SWE March 5 - 11, 2013

Samar Weekly

EXPRESS Chronicling Events in Samar Island Since 2002

The Exponent of Samar’s Progress

VOL. 10, NO. 31 MARCH 5 - 11, 2013

CATBALOGAN CITY

8 PAGES

P4.7-M new MPS to rise in Paranas

By RICKY J. BAUTISTA, News & Features

PARANAS, Samar – A P4.7 million worth new police building is expected to raise in this locality with high expectation from the local residents that peace and order situation will soon be stable.

In a ground breaking ceremony on Wednesday, both Regional Police Director Chief Superintendent Elmer Soria and Paranas Mayor Felix Babalcon, Jr. announced the construction of a new police 2-storey building with roof deck located on a 600-square meter lot donated by the municipal government along the national highway in Barangay Zone 4.

Paranas is a second class town situated more or less 30 kilometers south from Catbalogan City, the province’s premier capital, with a population of 29,327 people according to the 2010 census.

Supt. Soria said the building costs P4.7 million of which

See MPS page 6...

Election in Samar is all in the family

By Vicente Alejandro, VERA Files

THE POLITICAL family currently in power in Samar is digging its heels into the province by fielding all its members as candidates, although they are facing a challenge from other emerging dynasties.

All four children of re-electionist Representative Milagrosa T. Tan, as well as her brother-in-law, are running for various positions in the province, its two cities and two congressional districts.

See ELECTION page 7...

INDUCTION OF OFFICERS: Elected officers of the Catbalogan Motorized Tricycle Operator and Driver Multi-Purpose Cooperative took their oath before City councilor Stephany Uy during their recent induction party in Catbalogan City. (Photo courtesy of Hon. Step Uy Tan).

Women’s month celebrated in Paranas town

By Avha H. Ebalde CATBALOGAN CITY -- Human Trafficking and the Magna Carta for Women highlights this year’s Women’s Month celebration in Paranas town, some 30 kilometers south from this city.

Rhoda Ercilla of Plan Philippines said the province continue to be a source of women and children trafficked to Metro Manila and elsewhere wherein later on found abused and exploited.

Local study revealed that in most cases, poor people

See WOMEN page 2...

NPA vs Army in Palapag: FAs, explosives seized

ESTRADAS FOR MINDANAO. Father (Former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada ) and son (leading Senatorial Candidate JV Ejercito Estrada) wave to the crowd as the 3-day UNA Northern Mindanao campaign comes to a close in Iligan City. UNA Senatorial Candidate JV Ejercito Estrada continues to be the leading senatorial candidate of United Nationalist Alliance (UNA). In the latest Pulso ng Pilipino Survey, Senatoriable JV Ejercito Estrada is among the top 5 leading senatorial candidate for May 2013 elections. (PR)

ARMY troops belong to the 34th Infantry Battalion and 81st Reconnaissance Company of the 8th Infantry Division on Tuesday encountered with the New People’s Army rebels in the jungles of Palapag, Northern Samar.

The government troops, after the 30-minute firefight, seized the whole area believed to be the camp of the NPA with one improvised hut and 10 makeshift bunkers made of laminated sacks.

The fleeing rebels, estimated to be numbering 25 fully armed fighters, left at the scene two M-16 rifles, two landmines, one rifle grenade, magazines/ammunitions for M-16 rifles and subversive documents.

See NPA page 2...

The firearms and explosives seized by the military after the duel

PUPUA BEACH RESORT

Welcome to:

Catbalogan City Home Away from Home!

For reservation, contact: 0918.9265.791 (Ben)

Much of the Development of Samar is found in leaders & people who care.

Samar Weekly Express

2

THE REGION

MARCH 5 - 11, 2013

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Retrieval operations in Kananga landslide stop 14 deaths recorded during previous retrieval

TACLOBAN CITY - The retrieval operation conducted inside the Energy Development Corp. (EDC) geothermal complex in the town of Kananga in Leyte was terminated Thursday morning.

This after the last dead body, identified as Jorden Salcedo of Brgy. Domonar, Ormoc City, was retrieved by rescue group at 4:45 a.m. on Thursday.

With the recovery of Salcedo, the landslide incident at Upper Mahiao, Brgy. Lim-ao, 10 kms away from town proper of Kananga, had a death toll of 14 workers.

The casualties were among the 45 individuals who were working of a concrete shelter to protect steam pipes of the EDC from the cascading rocks from the mountain last March 1.

About 20,000 cubic meters of debris cascaded from the mountain entombed the 14 workers with a length of 60 meters and an elevation of about 2 meters.

Kananga Mayor Elmer Codilla said that aside from Salcedo, the other last dead body recovered by the rescue group was that of Salvador Yabana.

His body was recovered last Wednesday at 5:45 p.m. He was a resident of Brgy. Rizal, Kananga.

Codilla said that with the recovery of the two dead bodies of Yabana and Salcedo, the retrieval operation was officially ended.

A Mass was also held at the site and at their office in Makati, EDC spokesperson Dave Devilles said.

“We are (relieved) that all of the workers earlier declared as missing are now accounted for and been retrieved,” Codilla said.

Codilla said that clearing operation of landslide debris is now ongoing to facilitate repair of damaged structures in pad 403, Sitio Upper Mahiao, Barangay Lim-ao.

“It took one week to complete the retrieval operation due to bad weather, fear of another landslide, and rescuers have to be extra careful in searching for buried corpses,” he said.

The remains of Salcedo and Yabana were brought to the Kananga Hospital where their relatives were able to identify them.

The two are expected to be buried immediately considering that they were in the state of decomposition already when recovered by the rescue groups composed of the EDC, city government of Ormoc rescue groups as well by members of the 19th Infantry Battalion led by Colonel Alejandro Nacnac and local police.

Devilles said they are also relieved now that all the missing persons have been recovered.

“Now we can give them proper burial,” Devilles said.

Also killed during the landslide incident were Joel Milay, Bonifacio Polinio, Billy Abella, Edgardo Cabarsi, Sr., Etchield de la Austria, Abelardo Permangel, Marlon Taburanza, Romeo Yasar, Danilo Mabute, Salvador Lascañas, Uldarico Taburanza and Alfred Arabis.

The EDC had shouldered the burial expenses of the 14 workers who perished during the landslide as they promised to provide assistance to the families of the victims as well as possible work opportunity.

