Pacquiao wins by 12th-round technical knockout

BY FABULOUS FORUM / LA Times

If there was any doubt Manny Pacquiao was the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, he answered that Saturday with a dominating victory over world welterweight champion Miguel Cotto, stopping the Puerto Rican at 55 seconds of the 12th round at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao, the only fighter in history to win seven titles in seven weight classes, took control of the fight in the second round and never let up, knocking Cotto down twice.

By the end Cotto was bleeding from cuts near both eyes as well as from his nose and his white boxing trunks with stained pink with his own blood.

Cotto, who clearly hasn't been the same fighter since his brutal 11-round loss to Antonio Margarito in this same ring 16 months ago, spent most of the night backpedaling. In the final round referee Kenny Bayless had to step in and remind Cotto to keep his hands up. When Cotto couldn't do that, the referee stepped in to stop things.
Round 12

This is it--although clearly the fight has been over for some time. The blood coming from the cut near Cotto's eye is gushing now and referee Kenny Bayless has to continue to remind him to keep his gloves up. Finally Bayless steps in to stop with more than two minutes to go.
Round 11

There is a cut next to Cotto's left eye, sending a trickle of blood down that side of his already battered face. Pacquiao has just been too quick and elusive for the bigger Cotto, who still can't solve the Filipino. Freddie Roach's fighters aren't big on defense and Pacquiao isn't backing off know.

At the start of the second minute of the round, he gets Cotto in the red corner and lands several punches, none of which Cotto answerd. Thiirty seconds later they're back in the same corner with the same result. There would be little argument if the fight was stopped now. Cotto may not be defenseless but he has no offense. As the final seconds of the round tick down, Cotto backpedals away as Pacquiao again stops, dropping his hands to his side in disgust. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-8

Round 10
This time it's Cotto who makes the sign of the cross at the bell. His white trunks are now stained with blood and both eyes are nearly swollen closed. The only punches he's able to connect with on a regular basis are left jabs and they aren't doing much damage. Cotto continues to backpedal and Pacquiao continues to chase him.With 42 seconds left, Pacquiao pauses in the center of the ring, drops his hands and takes a deep sigh and if to challenge Cotto to make this a fight instead of a track meet. Pacquiao wins the round 10-9
Round 9

Cotto needs a big punch now. And while Pacquiao knows that he remains on the offensive. Cotto gain keeps the right back, content to lob left-handed jabs. Pacquiao gets off a good three-punch combinaiton early in the round, the again traps Cotto against the ropes three times. The final time, with 87 seconds left, really hurts him. Cotto is ready to go down. It's only a matter of time now. Cotto looks--and is boxing lke -- a battered fighter and Pacquiao can sense that. Cotto is now bleeding heavily from his nose into his mouth. Pacquiao wins the round 10-9
Round 8

The chant is now Let's Go Manny. The Puerto Rican fans answer with a feeble Cotto, Cotto. But like their fighter, their hearts clearly are not in it. Pacquiao is mixing both the right and left hands now. Cotto gets off another straight to Pacquiao's face that stuns him. Cotto may have a problem with his left hand. He doesn't appear to be using it at all. Cotto continues to fight backward and the round ends with him backed into his corner, saved from further damage by the bell. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9
Round 7

The fight of the year is quickly becoming a rout. Cotto hasn't been the dominant fighter he once was since taking a beating from Antonio Margarito in this same ring in July 2008. But Pacquiao is simply taking him apart. Cotto can't match the Filipino's speed and when the two go toe-to-toe, Pacquiao is the harder puncher as well. Cotto really hasn't landed more than a handful of clean shots since the opening round. Although he nails Pacquiao with the shot to the face in the opening seconds of the final minute. That startles Pacquiao, who takes a few seconds to regroup. But the round again ends with Cotto on the run. Pacquiao wins the round 10-9
Round 6

Cotto needs to get back into the fight but he's not going to try to do it with one punch. With Pacquiao going for the head consistently, Cotto is now able to duck punches. Pacquiao may need to change a bit. With 1:32 left in the round, he gets Cotto on the ropes and gets off a combination but Cotto escapes. Pacquiao gets him again in the middle of the ring with another two shots. Cotto's face is showing the damage, looking red and perhaps a bit swollen.

Pacquiao twice gets Cotto on the ropes in the final 15 seconds and almost gets him down for a third time but he inexplicably stops for just a second, allowing Cotto to recover and the round ends with Cotto counterpunching. Pacquiao 10-9
Round 5

The Filipino half of the crowd breaks into another chant of Manny, Manny, Manny. And this time it's Cotto who is backing away. Pacquiao is fighting forward now. But instead of going to the body of the bigger Cotto, as was expected, he's going straight at the Puerto Rican's head, perhaps hoping to expand the cut under Cotto's eye. Pacquiao appears supremely confident but he makes a mistake with 30 seconds left, throwing a wild punch that leaves his wide open. Cotto can't take advantage, through, and the round again ends with Pacquiao swarming all over the befuddled Cotto. Pacquiao, 10-9
Round 4

Cotto, looking for an opening, gets off a couple of good lefts early in the round but they apppear to have little effect. Pacquiao appears content to bide his time, dancing away from Cotto and making him chase. But he punches as he moves and the two fighters exchange a brutal flurry with less than 90 seconds left in the round.

Cotto gets Pacquiao pinned against the ropes and momentairily gains the advnatage. But Pacquiao escapes and as the two fighers mvoes to the center of the ring, Cotto goes down again. This time, all the way down for a hard left to the chin. He looks hurt and he's bleeding below one eye. Pacquiao 10-8
Round 3

Pacquiao makes the sign of the cross before coming out his corner for the third round. Cotto throws a left that Pacquiao sidesteps and, with Cotto off balance, he stumbles. Although he never falls completely to the canvas, going to one knee, referee Kenny Bayless calls it a knockdown. Pacquiao's speed, which surprised so many other fighers, apppears to be too much for Cotto, who continues to punch at spots Pacquiao just left. Pacquiao wins the round 10-8
Round 2

Cotto continues to push the action. Pacquiao can't seem to get close enough the bigger, stronger Cotto to get in a good shot. But about halfway through the round he finds an opening and delivers a combination. Seconds later Cotto responds, getting Pacquiao against the ropes and delivering a flurry of punches. Although the action is fast, few of the punches seems to be doing much damage. Until Pacquiao gets off a rapid-fire three-punch combination with about 15 seconds left. The crowd is on its feet. When the bell sounds, Pacquiao drops his gloves and stares at Cotto. Pacquiao wins round, 10-9
Round 1

A huge roar went up for the crowd at the opening bell. Cotto startled Pacquiao with a shot to the head about halfway through the round but it didn't seem to hurt the Filipino. In fact, abot half a minute later Pacquiao was on the offensive. The two fighters clinched to start the final minute as the Puerto Rican half of the crowd roars Cotto Cotto Cotto. Cotto misses with a wild uppercut with 14 seconds left as the action picks up. Cotto wins the round 10-9

Pacquiao was the first fighter into the ring. Wearing red trunks littered with logos he went staright to his corner and knelt in prayer. Cotto followed minutes later wearing a scowl and white thuunks with red stripes.
MGM’s soldout Grand Garden Arena began buzzing with anticipation for the Miguel Cotto-Manny Pacquiao showdown as soon as the final fight on the entertainining eight-bout undercard ended.
Before a punch has even been thrown, many observers have already christened it the fight of the year. And if the prebout hype is any indication, it may live up to the that billing.
Following the final preliminary bout, the ring immediately filled with entourages representing both fighters, the Pacquiao camp carrying a Philippine flag and the Cotto side unveiling a Puerto Rican banner. A trio of singers performed three anthems -- one for the Philippines, one for Puerto Rico and the final for the U.S., the start of which was drowned out by cheers from some of Cotto's supporters.
Among the 16,000 in the arena -- but not in the ring -- were baseball’s Derek Jeter, basketball’s Magic Johnson, football’s Brandon Jacobs, entertainers Mario Lopez, Will Ferrell, Sean Combs, Mark Wahlberg, Joe Pesci, Mickey Rourke and Jeremy Piven and boxers Shane Mosley and Tommy Hearns.

Free public viewing of Pacman-Cotto boxing fight

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - The provincial government is again offering free live telecast of the much awaited fight between pound-for-pound king Emmanuel Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KOs) and Puerto Rican boxer Miguel Angel Cotto (34-1, 27 knockouts) this November 15.

The public viewing for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title fight is sponsored by Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores and aired by Kalibo Cable Television Network, beginning at 8 a.m.

The last free public viewing of Pacquiao boxing match against British champion Ricky Hatton gathered thousands of residents and supporters at the Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports Complex last May.

Filipino boxing icon Pacquiao knocked out Hatton in the second round for the International Boxing Organization (IBO) light-welterweight crown at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Last December 2008, Pacquiao also defeated boxing legend Oscar "Golden Boy" dela Hoya in the 8th round in the welterweight division.

Cotto, the natural welterweight, dominated Michael Jennings in the fifth round last February 2009 at the Madison Square Garden for the WBO welterweight belt and won by split decision against Jorge Courtney in his last fight.

As expected, over 2,500 boxing fans could watch the fight dubbed "Firepower" on wide screens at the Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports Complex while the local government of Kalibo headed by Mayor Raymar Rebaldo also offers free live telecast of Pacquiao's fight at the Kalibo Magsaysay Park.

Two restaurants in the capital town of Kalibo and at APSTA Center courtesy of Aklan Cable Television Network will air the live boxing match for P150. In Boracay Island, hotels and resorts are charging P150 to P495 with free lunch and rounds of beer for their pay-for-view clients for the Pacquiao-Cotto 12-round boxing duel.

At the weigh-in yesterday, Pacquiao, who has won ten straight fights since early 2005, weighed in at 144 pounds while Cotto came in at 145 pounds. If Pacquiao wins against Cotto, the Filipino champion is the first fighter in boxing history to win championship belts in seven different weight classes.

In the undercard, undefeated Mexican boxer Julio Cesar Chavez Jr will be facing Troy Rowland in a ten-round middleweight bout while three-time Puerto Rican world champion Daniel Santos will fight Israeli Yuri Foreman for the World Boxing Association (WBA) super welterweight title.

Vice guv urges Aklan SP to monitor landmark ordinances implementation
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo has challenged the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) members to monitor the implementation of landmark provincial ordinances for tourism, environment and investments.
Aklan Investment and Incentives Code, Aklan Environment Code and the Aklan Tourism Code were enacted by the legislative council under the leadership of Calizo-Quimpo.
“We have yet to see the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) and the implementation of these ordinances. The ball is in the hands of the executive but still the Aklan SP committees should look out that what you passed will be implemented,” she said.
Calizo said the Provincial Technical Working Group (PTWG) could be tapped to finally draft the IRR and to organize the policy making council of the different sectors in tourism, investments and environment.
SP member Rodson Mayor, chairman of the Oversight Committee, has assured his colleagues that he will coordinate with the Office of the Provincial Governor and the PTWG for the drafting and the implementation of the IRR.
“The time frame is a bit unreasonable now since the provincial codes were enacted almost six months ago. I am not remised as your presiding officer to remind that these codes are implemented. It is pointless to approve these ordinances and not been able to implement,” Calizo-Quimpo said.
To fund the operation and function, an initial amount of P1-million is allocated each for the three councils. The money is sourced from the province's annual budget.
The Aklan SP passed the Aklan Investments Incentives Code through General Ordinance No. 2008-007 while its complimentary ordinance, the Tourism Code of Aklan was enacted through General Ordinance No. 2009-003.

Echoes From
BY JOHNNY DAYANG

Moral force: Conscience of the nation

At a time of uncertainties hovering in the horizon, morality is often invoked by men of great will and deeds to steer clear the destiny of a nation.
And nothing comes close to the preponderance of his unshakeable belief than the Moral Force Movement launched by Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno.
Apolitical, the Movement is fundamentally what we Filipinos, in whose hands our collective fate as a people lies, are in dire need of as we continue the struggle for a distinct national identity befitting our cultural heritage, political structure and socio-economic aspirations as part of a global community of nations.
Regrettably, the ugly head of prevarication has reared again as the people now witness the resurgence of old-style politics, the tradition of patronage that has characterized the prevailing campaign in the run-up to next year’s national elections.
Mudslinging, intrigues and all sorts of machinations are back, giving credence to impressions of moral decadence in the conduct of a political exercise.
As Chief Justice Puno has preached from the pulpit of the judiciary, we need a moral force to redirect the nation’s destiny from the abyss of corruption to the zenith of dignity, integrity and social justice.
More than words, there’s a sense of urgency to translate commitments into real, palpable and concrete gains in the uplift of the lives of the people. It goes beyond mere rhetoric.
Thanks to Chief Justice Puno, we have a Movement that has finally come to fulfill its inherent purpose as the conscience of the nation. Basically, the Movement is a litmus test of character when no one is watching.
It is to Chief Justice Puno’s credit that he has withstood attempts by vested interests to drag him into the political fray. He has shunned moves by certain politicians to identify themselves with the Movement for their selfish agenda.
It is for this exemplary leadership of Puno that the Movement has broadened its mass base of supporters as moral stewards and watchdogs – from religious and civil society groups to youth and non-government organizations.
Puno is himself the epitome of what the Movement stands for – neither pro nor anti administration or opposition.
As a moral compass, the Movement is pro-people, a call for truth, respect of the Constitution and upholding the core values of honesty, decency and above all, morality.

