Power of the Purse” that enacts the laws and regulates the expenditures of the fi rst two Departments (Legislature). Such an apportionment of power is meant to balance and counter-balance the functions

and reach of the said three branches of government – all for the common good of the citizens particularly in the search for truth, in the administration of justice and in the enjoyment of peace that brings about national socio-economic development. Th e citizens are the ones who give every centavo and peso that the government needs, requires and demands. And, these people do so through their continuous direct and indirect taxes from birth to death. “Deep Concern” – this is the diplomatic expression of how Filipinos look at and feel the on-going serious clash specifi cally between the Chief Executive and the Chief Jus-tice. Th e intramurals between the Executive Department and the Judiciary are by and large caused by the GMA phe-nomenon plus the hacienda Luisita catastrophe. Th e some kind of a boxing match is not only becoming worse but also being pro-longed. Th e “Deep Concern” is by and large caused by the fact that at the end of the game, the tax payers are the ultimate losers. Why? Said two powers are fi xated with one another – with the people in general they are precisely bound to serve, taking but a back seat to watch – cheer or jeer them.

Result: Millions of Filipinos remain poor and hungry, miserable and destitute. In the course of Philippine history, there was once that government that arrogated all the three functions of the “Sword,” the “Pen,” and the “Purse” to himself. Th en came a government with such a weak and ineff ective rule that one too many coups were staged against. Th ereaft er ap-peared government that was identifi ed with wine, women and song. And so on – until the present government came about with much noise but no content, with a lot of posturing but without substance, with many promises but no deliv-eries. Pitiful Filipinos! When shall they be blessed – if ever – with competent, upright, and eff ective governance?

DECEMBER is not just the month of celebrations but also being the year end or closing part of the year, our homemakers find this month as the best time to do a general house clean-ing! Thus, if , you have been reading Health IN Focus , it started the month with discussions on information relevant to the festivities: food and You. Along with the celebration, is sometimes the temptation to indulge even with food or drinks that may trigger an allergic attack! Allergies are an abnormal response of the immune system, where the body’s defenses react to a usually harmless substance, be it food or something in the environment. It is said that almost anything can trigger a reaction! I recall my men-tor , who, each time he gets admitted for his allergies, he jokingly would say that one of his most notorious allergens ( substances that trigger the cascade mecha-nism for the reaction ), is his exposure to people who aren’t his favorites! The most common trig-gers for a hypersensitiv-ity reaction to occur are actually substances that we encounter daily and is mostly so much a part of our environment , and this may range from what we eat, breathe or touch. Even the very basic of our needs, which is WATER can elicit a reaction. Certain kinds of food like nuts, milk, shellfish and wheat are known culprits, just as certain medications or drugs can cause a reaction. It is of paramount importance then to know what causes an allergic attack or hy-persensitivity reaction, as it is a LIFE SAVING vital

information that you can relay to the Medical staff in the event of emergencies. I had the most unfortunate experience of a near respi-ratory arrest due to a sup-posedly safe and universal pain reliever. A skin test was not performed due to the assumption that the said drug has very little history of triggering a hypersensi-tivity reaction! Even the most common antipyretic ( fever drugs ) can and do cause allergies to susceptible individuals. Our very own homes can also harbor al-lergens: dust mites, molds, insects, cockroaches, pol-lens, pet dander! I would then say, let us not wait for December to do our house cleaning, but, to do it on a regular basis. These reactions are man-ifest in several ways too. If it is the skin that is affected, it will be seen as urticaria or hives. Sometimes, it is quite distressing to see one’s skin, not flawless and smooth as others which can affect the self esteem and confidence, particularly if this happens to our growing up kids. And, yes, before I forget, stress can trigger the vicious cycle of allergic attacks! When it is the lungs or respiratory system that is involved, we have what we call a bronchial asthma. Runny noses or rhinitis which is very disturbing indeed is another indication that one may be having a hypersensitivity reaction. Swelling of the lids, the cheeks and lips, digestive problems like loose bowel movements and abdominal cramps and pain, and yes, itchiness , are also warning signals of an allergy. What is scary though is the fact that a simple allergy can and may produce an ana-

phylactic reaction, which is life threatening. When you or your family member feels any of these: low grade fever, feeling light headed or dizzy, excessive skin rash, difficulty of swallowing or breathing, seek immediate medical attention! Sometimes, when , de-spite antihistamine or ste-roid use, and avoidance of what you know are the triggers of the attack, seeing a specialist, the ALLER-GOLOGIST friend, may be necessary. And, dur-ing consult, a skin allergy test may be recommended. These tests may range from a prick test, a patch test or an Intradermal test, with the ultimate goal of trying to know what truly causes the allergies. Chances are, it is not just a single aller-gen, but quite a number and surprisingly, it may consist of one’s favorite foods. Although the test-ing is a benign procedure, a word of caution here: there may be risks to it too, like, developing swollen red bumps or hives which can become very itchy ( though it usually disappears in a few hours ), and the most severe of which, is, one may develop a full blown allergic reaction after the test is performed.

to Greatness.” The July 17, 2011 ex-hibit, showcased coins and banknotes (where Rizal’s image or monument ap-pear), ranging from five centavos to 100 pesos, that

Bunye...from page 6

LIVELIHOOD SUPPORT. Bukidnon Gov. Alex P. Calingasan did the rounds to visit Bukid-non towns and distributed financial assistance as part of his administration’s liveli-hood program. The campaign to reach out to the indigents to provide sustainable livelihood projects and to strive also for the advocacy of environmental protection is also supported by the Diocese of Malaybalay. Photo shows Governor Calingasan with Malaybalay Bishop Jose Araneta-Cabantan and the Lumad recipients of San Fernando, Bukidnon. PHOTO BY BENJIE MACATIPON-PGO

the BSP paid tribute to Rizal earl ier this year through the exhibit, “Rizal in our Midst: A Homage

were issued since 1903. Note: You may email us at totingbunye2000@gmail.com. Past articles may be viewed at http://speakingout.ph/speaking-out.php.

8 BusinessWeekMINDANAODec. 19-22, 2011

MATTRESS/PAGE 10

The mattress of your dreamsaddresses the needs and caprices of different per-sonalities. Part of the RGC Foam Group, Uratex is the largest manufacturer of commercial and automotive polyurethane foam products in the country. Through world-class manufactur-ing practices and a strong culture of excellence, the Group has become the most dominant player in the local foam industry and one of the leading foam-makers in Southeast Asia. The original Uratex Foam Mattress is a testament to the Uratex brand’s reliabil-ity. More popularly called as the mattress with the “blue foam” and known for its durability, support and comfort, the Uratex Foam Mattress has since become largely imitated and remains a top-selling brand among consumers with basic bed requirements. Uratex Foam Mattresses comes with a 5-year warranty. For its healthy attri-butes, a Uratex mattress highly recommended is the Permahard Mattress, which is 20 percent harder than Uratex Foam. Often called the “yellow foam,” Permahard, with a war-ranty of 7 years, is doctor-recommended for those who need an “orthopedic mat-tress.” The Uratex Comfort Plus mattress, meanwhile, is designed putting a person’s

SLEEP is vital for productivity and beneficial to health and well-being. Scientific studies have deduced that if one misses adequate

sleep for days, the following are impaired: reaction time, judgment, vision, information processing, short-term memory, performance, motivation, vigilance and patience. According to findings at Harvard Medical School’s Division of Sleep Medi-cine, one’s body manages and requires sleep in much the same way that it regu-lates the need for eating, drinking and breathing. The

studies further show that “sleep plays a vital role in promoting physical health, longevity, and emotional well-being. Sleep benefits are extensive and can make a difference in your quality of life, as well as the length of your life. Therefore, it is vital to place a priority on getting ample, consistent sleep.”

