Samar Weekly
EXPRESS Chronicling Events in Samar Island Since 2002
VOL. 10, NO. 27
The Exponent of Samar’s Progress
FEBRUARY 5 - 11, 2013
DSWD 8 regional director Remia Tapispisan (right) cuts the ribbon during the opening of the Trade Fair and Exhibit of sustainable livelihood programs of the office in line with their 62nd founding anniversary. Assisting her is Policy and Plans Division chief Yvonne Abunales held at the office compound, Tacloban City, February 4. (Raul S. Tiozon/PIA8)
IN 2012
NPA kills 53 civilians; committed 374 attacks
CATBALOGAN CITY – The communist organization, New People’s Army committed 374 violent incidents which have caused the death of 53 civilians in the country or one civilian in a week, the military reported over the weekend. The Public Affairs Office of the AFP reported that 10 of these incidents were committed this January, the latest of which occurred in a mountain village in La Castellana town, Negros Occidental killing ten innocent civilians and wounding nine others. In total, the NPA killed 81 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, eight from the Philippine National Police and 22
CATBALOGAN CITY, PHILIPPINES
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Police recover grenades in Ex-chieftain’s house
THE police recovered hand grenades in the house of former village chairman and his son’s residence during a surprise raid in this city Wednesday morning. The police identified the suspects as certain Antonio Casurao Bantad Sr @ Donyong, a former Barangay chairman of Barangay Danao, Tanambacan District, which is being chaired now by his wife Marina. Also arrested were the couple’s son Antonio Ladag Bantad Jr @ Nonoy, currently a Barangay councilor also of said village. The Regional Special Operation Task Group in Samar raided simultaneously the houses of the suspects at around 5:30 o’ clock early morning of February 6 by virtue of search warrants issued by Hon. Alphinor C. Serrano, Executive Judge of Regional Trial Court Branch 6 in Tacloban City. The police recovered two (2) hand grenades and four (4) slugs of unknown caliber from the house of the older Bantad while one grenade, one bladed weapon known as “balisong” and iron fist (jabbing-lesa) were seized from the younger Bantad. The raid was witnessed by their fellow village officials, the police said. “These police operations are part of our effort in ensuring secure and fair elections in Samar province which was earlier listed as an election priority area,” PNP reg’l director Chief Supt. Elmer Soria said. “Cases for violation of Republic Act 9516 are being prepared for filing in court against the two suspects who are currently detained at Calbayog City Police Station lock-up cell,” Soria added. Since January 13, the start of election campaign, at least 15 gun ban violators, including an employee of the Commission on Elections was arrested and 21 firearms of assorted calibers were seized by the police. (Ricky J. Bautista)
Election ‘gun ban’ violators reach 635 By RICKY J. BAUTISTA SWE News and Features
Gen. Bautista CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA). For its part, the AFP reported to have successfully neutralized 555 NPA personalities in 2012 of which 367 voluntarily surrendered to the government and seizure of hundred of
See NPA page 2...
City OKs anti-poverty plan
THE Catbalogan City Sangguniang Panglungsod has approved the Local Poverty Reduction Plan 2013 program as endorsed by the City Development Council. The plan with programs and projects collectively drawn through a participatory process with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders aimed to address the needs of the poor constituents in the city. The city is one of the 609 selected cities and municipalities identified in the cluster on Human Development and Poverty Reduction. The program was spearheaded by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC). The budget was sub-divided to the city’s agriculture office with P6.1 million for National Fishery Program, P4 million for the irrigation projects and P2 million for the rice subsidy program intended for indigent families.
See CITY page 2...
CATBALOGAN CITY -The Philippine National Police has recorded 635 violations of the election gun ban that has been in effect since January 13, including village officials in ¬Calbayog City in Samar. The authorities said 569 of the 635 were civilians, 10 were government officials, 41 were security guards, 11 policemen, one soldier and one Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit militiaman. Eastern Visayas regional police director Chief Superintendent Elmer Soria said former barangay chairman Antonio Bantad Sr. and son were arrested after grenades were discovered inside their homes. Bantad is the former chairman of Barangay Danao in the Tinambacan district of the said city while his son is an incumbent village councilor, Soria said. “These police operations are part of our effort in ensuring secure and fair elections in
The Chief PNP Alan Purisima inspects the guns seized in EV since gun ban start. Samar province which was earlier listed as an election priority area,” Soria added. Earlier this month, an army man was also arrested for violating the poll gun ban in Matuguinao, Samar. Meanwhile, a miner was also arrested on February 5 for transporting 150 sticks of dynamite with a permit. Private miner Donato Bincola, 40, was nabbed by the security guards of Benguet Corporation who also seized the 150 dynamites that measured around 12 inches long each, the police said. Under Section 32 of RA 7166, during the election period, no person shall bear, carry or transport firearms or other deadly weapons in public places, including any building, street, park, private vehicle or public conveyance, even if licensed to possess or carry the same, unless authorized in writing by the Commission on Elections. The issuance of firearms licenses shall be suspended during the election period. The gun ban will last until June 12. During the ban, permits to carry firearms outside residences are suspended. Only law enforcers in uniform and on duty are allowed to carry firearms outside their homes during the ban.
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Samar Weekly Express
THE REGION
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FEBRUARY 5 - 11, 2013
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Jetty ports in Sohoton Cave in Basey completed TACLOBAN CITY– The establishment of three jetty ports in the town of Basey, Samar is now completed, according to An Waray Party-list Rep. Neil Benedict Montejo. “The jetty port will make for tourist travel to the Sohoton Cave and Natural Bridge Park much easier and safer,” Montejo told Samar Weekly Express. It was the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), which has the task to develop, manage and supervise infrastructure projects in the country, that implemented the project with a cost of P5 million. “It will be turned over by TIEZA to the local government unit (LGU) of Basey that will maintain the facility,” Montejo added. Montejo said that after its turn-over to Basey LGU, other projects that would be implemented for Sohoton are the improvement of trails going to cave, installation of lighting system and construction of comfort rooms.. “We don’t want our tourists to be safe while inside the cave. So we need these facilities,” the party-list solon said. He however clarified that before they could implement these projects, they will have to conduct a study to ensure that it will not destroy the natural beauty of the place. (Roel Amazona)
THE Philippine Army discovered an abandoned 15-personnel NPA camp in Northern Samar (20IB photo)
IN SAMAR
Security forces, NPA clash anew CATBALOGAN CITY – Members of the Communist Party of the Philippines New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) battled again with the Philippine Army in Samar towns. Capt. Gene Orense, Army spokesman in 8ID, said the 45-minute gun duel took place in Barangay Rizal in Basey Samar last February 1. No casualties on both sides. Orense said firearms and ammunition left the NPAs was recovered in the encounter area such as M16-rifle, a rifle grenade, two long magazines with 58 live ammunitions, 21 live ammunitions for M1 Garand rifle and subversive documents. Also recently, operatives belonged to 87th Infantry Battalion also encountered some 20 fully armed NPA rebels at the vicinity of Barangay Baes, some 18 kilometers from the town proper of Motiong, Samar.
