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Rape-slay suspect nabbed in Masbate FEBRUARY 14 - 20, 2012
VOL. IX NO. 28
CATBALOGAN CITY
P10.00
Kins of the 8-year-old victim wants justice; Angry people storms police office B� ROMMEL L. RUTOR, Senior Reporter CATBALOGAN CITY – After 4 days of hiding, the primary suspect in last Friday’s rape-slay case of an 8-year old pupil of Catbalogan II Central Elementary School is now behind bars after he was handed over to a team of Catbalogan City police led by PSupt. Avelino Bugtong Doncillo, Jr. who personally went to the town of Monreal in Masbate to pick up the suspect. The suspect whom the ing implicated by authorities police identified as one Artus in the rape-slay case. Doncillo informed that Nazareno Alcantara, 32 years old, married and a 4-day old with the help of some sourcwatchman of Catbalogan II es, the police was able to get in touch with the suspect’s Central Elementary School, was turned over to the Mon- father on Monday whom real Police by his own family he said wasn’t aware of the upon learning that he is beSEE RAPE P3
ANGRY COMMUNITY! Angry onlookers and rela�ves of the vic�m converged in-front of the Catbalogan PNP Sta�on to take a glimpse of the suspect (picture in page 2 which has been secured by the police inside the interroga�on room and later transferred to Samar Police Provincial Office for safekeeping to avoid the mob. (Rommel Rutor
Officials support kids in island town of Daram B� NINFA B. QUIRANTE CATBALOGAN CITY – Barangay leaders, Day Care workers, health volunteers and officials pledged commitment to focus attention to earliest months and years of Daram children. During the Early Childhood Care and Development Summit held in Daram (Samar) last Monday, these 200 participants recited their commitment and signed. Organizers headed by Plan Philippines stated the seemingly unfavorable situation of children where many are malnourished,
some are not immunized, and a rising number of neonatal deaths. While most children are in day Care Centers, proponents of ECCD would like them to enter Day Care as it is free and will provide psycho social simulation that will develop the children. Part of their commitment states, “We believe that the early years (0-6) are the foundation of a child’s physical health, mental alertness, emotional security, social competence and intellectual capacity.” SEE OFFICIALS P3
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Samar employees told: “Observe healthy lifestyle” CATBALOGAN CITY — The Provincial Health Office of Samar urged the government employees to observe healthy lifestyle to avoid cardio vascular illness. Last Tuesday, capitol employees were treated to some assessment like Body Mass Index (BMI) determination, measurements of waist and hips circumference and blood pressure taking. Among those who were assessed, only a handful of employees were found to have normal weight and the rest were either overweight or obese. “This outcome is quite alarming,” said Provincial Health Officer Dr. Dulce Cernal. In a lecture given by Belma Calagos of Cardio Vascular Diseases (CVD) Control program Coordinator of the PHO, she said that unhealthy diet and physical inactivity have contributed to the government workers being overweight or obese. Obesity or overweight is linked to cardio vascular diseases. Obesity is a condition in which a person weighs 20% more than his ideal weight. To address this unhealthy situation, PHO has SEE SAMAR P3
DPWH earmarked P208.6-M for Samar’s ‘critical bridges’ CATBALOGAN CITY – To ensure public safety during calamities, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) earmarked some P208.6 million for six national bridges in the province found critical. In a press release by Marianette Gomez, she said that a group of Technical Inspectors re-assessed some forty bridges of the district and recommended repair and rehabilitation. Bridges recommended for total replacement are Cagnipa Bridge, Bolongto Bridge and Caglanipao Bridge all within the Calbayog-Allen Road Section. The works include the replacement of the deck slab, steel girders, grouted riprap in approaches and abutment while bridges for repair are Kinawan Bridge, Labuyao
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Bridge and Jibatang Bridge with steel reinforcement, concrete railing, structural concrete, grouted riprap and the reconstruction of Steel Girders. The total appropriation under the DPWH Infrastructure Program based on General Appropriation Act is P208.600 million covering the aggregate length of 398.15 inches. The District Office has already bid out these projects in the mid week of the January and contractors are mobilizing their equipments for the implementation of the projects. In a meeting with contractors, District Engineer Virgilio Eduarte disclosed to contractors the Secretary’s SEE DPWH P6
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Much of the Development of Samar is found in leaders & people who care.
Samar Weekly Express
REGIONAL TOP STORIES DepEd Samar to implement POLICE ‘Lingap Kalikasan’ drive Files 2
CATBALOGAN CITY — The Department of Education Samar Division will soon implement the “ALS Lingap Kalikasan Program starting this year up to 2016 in support of President Aquino’s Executive Order (EO) 26 otherwise known as the National Greening Program (NGP). Pursuant to DepEd Memorandum no. 58 S. 2011 entitled “Creation of a Task Force on NGP” the Deped has mandated the bureau of ALS to support the national tree planting program nationwide. Faustino Tobes, Samar Division’s ALS coordinator
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FEBRUARY 14 - 20, 2012
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disclosed that the launching of the first ALS Lingap Kalikasan Program will be on March 30, 2012 at 5:00 in the morning. This is to be conducted simultaneously in all regions, divisions and communities to be attended by all ALS learners both in Non Formal Education (NFE) and Informal Education (INFED). “The ALS District Coordinators and mobile teachers in the province are already coordinating with concerned barangay officials and agencies like the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (DENR) in order to ensure the success of the said program.” Tobes said. Tobes added that to really ensure the success of the tree planting activity, the implementers are mandated that a periodic monitoring shall be made to know the status of the trees planted and be reported to the Division. Meanwhile in Jiabong town, District supervisor, Mrs. Remedios A. Javinar requested all the Edukasyong Pangtahanan at pangkabuhayan (EPP) teachers to have garden centers or nurseries in order
to ensure that seedlings will be available for the tree planting activity. “In case seedlings are not available at the office of DENR and DA, we can secure somehow secure seedlings to plant by March 30 with the help of your pupils in your respective schools by having nurseries,” she said. The Deped Samar Division is hopeful for the success of the program with the support of the ALS implementers in particular being front-liners of the department. (Ninfa Quirante and Avha H. Ebalde)
‘Watchman’ formally charged with rape with homicide CATBALOGAN CITY – The Catbalogan Philippine National Police through its women’s desk formally charged the ‘watchman’ accused of killing and molesting the 8-year-old pupil in Catbalogan II Central Elementary School Friday evening. The suspect identified as Artus Alcantara Jr. alias Arthur or Botchok, 32, married, a native of Malabon, Metro Manila and temporarily reside in Purok 1, Brgy 7 this city, was charged with rape with homicide in relation to Republic Act No. 7610 otherwise known as Special Protection against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, before the city prosecutor’s office through preliminary investigation proceedings docketed under NPS No. VIII-08-INV-12B00818 dated February 15 2012. Last Monday, the suspect was arrested in Monreal Masbate where he was surrendered by his family in the police in Masbate. Catbalogan PNP Tracker’s Team composed of Police Superintendent Avelino B. Doncillo Jr., the Catbalogan City chief of police, and his men SPO3 Josezaldy Dandoy Rueda, and PO2 Roy Machate Pagunsan fetched the suspect in the hands of Monreal Municipal Police Station, Monreal, Masbate on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2012. In a follow up interviews with the suspect, he admitted the crime of killing the minor victim but refused to admit the rape charged. He was secured by the police in a detention cell in the Samar Provincial Police Office following a threat to his life by angry residents. The suspect was newly-hired as “watchman” or guard of the school, and on his 4th day on duty, he allegedly committed the horrible crime against the victim he supposed to serve and protect. (Ricky Bautista)
Valentines Day bombing remembered PALO, Leyte – PNP PRO8 joins the whole nation in remembering the Valentine’s Day bombings which happened seven (7) years ago. The country will be observing the 7th Anniversary of the Valentine’s Day bombings, also referred to as the Philippines mini – 9/11 because of the sequential nature of the attacks. February 14, 2005, three (3) separate but successive explosions occurred in the cities of Makati, Davao and General Santos, resulting to the death of at least eight (8) persons and injured more than a hundred others. The PNP in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, is not taking chances notwithstanding the absence of a report on imminent threat of terroristic acts on a specific target. Hence, the PNP will undertake proactive measures against terrorism in order to ensure security and safety of the public during the celebration of Valentine’s Day. (rjb)
‘Rusi’ manager arrested PALO, Leyte – The Philippine National Police in its incessant anti-criminality campaign, arrested an individual for violation of RA 8294 otherwise known as “Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunitions” in Borongan City. On February 7, 2012, at about 6:30PM, operatives of Eastern Samar Criminal Investigation Division Team led by PSInsp. Ignacio Layugan arrested the suspect identified as Dave Jun Jamadron Belingan, 29 years old, single, Branch Manager of RUSI Motors, Borongan City, Eastern Samar, a native of Barangay Tinago, Bayauan City, Negros Oriental and presently residing at Barangay 6 of Borongan City. Belingan was arrested for his illegal gun running activity. A caliber .45 Pistol Colt, caliber .45 Pistol Noringco, seven (7) live ammos and two (2) marked genuine five hundred peso bills were confiscated from his custody. Suspect was brought to Eastern Samar CIDT Office for documentation and a case for violation of RA 8294 was filed against him. (Lilith S. Teña)
Suspected drug pusher arrested The suspect, Artus Alcantara, was nearly mob by the angry residents who stormed the police sta�on last Monday. He was later transferred in a safe deten�on at the SPPO, Brgy. Maulong, this city.