The workers were hired by the JE Arradaza, which was subcontracted by the First Balfour of the EDC. (Joey Gabieta and Sarwell Meniano)

NPA from page 1 ...

“The encounter is a result of a successful ‘Bayanihan’ effort of the local officials and local populace through the Bayanihan teams in Palapag town,” said Lt. Col. Rodrigo M. Illustrisimo, Commanding Officer of 34th Infantry Battalion.

Meanwhile, Major General Gerardo Layug, 8ID commander said the support and assistance of given to them by the local leaders and its populace is a clear manifestation that the ‘Bayanihan’ spirit manifests in the communities.

“We will continue securing the communities against rebel influence and other armed threats, and we will be in close coordination with the local leaders and other stakeholders in ensuring peace in every community in the region,” Layug added.

(Ricky Bautista)

WOMEN from page 1 ...

Chief Supt. Elmer R. Soria, Regional Police Director of PRO8, Paranas town officials and stakeholders during the groundbreaking of the new Municipal Police Station on Wednesday. (Photo below) shows a Catholic priest blesses the ground.

CHO warns public versus diseases this summer

TACLOBAN CITY – City Health Officer Dr. Jaime Opinion encouraged the public to be cautious of their health specially that the summer season is approaching.

Opinion said that their office is now monitoring the different diseases that normally occur during summer.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Administration (Pagasa), the summer season will be in the middle of the March.

Some of these diseases are heat strokes and sore eyes.

“The past few years, we have monitored the same diseases occurring every summer,” Opinion said.

The city health officer further said that people who will experience heat stroke have to immediately report to their relatives about what they feel in order to prevent any possible worsen effect of the said disease.

“If we are experiencing heat stroke inside or outside our house, immediately go to an open area and report to your relatives about what you feel,” said he.

Aside from this, people who will be affected by sore eyes have to limit their exposure to a mass of people because this is viral and can easily be transmitted from one person to another.

“Those who will be affected by sore eyes have to avoid going to the places where there are lots of people,” the official said.

Sore eyes peak within 3-4 days and last up to 14 days includes: redness of the eyes, discomfort, burning, gritty sensation, photophobia or sensitivity to light, pain, difficulty opening eyes after sleeping, eyelids stuck together after sleeping, water-like discharge and soreness.

Meanwhile, Opinion disclosed that in order to avoid these diseases people have BOARD MEETING IN CALBAYOG. SWE Editor and board director of the Samar to boost their immune system by having Island Press Club (SIPC) Ricky Bautista, along with other members of the club listens healthy diets, exercise and proper hygiene. to SIPC prexy Rommel Rutor (center), discussing the projects being undertaken by the (Robert Francisco) club to include the election fora, monitoring of Bantay-Bayanihan initiated by the AFP.

has been always the victim of human trafficking because of the “promising” things being offered to them by the illegal recruiters.

In the forum, some 600 participants interacted with each other including staffs from the social welfare office, health workers, and local government employees among other women in the locality The speaker said a victim of human trafficking may experience sexual exploitation, forced labor or services, slavery or practices similar to slavery, and worst, removal of organs.

Myra M. Tambor of Katungod han Samarena Foundation (KSFI) gave some insights on the existing law – the Republic Act 9710 or Magna Carta of Women (MCW).

Tambor said that MCW is a comprehensive women’s rights law that seeks to eliminate discrimination through the recognition, protection, fulfillment and promotion of the rights of Filipino women, especially those belonging in the marginalized sectors of the society.

This year’s Women’s Month theme “Kababaihan gabay sa tuwid na landas” emphasized the need to accelerate participation in governance and enhance gender perspective in upholding good governance.

Tambor said that since this is according to the Daang Matuwid of President Benigno Aquino, the women’s group will push for the increased number of women in third level positions in the government with a fifty-fifty (50-50) gender balance and the participation/composition of women in all levels of development planning and program implementation.

Provisions of MCW also includes non-discrimination in employment in the field of military, police and other similar services that include according the same promotional privileges and opportunities as their men counterpart, including pay increases, additional benefits, and awards, based on competency and quality of performance.

She stressed that MCW includes the provision for equal access and elimination of discrimination in education, scholarships, and training, Non-discriminatory and non-derogatory portrayal of women in media and film to raise the consciousness of the general public in recognizing the dignity of women and the role and contribution of women in family, community, and the society through the strategic use of mass media. (Avha H. Ebalde)

PDEA warned: Beware of ‘fake agents’

THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) reiterates its warning to the public of unscrupulous individuals posing as PDEA agents.

PDEA Director General Undersecretary Arturo G. Cacdac, Jr. reiterated the public advisory following the recent arrest of a police officer gone absent without leave (AWOL) and three others after engaging in a shootout and car chase with members of the PNP Highway Patrol Group (HPG).

The policeman, identified as Police Officer 1 Khomenie Dacula, together with three companions, was flagged down

by HPG operatives in Parañaque City, after they were acting suspiciously on board their vehicle.

A brief gun battle ensued resulting in the death of one suspect and the wounding of another. Confiscated from the suspects were seven fabricated PDEA green shirts and three firearms.

Cacdac said that this tactic of impersonating people with authority for evil purposes is not new. “The fact that PDEA uniforms were seized from these suspects, including a police officer, indicate that the uniforms will be used for illegal activities,” he said.

The PDEA chief emphasized that unauthorized wearing of PDEA uniforms, or insignia, is punishable under the Revised Penal Code. In addition, he encourages the public to be watchful and verify people masquerading as PDEA Agents.

Samar Weekly Express

MARCH 5 - 11, 2013

NEWS

3 Notorious robbery gang leader arrested in Manila

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Chief Supt. Elmer R. Soria, Regional Police Director of PRO8, on Tuesday reminded the 75 new police recruits to always uphold the human rights in their police functions as he reiterated that PRO8 is home of the citizen-friendly policemen. (Lilith S. Tena)

Thieves victimizing vendors finally arrested

CATBALOGAN CITY -- The police also arrested a man believed to be responsible in thievery incidents victimizing fresh fish dealers in Catbalogan City.

The suspect as one Rodolfo Zamora y Ampatin, also known as Odek, 40, single, “baggage carrier” and a resident of Purok 2, Brgy. Guindapunan, Catbalogan City.