Aklan SP nears passage of Children's Code

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

(Akeanon) Children’s Code sa Aklan, madali eon lang nga maaprubahan / Bombo Radyo

http://www.bomboradyo.com/newsdetails1.asp?ID=118472

KALIBO, Aklan – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Aklan is expected to approve in third and final reading the provincial ordinance on Aklan Children’s Code in the next regular session.
SP member Daisy Briones, principal author of the proposed code, said the three committees – women, family, welfare and children, laws, rules and ordinances and the health and social services – had endorsed the approval of the Aklan Children’s Code in the second reading in yesterday's regular session.
The code aims to ensure the protection of children against all forms of abuse and exploitation and to advocate their rights and promote their welfare and development.
SP member Selwyn Ibarreta said the province will allocate an initial fund of P1-million to be taken from the 20 percent Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) for the publication of the implementing rules and regulations, training and orientation of stakeholders and promotion of the code to the general public.
A total of six fine-tuning sessions were conducted by the Provincial Technical Working Group (PTWG) and the three committees after the proposed code was referred on August 13, 2009.
“After the fine-tuning sessions, the final draft was presented to the plenary sessions last month and a public hearing was also held on October 28,” Briones said during the 41st regular session of the Aklan SP.
More than 100 stakeholders participated in the public hearing representing the various sectors from the local government units, media, schools, law enforcers, teachers, students, local social welfare workers and parent-teachers associations.
Under the proposed ordinance, the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development will establish a Desk for Childen’s Concerns. The Provincial Council for the Protection of Children (PCPC) and the municipalities will also formulate a three-year comprehensive program for children, including the rehabilitation programs and prevention of children’s rights violations.
In a study in 2006 by the End Child Prostitution Child Pornography and the Trafficking for Sexual Purposes (ECPAT) Philippines confirmed the presence of minors who are victims of commercial sexual exploitation or CSEC in the island of Boracay
ECPAT has recommended for the conduct of information of dissemination and education in understanding CSEC for stakeholders, establish active partnership with the community to identify solutions and to provide basic services and assistance for victims, including psychosocial services and counseling.

Travel Diaries: Inside Boracay's 'number 1' spa
BY REYMA BUAN-DEVEZA

BORACAY - No stay at the beautiful island of Boracay is complete without a relaxing experience at a first-rate spa - and the Tirta Spa comes highly recommended.
Tirta Spa treats its clients to opulent facilities and a peaceful atmosphere through its natural settings and Zen-inspired decor of East Asian sensibility.
The complex boasts of a Zen garden, pavilions, and private suites for spa treatments.
Located at Sitio Malabunot, Manoc-Manoc, Boracay Island (Station 3), "Tirta" (from the Hindu word for "Holy Water") was conceptualized by its owner En Calvert.
Calvert named her spa "Tirta" after her successful retreat in the Himalayas, where she realized the benefits of spiritual healing and hope -- the same things she wants her clients to feel when they visit her spa.
"We have a lot of spas here and abroad but what makes Tirta different from all the rest is its good ambiance and its spiritual touch," Calvert said.
In an interview with abs-cbnNEWS.com, Calvert shared that her "haven of the senses" started from her personal pleasure to give massages and go to spas.
Armed with sufficient knowledge in starting and maintaining a spa business, Calvert opened her spa resort in Boracay in 2007, with the help of a friend who offered her a lot on the island.
Tirta offers packages like the "Before and After Sun" treatments and "Secrets of Egypt" treatments. Services at the spa cost from P2,750 to P3,250 for single treatments and P5,500 to P11,000 for spa packages.
As a world-class establishment, Tirta was awarded several times already. "We started [in] 2007 and in 2 years time, Tirta already received recognition as one of the best spas in Asia," Calvert said.
In 2008, Tirta Spa received the "Most Outstanding Health and Beauty Spa in Philippines" award from the Consumers Union of the Philippines.
In March this year, Tirta bagged a Gold Award as one of the five "Best Day Spa" from Asia Spa & Wellness Festival Gold Awards 2009 that was held in Bangkok, Thailand.
Currently, Calvert is in Singapore as her Tirta Spa has again been nominated for "Spectacular Spas -- Asia Pacific for 2009/2010" by the well-renowned Asia Spa Insitute in Singapore. /abscbnnews.com

Soothing the soul
BY DINNA CHAN VASQUEZ

These days, any establishment with more than two massage beds can call itself a spa. Kai Regency Spa, located at the Garden Wing of the Triple A-rated Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center, begs to differ.
Kai is a P50-million luxury spa located in two floors of the resort. It is designed with modern Asian influences and aims to restore the harmony and serenity into the lives of its clients with a wide array of services administered by some of the best therapists in the island, if not the country.
“From the moment you enter into these sacred places until you leave, time seems to slow down and you feel like you are in a journey through depth and beauty. Once the serenity bell chimes, your feet are washed and you are lying on the bed, your subconscious will take in your much-needed break,” says Kai’s brochure.
Indeed, Kai, which means “soothing” in Chinese, is meant to take a person away from the worries of everyday life and bring him or her to a more peaceful place, even for a short time only. Once you enter Kai's wooden doors, time stands still and you enter a peace zone where voices are hushed and movements are relaxed. The interiors were created for a total sensory experience that would help the individual achieve holistic health and wellness.
The spa has 22 rooms with interiors designed for different treatments, which includes the 90-minute Kai Signature Massage (P3,240), which has slimming and warming properties that involves the use of an aromatic thermal pad placed throughout the body, followed by a stroke massage that promotes circulation and improves muscle tone.
The Filipino Hagud (P3,024)is an age-old Filipino massage that relaxes strained and sprained bodies with a series of healing strokes. The treatment utilizes the therapeutic properties of virgin coconut oil, while Hawaiian Lomi Lomi is a deeply revitalizing Hawaiian style of massage using full body techniques applied with rhythmic grace.
Kai is divided into different areas like Imperial Suites, Emperor’s Courtyard, Royal Sanctuary, Dynasty Hall and Tropical Suite, depending on the treatment you are having or whether you prefer privacy or not.
For example, we had the Wellbeing Swedish Massage at The Emperor’s Courtyard, which is a communal massage room, for P1,026. If we had the treatment at Imperial Suites, where we could have had a room to ourself, that would have cost P3,024. Lisa, our therapist, was great with her hands and is one of the best masseurs we have come across. Her strokes were firm but not too hard and the massage left us feeling relaxed and sleepy, not dry and limp as if someone had beaten us up.
Boracay Regency resident manager Dindo Salazar explains that value for money is always on the mind of the resort chairman and president Henry Chusuey.
“He wants luxury to be accessible to more people. Value for money is always important to the company,” Salazar says.
He explains that Kai’s therapists undergo rigid training before they are allowed to “handle” guests.
“I know that they are re-trained periodically to maintain the quality of service at the spa,” Salazar adds.
One of the more interesting services offered by Kai is the Choco Lovers Moisturizing Gommage (P2,160), which gently exfoliates skin and leaves it moisturized and softly scented with chocolate.
The spa also has its soothing rituals like Tranquility (P7,560), which includes a massage, Green Tea Soothing Facial and Anti-cellulite Volcanic Mud Wrap with scrub, and Bliss (P7,020), which includes choices of scrub, Four-Hand Harmony Massage and Whitening Vitamin C Facial.
Kai has also come up with packages for couples, such as Romantic Paradise (P12,960), a 12-hour treatment that includes candlelight rose petal milk bath, aroma hot stone massage, Choco Lovers Moisturizing Gommage and a romantic dinner at Cafe Christina’s, and Ulayaw Package (P12,180), which includes candlelit rose cool bath, Anti-cellulite Volcanic Mud Wrap and Filipino Hagud Massage.
For information about Kai Regency Spa, e-mail kai@boracayregency.com or call (036)288-6111, local 426.

‘Pacquiao's Resort’ probed
BY BEN ROSARIO

Boracay West Cove Resort, now making waves in the tourism industry as “Pacquiao’s Resort,” will be the object of a congressional investigation for allegedly being constructed in a “no-build zone” atop a coral reef.
In a resolution filed Monday, Aklan Rep. Florencio T. Miraflores asked the House Committees on Natural Resources and on Ecology to investigate the accusations made by local officials in Malay town that West Cove was built in a “no-build zone” on Boracay Island.
Local folk in Boracay have tagged West Cove as “Pacquiao’s Resort,” believing that it is owned by the Filipino boxing idol who is slated to fight Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto in another sensational boxing match in Las Vegas on Nov. 15 (Manila time).
In Resolution 1470, Miraflores said residents and resort owners of the world-famous Boracay island in Malay municipality have expressed strong objections over the construction of the resort on Sitio Diniwid.
“Boracay West Cove Resort is owned by a certain Mr. Crisostomo Aquino who is allegedly a close friend of boxing champion Manny Pacquiao and Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Lito Atienza,” claimed Miraflores.
He said that “despite alleged violations of ordinances barring structures on ‘no-build zones,’ the resort continues to operate even without permits from the municipality of Malay and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).”
Miraflores claimed Aquino had admitted that the resort has a pending application for Forest Land Use Agreement for Tourism Purposes (FLAG-T) at the DENR,” thus, clearly indicating that he is still barred from constructing or operating the resort.
If finally released by the DENR, the FLAG-T permit would allow West Cove to temporarily use a total of 10,586 square meters for tourism for a period of 25 years and renewable for another 25 years.
“The area includes forest lands to be used for bathing, campsites, ecotourism destination and hotel sites which could pose potential environmental hazards and put to waste the efforts and resources of the residents to rehabilitate and save Boracay’s environment,” the Aklan solon explained.
Despite the protest, the West Cove management has already opened the resort to the public.
Pacquiao and wife, Jinkee, visited the place twice in the past. The first visit was when the popular fighter and his wife had an alleged spat, and the second was a few months before Mrs. Pacquiao gave birth to their youngest child, Queen Elizabeth.
While he admitted that Pacquiao is a close friend, Crisostomo vehemently denied that the resort is owned by the boxing hero, stressing that people suspected Pacquiao to be the owner of the place because of the latter’s visits.
Crisostomo and Atienza would be summoned by the House committees to air their side on the issue.

'Pacquiao's Resort' rises in Boracay

BORACAY ISLAND – What island folk here thought and called “Pacquiao’s Resort” is not after all owned by Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao.
West Cove, a resort inspired by the world-famous destination Santorini in Greece but is popularly known as Pacquiao’s Resort, is not Manny’s but is owned by businessman Crisostomo Aquino, who is a big fan and friend of the Pacquiaos.
To island folk, however, West Cove is Pacquiao’s Resort.
And they may have reason to think this way. Twice already, Pacquiao was seen here with his family – once, apparently to patch up things with wife Jinky after a spat; and second, to “assemble” their youngest child, Queen Elizabeth.
“I'm the sole owner of the resort, but I don't mind that people think it's Manny's. Biro mo, World Champion ’yun tapos may ganung resort? Madinig pa lang ng mga tao siguradong interesado na makita at pupuntahan talaga,” said Aquino.

He added: “But I want it to be a tribute to our world champion, gusto ko na may mapupuntahan siya (sa Boracay) pag nagretire siya later on. It’s already on our plans to put up a museum in the resort. I want to put all the Pacquiao memorabilia I have collected over the years in our sports bar that is currently being finished.”
Aquino has been a big fan of Pacquiao since the champ's early career.
He met Pacquiao through Frank Nazario in the US back in 2001 and the relationship grew from there.
“There were 12 of us who watched him fight and what's amazing is that all of us felt that it was the start of Philippine boxing history. Noon pa lang nakita ko na ’yung potential ’nung bata. I followed his career and knew that he's really different, kahit na ’nung una pa lang na sunod sunod ang suntok niya and wala pang masyadong strategy. Pero pagsumuntok alam mong babagsak ’yung kalaban,” Aquino excitingly shared.
Made in Boracay Another buzz circling around the hotel is that Manny and Jinky's youngest daughter was conceived in West Cove.
“It was around two years ago nagkakatampuhan sila ni Jinky and dito sila nagkaayos, and kung bibilangin mo nga ’yung buwan malaki nga ’yung possibility na dito ginawa si Queen Elizabeth. I think it was in December of 2007 before the Marquez fight, so I know this place is memorable to Manny,” Aquino said.
If such a theory is true then Manny's daughter was concieved in the hotel's Room 108, the resort's biggest room and of course most sought-after by Filipino guests. But local and foreign tourists don't need the specific room to ignite their flames of passion. All 11 rooms in the resort face the sunset. The ambiance and scenic views are more than enough to act as catalysts for passion in the place.
"Anyone who can prove that their baby was a product of West Cove romance will receive a complimentary three days and two nights stay in our hotel," said Aquino.

