‘sinadya sa ciudad’ on aug. 25 iloilo: a city that bloomed · pdf file80th iloilo...

By Ben Jimena

(This article was published in The Daily Guardian in 2011 when the author was still city tourism office chief)

THERE are two schools of thought for the date of the celebration of the Iloilo City charter day – one that adheres to the “creation” and another one that follows the “inaugura-tion” principle.

According to the late Rex Salvilla, the “creation” propo-nent, the date when the charter document was signed is more significant than the day it was first celebrated.

On the other hand, Iloilo Board Member Demy Sonza, the “inauguration” advocate, has cited the “established his-torical practice to reckon the birth of a government unit on the date it was formally inaugu-rated and its officials inducted into office”.

Two respected historians with two different views.

Iloilo City has two known charters – one issued by the Queen Regent of Spain in 1890 and the other was Com-

monwealth Act 158 during the American regime in 1937.

The creation date of the Spanish charter was October 5, 1889, and the American charter was July 16, 1937.

The inauguration dates were February 7, 1890 and August 25, 1937, respectively. Today, we are celebrating Charter Day on August 25.

(August 25, 2017 marks the seventh time that the American charter is being commemo-rated, a practice initiated by Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog in 2010 - Editor)

Unlike in other localities in the country, we never had a yearly celebration of the charter or foundation day, except in 2003, when the City Council passed Resolution 2003-120 for the celebration of the 113th anniversary of the February 7 charter.

It was not explained how the commemoration came to be. It was not known whose idea was it to resurrect public interest in the charter 13 years after its centennial in 1990. Perhaps a case of history taken for granted.

IlOIlO, a paradise of rare beauty and wonders, nests the Ilonggos color-ful tradition and culture. Behind the

streets you walk, behind the architectures you see, and behind the smiles of the Ilonggos, there is a rich history waiting to be uncovered. In 1889, the Queen Regent of Spain bestowed upon us the title “The Most loyal and Noble City”, up until now we have lived up to that honor by achieving the recent title, “Most livable City”.

One can’t talk about Iloilo without men-tioning the Ilonggo cuisine. With the heavy influence of the Spaniards and a dash of creativity from the Ilonggos, Pancit Molo and lapaz Batchoy were born. Every bowl of steamy goodness will make you feel like you are living in the past and present at the same time. If you have a sweet tooth, you just have to listen to the sound of the vendor man shouting “Bayi-bayi!” to have a taste of Iloilo’s delicacy. If you’re a guest of an

Ilonggo, he will take you to Tatoy’s Ma-nokan and Seafood Restaurant or Camiña Balay na Bato not only to enjoy good food, but also to have a glimpse of the past.

“The entrance to Iloilo is beautiful. From afar can be seen the white city in wa-ter, a nymph of galvanized iron, a modern creation, poetry in spirit of its iron uni-form” – Jose Rizal’s description of Iloilo is a testament to the beautiful architectures

My city/p4

Karla De La Paz (front, 2nd from left) with the 11 other participants of the Iloilo City Tourism and Development Office’s 80th Charter Day Essay Writing Contest held Aug. 18, 2017 at Robinsons Jaro.

By Karla D. De la Paz*

(Editor’s Note: The 80th Charter Day anniversary celebration of Iloilo City is not just a trip down memory lane. It is also an inspiration for a better future hinged to the fast developing present. And there is no better way of divining the future than prying the minds of the youth on how they envision the city. This special section is dedicated to the young Ilonggos who immortalize history, celebrate the present and hope for a brighter future through written words.)

KARlA De la Paz of UP High School won the 80th Charter Day Essay Writing Contest held Aug. 18, 2017 at Robinsons Jaro.

De la Paz is among the 12 students from public and private high schools in the city who joined the contest organized by the Iloilo City Tourism and Development Office.

The activity was a venue for high school students to express their ideas on the significance of the city’s 80th Charter Day celebration.

With the theme “Celebrating 80 years of Ilonggo Culture and Pride”, the participants expressed how the city evolved as a metropolis until it became a highly urbanized city, which is also considered most livable city in the country.

The essays were judged based on Mechanics, 20 percent; Orga-nization, 30 percent; Content, 40 percent; and Style, 10 percent.

De la Paz received P4, 000. Other winners received P3, 000 (2nd place) and P2, 000 (3rd place) and P500 consolation prize.

Iloilo: A City that Bloomed through Time

FOR the first time and in a move to make the 80th Iloilo City Charter Day parade colorful and livelier, the City Government stages today a street dancing competition dubbed “Sinadya sa Ciudad: A Choreographed Street Dancing Contest”.

The participating groups will showcase their talent in a carousel-type parade around downtown with three judging areas at Freedom Grandstand at JM Basa, in front of Postal Bank at Iznart Street, and corner Rizal-Ortiz Street, City Proper.

M a y o r J e d P a t r i c k Mabilog commended the participating groups for ac-tively supporting the street dancing competition.

“I hope that while we make this 80th Charter Day celebration lively and enjoy-able, this will also promote the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participants,” said Mabilog.

led by the City Tour-ism and Development Of-fice, the contest is divided into the following: Category A - Department of Educa-

tion (DepEd) Division of Iloilo City; Category B - City Hall employees; Category C - local Government Units (lGUs), National Govern-ment Agencies (NGAs), Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) of city’s seven districts , Civic Clubs Associations, Civil Society Organizations, Business Cor-poration and Companies, and Private Schools.