With this, the bed be-comes the most important piece of furniture in your home, what with the amount of time you spend sleeping so it is also equally impor-tant that mattress choice shouldn’t be a matter of

losing sleep over. A mat-tress may be costly, but it is an essential item you will keep for about 5-7 years on average. With our health and well-being heavily de-pendent on having a good night’s rest, the price no longer becomes an issue. To help you decide which mattress to choose, Uratex has an extensive line that

weight into consideration. It has the same high-quality character of Uratex foam but packed with more-than-enough polymer that can support heavier users and has the ability to withstand rigorous usage. It comes with a 10-year warranty. Brilliantly designed for your ultimate comfort, the Uratex Premium Touch Viscoluxe Memory has an advanced and combined pocket-spring system and body-molding memory foam for soothing indul-gence. Sensitive to body heat and weight, the memory foam gently conforms to body contours to relieve pressure points and create a comfortable cocoon. The pressure-free sensation al-lows the joints and spine

Foam Orthocare

to be in natural alignment. Overall, the mattress pro-vides an all-over feeling of relaxation and comfortable sleep, minus the tossing and turning. This is the mat-tress for the hardworking, corporate-driven who leads a sedentary life in the office. Sleep helps the body

make repairs, the mantra of those who swear on the benefits of “beauty sleep.” For that, Uratex’s K Every-day Premium perfectly ad-dresses the specific warmth, comfort, style and sleeping requirements of the Filipino woman. Its fusion of impec-

Foam Purifoam

Foam_Therapoint

9BusinessWeekMINDANAO

Dec. 19-22, 2011

Gender advocates spend Yuletide with inmates

By ELAINE O. RATUNIL

THE Gender Advocates (GA) in Northern Min-danao will celebrate this season with an annual outreach program to de-serving beneficiaries this city, December 22. Formerly known as the Gender Advocates and Women in Government Service (GA-WINGS), GA has chosen the female inmates in the Cagayan de Oro City Jail, located

at Lumbia, this city. As agreed among its members, GA will be dis-tributing goods that can be used on a daily basis by the inmates such as personal hygiene, clothing and food among others. In similar development, newly elected GA presi-dent, Clarissa C. Rosales, said the member-agencies are currently initiating donation drives at their respective offices to this cause.

PCSO reg’l office in Agusan del NorteBy JAY VINCENT V. DEMAIN

Contributor

AGUSAN del Norte -- A regional Office of the Phil-ippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) will soon be built inside the capitol compound. This, after the provincial government here gave its go signal by virtue of a resolu-tion. Through Sanggunian Resolution No. 290-2011, it allowed PCSO to occupy 728 square-meter lot adjacent to the Sangguniang Panlala-wigan office which will be used for the construction of its regional branch to serve as its Provincial District Office here in the province. According to PCSO of-

ficials, the agency chose the provincial capitol for its strategic location, acces-sibility to human traffic and cost-efficient in terms of lease found most advantageous to the government. Under the terms of a memorandum of agree-ment between PCSO and the provincial government, the agency will lease the lot for a period of 50 years, renewable for another 25 years. Upon the expiration of the agreement, the building and its improvements shall become the property of the province. Building construction will start six months after the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement.

Police reminds public to be wary in buying firecrackers

By JORIE C. VALCORZA

POLICE SUPERINTENDENT Sandy S. Vale, chief of the Firearms and Explosives Section (PES) of the Police Regional Of-

fice 10 (PRO 10) calls on the public to be wary on the type of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices they would buy. He said it should bear labels indicating the name and address of the manufac-turer and warning instruc-tions written in Filipino and English. Products must likewise carry the Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of Product Standards (DTI-BPS) seal. Vale said explosives con-tent must not go beyond the standard 0.2 grams or it will pose danger to life and limb.

Prohibited explosives includes the big triangulo, super lolo and all other de-vices exceeding the required content set by Republic Act 7183, “An act regulating the sale, manufacture, distribu-tion and use of firecrack-ers and other pyrotechnic devices prohibited.” Vale further noted the ban also covers common firecrackers such as Piccolo, Pop Pop and Watusi, as prohibited by the Depart-ment of Health (DOH) in a Memorandum of Agree-

ment signed by the agency and the Philippine National Police (PNP). All other firecrackers allowed include the baby rocket, bawang, small tri-angulo, pulling of strings, paper caps, el diablo, ju-das belt, sky rocket and other types equivalent to the foregoing in explosive content. For pyrotechnics the allowable list covers spar-klers, fountain, jumbo, mabuhay, roman candle, trompillo, airwolf and the

whistle device. Dealers are also reminded not to display in excess and are advised to retain their stocks in a warehouse. Vale added that selling of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices inside the mall is also prohibited. Meanwhile, PCSupt. Jufel C. Adriatico, Regional Direc-tor of PRO 10 and Regional Law Enforcement Coordi-nating Council Chairman reminded his personnel to be proactive for the moni-toring and enforcement of the firecracker ban.

10 BusinessWeekMINDANAODec. 19-22, 2011

Department of Environment and Natural Resources CENRO Initao, Misamis Oriental

NOTICE It is hereby announced that RAY G. MANIGSACA of Tabok, Opol, Misamis Oriental has applied in this office of the purchase, without public auction, under his/her Miscellaneous Sales Application No. 104321-113 for Commercial purpose of Lot No. 46320, Cad- 237 is identical to MSI-104321-113-D situated in Tabok, Opol, Misamis Oriental containing an area of 617 square meters in accordance with Republic Act No. 730 [as amended by PD 2004]. By virtue of the authority granted by the Secretary of Department f Environment and Natural Resources, this office will, without public auction , sell to the applicant, RAY G. MANIGSACA the parcel of land on ________________________ for Two Hundred Ninety Six Thousand One Hundred Sixty [P296,160.00] pesos for the whole tract, in accordance with the said Republic Act No. 730 [ as amended by PD 2004]. If there is any claim to this land, such claims must be filed at the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office, Malasag Heights, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City on or before the date of Sale, otherwise, the said claim shall forever be barred. Cagayan de Oro City, November 9, 2011.

(Sgd.) ALDRICH S. RESMA OIC, CENR OfficerBWM Nov 21, 28 & Dec 5, 12, 19, 26, 2011

CAGAYAN DE ORO MAIN BRANCH

P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers – Kalambagohan Sts.,

Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947

CAMIGUIN BRANCH B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao,

Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491

CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City

DIVISORIA BRANCH Att y. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A.

Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631

LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City

Tel. # (088) 231-6739a

EXTRA JUDICIAL PARTITION WITH WAIVER

Notice is hereby given that the intestate estate of the Late DIONESIO O. RECOLITO who died on November 2, 1910 at Libertad, Misamis Oriental, died without leaving a will and left no debts; left parcels of land more particularly bounded and described as follows; “A parcel of land situated at Initao, Misamis Oriental, covered by ARP No. 21-0001-00282 Property Index No. 052-21-0001-009-04; Lot No. 175-P, declared under the name of RECOLITO, DIONESIO (HRS OF), containing an area of 270 SQUARE METERS, more or less, is the subject of EXTRA JUDICIAL PARTITION WITH WAIVER among LUCINA R. CABIGQUEZ, legal age, married, resident of Libertad, Misamis Oriental and DONATO RECOLITO, legal age, married, resident of Villanueva, Misamis Oriental, are the legitimate surviving heirs, hereby waives our rights and participations of the above-described properties in favor to SACRIS O. RECOLETO under Notary Public of BUENAVENTURA E. SAGRADO as per Doc. No. 422; Page No. 85; Book No. 88; Series of 2011.