P56-M infra project for Aklan ARC underway
BY GRACE QUIMPO

“More than ten years ago today, I pledged never to return to Barangay Tag-osip which is unreachable to vehicles except motorcycles unless something good will come out of the commitment of CARP. . . Today, with the onset of CARPER (CARP Extension with Reforms), also known as RA 9700, we are preparing to implement every Buruanganons dream of reaching the far-flung barangay of Tag-osip” according to Atty. Daniel Martelino of DAR-Aklan
The Department of Agrarian Reform in Aklan facilitated the validation by the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Program (ARISP) III of the proposed projects in the agrarian reform communities in Buruanga, Aklan last November 4 to 6, 2009.
The validation team was headed by Engr. Imelda G. Lamboon, Senior Infrastructure Engineer Jun Mutsomoto, Institutional Development Expert Tomoki Nakamura and Rurak Infrastructure Engineer Rolando Maloles.
The Regional Project Management Office was led by Regional Director Alexis M. Arsenal and the Aklan Provincial Project Management Office headed by Martelino.
Regional and provincial representatives of the National Irrigation Administration and from the Provincial District Office of the DPWH were also present to validate the projects.
The site inspection of the proposed infrastructure development projects includes an irrigation project, three road projects and a potable water system project.
The farm-to-market road recommended for funding is the 5.4 kms. concreting of the El-Progreso – Tag-osip Road from Poblacion, Banga with a 24 Linear Meter concrete bridge with a projected cost of at least P30 million. Counterpart from the LGU would be the rehabilitation of two roads namely the 2.1 km Balusbos-Habana-Cabugan Road and the 2.7 km. Nazareth-El Progreso Road.
The rehabilitation of Buruanga – Habana Communal Irrigation System with a service area of 260 hectares includes rehabilitation of the diversion dam and concrete lining of main canals with the Municipal LGU and Buruanga Irrigator’s Service Association (BISA) jointly managing and operating the project. The project costs P260-million.

LGU has also committed P5 million equity for canal lining, right of way plus organization and management.

Another project is the Habana Potable Water System (PWS) that will benefit the 287 unserved households of the seven Sitios of Barangay Habana. The Municipal and Barangay LGU committed to jointly manage the project.
Institutional components such as the strengthening of the Tag-osip – El Progreso ARBs MPC will be facilitated while the improvement of the production and marketing system for rice and high value crops will be enhanced.

Miss Earth 2009 staging boosts Boracay's tourism
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

BORACAY – This island paradise noted for its white sand beaches further boost its status as the premier beach destination with the staging of the prestigious Miss Earth 2009 beauty pageant this November.
Beamed across the world by ABS-CBN Channel 2 and the Filipino Channel, eighty-six earth beauties will vie for the titles Miss Earth, Miss Earth-Air, Miss Earth-Water and Miss Earth-Fire on November 22 at Boracay Ecovillage Resort and Convention Center in Barangay Yapak.
Boracay, an island off the northern tip of Aklan province, offers its enchanting beauty and unmatched grandeur of beaches not only for the Miss Earth delegates from 86 countries but also to millions of tourists from all over the world.

In 2003 Miss Earth finals, the beauties was filmed playing with kids from the island, picking shells, sunbathing, fishing and swimming in Boracay.
In the preliminaries, Evelyne Almasi from Tanzania bagged the Best in National Costume during the Miss Earth 2009 National Costume Competition at the Amazing Philippines Theater in Pasig City on November 4.Miss Puerto Rico Dignelis Jimenez was Miss Psamlstre New Placenta while Miss Guam Maria Luisa Santos received the Pasigandahan Award.

On November 14, the candidates will battle it out in the Swimsuit finals event in Fontana Leisure Park & Casino, Pampanga while on November 16, PAGCOR Grand Theater in Parañaque is the host venue of Evening Gown Competition Finals.
On November 17, the Talent Competition Finals will take place in Coron, Palawan before the world’s loveliest ladies heed off to the island of Boracay for the final rehearsals on November 19 to 21 and the Grand Coronation Night on November 22.
Organizer Carousel Productions, Inc. Executive Vice President Lorraine Schuck said the Miss Earth delegates this year have been spreading the message to live an eco-friendly lifestyle by seriously implementing the 4Rs – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Respect.
The 2009 Miss Earth Beauty Pageant is being supported by Miss Earth Foundation, Discovery Suites, Fairways and Bluewater, Fontana Leisure Parks, Boracay Ecovillage Resort and Convention Center, Alta Vista de Boracay, Mito’s Place Boracay, Patio Pacific Boracay, PAGCOR, Nestle Nesvita and Karilagan International Travel & Tours Corp, Ricky Reyes and COCOLIFE.

Aklan’s Product Showcase in Iloilo opens
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL
(Akeanon) 7th product showcase it Aklan , pagahiwaton makaron sa Iloilo / Bombo Radyo

http://www.bomboradyo.com/other_dialect.asp?ID=117752

KALIBO, Aklan – To showcase the best and finest products of Aklan, the 7th Product Showcase will open on November 9 at the event center of SM City Iloilo.
Twenty seven micro, small and medium (MSMEs) exhibitors will bring their unique and world-class products ranging from piña loomwoven fabrics, specialty delicacies, hand-made paper crafts, processed foods, abaca crafts and nito, gifts and décor, home furniture and furnishings, specialty delicacies, clay-based products and bakery.
The one-week product showcase, which will wrap up on November 15, is a venue for local entrepreneurs in Aklan to showcase their globally-competitive products and services for export and domestic market.
It is organized by Hugod Aklanon Producers Association, Inc., the Department of Trade and Industry-Aklan Provincial Office and the provincial government of Aklan under the leadership of Governor Carlito Marquez.
The fair, right at the center of sprawling SM City Iloilo, offers convenient access for the general public and is expected to provide the participating MSMEs the widest possible exposure for their products and services.
In addition to the product showcase, the Aklan’s One-Town One-Product (OTOP), a priority program of the government to create employment and to promote entrepreneurship in the communities, will also be displayed.
The province of Aklan hopes to sustain its status as a leading supplier of world-class piña and native products and as an investment destination for businessmen and entreprenuers.
DTI-Aklan headed by Provincial Director Diosdado Cadena has organized trade fairs last year for local piña and fiber producers in SM Cebu City (3rd Visayas One-Town One-Product Fair), Kalibo, Aklan (Kalibo Ati-Atihan Product Showcase and 9th Aklan Piña and Fiber Festival), SM City Iloilo (6th Aklan Product Showcase), SMX Convention Center in Mall of Asia (International Food Exhibition 2008), Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall (National Trade Fair 2008), generating domestic sales of P9.7565-million.
According to the DTI, last year’s product showcase generated a total of P2.4131-million through direct buyers and booked orders.

Bombo Radyo partners with Aklan Red Cross for 'Dugong Bombo' blood-letting drive
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Blood donors and the Philippine National Red Cross Aklan during the Dugong Bombo project of Bombo Radyo Philippines at Kalibo Plaza Canteen, Kalibo Pastrana Park / PHOTO BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - At least 150 blood donors have donated their blood to the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC)-Aklan through the Dugong Bombo project of Bombo Radyo Philippines at the Kalibo Pastrana Park yesterday.

The blood-letting drive is an annual nationwide campaign in more than 20 cities across the country where Bombo Radyo and Star FM stations operate.

The activity coincides with the birthday celebration of Bombo Radyo president and chief executive Dr. Rogelio M. Florete.

Dubbed, "A Little Pain...A Life to Gain", the Dugong Bombo project aims to promote blood donation to the public and is proud to be involved in the Red Cross campaign to provide a ready pool of blood donors in times of disasters or emergencies.

DyIN Kalibo station manager Eril Ibardolasa has commended the volunteer donors for donating blood and the local sponsors and supporters of the noble project including the Philippine Army personnel from the 12th Infantry Battalion who also took part in the blood-letting campaign.

"This is the biggest Dugong Bombo program in the province, as more and more volunteers donated their blood to such a remarkable cause. You can save lives by donating blood and volunteering at the Red Cross," Ibardolasa said.

Meanwhile, PNRC chairman and Senator Richard Gordon urged more Filipinos to donate blood during the lean months to serve the increasing demand for blood in the country. He said the Red Cross has strengthened the 143 Program in the communities to ensure adequate blood supply in its blood banks.

By 2010, the Department of Health and PNRC are the only organizations authorized to collect and distribute blood.

Echoes From
BY JOHNNY DAYANG

Political Surveys

Though not faring well in opinion surveys, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro is hardly unperturbed, strongly confident that as next year’s presidential polls are fast approaching, his popularity ratings will soar, given the emerging groundswell of support for him.
As my good friend Congressman Rodolfo G. Valencia of the First District, Province of Oriental Mindoro, has confided, Gibo – as the defense chief is being fondly called by colleagues – has slowly but surely gained significant grounds in this political battle, contrary to what some self-serving surveys say.
To cite an example, the just-concluded mock polls of the House of Representatives showed an overwhelming popular choice by legislators of Gibo not only as the party’s standard bearer, but also as the country’s next president. He is a bar topnotcher and a former congressman representing Tarlac.
Like Valencia, a former Liberal Party stalwart, now a Lakas-Kampi-NUCD-CMD convert, most of the political analysts doubt the accuracy of surveys in gauging voters’ preferences. To say the least, these tend to be biased in favor of those who commissioned and paid for the conduct of opinion polls.
Sentiments are highly fluid and tentative and can fluctuate anytime depending on the political climate.
If we recall, there were candidates in previous elections who failed miserably in opinion ratings. Yet, surprisingly, they handily won with more votes that what pollsters had earlier speculated. And for sure, such pattern of election outcome may prevail again.
Unlike in the past, Filipinos voters are now matured and highly discerning and discriminating, not easily swayed by grandstanding, campaign promises or propaganda barrage.
Not even wealth, celebrity status or purportedly democracy can diminish the people’s untiring clamor for a decent, honest and responsible government they can call their own.
They had learned bitter lessons from electing public officials who turned out to be morally bankrupt, inept and unfit.
This time, it will be a different story. It is likely that voters will go along with presidential aspirants who have proven leadership qualities, long term vision and the noblest interests of the nation in mind and at heart.
While he has the full backing of the party in power, Gibo – who comes from a family of public servants – wants to endear himself to the electorate, preferring to stand on his own merits – youth, idealism and unwavering commitment to serve.

'All-Pinoy' Winter League basketball in Ireland
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

The heat is on for the 1st Winter League Basketball Tournament at Charlesland in Ireland on November 7.
Organized by Friends of Charlesland (FOC) Ireland, a total of six teams will vie for this year's "Papawis sa Tag-ulan" basketball crown at the newly constructed Shoreline Recreation and Swimming Center every Saturday.
Filipinos legally residing in Ireland, mostly nurses and care assistants will suit up for Xevian, Charlesland, All-Savings, St. Columcilles, Fabrero and Dun Laogshire teams in a double-round robin elimination for a ten-week season.
Tyrone Zabal of Kalibo, Aklan said the FOC, which was established in 2007, is an organization of Filipino families living in Charlesland, Greystones in County Wicklow.
"FOC was primarily formed for family activities like summer fest and christmas parties. The group is planning also to organize the Summer league in April to unify the Filipino communities in the area and to bring the families closer together," said Zabal, who is supported by Lorenz Sadio, Cris Espino and Paul Dagbay in the first-ever basketball tournament of FOC Ireland.
ABS-CBN Balitang Europe-Ireland will cover the opening ceremony on November 7. In the first game, Dun Laogshire battles Xevian while St. Columcilles collides Charlesland in the main game.
County Wicklow is one of the counties of Ireland, within the province of Leinster. Among its main towns include Greystones in the east coast.

Fastrack Aklan River dredging, Aklan SP urges DPWH
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin

KALIBO, Aklan – Public Works and Highways legal counsel Mary Grace Lim allays fears of the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan members in the significant delay of project implementation of the proposed Aklan River dredging project.
The P100-milion fund sourced from the Calamity Fund of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for 2009 was supposed to start on June 18, 2009 for the dredging and excavation of the heavily silted Aklan River.
Lim said the suspension pending approval of the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has caused the delay of the initial implementation of the P100-million dredging project.
The project directly supervised by the DPWH regional office incurred a negative slippage of 6.87 percent as of September 2009, although, the project was temporarily suspended pending the approval of ECC application.
”The original plan and scope of work need no ECC since the dredged materials are disposed along the riverbanks, however, with the revised plan between the DPWH and the provincial government, we have to wait for the ECC of DENR for the disposal outside the original areas,” Lim said before the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan members in session yesterday.
Adding to the delay is the underwater investigation reports of a team of contractual divers this week to assess the Aklan River prior to approval and issuance of ECC.
BIG WORRY

Aklan SP member Rodson Mayor, for his part, urged the DPWH to expedite the ECC after typhoon Frank devastated the province and submerged the towns along the Aklan River of mudflows last year.