<<-------------------<<-------------------HEALTH SUMMIT IN EASTERN SAMAR. Department of Health Regional Director Edgardo Gonzaga discusses the “Local na Pamahalaan Tungo sa Kalusugan Pangkalahatan” during the Provincial Health Summit for Eastern Samar held at Leyte Park Hotel in Tacloban City, Leyte last February 15, 2012. (Photo by Vino R. Cuayzon)
CATBALOGAN CITY – The Catbalogan City police arrested a suspected drug pusher who was caught in the act of selling methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” in the city last Sunday, February 12, 2012. The suspect was identified by the police as certain Fernando Maga alias Etas, 41 years old, married, jobless and resident of Purok 1, Brgy. 10, Catbalogan City. Accordingly, at high noon of February 12, the police received a tip from a police asset that a known drug pusher wearing green maong pants and sleeveless shirt is engaging in illegal drug trade particularly selling “shabu” at the vicinity of Brgy 11 and 12, both of this City. Thereafter, the police briefed every personnel on the operation and prepared necessary documents needed. At around 2:00 o’clock in that afternoon, the team proceeded to the area and strategically positioned themselves thereat and consequently fifteen minutes later, the suspect alias “Etas” was arrested while in the act of selling one (1) heat sealed plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance locally known
as “Shabu” to a police who posed as buyer that leads to the arrest of the suspect at the corner of Mabini Ave., and San Roque St., Brgy 11 this city. Recovered from the suspect possession were two (2) pieces Five Hundred peso bills with serial numbers WQ193674 and YG298936 buy-bust marked money from his possession and control. A case of violation of Sec. 5, Art. II of RA 9165 (The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) was filed against the culprit thru Inquest proceedings docketed under NPS No. VIII-08-INQ12B-00308 before the City Prosecutor’s Office this city dated February 11, 2012 with no bail recommended. (Lilith S. Teña)
Samar Weekly Express
PROVINCES International medical team conducts free surgeries in Northern Samar A FEBRUARY 14 - 20, 2012
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round 30 medical workers composed of doctors and nurses from the United States of America (USA) and from Manila have returned to Northern
Samar to once again perform major surgeries on needy patients free of charge. Renowned reconstructive surgeon and medical philanthropist Dr. Hildegardes Dineros, founder of the Nuestra Senora de Salvacion Charity Hospital Foundation Incorporated led the way for the team that include medical experts from the International Surgical Mission (ISM) Group of Colorado, USA led by Dr. Paul Bradway; the Liliane Foundation, and a group of volunteer doctors and staff from the St. Luke’s Medical Center (SLMC) in Manila. The team arrived in Catarman on Wednesday and started their 9-day free medical services right the following Thursday at the facilities of Laoang and Mondragon towns. Based on their bulletin, the medical mission team this year will perform major surgical operations on various conditions like her-
nia (herniorrhapy), thyroid (thyrodictomy), hydrocolectomy, excision, masectomy, appendectomy, hysiterectomy and other physiological problems. Surgeries on these will be done at the G.B. Tan Memorial Hospital in Laoang beginning February 8 until February 16. Minor surgeries on cases like lip-cleft palate, cyst and other small operations will be conducted at the Bugko Mabuhay Center in Mondragon town. All local government units in the province were advised to send their patients to these sites to avail of the rare opportunity of getting free surgeries, and even free medicines from the medical mission team. For many years, Dr. Dineros has been bringing the “SMILE FOREVER PROGRAM” to Northern Samar were hundreds of patients mostly children with cleft-palates were operated on successfully. This year as part of her
mission, Dineros will give free artificial prosthetics to arm or hand amputees. Student and faculty from the University of the Philippines (UEP) College of Nursing provided local assistance to the medical mission team. Joe Lim, pesident of the Rotary Club of Catarman, announced that registration is still open for patients who wish to avail of free services from the medical mission. “For listing of patients from the first district they can go to Sugbaan sa Northwood (in Catarman)
43IB seals off NPA camp PALAPAG, Northern Samar – Few days after the NPAs attack on the town of Lapinig, Northern Samar last month, pursuing government troops raided an NPA camp located in the outskirt of Barangay Siljagon, Mapanas, Northern Samar high noon of February 3, 2012. Locating the enemy lair around 1.5 kms southwest of Barangay Siljagon, the troops raided the camp’s advance guards of 7 enemies, then assaulted their main enemy camp occupied by 30 rebels which is 100 meters east of the advance guards. Surprised, the rebels scampered to different directions leaving behind their camp composed of 25 nipa huts that can accommodate 50 persons and assorted belongings. Recovered were improvised landmine, magazine for 9mm pistol with 10 rounds of live ammunitions, 1 cellular phone, 1backpack with clothes, 15 laminated sacks of different sizes, 1 stapler, 1 sack rice, 8 cooking pots containing freshly cooked rice, 4 pairs of boots, 1 pair rubber shoes, 4 pairs slippers, 2 flashlights, assorted cigarettes, subversive documents, maps of their camps in Samar, future plans and list of names of their supporters and sympathizers. (rjb)
Catbalogan PNP seized ‘hot’ lumbers in Pier 1 CATBALOGAN CITY – Cooperation from the populace has always been proven effective by the police in its anti-crime drives against lawless elements. Thus said Police Superintendent Avelino B. Doncillo Jr., the chief of police of this city when interviewed by the Samar Weekly Express. Last week, another information has been received by the police regarding a suspicious truck loaded with assorted ‘hot’ lumbers at Pier 1, Brgy. 6 of this city. Pier 1 was a known “dropping point” of all illegal lumbers transported to this city from other remote towns in Samar, the police said. On that particular tip, the police officers of the day namely Police Insp. Serrano A. Robediso and PO1 Leo Pagunsan went to the said area to verify the report and upon arrival they caught in the act six (6) male person unloading assorted sizes of lumber from a truck with plate number GKK 349 and upon their inquiry of necessary papers, “five of its helpers jumped
and patients from the second district can go directly to the G.B. Tan Memorial Hospital in Laoang,” Lim said. Since 2007, the Rotary Club of Catarman has been backing up this International Surgical Mission to Northern Samar, along with the Nuestra Senora de Salvacion Foundation, the provincial government of Northern Samar, the Vice Mayors League (NS), the Free and Accepted Mason Lodge 211 and the Employers’ Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) (Rachel Arnaiz)
‘HOT LOGS’. A truckload of illegal lumbers worth P63, 500 thousand were seized by the police at Pier 1, Brgy. 6 of this city recently. Five of the suspects escaped but the driver was captured by the police and brought to Catbalogan PNP sta�on. The truck were impounded inside the sta�on while necessary papers hasn’t been completed. A viola�on of PD 705 has been filed in court against the suspects and the truck owner.
off the truck and escaped,” PO1 Pagunsan said. The driver, who was surprised by the arrival of the police, didn’t resist the arrest. The driver identified as certain Antonio Abadiano Y Baccol, 42 years old, married and a resident of Brgy. Tabucan, Paranas, Samar was brought to the police station together with the confiscated 254 pieces assorted sizes of illegally saw lumber and vehicle for proper disposition. Personnel from the City Environment and Natural Resources who scaled the seized lumbers reported that a volume of 1,814.59 board feet with estimated market value of Sixty Three Thousand Five hundred Ten Pesos and Sixty Five Cents (Php 63,510.65) at Thirty Five Pesos (Php 35.00) per board feet has been netted by the police. Supt. Doncillo Jr said an appropriate charges (PD 705) has been filed in court against the driver and the owner of the truck. (Ricky Bautista with reports from Lilith S. Teña)
RAPE from page 1...