In the continuous street dancing performance, par-ticipants have three-minute special presentation includ-ing entrance and exit in front of three judging areas.

Criteria for judging in-clude choreography and synchronization – 40 per-cent; skills and mastery – 30 percent; and props and costumes, and music – 15 percent each.

Prizes for Categories A, B, and C are P35,000 – first; P25,000 – second; and P15,000 – third; and two consolation prizes of P5,000 each.

Winners of Best in Cho-reography, Music, and Cos-tume will receive P5,000 each.

UP High School tops essay contest

‘Sinadya sa Ciudad’on Aug. 25

Photo courtesy of Iloilo Drone Photography

My city is my responsibilityiloilo/p10

80th Iloilo City Charter DayFriday, August 25, 2017

80th Iloilo City Charter Day uardianthe dailyG Western Visayas Most

Read and RespectedC2 Friday, August 25, 2017

By maricyn a. De los santos

Photos By ricKy D. aleJo

Residents of Iloilo City and neighboring towns were offered 4,103 jobs in the 80th Charter Day Jobs Fair held at Robinsons Jaro, Aug. 24, 2017.

Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and PESO Man-ager Kooky Benitez led the opening ceremonies, which was also graced by labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, with Department of labor and Employment (DOlE)-6 Regional Director Johnson G. Canete and Assistant Regional Director Salome Siaton.

In his message, Bello lauded the city government for continuously and proactively gathering stakeholders in the metro to provide livelihood and employment opportunities for the Ilonggos.

Per DOlE record, 948 of the jobs available were for local employment, 2,500 for overseas and 655 for business process outsourcing.

Mabilog, on his part, sees the jobs fair an event that befits

the 80th Charter Day celebration. “In this year’s Charter Day celebration, there is no other

meaningful celebration than to provide job opportunities for our people here in the city of Iloilo,” he stressed.

The mayor reiterated: “More jobs translate to (improved) peace and order, and when there is peace and order (in the community), it attracts more investments and visitors to come to the city of Iloilo. With more investments, the number of job opportunities is multiplied and the cycle continues.”

He attributed the successful job generation program of the city government through the Public Employment Services Office (PESO) to the “dynamic partnership of public and private sectors, including the academe, in Iloilo.” He also lauded the support of DOlE-6 to the jobs fair, particularly by inviting the participating companies.

Mabilog cited the economic contributions of business process outsourcing (BPO) firms in the metro.

“You are providing 25,000 seats in the city of Iloilo. Which means, 25,000 families, more or less, have food in their table because of your presence. Madamu gid nga

salamat sa pagpili sa syudad sang Iloilo as your venue to put up your BPO centers in this part of the country,” Mabilog said.

The mayor also cited as one best practice of the city the holding of the jobs fair in malls to reach more jobseekers. “Jobs fairs in malls started in Iloilo City in 2003, and it is now replicated in other parts of the country,” Mabilog said.

The mayor urged jobseekers to take advantage of the job opportunities available in the metro, instead of leaving their families to work abroad or in other highly urbanized cities in the country such as Cebu and Metro Manila.

He encouraged stakeholders to continue supporting the city government, as well as help the Ilonggos who are in need to further improve the quality of life of the Ilonggos.“If we continue to unite and help each other, and provide opportunities there will be more people that will have more food in their table, there will be more children in school, and we will have more homes, and we will have more peaceful and better life in this part of the country,” Mabilog said.

THE Iloilo City Tourism and Development Office held an on-the-spot poster making contest Aug. 18 at Robinsons Place Jaro.

With the theme “Celebrating 80 years of Ilonggo Culture and Pride”, the participants showcased the city’s gains in the last 80 years.

Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said the activity was a venue for pupils to express their ideas,

4,103 jobs offered in Charter Day jobs fair

laBOr Secretary Silvestre Bello III (3rd from left) receives a plaque of appreciation from the Iloilo City Government in the opening program of the 80th Charter Day Jobs Fair held at Robinsons Jaro, Aug. 24, 2017. Also in photo are (from left) Councilors Liezl Joy Zulueta-Salazar and Mandrei Malabor, Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, DOLE-6 regional director Johnson Canete and PESO Iloilo City manager Kooky Benitez. (Ricky D. Alejo)

Poster-Making tilt highlights 80 years of Ilonggo culture

skills, and talents on the sig-nificance of the celebration and how the city has evolved into a highly urbanized city.

Public and private elemen-tary schools in the metropolis joined the contest.

The works were judged based on originality, style and creativity which comprised 40 percent; interpretation and relevance to the theme is also 40 percent; and presentation and neatness is 20 percent of the total criteria.

The champion received P4,000, second placer – P3,000 and third placer – P2,000 plus certificate of recognition each. (Iloilo City PIO)

1st Prize: Milka Shanz Pelingon, Hua Siong College of Iloilo2nd Prize: Franzene Jae Nobleza, Ticud Elementary School

3rd Prize: Lexchel Revalis, A. Bonifacio Integrated Schoo

By cornelius tagBanwa

THE streets of Iloilo City are witnesses to its old grandeur and serves as testimonies to its mod-ern progress. Even the concrete pavements, potholes and uneven surfaces of the streets are parts of the city’s history.