"Aklanons developed that kind of panic and are worried that the Aklan River would overflow again from heavy rains, forcing evacuations of displaced families as the flood threatened low-lying areas along the riverbank," he said.

Last July, Mayor said, DPWH regional director Rolando Asis, Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas and Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez had discussed the implementation of the dredging project in consultation with the local chief executives.

AKLAN RIVER DREDGING

The project involves the dredging of the existing river width to a maximum 600 meters from the mouth of the Aklan River, an 80-kilometer river from upstream of Libacao with an elevation of 1,320 above sea level transversing to the towns of Kalibo and Numancia near Sibuyan Sea.
The identified disposal areas of the total estimated 202,000 cubic meters of waste materials are to the left and right side easement along the river extending 20 to 30 meters on both banks for 44,000 cubic meters, which could extend up to 400 meters, the enhancement of the beach to accommodate at least 25,000 cubic meters and the alternative site at the mouth of the Aklan River-Sibuyan Sea for 133,000 cubic meters of materials.
The initial plan is to utilize the easement or the existing riverbanks in the disposal and to provide safety measures by providing sand bags to ensure the dredged materials will not go back to the Aklan River.
The proposed width of dredging is from 350 to 600 meters and the depth of excavation is ranging from 0.50 meter to 2 meters depending on the cross-section of the Aklan River.
Lim said the province has requested with DPWH and the winning contractor to dispose the waste materials for beach nourishment near the mouth of the Aklan River.
The contractor, Lim added, could also enter into a service contract with the provincial government using the newly acquired dredging machines to augment the implementation of the dredging project.
The project was awarded to International Builders Corporation last June 2009 for the repair and rehabilitation of Aklan River Control and dredging for 510 calendar days.
DELAY DREDGING PROJECT

Lim said the Iloilo River dredging project sourced from the initial P481-million fund approved by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is also suspended since the DENR has yet to complete the inventory of mangroves within the dredging site.

It was learned that environmentalists questioned the cutting of mangrove trees along the Dungon creek without the necessary permits from DENR.
Meanwhile. Provincial Engineer Victory Fernandez said the dredging machines of the province are operational next month.

US DOJ-led investigative trainings for Aklan cops underway
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

(Akeanon) US, magapanguna sa training it mga pulis sa Aklan / Bombo Radyo
http://www.bomboradyo.com/other_dialect.asp?ID=117218

KALIBO, Aklan - The Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) under the leadership of Senior Supt. Epifanio Bragais, Jr. will undergo Integrated Transformation Program (ITP) trainings in Boracay Island and the capital town of Kalibo this November.
The trainings, facilitated and funded by the United States Department of Justice International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program (ICITAP), will run from November 9 to December 18, 2009 at Casa Pilar Beach Resort in Boracay Island and at the Gov. Corazon L. Cabagnot Tourism and Training Center in Barangay Old Buswang, this town.
Bragais said the ICITAP offers trainings to Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel to enhance their investigative and administrative capabilities with focus on crime scene investigation, community policing and instructor development.

Bragais, who assumed as Aklan police director two months ago, stressed that Kalibo police station and the Boracay Special Tourist Protection Office (BSTPO) are also cited as Model Police Station (MPS) projects.
Three APPO police instructors - Police Officer 3 Jose Rupe Panganonong, APPO deputy Public Information Officer Police Officer 2 Nida Gregas and Police Officer 2 Aubrey Taladtad of the Women and Children' Concern Desk will assist in the ICITAP trainings, he added.

Gregas said ICITAP offers basic and advanced training courses on Narcotics Interdiction for operations and anti-narcotics operatives, Crime Scene Photography with First Responders and Crime Laboratory personnel, Technical Writing and Public Speaking, Human Rights for Desk Officers, Executive Development and Leadership and Restorative Justice and Juvenile Justice.

Last year, ICITAP conducted Model Police Trainings throughout the country on law enforcement operations to strengthen community relationships and to upgrade the capabilities and improve the services in the police station level.

Aside from comprehensive trainings to support the ITP, the ICITAP has been working closely with APPO by donating specialized equipments for the Aklan policemen. A three-storey new police building inside the Camp Pastor Martelino is being constructed to complement the ICITAP technical trainings and assistance.
Meanwhile, the APPO held its first Imam/Muslim Leaders Summit at Camp Pastor Martelino last week to address issues and concerns in the province.

Bragais said the summit for Boracay and Kalibo Muslim Associations and policemen assigned in Salaam desks also promote bilateral working relations with the Muslim community.

"They (Muslim community leaders) assure us their willingness and partnership with the PNP in the campaign against criminality," the police director said.

Yiassou!
BY JINGGOY I. SALVADOR

If you hear this word when strolling along the white beach path of Boracay, smile back and say yiassou. This is hello in Greek and chances are you are in front of a Greek restaurant.
A stone's throw away form D'Mall towards Station 1 is the spot that used to be Caribo, a Mediterranean themed restaurant but now this is where Zuzuni, a Greek bistro, stands.
A white edifice blending with the white sand with an idyllic view of the crystal clear waters of the ocean, everything about the place spells Greece, so Mykonos, and if you just daydream a little, you might just think you are indeed in the Mediterranean.
With so many restaurants, along with hotels and other retail commercial brands, cropping up like mushrooms along the shores of this famous island, the food joints have now to deal with niche specialties.
You have to be different and stand out from the rest to be able to survive in the now cut throat businesses of Boracay.
The best venture is the one you love and know best they say. For Zuzuni, a Greek restaurant plus a couple of rooms for rent on the second level (maximizing the opportunity is always best) is the logical choice- the owner is- ta-dah- Greek!
Zuzuni's interiors are far from Greek though, but it is very striking. The interior wall is in stark contrast with the all white color of the structure. It is accented in a brick red hue with an assortment of framed mirrors donning the wall.
As said, the interior designer is OC and each suspended mirror was measured at an appropriate distance from each other, from the ceiling and from the tip of fixed backrest of the seats abutting the wall. Just a trivia, you might want to take notice of this detail when you make it to this joint.
But it was food that we came here for. Everything on the well-appointed menu was tempting but I have to go for the regular diners' recommendation and yes, the best-sellers. Dishes served in here are not entirely Greek, some are fusion dishes which makes it more exciting to the palate.
And it was a fusion dish I ordered. Not a fan of feasting on meat, I just had to try the lamb adobo, upon suggestion of course. The rest of the gang ordered, the Greek sandwich, gyros, the resto's famous signature dish, the Z burgur, and the chicken ala kiev-there must be something Greek in there to end up in the menu.
Like I said, the Habagat weather can either whet up your appetite or turn you into a couch potato or both. An early hearty dinner and walk home after the feast is advisable if you want to burn a few of those calorie intake before you turn into your slothful state in your room.
Over all, the Greek episode was a good one. I will surely be back in this joint and would want to try the rest of the items in the menu. But in the mean time, everyone has to have the island potion- alcohol- before heading home, which might be the next day. That is ample time to burn the calories I was talking about.
To great food and fabulous company, efcaristo! That's "thank you" in Greek. (Some dish shots from Zuzuni website)
(For comments and suggestions, e-mail me at jinggoysalvador@gmail.com. I promise not to promise to reply right away.)

Aklan guv hails EEDD’s contribution to development
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez hailed the contributions of Economic Enterprise Development Department (EEDD) to the development of the province.
EEDD is an independent department created by the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan to generate additional revenues for the projects and programs of the provincial government.
“Aklan, to be classified as first class province by the Department of Finance before year end, is allocating P392-million EEDD annual budget for the operation of the provincial government by 2010,” Marquez said.
The budget is 20 percent higher than the approved budget of P327.249-million for 2009.
Marquez said the provincial government is optimistic that Caticlan and Cagban ports, two major tourism assets in Malay, Aklan, would earn P80 million this year.
The jetty ports, for October alone, generated at least P4-million, a slight decrease compared to the P4.5-million collections last year owing from cancelled pump boat trips from Caticlan to Cagban ports due to bad weather.
From January 1 to October 27, the jetty ports collected P66.970-million. A total of 33,648 tourist arrivals also visited the country’s premier tourist destination last month.
Two hospital districts in Altavas and Ibajay, the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital in the capital town of Kalibo and the Mines and Geosciences Development Services, among others, are included in the EEDD.
“The collections from sand and gravel quarry permittees from January 6 to October 28 totaled P4.70-million that could reach P5-million by December, thanks to our mines inspectors,” Marquez said.
Meanwhile, the governor said the province will implement the Modified Position Classification System for government personnel next year to provide more benefits through monthly salary increases
Asst. Department Head Rex Buencamino stressed the EEDD has created mandatory positions and granted additional benefits for the provincial government workers since 2006.

Las Piñas Boys Choir 'Salamat' concert on November 6

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – World champion Las Piñas Boys Choir (LPBC) goes to Kalibo for a provincial tour to share its world-class talent and music on November 6.
Celebrating its 40 years of existence, the world class Las Piñas Boys Choir will perform at Saint John the Baptist Cathedral dubbed ‘Salamat, A Celebration of Glorious Heritage (1969-2009)’ to feature the choir’s musical achievement and continuing legacy.
The Philippine Tour in Aklan is an opportunity to experience, appreciate and enrich the Filipino ethnicity in promoting and preserving the nations advocate for the love of Philippine Music and Arts.
This November, the 20-member choir from St. Joseph Church in Las Piñas also performs in Bohol, Cebu, Iloilo, and Bacolod City in Negros Oriental in the Visayas for their Salamat (salamat at alamat; thanksgiving and origin) tour.

The choir was proclaimed as world champion in the Children’s Choir Category in the 5th World Choir Games, the largest choir competition of the world last July 9 to 19, 2008 in Graz, Austria besting more than 450 choirs and 20,000 singers from 93 countries including United States, Greece, Estonia, Great Britain, Russia and South Africa.

The feat of Las Piñas Boys Choir in the World Choir Games, held every every two years in different countries, exhibits the excellence of the global Pinoys whose dedication and commitment to their craft bring honor and pride to the country.

It also got the Silver Medal in the Musica Sacra Category participated in by professional and adult choirs of around 40-80 members. Another choir group Kilyawan Boys’ Choir of Quezon City was declared champion in the prestigious international competition in Choral Acapella Performers of Contemporary Music category.

LBPC is under the artistic direction of Prof. Armando Salarza and the choir members are George Angeles II, Bernard Paolo Caro, Alvin Joshua Cayetano, Josiah de los Santos, Justin Claude Fernandez, Jadlae Aivan Fernandez, Joseph Vincent Gregorio, Carl Paolo Hernandez, Japheth Juanillo, Herman Manalang, Jhansseen Martinez, Dhonel Martinicio, Alwyn Dominique Panoso, Rupert Kim Pastrana, Ramon Paolo Quintero, Chazz Reyes, Karlo Reyes, Francis David Salonga, Joshua Gabriel, and Samiley and Joe Sengson.

The management team is headed by Msgr. Albert Venus, proud son of New Washington, Aklan and Fr. Didoy Molina. The choir is supported by arranger and accompanist Alejandro Consolacion II and staff January Hernandez and Norie Salarza.

LPBC was founded in 1969 by a Belgian priest Rev. Fr. Leo Renier, an assistant parish priest at St. Joseph Parish, to complement the historic Bamboo Organ.
In 1974, LPBC earned first place in the Third National Competition of Children’s Choirs. At the Cultural Center of the Philippines, they joined in performances and productions such as Bernstein’s Mass (1976), Brahms’ Requiem (1978), Puccini’s La Tosca with the San Francisco Opera (1979), Mozart’s Magic Flute with the Opera Company of Boston (1983) Bizet’s Carmen (1985) and Britten’s War Requiem (1992).

250 families of Kalibo fire evacuated at Aklan Sports Complex

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Close to 250 families were evacuated at the Aklan Sports Complex as temporary shelter of Kalibo fire victims.
Pete Ruiz of the Provincial Public Safety and Management Office said Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez ordered the opening of Aklan Sports Complex as evacuation and relief center.
The two-hour blaze destroyed P10-million in property and more than 400 houses were razed to the ground in the heavily populated area of C. Laserna yesterday afternoon.
A total of 1,124 people sought refuge to Aklan Sports Complex after the mid-afternoon fire of still undetermined origin struck their houses made of light materials while others set up tents near the Kalibo-Numancia bridge.

Aklan Sports Complex in Capitol grounds can accommodate 2,500 people and served as the provincial disaster coordinating area for rescuers and fire volunteers.
"Mostly children left homeless are evacuated in Aklan Sports Complex and are attended by our rural health unit and social workers. Local police are also deployed in affected C. Laserna area to prevent looting since fire victims are complaining of the rampant looting what was left of their belongings," Ruiz said.