A soldier was killed and two soldiers wounded during that fight. The two encounters between the AFP and NPA came after Eastern Samar towns were declared insurgency-free. The towns of Balangiga, Quinapondan, Taft, Maydolong, Balangkayan, Hernani, San Julian, San Policarpo and Sulat along with Salcedo, Guiuan, Mercedes and Borongan City and Balangiga were declared “manageable conflict-affected and ready for development.” The military said the number of revolutionary fighters is down to 4,000 from a peak of 24,000 in the mid-1980s. The CPP-NPA-NDF, however, disputed the reports of the military showing proof of encounters and ambuscades to back up their claim. (Ricky Bautista)
CITY from page 1 ...
Man busted anew for drugs
The Education department was also allotted with P4 million for the innovative programs and access to education for street children, children in conflict areas, children with special needs, and other out of school youth (expansion of the Open High School Program) and additional P100 thousand for the school garden. Meanwhile, the DILG allocated some P3.5 million for search and rescue operations, P2.650 million for potable water supply and P500 thousand for capacitating Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council in the formulation of multi hazard maps and contingency plan. The City Health offices got P3 million health facility enhancement program, P2 million for national pharmaceutical policy development including provision for drugs and medicines; and P1.2 million for additional Philhealth enrollment. (Avha Hilario)
‘Lolong,’ the longest croc is dead LOLONG, the world’s longest crocodile in captivity, is dead says Dr. Alex Collantes of Davao Crocodile Park in Davao City. “Lolong died at exactly 8:12 p.m. February 10,” says Dr. Collantes, who rushed to Bunawan town in Agusan Del Sur on Sunday to check the crocodile at the request of its keepers. The cause of death is still not known but experts have found that its left stomach is ballooned, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur Mayor Elorde says. Named “Lolong” upon his captivity 2 years ago, the crocodile was an Indo-Pacific or Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) measured at 20 feet 3 inches (6.17 m), making him one of the largest crocodiles ever measured from snout-to-tail. In November of 2011, Australian crocodile expert Dr. Adam Britton of National Geographic sedated and measured ‘Lolong’ in his enclosure and confirmed ‘Lolong’ as the world’s longest crocodile ever caught and placed in captivity. Town officials said that experts from the National Geographic Channel found out that Lolong breaks the record of the previous record-holder: a 17 feet 11.75 inches (5.48 m) male saltwater crocodile named “Cassius” kept in the crocodile park
BASEY, Samar -- A jobless man out on bail for his previous drug case was again busted for the same breach, authorities said Sunday. This time, however, Romy Chito Rivera, 42, a resident of Barangay San Roque, Sogod Southern Leyte failed to post bail as the quantity of illegal drugs he allegedly sold to an agent of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is non-bailable. He was nabbed near a shopping mall in Sogod town, some 126 kilometers from the region’s capital of Tacloban City. PDEA Regional Director Atty. Gil T. Pabilona said Rivera had been under close watch by his agents since his release on bail for his drug possession case in 2012. The suspect yielded a total of around one (1) gram of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu following a sale transaction with the authorities, it was learned. The PDEA through Pabilona filed a complaint for the sale of dangerous drugs against the suspect at the Sogod RTC in Sogod, S. Leyte. The court will penalize him with life imprisonment and payment of P500 thousand to P10 million pesos if convicted. “These people do not realize that release on bail doesn’t mean that the case against them has been laid to rest.” Atty. Pabilona said adding that any person arrested is always watched, more so when they are granted temporary liberty. “The tendency is always that their audacity increases, lulled by the false assurance that they have beaten the law because they have managed to escape confinement,” Atty. Pabilona said. To date, Rivera wasn’t able to post bail since the weight of the drugs seized from him is non-bailable offense. He is now locked up at Sogod Municipal Police Station waiting for his trial. (Ricky Bautista) of MarineLand Melanesia in Queensland, Australia. The death of the big crocodile in the Philippines became trendy in the web and captured the headlines of the online breaking news. The hashtag #RIPLolong is on top of the social networking Twitter trend. Netizens in the social networking sites pours symphaty to the crocodile and to the Philippines for losing one of the world’s records as the longest ‘crocodile’ in captivity. (rjb)
NPA from page 1 ... its revolutionary hideouts. In January 2013, 21 NPAs were neutralized, 19 of which voluntarily surrendered. AFP chief of staff Gen. Emmanuel T. Bautista said the AFP would never waiver in its commitment to thwart NPA atrocities and armed violence until just and lasting peace and stability for our country is achieved. Despite this incident, the AFP will remain supportive of the peace efforts and peace-building undertakings of the government. “We will continue to intensify our focused security operations against armed rebels who continue to wage armed violence causing loss of innocent lives, destruction of properties, and damage to vital economic facilities and infrastructures,” Bautista said. In Eastern Visayas alone, a total of 131 NPA camps were already seized and discovered by the military troops. Eight camps were recovered with enemy resistance and 123 of the camps were seized without enemy resistance. The latest of which happened last Saturday (February 9) where elements of the 20th Infantry Battalion have seized another NPA hideaway in Barangay Happy Valley, San Isidro, Northern, Samar. “The NPA camp has one big function hall made of Nipa hut, some fifteen (15) makeshift bunkers that can accommodate more or less 20 communist terrorists, two (2) advance outposts,” said Lieutenant Colonel Noel A. Vestuir, commanding officer of the 20IB. Also recovered from the scene were a jungle pack, jungle hammock, leftist book entitled “Pag Aradman han mga Aktibista (Activist’s Journal),” a poncho, two magazines for cal .45 pistol with eight live ammunitions and two empty shells; one DSWD ID, one COMELEC ID, sim card, memory card, a USB or data traveler, belt bag and some personal belongings left by the fleeing communist terrorists. “We would like to commend the populace for always coordinating with us and denounces the presence of the NPAs who conduct extortion activities not only to businessmen but to ordinary farmers and populace in the area,” Vestuir added. Meanwhile, Major Gen. Gerardo T. Layug, commander of the 8th Infantry Division in Catbalogan City, said the discovery of several NPA camps is a clear manifestation that the NPA in Samar provinces is losing ground and influence over the people which will eventually lead to their downfall and collapse. “The 8ID is currently intensifying its efforts in securing our communities against all forms of armed threats through sustained security operations and constant coordination and linkages with the stakeholders through the spirit of ‘Bayanihan’ in attaining peace throughout the region,” Layug added. (Ricky J. Bautista)