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incident but admitted that the suspect is in Masbate, “and after a series of talks and negotiations, the family finally agreed to voluntarily hand-over the suspect for custody to our counterparts in their town, and immediately that day I personally formed a team to transport the suspect back to this city for him to face the allegations,” he said. Information obtained by The SWE showed that the suspect despite being in the custody of authorities now hasn’t “officially” admitted the crime yet, but Doncillo told that he was able to talk to one of Alcantara’s cousin in Monreal that the suspect told them that he wasn’t aware of what he had done, “nagdilim daw ang paningin niya dahil sa gutom kaya niya nagawa ang krimen,” said Doncillo. Likewise, during The SWE’s first interaction with the suspect right after he finished his medical examination on Tuesday evening, Alcantara refused to admit the crime and did not answer questions from the media but promised to give his side of the story only after he is able to confer with his lawyer. But during The SWE’s second attempt to interview the suspect when he was already placed inside the police lock-up cell, Alcantara called in for the media and admitted that he perpetrated the killing of the 8-year old pupil but denied he raped the victim. It was only on Wednesday morning that the suspect admitted to the police that he allegedly attempted to rape the victim but allegedly wasn’t successful in his intentions. It can be recalled that the 8-year old victim has been reported missing since Friday afternoon by her parents to the media and to the police, and on Sunday afternoon a half-naked dead body of a girl was found at the back of a classroom situated at the back of stage of Catbalogan II Central Elementary School (C2CES) and turned out to be the missing child. On the other hand, Parents and Teacher’s Association president Marcial Solayao told The SWE that together with the victim, Alcantara also went missing Friday evening by not turning over the keys and flashlight to the incoming watchman of the school. “Kay dapat alas saiz pala, ma turn over na hiya han mga yabe han marelyebo ha iya pero waray na hiya mahikit-I, ginkadto pa namon ha iya balay waray gihap didto, bisan ngani an iya half-sister dire gud sayod kun nakain hiya,” Solayao stressed. It was only on Monday that the suspect was traced to be in Monreal, Masbate – the place of his father – when a communication thru a cellphone number provided by the suspect’s half-sister was made by the media. The information was immediately relayed to the police who in turn acted immediately by coordinating with the suspect’s family and their counterparts in the said town.
SAMAR from page 1...
scheduled ‘hataw day’ on Fridays where employees do an exercise for an hour. “Though it is an exercise, it is not enough,” said Cynthia Palileo health promotion officer at the PHO. Doctors agree that cardio workouts get your heart pumping and can be done 3 to 5 times a week, for 20 to 60 minute sessions. “Brisk walking, swimming, dancing, and doing regular housechores to keep you moving can do the job,” says Palileo. Calagos through her healthy lifestyle inputs recommends no smoking, no alcohol, no illegal drugs, eating healthy diet with less fat are some of the recommendations to live a healthy life aside from a regular exercise. (Ninfa Quirante)
DPWH from page 1...
directive to complete the project on or before September 30, 2012. Contractors are reminded to note down this instruction in their work activities to make sure the target date is achieved. Identified also is the determination which of the six bridges will construct a detour and a craneway to facilitate equipment’s passage by contractors. A travel advisory is issued to guide motorists and the general public. (with reports from DPWH)
OFFICIALs from page 1...
“We recognize that early childhood care and development should be the paramount concern of parents, the community, the government and the state.” The commitment further stated that “we bind ourselves and pledge our support and commitment to the child’s earliest years.” They then pledged to formulate plans that are child centered, pass resolutions and hold activities and projects at the soonest possible time. “If children are left alone, and not given a good start in life, this can lead to undesirable behavior, dropping out from school, poor learning, violent tendencies and juvenile delinquency,” said the guest speaker and ECCD specialist. Mayor Lucia Astorga, on the other hand, appealed to them: “Let us do it, now!” (Ninfa Quirante)
Samar Weekly
EXPRESS THE EXPONENT OF SAMAR PROGRESS
DALMACIO C. GRAFIL Publisher
OPINION Samar Weekly Express
FEBRUARY 14 - 20, 2012
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RICKY J. BAUTISTA Editor-in-Chief
ROMMEL RUTOR Senior Reporter ALMA GRAFIL Bus. Manager CATHERINE GERADILA Office-in-Charge Columnists, Writers and Account Executives: Chito Dela Torre Atty. Batas Maricio Fr. Roy Cimagala Ismael Amigo Juan Mercado Roger Soria Myra Tambor Jenna Tizon Igdalino Gina Dean Ragudo Lilith Sabuco - Teña Malou Bermejo.
OFFICE: The Samar Weekly Express is published weekly in multi-lingual format with editorial and business office located at Rizal Avenue, Catbalogan, Samar (Infront of Fire Department near City Hall) CONTACT: Telephone (055) 251-2341 Fax: (053) 321-5591 Main Office: (053) 321-4833 Mobile: 09207675444 E-MAIL: trexpelunker@yahoo.com, mysolotrek@gmail.com
EDITORIAL
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The only SEC registered media organization operating in the three provinces of Samar A sister publication of the Leyte - Samar Daily Express (Tacloban City) Eastern Bulletin (Borongan City) and West Leyte Weekly Express (Ormoc City)
For how long would this trial still go? THE nation’s focus has been riveted at watching the historic event – the first in Philippine jurisprudence that of the impeachment trial of Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona. For the past 19 trial days (as of Thursday) we had the opportunity to increase our knowledge on the intricacies of law. Both camps – tried to impose their own interpretation of laws – proving the guilt of the accused to elicit conviction from the prosecution teams and the sometime entertaining banter coming from the defense cleverly proving otherwise. It appears to be an endless exercise with the impeachment court’s unending summons of personalities that are being dragged in the course of the trial. A new witness, congressman Jorge Banal of Quezon City has been summoned to shed light on the issue of large deposits of the accused as one of the damning basis of alleged ill-gotten wealth. On knee-jerk reactions from patient observers they expressed almost with a scorn why it takes this long to prove moral ascendancy of Chief Justice Corona to honorably continue to be the head of the higher court of the land. We were made to understand that even
just one of the eight articles of impeachment is enough to prove guilt and for that matter innocence if unproven. Technicalities in law obviously an obstruction tactics on constant employment by the defense appears to be the culprit why these impeachment hearings drag on, on and on. It has fueled impatience to the national psyche. It is also unfortunate that the longer the hearings go the better feeling for some members of the honorable impeachment court to grandstand, to find joy and satisfaction at fanning their egos delivering lectures addressed especially to the prosecutors on the varied and at times mind – boggling intricacies of the law. While it is frustrating to wait for the outcome of the trial we do not also want that short cuts be employed. In our democratic governance, the accused has the right and privilege to prove his innocence. It is however the moral obligation of the Senate, acting as an impeachment court to abbreviate its hearings without sacrificing the rights of the accused, so the country can move on. Again, we humbly inquire, for how many hearings more for us to see credible closure of this impeachment trial?
Samar Weekly Express
FEBRUARY 14 - 20, 2012
OPINION
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VIEWS ON NEWS
RICKY J. BAUTISTA
trexpelunker@yahoo.com
“... he was the supposed watchman or school guard that supposed to serve her and protect her at all cost. What a ‘devilish’ act to do otherwise against the helpless girl.”