Lately, stall owners at Pier I site have been complaining about losing their items to thieves. Fishermen from coastal and island villages who catch fish and other marine products at Maqueda Bay, Samar’s premier fishing area, usually supply their products to fresh fish dealers who have stalls along Pier I site in Catbalogan City also fell victims by the suspect and his gangs.

The police arrested Samora by virtue of an arrest warrant for Robbery issued by Judge Sibanah E. Usman of Regional Trial Court Branch 28, Catbalogan City docketed under criminal case number 4775.

Judge Usman recommended a bailbond of P40,000.00 for Zamora’s temporary liberty.

Zamora, his younger brother Romulo, and one Greg Metre allegedly ransacked a stall in said area and carted away 2

styrofoams of fresh prawns or lukon and ot h e r it e ms some months back.

Samora will join his brothers, Romulo and Metre, who were earlier arrested, at the Catbalogan police station lock-up cell. (Ricky J. Bautista)

75 rookie cops told to uphold human rights

By LILITH S. TENA Catbalogan city -- The 75 rookie policemen who took their oath of office on Tuesday were instructed to uphold human rights at all times especially when enforcing the law.

“As you enter the early stage of your police career, develop a good character which will be your foundation. You have to start with a right indoctrination of the police service which is critical on how you will perform your job. Service first before self-interest,” said Chief Superintendent Elmer Soria, Regional Director of the Police Regional Office 8.

Supt. Soria said the PNP has been human rights-sensitive organization, starting off with the tie-up of the PNP and the Commission on Human Rights that led to the creation of the PNP Human Rights Affairs Office and establishment of Human Rights Desks in all police stations.

“Always keep in mind the people’s rights while enforcing the law without fear or favor, reminding you that PRO8 is the home of the citizen-friendly policemen. Always be a protector of human rights,” he added.

The 75 new cops composed of 65 males and 10 females, were part of the supplemental quota for the calendar year 2012 second semester Police Officer I (POI) recruitment program.

A total of 236 applicants filed their applications at the

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start of the recruitment period wherein 87 passed the meticulous screening and selection processes of Neuro-Psychiatric/ Psychological Examination; Complete Physical, Medical and Dental Examination; Physical Agility Test; Drug Test; Complete Background Investigation; and Final Committee Interview.

The remaining 12 qualified applicants were re-aligned to PRO7.

The newly-appointed POIs will receive a basic monthly salary of P14, 834.00 aside from allowances and other non-cash benefits.

After the ceremony, the new PNP recruits were turnedover to the Philippine Public Safety College – Regional Training School 8 (PPSC-RTS8) to undergo the mandatory Public Safety Field Training Program (PSFTP) to prepare them for the basic work and function of the police. They will mandatorily undergo the PNP SCOUT and other trainings intended for their greater responsibilities as law enforcers and as public servants.

Meanwhile, official such as PSSupt. Edgar U. Basbas ADRDA/ Chairman RSC, PSSupt. Nilo D. Donaire, Chief BPHRDD Head Secretariat RSC, PSupt. Joker T. Cuanso, Regional Training Director RTS 8, family and relatives of the new police recruits graced the occassion. (With reports from Insp. Romuel Nacar)

CATBALOGAN CITY -- A police tracker from Samar finally arrested on Monday a notorious robbery gang leader responsible for series of hold-up and robbery incidents in Samar Maharlika highways and in Metro Manila in the previous months.

The Special Operations Task Group – Samar (SOTG-Samar) Tracker Team arrested Jose Arvin Baculanlan, 31, a native of Basey, Samar during a manhunt operation at the corner 14th Avenue and Boni Serrano St., Cubao, Quezon City.

Baculanlan is now detained at Quezon City Police District for proper disposition.

Police Chief Inspector Marben Ordonia , team leader of the arresting team said the suspect is the alleged leader of the Baculanlan robbery gang and listed as the second most wanted person in Samar province. The Baculanlan gang was linked to a series of highway heists in Samar in the past years Baculanlan was arrested on the strength of arrest warrants issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 30 Judge Janet Cabalona and Judge Tarcelo Sabarre of same RTC for 2 counts of robbery and violation of Article 294 of the Revised Penal Code (robbery with violence or intimidation of person) with recommended bail bond of P100, 000.00 for each case.

“With his arrest, all the robberies his group had carried out are deemed solved and his gang considered neutralized,” said Police Chief Superintendent Elmer Soria, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 8.

Earlier, members of Baculanlan robbery gang fell one by one to the hands of the police while others had lied low, the police said adding that the police continuously tracking their whereabouts.

(Ricky J. Bautista with Insp. Romuel Nacar)

Police conducts regular radio, TV programs CATBALOGAN CITY -- To update the Samarnon and its constituents on the conduct of the Secured and Fair Election (SAFE) 2013 in the province of Samar, the Samar Police Provincial Office headed by its active director Superintendent Eusebio Adamero Mejos, announced that the PNP has regular “PNP Hour” that can a good source of police update and electionrelated concerns and issues.

Supt. Mejos said that his men, trained to handle issues regarding police matters, has a regular radio guestings in the programs of DYMS Action Radyo Catbalogan City and DYOG Radyo ng Bayan, Calbayog City.

TV Coverage program thru FIL Products Calbayog City and Leopards TV Network Catbalogan City was also being made public.

In line with this, Mejos invites everyone to interact and share valuable informations in said radio programs every Tuesday 11-12 noon in DYMA Catbalogan & every Thursday 8-9am in DYOG Calbayog City. (Lilith S. Tena)

BFP taps city tanods CATBALOGAN CITY -- To provide immediate response during fires, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) will tap barangay tanods in the city proper.

These tanods, which will compose the Barangay Integrated Defense Action (BIDA) will be trained on fire fighting and rescue, says Catbalogan City Fire Inspector Agustin Ballo.

BIDA is composed of several barangay tanods devoted to help the local fire station in providing immediate response in case of fires, disaster and other calamities.

Republic Act RA 9514 provides that the BFP may enter into external party agreements for the conduct of training, education and evaluation of fire volunteers, practitioners and fire volunteer organizations, which shall be under the full control and supervision of the BFP. Ballo added that during firefighting operations, BIDA will be under the direct operational control of the fire ground commanders of the fire station. The BIDA training is being conducted as the city marks Fire Prevention Month this March.

Meanwhile, other activities of BFP include continuous information dissemination, conduct of fire safety inspection, lectures and fire drills in different commercial, private and government establishments, schools, and dormitories.