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Samar Weekly Express
FEBRUARY 5 - 11, 2013
ENVIRONMENT
Village official, 12 others held for illegal drugs CATBALOGAN CITY – A Barangay Kagawad and 12 other individuals allegedly selling and using prohibited drugs called ‘shabu’ were rounded up by the police Friday night. Jose Pilapil, 48, a kagawad of Barangay 1, Poblacion Salug of this city was arrested by operatives of the Police Regional Special Operations Groups (RSOG) in a buybust operation at the corner Rizal Avenue and San Francisco Street. Recovered from Pilapil were two P500.00 bill with serial numbers FK201906 and SV769471 and bundle of buy-bust money. He was immediately brought to Catbalogan City Police Station for proper documentation while the confiscated items were submitted to Samar Provincial Crime Laboratory Office for examination. Aside from Pilapil, some 12 individuals including two security guards, businessmen, and jobless residents were also arrested for similar violations in various parts of the region. For the month of January 2013, the regional police had 24 successful anti-illegal drugs operations resulting in the arrest of 24 suspected drug pushers, 10 drug users, confiscation of 5.196 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” and 214.890 grams of dried marijuana leaves with a total estimated market value of P73,130.00, drug paraphernalia and filing of 24 drug charges in different courts. Cases for violations of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Drugs Act of 2002 was filed by the police against the suspects, PNP reg’l director Chief Supt. Elmer Soria told the Samar Weekly Express. (Ricky Bautista)
NDF: No ‘campaign fees’ asked to local bets
CATBALOGAN CITY -- The National Democratic Front in Eastern Visayas on Sunday denied the claimed of the 8th Infantry Division that revolutionary movement is extorting money from the politicians in the form of Permit-to-Campaign (PTC) or Permit-toWin (PTW) scheme. In a statement sent to The SWE, rebel priest Santiago Salas a.k.a Kumander Salas the reported ‘pricelist’ allegedly seized by the army troops from the NPA is “just an invention to discredit rebel’s underground movement.” “The politicians recognize that there are two governments in the country today, and in negotiating for electoral access they thereby accept the authority, territory, and the laws and policies of the People’s Democratic Government,” part of Salas letter said. Ka Salas said candidates entering the NPA-claimed territories should asked permission (and) must negotiate with them first. The NDF spokesman said there is no such thing as “price list” given to the politicians but some conditions or requirements must be agreed upon such as: (1) They must not threaten the people or buy votes, (2) they must not bring excessive armed security or the military and police in their campaign sorties, and (3) they must contribute to the well-being of the people. Earlier, the army reported that the NPA stepped its extortion activities demanding “campaign fees” as high as P5 million pesos to local candidates seeking for various elective position in Eastern Visayas.
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Ka Santiago Salas
Capt. Gene Orense Captain Gene Orense, 8ID spokesman said government troops seized documents from the NPA detailing their implementation of PTC/PTW in areas controlled by the rebels. The army official said the NPA demanded P5 million for a gubernatorial aspirants, P500 thousand for congressional and vice-gubernatorial aspirants, P100 thousand for provincial board members and mayoralty candidates, P75 thousand for vice-mayoralty candidates and P50 thousand for any councilor joining the May 2013 polls. The army official also revealed that aside from the campaign fees, the rebels also asked firearms or P180,000 in cash per candidate. (Ricky Bautista)
Cave Tourism: The next adventure By RICKY J. BAUTISTA SWE News and Features
attraction in Northern Samar
IF you feel like being a caver just for a day, kit yourself out with a lighted helmet, a jumpsuit and boots, and prepare to descend into the entrails of Northern Samar tourist caves. This could be a chance for you to do far more than simply go on a sightseeing trip and enables you to personally see stone forests, amazing underground cathedrals and discover the secrets of these show caves. Cave tourism, among many types of ecotourism, has gained popularity now in the Philippines particularly in Samar provinces where the country’s biggest caves can be KM3 Caves in Las Navas, Northern Samar found. Compared to other outdoor gigs, like mountaineering or said that as of today, around 60 domestic tourists have confirmed scuba diving, caving seduces tourists with its set of dangers, joining the event. mysteries and thrills. “For a minimal fee of only P350, one will be given a souvenir And this town invites you, dares you, to discover them shirt and enjoy trekking, mountain climbing, cave explorations, yourself. water sports plus informative lectures on Basic Caving and Safety, Next month, the local tourism office will offer a cave tour and Cave Formations and Geology, Environmental Protection and river cruise which will feature the town’s best kept secrets - the other sports tourism topics,” Deananeas said. famous KM3 Caves and Pinipisakan Falls. “Cave tourism in the country is still quite young,” Deananeas The province backed up the initiative of a local adventure said arguing that gatherings like this also teach them to learn group called Laoang Spelunkers Club in hosting the first-ever good practices and promotes the tourism industry. Northern Samar Cave Congress on March 1 and 2 highlighting Caving, he said, could be more “technically demanding” the enchanting caves, rivers, waterfalls, mountains, old churches, compared to other sports as it needs skills, endurance tests. culture and festivals. Inside a cave, “you get to feel how small you are in the scheme Local caver Jerome Amante Deananeas, one of the organizers, of things. There would be times when you won’t even see the walls or the ceiling but only the small space around your body. The fear factor is higher and the prize is undeniably very rewarding.” Livelihood Aside from this event, local residents served as “tour guides” offer cave tours with add-ons, such as river-cruise, catering meals, souvenirs and home stay services. Local folks living near the Pinipisakan Falls were turned from a mere farmer into guides, boatmen into engaging storytellers, plain housewives into skilled cooks and souvenir-makers. Pinipisakan Falls is a series of star-like waterfalls and a multi-layered cascading attraction located 15 kilometers away from the town of Las Navas. KM3 Cave or Ginagatusan Caves and its subterranean natural pool are the main attractions of the area and are only accessible by motor boats. To get into these spots, one may take one hour river cruise and three kilometers trek that involves negotiating very steep trails, narrow dirt roads in single file. In 2007, the province and its islets have been declared by the Tourism department as Eco Tourism Zone. Few years later, recreational activities and tourism-related businesses flourished Pinipisakan Falls, Las Navas, N. Samar in the province.