MDB: DECEMBER 19, 26, 2011 & JAN. 3, 2012

Department of Environment and Natural Resources CENRO Initao, Misamis Oriental

NOTICE

It is hereby announced that RAY G. MANIGSACA of Tabok, Opol, Misamis Oriental has applied in this office of the purchase, without public auction, under his/her Miscellaneous Sales Application No. 104321-113-A for Commercial purpose of Lot No. 37876, Cad- 237 is identical to Psu 10-001055 situated in Tabok, Opol, Misamis Oriental containing an area of 284 square meters in accordance with Republic Act No. 730 [as amended by PD 2004]. By virtue of the authority granted by the Secretary of Department f Environment and Natural Resources, this office will, without public auction , sell to the applicant, RAY G. MANIGSACA the parcel of land on ________________________ for One Hundred Thirty Six Thou-sand Three Hundred Twenty [P136,320.00] pesos for the whole tract, in accordance with the said Republic Act No. 730 [ as amended by PD 2004]. If there is any claim to this land, such claims must be filed at the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office, Malasag Heights, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City on or before the date of Sale, otherwise, the said claim shall forever be barred. Cagayan de Oro City, November 9, 2011.

(Sgd.) ALDRICH S. RESMA OIC, CENR OfficerBWM Nov 21, 28 & Dec 5, 12, 19, 26, 2011

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MisOr Today MisOr Today

Started by resident artist and provincial administra-tor Patrick U. Gabutina in 2005, the capitol grounds have become the site for installation artworks such as the Canopy of Lights he jointly conceived with fel-low artist Cris Rollo (2006), the Lantay by Errol Balcos (2008), and the 1,001 Lights of Hope, Joy and Redemp-tion of Ivan F. Macarambon (2010). “Governor Oscar S. Moreno gave us a free hand to decide how we would decorate the park during Christmas,” Mr. Gabutina recalls. “He just told me to do something the people would enjoy.” Installation art is charac-terized by the use of indig-enous materials selected for their “evocative” qualities. Th ey are oft en site-specifi c, and are designed to ex-ist only in the location for which they were created. Unlike traditional sculp-ture which stresses its focus on form, contemporary in-stallation art emphasizes the “intention” of the artist, much like the conceptual art in vogue during the 1960s, Mr. Gabutina said. For i n s t an c e , t h e Lantay(bamboo pallet chair cum chaise lounge usually found in rural salas or ve-

Artists build a Christmas Heritage in MisOr’s CapitolFOR the past six years, individual members

of the Oro Art Guild have taken turns in transforming the Misamis Oriental Pro-

vincial Capitol grounds, better known as the De Lara Park, into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season.

randas) of Errol Balcos was a practical way for people to enjoy the park, provided them a place to rest and relax as much as it was an art form based on the bahay kubo. Last year, Ivan F. Macar-ambon, the capitol’s culture and arts consultant, concep-tualized the 1,001 Lights of Hope, Joy and Redemption which basically consisted of 1,400 teardrop-diamond shaped lanterns made by inmates from the Misamis Oriental Provincial Jail with indigenous materials tradi-tionally used for the parols they usually make during the last quarter of the year to earn a little extra income for Christmas. “Through this proj-ect we brought hope, joy and redemption to the in-mates and their families by bringing them back to the mainstream of society through this artwork that the residents who frequent the park during the Christ-mas season enjoy watching, especially during evenings,” Mr. Macarambon said. As a bow to the plague of global warming and climate change, this year’s installa-tion artwork that Mr. Ma-carambon has titled “2,000 Guiding Stars” was inspired by a seminar-workshop

The Misamis Oriental capitol grounds De Lara Park ablaze with “2,000 Guiding Stars” installation art by Ivan F. Macarambon, culture & arts consultant. PHOTO BY WOWEL CONDEZA, MOPPO

conducted by the Product Development and Design Center of the Philippines (PDDCP) he joined with fellow artist Chris Gomez which included a module on “ecodesign.” The artwork features reused four-liter plastic con-tainers (locally known as galon) wrapped in the plastic material locally known as charol, commonly used by carenderias to cover their tables. “We want to bring pure light to the visitors of the park, as a symbol of purity and goodness,” Mr. Ma-carambon said. “With the recycling of the common

plastic galon, we attempt to elevate this everyday mate-rial to the level of minimalist installation art.” Th e galon has been cut to a simple cylinder and adorned with a simple tail of white charol and changes shape with the weather: closing their fronds like cocoons during wet and cold spells, or opening up and waving with the wind like confetti from heaven. “Th e simplicity of the design underscores the message of purity and goodness, quali-ties that the Messiah, a child born in a manger, posses,” he added. (misamis oriental provincial press office)

Mattress...from page 8

home. Purifoam® by Uratex® was designed to help address this and satisfy the need for a mattress that of-fers protection against allergy-causing microbes. Treated with Sanitized® to provide long-lasting, safe and effective protection against bacteria, fungi, dust mites, mold, mildew and unpleasant odor, Purifoam is of superior quality and made with first-class knitted fabric cover to create an exceptional combination of strength, comfort and long-lasting protection. The Therapoint Mattress, on the other hand, is a superior grade, high resilient foam that provides a per-fect balance of comfort and support so that you can enjoy deep, sound sleep night after night. It uses the Coolmax® Technology Mattress cover, a high-performance fabric that dries fast compared to others and bal-ances body moisture and minimizes tiredness caused by perspiration and maximizes sleep quality. Therapoint® Mattress is one of the most durable and long-lasting foam mattresses ever designed, best suited to athletes and highly active individuals. For the designer label-obsessed, there is Trapunto by Rajo Laurel. Meaning “to embroider” in Italian, Trapunto is a classic European quilting style known for its delicate elegance and exquisite beauty. Exclusively designed by Rajo Laurel, one of the country’s most celebrated fashion designers, this specialty mattress offers a new level of luxury, support and comfort. With a contoured cut and knitted fabric cover, Trapunto provides a soft, plush feel for a cool and relaxed sleeping experience. Both foam and cover are treated with Sanitized® so you’re assured of effective anti-microbial protection. Being a 3-zone mattress, Trapunto ensures superior support in the shoulder, lumbar and hip areas. For comfort, for health, for the best sleep you’ll ever have, there is a unique Uratex mattress for you. Sleep better, feel better, live better.