There are many interesting things to see from this Most Noble City. I believe the city’s street names—almost unchanged, largely unnoticed—are part of it since it reflects the history and progress of city and the people living here right now.

So, because school starts in a few weeks, please get out your pens and paper and let’s discuss our new lesson for this moment: Calle 101.

1. Calle Sto. RosarioSanto Rosario Street is the old-

est street in Iloilo, and it certainly shows: the old Spanish-era houses lining the street gives you a feel of the old city’s charm.

The street was originally con-structed to connect Plaza Alfonso XII (now Plaza libertad) to Fuerza del Santo Rosario (now Fort San Pedro). It was where the grand procession took place when the Spaniards carried the image of Santo Rosario in celebration of their victory over the Dutch in 1616.

2. Calle IznartIznart Street is named after Gov.

Manuel Iznart, a former Capitan del Barrio of Iloilo in the 1860s. Currently, Iznart is home to the city’s Filipino-Chinese commu-

Calle 101: How Iloilo City streets got their names

calle 101/p11

Republic of the PhilippinesHouse of Representatives

Quezon City

I extend my warmest felicitation to the people and leadership of Iloilo City on its 80th Charter

Anniversary. The growth of the city is also important to the province of Iloilo as both can be considered as siblings. Twenty years from now, we will celebrate the centenary of the City of Iloilo and we will surely reach greater heights by then. We look forward to working together with the City of Iloilo towards a progressive, sustainable, and liveable community. More power to the City of Iloilo! Mabuhay ang Ilonggo!

Hon. FERJEnEL G. BIRon, MDRepresentative

4th District of Iloilo

Hon. BRYAnT PAUL Q. BIRonBoard Member

Province of Iloilo

Hon. BRAEDEn JoHn Q. BIRonMayor

Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo

Republic of the PhilippinesOffice of the Mayor

Municipality of Barotac NuevoProvince of Iloilo

I t is with much pride and honor that we join the people of Iloilo City in celebrating its 80th Charter

Day. This meaningful and historical event will inspire every Ilonggo to work harder to sustain what we have gained and build a more progressive and peaceful community. The people of Barotac Nuevo will always offer a helping hand to the City of Iloilo in achieving our common goals of sustainable development and genuine service. More power and Mabuhay!

Republic of the PhilippinesSangguniang Panlalawigan

Province of Iloilo

T h e people of the 4th district of Iloilo prov-ince and our family join the people of Iloilo

City in celebrating its 80th Charter Anniversary.

This celebration does not only take us back to our roots as Ilonggos but also serves as a guide to a more progressive and sustainable future. The province of Iloilo is more than willing to partner with our counterparts in the City of Iloilo in trailblazing promising and bright tomor-row for all Ilonggos. Mabuhay ang Iloilo! Mabuhay ang Ilonggo!

My city... from p.1



ADVISORY

In line with Secretary Roy A. Cimatu’s marching order to implement environmental laws such as the Clean Air Act (R.A. 8749), the Clean Water Act (R.A. 9275) and the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (R.A. 9003), and to be vigilant in protecting and conserving our natural resources, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has an on-going inventory of all forest occupants in Western Visayas.

Our forestlands are vital sources of food and provide the natural resources humans need such as timber, fuel, paper and medicinal plants. Forests also serve as carbon sink thereby mitigating effects of climate change and lessen soil erosion while providing water supply, to mention a few.

The presence of Illegal Forest Occupants (IFOs) within the government declared forestlands has presented threats to forests’ ability to continue as a supplier of goods and services. Thus, the DENR in Western Visayas is calling the attention of all illegal forest occupants.

Section 51 of Presidential Decree 705, also known as the Revised Forestry Code, provides that: Any occupancy in forestland which will result in sedimentation, erosion, reduction in water yield and impairment of other resources to the detriment of community and public interest shall not be allowed.

The DENR is issuing this advisory to inform in advance those identified IFOs that the DENR will impose the full force of the law as provided under PD 705. Moreover, they are advised to closely coordinate with their respective DENR–Community ENR Offices to avail of proper information and guidance as to their status over the government area that they are illegally occupying. Their continued disregard of the environmental laws might result to their facing criminal liabilities as a consequence./DENR 6

JIM O SAMPULNA, Ph. D., CESO IIIRegional Director

DEParTMENT OF ENVIrONMENTaND NaTUral rESOUrCESDoña Pepita Aquino Street, Port Area, Iloilo City

THE Iloilo City government stepped up its blood donation program to ensure steady and year-round supply of blood for the Ilonggos.

The city government represented by Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Department of Educa-tion (DepEd)-Division of Iloilo City, Philippine Red Cross (PRC)-Iloilo Chapter and Department of Health (DOH6) for the monthly conduct of voluntary blood-letting activity for Grade 12 students and DepEd-Iloilo City teachers starting August 2017.

Per MOA, the city government will shoulder the processing fee for the blood donation through the Iloilo City Social Fund.

The teachers and the Grade 12 students who want to donate blood will be tested first for HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.

The MOA provides that the city gov-ernment will assist in the blood donation, coordinate with PRC, allocate funds for blood screening tests, keep records of blood donors, and keep track of the amount of blood withdrawn by residents from the blood bank, among others.

DepEd, on its part, is tasked to lead the voluntary blood-letting program, prioritize the conduct of blood-letting during “Dengue Months” from June to October for the continuity of blood sup-ply; and encourage the Parents-Teachers Associations to actively participate in the recruitment of voluntary blood donors.