Soldier from 43rdIB held
R.R.V. HARDWARE
Brgy. 3, Poblacion, CATBALOGAN CITY –A corporal soldier from the 43rd Calbiga, Samar Infantry Battalion was arrested by the police for possessing an DEALER: Gravel and Sand, Hollowblocks and other undocumented firearm Saturday night, the police said. construction materials Arrested was certain Ernie Buton of the 43IB stationed in Contact: HENRY BORDO Matuguinao, Samar. He was held by the police for carrying unMobile: 09165998846/09295137472 licensed .45 Colt 1911 pistol. When accosted by the police, “the suspect is reportedly under the influence of liquor.” He also failed to show any documents exempting him from the gun ban. Under Comelec Resolution No. 9561-A, no person shall bear, carry or transport firearms or other deadly weapons outside his residence or place of business, and in public places including any buildings, streets, parks, and private vehicles or public conveyances, even if licensed to possess or to carry the same, except only law enforcers in full uniform and on duty, during the election period from January 13 until June 12, 2013. Since the gun ban started last month, 15 violators were arrested and some 21 assorted firearms were confiscated by the police in various operations in Eastern Visayas. (Ricky Bautista) The police sets up checkpoints on ‘gun ban’ implementation
OPINION Samar Weekly Express
DALMACIO C. GRAFIL Publisher
FEBRUARY 5 - 11, 2013
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Columnists, Writers and Account Executives: Rommel L. Rutor 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 WEBSITE: www.issuu.com/samarweeklyexpress All rights reserved. Except as permitted by law, no part of Samar Weekly Express may be produced or distributed in any form or by any means stored in a database or retrieval system without its prior written permission from the publisher.
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EDITORIAL COMELEC’s inability to set system right affects possibility of alliances It is about three months into the mid-year Philippine elections and cases on electoral protests and frauds are still hanging and have not been settled yet. It is quite disheartening that the Commission and the Electoral Tribunal have not done anything yet to correct or give justice to the wrongs committed during the past elections. Late resolutions of cases are injustices done on those affected. This has affected the public’s faith in the electoral system. Worst, it has tarnished the credibility of the Commission and the government. At the back of the people’s faith in the administration of P-Noy, there are still doubts lurking behind, ready to pounce on the surface to mar its integrity. At the most, it has made the COMELEC’s present effort to install reforms with lukewarm response. Filipinos have just lost interest in the electoral exercise and if any, are just interested in how to make money out of it. The noise the Commission is making on reforms is not creating an impression. People are more interested in aligning with private organizations to make sure that the elections will be dignified and fraud-free. Aside from the Church guarding electorates’ rights, media groups have come forward to be counted. The Commission should have been at the forefront in ensuring that elections remain untarnished. Many incidents in the past would have been thwarted if said reforms were set earlier. Without a strong electoral system, the exercise is battered with a lot of electoral protests and cases of fraud after the elections. It says a lot about the Filipinos and is quite disheartening. When the US presidential elections were done, results were immediately known in 3 days. The winner was sworn in, with the rival conceding without chaos and noise. In the country, the row goes for months, years and it does not end. Candidates just keep on bickering forgetting the mandate of their work. Politicking continues with losing candidates disturbing the winning ones at work; the winning ones distracted at times. The Chong-Espina row over Biliran’s lone congressional district is a glaring example of how inefficient our justice system is. It is unfair for both parties; either way, both defeated or winner get affected and cannot move on immediately. The paralysis gets worst as one harbor the psychological pain that could last for many generations. Friendships and alliances are forever ruined.
Views on News
By Ricky J. Bautista trexpelunker@yahoo.com
Chinese New Year, Sex Videos and the “Epal”bill THE time runs so fast. I didn’t realize another week and has gone. Truly, you can’t sometimes see that what’s going on for past 7 days if you’re focus on something that makes you glued in writing works. Last week, over 1.3 billion people in China and millions of ethnic Chinese around the world celebrated the first day of Chinese New Year otherwise known as the Lunar New Year today – February 10, 2013. Wikipedia says this day is the most important among Chinese holidays. It is a celebration a celebration that lasts for 15 days, culminating with the Lantern Festival. Each year is associated with one of 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac. The celebration normally starts with a grand lantern parade followed by festive meals and most specially the distribution by the elders of ang pao, red envelopes with lucky money, to the younger family members and friends. The origin of Chinese New Year is itself centuries old and gains significance because of several myths and traditions. Traditionally, the festival was a time to honor deities as well as ancestors. Chinese New Year is celebrated in countries and territories with significant Chinese populations, including Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Philippines, and also in Chinatowns elsewhere. For 2013, it’s the Year of the Water Snake. Chinese men and women, in the bus, trains, restaurants and coffee shops greeted each other Gong Xi Fa Ca! That’s the traditional Chinese New Year greeting that means “wishing you prosperity” in Mandarin. Another sex video of a student goes viral Another hot issue that hit the entire week was the spread of another sex video of a female student in Cebu City. As usual, a public outpouring of sympathy and assistance was offered to the poor lady whose sex video recorded two years ago went viral in the Web.
See VIEWS page 5...