cable style, superior quality and unwav-ering benefi ts gives you celebrity-style slumber! Who knew that a mattress could be so glamorous and comfortable at the same time? K Everyday® Pre-mium Mattress’ contour foam support design provides the support needed to key pressure areas of a woman’s body like the head, shoulder, pelvis, legs and feet. A fi rm edge support has been included to prevent you from collapsing as you sit on the side, and treated with Sanitized® to keep it fresh and protected from germs and dust-mites. A good night’s sleep helps slow the ill effects of a highly stressful lifestyle and help lower blood pres-sure and stress hormones, so take the Uratex Senso Memory Foam Mattress, designed for comfort, health for the best sleep ever. Say goodnight and goodbye to: back, neck, shoulder, leg and joint pains, headaches, muscle aches, sciatica, bed sores, pressure points, numbness, stress, fatigue and insomnia. Made of high-quality memory or visco-elastic foam origi-nally developed by NASA to reduce the extreme pressure exerted on astronauts during takeoff, it is treated with Sanitized® for safe and effective protection against bacteria, fungi, dust mites, mold, mildew and unpleasant odor. For pain relief, Orthocare, the “therapeutic” mattress, is Uratex’s hospital-quality mattress created to help sleepers with back pain prob-lems. It combines a high-density polyurethane mattress and multi-zone topper with breathable open-pored cell structure, with a fashionable jacquard-woven damask fabric treated with Sanitized®and quilted embroidered cover with an elegant, classic design. Millions of Filipinos, especially infants and children, suffer from aller-gies caused by dust mites and other germs and microorganisms found at

Congress WatchCongress Watch 11BusinessWeekMINDANAO

Dec. 19-22, 2011

Republic of the PhilippinesREGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF LANAO DEL NORTE

12th Judicial RegionBranch 07

Tubod, Lanao del Norte

MARVE BERJAME ABAPO, SPL. PROC. NO. 247-07-2011 (i) Petitioner, - for Correction of Entry - - versus – LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OFBAROY, LANAO DEL NORTE, Respondent.x - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - /

O R D E R A verified petition for correction of entry in the Certificate of Live Birth of MARVE BERJAME ABAPO as to her gender/sex was filed before this Court on October 5, 2011, by the herein petitioner praying among others that after notice and hearing, an Order be issued directing the Respondent to effect the correction sought for. Petitioner alleges that she is of legal age, Filipino, and resident of Salong, Baroy, Lanao del Norte. She was born on December 9, 1991 at Baroy, Lanao del Norte. Her birth was duly registered at the Respondent’s office, however, under the entry of her gender/sex, the one entered therein is ‘MALE’, instead of ‘FEMALE’, her true and correct sex/gender. Such erroneously entry may have been inadvertently done by the one who entered the facts of her birth. She had never undergone sex organ transplant neither does she intends to submit for medical operation to change her sex. She filed the instant petition as pauper litigant under OCA Circular No. 121-2007. Set the initial hearing of this case to December 6, 2011 at 8:30 in the morning before the sala of this Court. Any person/s interested to the petition may come to Court on said date and time to show cause why said petition should not be granted. Furnish copy of the Order to the Office of the Solicitor General at Makati City, Office of the Public Prosecutor, Office of the Local Civil Registrar, Public Attorney’s Office in Tubod, Lanao del Norte and to the petitioner, Marve B. Abapo at Salong, Baroy, Lanao del Norte. The petitioner is hereby directed to publish copy of this Order to BUSINESS WEEK, Mindanao, a newspaper of general circulation for three consecutive weeks, at her expense, to comply with the jurisdictional requirements of the Rules. SO ORDERED. Tubod, Lanao del Norte. October 7, 2011. (Sgd.) ALAN L. FLORES Presiding Judge BWM: Dec. 12, 19 & 26, 2011

Republic of the PhilippinesSUPREME COURT

REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL10th Judicial RegionCagayan de Oro City

OFFICE OF THE PROVINCIAL SHERIFF

SHERIFF’S NOTICE OF SALE

FILE NO. 2011-497

Upon Extra-Judicial Petition for Sale under Act 3135 as amended by Act No. 4118, filed by HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND (PAG-IBIG FUND), a government financial institution duly organized and existing under and by virtue of Republic Act No. 9679, with principal office at The Atrium of Makati, Makati Avenue, Makati City, and with branch of-fice at Pag-IBIG Fund Bldg., J. R. Borja St., Cagayan de Oro City, against PEREGRINA B. NAVAREZ married to ALEXANDER F. NAVAREZ, with postal address at Sta. Cruz 1, Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City and /or at Lot 16, Block 33, San Agustin Valley Homes, Canitoan, Cagayan de Oro City, to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of August 22, 2011 amounts to FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY FIVE THOUSAND THIRTEEN PESOS & 11/100 (P 455, 013.11), Philippine Currency, inclusive of interest and penalty charges, exclusive of attorney’s fees and other necessary fees and expenses of Extra-Judicial Foreclosure and Sale, the undersigned Sheriff will SELL at Public Auction on JANUARY 9, 2012 at 10:00 o’clock in the morning or soon thereafter at the Court Room of Regional Trial Court, Branch 39, 2nd Floor, Hall of Justice Bldg., Arch. S. Hayes Street, Cagayan de Oro City, to the Highest Bidder, for CASH or Manager’s Check and in Philippine Currency, the real property mortgaged together with all improvements thereon to wit:

TRANSFER CETIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-188354Registered in the name of PEREGRINA B. NAVAREZ

“A PARCEL OF LAND (Lot 16, Block 33, Psd-10-039732, being a por-tion of Lot 1, Pcn-104305-00191), situated in the Barangay of Canitoan, City of Cagayan de Oro, Island of Mindanao. Bounded on x x x. Beginning at x x x; containing an area of One Hundred Forty Thrtee (143) Square Meters, more or less.” Prospective buyers/bidders may investigate for themselves the title herein-above described and encumbrances thereon, if any there be. All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated date, time and place. In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date for whatever reason, the same will proceed on the following working day, without further notice, posting and publication. Cagayan de Oro City, November 29, 2011

(Sgd.) JOSEPH C. MAAGAD Sheriff IVBWM: DECEMBER 12, 19, & 26, 2011

Abante Mindanao solon pushes for ‘Power Mindanao’By ROBERT E. ROPEROS, Contributor

BUTUAN City -- Following the power crisis that the entire island of Mindanao is experiencing since last year, Abante

Mindanao (ABAMIN) Representative Maximo Rodriguez, Jr. is advocating “Power Mindanao.” Speaking before the local tri-media during the press conference held Thursday at the City Mayor’s conference room here, Rodriguez said he is supporting the withholding of the selling of Agus-Pulangi Plant. He also said congress-men in Mindanao are also supporting for the suspension of sel l ing the said 700-megawatt hydropower complex to

the private sector. He added if this will be sold out, this wil l drastically increase the price of electricity. “We don’t have to sell Agus-Pulangi,” Rodriguez said. Rodriguez also em-phasized that he also considered talking with Aboitiz Corporation for the installation of small hydro-package mill. He said the current of the rivers is enough to oper-ate the turbine.

“We have Agusan River here and this may pos-sibly be a good location for the installation of a turbine… there’s no need to have a dam anymore… the water current will al-low the turbine to work,” he said. The official further said considering solar

power system is Mind-anao is a good alternative for electricity. He said this is the only cheapest power source. “We hope we can also bring in so-lar power in Mindanao because that is the only cheapest source of power we can have,” Rodriguez said.