PRC, on its part, is tasked to assist the city and DepEd in the conduct of the blood-letting activity; store blood bags; facilitate disposal of blood; advo-cate blood donation in schools, among others.

On its part, the DOH is tasked to provide additional funds for the conduct of voluntary blood donation and provide IEC materials for advocacy.

Meanwhile, the City Health Office launched the “I love You Todo-Todo Halin sa Tiil Hasta sa Ulo Para sa mga Ilonggo,” a toe-to-head health programs and services.

Dr. Bernard Caspe, CHO chief, said the City Government offers consultation and at the same time provide assistance for free for residents if they have prob-lems or feel anything bad from their toes to head.

ElEVEN detainees of Iloilo City District Jail in Barangay Ungka, Jaro district tied the knot with their partners inside the jail facility through a mass wedding recently.

Organized by the Iloilo City government through the Red ladies, the mass wedding is initiated for detainees and their partners who completed all the requirements needed for their wedding, according to Jail Su-perintendent Vicente Papelera, head of Iloilo City District Jail-Ungka.

Papelera said through the mass wedding, the husbands or wives of detainees would not find it hard to visit them inside the jail facility even on Sundays.

“Before, the detainees’ part-ners could not easily visit them because they are not yet mar-ried. So we want to make it legal every time they visit, that is why we have this mass wed-ding and we are very thankful to the city government, especially Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog for sponsoring this mass wedding,” added Papelera.

The detainees also undergo tree planting activity at Baran-gay Calajunan, Mandurriao dis-trict as part of the requirements for mass wedding.

Forty five-year-old “Cathy”, not her real name, thanked the city government and Mabilog for initiating the mass wed-ding.

“My partner and I have been

Iloilo City steps up blood drive, health programs

11 couples tie knot in jail

A run through the dates gathered from several histori-cal sources reveal that a Royal Decree creating the City of Iloilo was issued by Queen Regent Maria Cristina of Spain on June 7, 1889. But in Atty. Salvilla’s newspaper column, “Anything Under the Sun”, he put a different date on October 5, 1889. We need to clarify this and probably people in the know may just help validate the dates.

The law establishing the Ayuntamiento (City Council or City Hall) otherwise known as the Becerra law (named after Manuel Becerra, Spanish Minister of Overseas Colonies; but some sources spelled it

Bacera) was promulgated on November 12, 1889; a Supe-rior Decree implementing the Royal Order and the Becerra law was issued on January 21, 1890; and on “February 7, 1890, Governor General Valeriano Wyler, in a solemn and joyous ceremonies, inau-gurated the City of Iloilo and installed into office its first city officials headed by Don Tirso lizarraga as Alcalde or City Mayor, (with) Don Sabino Ordaz and Don Esteban de la Rama as Vice-Mayors... and nine (9) councilors.”

Following the line of reason-ing of Hon. Sonza, the City of Iloilo should deem February 7 as its Charter day. But that was only half of the charter story. The other half would lead us

to August 25.In 1903, the government

under the Americans ordered the reversion of Iloilo City to the status of a municipal-ity and merged with it the adjoining towns of Molo and Mandurriao. At that time, the economy of the country as a whole and that of Iloilo City in particular, were heav-ily devastated by the Revolu-tion against Spain and the Filipino-American war; hence the merger was necessary for more efficient and economical governance.

It was not until the Com-monwealth period when Iloilo regained its status as a City. Congress passed Common-wealth Act No. 57 establish-ing a form of government for

the City of Iloilo on October 20, 1936. But this was soon amended on November 8, 1936, by Commonwealth Act No. 158 which expanded the City’s jurisdiction by annex-ing the towns of la Paz and Arevalo. Jaro was attached later on August 22, 1940, with the enactment of Commonwealth Act No. 604.

In the book, Historical landmarks and Monuments authored by Professors Henry Funtecha and Melanie Padilla, they wrote that Common-wealth Act 158 was signed into a law on July 16, 1937, and the inaugural ceremony was held August 25, 1937. The inaugu-ration took place forty days later waiting for the appoint-ment of a permanent Mayor

and the availability of then President Manuel l. Quezon to attend the ceremony. But for some unknown reasons, the President did not come; only Vice President Sergio Osmeña and Secretary of In-teriors Elpidio Quirino graced the occasion.

The inaugural parade route in 1937 was from the Iloilo Provincial Capitol in Boni-facio Drive to Iznart Street, J.M. Basa Street towards Pla-za libertad, Rizal Street, Ma-bini Street, ledesma Street, Rizal Estanzuela, and Infante Street up to the review stand in Delgado Street in front of the Ayuntamiento. The City Hall then is now the Main Building of the UP Visayas in Molo. 11 couples/p10

80th Iloilo City Charter Dayuardianthe dailyG Western Visayas Most

Read and Respected C5Friday, August 25, 2017

Photos courtesy of mary Joy raPaDas anD aJ moscoso

THE Iloilo City Gov-ernment hosted the 4th Baby and Mom Expo

2017 Aug. 17-18 at Robinsons Place in celebration of 80th Charter Day.

The project was initiated by Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog in 2014.

“This is an annual activity started four years ago which aims to value the relationship of mothers with their babies and at the same time help the babies to have closer relationship with their mothers,” said Mabilog.