There are 10 fire stations in Samar located in Catbalogan, Calbayog, Paranas, Gandara, Sta. Margarita, Basey, Pagsanghan, Pinabacdao, Marabut and Villareal of which the Catbalogan City Fire Station has the biggest cluster. It covers the islands of Zumaraga, Daram, Talalora, and the municipality of Tarangnan and Jiabong.

Second is Calbayog with cluster area that covers Almagro, Sto. Nino, and Tagapul-an. Ballo said that he can guarantee that Catbalogan City will be protected from fire through the enforcement of fire protection standards as in provision of fire exits, provision of fire extinguishers in dormitories, and even the holding of fire drills in the different establishments. (Avha Ebalde)

OPINION Samar Weekly Express

DALMACIO C. GRAFIL Publisher

MARCH 5 - 11, 2013

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RICKY J. BAUTISTA Editor-in-Chief ALMA GRAFIL Bus. Manager CATHERINE GERADILA Office-in-Charge

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.

EDITORIAL Graduation woes The admonition from Department of Education officials is still in effect for schools to refrain from collecting exorbitant graduation fees from students as it would aggravate the poor economic situation of most families.

The first time this announcement came, parents and guardians shouldering the expenses of students readily greeted it with much gratefulness and commendation. In the face of today’s high cost of living worsened by low salaries and wages, such development to them is indeed much welcomed and of great help.

is a member of the

But as the graduation rites approach, it seems that this DepEd admonition is just falling on deaf ears. Some class advisers particularly of graduating classes tend to ignore it as they are still imposing financial obligations like contributions upon graduating students and their parents, labeled though they are by different names.

PHILIPPINE PRESS INSTITUTE

These monetary collections could be for stage decorations, props for stage presentations, honorarium for choreographers, snacks for visitors, etc. But whatever these collections are for, they still yield the same effect—burden the pockets of parents or drive them to loan sharks who make their lives more miserable.

Samar Weekly Express

The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

SAMAR ISLAND PRESS CLUB, Inc. The only SEC registered media organization operating in the three provinces of Samar A sister publication of the

Leyte - Samar Daily Express (Tacloban City) and Eastern Samar Bulletin (Borongan City)

Class advisers ought not to be bearing such financial burdens as well, hence their resort to collect them from students.

But such responsibility need not be passed on to the parents, too.

Surely, the best thing to do here is to do away with lavish ceremonies requiring huge budgets. Simple ceremonies may do. Financial burdens could be avoided to spare anyone the trouble of having to go poorer.

Talk back with our issues of the week. Send us your feedback and your own commentary in our

Letter To Editor Section.

Be heard and let us know your say!

Views on News

By Ricky J. Bautista trexpelunker@yahoo.com

Not just a “room nurse” THIS is not just a plain case of ignorance. This may be a test case that proves there are still people who are clueless about the real work of a Filipino nurse. Our nurses working overseas, away from their family and beloved land are like our DH and OFWs who sacrifices everything to earn a decent income for their family.

Because of the incompetence of our government system to provide employment jobs and decent source of income, many of our countrymen were forced to work miles away from home. They are what we called the “unsung heroes” “Bayani” or “Martyr” because of their remittances, they share a lot of help to our economy.

Calling them inappropriate description can surely hurt them and demoralize them. Our nurses, are one of those who proudly represents the Philippines in the field of Medicines. As far as I know, many foreign celebrities, and even US president Barrack Obama, hailed our OFWs especially our nurses because of their excellence showed to people not known to them but because of their dedication, and because, they have the blood of a true ‘Pinoy.’

Contrary to what other calls them, branding them on Philippine TV as an ordinary “room nurse,” is a clear manifestation that many of us disregard the real flight of our Filipino nurses, who without looking back for any compensation or recognition, helped saving this nation.

They, in no doubts, gained the respect of other nations with their compassion, intelligence, and competence. And sadly, one of our own belittled them and publicly displayed their wrongful outlook that nursing profession belongs to “second class citizens”.

In the February 23 episode of GMA News TV’s “Pagsubok ng mga Kandidato” hosted by noted economist and broadcaster Winnie Monsod, one comment has ignited a firestorm of angry retorts from the nursing community. When Cynthia Villar, a senatorial candidate running under the banner of Team PNoy, failed to give substantive remarks to a question, that comment went viral.

The show supposedly aimed to provide the viewers with

See VON page 5...

Samar Weekly Express

MARCH 5 - 11, 2013

OPINION

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Hints and Traces

By Fr. Roy Cimagala Caring for our doctrinal formation

IF we believe in God, then we have to believe in Christ, the son of God who became man to be our redeemer. We also have to believe in his teachings that are now entrusted to the Church and authoritatively taught to us through its doctrine.

We need to see this vital connection between God and the doctrine that we need to study and meditate on. Hopefully, we assimilate this doctrine such that it becomes flesh of our flesh.

Our usual problem is that we tend to disconnect the two, raising all sorts of reasons why such vital link between God and the doctrine cannot be possible, if not always, then from time to time.

There’s obviously some point to why the doctrine cannot fully capture God and his teachings. And that’s because of the human elements involved in the doctrine. But in spite of that, we need to realize that in its substance and in its core, the doctrine is actually divine.

We just have to know how to distinguish between its divine character and its human elements that would unavoidably include some limitations. This is actually our human condition.

Truth is God always intervenes in our life and makes use of our humanity to come and be with us. We should not waste time making a big fuss about the human limitations that accompany this abiding divine intervention.

That’s why God through Christ in the Spirit has endowed the Church with the proper power and authority to teach his doctrine integrally and infallibly, much like we as a nation entrust our government with certain power to govern us in spite of the many limitations in the men running the government.

Except that in the case of God in relation to the Church, the act of empowering goes far more radically than what takes place in our empowering of our government to rule over us.

VON from page 5 ... insights on how the candidates respond to every issue raised and how well they can resolve it by presenting solutions and possible answer to the questions thrown to them.

It is during this TV show that candidates will be weigh based on the reflection of their true feelings. Without the aid of their ghost writers and spin doctors, they had to think of a good answer in a very thin and limited time of one-minute. They have to give “politically-correct” answer to satisfy the voters.

Monsod’s question was: “How can you reconcile your desire to help the poor at pagpanig ninyo sa may-ari ng nursing schools na gusto sanang ipasara ng Technical Nursing Committee at ng CHED?” The question was in reference to Villar’s role as then Chairperson of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, to intercede between the nursing schools and CHED (Commission on Higher Education) which had ordered the closure of about 20 substandard nursing schools.