Samar Weekly Express
FEBRUARY 5 - 11, 2013
OPINION
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Hints and Traces By Fr. Roy Cimagala Reaching God THOUGH we don’t hear it nor speak about it often, the reality of fools obviously continues to take place today and, in fact, in a more rampant albeit subtle ways. I suppose it is out of good manners that we refrain from using the word. We actually now employ a lot of euphemisms to refer to the same banana. In a sense, it is good that it be that way. Refraining from using the word in our daily conversations, I imagine, would make for a cleaner and calmer environment. But neither should we forget it, since the reality, sad to say, continues to be around. In fact, the Bible speaks about fools and its variants many, many times, thus, often jarring the sensibilities of the people of today. This is one more reason why the Bible has to be handled with deliberate care, since its language belongs to a different age and to a different culture. But the Bible teaches truths for all times and defines things in their radical and ultimate dimensions. As to what a fool is and what things fools do, the Bible, especially in the books of Psalms and the Proverbs, has a lot to say. Many times, it defines a fool as anyone who does not believe in God. “The fool says in his heart, there is no God,” Psalm 14,1 says. And Proverbs 1,7 describes something about fools: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Fools despise wisdom and instruction.” And so a long series of descriptions about fools continues all the way to the New Testament. We have the famous parable of the wise and foolish virgins, for example, and passages about how a foolish man who only hears but does not act on the word of God is like a fool who builds his house on sand, without good foundation. The Book of Ecclesiastes sums up the whole thing when it
VIEWS from page 4 .... It is good to note that, this time, the government went to the side of the victim and ordered a total crackdown on CDs and videos out in the streets selling like hot cakes. Concerned authorities also coordinated to America’s Homeland Security experts to local the responsible of the upload and to end the cyber-crimes in the Philippines. If I may opine I think it high time for us to be vigilant on this scam and inhuman acts. There is an alarming trends of victims come into the open and brave themselves saying they committed “mistakes” and that they and want the suspects be punished. In case the public doesn’t aware, there’s a law saying that if anyone found “sharing, reproducing or selling” the sex video without the consent of the affected individuals can be held liable of violating Republic Act 9995 or the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009. Republic Act 9995 or the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009 penalizes anyone who “sells, shares, shows, or exhibits” the sex video or photo without the consent of the persons involved in the video or photo. Anyone find guilty of sharing or selling the sex video can be imprisoned ranging from three to seven years and/or fined at least P100,000 or a maximum of P500,000. On Anti-Epal campaign I heard the good news first. Efforts on “Anti-Epal” bill are now gaining foothold, newspaper accounts reported. At least three Senators namely Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Antonio Trillanes and Chiz Escudero had filed separately bills that prohibits all government officials their practice of affixing name, initials, logo, or image of a public official to a signage announcing a proposed, ongoing or completed public works projects, as well as installing signage announcing the maintenance, rehabilitation, construction of public works crediting individual public officer, bearing his or her image. The term “Epal” is street lingo for a credit-grabber. Waraywarays has its own version called “Garapal or Waray Awod.” In these bills, it refers to a politician who claims a government project that would not materialized had it not for his personal efforts or, worse, his personal funds. The Anti-Epal bill, if approve into a law, requires the Department of Public Works Highways, Department of Interior and Local Government, Metro Manila Development Authority and other line agencies to take down billboards and posters announcing the construction, repair or rehabilitation of public works projects bearing the faces of politicians. Now, the bad news is, these bills has seems to come in stalemate since many of the lawmakers could not agree on whether to ‘impose fines or not’ to politicians caught or found guilty plastering their names and faces on government projects
says: “Infinitus est numerus stultorum,” (Infinite is the number of fools), referring not only to the number of fools but also to their ways, since our freedom, which launches us into infinity, can be used either for good or for evil, distinguishing the wise from the fool. In spite of all these, there is always hope for as long as we are still alive and capable of changing and converting. “Where sin has abounded, grace has abounded even more,” says St. Paul (Rom 5,20). So, there’s no use simply branding people fools and then lamenting about the predicament. What we need to do is to understand why many people still are fools in the biblical sense, and try to do something about it. And the common reason for this is that they do not know how to relate themselves to God. They don’t see him, they cannot touch him, they don’t have any special feelings for him. There is obviously some ignorance and confusion involved here. While it’s true that we don’t see God, nor touch him, we cannot deny that God is everywhere, since he is the very author and the very supporter of everyone’s and everything’s existence. By merely existing, everyone and everything unavoidably reflects God’s eternal existence. Besides, to start relating to him and developing certain feelings for him is a matter of loving. As long as we love, in any way we express our love, we are at least already on the way to reaching God who is love. We just have to make sure that our loving is the right kind of loving. And that ultimately means we need to conform our love to the love of God who revealed and lived it to the full in Christ. Thus, Christ summarized all the commandments of God into the new commandment of love: “Love one another as I have loved you.” Christ makes himself the standard of our love that necessarily has two inseparable objects: love of God and love of neighbor. Loving God and thereby reaching him and being with him is actually not difficult and much less, impossible to do, since loving God can simply be a matter of loving others the way Christ loves all of us. We need to be clear about this doctrine and do everything to live it. It is very doable. We obviously need the grace of God for this, but insofar as we are concerned, we can do it. We just have to stir ourselves everyday to feel that love, making use of some plans, devices or gimmicks to put us into the system. But we can truly reach God here and now! - Hair, nails and spa services - Specialized on UV Gel Polish - Salon and spa equipments and supplies - Also available: SPA consultancy, SPA treatment demonstration and operational guidance. Contact: MILA
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WRITERS WANTED!!! If you are 18 years old and above, with passion on writing, and willing to be trained in various aspects of NEWS REPORTING. You might just be the person we’re looking for to fill-in our continuing expansion. Please submit your RESUME at SWE Editorial Office at Rizal Avenue, Catbalogan City or call 251-9342 or 251-2341 for details. Or email your intention to trexpelunker@yahoo.com (Look for Ricky or Cathy) funded with taxpayers’ money. Trillanes’ pet bill provides for the imposition of administrative charges to any officer and agencies that will refuse to and comply with the law but does not specify penalties to the violators. Santiago’s bill, on the other hand, would impose a prison term between six and 12 months and immediate perpetual disqualification of the offender. Escudero’s version calls for a one-year prison term and a fine between P100,000 and P1 million for the first offense. A recidivist politician who commits a second offense would be permanently disqualified from public office. Notably in Eastern Visayas towns and cities, we can see a lot of government officials practiced so-called “epal” act and seemingly promoted “a culture of political patronage and corruption, aside from it being pointless and highly unethical.” We can see various signage billboards sprouted like mushrooms tarpaulins, fiesta greetings, concrete walls, electric posts, sari-sari stores, public buildings, police cars, ambulances, government vehicles, barangay halls, hospitals and in every space where a sign could be hung and seen. Since public funds also went into making these billboards, it would all amount to adding insult to
See VIEWS page 7...