Iloilo City holdsBaby & Mom Expo4th The City Health Office (CHO) conducted the Search for the Star Baby 2017 in the morning of Aug. 17 with 13 finalists aged one to two years old chosen from 38 applicants during the screening process.

The participants are recipi-ents of immunization program given by CHO.

The criteria for judging in-cluded personality and charm – 50 percent, smartness and stage presence – 40 percent, and audience impact – 10 percent.

The Search for Mother and Child 2017 “Mini-Mi” Con-test was held in the afternoon of the same day with 12 pair contestants.

Participants were judged in their production number, talent competition and formal attire.

The Baby Expo: The Power of First 1,000 Days Aug. 18 is divided into two categories

– The Best Baby Crawling Contest and The Best Zumbini Dance Contest.

The first 1,000 days refer to the day one since the pregnancy started until the baby reaches two years old.

Babies aged 9 to 11 months old joined the Best Baby Crawl-ing while those aged one to two years old joined the Best Zum-bini Dance. (Iloilo City PIO)



Photos By ricKy aleJo

WITNESS the streets of Iloilo City transformed into a mirage of colors as floats of businesses, national government agencies, local government units, tertiary

schools, civic clubs and associations, and civil society organiza-tions join in today’s 80th Charter Day parade.

“The float competition was organized because there are com-panies who would like to make a float in order to show how sup-portive they are to the programs of the City Government. At the same time, we initiated this to add more colors to the Charter Day event,” said Junel Ann Divinagracia, City Tourism and Develop-ment Office (CTDO) head.

Divinagracia said the less-than-five-meter floats conform to the Charter Day celebration’s theme, “Celebrating 80 years of Ilonggo Culture and Pride.”

Its designs should incorporate or depict identifiable Ilonggo culture and icons such as the iconic and heritage buildings or

By Jezza nePomoceno

A VOlUNTEER worker who did not finish college won the 2017 Ang Ilongga Awards or the Search for Outstanding Woman Community leader of Junior Chamber International (JCI)-Iloilo Ilang-Ilang.

Forty-four-year-old Gemma Moquete, an undergraduate of Bachelor of Science in Elemen-tary Education of De Paul Col-lege in Jaro, Iloilo City, is the second woman leader to get the award since the search began two years ago.

Serving as federation presi-dent of Kalipunan ng lip-ing Pilipina, women’s grass-roots organization based in the coastal town of Concepcion, Moquete was nominated for the second time in the search.

She bested eight other nomi-nees in the search after she got a rating of 94.6% during the panel interview held in Casa Real de Iloilo on June 9 and during the field validation held in Concepcion on July 8.

“I was really surprised when my name was called. I never expected it,” she said adding that her win showed that an ordinary woman could accom-plish extraordinary things and one does not need a degree to be an effective leader in the community.

Moquete started volunteer-ing in 2002 as Barangay Health

Charter Dayfloats to parade in city streets today

Undergrad wins Ang Ilongga Award 2017

undergrad/p11

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ISUZU Philippines Corporation (IPC) par-ticipated in the 2017 Transport and logistics Philippines, Aug. 17-19, 2017 at the SMX

Convention Center in Pasay City.The authority on diesel-powered trucks and

utility vehicles showcased three models from their existing line-up – the FVM34 with 32-feet Fruehauf Wing Van body, the EXR5IF tractor head and the EXZ5IK tractor head.

Isuzu has been a part of the annual supply hub in the country since 2015. Since then, it consistently participated in the event aimed to tap the transport and logistics sector, which is the market for their light, medium and heavy-duty trucks.

This year, IPC participated as one of the major sponsors for the expo, making it their second time to extend partnership since it first joined the event in 2015.

IPC President Hajime Koso underscored the growth of economy in the increasing numbers of industry players. “The rise of both the con-ventional market and e-commerce has produced exciting numbers for budding and established

industry players,” Koso said.“Such results would lead to the further de-

velopment of the transport and logistics center, making all stakeholders benefit from this,” he added.

The IPC chief said the firm is looking forward that the event would continue for the years to come and vowed to be part of the transport and lo-gistics expo as it is a great avenue to all concerned stakeholders where possible clienteles meet.

“Events like these provide the much-needed assistance to the buyers, an additional boost on opportunities for industry giants and level the playing field for the new entrants,” he ex-plained.

The 2017 Transport and logistics Philippines is a trade show for supply chain solutions, and has been growing steadily as the needs of the market continuously increases. Buyers can keep themselves up-to-date on the latest products, equipment, and solutions that is set to keep their businesses ahead of the competition.

To get more details on Isuzu’s diesel-powered truck line-up, log at www.isuzuphil.com.

supports 2017 Transport, Logistics Expo

IsuzuPhilippines

that stood in the city. Calle Real, Jaro Cathedral,

and Old Provincial Capital, all of these have surpassed lifetimes that even us, present Ilonggos, can still appreciate their exis-tence. Our ancestors may not have witnessed the wonders of today’s infrastructures like River Esplanade, Megaworld, and Atria, but they have Plaza libertad, Fort San Pedro Rotary Park, and Plaza Molo to make up for these losses. Today, we are blessed to have seen the best of both worlds. At the end of the day, when you walk along Diversion bridge, you will see

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the distinct “Iloilo Sunset” that only we can enjoy.