A child staying in the Aklan Sports Complex was brought to the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital for treatment after the victim showed signs of dehydration. A municipal auxiliary police identified as Marlon Maribojo was also injured when he fell from a house he tried to rescue from fire.

Ruiz said firefighters from Ivisan, Sapian, Roxas City, Pontevedra and Dumalag in Capiz province, Culasi and Pandan in Antique and fire and rescue team from Kalibo International Airport responded to the fire alarm and helped the Bureau of Fire Protection-Aklan to control the blaze, the worst fire incident that hit the capital town this year.

Fire razed 500 houses in Kalibo
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - More than 400 families were left homeless by a two-hour fire that hit the interior portion of the heavily populated area of this capital town today.

The fire broke out at around 2 p.m. with fire fighters from the neighboring towns of Altavas, Numancia, Balete, Ibajay and New Washington helping the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Kalibo to control the blaze.
Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo said the fire gutted houses made mostly of light materials that swept the C. Laserna area.
"We have yet to determine the origin and the estimated damage of the fire. The cause of the blaze is under investigation," he said.

The fire quickly spread throughout Purok 5, 4, 3 and 2 destroying the 500 shanties in the second fire reported in C. Laserna area since January 2005.
Firemen from Capiz and Antique provinces and the Kalibo airport firetruck also came to help but were hampered by narrow alleys, thick smoke and strong winds leading to the interior portions of C. Laserna.

No casualties or major injuries were reported, the authorities said.

Rebaldo also instructed the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) to provide temporary shelter, food and medicines to the displaced families.

Meanwhile, Pete Ruiz of Provincial Public Safety and Management Office, Senior Superintendent Epifanio Bragais, Jr. and Kalibo police chief Senior Insp. Arnold Laguerta and fire volunteers responded to the fire alarm to maintain peace and order and traffic.

Fire victims said the fire apparently started in Purok 5 from a kitchen while cooking in an open-flame and it was left unattended.

Rebaldo said the victims would be temporarily housed in Kalibo Magsaysay Park and Kalibo Pilot Elementary School while some displaced families put up their shelters using materials salvaged from the burned houses near the Aklan River bank

HELPLESS

Nading, a 50-year resident of Purok 2, could only watch helplessly as the fire razed her home. She saved her clothes and her two children out of the house when the fire easily spread.
Another victim identified as 45-year old Linda embraced the Sto. Niño wooden statue while the fire engulfed her shanty in Purok 5. She was unhurt.

BIG HELP

Ruiz said at least 12 firetrucks from the neighboring towns, fire volunteers and the quick-response teams from the Aklan Police Provincial Office responded to the fire incident.

"The fire is out in about two hours in C. Laserna area, but damaged at least P5-million in properties by the fire since most houses are constructed of light materials," he said.

With the fire incidents, Ruiz encouraged the local government units to put up fire hydrants in strategic areas for fire protection in densely populated areas.

Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez said the Aklan Sports Complex is ready to accommodate the displaced families, especially those left with nothing.

Philippine National Red Cross also extended assistance to the fire victims, a radio report said.

DENR drawing up list of Boracay violators

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is set to come up with a list of violators of environmental laws in Boracay within the first week of November “to facilitate the filing of appropriate administrative as well as criminal charges” against them.
In a memorandum issued last Oct. 26, DENR Secretary Lito Atienza ordered Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) director Julian Amador to “identify all establishments that continuously failed to comply with environmental laws,” including existing rules and regulations that the department is enforcing on the 1,006-hectare resort island.
“I have a standing order to our people to go after the violators, whoever gets hurt,” he said. “Anyone proven to have violated the laws will go to jail.”
He also directed the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau and the EMB regional office in Iloilo City to check allegations that a Boracay resort has been built on top of coral reefs.
Atienza gave Amador two weeks to submit a “comprehensive report” giving full details of violations, saying the move was “to ensure that no further environmental damage occurs within and around the island of Boracay while various issues concerning its protection and conservation are being assessed.” / The Philippine Star

Kalibo celebrates founding day on November 3
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - The town of Kalibo, one of the oldest municipalities in the country, commemorates its founding anniversary on November 3.

Mayor Raymar Rebaldo said the observance of the founding rites has evolved into a celebration of independence of this town of Kalibo, the home of many historical and eco-tourism spots.

The first set of activities will be highlighted by a thanksgiving mass at Saint John the Baptist Cathedral in the morning followed by Lahi ng Laro demonstration games at the historic Kalibo Pastrana Park and the blessing and inauguration of the redesigned Gomburza Shrine and Memorandum of Agreement signing at the corner of Veterans Avenue and J. Magno.

"A proposed Plazoleta in front of the Kalibo Municipal Town Hall and the Department of Education Office will be set up. We will be transforming the Plazoleta into a venue of municipal activities and programs," Rebaldo said during the regular Kapihan sa Aklan sponsored by Aklan Media Forum, Aklan Press Club and the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc.

A Foundation Day commemorative program, 'Happy Birthday' Kalibo Concert at Kalibo Pastrana Park and the opening salvo of the 2010 Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival will highlight the historic event in the evening.

Rebaldo enacted Ordinance No. 2005-049 on October 6, 2005 declaring November 3, 1571 as the town’s Foundation Day and instituting the celebration of Kalibo Day every November 3.

In a research output of Profesor John Barrios of the Kalibo Council for Culture and the Arts (KCCA), the date November 3, 1571 in the notarized Spanish document dated June 2, 1576 was the first written date relating to the Spanish colonial administration in Aclan/Calivo under the encomienda system instituted by the first Governor and Captain-General Miguel Lopez de Legazpi.

"The date November 3, 1571, as it appeared in the notarized Spanish document dated June 2, 1576, was the first written date relating to the Spanish colonial administration in Aclan/Calivo under the encomienda system instituted by the first Governor and Captain - General Miguel Lopez de Legazpi,” he said.
In his output research entitled “Calivo: The Founding of a Town,” Barrios also spelled out that “although Juan Fernandez’ Monogratias de los Pueblos de la Isla Panay points to 1581 as foundation year of Kalibo, investigation would reveal that it was only the date of acceptance of the Agustinian fathers of the convent of Aclan and its respective visitas.”

Sweet victory for Goodwill Bowling Cup champ
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Alpha Media demolished Judiciary I, 666-594, to capture the 1st Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Aklan Media-Judiciary Goodwill Bowling Cup at Q-Zone Bowling Center here.
Alpha Media team captain Joselito Edwin Ramos of the Philippine Information Agency rolled 162 pins and southpaw Jethro Laserna of Aklan Media Forum tallied 150 for a 72-margin against top-ranked Judiciary I in the finals.
Ron Bautista of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo also contributed 144 pins, Alwin dela Cruz of IBC DyRG Budyong had 116 and Ronel Barrida of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo scored 94 for the Alpha Media.
Judiciary I relied on Samuel de Pedro with 144, Cris Gubatina had 125 and Greg Tanesa posted 120, Efren Galvan with 104 and George Wendell Villanueva with 101.

Alpha Media also gets revenge against Judiciary I, who had managed to beat them, 647-581, in the eliminations.

Judiciary II repulsed the challenge of Charlie Media, 618-479, in the battle for third place.
Ramon Manuel Mayor topped the Judiciary II with 136 pins while Danilo Yap added 127 and Alvin Mindanao had 130. Mariz Peralta also tallied 124 pins and Judge Lollie Ureta-Villaruel finished with 101 for Judiciary II.
With the victory of Judiciary II, Charlie Media felled 139 pins en route to drop its four straight defeats starting from the single round-robin eliminations.
Arnel Relampago of Kalibo Cable Television Network posted 124 pins, Ronnel Irodestan of CBIS Hot FM had 101 while the trio of Lucy Villaruel of IBC DyRG Budyong, Hagbong dela Cruz of Aklan Reporter and CBIS Hot FM honorary station manager and Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo combined for 254 pins.

Bravo Media bannered by veteran journalist Odon Bandiola wound up fifth and IBP-Aklan in sixth in the final standings.
Meanwhile, Charlie Media led the six-team bowling cup with 3257 six-game total to grab the Highest Team Score award. Mayor of Judiciary II got the Highest Individual Score (193) and Judge Ureta-Villaruel on the women’s side with 141 pins at the close of the six-day goodwill bowling tournament.
The weeklong bowling cup was supported by IBP-Aklan, Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. Aklan Media Forum, Aklan Police and Defense Press Corps, Aklan Press Club, Aklan United Media Association and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines.
It is the first of a series of tournaments that will promote camaraderie, understanding and sportsmanship and bring together the lawyers, tri-media and the judiciary through annual a friendly game of bowling.

Rock the Kasbah
BY JINGGOY I. SALVADOR

Habagat, sea breeze blowing above normal. There is something in the beach air that somehow whets our appetite.
What is there to do on a slow weekday night when the island of Boracay is devoid of the weekend flurry but to go on a food trip?
That's exactly what my island posse did -- gave in to the call of our bellies.
Off the busy district of D' Mall and the island's main road, this beach front restaurant at Station 1 is in "seclusion" if you are one who is not used to hiking the shoreline from the usual dining spots along the Station 1 and 2 strip.
It is best if you are with company who knows what cuisine they want to dive in when the question of where to eat pops up.
Everyone knows that that is quite a difficult situation to settle when several taste buds have to be satisfied. But if it's a localized citizen of Boracay recommends, then that's what the "tourists" should do.
Health conscious couples Kim and Nikki are fans of this joint, the Kasbah restaurant, a small dining spot in the Fridays and Discovery Shores area that serve Turkish dishes.
Quite an effort to go to on a rainy and windy night. But foodies are never denied of their appetites, thus we braved the elements.
Kasbah's enclosed dining area can pack 20 guests and the rest can enjoy the food al fresco. But on nights like these, no way that can happen. Habagat spells lesser clients so filling this off-the-usual-dining-path rarely happens. Well, at least I think so.
Turkish lamps and mirrors adorn the all whit interior with some items off the menu are for sale -- meaning non-edible products. Kitchen is open if you want to observe how your order is prepared. Pretty much a simple and unpretentious Mediterranean joint.
We were honored with the presence of the house goddess named Josa who came down from her throne and waited on us.
Aside from the favorite orders of the rest, she suggested a few more of their bestsellers that we should try.
It was the basic mezes (starters) of humus and pide, lentil soup and entrees of mixed kebabs of seafood and chicken, kouskous for me and herbed rice for others plus more seafood in curry sauce for the rest of the gang. A serving is good for two.
The rain never dampened the lively conversation amidst the enjoyment of good cuisine. We made the dining experience last as long as we can but not no avail. The spread was just to tasty- to the last bite.
Having rocked the Kasbah with our hearty laughter and appetites, we bid farewell to the goddess Josa, we head on our next stop -- the bars.

Alpha Media, Judiciary I dispute Goodwill Bowling Cup title
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Games Today (Q-Zone Bowling Center)

6 p.m. Alpha Media vs Judiciary I (championship)
Judiciary II vs Charlie Media (3rd place)
7:30 p.m. Awarding Ceremony

KALIBO, Aklan – Alpha Media and Judiciary I downed separate rivals in the cross-over semifinals to arrange a title showdown in the 1st Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Aklan Media-Judiciary Goodwill Bowling Cup today at the Q-Zone Bowling Center here.
The fiery trio of Cris Gubatina, Efren Galvan and George Wendell Villanueva carried the load for Judiciary I, combining for 460 pins to beat Charlie Media, 693-539, a whooping 154-margin in the semifinals, to clinch the first finals slot.
Greg Tanesa also chalked up 122 and Samuel de Pedro had 111 for Judiciary I.
Marlon Salvador of Kalibo Cable Television Network rolled 134, Ronnel Irodestan of CBIS Hot FM scored 137, Hagbong dela Cruz of Aklan Reporter with 128, Winston Carillo of Western Visayas Explorer had 121 and Arnel Relampago of Kalibo Cable Television Network compiled 119 for Charlie Media.
Ron Bautista of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo powered the Alpha Media over Judiciary II, 690-627, with his tournament-high 164 pins, to advance to the finals.
Joselito Edwin Ramos of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) contributed 153, southpaw Jethro Laserna of Aklan Media Forum had 135, Alwin dela Cruz of IBC DyRG Budyong posted 123 and Ronel Barrida of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo with 115 for the Alpha Media.
Danilo Yap led the Judiciary II with 163 pins backed up by Ramon Manuel Mayor with 145, Alvin Mindanao had 119, Mariz Peralta tallied 108 and Judge Lollie Ureta-Villaruel had 92 pins.
Alpha Media and Judiciary I will meet at 6 p.m. today to dispute the title in this tournament while Charlie Media and Judiciary II battle for third place.

Goodwill Bowling Cup semifinals on

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Games Today (Semifinals)

5 :30 p.m. Alpha Media vs Judiciary II

Judiciary I vs Charlie Media

KALIBO, Aklan - Top four teams advanced to the semifinals of the 1st Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Aklan Media-Judiciary Goodwill Bowling Cup at the close of the elimination round at Q-Zone Bowling Center.