As a result, none of the schools were closed and several officials of CHED resigned from office a week later.

Villar’s answer: “Hindi naman kailangan ang nurse ay matapos ng BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) kasi itong mga nurse ay gusto lang nila maging room nurse, o sa Amerika o in other countries, e ano lang sila, young parang mag-aalaga.

Hindi naman sila kailangan ganoon kagaling” Villar’s response to the controversy was a mumbo-jumbo of excuses about time restriction. “The 30-second limit for me to answer the question posed on the news program was too short to give the complete details surrounding the issue. I hope that this statement will clarify the issue. I am sorry if it has created confusion. Thank you.”

Villar explained that she was misunderstood but still could not find any answer or explain her concept of a “room nurse.”

And I wonder how she faced her own daughter, a nurse herself, and told her that she was “just a room nurse” For your information Mrs. Villar, the Filipino nurses abroad are not mere hand-maidens to the physicians. They have proven long time ago that they were already recognized in the field of medicine. They helped train many medical residents, and sometimes, intervened so that patients were not harmed by wrong medical orders.

Filipino nurses abroad had risen as shining examples of this noble profession, even as nursing heroes. In his last State of the Union address, President Obama singled out Menchu Sanchez, a Filipina nurse who initiated the safe transfer of sick babies out of a flooded hospital during the height of the hurricane.

When asked what can Mrs. Villar do to make up for this mess? The nursing community counts the ways by which Mrs. Villar can truly help the ‘Pinoy nurse’ and not just a lip service.

The former involves God, the latter simply us through some consensus. The former involves the entire scope of our life, especially its spiritual and supernatural end, while the latter simply involves the temporal dimension of our life.

This clarification is important because we need to cultivate the appropriate attitude toward the doctrine of the Church. In the gospel of St. Matthew, Christ clearly said: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place.” (5,17-18).

Then he continued, “Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.” (5,19).

These words need to be studied and understood well, so that we can see the vital connection between what Christ said directly about the “law and the prophets,” and the doctrine that the Church, founded and properly empowered by Christ, now teaches us.

We need to consider the Church doctrine as the true and most precious doctrine that can bring us to our ultimate joy and end.

It is not just a man-made doctrine that can give us some benefits and advantages, some social or economic progress, but not our ultimate supernatural end.

We also need to see the Church doctrine as the proper spirit that should animate any human doctrine we may make for some practical purpose we may have in the different aspects of our life—personal, family, professional, social, political, etc.

Thus, it is essential that we learn to know the Church doctrine or the doctrine of our faith such that this doctrine becomes the moving spirit behind our every thought, word and deed, behind our every plan and project, big or small, ordinary or extraordinary.

There is need for us to know how to relate the doctrine of our faith to our daily affairs and to our very serious and big projects and plans, and vice versa. At the moment, this expertise is hardly known, its need hardly felt.

This is the challenge we are facing today as we tackle the increasingly rapid, complex and complicated developments. Let’s hope that we can overcome whatever biases we have that hinder the appreciation of our basic need for Church doctrine in our human affairs.

Need a Job? 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) I have compiled the following demands and requests from our ‘injured’ nurses listed in their blog posts and other online mediums.

1. Elevate the standards of local nursing schools by making them accountable for higher nursing licensure passing rates. Do not side with nursing school owners who provide substandard training. An educated nurse is a safe nurse.

2. Enact laws to prevent the abuse of the nurses who pay to be “volunteers”. Absurd. This is not right at all.

3. Provide scholarships to deserving nursing students. Not just for BSNs, but also Masters and doctorate programs.

4. Improve the working conditions for nurses in local hospitals by providing responsible representation for nurses’ rights.

5. Investigate unscrupulous nurse recruiters with their exorbitant fees. Streamline the hiring process for overseas work.

6. Sponsor a nurse to provide informed and expert consultation in important health service committees.

7. Sponsor a bill to increase the base pay for nurses, as they deserve.

And lastly, Mrs. Villar, you must really understand how it is to be a nurse. Volunteer to shadow the nurses in different fields as they continue to persevere in their chosen profession despite the odds stacked against them.

Nurses are much more than a just a room nurse. They are Filipino nurse, we should be proud of them. We should be proud to all Pinoys working as DH, and other decent jobs outside the country. They share a lot to help their families and our government as well.

And that, we ALL must understand them. Not only her, but all of us must truly get it right, by heart. Intiyendes?

This is all for now folks!

Have a safe weekends, everyone!

5

Tagle: also a “bird of prey from far-off land” LIFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “… From the east I summon a bird of prey; from a far-off land, a man to fulfill my purpose. What I have said, that I will bring about; what I have planned, that I will do...” (Isaiah 46:11, the Holy Bible).

-oooINCREASED PREAMATURE DEATH FROM PROCESSED MEATS: Yahoo News, in an article written by Beth Greenfield, is saying that bacon, sausage and hotdogs, and other processed meats as well, can raise the risk of premature death by 44%. Greenfield wrote: “… a new study might make it easier.

It found that consuming high amounts of the breakfast favorite and other processed meats can raise your risk of premature death by 44 percent.

“Of the 26,000-plus who died during those years, the ones who ate the most processed meats—5.5 ounces or more every day of bacon (so, five strips), sausage, hotdogs, salami, ham and the like—were 44 percent more likely to have died than those who ate little or none. In other terms, the meats were to blame in about 1 in 30 deaths, the main causes of which were cancer and heart disease…”

To those who are interested to read this story for themselves, here is the link: http://m.yahoo.com/w/ygofrontpage/ lp/story/us/3105305/coke.bp?ref_w=frontdoors&.iew=today&. intl=US&.lang=en.

-oooWILL TAGLE BE ELECTED POPE? I am having two conflicting inspirations on whether or not Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle will be elected the new Pope of the Roman Catholic Church following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. The first inspiration is saying that Tagle will not be elected, considering his very young age. Older Catholic Cardinals may decide to give their kind, who are more advanced in age, the opportunity to become the Church’s leader, since very little time is left to them.

The second inspiration I am having is saying, however, that, precisely, there is a need to appoint a young Pope, like Tagle, who will have more time to push Catholics the world over to newer and fresher directions in strengthening their faith, even as many of them are now transferring en masse to other religious groups because they are disappointed with many of its teachings, its practices, and abuses.