Ilonggos are naturally happy people. We love merrymaking as much as we love our religion. Every January, Dinagyang is anticipated by Ilonggos and tourists alike. Also, Ilonggos’ hearts swell up with pride at the mention of the names of Graciano lopez Jaena and Miriam Defensor-Santiago. These Ilonggos have prov-en that treasure the values of our ancestors because Miriam showed the same courage that lopez Jaena had when the for-mer ran for presidency during the 2016 elections and when the latter helped fought for our

sovereignty.Our culture is a legacy to the

succeeding generations. It is our inheritance to be proud of and pass on to our children and children’s children. Keeping our culture and city alive keeps our integrity as Ilonggos. No matter what, our culture should be practiced between genera-tions for it is the vessel of the important knowledge that our forefathers have left us.

*Karla D. De La Paz, a stu-dent of UP High School, is the First Place winner of the Iloilo City Tourism and Development Office’s 80th Charter Day Essay Writing Contest held Aug. 18, 2017 at Robinsons Jaro.

together for 14 years and we are very thankful to Mayor Mabilog for initiating this matrimony be-cause our children can now use their father’s last name,” said Cathy, a resident of Barangay Rizal Palapala, City Proper.

Cathy’s husband was ar-rested a year ago for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2004.

She also vowed to remain

faithful to her husband even if the latter is detained inside the jail.

“Even before I married him, I am already faithful. I can as-sure him that I will still remain faithful and I will wait for him to be released,” she said.

Meanwhile, couple “Anna” and “Nonoy” both believed that incarceration is not a hindrance to tie the knot.

“When you love someone, you are willing to do everything and sacrifice for that person. For

my part, I love him (Nonoy) and I am willing to wait for him outside,” said 35-year-old Anna who is a resident of Barangay Bakhaw, Mandurriao district.

Anna and Nonoy are in a relationship for more than a year.

Nonoy promised to change for Anna.

“Before, I am really useless, but now, I am willing to change just for her,” said Nonoy who was arrested for allegedly selling illegal drugs. (Iloilo City PIO)

structures; industry such as hablon weaving; food like batchoy; festivals; attractions like Esplanade; a tableau of rep-resentations of Ilonggo person-alities such as former mayors and successful individuals; and depiction of a period in city’s history from American era up

to the present.The parade will be made

livelier with the music in the 1980s played in floats, ac-companied by dancing par-ticipants.

Witness these colorful floats at Freedom Grandstand go-ing to J.M. Basa Street, Iznart Street, Capitol, Valeria Street, ledesma Street, Plazoleta Gay,

and J.M. Basa Street.The judging areas are at

Freedom Grandstand, Capitol, and Plazoleta Gay.

The float will be judged based on craftsmanship which comprises 40 percent; relevance to the theme for 30 percent; music for 15 percent, and per-formance 15 percent for a total of 100 percent.

is undeniably a challenge as it also gives him butterflies in one way or another. Nevertheless, he realized that no matter where he is, there is a bigger purpose. He used his knowledge and experience to help pick people up when they’re wounded. “The universe will conspire once your time has come. Ironically, military surgeons are trained to ‘heal’ and ‘kill’.”

Just like Abdul, don’t under-estimate yourself when handed a tough situation. Be proud of our strength. Stay strong for

yourself, and if you have it in you, find the strength to stay strong for someone else.

DO SOMETHING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCEAbdul is a firm believer in

leaving this world a better place for future generations. “All mili-tary personnel move by an order. I was a former commander of a medical company in the Philip-pine Army stationed in Jamin-dan, Capiz. I was also deployed in Jolo and Zamboanga before to reinforce the medical team in those areas. Currently, I am the team leader of one of the medi-

cal teams here in Marawi City. I’d like to inspire others that one can be a doctor and a military at the same time. Due to the cur-rent events here in Mindanao, I wanted to inform the others regarding the situation.”

So don’t let the day pass you by. Whatever you’re passionate about, do something to make a difference.

like the writer on Facebook.com/FrancislloydSauza

DISClAIMER: This interview does not represent the Armed Forces of the Philippines in gen-eral. This article only involves Major Abdul Aziz Ontok and his life as a military surgeon.

C11Friday, August 25, 2017uardianthe dailyG Western Visayas Most

Read and Respected 80th Iloilo City Charter Day

nity, which has since established small, family-owned businesses ranging from hardware stores to general merchandise outlets.

For those unfamiliar with the location, Iznart Street starts from Plazoleta Gay to the Maria Clara intersection (which is now more famously known as Iloilo’s ‘Chi-natown’). Curiously though, the street from Provincial Capitol to Plazoleta Gay was changed to another name by virtue of City Ordinance No. 6, Series of 1971, and it is now called…

3. Calle Dr. Fermin CaramCaram Street stretches from

Provincial Capitol to Plazoleta Gay, and the name change was completely warranted: Dr. Fermin Caram, a medical doctor who later served as governor of Iloilo during the Japanese occupation of the city when World War II broke out in the Pacific, famously saved Iloilo City from imminent bombing by the Americans in 1945 when he, along with lt. Oscar Nava, signaled the pilot flying over them to cease bombing by writing “NO MORE JAPS” in bold letters across his terrace.

4. Calle JM Basa“JM” stands for Jose Maria

Basa and was a well-known mer-chant, revolutionary and friend of Jose Rizal. Jose Maria Basa was a reformer and propagandist respon-sible for funding and smuggling Rizal’s novels and la Solidaridad into the Philippines in 1898.