Alpha Media (4-1) clinched the second semifinal berth after knocking down winless IBP-Aklan, 642-520 last night. Joselito Edwin Ramos of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) dished out 168 pinfalls while Jethro Laserna of Aklan Media Forum added 139, Ron Bautista of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo had 123, Alwin dela Cruz of IBC DyRG Budyong with 108 and Ronel Barrida of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo with 104 pinfalls for the Alpha Media.

Flosemer Cris Gonzales scored 120 pinfalls backed by Reynaldo Peralta, Jr. with 106, Ervie Taytayon with 103 and Brian Calizo had 100 pinfalls for IBP-Aklan, who lost its five games in as many starts of the single round robin elims.

Judiciary II (3-2) posted its third straight victory by beating frontrunner Judiciary I to advance to the next round of the tournament. Danilo Yap rolled 141 pinfalls, Alvin Mindanao tallied 132 and Lollie Ureta-Villaruel added 117 for Judiciary II.

Charlie Media (3-2) swept all its first three elimination matches but lost to Alpha Media, and Judiciary I in their last two games. With the twin loss, Charlie Media booked the last berth into the semifinals.

Two teams - Bravo and IBP-Aklan were eliminated at the end of the elimination round after finishing fifth and sixth, respectively.

Powered by Ronnel Irodestan and Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo of CBIS Hot FM, Marlon Salvador and Arnel Relampago of Kalibo Cable Television Network, Ambrosio Villorente, Jr. of Madyaas Pen, Lucy Villaruel of IBC DyRG Budyong, Winston Carillo of Western Visayas Explorer and Hagbong dela Cruz of Aklan Reporter, the Charlie Media will dispute the first finals berth against Judiciary I at 5:30 p.m today.

Cris Gubatina, George Wendell Villanueva, Greg Tanesa, Efren Galvan and Samuel de Pedro will lead the Judiciary I, who defeated the Charlie Media, 663-616 in the elimination round.

In other semifinal match, Alpha Media tries to repeat its 662-643 conquest of Judiciary II in the elims to become the second team to reach the finals.

Boracay Authority to manage the island - DOT
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

BORACAY - Tourism regional director Edwin Trompeta has reiterated his proposal to establish a Boracay Authority to manage and implement environmental laws in the premier tourist beach destination.

Trompeta said the Boracay West Cove Resort built atop a coral reef in Barangay Balabag and its unhampered constructions of buildings in no-build zone areas violated the enviromental laws of the island.

"There is an urgent call for a Boracay Authority to oversee the development of tourism projects and enforcement of laws and ordinances in the island. To ensure order and to protect the island from environmental degradation, stakeholders and local officials should get their acts together," he said.

Trompeta said, without this Boracay Authority, the island resort attracting more than 500,000 tourists and P13-billion tourism receipts yearly, would continue to face unsolved environmental problems in the next few years.

The regional director said the resort has been operating without business and other permits since 2007. Business groups in the island also expressed concerns over the continued violations of Boracay West Cove Resort owned by businessman Crisostomo Aquino, a close associate of Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao and Environment Secretary Joselito Atienza.

Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores said the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) should crack down violators of environmental laws, including the Boracay West Cove Resort, to sustain the development in the island.

Meanwhile, House Bill No. 5835 seeking for the creation of Boracay Island Special Tourism Zone Tourism Authority authored by Miraflores is pending with the Committee on Tourism.

Judiciary I unbeaten in Goodwill Bowling Cup
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Team Standings W L

Judiciary I 4 0
Charlie Media 3 2
Alpha Media 2 1
Judiciary II 2 2
Bravo Media 1 3
IBP-Aklan 0 4

KALIBO, Aklan – Judiciary I routed the Charlie Media in the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Aklan Media-Judiciary Goodwill Bowling Cup in a battle of leaders at the Q-Zone Bowling Center.
Cris Gubatina and Samuel de Pedro led the Judiciary I with similar 157 pinfalls in beating the Charlie Media, 663-616, for Judiciary I fourth straight win in as many games.
Arnel Relampago of Kalibo Cable Television Network had 165 and Ambrosio Villorente, Jr. of Madyaas Pen scored 122 pinfalls to lead the Charlie Media.
Alpha Media (2-1), meanwhile, also rapped the Charlie Media by 17 pinfalls to claim its second straight triumph and stay on track for a semifinals seat. Joselito Edwin Ramos of Philippine Information Agency (PIA) tallied 171 pinfalls, Ron Bautista of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo contributed 152, Alwin Dela Cruz of IBC DyRG Budyong with 141 and Jethro Laserna of Aklan Media Forum with 130 pinfalls for Alpha Media, 687-670 victory against Charlie Media.
Semifinalist Charlie Media, bannered by Ronel Irodestan of CBIS Hot FM and Winston Carillo of Western Visayas Explorer, skidded to its second straight defeat at the close of their elimination matches (3-2).
Judiciary II (2-2) also beat the IBP-Aklan, 606-514 and smashed Bravo Media, 784-575 for its second straight win in the elimination tourney. Danilo Yap closed out with 147 pinfalls, Judge Lollie Ureta-Villaruel with 141 and Alvin Mindanao wound up with 120 pinfalls leading the Judiciary II against winless IBP-Aklan.
Yap also churned out 174 pinfalls while Ramon Manuel Mayor and Villaruel backed up 162 and 164, respectively, to cap their triumphant campaign against the rated Bravo Media.
Odon Bandiola of Aklan Media Forum hauled 176 and William Arguelles came away with 144 pinfalls for the Bravo Media (1-3), who dropped its last matches in the single-round robin tournament.
In today’s matches, Judiciary I will go for a five-game elimination round sweep versus Judiciary II and Alpha Media collides Bravo Media at 5 p.m. At 7 p.m., Alpha Media' final assignment will be against IBP-Aklan, the last day of the elimination round.

Judiciary II remains in the hunt for the last seat in the Final Four after hiking their win-loss card to 2-2. With 2-1, Alpha Media needs to win its last two matches to grab the No. 2 spot and the semis bonus.

SEAIR sees increase in passenger traffic
BY DWIGHT SARGA

South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR), the second-oldest airlines in the country which focuses in leisure travel, sees an increase in its passengers going to tourism destinations in the country.
SEAIR President Avelino Zapanta said that the company is experiencing growth in air travel month-on-month and the recent typhoons did not affect air sales as 60 percent to 70 percent of their passengers are foreigners going to tourist destinations in the country, especially in Boracay.

"We hope to recover from last year. Everybody (airline companies) lost last year," he said.
Zapanta said that SEAIR is even expecting more passengers with the expected arrival of OFWs who would be coming home as well as traffic that would be created by more remittances.
When OFWs go home and visit their families, it is expected that they would also visit tourist destinations in the country like Boracay. This, in turn, would increase SEAIR’s passengers, Zapanta said. He said that more Filipinos, especially OFWs, are now beginning to want to go to Boracay.
Zapanta said that SEAIR would increase its flights in the Manila to Caticlan route to 32 flights by December from the current 27 flights as they are expecting an increase in passengers.
This would result to an increased SEAIR traffic, giving more revenues to the company. "More traffic, more revenues to come," he said.
He said that mid November to January is the peak season for domestic travel to to Boracay, while foreign tourists go to Boracay almost all-year round.
SEAIR is the sole operator of the Manila-Caticlan route, a much shorter route to Boracay compared to the Manila-Kalibo route that the Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Zest Airways service.
Zapanta said that SEAIR is also providing their passengers an added extra-customer service by carrying their customers straight to Boracay after landing to Caticlan.
"We go the extra distance," he said. Zapanta said that they are also planning to open their services in other tourist destinations such as Marinduque, Masbate and La Union this year. For Marinduque, SEAIR is now waiting for the government to approve their permit; while for Masbate and La Union, SEAIR is waiting for the government to finish the construction of the airports this year.

New York Consul inducts Aklan Association Eastern USA officers
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Consul General of the Philippine Consulate – New York Cecilia B. Rebong inducted the new set of officers of Aklan Association Eastern USA, Inc. at the Fiesta in Wood-Ridge, New Jersey last week.

Lanalie Rogan is the new president of Aklan Association Eastern USA (AAEUSA), a non-profit organization of Filipino communities in the East Coast of the United States for 2009-2011.
Other officers inducted on October 17 by Consul Rebong were Executive Vice President Mark Romero, Jerel Malapit (1st Vice President), Bonito Ycay (2nd Vice President), Lei-Ann Sarabia (Secretary), Jeline Basconcillo (Assistant Secretary), Anne Repayo (Treasurer) and Eric Abello (Assistant Treasurer).

Also inducted were Josie Mabasa and Jamie Fabros (Auditors), Ryan Romero and Gerey Gerardo (PROs), Luther Tamayo, Dino Reloj and Anthony Torres (Business Managers), Patrick Pelayo and Ashley Almario (Press Coordinators), Lovell Rogan, Elna Prado and Belma Abello (Project and Events Coordinators) and Fr. Justo Beltran (Spiritual Adviser).

Every year the AAEUSA sponsors social and philanthropic events to promote the Filipino heritage and culture and to foster interaction and dialog in the governmental, professional and business sectors between the Filipino communities in the United States and in the Philippines.
Last year, AAEUSA donated $10,000 to typhoon Frank victims in Aklan and purchased hospital beds for the Altavas District Hospital in support of Altavasnon USA/Canada project in 2005.
The induction, held every two years by one of the leading Filipino-American organization in United States, was graced by Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo and His Excellency the Honorable Willy C. Gaa, the Philippine Ambassador to the United States of America with special dance performance by Craig and Samantha Abaya-Campos, the Junior Champions on Dancing With The Stars, Season 7.
AAEUSA welcomed Vice Governor Calizo-Quimpo and her husband Atty. Reynaldo Quimpo during a dinner on October 16 at Antica Venezia, an Italian Restaurant in the historic West Village New York City.

A Black Cat Halloween event at Discovery Shores Boracay
The Philippine Star

One can always count on Discovery Shores to pull highly entertaining adventures out of their magic hat, for the young and young at heart.
On October 31, masterful and imaginative tricks and treats are in store for the whole family. The Discovery Shores stage is set to inspire guests to make the greatest escape of their lives and journey on an unforgettable adventure. All that’s needed is a childlike attitude, and well, in the spirit of unadulterated fun, a cat suit or cat costume!
At 4 p.m. onwards, the magnificent beachfront of Discovery Shores will be transformed into a wonderland. The iconic Halloween Black Cat’s mystique and enchanting allure will conjure wicked surprises for all to enjoy. “Trick or Treat” will take on a new meaning with never-ending treats and tricks that will keep each guest wonderfully amused by live entertainment, kids’ activities, magic shows, and “The Cat House”! The Cat House will transport you to a new dimension — a mysterious portal into one’s childhood fantasies, through the mouth of a giant cat, to discover four whimsical chambers within, and “cat-out-of-the-bag” antics at every corner.
At Sands Restaurant, treats continue with their devilishly delicious dinner “Boo-Fete!” available on Oct. 29 to Nov. 1 at P950++ per person. Enjoy the hauntingly delicious “9 Lives,” the featured specialty drink this October and “Kitten,” a version for the youngsters at P195++ per drink or at P260++ with a special Halloween toy.
This Halloween, whatever costume you wear, one thing is certain: you will not be able to disguise your sheer amusement at such an unforgettable celebration!
Tickets to “Black Cat” are P500 inclusive of activities and giveaways. For inquiries, contact Discovery Shores Boracay at (63-36) 288-4500 or (632) 720-8888 or visit www.discoveryshoresboracay.com.
Discovery Suites, Discovery Country Suites Tagaytay, and Discovery Shores Boracay are owned and developed by The Discovery Leisure Company, and managed by HSAI-Raintree.

Judiciary I, Charlie Media lead
Goodwill Bowling Cup
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Team Standings W L
Charlie Media 3 0
Judiciary I 3 0
Alpha Media 1 1
Bravo Media 1 2
Judiciary II 0 2
IBP-Aklan 0 3

KALIBO, Aklan - Charlie Media reasserted its mastery of Bravo Media, 720-476, to remain unscathed with three victories at the preliminaries of the 1st Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Aklan Media-Judiciary Goodwill Bowling Cup.
Leading the way for Charlie Media were Ronnel Irodestan of CBIS Hot FM, who finished a game-best 183 pinfalls while Winston Carillo of Western Visayas Explorer added 149 and CBIS Hot FM honorary station manager and Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo with 136.
Arnel Relampago of Kalibo Cable Television Network scored 131 and Ambrosio Villorente, Jr. of Madyaas Pen also tallied 121 for Charlie Media.
Odon Bandiola topped the Bravo Media with 120 pinfalls followed by Duddie Balairos of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo with 99.Jujet Reyes of IBC DyRG Budyong contributed 90 and Ronnie Billones of DyIN Bombo Radyo with 91 pinfalls for Bravo Media.