Which of these two inspirations is weighing more heavily on me? The second inspiration does, simply because, from my understanding, events and Catholic leaders---particularly Pope Benedict XVI---conspired and confabulated to push Tagle to become a Pope. It should be remembered by many Catholics that Tagle was personally chosen by Benedict to become a Cardinal, and this was not the result of mere whim and caprice. Tagle was virtually tutored by Benedict for a long time.

-oooTAGLE: ALSO A BIRD OF PREY FROM AFAR: Then, Tagle is the head of the biggest Catholic nation in the whole of Asia. There is a very big responsibility on the part of the Church to see to it that Filipino Catholics would remain true to their faith, lest its members would become wayward and be enticed by rival religious groups---like what is rapidly happening now in almost all of the Philippines.

I can see that having a Filipino Pope would work wonders towards strengthening the largely waning faith of many Catholics in the country. If Tagle is elected Pope, that would greatly slow down the exodus of Catholics towards other religions, and may revive a greater interest in Catholicism among Filipinos.

If Tagle becomes Pope, that would cement further the prophesy of the prophet Isaiah, found in the Bible’s Isaiah 46:11, that “(f)rom the east I summon a bird of prey; from a far-off land, a man to fulfill my purpose. What I have said, that I will bring about; what I have planned, that I will do.” Many from far-off lands have already been called, but I am convinced Tagle is also one of them, at least among Catholics.

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.

Samar Weekly Express

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Republic of the Philippines 8th Judicial Region OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT Bulwagan Ng Katarungan Catbalogan City, Samar HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND (HDMF/PAGIBIG FUND), Mortgagee-Petitioner, -versusELPEDIO I. LABONG, JR. Mortgagor-Respondent PETITION FOR SALE Under Act No. 3135 As Amended x- - - - - - - - - - - - -x SHERIFF’S NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION SALE Upon extra-judicial petition for sale under Act 135, as amended by Act 4118, filed on January 31, 2013, by HDMF (PAG-IBIG FUND), mortgagee-petitioner, with principal office address at Cor. Del Pilar and L. Jaena Sts., Tacloban City, pursuant to the terms and conditions of the original Mortgage Loan Agreed, dated, March 20, 2003, signed in due form by ELPEDIO I. LABONG, JR., mortgagorrespondent, with residence and postal address at Purok 4, Brgy. Muñoz, Catbalogan City, Samar, in favor of PagIBIG FUND (HDMF), Cor. Del Pilar and L. Jaena Sts., Tacloban City, order to satisfy the mortgage debt of THREE HUNDRED THIRTY EIGHT THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED SEVENTY TWO PESOS & 01/100 (338,572.01),

Philippine Currency, as of December 11, 2012, inclusive of principal, interest and surcharges but exclusive of attorney’s fees, legal costs, sheriff’s fees and expenses of foreclosure, the Ex-Officio Sheriff of RTC, Catbalogan City, Samar, by and thru the undersigned, will sell at public auction on March 25, 2013 at 9:00 o’clock in the morning or soon thereafter to 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon at the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Catbalogan City, Samar to the highest bidder, for CASH OR MANAGER’S CHECK and in Philippine Currency, the following property with all its improvements, to wit: TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE No. T-13206 “A parcel of land designated as Lot 9 Block 3 of the consolidated subdivision of Pcs-08-000592-D, being a portion of Lots 24-26 Block 1; Lots 1-13, Blk. 2, Lot 1-12 Blk. 3; Lots 1-12 Blk. 4; Lot 1-12, Blk. 5; Lots 1-12, Blk. 6; Lots 1-12, Blk. 7; Lots 1-12, Blk. 8; Lots 1-3, Blk. 49; Road Lots 1-2-3 Alley 1-2-3-4-5-6 Psd-08-008642-D, situated in the Barangay of Jia-an, Municipality of Jiabong, Province of Samar, Island of Samar. Bounded on the NE., along line 1-2 by Lot 8, Block 3; and on the NW., along line 4-1 by Lot 14, Block 3 all of this subdivision. Beginning at a point marked “1” on plan, being S. 46 deg. 48’E., 456.12 m. From BBM # 18, Cad 255, thence S. 36 deg. 21’E., 10.00 m. to point 2; thence S. 53 deg. 39’W., 10.00 m. to point 3; thence N. 36 deg. 21’W.,

Samar Weekly

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LEGAL NOTICES 10.00 m. to point 4; thence N. 53 deg. 39 E., 10.00 m to point of beginning, containing an area of ONE HUNDRED (100) SQUARE METERS, more or less. All points referred to are indicated on plan and marked on the ground by P.S. cyl. Conc. Mons 15x40 cm. Bearings true: Date of the subdivision survey on March 9-30, 1998 by Geodetic Engineer Potenciano H. Fernandez. Date of approval by the Regional Technical Director, DENR, LMS, Region 08, Tacloban City on November 16, 1998.”

Prospective buyers may investigate for themselves the title herein described and encumbrances thereon, if any there be.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date, it shall be held on April 8, 2013, same time and at the same venue, without further notice.

Catbalogan City, Samar, February 27, 2013.

(Sgd.) MODESTO M. VILLARIN III Sheriff IV

Copy furnished: Pag-IBIG FUND or Home Mutual Development Fund Cor. Del Pilar & L. Jaena Sts. Tacloban City Mr. Elpedio I. Labong, Jr. Purok 4, Brgy. Muñoz Catbalogan City, Samar Samar Weekly Express Catbalogan City, Samar SWE Feb. 26 - March 4; 5 11 & 12 - 18, 2013 issues

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 8th Judicial Region BRANCH 31 Calbayog City IN RE: PETITION FOR CANCELLATION OF CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF LEONARD LOYOLA OBONG (LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY NO. 841 (K-76) OF CALBAYOG CITY, LEONARD LOYOLA OBONG, Petitioner -versusTHE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF CALBAYOG CITY, Samar and THE ADMINISTRATOR and CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL NATIONAL CENSUS and STATISTICS OFFICE, Metro Manila, Respondents.

SPEC. PROC. NO. 496 x-------------x ORDER

A verified petition has been filed by the Petitioner LEONARD LOYOLA OBONG, through counsel praying that after due hearing, the Court will render judgment ordering the Local Civil Registrar of Calbayog City, to cancel the Certificate of Live Birth of the Petitioner under Local Civil Registry No. 841 (K-76) of Calbayog City.