House okays 19 bills on 3rd readingTHE House of Representatives ap-proved on third and final reading 19 bills including those seeking stiffer penalties for the sale of “botcha” or “double dead” meat (House Bill 5490), and the Anti-Bullying Act of 2012 under HB 5496. Other approved bills are HB 2951 authored by Rep. Marlyn Primicias-Agabas, otherwise known as “An Act to established periods of prescription for violations penal-ized by special acts and municipal ordinances and to provide when prescription shall begin to run”. HB 5445 authored by Rep. Edgar San Luis, prohibiting public and private hospitals from requir-ing the payment of money upon registered nurses who want to gain work experience. HB 4936 authored by Reps. Socrates, Villarica, Primiclas-Agabas, Palmones and Bonoan-David de-criminalizing vagrancy, amending for this purpose article 202 of Act No. 3815, as amended, otherwise known as the Revised Penal Code. HB 5492 authored by Reps. Bagatsing and Teodoro granting franchise to the TV Maria Foundation Philippines, incorporated allowing it to construct, install establish, operate and maintain television broadcasting stations in the Philip-pines. HB 1215 authored by Reps. Dato Arroyo, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Macapagal-Arroyo, Syjuco, Romualdez, Primiclas-Agabas, Lopez and Cabaluna, amending Section 2 of Republic Act No. 4103, as amended, otherwise known as the Indeterminate Sentence Law. HB 5475 authored by Calixto-Rubiano, Del Mar Herrera-Dy, Cli-maco and Robes, expanding the positions reserved for persons with disability, amending for the purpose Republic Act No. 7277, as amended, otherwise known as the “Magna Carta for Persons with Disability.” HB 1219 authored by Reps. Dato Arroyo, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Juan Miguel Macapagal-Arroyo, and Marlyn Primiclas-Agabas, amend-ing Article 98 of Act No. 3815, as amended, otherwise known as the Revised Penal Code. HB 5395 authored by Reps. Farinas, Violago, Casino, Tupas, Colmenares, Ilagan, Mariano, Pala-tino, De Jesus, Tinio, Ferrer (J), Fua, Arnaiz, Nograles, Syjuco, Teodoro and Cabaluna, institutionalizing recognizance as a mode of granting the release of an indigent person in custody as an accused in a criminal

case and for other purposes. HB 5461 and 3871 authored by Reps. Cresente Paez and Jose Ping-ay respectively, extending the term of the Land Bank of the Philippines, further amending Republic Act No. 3844, otherwise known as the “Agricultural Land Reform Code,” and mandating the representation of cooperatives in the Board of Directors of the Land Bank of the Philippines. HB 5471 authored by Reps. Nava, Maranon, Villarica, Flores, Lapus, Ocampos, Dalog, San Luis, Lagdameo (M), Bernos, Cajayon, Arquiza, Rufus Rodriguez, De Jesus, Roman, Ting, Golez (A), Violago, Abayon, Castro and Herrera-Dy, strengthening the regulation of health facilities and services in the Philippines. HBs 4097 and 5069 authored by Reps. Antonio Tinio and Bernado Vergara respectively, declaring October 5 of every year as “National Teacher’s Day” and declaring Sep-tember 3 of every year as special commemorative day to be called the National Victory and Liberation Day of the Philippines. HBs 5421 and 5485 authored by Reps. Edcel Lagman and Rufus Rodriguez respectively, aim to establish an “Adopt-A-Wildlife Species Program”, providing in-centives therefore and providing for the protection, rehabilitation, and sustainable management of forest ecosystem. HB 5431 authored by Rep. Deogracias Ramos Jr., granting exemption to an individual taxpayer amending for the purpose Section 35 (B) of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997. HB 5446 authored by Berna-dette Herrera-Dy, strengthening the balanced housing development program. HB 2951 authored by Rep. Marlyn Primicias-Agabas, amend-ing Act No. 3326, or the Act to establish periods of prescription violations penalized by special acts and municipal ordinances. The Lower House also adopted a Joint Resolution increasing the FY 2011 corporate budget of the National Power Corporation from Seven Billion five hundred seventy five million one hun-dred eighty four thousand pesos (P7,575.184.000.00) to thirteen billion nine hundred sixty eight million six hundred two thousand pesos (P13,968,602,000.00), authored by Speaker Feliciano Belmonte.

hand, said due to com-munication problems as a result of power outages, cities of Valencia, Iligan and Ozamiz are yet to submit their reports and damages are still to be determined.

RDRRMC is led by Of-fice of Civil Defense (OCD)-Northern Mindanao, De-partment of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-10, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA)-10 and other line agencies of the government including military and po-lice commanders.

The OCD, RDRRMC, and all concerned branches of the government, includ-ing the private sectors are now joining hands and ef-forts in giving relief assis-tance to the flood victims.

Sendong, the 19th storm to hit the Philippines this year, has made another landfall in the vicinity of Puerto Princesa city and is now heading towards West Philippine Sea. (pia-10)

Death...from page 2

flood waters. Buildings and household items such as television sets and fridges were destroyed and swept away by the flood waters.

The heavy downpour, that started about 4:00 p.m. Friday and lasted until about 3:00 a.m. Saturday, brought almost every activity in the capital city to a halt.

Some businesses had to close down because the flood waters had taken over their premises and also of the power and water outages.

Walls were broken down while wooden structures and even some buildings, particularly those on water courses, were destroyed by the floods.

Military personnel and other rescue teams used boats to rescue some of the trapped residents, especially in areas where flooding was very extensive.

Cañeda, on the other

both the passenger car and luxury commercial vehicle categories, which grew by 14 percent and 38 percent, respectively. “With better supply situation, all models across the Hyundai portfol io surged this November, led by compact sedans Accent

Hyundai...from page 4

81-percent sales hike in its passenger car models. The company said No-vember sales improved by 22 percent from the prior month. This was attributed to the resurging sales in

and the Elantra. Demand across Hyundai brands has been outstripping supply and buyers have placed advance orders across the Hyundai dealer network,” Hari said. The company is hoping that the easing of supply constraints will help meet accelerating demand for Hyundai models and further boost sales. Looking ahead, Hari said consumer outlook next year will be hinged on expecta-tions of improved domestic economy, reduced external

volatilities from US and European Union markets, and continued inflows from overseas Filipino worker remittances and foreign direct investment. “As we finish the year with a positive growth, we look forward to promis-ing prospects in 2012. We will remain committed to sustaining our efforts to surprise car buyers with new value propositions and actively respond to our customers’ needs,” said Maria Fe Perez-Agudo, Hari president and CEO.

The agenc y, w hich is tasked to implement Executive Order 26, or the National Greening Program, has identified coffee as among the plants that qualify under the initiative, Mr. Mendoza said. Despite previous pro-grams, the country’s cof-fee production has been declining.

Coff ee...from page 1u m e c om e s f rom t h e Davao Region. Marlo D. Mendoza, Environment and Natu-ral Resources assistant secretary, said that based on government data, the country has been import-ing coffee mostly from Indonesia and Vietnam.