2013 candidates and their marital relations LIFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “… Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved usand gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God…” (Ephesians 5:1, the Holy Bible). -oooELECT ONLY THOSE WHO FEAR AND LOVE GOD: Let’s continue talking about who we should vote for in the forthcoming May 2013 elections, regardless of family names, personalities, political affiliations, or any of the other usual standards in assessing candidates running for any position. Our main thesis here is this: Filipinos should elect only the candidates who are godly---that is, those who have genuine and sincere fear and love of God. These are the candidates who will be true to the faithful discharge of their sworn duties and responsibilities, if and when they get elected, regardless of whether they come from a family of politicians, or whether they are rich and famous, or whether belong to any political party, because when they have fear and love of God in them, they will not steal, plunder nor abuse their power and position. So, how do we concretely measure whether or not a candidate has fear and love of God? Well, a candidate who knows and obeys the Word of God---the Bible---will surely have fear and love of God in his heart. A candidate who does not know, or only pretends to know, in many cases, and does not obey the Word of God, will not have fear and love of God in his heart. Rightfully then, we must look at each and every candidate and see whether in their private and official lives, they exhibit a healthy knowledge of, and obedience to, the Word of God. -oooCANDIDATES AND THEIR MARITAL RELATIONSHIPS: One word of God that is going to be a good measure whether the candidate, of the male or female specie, has fear and love of God pertains to his marital relationship with his or her spouse. In Mark 10:6-9 of the Bible, Jesus explains how a man should treat his wife, in a clear and direct manner which leaves on room for any interpretation or justification for a contrary conduct. He said: “…But at the beginning of creation God ‘made them male and female.’ ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” Now, the question is: is the candidate presenting himself or herself for election in May obedient to the foregoing admonitions of Jesus Christ, our God and Savior? Has a male candidate really left his father and mother, and got united to his wife, so that, until eternity, they are no longer two, but considered one flesh? Or is the candidate playing out the song of post-war-era singer Patty Page entitled “Changing Partners”, and very often yet? -oooCANDIDATES NOT OBEYING GOD CANNOT SERVE MAN: On the other hand, the Bible, in its Ephesians 5:21-23, has this decree for women insofar as their respective husbands are concerned: “… Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior…” In considering this admonition from the Bible in assessing a woman candidate, can it be said that the woman obeyed this principle and therefore subjected herself to her husband, as she should subject herself to the Lord? Or is the woman the ruler of her husband, such that, even in the field of politics, it is she who is running and not her husband? My point of view here is that, if a candidate cannot obey these simple rules as required by God, it would be clear that they could not even serve God, the One Being who gave them their lives, their fortune and their abilities. If these candidates cannot even serve God, from whom they owe everything, can they be expected to serve mere mortals---you and me? What do you think? 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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Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 8th Judicial Region Branch 27 (Family Court) Bulwagan ng Katarungan Catbalogan City, Samar IN RE: IN THE MATTER OF THE CANCELLATION OF THE RECORD OF BIRTH UNDER LOCAL REGISTRY No. 99-992 OF JOSHUA CARCELLAR BORJA DOLORES CARCELLAR BERIOSO Petitioner, -versusTHE REGISTRAR GENERAL NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE, MANILA and THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF CATBALOGAN CITY, SAMAR Respondents, SPC. PROC NO. 820110-15-12 x--------------x ORDER
This is a verified Petition for Cancellation of the record of birth of Joshua Carcellar Borja filed on October 15, 2012 by Petitioner Dolores Carcellar Berioso thru counsel Atty. Edilberto G. Morales, praying among others, that after due notice and hearing. Judgment be rendered ordering the Office of the Local Civil Registrar of the City of Catbalogan, Samar and the Civil Registrar General,
National Statistics Office to cancel the birth record of Guillermo Carcellar Honrado under Civil Registry No. 99992 and that the delayed registration of the fact of birth of Joshua Carcellar Borja made on May 16, 2005 should stand and exists with legal effect. The Petition sets forth the following material allegations. Petitioner is the biological mother of Joshua Carcellar Borja is of legal age, married, Filipino, with legal capacity to sue and be sued and a resident of Brgy. San Roque, Daram, Samar where she may be served with the notices, orders and other processes of the Honorable Court. Joshua Carcellar Berioso was born on May 17, 1999 at Paranas, Samar to Jesus P. Borja and Dolore: Orot Carcellar and was baptized later at the Parochial Church of Paranas, Samar. When she secured a copy of his Certificate of Live Birth at the National Statistics Office, he discovered that his fact of birth was already registered in the Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Catbalogan, Samar which contained several erroneous entries. This petition is filed in order to cancel the record of birth of Joshua Carcellar Borja to set the records straight and establish accurate data or facts as regards the identity of Joshua Carcellar Borja and to avoid any confusion in his record and not for any illegal purpose.
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LEGAL NOTICES Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance and in order the same is hereby given due course. WHEREFORE, premises considered, let the Petition be set for initial hearing on March 7, 2013 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning before this Court, at the Hall of Justice, Catbalogan City, Samar, on which date, time, and place, any and all persons opposed thereto may file their opposition citing the ground therefore. The City Civil Registrar of Catbalogan, Samar is hereby given a period of fifteen (15) days from receipt hereof or from the last date of publication of this Order, to file its opposition or comment thereto. Let a copy of this Order be published at the expense of the Petitioner, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Samar to be selected through a raffle conducted prior to the
date of hearing. Furthermore, let copies of this Order together with a copy of the Petition and its annexes, be served to the Office of the Solicitor General at 134 Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City; Office of the Provincial Prosecutor, Catbalogan City, Samar, City Civil Registrar, Catbalogan City, Samar and the Civil Registrar General, National Statistics Office, Manila for their information and comment. Finally, let a copy of this Order be furnished to the Petitioner and her counsel at their given addresses. SO ORDERED. Given this 7th day of January 2013 at Catbalogan City, Samar.