LEGAL NOTICES The Petition reads: 1. That Petitioner is of age, with capacity to sue and be sued and is a resident of Brgy.West Awang J.D. Avelino St., Calbayog City, Samar where summons and processes of the court may be served; 2. That the respondents, the Local Civil Registrar of Calbayog City, and the Administrator and Civil Registrar, National Census and Statistics Office have its official and postal addresses at the City Hall.Calbayog City, Samar and Metro Manila,respectively, where they may be served with notice and other processes.

3. That PETITIONER is a son of spouses Leticia Loyola and Eufronio Olaes Obong, born on November 14, 1978. The facts of his birth was first registered on November 22, 1976 at the Civil Registry of Calbayog City under local Civil Registry No. 841 (K-76) as per hereto attached NSO copy of Certificate of Live Birth marked as Annex “A”.

4. That by unadvertence Petitioner registered again the facts of birth the petitioner in accordance with delayed registration at the Civil Registry of Calbayog City under Local Civil Registry No. 2000-1723 on May 17, 2000, as per hereto attached NSO copy of Certificate of Live Birth marked as Annex “B”.

5. That the Petitioner, has consistently been using his delayed Certificate of Live Birth under Local Civil Registry No. 2000-1723 in all his official records and

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The new station is a part of the modernization program of the PNP particularly on upgrading of its physical facilities. Another police building will also be constructed in an island town of Daram in the next few months, it was learned.

“The people deserves an excellent police performance from the new breed of police heroes travelling the right path, and a few months from now, you will be serve better by our policemen in their new home,” said Soria.

“At least a decent police station would surely boost the morale of our local police and earn the respect of the community,” the police official added.

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documents as it is the said Certificate of Live Birth which has long been to his possession and was thus made as official basis in all his official records.

6. That it was lately, when upon verification from the NSO, that the Petitioner came to know of the previously registered Certificate of Live Birth; 7. T h a t t h e r e i s a need to cancel the previous registration which was forwarded to the Civil Registrar General in order to forestall confusion and straightened the records of petitioner’s facts of birth.

Finding the Petition to be sufficient in form and in substance, notice is hereby given that this case be set for hearing on May 31, 2013 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning before this Court, at which date, time and place, all persons who have an objection thereto may file opposition and show cause why the same should not be granted.

Let this Order be published at the expense of the Petitioner once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks prior the above-setting in a newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Samar and in Calbayog City.

Let copies of this Order be furnished the Solicitor General, Makati City, the Civil Registrar General of National Census and Statistics Office, Quezon City, the Local Civil Registrar of Calbayog City, the City Prosecutor, the Office of the Clerk of Court, RTC, Calbayog City and the Petitioner and his counsel for their information and guidance.

SO ORDERED Calbayog City, Philippines, March 4, 2013.

(Sgd.) REYNALDO B. CLEMENS Judge

SWE March 5 - 11; 12 - 18 & 19 - 25, 2013 issues

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Samar Weekly Express

NEWS

MARCH 5 - 11, 2013 LEGAL NOTICES Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 8th Judicial Region BRANCH 31 Calbayog City IN RE: PETITION FOR ISSUANCE OF LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE INTESTATE ESTATE OF VICENTE TAN, a.k.a.

YU SI TIAC REMEDIOS AWAYAN TAN, Petitioner SPECIAL PROC. NO.497 x------------x O R D ER

A verified petition has been filed by the Petitioner REMEDIOS AWAYANTAN through counsel praying that after publication, notice and hearing, letters of administration be issued to petitioner and/ or Vicente Lucero for the administration of the estate of the deceased Vicente Tan upon giving of a bond in such reasonable sum as the Honorable Court may fix and that after all the properties of the deceased Vicente

GRTY

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Brgy. Silanga, Catbalogan, Samar

7

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ELECTION from page 1 ...

LEGAL NOTICES

Tan have been inventoried and the income from these properties fully accounted for and expenses, if any, duly paid, the said estate of Vicente Tan be settled and distributed among his surviving heirs in accordance with law.

The Petition reads 1. Petitioner is of legal age, widow of the late Vicente Tan and a resident of Brgy. Payahan Calbayog City; 2. Petitioner’s husband Vicente Tan also known by his Chinese name Yu Si Tiac was a naturalized Filipino. He died on July 28, 2007 at Calbayog City, Philippines.

He was a resident of Calbayog City at the time of his death: Certified copy of his Certificate of Death is hereto attached as Annex A 3. Petitioner and Vicente Tan were married on June 27, 1988 at Calbayog City, Philippines.

Certified copy of their Marriage Contract is hereto attached as Annex B 4. The late Vicente Tan died without a will and, so far as known to petitioner without any debts.

5. The names, ages and residence of the surviving heirs of Vicente Tan, including herein petitioner, are the following:

AFM., Industrial Watchman & Protective Agency Branch Office: Camia St., San Pablo, Catbalogan City

Branch Manager: ARIEL C. TY

Name Vicente Lucero

Age 60

Samuel Diomagay Samson Tan Sammy Diomangay Melody Tan

56 39 37 24

Remedios Tan

65

Residence Brgy. San Policarpo, Calbayog City Brgy.Payahan, Calbayog City Brgy. Payahan, Calbayog City Brgy. Payahan, Calbayog City #5 Sampaguita St.,Filmvest I, Quezon City Brgy. Payahan, Calbayog City

6. That intestate estate of petitioner’s husband Vicente Tan consist of the undivided one-half the following real properties; Description a. Land Improvement TD 99-01086-00859

Location Brgy. Payahan Calbayog City

Assessed Value Php 976,320.00

b. Land Improvement TD 99-01010-01095

Brgy. Balud Calbayog City

Php 43,800.00

c. Land Improvement TD 99-01014-01485

Brgy.Obrero Calbayog City

Php165,600.00

d. Agri Land TD 49222

Brgy. Trinidad Calbayog City

Php 6,630.00

7. Petitioner posseses all the qualifications and none of the disqualification for appointment as administrator of the intestate of her late husband Vicente Tan. 8. Vicente Lucero, the eldest son of my late husband by Concepcion Lucero, likewise posseses all the qualifications and none of the disqualification for appointment as administrator as is ready, able and willing to serve as such if appointment by the Honorable Court.