Based on estimates of the Department of Ag-riculture, the country’s coffee output during the first nine months of the year was down by 7% compared to the same period last year. Jennifer E. Remoquillo, acting head of the Agri-culture department’s High Value Crops Develop-ment Program, said the

decline, specif ically in the Davao Region, was attributed to the conver-sion of coffee farms into other uses, among them banana plantations. However, Ms. Remo-quillo said that by next year, a 5% increase in coffee production is ex-pected as the government opens 3,000 hectares for new coffee farms.

by Col. Daniel Lucero are sending 100 soldiers to Ili-gan City as an augmenta-tion volunteers to help in the rescue and recovery operations in the city. The 103rd Infantry Bri-gade is based in Kampo Ranao, this city.The troops will also be bringing the speedboats of the Brigade. (pia 10)

Havoc...from page 2severely affected by floods are Bubong, Ditsaan Ra-main, Taraka, Poona Baya-bao and Mulondo. However, he said that the impact of Sendong in the province is still manageable. Meanwhile, the 103rd Infantry Brigade headed

AggieAggie12 BusinessWeekDec. 19-22, 2011

THE Cagayan de Oro River is one of the cleanest rivers in the Philippines with challenging rapids that brings enjoyment to wilderness fun. When visiting Northern Min-danao, the second nearest hotel to the Lumbia Airport is the 4-star Pryce Plaza, some 15 minutes drive to the City. The hotel Concierge can arrange daily schedules for a minimum of six participants or more to the White Water Rafting service providers serving the hotel. Guests with athletic and swim-ming ability are invited to raft the river with sightseeing trip. Anyone who enjoys the outdoor and is looking for the adventure

that pumps the adrenalin from the sudden drops, ledges and rapids, can seek the thrill. Pryce Plaza is also the staging point to the eco-tourism desti-nation to the nearby province of Bukidnon. The hotel has a fleet of Chauffeur driven brand new Sedans and Luxury Vans provided by Nissan Rent a Car. For more information write or call Pryce Plaza located at Carmen Hill, Cagayan de Oro City with Telephone Numbers (08822) 726464 or (08822) 722791 with Email Address : res-ervations@pryceplaza.ph. Website: www.pryceplaza.net

The two-day training, specifically intended for members of the Sarangani Seaweed Producers Coop-erative, was implemented by the Post Harvest Sec-tion (PHS) of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Region 12 in coordination with the De-

Small fruit farmers in South Cotabato target global markets

Members of the Tupi Papaya and Guava Growers Association (TUPAGGA), a farmer group in South Cotabato, apply hot water treatment to sunrise variety papayas which were recently shipped to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. -- GEM

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- Small farmers and produc-ers in developing countries, aware of the quality control standards and volume re-quirements of buyers in the global food trade, quickly decide that they can’t aff ord to compete. But as a fruit growing association in Mindanao found out in today’s highly diversifi ed and fast-moving food trade, even small players can penetrate export markets and increase profi ts. The Tupi Papaya and Guava Growers Association (TUPAGGA), a 25-member cooperative with a production area of about 50 hectares, saw itself only as a supplier to markets in Mindanao and in Metro Manila. Earlier this year, the as-sociation, like other fruit growers, was in the doldrums aft er the Japan earthquake and tsunami caused a sharp drop in demand for tropical fruits. Multinational fi rms based in the Philippines which regularly supply the Japa-nese market dumped their shipments of tropical fruit in Manila, causing prices to slide. In a bid to attract new domestic clients, TUPAGGA in May attended the Inter-national Food Exposition (IFEX), an international food trade show in Manila, with assistance from the US Agency for International Development (USAID), in

partnership with the Depart-ment of Agriculture and the Mindanao Fruit Industry Council. USAID, through its Growth with Equity in Mind-anao (GEM) Program, which is implemented under the oversight of the Mindanao Development Authority, assists Mindanao growers’ cooperatives and associations to upgrade their production methods and post-handling techniques, while assisting them to identify lucrative domestic and export markets for their produce. “It was our fi rst time to attend a large trade show like IFEX, and we were looking for local buyers, thinking that the export market was beyond our capability,” said Ramon Mananasala, TU-PAGGA chairman. Th ese perceptions changed when a buyer from the Middle East visited the booth, and liked the sunrise variety of papaya he sampled. “It had the sweetness he was looking for, and has a good shelf life,” said Mr. Manansala. USAID-GEM had ear-lier provided the association with training on updated farming technologies and introduced co-op members to new papaya varieties, in-cluding sunrise. Aft er visiting TUPAGGA’s production area in Mindanao, the buyer placed an order for a trial shipment of papaya to Dubai, for almost triple the value the fruit would

have fetched on the domestic market. “When I informed the other members about the order, at fi rst they couldn’t believe it,” Mr. Manansala said. “Th ey had thought the export market was beyond their reach.” Th e IFEX show may have been its initial exposure to global buyers, but the as-sociation was prepared with its marketing strategy. For instance, it provided the walk-in buyer from the Middle East with informa-tion on production capabil-ity, invited him to visit the plantation in South Cotabato province, and was briefed on the comparative advan-tages of Mindanao growers: a typhoon-free climate year-round, as well as the potential to expand the production area. Th e group’s foray into the export market would not have been possible if the 25 farmers hadn’t organized themselves into an association, with support from USAID-GEM. This enabled them to synchronize their production and shipping schedules, and assured the buyer that his volume requirements would be met. TUPAGGA has proven that the export market for fruit is not exclusively the domain of contract growers and multinational fi rms. With the right skills and the right attitude, even small farmers can fi nd their market niche.

P474-M agriculture fund alloted for Northern SamarTHE Department of Ag-riculture (DA) is allotting P474 million to complete an irrigation project, con-struct farm-to-market roads (FMR) and implement other agricultural and livelihood projects in Northern Samar. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala made the commitment during his recent visit in Samar, where he also forged an agree-ment with Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Soliman to undertake a joint DA-DSWD initiative, dubbed as “Agrikulturang Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Pro-gram.” Of the total amount, Alcala said P209 million is earmarked as an addi-tional fund to complete the irrigation component of the Help for Catubig Agricultural Advancement Project (HCAAP). The HCAAP is expected to irrigate 4,550 hectares, and benefit more than 1,600 farm families in the towns of Catubig and Las Navas, in Northern Samar. It will double the prov-ince’s irrigated area to more than 9,000 hectares, from the current 4,500 hectares, and subsequently increase its annual palay (pady rice) production, from 98,300 metric tons (MT) in 2010. The irrigation project could generate an additional

harvest of about 40,950 MT, at two crops a year and an average harvest of 4.5 MT per hectare per cropping. Last year, Northern Sa-mar produced 98,380 MT of palay from 38,183 hect-ares, of which 88 percent is rainfed. The province contributed 10 percent to the total eastern Visayas palay harvest of 964,145MT in 2010. Alcala also allotted P230 million for the rehabilitation and construction of other irrigation projects, and P35 million for farm-to-market roads in Northern Samar. He said the DA will also provide counterpart fund to construct a modern rice processing complex in Ca-tubig Valley, along with a satellite office of the DA’s Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice). In addition, the DA, through the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), will construct a diversion dam in Barangay Guba, Catarman town, and implement an expanded modified rapid composting project in the province, as part of the DA’s organic agriculture program. Alca la commended DSWD Secretary Soli-man for the convergence initiative, called Agrikul-turang Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, to uplift

Eastern Visayas farmers, fishers and ruralfolk from poverty. It aims to enhance ag-ricultural productivity, and provide sustainable livelihood and short-term jobs to marginal families, particularly those engaged in rice, corn, coconut, and sugarcane production, and municipal fishing. The program will pursue three major tasks, namely: improve the agricultural productivity and income of marginal coconut farm families; construct paddy dikes, irrigation canals and service roads in un-developed or unutilized farmlands, and at the same time generate additional employment; and imple-ment livelihood projects to benefit marginal fisherfolk families. While in Samar, Secre-taries Alcala and Soliman led the awarding of sev-eral farm equipment, tools and inputs to hundreds of family-beneficiaries. From the DA, they re-ceived three units of hand tractors, 100 pieces of hand tools, and 100 bags of certi-fied rice seeds; and from the DSWD, two units of hand tractors, and livelihood proj-ect funds to three irrigators’ associations (Haremasan, Pinipisakan and Robasan) in Las Navas town.