Judiciary I also outplayed Bravo Media, 734-514 and IBP-Aklan, 586-480, to join Charlie Media with identical 3-0 card and boost their semifinals bid.
Cris Gubatina led the Judiciary I attack against Bravo Media with 176 pinfalls, Greg Tanesa scored 166 and Efren Galvan had 136.

Odon Bandiola of Bravo Media finished with 126 pinfalls, Duddie Balairos of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo tallied 108 and Jujet Reyes of IBC DyRG with 95.
Gubatina also fueled the Judiciary I triumph against IBP-Aklan with 138 pinfalls, George Wendell Villanueva added 135 and Samuel de Pedro with 116.
IBP-Aklan dropped their first three games, including one against Judiciary I. Brian Calizo emerged as the highest IBP-Aklan player with 120 pinfalls followed by Flosemer Cris Gonzales with 103 and Reynaldo Peralta, Jr. had 95 pinfalls.
Meanwhile, Alpha Media pulled off its worthiest win in the elimination by defeating Judiciary II, 662-643. Jethro Laserna of the Aklan Media Forum provided the offensive spark for Alpha Media with 156 while Joselito Edwin Ramos of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) added 151 and Ramil Tirazona of RMN DyKR chipped in 147.
Ronel Barrida (105) and Ron Bautista (103), both of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo, also contributed to Alpha Media’s victory last night in this single-round robin tournament at Q-Zone Bowling Center.
With 1-1 record, the third running Alpha Media needs to win today against frontrunning Charlie Media to advance to the cross-over semifinals on October 28.

Kalibo PNP on alert for All Saint's Day
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - The Philippine National Police (PNP) is implementing 'Oplan Kaluluwa' to ensure the security and safety of the public to pay respects to their departed ones in cemeteries.

Kalibo police chief Senior Insp. Arnolito Laguerta said the local police will establish assistance centers in four cemeteries in the capital town and deploy additional police personnel in traffic routes to assist the motorists and commuters.
"The local police units augmented by the Aklan Police Provincial Office and the 601st Provincial Mobile Group are alerted by the presence of unscrupulous individuals taking advantage of the peaceful celebration of All Saint's Day in the province," said Laguerta in the regular weekly forum Kapihan sa Aklan organized by the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), Aklan Media Forum and Aklan Press Club.
Laguerta said plain-clothes policemen and barangay tanods are deployed to secure the people in cemeteries and in public places . The police are also directed to maintain visibility and observe prohibition of carrying of firearms, deadly weapons, karaoke and liquors in public cemeteries.
SPO3 Benny Jones Mendoza, chief of traffic, said traffic re-routing in areas near the cemeteries are implemented for all types of vehicles. The rerouting plans will be observed for the All Saint's Day and All Soul's Day.
"Medical teams from the rural health unit are also put up in assistance centers during the observance in cemeteries," he added.

Charlie Media off to fast start, leads the 1st Goodwill Bowling Cup
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Team Standings W L
Charlie Media 2 0
Judiciary I 1 0
Bravo Media 1 0
Judiciary II 0 1
Alpha Media 0 1
IBP-Aklan 0 2

KALIBO, Aklan – Charlie Media swept its two elimination matches at the start of the 1st Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Aklan Media-Judiciary Goodwill Bowling Cup at Q-Zone Bowling Center last night.

Charlie Media demolished IBP-Aklan, 579-511, with Ronnel Irodestan of CBIS Hot FM rolled 143 pinfalls while Winston Carillo of Western Visayas Explorer added 129 and CBIS honorary station manager and Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo with 123.

Lucy Villaruel of IBC DyRG Budyong had 95 pinfalls and Arnel Relampago of Kalibo Cable Television with 89 for the Charlie Media.IBP-Aklan president Ricardo Ibarreta, Jr. posted 132 pinfalls and Brian Calizo with 112, but the trio of Ervie Taytayon, Christine Candelario-dela Cruz and Reynaldo Peralta, Jr. only scored 267 pinfalls.

Riding the momentum of their 68-pinfalls triumph against IBP-Aklan, the Charlie Media rolled a single-game total of 676 to beat the Judiciary II by 119 pinfalls.

Irodestan led the Charlie Media with 158, Rebaldo scored 153, Hagbong dela Cruz of Aklan Reporter tallied 142, Marlon Salvador and Relampago of Kalibo Cable Television Network combined for 223 pinfalls.
Judge Lollie Ureta-Villaruel came through with 132 pinfalls for the Judiciary II, Danilo Yap toppled 124 pinfalls, Judge Bienvenido Barrios, Jr. tallied 105, Ramon Manuel Felipe Mayor with 120 and Alvin Mindanao with 76 pinfalls.
Cris Gubatina also exploded with a tournament-best 160 pinfalls to power the Judiciary I to a 647-581 victory over the Alpha Media. Samuel de Pedro contributed 129, Greg Tanesa had 127 while George Wendell Villanueva collected 116 pinfalls and Efren Galvan finished with 115 for the Judiciary I.
Joselito Edwin Ramos of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) topped the Alpha Media with 150 pinfalls and Jethro Laserna of Aklan Media Forum chipped in with 137. Ron Bautista and Ronel Barrida of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo also had a combined 232 pinfalls for the Alpha Media.
Bravo Media also handily won their first meeting with IBP-Aklan, 522-378, behind the 136 pinfalls of Odon Bandiola of the Aklan Media Forum, Randy Anthony Rebaldo of CBIS Hot FM dishing out 111 pinfalls and Ronnie Billones of DyIN Bombo Radyo contributed 106.
Gary Vargas of Kalibo Cable Television Network torched the lanes with an 87 and Jomer Soriano of DyIN Bombo Radyo had an 82 for the Bravo Media.
Brian Calizo showed the way for IBP-Aklan with 117 pinfalls while Prosecutor Reynaldo Peralta Jr. turned in 81, Ervie Taytayon collected 71 pinfalls, Christine Candelario-dela Cruz wound up with 55 and Ricardo Ibarreta, Jr. struggled with 54 pinfalls.
In today’s matches, Judiciary I and Bravo Media try to inch closer to tournament-leading Charlie Media as they go up against separate foes.
The two teams are currently in second spot in the standings with win-loss records of 1-0 while Charlie Media is unbeaten in two matches.
Judiciary I tangle with winless IBP-Aklan at 5 p.m. while Bravo Media battles Charlie Media. At 6 p.m. Alpha Media will play against Judiciary II and Bravo Media collides with Judiciary I.

Goodwill Bowling Cup kicks off
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Games Today (Q-Zone Bowling Center)

4 p.m. Opening Ceremony
5 p.m. Alpha Media vs Judiciary I
IBP-Aklan vs Charlie Media

7 p.m. Bravo Media vs IBP-Aklan
Charlie Media vs Judiciary II

KALIBO, Aklan – Alpha Media and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)-Aklan start their bids for a Final Four berth against the formidable Judiciary I and Charlie Media teams today in the six-team 1st Goodwill Bowling Cup at Q-Zone Bowling Center here.
Clashing in the first game at 5 p.m. are Charlie Media and IBP-Aklan while Alpha Media collides with the Judiciary I.
Alpha Media is expected to pin its hopes from the Philippine Information Agency-Aklan Media Forum pair of Joselito Edwin Ramos and Jethro Laserna, Ron Bautista and Ronel Barrida of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo, Alwin dela Cruz of IBC DyRG Budyong, Ramil Tirazona of RMN DyKR, Arbelle Zausa of DyIN Bombo Radyo and Jhinky Jane Balairos of Kalibo Cable Television Network.
Efren Galvan and Cris Gubatina will spearhead the campaign of Judiciary I along with Greg Tanesa and George Wendell Villanueva. Other members of the team are lawyer Giovanni Paul Gomez, Samuel de Pedro, Nicoaron Roldan and Suzette Salvador.
The youth-laden IBP-Aklan team composed of lawyers Flosemer Chris Gonzales, Apollo Roldan, Ryan Cawaling, Ervie Taytayon, Euridice Cudiamat, Maria Fe Taal, Christine Candelario-Dela Cruz, Bryan Calizo, Ricardo Ibarreta, Jr and Reynaldo Peralta, Jr. will slug it out against the Charlie Media team bannered by CBIS Hot FM honorary station manager and Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo.
Marlon Salvador and Arnel Relampago of Kalibo Cable Television Network, Ronnel Irodestan of CBIS Hot FM, Winston Carillo of Western Visayas Explorer, Hagbong dela Cruz of The Aklan Reporter, Lucy Villaruel of IBC DyRG Budyong, and Ambrosio Villorente, Jr. of Madyaas Pen will also carry the scoring load for the Charlie Media team.
In the main game, Bravo Media guns for its first win against IBP-Aklan while Charlie Media battles Judiciary II at 7 p.m.
Bravo Media, led by veteran journalist Odon Bandiola and Randy Anthony Rebaldo of CBIS Hot FM, will entrust their team’s fate in the hands of William Arguelles (Aklan Media Forum), Jujet Reyes (IBC DyRG Budyong), Duddie Balairos (RGMA DyRU Super Radyo), Jomer Soriano (DyIN Bombo Radyo), Gary Vargas (Kalibo Cable Television Network) and Catalino Apsay (DyIN Bombo Radyo).
Judiciary II’s bid is expected to draw strength from Hernan Florencio Cortes, Danilo Yap, Ramon Manuel Felipe Mayor, Judge Lollie Ureta-Villaruel, Alvin Mindanao, Mariz Peralta and Judge Bienvenido Barrios Jr.
The weeklong tournament is being supported by IBP-Aklan, Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), Aklan Police and Defense Press Corps (APDPC), Aklan Media Forum (AMF), Aklan Press Club (APC), Aklan United Media Association (AUMA) and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP).
Billed as Goodwill Bowling Cup, the event hopes to foster friendship, unity and goodwill and at the same time promote physical fitness among the tri-media members, lawyers and court employees in Aklan.

The simple opening ceremony of the Goodwill Bowling Cup is set at 4 p.m. with a four-game schedule at the Q-Zone Bowling Center at Osmena Avenue.

Aklan SP to tackle close to P1-billion budget
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

(Akeanon) 2010 annual budget it Aklan, nakataeana nga pagatalakayun /Bombo Radyo

KALIBO, Aklan – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan will start the budget hearings of the proposed 2010 annual budget of P1.047-billion.
The total appropriations of P557,630,727.00 for the General Fund and P392,250,705.00 for the Economic Enterprise Development Department are scheduled for floor deliberations this November after it was submitted by Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
The budget, amounting to P97,328,127.20, from the 20 percent Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA Development Fund), will also be appropriated for the provincial government’s projects and programs for the year 2010.
The proposed annual budget is 15 percent higher than the 2009 approved P483.954-million for General Fund and 19 percent higher than this year’s budget of P327.249 million for the Economic Enterprise Development, bulk of which for the development of the Caticlan and Cagban jetty ports in Malay, Aklan.

The annual budget also focuses on livelihood, infrastructure development, comprehensive health services, investment and tourism, and agriculture. It is prepared by the executive department pursuant to Section 318 of Republic Act No. 7160 or the 1991 Local Government Code on or before the October 16 deadline.

All appropriation ordinances authorizing the annual or supplemental budgets are also under review by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) in the region for substantial compliance with the provisions of the Local Government Code and its implementing rules and regulations.

Meanwhile, the Sangguniang Panlawigan has enacted the Aklan Tourism Code and the Aklan Environment Code while the Aklan Children’s Code is pending with the legislative council this year.