5
Justice for Marian I commend the Catbalogan Police Trackers Team led by Police Superintendent Avelino Doncillo Jr and his men for the immediate arrest of the watchman Artus Alcantara who is being implicated in the rape and slaying of an 8-year-old school girl of Catbalogan II Central Elementary School in Catbalogan City last Friday. The suspect enjoy only four days in hiding in Masbate, where he was arrested by the PNP Trackers Team, and brought him back here to face his charges. For the police, this case may be considered solved because the suspect of the crime has been arrested, jailed and charged. Kudos to the Catbalogan PNP! But for this corner, and the relatives of the victim, we’re still looking for Justice. We are praying for the judiciary for a speedy trial for the conviction of the alleged “rapist and killer” of the innocent Angel who gave him her full trust as he was the supposed watchman or school guard that supposed to serve her and protect her at all cost. What a “devilish” act to do otherwise against the helpless girl. The Authorities should investigate further of his behavioral condition for he might be using drugs. Who is to be blame on this kind of crime? Is it the one who hired the guy? Was his employer asked his personal records such as NBI clearance, police clearance, etc. before hiring him? The suspect was only a watchman for four days and he committed the crime, so sad. We need a full clarification for this issue from school and other concerned individuals who wants to share some information to this corner. Let’s all be watchful and vigilance to the status of this case in court. This now test the credibility of the judiciary in terms of timely trial and case build up. I am also watching.
Beware of another text scams on the loose Got a text message congratulating you for winning a luxury vehicle in a contest that you never signed up for nor even heard of? Well, don’t entertain this kind of joke because this could be a 100% scam. There are people out there sending this kind of scams to as many numbers as they could and once you replied, boom! They will now start tracing you, address, your financial stability and how they can trick you with another scam. At this point, these people know that chosen number is active. Last Sunday, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC)
has warned people again that scammers are very much active anew abusing the short messaging system with same modus operandi. There are people, devilish people out there waiting someone innocent of their modus or deals that seemed to be too good to be true. For me, myself alone received those text messages telling me that I won a lot to draw or won prizes that reached millions of pesos. But I never entertained that kind of texts for I am sure I didn’t join any of those raffles. The latest text scam that was blasted on mobile phones is offering a Vios car plus P300,000 cash prize in exchange for a payment of P30,000 worth of processing fee and a P300 cellular phone load. One scammer made the mistake of talking to a radio reporter but shut off his phone right away when he found out that their conversation was aired live over the radio station. I am suggesting that people who get similar text messages to do research. Check out the legality of organizations and find out whether they are authorized by the Department of Trade of Industry (DTI) to conduct such contests. If you find so dubious and suspicious, you may contact this corner or the Samar Police Provincial Office at Tel. No. 055-251-2722, or mobile hotline 09089603294. One may also check or report the matter to the Department of Trade and Industry if the promo is registered or not and to the NTC for the tracing of the phone numbers. The DTI recommends to consumers to find out whether a text message is true or scam. The following can help in finding out, according to the trade department: 1. Check out the number of senders. Legitimate promos use three or four digit mobile phone numbers. An example of legitimate promos is the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s Premyo sa Resibo (9777 and 9778); and people should doubt once the sender/promoter’s mobile phone shows seven or more digits; 2. Verify the message. Call DTI Direct at (02) 751-3330, or; 3. Report the message and mobile numbers. Call the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for appropriate actions. The NTC contact number is (02) 9267722.
Tears behind media murders
AN LAA-GAN
(Part one of two series)
Last month I received a mistakenly sent email informing the real
had observed during and after Leo’s wake – the tears on his children’s
recipient of an advocacy seminar on Media Murders: The quest for
eyes, his weeping wife and the elusive justice for his death - probably
Justice which is to be facilitated by the Philippine Center for Investiga-
lingered in my subconscious, and is dragging me down to a still every
tive Journalism (PCIJ) in Cebu City, and considering it wasn’t for me,
time I hear stories of Journalists being murdered.
I didn’t mind it and instead forwarded it to the supposed recipient and get back to myself perusing on the vacant schedules of my fellow
It hurt me further when fellow journalists started to ask me how
journalists in the Samar Island Press Club (SIPC) so we could meet for
can the Samar Island Press Club help Leo’s family survive the odds
the News Cooperative that I proposed for our club to pursue.
of seeking justice for his death and most importantly the needs of the children now that their father is gone? Aside from the measly amount
ROMMEL L. RUTOR
zip_rommel@yahoo.com
“... but Leo’s death definitely was an eye opener among local journalists in Samar Island how important it is for us to bind and pursue reforms in the media industry, or perhaps at the least to assist each one of us in times of need. ”
As I was skimming over on the possible dates, I realized I was
which we solicited among media colleagues, what else will follow?
already in an abstraction with flashes of images and thoughts starting
Our press club is new born and is operating on membership contribu-
to appear inside my mind – these are images of danger and thoughts
tion thus it is not capable of extending any form of financial help, but
of fear brought by the tragic death of a fellow journalist and a friend
Leo’s death definitely was an eye opener among local journalists in
Leo Luna Mila of Radyo Natin (San Roque, Northern Samar) who was
Samar Island how important it is for us to bind and pursue reforms
gunned down by still unidentified assassins on December 2, 2008 just
in the media industry, or perhaps at the least to assist each one of us
outside his radio station as he was about to go home after his daily
in times of need.
afternoon radio program. I don’t know what else to say, but from somewhere in my speech I jolted when a droplet of tear fell on to my planner, but immedi-
faculty uttered that after this we should not just wept for Leo’s death
ately pull myself back to what I was doing amid the thoughts of Leo that
per se but wept further to what will happen to his family because just
was persisting and reverberating randomly inside my head: few people
like everyone else we have families who will suffer the most if the case
know that one week before Leo was killed, we met and exchanged in-
of Leo happens to us, God forbid since myself was also under threat
formation and thoughts on how to handle the “death threats” we were
at that time.
both receiving, in fact Leo learned that I was following a security protocol at that time, but unlike him, I did not received the threats myself
By seeing the situation of his family, I know that even those who
but was directly monitored by the police and the military intelligence
doesn’t know Leo Luna Mila personally will be motivated not to stop
community who eventually came to my rescue unasked.
talking of the incident especially on the family’s search for justice and vigorously participate in our campaign to stop media murders and end
The moments of that meeting wasn’t the reason of the spontaneous droplet of tear that fell out to my planner, but the succeeding events I
impunity (Last part of 2 series on next issue).
Samar Weekly Express
OPINION
6
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HINTS & TRACES
BY FR. ROY CIMAGALA
roycimagala@gmail.com
“... our sexual identity did not originate with us, but with God, our creator, with the procreative mediation of our parents.”
KAKAMPI MO ANG BATAS
Our sexual identity WE need to be more aware of this concern. This has been taken for granted for so long that now we have quite a mess of an issue. Many people now feel quite free as to what sexual orientation they want, as if their sexual identity is a matter of their orientation of preference, totally at their mercy or absolutely of their own choosing. As if no objective law governs it. While we always have to be tolerant to all sorts of ideas, theories, mentalities, cultures and lifestyles, we also need to be reminded that not everything has the same weight and value, and that not everything is correct and proper. Otherwise, we would have pure chaos. Lately, we hear a US federal court has overturned the California same-sex marriage ban, considering such ban as unconstitutional. This is one consequence, affecting a country’s legal system, of the confusion and chaos that would ensue if we are not clear about things. In the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, we read the following relevant point: “God has created human beings as male and female, equal in personal dignity, and has called them to a vocation of love and of communion. Everyone should accept his or her identity as male or female, recognizing its importance for the whole of the person, its specificity and complementarity.” (487) When we are born, we are either male or female. That’s why the first thing we look at even while the baby is still in the womb, as in the ultrasound probe, is the organ. The hermaphrodite is an anomaly that needs to be corrected one way or another. We have to accept this biological distinction and start to build up on it, because our sexual identity is not only biological, but is also connected to our whole human nature as a person, both individual and social, and the whole gamut of considerations that we are subject to. In other words, we have a responsibility of affirming, developing and defending our sexual identity. We need to cultivate our sexual identity especially, giving utmost care and attention in areas that are subject to changing understanding. We carry that out with God’s grace and with all the effort we can give. And it’s an ongoing affair.
-o0oA HERO OF AN AGRICULTURIST: There were many heroes who distinguished themselves in the aftermath of the Sendong killer typhoon in Cagayan De Oro City, but Felipe Gabriel, a 55-year-old Tarlacqueno agriculturist who was in the city propagating a special kind of an organic fertilizer when Sendong struck, stood out by having singlehandedly exterminated the bad odor arising from the cadavers thrown in the city’s dumpsite.