Coop members trained on seaweed processing

By JANE CHRISTINE BALAYO and OMAR SABAL

KORONADAL City -- Fif-teen members of a coop-erative in Sarangani were trained on processing and value addition of seaweeds into income-generating products recently.

partment of Trade and In-dustry - Sarangani Province (DTI-SP) at the Municipal Hall of Alabel town, Saran-gani Province. The training was focused on the production of pickles, noodles, and chips, among others from seaweeds.

COOP/PAGE 13

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In a statement, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad said the early signing of the budget meant that government could immediately implement its programs and key infrastruc-ture projects even on the fi rst day of the New Year. “In contrast to 2011 when

Budget...from page 1

Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad, Yemen, Af-ghanistan, the Occupied Palestinian territory, Zim-babwe, Haiti, Niger, Ivory Coast, Central African Republic, Djibouti and the Philippines’ Mindanao. The total sum sought has fallen from 2011, how-ever, when the UN sought $7.9 billion. According to the UN,

UN...from page 1 The appeal also covers Sudan and the fledgling South Sudan, where fight-ing has plagued the border regions. Overall, the funds are to help some 51 million people. Other countries or districts included in the appeal include the

this may be due to “an easing of certain crises, and thus fewer people in need.” Two cases in point were Chad and Haiti. Co-ordination has also been improved, with overlaps eliminated, it added. Acknowledging that funding budgets were under strain due to the public debt crisis in the industrialized world, UN

aid chief Valerie Amos nevertheless urged mem-ber states to make an extra effort to help the most vulnerable. “This is a time of pres-sure on aid budgets,” she said. However, countries must “make the extraordi-nary political effort neces-sary to raise the resources needed to help people,” she added. – afp

pare the 2012 budget name-ly: Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte and the Department of Budget and Management.

infrastructure spending was delayed, we intend to begin 2012 on a very strong note,” Abad said. “The swiftness of the budget signing also means that the government can hit the ground running with its programs, starting with

key infrastructure projects. It also reinforces the Presi-dent’s commitment to his Social Contract with the Filipino people and under-scores our mission to ensure economic development and transparent government spending,” he said.

means of livelihood other than fishing. She said the partici-pants, majority of whom were women, were taught to maximize use of seaweeds which are commonly grown in the area. “This, in effect, is an opportunity to empower women who complement efforts with their fisherman-

Coop...from page 12

Jocelyn Romasanta, PHSs chief of the PHS, BFAR 12 technical staff and DTI counterparts said the training is to ensure that technologies were clearly and properly conveyed to the target recipients for them to develop and sustain

husbands,” Romasanta said. To ensure that benefi-ciaries sustain their opera-tion, BFAR 12 also awarded them with one unit noodle-making equipment. The participants per-sonally thanked BFAR 12 & DTI- SP for the support they had given to their group and for the knowledge they had gained in the lecture

and training. According to them, it was indeed a great help for them to have an additional job and income. Seaweeds is one of the municipal’s main product line and this is the reason why the government took the initiative to develop more products out of this commodity.

Nearly 600 dead, missing in Oro, Iligan flashfloods

A girl has the image of San Isidro Labrador left as her house was washed away by floods in Cagayan de Oro Friday. Typhoon Sendong left behind more than 200 dead in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities alone.

PHOTO BY SHAUN ALEJANDRAE YAP UY

TROPICAL storm “Sendong” (Washi) raked across the southern Philippines, unleashing mammoth floods across vast

areas that left 180 people dead and nearly 400 others missing, officials said Saturday.

the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said in Manila. Benito Ramos, the coun-cil’s executive director, sug-gested some residents had underestimated the threat posed by the approaching storm, in a region which is outside the country’s ty-phoon belt. “Storms rarely hit this area and people probably became complacent even though they knew it was heading their way,” Ramos said. Eric Carillo, an Iligan res-ident, said the rains started pouring heavily late Friday but his family, who emerged alive from the floods, were not unduly alarmed and did not seek higher ground. “I’ve been around for 47 years and this was the worst flooding I have ever experienced,” he added. Iligan tourism officer Pat Noel told AFP waters began rising shortly before mid-night (1600 GMT Friday) as people slept, sweeping

They said 20,000 sol-diers had been mobilised in a huge rescue and relief operation across the stricken north coast of the island of Mindanao, where the major ports of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan were worst hit. Iligan mayor Lawrence Cruz described rampaging floodwaters from swollen rivers that swamped up to a quarter of the land area of the city of 100,000. “It’s the worst flood in the history of our city,” Cruz told GMA television. “It hap-pened so fast, at a time when people were fast asleep.” The station showed dra-matic pictures of a family escaping out of the window of their home in the town as the floods rose, and rescue workers in orange vests shepherding survivors to safety above chest-deep

waters. Marlyn Manos, an Iligan resident, recounted how she and her children watched in terror from their rooftop as flash floods demolished neighbors’ homes. “All the small houses behind ours were destroyed, and many of my neighbors are missing,” she said. The region’s military spokesmen said 97 bodies were recovered in Cagayan de Oro, with another 75 bodies found in Iligan. In Iligan another 250 people remained unac-counted for, they said, with 125 people missing in Cagayan de Oro, a city of half a million people. T h re e p e opl e a l s o drowned in the town of Polanco and five were killed in a landslide in mountains near the town of Monkayo,

houses made of light mate-rials and their inhabitants along the riverbanks. “Many of them told me they sought refuge on their rooftops,” he said after join-ing the first wave of rescuers at daybreak. Two of the three rivers that flow into the port of Iligan had overflowed, he added, and a popular radio commentator was among those killed. Weather forecasters said the eye of the storm passed close to the southern tip of the central island of Negros on Saturday morning. It was expected to hit the western island of Pala-wan on Saturday night after crossing the Sulu Sea, with peak winds of 75 miles (46.6 miles) an hour, the state weather service said. President Benigno Aqui-no III rushed to Camp Agui-naldo in Quezon City Sat-urday morning to convene the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Manage-ment Council, presidential

spokesperson Abigail Valte said. “President Aquino has directed secretaries Dinky

Soliman and Jesse Robredo to render all the assistance needed,” Valte said.--Inter-Aksyon

MinDA to launch MindaNOW: Nurturing Our Waters Program on January 2012By JENNIFER P. GAITANO event while a simultane-

ous regional launching of said program will also be conducted in each region in Mindanao that will be highlighted by a tree-planting activity in priority of the watershed areas. Luwalhati also said that the program pro-motes twin thrusts toward Mindanao’s sustainable economic development namely: “economic and ecological integration” and “inclusive wealth creation”.