Nowadays, JM Basa is more famous for its other name, ‘Calle Real’ or Royal Street, and is now being built up as the shopping area and entertainment center of down-town Iloilo; many 19th century cinemas, after all, were located there at one point in time.

5. Calle LedesmaThe street is said to be named af-

ter Don Anastacio lopez ledesma, part-owner of the land where the street was supposed to be built on. He donated the land for public use and, in return, was named after him in his honor.

Some sources claim that Calle ledesma is named after Gen. Pas-cual ledesma, a former merchant ship chief who later served as captain in the Katipunan.

ledesma Street spans from Plazoleta Gay to Rizal Elemen-tary School. During the 1940s, this place was the fiscal artery of Iloilo City: parlors, tailoring shops, and

calle 101... from p.2Provincial Capitol building.

9. Calle GuancoNamed after Espiridion Guanco,

a Molo native, he was one of the first senators of the country during the American Occupation. Guanco Street is part of the old business district where the first pawnshops, jewelry stores, and money ex-change services were established. Of course, who can forget the old Gaisano Guanco shopping center there?

10. Calle Muelle LoneyThe street is named after Nicho-

las loney, a British consul who is dubbed as the ‘Father of The Philippine Sugar Industry’. Part-owner of loney & Ker Co., the pioneering British lending business based in Iloilo during that time, he was responsible for jumpstarting the local sugar industry by giving loans and financial aid to land bar-ons and farmers which they used to avail cutting-edge machineries and tools that enabled them to speed up production of the “sweet stuff”.

Today, Muelle loney Street sits adjacent to the Iloilo River Wharf and houses the Aduana Building (the present-day Iloilo Customs House). The city government built a monument of loney facing the river in tribute to his contribution to Iloilo’s trade and commerce.

11. Calle ValeriaValeria Street holds the distinc-

tion of being the only street car-rying a first name; that of Valeria ledesma, the daughter of Anas-tacio lopez ledesma and Clara Jalandoni lopez.

Valeria is one of the oldest streets in the city. In one of the quirkier stories of its kind you’ll hear, Don Anastacio planned to donate an area of his lot to the city in honor of his daughter; however, since ‘Calle ledesma’ was already taken as a street name (see item number 5 above), he simply chose to name it instead as ‘Valeria’. What a father’s love can do, indeed.

12. Calle Santos Chiu Kim She

Whatever you may think, no, Kim Chiu is not magically related to any of us here in Iloilo. However, it is more popularly known by its “unofficial” street name nowadays: Valeria Extension.

The street is named after a mer-chant from China who settled in Iloilo in 1914 and established a business selling native products and crops. Similar to several Chinese migrants who made their mark in the local community, Santos became one of the most respected Chinese businessmen in the city because of his spirit for volunteerism and humanitarian acts. A frequent ex-ample of his deeds back then were the fundraising drives and charities he conducted for citizens affected by natural calamities and disasters.

la Muy leal y Noble Ciudad de Iloilo—The Most loyal and Noble City of Iloilo—has an interesting history etched in its old buildings and hidden in its streets and av-enues. These names above are not just words written in signs; these are the names that helped put Iloilo in its current place of history and culture. Is all of that clear now?

Good. Class dismissed. Did we miss any other local street names? You can share it with us in the com-ments section below!

This article was first posted on http://projectiloilo.com/calle-101-how-iloilos-streets-got-their-names/ The article was revised to correct the entry which erroneously credited La Solidaridad as Jose Rizal’s publication. It has also been revised to include Anastacio Ledesma’s role in the creation of ‘Calle Ledesma’. Research for this piece is derived from the writings of Dr. Henry F. Funtecha and Rex Salvilla.

printing presses were all located here back then.

6. Calle De LeonThe street is named after famed

revolutionary and municipal presi-dent, Juan De leon. After the establishment of the Estado Federal de Visayas and the Fall of Manila in 1898 shortly thereafter, De leon relocated from Iloilo to Northern Negros to serve as councilor.

Today, De leon Street is com-monly known for being the location of the Iloilo Terminal Market aka ‘Super’, where jeepneys bound to the south of Iloilo are to be found. Hardware and upholstery shops, many of which are several genera-tions old, are also located there.

7. Calle DelgadoDelgado Street is perhaps one of

the more famous calles in the city, so it should come as no surprise that it is named after an equally famous man: Gen. Martin Delgado, an Ilonggo revolutionary who fought against the Spanish regime in 1898 by leading the uprising in Sta. Barbara, a town which also holds the distinction of being the first place outside Manila where the Philippine flag was raised on October 28, 1898. He eventually served as Governor of Panay Island until March 1904.

For anyone who has lived a significant amount of time in Iloilo City, Delgado Street is really hard to miss. It is a road that intersects with four streets in downtown Iloilo, and it has served as a com-mercial artery for many establish-ments like banks and malls. Of course, the occasional small-time shops are also located there.

8. Calle Heneral LunaNamed after Gen. Antonio

luna, a national hero and a military strategist during the Spanish and American occupation, the street itself is one of the oldest in the city dating back from the 18th century. More notably though, this was where the “modernization” of Iloilo took root during the American oc-cupation; the first sets of electric and telephone wires were installed in said street.