“As if by some miraculous design, the pungent odor coming from the cadavers immediately stopped or, to a great degree, was minimized...”
We just cannot sit pretty and think we will be male or female by mere biological inertia. We need to act on it, especially these days when confusing ideologies and fashions tend to blur the distinction and to hold our sexual identity captive to very subjective criteria, instead of linking it to God’s law and our duty toward others. That confusing phenomenon is pretty much a by-product of our crisis of faith, of where to find our ultimate guide, since there are now a growing number of people who think things just depend completely on us and on our consensus. No such thing as God. And much less would they give a hoot to Church teaching. Thus, we should realize that a kind of campaign, a kind of catechesis is needed. In fact, the whole concern of evangelization should include this issue if it has to be an integral evangelization. We need to remember that just like everything else in our life, like our body, our talents, our freedom, etc., our sexual identity did not originate with us, but with God, our creator, with the procreative mediation of our parents. We always need to refer our sexual identity to God and his laws. Such effort to affirm, develop and defend our sexual identity is what comprises the virtue of chastity. It’s the virtue that integrates our sexuality within the person, making it truly human, and not just a toy to play with, or a human aspect merely ruled by hormones. Admittedly, it’s a complex virtue to develop. At the moment, it seems tangled in a mess of negative impressions composed of myths and other historical misunderstandings that need to be sorted out and explained. This will take time and we can expect a lot of controversies. But with patience, I think we can succeed in clarifying things. Chastity is such a beautiful virtue that would enable us to love God and others properly—all the way to the use of our sexuality. It takes us away from the clutches of a self-centered vision of life, blind to the spiritual and supernatural dimension of our life. We have to make sure that the new generations will understand the true meaning of our sexuality, and work hard to cultivate their proper sexual identity.
An agriculturist as ‘Sendong Hero’ LIFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “… And they will go out and look on the dead bodies of those who rebelled against me; the worms that eat them will not die, the fire that burns them will not be quenched, and they will be loathsome to all mankind…” (Isaiah 66:24, the Holy Bible).
ATTY. MELANIO ‘BATAS’ MAURICIO NOTARY PUBLIC
FEBRUARY 14 - 20, 2012
Using a technology that he and his associates developed, Gabriel (or Ipe to us, his schoolmates from the defunct Dr. Nicanor Reyes Memorial Colleges in Paniqui, Tarlac) volunteered, all by his lonesome and for free, to spray the cadavers, which were already very smelly as they were in advanced stage of decomposition, with his liquid organic fertilizer.
decomposed very fast and recycled to build soil humus which is vital to maintaining soil quality and healthy soil biological activities,” the agriculturists said. This type of fertilizer, Gabriel said, is 100 percent organic, so that it is safe to humans, livestock, plants and the environment as a whole, making our surroundings biologically-balanced, he added. This is now being considered as a “divine phenomenon” after it was proven with quantum fertility effect, Gabriel said. -o0oTALE TOO LARGE TO SWALLOW: Will the prosecution in the Senate trial of Chief Justice Renato Corona really expect Filipinos to believe that they did not know that Quezon City Rep. Jorge Banal had a copy of a bank document detailing Corona’s deposits even before congressman-prosecutor Rep. Rey Umali supposedly received his copy from a “small lady” at the Senate? This is a tale too large to swallow even for people without sentido kumon, honorable lawmakers! -o0o-
As if by some miraculous design, the pungent odor coming from the cadavers immediately stopped or, to a great degree, was minimized. When Vice President Jejomar Binay came to know that Gabriel’s product could also disinfect the environment, he ordered around P1.1 million worth of it, commissioning Gabriel to do the spraying of all the evacuation camps in Cagayan De Oro City to fight off the spread of contagious diseases to thousands of evacuees.
KABISIG EXPO AT SM MEGAMALL: The Kabisig Expo Foundation headed by Davao City businessman Danny Guillen is holding yet another trade and job exposition at the SM Megamall on February 22-25, 2012. President Aquino is the invited guest during the opening of the expo on February 22, Guillen told me through a text message. He also invited me to speak on February 22, at 4 p.m. See you there, God willing!
-o0o-
-o0o-
DISINFECTANT FROM ORGANIC FERTILIZER: But that is not the only advantage that one can get from Gabriel’s liquid organic fertilizer. In an evaluation made by a group of agriculturists from Tarlac, it was established that Gabriel’s product has the capacity to return to decaying farmlands the “biodiversified living bridge”, which is the strongest link from the soil to the root of the crops, enabling the soil to regenerate and produce more.
ESCAPING DEATH FROM FLOODWATERS: Running away from surging floodwaters is just one way of evading certain death, but, as experience especially by Mindanao residents has shown, it is not always effective. The question therefore is: is there a more effective way to avoid death and destruction from floodwaters? The answer is yes, there is, and it is by listening to God once more (which means, reading His Bible) and obeying His command more sincerely, since the Bible is saying that floodwaters represent a curse from God (Matthew 7:24-27).
“The biodegradable farm wastes, plants and animal wastes will be
Samar Weekly Express
FEBRUARY 14 - 20, 2012
COMMENTARY
ISMAEL AMIGO
1st-APLUMA
“They only manage to get away with it through their own acumen or by throwing around their vast influence.”
OPINION
7
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Losing steam WHAT happens when a steam ship loses steam upstream? Yerright, it will gradually slide back to where it left off. This, am afraid is the exact triangulates for the whole impeachment process. The prosecution is fumbling; the defense is scrambling for objections, technicalities and what have yous; the public losing steam of its interest, the media is growing tired and what have you. Where do we go from here? Now the same prosecution team from Congress is planning to file a separate impeachment case against, this time, Associate Justice Antonio. This raised a howl from no other than Sen. Joker Arroyo who told his counterparts from the Lower House to go easy as they already have their hands full and stop treating the senate as an impeachment mill. Indeed, both Houses (Upper and Lower) have other things more important than trying people perceived to have lost public trust. And truly, the same people trying them of the same may also have cases in their hands ranging from misappropriations of public funds and even plunder. They only manage to get away with it through their own acumen or by throwing around their vast influence. And as Jesus Christ said: “May the person without sin cast the first stone.” With it, methinks, impeachment courts would go empty instantly. Now they are at the crossroads. The prosecution team is losing steam, threatened even, to losing perhaps, altogether the case in their hands. And that would be the start of the end of President Noy’s popular administration. That would likewise, draw us back anew to where we started.
DISCLAIMER: Views expressed in the opinion and commentary sections do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of The Samar Weekly Express. The SWE does not knowingly publish false information and may not be held liable for the views of readers exercising their right to free expression. The publication, however, reserves the right to edit contributions for clarity, as it sees fit. - Ed.
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We value your Opinion! Be heard and be counted, send us what you think, now! NURSING from page 8... lano University-Manila, 84.60; 8. Vincent Jerven Estose Barimbao, Xavier University, 84.40; Patrick Jose Agnar David, Saint Mary’s University, 84.40; Zina Marlyn Lorenzo Fronda, Laguna Northwestern College, 84.40; Ma. Leander Salcedo Garcia, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 84.40; Melanie Grace Sia Go, Xavier University, 84.40; Martina Aurea Malferrari Jugador, Xavier University, 84.40; Ruby Ann Mendoza Muyuela, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, , 84.40; Cris Joseph Florida Raymundo, Arellano University-Manila, 84.40; Kristian Irish Pipo Sacay, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 84.40; Inna Joyce Jusi Siazon, Saint Paul University-Tuguegarao, 84.40; Carren Agnes Honrada Solidor, Xavier University, 84.40; Cheyserr Tubadeza Zingapan, Saint Mary’s University, 84.40; 9. Robelen-Ann Getubig Callanta, Father Saturnino Urios University (Urios Coll), 84.20; Jinky Mendoza Cerbo, University of Perpetual Help Rizal-Molino, 84.20; Ingrid Doreen Sagun Dumalagan, Siliman University, 84.20; Kathleen Flores Eviza, Rizal Technological University, 84.20; Emman June Pahinte Rubin, Liceo de Cagayan University, 84.20; Jierell Mae Victor Saguinhon, Mountain
View College, 84.20; Ana Marie Hernando Salsona, University of San Agustin, 84.20; Aga Años Sibal, Capitol University (for. Cagayan Capitol Coll.), 84.20; 10. Michelle Calamba Ariola, Saint Paul University-Tuguegarao, 84.00; Sharwin Marie Sarno Catedral, Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod City, 84.00; Ivy May Soy Daus, Saint Louis University, 84.00; Ma. Cleo Guada Leonil Villanel Dequito, San Pedro College-Davao City, 84.00; Julie Carmen Jimena Doreza, Saint Paul University-Iloilo, 84.00; Belly Marie Jalos Faller, Southern Luzon State University-Lucban (SLPC), 84.00; Bonife Marie Sentorias Gaso, Siliman University, 84.00; Erica Dizer Hilado, Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod City, 84.00; Paul Jensen Eleno Malicsi, Arellano University-Manila, 84.00; Opalyn Grace Salcedo Malunes, Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod City, 84.00; Evangelina Cruz Naredo, University of Makati, 84.00; Abegail Bucu Perez, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 84.00; Mariel Kris Alcantara Rael, Xavier University, 84.00; Raiza Mae Gordiel Rodriguez, Xavier University, 84.00; Charles Riotita Sia, Saint Paul UniversityTuguegarao, 84.00; Raygene Valerie Soriano Terrado, University of Luzon (Luzon Coll.), 84.00.