My first time in Bora
BY JINGGOY I. SALVADOR

The first time will always be the most memorable.
It is your benchmark and will always be your point of comparison to the other coming events that will transpire.
From here on, whenever you reminisce, your story will always start with, "I remember the first time?"
When asked what's the best beach to go to in the Philippines, this island's name is the first that comes to min -- Boracay.
The hype and popularity makes every Pinoy soul utter the island's name whether they have been there or not.
It must be in every beachbum's bucket list to make it there or make it a regular destination. Such is the case with me; I got bitten with the Bora bug!
Memories flood my brain of the very first time this beach-b_tch set foot for the very first time on the island paradise. It was a long winding trip from point B to B (that's Bacolod to Boracay), and a stopover at Kalibo to get a ride with everyone else that is traveling to Caticlan, the port exit to the island. Minus the Bacolod leg, this was the same route I took going back to Bora.
You see, with the recent barrage of air arrivals from the four players of the industry, the Caticlan airport suddenly became obsolete plus the plague of unwanted mishaps that seem to scare every flying passenger does not help.
All (or almost?) in-coming flights are diverted to the Kalibo airport now and that adds an hour and a half travel time for you going to the island.
Who else loves to heading to the island during Habagat but me. There must be more who prefer to go at this time of the year when the throngs of tourists are absent.
There are just handfuls and the shoreline is free from the boom boxes that pollute the air and the gazillions of footsteps on the sand. So if you try looking for Jesus' footsteps on the white powder-like stretch when He lifts you from the ground, I wish you all the luck.
Habagat is the season I most love. Aside from the reasons I have mentioned, it is always a great time to meet the locals and yes, commune with nature. With the peace and quiet, your state of consciousness is heightened and you get to see everything around you with more clarity.
"I remember the first time..." It was the Holy Week that was the first visit for me and at the younger age, I loved the hustle and bustle, the wild and the riotous nature of the revelers that filled the island.
Party day in and out, bask under the tropical sun at day and get doused by the pouring rain at night. I could say it was a "been there, done that" experience for me.
These years, try visiting around that time and you are in for a restless stay -- well, if that's your plan then go for it. Boracay is the center of trade, commerce and events by every consumer product imaginable during the summer months. It's like the island will sink with everyone on it.
Yes, I admit it can be fun and I do seek the maddening crowd once in a while. But if I can get that in the city, I would prefer to calm down by the beach and let the salt of the earth cleanse me -- rain or shine.
And rain is expected, with the winds blowing towards the white beach, the typhoon season (Pepeng and Ondoy hit Luzon devastatingly) also brings in the rain. I will love it any other way.
You see, people wonder and ask if it is really my first trip to Boracay. They all know I did a stint there and a regular beach freak of the island. I say yes, whenever I am in this island paradise, I always see and do something new, something nice to make you smile, something worth cherishing and everything to be thankful for.
It is always, and will always be, like a first time for me. Isn't that how we should live our lives every day?

Aklan public high schools go online with Gilas
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/225959/high-schools-go-online-with-gilas

KALIBO, Aklan – Twelve public high schools in Aklan were the latest beneficiaries of Ayala Foundation-backed Gilas (Gearing-up Internet Literacy and Access for Students) program.
Mario Derequito, director of Ayala Foundation and Gilas project director, said the project aims to connect 6,600 public high schools around the country to the internet.
Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores has expressed support by allocating P1.150-million as counterpart fund for the Gilas consortium. The project is spearheaded by Ayala Foundation in partnership with cities and provinces and the Department of Education (DepEd) to allow public high school students to gain access to computer laboratories with Internet capabilities for research and interactive learning programs.
A tripartite memorandum of agreement (MOA) was signed between the Ayala Foundation, DepEd and Miraflores. It was witnessed by town mayors, principals, school administrators and presidents of parent-teachers association.
“We are happy with this partnership and the support of the local mayors and the community. Since 2005, more than 2,300 schools were wired to the internet, twelve of them in the province of Aklan. We have to give and opportunity our students to compete in the competitive world with the Gilas-internet connectivity program,” Derequito said.
The MOA signing were also attended by town mayors of Libacao (Charito Navarosa), Ibajay (Maria Lourdes Miraflores), Malinao (Dominador Ilio, Jr), Lezo (Victor Fernandez), Tangalan (Gene Fuentes), Buruanga (Quezon Labindao), Asst. Division Schools Superintendent Dr. Concepcion Pelayo and Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Selwyn Ibarreta.
Miraflores also cited the importance of internet in the far-flung barangays of Nabas, Libacao, Madalag, Buruanga, Lezo, Ibajay, Tangalan and Malinao to the public secondary students through the Gilas project of Ayala Foundation.
“The project promotes computer literacy for students and teachers with the massive computerization of Gilas. Next year, we target all the remaining high schools in Aklan to have free internet access,” he said.
The beneficiaries of the project were Lezo Integrated School, Ondoy National High School, Maloco National High School, Batan Academy, Buruanga Vocational School, Naile National High School, Libacao National Forestry Vocational High School, Naisud National High School, Madalag National High School, Rosario National High School, Toledo National High School and Tangalan National High School.

Atienza: Why pick on resort on coral reef?
BY ALCUIN PAPA /Philippine Daily Inquirer

Environment Secretary Joselito Atienza has asked groups in Boracay not to discriminate against a resort that was partly built on top of a coral reef on the island, saying other resorts there were as guilty of trashing the environment.
Asked to comment on reports that West Cove, a resort owned by a businessman said to be close to boxer Manny Pacquiao, had built a structure on top of a coral reef in Boracay, Atienza said West Cove wasn’t the only one that should be investigated.
“Let’s not focus on one resort. Let’s address concerns on all the resorts,” said Atienza, who was also reported to be close to the owner of West Cove, businessman Crisostomo Aquino.
“There is too much anarchy (in Boracay). The environmental situation there is chaotic, perpetrated by the local government units,” said Atienza.
He said the DENR would verify if, indeed, West Cove had built structures on a coral reef in Boracay.Pictures of construction in the resort showed a hut rising on top of a coral reef that had been cemented on its sides.
Aquino, the West Cove owner, had said in an interview with the Inquirer Visayas Bureau that his resort has a pending application for a FlagT, a document that would allow him to occupy and develop forest land for tourism purposes for 25 years.
According to the businessman, his other applications for business and other permits are on hold until he has secured a FlagT, which would have to come from Atienza’s office.
Municipal officials in Boracay said West Cove has been operating without permits since 2007.
Atienza said the DENR wants to “check if (what they say about the construction of West Cove) is correct.”“But what about the others (resorts)?” he said.
He said many resorts near Boracay’s white sand beach were also violating environmental laws.
“Let’s address the problem as a whole and not discriminate,” he said.
The DENR, according to the secretary, is currently conducting a survey in Boracay prior to giving out titles to lots that have already been occupied there.
“There is already a process ongoing,” said Atienza.
He said he ordered a freeze on the payment of taxes on lots, as many lot occupants use tax declarations to lay claim to pieces of property in Boracay.
Last year, the Supreme Court upheld Malacanang’s declaration that land in Boracay is public property and that private landowners cannot get titles to their lots without a law from Congress.
Business groups in the island sought an immediate halt to the construction of West Cove, saying it was “illegal and destructive.”
Atienza has repeatedly said the DENR would crack down on violations of environmental laws in Boracay.

DyRU : 12 years of remarkable public service
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Model employee of the year Roderick Quimpo (third from left) with DyRU station manager Butz J. Maquinto (center), Nina Diangson, Lyneth Mendoza, Let-let Rapio, Duddie Balairos and Annie Lee Bautista / PHOTO BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

Lower photo. Employees of DyRU Super Radyo Kalibo during the 12th year anniversary / PHOTO BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

DyRU Super Radyo has easily kept its number one provincial radio station lofty status, a feat that was directly attributed to Kaibahang Butz J. Maquinto’s leadership and unquestionable integrity.
In his more than two decades of dedicated public service, Kaibahang Butz has undeniably brought the radio station at par with other radio stations in the country.

Truth to that, the longest running and home-grown programs of DyRU - Ilitsahan and Parke de Libertad are the most listened to public affairs programs in Aklan and nearby provinces of Capiz, Iloilo and Antique.

The radio station started broadcasting in 1997 with the Kaibahan tags on their air names, like Kaibahang Butz, Kaibahang Conrad Indelible, Kaibahang Ron Bautista, Kaibahang Lyneth Mendoza, Kaibahang Let-Let Rapio, Kaibahang Harvey Gelito, Kaibahang Annie Lee Bautista, Kaibahang Michael Selorio, Kaibahang Mark Sy and so on.

DyRU also pride's itself as Aklan's first interactive radio station where listeners can send and feed comments through text messaging.

DyRU, owned and operated by Radio Global Media Arts (RGMA), has won the Best FM radio Station in the country (Provincial category) during the prestigious 11th KBP Golden Dove Awards in 2001.
Despite the devastation of Typhoon Frank last year, the station’s monthly advertising billings posted double-digit sales growth.

The ‘winning sales strategy’ is credited to perennial network awardee Kaibahang Jo Bugarin, Kaibahang Nina Diangson and Kaibahang Let-Let’s marketing savvy.
But the benchmark of DyRU’s yearly success is the high collection efficiency efforts of Kaibahang Ronel Barrida backed up by top notch and hardworking engineering team of Kaibahang Tong Balairos.
To show the appreciation of DyRU for their hard work and dedication, Kaibahang Butz and former Aklan Press and Radio Club president Ronquillo Tolentino awarded the employees last Saturday’s anniversary dubbed “Dose-rbisyo Numero Uno sa RU”.
Roderick Liberato-Quimpo has been honored as model employee of the year 2008 who has demonstrated consistent competence and strong work ethics.
Of course, the biggest names in Aklan media led by Aklan Press Club president Dr. Ambrosio Villorente and Aklan United Media Association president Engr. Winston Carillo witnessed the awarding of employees at the station's studio located along Roxas Avenue Extension.
DyIN Bombo Radyo Kalibo assistant manager Jomer Soriano and RMN DyKR Kalibo station manager Jerome Vega also graced the affair last Saturday.

TIDBITS: A study conducted by Northwestern Visayan Colleges Mass Communication Department noted that 103 out 150 respondents preferred the radio programs of DyRU. Perhaps in the 12 years of service of DyRU, the respected employees of DyRU promoted a fun working environment and positive attitude that make this radio station outperformed all other FM and AM radio stations in the province.

Kalibo airport hikes terminal fees for outgoing passengers
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/225316/kalibo-airport-hikes-terminal-fess-outgoing-passengers

KALIBO, Aklan – The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has implemented the new terminal fees for departing passengers of the Kalibo International Airport effective October 15.
Acting Airport Area Manager Efren Nagrama said the increase of charges is pursuant to Section 1 Part V of the Department Order No. 98-1178 (Revised Schedule of Fees and Charges for Alternate International Airport and National Airports) and Department Order 2008-06 (New Classification of Airports in the Philippines) classifying Kalibo airport as an international gateway of airline passengers.
The new passenger service charge for departing passengers, except for transit passengers and children 2 years old and below is increased from P20 to P40 while passengers departing internationally are charged P500.

The fees are intended for projects including airport runway extension, terminal expansion terminals and improvements in passenger benefits. These projects are designed to ensure compliance of Kalibo airport with international safety and security requirements.
The airport, which is the busiest airport in the region, serves domestic flights of Philippine Airlines, PAL Express, Zest Air and Cebu Pacific flying the Manila and Cebu routes.
It also caters to regional flights of Mandarin Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, Philippine Airlines and TransAsia Airways to and from Incheon, Taiwan, Shanghai and Hangzhou in China.

The national government is constructing a brand-new terminal building to handle more than 400,000 passengers yearly. Once operational in December, the terminal will be equipped with customs, immigration and quarantine counters.
Meanwhile, a public hearing and consultation for the revision of Section Part V of the Department Order No. 98-1178, Series of 1998 which would even further increase passenger service charge for domestic flights from the current P40 to P200 and for international flights from P500 to P750.00 had recently been commenced.

Echoes From
BY JOHNNY DAYANG

CMMA: Paying tribute to the icon of democracy and faith

The late president Corazon Aquino may have passed away, but the Christian values she has fostered, the love of God she has endeared and the sense of humility she has espoused will forever remain etched in the hearts and minds of the faithful.
Last Wednesday, her children represented her during the 31st annual Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) at the San Carlos Seminary Auditorium, EDSA Guadalupe in Makati city.
Mrs. Aquino, a devout Roman Catholic, was honored with the Servaim Award, first conferred in 2005 following the death of Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin, employing his concept of “servant leadership” in the Roman Catholic Church.
No less than Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo of Jaro, Iloilo, the outgoing Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines president, paid tribute to Mrs. Aquino in brief remarks before presenting the award to her children.
In many respects, this rarely given prestigious Serviam Award reaffirms that Mrs. Aquino epitomizes not only as icon of democracy, but also of faith worth emulating in a world seemingly overwhelmed by temptations of crass materialism.
And that’s exactly the underlying reason- serving God above all else – why the CMMA was initiated by Cardinal Sin in 1978 with the support of Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua as Chairman and president.
Unlike other awards, those of CCMA place great emphasis on works of mass media practitioners that promote and inspire Christian values- love, hope, righteousness and humility.
In essence, putting God first more than anything, anybody, or any idea in our lives. Values are spiritual in nature which manifests through deeds.
The awards cover print, radio, television, advertising, cinema, music, internet and other different fields of media.
Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams, Papal Nuncio of the Philippines, Manila Archbishop Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales and Ambassador Chua led the awarding ceremonies.
Archbishop Adams spoke on the theme “Promoting a Culture of Respect, Dialogue and Friendship in the Digital Generation” which is in line with the message of Pope Benedict XVI for the World Communication Day last May calling for the use of modern communication and information technologies to promote social transformation and uplift humanity.
NOTE: Newspaper publishers and editors are invited to attend the October 17 to 18 seminar on judicial and legal notices publication at the Development Academy of the Philippines in Tagaytay City.
Supreme Court Senior Justice Leonardo A. Quisumbing, Deputy Court Administrator Jose Maidas P. Marquez, Prof. Luis V. Teodoro, and Press Secretary Cerge M. Remonde are the among the speakers and guests.