General luna is a bustling avenue lined with commercial es-tablishments like hotels, banks, and convenience stores. It also hosts local universities like UP of the Visayas, University of San Agustin, St. Paul’s University, and several primary and secondary schools. It directly connects between Benigno Aquino Avenue (now popularly known as Diversion Road) to the

unDergraD... from p.8Worker, Population, Health and Environment (PHE) advocate and Family Planning Facilitator under the PESCoDev Project of Save the Children.

Her impressive performance in the community as a family planning volunteer, according to her nominator Dr. Helen Min-guez of Concepcion Municipal Health Station, opened an op-portunity for her to become the KAlAHI-CIDSS Community Empowerment Facilitator under DSWD in the municipality.

Several community projects were established under her able assistance as facilitator, like day care center, solar streetlights, post-harvest facilities, and ba-ranggay access road.

Her rich experience and deep commitment to volunteerism and her exceptional track record with KAlAHI-CIDSS, made it easy for the Philippine Business for Social Project (PBSP) to en-

trust her with P1,000,000 worth of livelihood assistance for individual or organized fisher folks with small businesses, according to Minguez .

There were only 150 mem-bers when the project started in February 2014 but under her able leadership, it has now expanded to more than 500 members.

Being an epitome of an em-powered woman, she’s also one of the most sought-after resource persons in Gender Sensitive Training and Gender and De-velopment Training for various women organizations and local organizer of gender-based vio-lence watch group in Iloilo.

“Gemma has indeed made major contributions in the field of women empowerment, es-pecially in the Municipality of Concepcion, all throughout these years. She did not allow her being an undergraduate to prevent her from making life-changing impacts in the lives of

her fellow Concepcionanons. As a volunteer worker, she doesn’t get compensated for her efforts and services but I never heard her complain,” said Minguez.

The other finalists who were also recognized by the search were Dumangas Sangguniang Bayan Member Jasmin Oca-mpo, SPO1 Rina Salaya of the Women and Children’s Desk of Maasin Municipal Police Sta-tion, Dueñas Tourism Officer Susan Pacheo and retired Iloilo Prosecutor Irene Panigbatan.

Ang Ilongga Awards or the Search for Outstanding Woman Community leader aims to identify and give recognition to women leaders with extraordi-nary accomplishments creating positive change and sustainable solutions to issues and concerns affecting their community.

It is sponsored by SM City Iloilo, Virginia Foods and Beau-ty Essentials as part of their corporate social responsibility activities.

Sometimes thoughts, fears, or other people get too loud and we can’t hear ourselves. Neverthe-less, Abdul did what he needs to do to get back in touch. “It was my dream to become part of the armed forces. However, my par-ents did not allow me to. Being an obedi-ent child, I followed their dream for me to b e c o m e a doctor. [And] after passing my degree in medicine with flying colors, it was time that they give my dream a chance. Though they still had little problems [and complains] about it after that.”

Are you doing what you’ve al-ways wanted to do? If you’re not, there’s no time like the present - start this moment. listen to that little voice inside yourself, like a loving parent or a good friend. This is the truest part of your soul, the key to your happiness.

BE A BEACON OF HOPEThe reason Abdul decided to

join the armed forces is because the soldiers need more doc-tors. Being a military doctor isn’t always an option to many. For him, it’s so important that someone starts upholding about



Photos By aBDul a. ontoK

EACH of us has a purpose on this beautiful earth. What we make our lives

and how we choose to fulfill it is up to us. What is most important is that you have a cause, some-thing you believe in that lights up your life and connects you to your life’s purpose.

Everyone has causes close to their hearts just like the 31-year old military surgeon from North Cotabato, Major Abdul Aziz Ontok. Being a military surgeon has presented him with so many extraordinary opportunities to give back, to volunteer, and to touch so many lives along the way. “I thank our Creator for giving me the opportunity and the skills to treat the wounded soldiers who risk their lives for the Filipino people for them to

a Better Place

Do Your PartTo Make This Worldsleep soundly at night. Heal-ing the sick and protecting the country at the same time have a different sense of fulfillment and happiness.”

Just like Abdul, find some-thing in life that makes you get up in the morning, and keep on doing that. Pursue the things that give you the most fulfill-ment and happiness.

LISTEN TO YOUR INSTINCTS

Each and every one of us has a different beginning to our story. Our lives all start in different places, but when we dedicate our hearts and minds to what we are most passionate about, there is no stopping us.

this, so that those wounded soldiers who risk their lives for the country know that there is help out there. It’s his job to be a beacon of hope to those mili-tary personnel and other civil-ians in the war zone that don’t have any. “After my internship

has ended in the Philippine General Hos-pital (PGH) and passing the boards, I applied to be-

come part of the AFP Medical Corps Branch and passed. I en-tered the military to participate in the development of this coun-try. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) needs more military doctors. I underwent a two-month military training in a boot camp, assigned in the field for two years, then proceeded with my specialty training in surgery. We are bound to pro-vide health care to the military and their dependents. There are occasions however that we ex-tend our service to the PNP and other civilians in the area.”

Just like Abdul, stand up for those who can’t yet. Give them support and strength.

BEING STRONG IS THE ONLY CHOICE YOU

HAVEIt’s the times in life when

we really have the choice to rise to the occasion. When you do, you are all the better for taking on the challenge and letting yourself grow into the strongest character you can be. For Abdul, carrying out his job in the field or in the war zone

do your/p10

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