DPWH from page 8...
network. The same transaction also covered the supply and installation of street-lighting facilities like decorative lamps along Patalinghug and Patalinghug avenues. Records show that the contract, costing P35,634,401.25, was signed between Dindin and Surla, board chairman of Gampik Construction and Development Inc. In awarding the contract to Gampik, the DPWH officials allegedly resorted to negotiated bidding and not competitive bidding in violation of the Government Procurement Reform Act. Based on the Ombudsman’s investigation, the contract price for the project was overpriced by P12,629,816 as against the anti-graft agency’s computation of only P23,004,584. Morales said the respondents violated the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and Commission on Audit Circular No. 85-55A, which only allows a 10 percent price variance in project costs. (From the wires)
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Samar Weekly Express
8 22, 760 Pass Nursing Licensure Exam MANILA, Philippines - The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 22,760 out of 67,095 passed the Nurse Licensure Examination given by the Board of Nursing in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Dagupan, Davao, Iloilo, La Union, Legazpi, Lucena, Nueva Ecija, Pagadian, Pampanga, Tacloban, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga last December 2011. The top 10 successful examinees are: 1. Jerald Lalaguna Pelayo, Mountain View College , 86.40; 2. Linsid Angelou Absin Tapongot, Xavier University 86.00; 3. Joanne Layosa Santamaria, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 86.80; 4. Jhomae Ferrer Castillo. Saint Mary’s University, 85.20; Melchor Noval Dapo Jr., Manila Adventist Medical Center and Sch. of Medical Arts, Inc., 85.20; Ralph Ryan Villafranca de la Rosa, Xavier University, 85.20; Princess Roschelle Domingo Limson, University of Perpetual Help System-Laguna, 85.20; 5. Jobelle Mamaril Calicdan, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 85.00; Jerico Puno Carreon, Manuel S. Energa Univ. FoundationLucena City, 85.00; Vins Mary Encarnacion Estilloro, University of San Agustin, 85.00; Reynaldo Serrano Flores Jr., Southern Luzon State University-Lucban (SLPC), 85.00; Romienne Lily June Soledad Garcia, University of Iloilo, 85.00; Euanne Cabillo Orellano, Remedios T. Romualdez Medical Foundation, 85.00; 6. Judy Caratao Bargas, Saint Anthony College of Roxas City, 84.80; Lexan Erdin Lim Cordial, Adventist University of the Philippines, 84.80; Mark Ray Aluk Espinoza, Xavier University, 84.80; 7. Katherene Palces Batuhan, Ateneo de Davao University, 84.60; Jack Lester Talaga Desembrana, Manuel S. Energa Univ. Foundation-Lucena City, 84.60; Raymond Frias Fabronero, University of San Carlos, 84.60; Nikki Ico Magleo, Saint Louis University, 84.60; Neil Dy Obsioma, Xavier University, 84.60; Tiffany Ann Palencia Palmares, Central Philippine University, 84.60; Niña Hamili Garde Piao, College of Maasin, 84.60; Paul Gibson Sepe Reyes, University of San Carlos, 84.60; Maria Mahini Camo Santos, ArelSEE NURSING P8
NATIONAL FACTS. CPP-NPA joins search for Palparan Straight
FEBRUARY 14 - 20, 2012
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DOST project brings more hope, less side-effect to cancer patients
TACLOBAN CITY – The Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army has joined in the search for retired Army General Jovito Palparan, who remains at large despite a reported manhunt operations launched by the government against him. The order was made through the website of the CPP’s Philippine Revolution Web Central. “The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the New People’s Army (NPA) today called on people to report with dispatch any sightings of or information about Gen. Jovito Palparan to any unit of the NPA,” it said on its statement. The same statement has said that the CPP central organs have “authorized all units of the NPA, including its people’s militias, to take General Palparan into custody and surrender him to the duly-constituted revolutionary authorities.” “The NPA, the people’s militias and revolutionary mass organizations should closely look into reports of Palparan’s presence in their areas of responsibility and take immediate action,” it added. Palparan served as Eastern Visayas top Army official in 2005 with human rights group Katungod-Sinirangan Bisayas claiming that about 702 human rights abuses ranging from deaths and force disappearances committed during his time. The CPP also criticized the administration of President Aquino for its alleged failure to arrest Palparan, who was ordered arrested by the Malolos Regional Trial Court last December. The controversial Army general was earlier charged with the kidnapping, illegal detention and torture of UP students Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeño, who were abducted with peasant activist Manuel Meriño by armed soldiers in Hagonoy, Bulacan in 2005. “It is a matter of obligation to the Filipino people and state responsibility that the people’s democratic government undertakes the necessary measures to put General Palparan under its duly authorized judicial organs,” the CPP said. Palparan, despite the warrant issued against him, remains at large with his whereabouts still unknown despite the reported massive manhunt operations initiated by the national government. Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, however, stressed that there is no shoot-to-kill order against the controversial Army general. And in his Facebook account, Palparan expressed his “heartfelt gratitude” to those who continue to support him. He also vow to continue to fight as he maintained his innocence. (jag)
Palparan: AFP not coddling me MALOLOS CITY , Philippines – Re�red Army general Jovito Palparan yesterday denied that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is coddling him, saying that even if re�red generals would offer him help, he would turn it down. “This is my own fight, do not blame the AFP and the re�red generals for the con�nued failure of the government to have me arrested,” said Palparan in a one-page statement given to reporters by one of his legal counsels, lawyer Jesus Santos. He said he has deep respect for the AFP and the re�red generals and he would not put their reputa�on at stake. “I don’t want them to be involved,” he said. “Once again, I call on the human rights groups to stop dragging the name of the AFP and the re�red generals. Stop accusing them of coddling me,” Palparan said, reitera�ng his vow not to surrender. Palparan is on the run a�er he was charged for the disappearance of two female student ac�vists, Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeño, in 2006. Palparan said he has instructed his lawyers to file all pleadings allowed before the court and the Department of Jus�ce to prove that the charges of kidnapping with serious illegal deten�on filed against him are untrue. Meanwhile, Santos appealed to the government to consider u�lizing Palparan for his skills brought by his training and experience as a soldier. “General Palparan has always expressed his love for our country. He was never tainted with charges of corrup�on,” Santos said. He added that his client had even been sent by the government to head the Philippine con�ngent to East Timor and Iraq. Santos said he has wri�en a le�er to the director of the Na�onal Bureau of Inves�ga�on (NBI) to help find Cadapan and Empeño, both students of the University of the Philippines, who were reportedly seized in Hagonoy, Bulacan on June 26, 2006. Last week, Santos manifested in court that he had received informa�on that the two students are supposedly s�ll alive. “I believe that they are s�ll alive, and if found, there will be no case against General Palparan,” he said. However, militant groups think otherwise, saying that the informa�on manifested in court by Santos may lead to another wild goose chase, and may also be part of efforts to delay the case. The Alyansa ng Mamamayan para sa Karapatang Pantao-Bulacan chapter said Palparan must be put behind bars, even challenging him to surrender and prove his innocence before the court of law.