(Sgd) MANUEL F. TORREVILLAS, JR. Acting Presiding Judge SWE Jan. 22-28; 29 - Feb. 4 & 5 - 11, 2013 issue
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Gov’t urges Pinoys to diversify diet TACLOBAN CITY—The government is encouraging Filipinos to diversify their diet to include more root crops and corn as studies have shown that root crops are good sources of carbohydrates and contain dietary fiber, Vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, and iron, while corn is a good source of dietary fiber, BVitamins, folate, and phosphorus. Antonio Gerundio, the Department of Agriculture (DA) regional executive director, said the department has initiated programs to encourage the planting of high-value and indigenous crops such as cassava (kamoteng kahoy), taro (gabi), yam (ube), and sweet potato (kamote). “Root crops are good substitute staples when rice is not available. Calcium-rich kamote and cassava are essential for bone growth, iron-rich taro helps body fights infection, and tannic acid-rich yam has antibacterial, anti-enzymatic, and astringent properties,” Gerundio said. “If we consume more food staples and eat it together with rice, then our need for rice will be lessened,” Gerundio said. These staples are good substitutes for rice as they are also carbohydrates. On top of that, these staples are nutritious and promotes our health, Enriquez stressed. The DA is extending its time target of achieving its zero rice importation by 2014 instead of 2013 although the volume of rice importation this year is much less compared to last year. “We should not get more rice if we cannot eat it all. We should discourage leftovers,” Gerundio added. A study by the Food and Nutrition Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRIDOST) showed that eating root crops significantly decreases the total cholesterol levels of adults and can prevent colon tumor formation and diseases such as cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, and diabetes. FNRI-DOST also said that Folate present in corn is good for the heart because it lowers the level of homocysteine, an amino acid responsible for damaging the blood vessels and increasing blood clotting, which may lead to heart disease. Corn also contains carotenoid beta-cryptoxanthin, which aids in lowering the chances of lung disease.
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Barangay councilor in Calbayog PAO claims Aranas killed, didn’t commit suicide arrested for ‘illegal guns’ CATBALOGAN CITY – The Samar Police Provincial Office headed by its director Senior Superintendent Eusebio A. Mejos recently stormed the house of village official who is believed to be in possession of several undocumented firearms of various types. Armed with 2 court-issued search warrants Nos. SWCN-39 and 40, the police raided the house certain Mark Anthony Giray y Atiga, a resident of Purok 2, Barangay Malaga, Tinambacan District, Calbayog City. Mejos said the police raiding teams were composed of Western Samar Criminal Investigation and Detec-
tion Group, personnel of SOTG-Samar, Calbayog PNP, SWAT teams, RPSB8, SPPSC, Philippine Army and members of the SPPO based in this city. In front and in the presence of the suspect who introduced himself as Barangay Kagawad and fellow officials of Barangay Malaga namely Chairman Eugene Muñez, Kagawad Romeo Flor, Kagawad Dioscoro Ayohan Sr and Chief Tanod Felipe Maribojoc, the search was implemented. After thorough search, the police later on recovered one magazine for caliber .45 loaded with six live ammunitions for caliber .45, one caliber .45 pistol with
PhilHealth to accredit all LGUs in EV TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is aiming to accredit all municipal local governments in Eastern Visayas as collection agents in the bid to make premium payment more convenient for members. The region has 143 towns. All cities have been accredited as collection agents of the government health insurance firm. “We believe that some self-employed have no health insurance because it is really inconvenient to travel to cities to pay premiums. Employers and sponsors can also remit contributions through local government units,” said PhilHealth Regional Vice President Walter Bacareza. The members, who used to pay at designated banks and PhilHealth offices, can pay at their respective municipal treasurer’s offices if the local government unit is an accrediting collection partner. “Through LGU collection, premium payments will always be updated to ensure continuous coverage,” Bacareza said. The PhilHealth has doubled this year the incentive for local government units from 1.5% to 3% share of the total amount it will collect for PhilHealth every quarter as service fee. “This is to encourage more participation to this income generating activity for LGUs but the most important here is bringing PhilHealth closer to the people,” he added. Although, the state health insurance firm has already tied up with banks, pawnshops, and courier service providers on collection, LGU accreditation is more crucial. Bacareza said they are also making their presence stronger in malls and department stores by setting up PhilHealth Express kiosks, wherein members can make transactions outside PhilHealth offices. The first kiosk was opened last year at Robinsons Place Tacloban, providing services such as PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN), indentification cards, Member Data Record (MDR) generation, data amendment, premium collection and information kiosk for walk-in inquiries.. PhilHealth offices is also being planned to be established at Robinsons Place Tacloban, and Gaisano stores in cities of Tacloban, Ormoc and Maasin and in Sogod town. The region has 4,322,712 PhilHealth members last year, which is 102% of the region’s projected 4,227,384 population. About 60% of its total membership or 2,930,030 belong to poor households. In 2012, local government units committed to subsidize health insurance premiums of 695,095 indigents in the region, the highest in all of the 17 regions in the country.
Serial Nr 1270128 maker ARMSCOR loaded with seven live ammunitions for caliber .45, one caliber .45 pistol with Serial Nr 1445361 defaced first and last digit maker ITHACA Gun Corp, one caliber .45 pistol with Serial Nr 90811 maker colt MKIV with magazine loaded with six (6) live ammos for caliber .45, two live ammunitions for caliber .45, two pieces fired cartridge case for .45 caliber, one magazine for M16 rifle, one shotgun with Serial Nr 1066387 maker ARMSCOR model 30 loaded with five live ammunitions, three holster for .45 pistol, one magazine pouch for M16 rifle color camouflage; and two (2) units hand held radios marked ICON
with Serial Nr 40822112 and 2461669. The police asked for any documentation as to the legality of the seized firearms but the suspect to present any licenses and permits of said firearms. After his rights, the police brought the suspect to the hospital for the medical check and later on brought to the Calbayog City police station for proper disposition. A case for violation of RA 8294 (Illegal possession of Firearms) docketed under NPS Nr. VIII-10-INQ-13A-00005 dated 18 January 2013 was filed at the City Prosecutor’s Office in Calbayog City against the suspect. (Lilith Sabuco Teña)
VIEWS from page 5 ... injury to every taxpayer like us. We just hope that the “Anti-Epal” bill runs smoothly at the plenary and earned support from the civil society because if not, there could be a virtual group out there waiting to haul them over the coals comes next elections.