BUTUAN City -- The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is set to launch its flagship program dubbed “Mind-aNOW: Nurturing Our Waters Program” on Janu-ary 2012 at the Kaamu-lan Grounds, Maramag, Bukidnon, Misamis Ori-ental. In a press statement, MinDA Sec. Luwalhati Antonino bared that Pres-ident Benigno S. Aquino III is expected to grace the

The Ecological In-tegration is anchored on planning Mindanao’s sustainable development based on its rich ecosys-tems and it takes cog-nizance of the carrying capacity of the environ-ment and natural resource base. This program is in sup-port to the Millennium Development Goal and Philippine Development Plan of the Aquino ad-ministration specifically

on Climate Change Ad-aptation and Mitigation. Luwalhati further said that among the key strate-gies of the program is the massive education and information campaign involving dissemination of posters, brochures and other IEC materials about the MindaNOW Program. “This is to raise con-sciousness among the Mindanao constituen-cies about environment issues, challenges and

what MInDA and other government agencies, lo-cal government units, the civil society and non-gov-ernment organizations, donor agencies as well as the private and business sectors intend to do to address these through the MindaNOW Program,” Luwalhati added. MIndaNOW Program is an integrated set of de-velopment interventions anchored on sustainable development framework

that aims to integrate, harmonize and ratio-nalize plans, programs, policies, mechanisms and processes related to the utilization, development, protection and conserva-tion of the watersheds and riverbasins. Sec. Luwalhati is call-ing on to the public to support and participate in the activities and initia-tives of the MIndaNOW Program in their different regions in Mindanao.

14 BusinessWeekDec. 19-22, 2011

15BusinessWeekMINDANAO Dec. 19-22, 2011BillboardsBillboards

Pryce Plaza HotelCarmen Hill, CDO, Tel. No.722791 to93/858-4537

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VIP HotelA.Velez St. CDO, Tel. No. 726080 / 726590 / 856-2505

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De Luxe HotelCapt. V. Roa St. CDO, Tel. No. 726527 /857-2144

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Grand City HotelA.Velez- Sts. CDO

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Country Village HotelCarmen, Cag. de Oro Tel. No. 71-22-03, 71-22-01, 7122-05

Southwinds HotelCapt. V. Roa Sts.CDO,Tel. No. 727623 / 724803 / 856-2036

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Apple Tree Resort and HotelTaboc, Opol, Misamis Oriental,

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1st One Mindanao Scout Jamboree in Pagadian City, Zambo Sur last 22-27 Novem-ber 2011. In this photos are BSP-CDO Council Chairman Anthony O. Brellita, Council Scout Executive Rudy G. Guligado, Council Board Member Mr. Honie A. Ranario with scouts and scouters from different private and public schools of Cagayan de Oro City.

Globe powers Australia’s largest Pinoy fiestaGLOBE Telecom, in part-nership with Australian te l e c om g i ant O ptus , joined the Filipino com-munity in down under in celebrating the 23rd Sydney Fiesta Kultura, held last October 2 at the Fairfield Showground in Prariewood, New South Wales. The all-day Filipino fiesta, organized by the Philippine Australia Sports and Culture (PASC), is the biggest and most-attended Filipino event in Australia. An estimated 20,000 Fili-pinos attended the fiesta, which was headlined by Giselle Sanchez and Sam Milby. The fiesta also show-cased the Optus-PPS-Globe Kababayan Card, the most affordable prepaid card for

calls to the Philippines. At just A$10, Aussie-based Filipinos can call any Globe or TM number in the Phil-ippines for 60 minutes of unabated talk time with their loved-ones. “Globe has been a partner of PASC for sev-eral years now as we aim to give Australia-based Filipinos a slice of what they’re missing in the Phil-ippines. We’re very happy that through the Optus-PPS-Globe Kababayan Card, we are able to help loved-ones stay connected no matter where they are,” said Rizza Maniego-Eala, Group Head for Interna-tional Business of Globe Telecom. An estimated 200,000 Filipinos live and work

in Australia. The number increases each year with Australia being one of the leading destinations of migrant Filipinos and the Philippines being Australia’s biggest source of foreign workers in Southeast Asia. Globe has the widest international coverage, with

partnerships with more than 600 roaming partners from all over the world. Globe also has strategic partner-ships with several telecom service providers abroad for special call products to the Philippines, ranging from prepaid call cards to SIM cards.

TO provide assistance to those affected by tropical storm Sendong in Cagayan De Oro, Smart Communi-cations, Inc. (Smart) im-mediately set up Libreng Tawag stations in evacuation centers. Sendong (international name Washi) dumped heavy rains over Cagayan De Oro and nearby areas overnight, triggering flash floods in several localities. Amidst reports of the growing number of casualties and flood waters submerging houses and trapping resi-dents, the local government and emergency units have led affected residents to various evacuation centers.

Libreng Tawag stations were set up as early as Satur-day morning in evacuation centers of hard-hit areas like barangay Macasandig and in Smart’s office in ba-rangay Carmen. Additional free calls facilities are also being put up by the telco in other typhoon-hit areas to provide communication and

Smart serves flood-affected Mindanaofree phone charging services to affected residents.

“We step up efforts to serve the public especially in crucial times like this,” said Ramon Isberto, head of Smart’s Public Affairs. “It is our duty to keep af-fected residents connected to their loved ones and to assist the local government and emergency response teams in their coordination through our continuous service.”

Smart’s network offi-cials maintain that network facilities continue to be operational in areas affected by the typhoon. Standard preparations for typhoons include the deployment of response teams and equip-ment, as well as the storage of back-up fuel to keep Smart’s cell sites up and running in the event of any power outage.

“Employees based in the region are already being deployed to aff ected areas to assess the situation and to respond to the needs of

the residents. We are now mobilizing our people and partners and gathering re-sources to distribute aid in hard-hit areas as soon as possible,” Isberto said.

Smart subscribers all over the country are meanwhile encouraged to send help to those aff ected by typhoon Sendong. Smart Money users can instantly transfer funds through their mobile phones to the official Baha Fund account number 5577 5130 6822 1104. Donors may also

deposit cash to the same Smart Money account number in any Banco De Oro branch nationwide or through Hapi-noy and Cebuana Lhuillier outlets.

Smart subscribers may also send their fi nancial help to the Philippine Red Cross through text. To donate, cell-phone users should send RED <AMOUNT> to 4143. Valid donation amounts are 10, 25, 50 and 100 and will be charged to the subscriber’s prepaid load or postpaid bill. [END]

Baungon empty down into the Cagayan de Oro seas. Th e Governor quickly or-dered the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Manage-ment Council (PDRRMC) to conduct rapid Damage Analysis and Needs Assessment (DANA) in Baungon, Bukidnon. Arsenio Alagenio, PDRRMC

Sendong...from page 2 Gov. Calingasan added that it is impossible to get across to the other roadside because the end-to-end distance of the two swelled up rivers span up to an average of 80 meters. Th ese two major rivers in

Executive Officer, said the DANA report showed Php15 million damage in Tumalaong Bridge and approaches. “Th e damage in the Cabula Bridge is yet to be established because it’s hard to reach the area as light rains continue to pour rendering some portions of Baungon roads impassable,”

he added. He further explained that the initial damage cost estimate for crops and other agricultural properties is not available pend-ing their fi eld assessment. Alagenio also reported that “Sendong” ruined four (4) other bridges in the town’s interior villages, including the Calag Bridge in north Bukidnon. Engr. Honorato Saldua of the Bukidnon 3rd Engineering District, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) also said they are now closely coordinating with the Bukid-non provincial government in an eff ort to install a Bailey Panel in one of the damaged spillways, which would serve as temporary access point to reach the ‘isolated’ Baungon town. “This is urgent because Baungon has no electric power since early Friday evening until this Sunday morning,” Engr. Saldua said. With this, the provincial government’s PDRRMC, Philip-pine Red Cross, DPWH, PNP, Philippine Army, and other concerned branches of the government, including multi-lateral donors join hands in the relief operations. (pia 10, bukidnon)

16 BusinessWeekMINDANAODec. 19-22, 2011

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