“One Call can saves Lives” Call the Police: SAMAR POLICE PROVINCIAL OFFICE Tel. No. 055-251-2722 Mobile No. 0908-9603294 NORTHERN SAMAR POLICE OFFICE Mobile No. 0915-3557182
EASTERN SAMAR POLICE OFFICE Mobile No. 0927-2052942 LEYTE PROVINCIAL POLICE OFC. Mobile No. 0939-8953627
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MORE hope, less side-effect. This noble way of treating cancer is good news to patients and their loved ones. Developed by experts led by Dr. Jay Lazaro of the Institute of Biology, University of the Philippines Diliman, the treatment entails the use of immunoliposomes as carriers of drug in cancer therapy. It is currently being tested on mice and part of a project funded by the Department of Science and Technology. “This kind of breakthrough technology is part of DOST’s drug discovery program for 2012,” said Sec. Mario Montejo. “It lists high in the priorities under the Department’s antibody molecular oncology R&D in our search for anti-cancer treatments suitable to Filipinos.” Immunoliposome technology is a more effective drug delivery procedure. In this method, the cancer-treating drugs are coated with liposomes or sacs that can be filled with drugs to treat cancer or any other disease. The technology is more specific as it targets only cancer less. Since there are less non-cancer cells affected by the treatment, there is less toxicity and less pain to the patient. This new technology is much better than the more common method called chemotherapy in which drug is administered intravenously or injected drop-by-drop into the vein. The procedure lasts about 60 to 120 minutes and repeated every three to four weeks. In general, chemotherapy damages cells that are dividing, including normal cells in the hair, skin, lining of the mouth and digestive system. These body parts are frequently growing or constantly renewing themselves. As a result, patients experience side effects such as nausea or vomiting, immediate allergic reaction, fatigue, weight loss, taste and smell changes resulting in loss of appetite, and hair loss. Pain is also a common experience among cancer patients, resulting from the cancer itself or the cancer treatment. Although different people may react differently to different drugs, most cancer patients suffer similar toxicity and side effects. These effects can be unpleasant and usually give discomfort to patients and their loved ones who may be affected physically and emotionally. “At present, we are testing the technology using Caelyx, a certain cancer drug. However, the technology can be eventually used for any other drug and any other illness,” revealed Dr. Lazaro. Caelyx treatment for cancer may cost about P40,000 to 45,000 for every 20 mg. Although treatment by immunoliposome may cost higher, it is more effective as it is target-specific and has less toxicity and side effects. This means less fatigue for the patient and greater chance of winning and recovering against the disease. Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the Philippines. It ranks third after communicable diseases and cardiovascular diseases, according to the Department of Health. (Maria Judith L. Sablan, S&T Media Service)
11 DPWH officials face raps in another lamppost scam MANILA, Philippines - Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales yesterday ordered the filing of graft charges against 11 officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Region 7 for their alleged involvement in another lamppost scam in Cebu. Those ordered indicted before the Sandiganbayan were DPWH regional director Robert Lala; assistant regional director Gloria Dindin; assistant regional director and Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) chairperson Marlina Alvizo; and maintenance division OIC-chief Pureza Fernandez. Also included as respondents were BAC members Cresencio Bagolor, Agustinito Hermoso, Luis Galang and Restituto Diano; Technical Working Group (TWG) members Ayaon Manggis, Marilyn Ojeda, and Teresa Bernido; and private respondent Gerardo Surla. Some of those being charged now are the same DPWH officials already being tried for another alleged scam in the purchase of Cebu lampposts worth P365 million in 2006, along with two mayors and a number of local government officials. Former ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez ordered the filing of the case in May 2009. In this latest case, the Ombudsman said the DPWH officials should also be held liable for the questionable and overpriced purchase of street-lighting equipment and supplies for Lapu-Lapu City in March 2007. The contract was covered by four projects which involved the supply and installation of testing and commissioning of LED bulbs, traffic signal lantern and other traffic control devices at the junctions of M.L. Quezon Avenue and Terminal building access road and the M.L. Quezon and Patalinghug avenues, and the supply and installation of street-lighting facilities along the Punta Engaño road SEE DPWH P7
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Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 8th Judicial Region Branch 33 Calbiga, Samar IN RE: THE MATTER OF JUDICIAL DECLARATION OF PRESUMPTIVE DEATH OF CESARIO GILBOY, RUTH C. REPOSO, Petitioner, CIVIL CASE NO. C-2012-1176 For: JUDICIAL DECLARATION OF PRESUMPTIVE DEATH x-------------x ORDER This is a verified petition to declare Cesario Gilboy, husband of petitioner Ruth C. Heposo, presumptively dead for the purpose of remarriage of the petitioner. The petition alleges that the petitioner contracted marriage with Cesario Gilboy on January 7, 1981 at the St. Rose of Lima Parish Church of Villareal, Samar, in a wedding solemnized by Rev. Fr. Luis S. Llarenas. After their marriage, they lived at Brgy. Villarosa, Villareal, Samar, and their union was blessed with three (3) children. However, the petitioner was subjected to physical abuse by Cesario Gilboy during their union, and sometime in November 1996, the latter, without the
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knowledge and consent of the petitioner, took their savings and left their conjugal dwelling, never to be seen or heard again. The petitioner took earnest efforts to locate his whereabouts, however, all efforts proved futile. And considering that Cesario Gilboy has been absent for more than fifteen (15) years, the petitioner is convinced that her husband is already dead. The petitioner furnished copies of her petition to the Office of the Solicitor General, National Statistics Office, Manila, and the Local Civil Registrar of Villareal, Samar, per registry receipts attached to the original copy of the petition. Finding the instant petition sufficient in form and substance, the same is hereby given DUE COURSE. The petitioner is ordered to publish this Order in a newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Samar and accredited by this Court, to be determined by raffle, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks at the petitioner’s expense. The initial hearing is scheduled on March 27, 2012 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning. Furnish copies of this Order to the Office of the Solicitor General, the office of Samar Provincial Prosecutor in Catbalogan City, Atty. Edilberto G. Morales, the petitioner and the last known address of Cesario Gilboy. IN CHAMBERS, Regional Trial Court, Branch 33, Calbiga, Samar. February 7, 2012
(Sgd.) JANET M. CABALONA Presiding Judge SWE Feb. 7-13, 14-20 & 21-27, 2012 issue
Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 8th Judicial Region BRANCH 30 Basey, Samar BENJY ROBERT G. FERRERAS, Petitioner, -versusLOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR of Municipality of Marabut. SPECIAL PROCEEDING No. 2012-01-746 For: CANCELLATION OF BIRTH CERTIFICATE UNDER REGISTRY NO. 2313 AND CORRECTION OF BIRTH CERTIFICATION UNDER REGISTRY NO. 2011-287 x----------------x ORDER A verified petition having been filed with the Court by Benjy Roberto G. Ferreras through counsel Atty. Antonio C. Lopez, Jr. praying that after publication due notice and hearing the Local Civil Registry of Marabut, Samar as well as the office of the National Statistics Office, Quezon City to undertake cancellation of birth certificate under Registry No. 2313 and necessary correction of the entries of the birth certificate under Registry No. 2011-287 such as the date of the marriage of petitioners parents from March 22, 1957 to correct one March 16, 1957, as well as the age of the Father from 31 to 33 and his mother from 33 to 31. The petition being sufficient in form and substance same is hereby considered. Hence, let the initial hearing of this case be set on April 19, 2012 at 8:30 in the morning in this Court, 2nd Floor Executive
Building, Basey, Samar, at which date, time and place, all interested persons may appear may appear and show cause, if any, why this petition should not be granted. Let copy of this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner once a w eek for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation selected by raffle under the supervision of the Clerk of Court and duly accredited by the Court and the petitioner. Furnish a copy of this order the LCR of Marabut, Samar, the Civil Registrar General, the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor of Samar, the Office of the Solicitor General and the petitioner. Te petitioner is likewise ordered to furnish them also a copy of the petition. SO ORDERED. IN CHAMBERS, this 10th day of February 2012, at Basey, Samar, Philippines.