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The Public Attorneys Office on Monday debunked earlier findings that Dennis C. Aranas, the confessed lookout in the murder of Palawan broadcaster and environmentalist Dr. Gerry Ortega, died by hanging. The finding prompted Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to re-order the National Bureau of Investigation have another look into the death of Aranas, after she earlier dismissed the death as a suicide. Ortega was murdered on Jan. 214, 2011 by suspected hired killers. Palawan Governor Joel Reyes and his brother, Coron Mayor Mario Reyes were later implicated in the murder. Both are still at large. PAO chief Persida Acosta said that post-mortem examination conducted by the PAO’s Forensic Laboratory revealed that Aranas did not hang himself while in detention, but was killed through strangulation by at least four persons. Acosta cited the findings made by Dr. Erwin Erfe, director of PAO’s Forensic Laboratory, that Aranas died of asphyxia through “manual and ligature strangulation.” “Dennis didn’t hang himself. He was killed by at least four persons,” Acosta said, in a telephone interview. “Hindi siya (Aranas) nag-suicide.” (He did not
commit suicide). Acosta said Aranas was beaten up by “maybe four persons” that could have caused his death inside his cell at the Quezon District Jail in Lucena City on Feb. 7. “His ligature mark around the neck was not that deep so we could not really give an opinion that his death was a cause of ligature strangulation,” she added. Citing Erfe’s preliminary conclusion, she said Aranas sustained multiple physical injuries with fingernail marks on his neck and right forearm; suffered from hematoma on his lower lip, swollen left periorbital area, and contused tissue on the right shoulder area, anterior aspect lower third of both forelegs and other parts of the body. The forensic examination also showed that Aranas died in a “lying position.” The PAO chief said that they will submit their findings to the department of Justice. Erfe conducted the post mortem examination at Funeraria Popular, San Pablo City, Laguna on February 10, 2013. Chief Supt. Diony Mamaril, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology officer in charge, earlier cited an initial report of an autopsy conducted by
NBI medico-legal officer Antonio Vertido that Aranas’ died of asphyxia by hanging. Acosta said she ordered the post-mortem examination after the family and relatives of Aranas went to PAO for help after noting that the witness’ body had several contusions. Acosta said the wife and relatives of Aranas also appealed to Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas to conduct a thorough investigation on the circumstances surrounding the death of the witness. Earlier, de Lima assured the public that the government’s case against the suspects in the Ortega case remained strong despite the death of Aranas inside his cell at the Quezon provincial jail on Tuesday last week. De Lima admitted that Aranas was no longer covered by the witness protection program (WPP) of the Department of Justice at the time of his death. “He was provisionally admitted to the program, but upon evaluation, he did not qualify for regular admission because there was a certification of nonmateriality by the handling prosecutors,” said De Lima. “ This means that the testimony of Aranas “was not material.”
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AKSYON NA, AGA NA! PNRC ONE MILLION RUN. Troopers from the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army joined and supports the Red Cross Million Volunteers Run held last February 10, 2013 at Catbalogan City Complex. The run sponsored by the Red Cross was held simultaneously nationwide. (DPAO Photos)
PNRC sponsors ‘fun run’ in Catbalogan
CATBALOGAN CITY -- The Philippine National Red Cross Samar Provincial Chapter spearheaded the simultaneous nationwide “One Million Volunteer Run 2” on Sunday, February 10, 2013 in this city. Completing its extensive network of one million volunteers, the fun run aims to “awaken the volunteer spirit of the country, and to
save lives” as the country has been continuously battered by natural disasters, particularly typhoons and floods. It is reported that natural calamities has surged 50% in the Philippines, making it as the world’s most disaster-hit country in 2011, PNRC earlier declared. “The formula to alleviate human suffering in this horrifying buffet of disasters is the mobilization of millions
of Red Cross volunteers supported by logistics and robust technological capabilities,” the PNRC announced on its official website. “We want to have Red Cross first aiders, blood donors, and health and welfare volunteers in every home, school, workplace, and community in every corner of the Philippines.” The agency has also asked for partners in their project
to empower those who are affected by the devastating effects of disasters in the country. The first Million Volunteer Run happened last December 2011. In Catbalogan, troopers of the 8th Infantry Division based in Barangay Maulong joined and supports the ‘fun run.’ Other individuals, such as few government workers and civilians also participated in the run. (Ricky Bautista)
Valentines Feature:
Couples that travel together, stays longer Couples who travel together, stay together. That’s the conclusion of a survey commissioned by the US Travel Association in advance of Valentine’s Day, which found that couples who travel together alone -- sans kids -- reported higher satisfaction in their relationships. In a telephone poll of 1,100 adults, 83 percent of respondents who said they travel together as a couple also reported that the romance is alive and kicking in their relationship. More than three-quarters of respondents who travel as a couple also reported having a good sex life. For couples who don’t travel together, that figure dipped to 63 percent. While these results may be true on paper, traveling as a couple has also been viewed as the ultimate test of a relationship -- particularly the maiden voyage. Psychologist and relationship expert Shauna Springer, for instance, pleads that traveling solo and taking a break for yourself can also be good for your relationship, increasing marital satisfaction in an article published in Psychology Today. Meanwhile, Gadling.com offers tips on how to survive intact a vacation with your significant other such as planning a holiday that’s in direct proportion to the time you’ve been together as a
couple. For instance, only been together a month or two? Don’t get too ambitious and avoid getaways that are any longer than a weekend jaunt. Other tips include keeping a sense of humor, planning together, and spending time apart during the trip.
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What Wikipedia say about Valentines Day? Saint Valentine’s Day, commonly known as Valentine’s Day, or the Feast of Saint Valentine, is observed on February 14 each year. It is celebrated in many countries around the world, although it remains a working day in most lovers. St. Valentine’s Day began as a liturgical celebration of one or more early Christian saints named Valentinus. Valentine’s Day symbols that are used today include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid.
Travel experts at Budget Travel also suggest avoiding jampacked itineraries which can be stressful, and likewise going solo and regrouping afterwards to share your experiences together. (From the wires)