(Sgd.) AGERICO A. AVILA Presiding Judge SWE Feb. 14-20; 21-27 & 28
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Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 8th Judicial Region Branch 29 Catbalogan City, Samar IN THE : CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE BIRTH CERTIFICATE OF LEA CARISMA OBREGON, LEA CARISMA OBREGON, Petitioner -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF CATBALOGAN, SAMAR and THE NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE, QUEZON CITY, METRO MANILA, Respondents. Spec. Pro. No. 8159 For: Correction of Entry. x-----------------x ORDER Filed with this Court is the above-mentioned petition by Lea Carisma Obregon Tan for correction of entry in her certificate issued by the Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Catbalogan, Samar and the National Statistics Office (NSO). Petitioner prays that this Court after due notice and hearing, issue an order to direct the Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Catbalogan, Samar and the NSO to correct her birth records particularly her gender from “MALE” to “FEMALE.”
Finding the petition to be sufficient in form, the same is given due course. Let the initial hearing of this petition be set on March 28, 2012 at 8:30 in the morning at the Session Hall of this Court, on which date time and place, any person may oppose and show cause why this petition should not be granted. The petitioner is directed to cause at his own expense, the publication of this Order once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in an accredited newspaper of general circulation in the province of Samar to be selected by raffle under the supervision of the Executive Judge and the Office of the Clerk of Court. Furnish copies of this Order the Office of the Clerk of Court, the Office of the Solicitor General, the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor of Samar, the Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Catbalogan, Samar, the National Statistics Office, Quezon City, attaching thereto copies of the petition and its annexes. Send likewise copy of this Order to the petitioner and his counsel. SO ORDERED. IN CHAMBERS, 14th February 2012 Catbalogan Samar.
(Sgd.) AGERICO A. AVILA Presiding Judge SWE Feb. 14-20; 21-27 & 28 – Mar. 5, 2012
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FEBRUARY 14 - 20, 2012
Manny Pacquiao dumps vices
PHILIPPINE boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao says he has given up gambling, cockfighting and other vices to become a goodwill ambassador for the Catholic church. Pacquiao, one of the richest men in the Philippines and a national icon, also announced that he had sold his shares in a Manila casino, and in a nightclub and a bar, while also giving away to friends all his fighting cocks. “I am no longer in the vice business. I’ve sold my shares in a big nightclub along with my shares in a Manila casino outlet,” the 32-year-old, the
best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet, told reporters in a recent interview in the southern Philippines. “I do realise I was a weak person before. If I had died the other year, I believe my soul would have ended in hell,” he said. “I had faith, but I was doing things which were against the will of God.” Aides said the eight-time world champion had owned more than a thousand roosters worth 30 million pesos ($709,000) for cockfights, a Philippine blood sport where the birds fight to the death
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armed with sharp metal spurs. His remaining past time now is basketball, said Pacquiao, who is also a member of the Philippine parliament. Regarded as one of the greatest boxers in history, amassing a 54-3 win-loss record with two drawn bouts, Pacquiao holds a record eight world titles in as many weight divisions. He often cites God as the source of his ongoing success and wears a rosary around his neck before and after fights. However he has not escaped intrigue and reports of him womanising -- despite being married -- and gambling have become rich tabloid fodder. “I have found my real peace and happiness now,” he said. “I draw strength and inspiration from reading and hearing the word of God.” He said he and his wife -along with friends -- now read the Bible every day at home. The powerful Catholic church in the Philippines said last month it had asked Pacquiao to become its ambassador. “With all humility, yes, I am accepting the daunting task,” he said. The Pacquiao shares in the casino, called Poker Asia, were sold and the proceeds given to its workers, his spokeswoman Rose Tamayo told reporters, without giving the value of the assets. “It was a very lucrative business. But this only shows the Congressman’s resolve to change for the better,” she said. (From the wires)
The Bourne Legacy film trailer released THE first trailer for the espionage thriller The Bourne Legacy, starring Jeremy Renner, was released online February 8 with the tagline: “There was never just one.” The fourth installment of the Bourne series, which previously starred Matt Damon as Jason Bourne, centers on a new CIA operative, played by Renner, who is welcomed to the Outcome program. The action-packed footage shows the new hero fighting with fierce precision, in scenes that follow up the previous films’ situations. The cast also includes Rachel Weisz (The Lovely Bones) and Edward Norton (The Illusionist) and reprises roles for Albert Finney, David Strathairn, Scott Glenn and Joan Allen. Tony Gilroy, who wrote the previous Bourne screenplays, takes on directing this film from an original story, based on Robert Ludlum’s novels. He’s also directed thrillers Duplicity and Michael Clayton. The Bourne Legacy releases August 3 in North America, followed by Australia, the UK, Norway, Sweden and Argentina through August, and rolls out in Russia, Germany, France, South Africa and other markets in September.
NEW NBA STAR Jeremy Lin of the New York Knicks drives past Walker Russell of the Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden in January 2012. “Indescribable,” that’s Lin’s verdict on his sudden rise to sports stardom thanks to two outstanding performances for the New York Knicks. (AFP)
Jordan hailed as greatest ever on 49th birthday RETIRED NBA legend Michael Jordan was hailed as the greatest player in basketball history by two potential rivals to the throne on Friday as he celebrated his 49th birthday. As the NBA currently salutes Jeremy Lin, the first US-born NBA player of Taiwanese and Chinese heritage who has gone from bench-warmer to star for the New York Knicks, Jordan’s legendary career was recalled by other icons. LeBron James, the Miami Heat star still searching for his first title after two losing trips to the NBA Finals, posted a Twitter message calling Jordan The G.O.A.T., for Greatest of All Time. “Happy B-day to the person I idolized and wanna to be just like as a kid playing the game of basketball Michael Jordan. #TheG.O.A.T.” James tweeted. Magic Johnson, the former Los Angeles Lakers star who now serves as a television commentator, praised Jordan in comments for ESPN. “His will to win was higher than everyone else’s,” Johnson said of Jordan. “His talent level was higher than everyone else’s and then he was the ultimate competitor. He wanted to win more than anybody else I’ve ever faced in my life. “Michael Jordan, happy birthday -- you know
you were the world’s greatest.” Jordan guided the Chicago Bulls to six NBA crowns in the 1990s, winning three in a row before retiring at age 30 in 1993 to attempt an ill-fated career in baseball. In March of 1995, Jordan returned to the NBA but the Bulls were ousted by Orlando in the second round of the playoffs. But then Jordan guided the Bulls to NBA crowns in 1996, 1997 and 1998 before retiring for a second time in 1999. Jordan was named president of the NBA Washington Wizards in 2001 and returned to the court for two final seasons with the team before retiring yet again in 2003, finishing with 32,292 points, third on the NBA all-time list. The Bulls referenced Jordan’s changing jersey numbers at various stages of his career in a birthday tweet, noting that “Whether 23, 45, or even 12: there is only 1 MJ. Happy Birthday Michael Jordan.” The NBA acknowledged their last defining superstar by tweeting, “Happy 49th Birthday to the one and only Michael Jordan! #GOAT #TooManyAccomplishmentsToList”. After flopping in the front office for the Wizards, Jordan took an executive role with the NBA Charlotte Bobcats and then purchased the NBA club, but Jordan’s on-court magic has not followed him as
a dealmaker and talent scout. The Bobcats have the NBA’s worst record this season at 3-26 and are mired in a 16-game losing streak. With high-leaping acrobatic shots and clutch baskets in the dying seconds of games, Jordan lived up to the Nike-powered hype as a generation of basketball followers sought to “Be Like Mike” and wear Air Jordan sneakers. Jordan’s endorsement power continues well after his playing career has ended. Forbes magazine has estimated Jordan’s net worth at $500 million, largely because his Nike brand items remain a $1 billion moneymaker. Jordan led the NBA in scoring for 10 seasons, seven in a row from 1987 through 1993 and again from 1996-1998. He was a five-time NBA regular-season Most Valuable Player and six-time NBA Finals Most Valuable Player. He also won two Olympic gold medals, most famously with the 1992 Barcelona Olympic US “Dream Team”, the first all-NBA squad to compete in the Olympics and still the most dominant team ever seen in the Games. Jordan divorced his wife Juanita in 2006 and became engaged to Cuban-born model Yvette Prieto last December. (From the wires)