Finding the Petition to be sufficient in form and in substance, notice is hereby given that this case is set for hearing on May 31, 2013 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning before this Court, at which date, time and place, all persons who have an objection thereto may

file any opposition and show cause why the same should not be granted.

Let this order be published at the expense of the Petitioner once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks prior the above-setting in a newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Samar and in Calbayog City.

Let copies of the order be furnished the surviving heirs and the Petitioners and her counsel.

SO ORDERED Calbayog City Philippines, March 4, 2013.

(Sgd.) REYNALDO B. CLEMENS Judge

SWE March 5 - 11; 12 - 18 & 19 - 25, 2013 issues

Mobile No. 0947.9711.031 Republic of the Philippines Province of Samar Municipality of Sta. Margarita

INVITATION TO BID FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF MEDICINES 1. The Local Government Unit of Sta. Margarita, Samar, through the FY 2013 Budget RA 10352, from the Priority Development Assistance Fund of Congressman Mel Senen Sarmiento, intends to apply the sum of TWO MILLION FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (Php2,5000,000.00) being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments under the contract for the Procurement of Medicines 2013-03-02. Bids received in excess of the ABC shall be automatically rejected at bid opening.

2. The Local Government Unit of Sta. Margarita, Samar now invites bids for the Procurement of Medicines. Delivery of the Goods is required within 15 calendar days. Bidders should have completed, within one year from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the Project. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II. Instructions to Bidders.

3. Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act.” Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183 and subject to Commonwealth Act 138.

4. Interested bidders may obtain further information from Local Government Unit of Sta. Margarita, Samar and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below during 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.

A complete set of Bidding Documents may be purchased by interested Bidders on March 11, 2013 from the address below and upon payment of a non-refundable fee for the Bidding Documents in the amount of Five Thousand Pesos (Php5, 000.00).

Bids and Awards Committee Secretariat Municipal Building Municipal Treasurer’s Office Municipality of Sta. Margarita, Samar Tel. No. 055-2098161 It may also be downloaded free of charge from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) and the website of the Procuring Entity, provided that Bidders shall pay the nonrefundable fee for the Bidding Documents not later than the submission of their bids.

5. The Local Government Unit of Sta. Margarita, Samar will hold a Pre-Bid Conference on March 11, 2013 at 10:00 o’clock in the morning at the Municipal Health Office, Conference Room, Sta. Margarita, Samar which shall be open only to all interested parties who have purchased the Bidding Documents.

6. Bids must be delivered to the address below on or March 25, 2013 at 8:00 o’clock in the morning. All Bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18.

Bid opening shall be on March 25, 2013 at 8:00 o’clock in the morning at Municipal Health Office, Conference Room, Sta. Margarita, Samar. Bids will be opened in the presence of the Bidder’s representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

7. The Local Government Unit of Sta. Margarita, Samar reserves the right to accept or reject any bid. To annul the bidding process, and to reject all bids at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

8. For further information, please refer to: (Sgd) ENGR. MARVIN S. MABUTIN BAC Chairman Municipal Engineering Office

6709 National Highway, Sta. Margarita, Samar Tel. No. 055-2098161 E-mail: carolynguadalquiver@yahoo.com Date of Posting: SWE March 5 - 11, 2013 issue

Tan herself will face lawyer Eunice Babalcon of the Liberal Party (LP) and Villareal town Mayor Reynato Latorre of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) in a threecornered fight.

The 55-year-old Tan, a widow who became board member in 1998 and served three terms as governor from 2001 to 2010, will be running for her second term as congresswoman under the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC). She represents the province’s second district which is composed of Catbalogan City and 15 towns.

Babalcon is a scion of a political family in Paranas town. Both her parents have served as Paranas mayor. Her father Felix is a former provincial board member and is now seeking a third consecutive term as Paranas mayor.(See Babalcon political dynasty) Latorre, on the other hand, is a three-term mayor of Villareal, Samar. His sister Marilou is now running for Villareal mayor under the NPC banner.

In the 2007 elections, Milagrosa let her second daughter Sharee Ann run for congresswoman in the second district of Samar.

Sharee, then a political neophyte, won.

Then in 2010, when Milagrosa was already in her third and last term as governor, she switched places with Sharee Ann and ran as congresswoman. Also in 2010, Milagrosa fielded Stephen James, her third child who was then also a political neophyte, to run as vice governor.

All three won the elections.

This year, three more members of their family will be joining them. Milagrosa’s oldest and youngest children, as well as her late husband’s younger brother, will all be seeking public office.

Milagrosa’s brotherin-law, businessman Arnold Vasquez Tan (NP), 37, is challenging the reelection bid of incumbent Representative Mel Senen Sarmiento (LP), 50, a former vice mayor and three-

The Samar Weekly Express Editorial Staff and Employees strongly support the immediate passage of the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill!

term mayor of Calbayog.

They are battling it out for the first district of Samar, composed of of Calbayog City and nine towns.

In Calbayog City, Milagrosa’s 32-year-old businesswoman daughter, her eldest Angelie, is running against both the incumbent city mayor, Ronald P. Aquino (LP), and the vice mayor, Rey James R. Uy (Independent). Aquino and Uy were elected vice mayor and councilor, respectively, but moved up after the assassination of Calbayog Mayor Renaldo Uy in 2011.

The slain Calbayog mayor’s eldest daughter, Rosa Jessica “Aika” Uy, 30 and a registered nurse, is now the official Liberal Party candidate for Samar governor. She faces Sharee Ann (NPC), 31 and a pharmacist by profession.

Sharee Ann is seeking re-election, with her younger brother, James Stephen “Jimboy,” 29, still her running mate. Jimboy faces Wilfredo Estorninos, the long-time mayor of Basey, Samar.

Milagrosa’s youngest child Reynolds Michael (NPC), 24, is seeking the mayoral post of Catbalogan. A culinary arts and hotel management graduate and a political neophyte, he is pitted against his former sister-in-law, 29-year-old Stephany “Step” Uy-Tan (LP), who is the estranged wife of his vice governor-brother.

Step, currently city councilor, once served as barangay captain and ex-officio member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Samar. She is the eldest of the four children of Coefredo Uy (LP), a three-term mayor of Catbalogan who is now running as councillor under the LP. Step’s running mate is Sherwin Art Gabon, 34, a former councilor and incumbent vice mayor of Catbalogan City. On the other hand, Reynolds Michael has Manuel Van Torrevillas, 44, a former vice mayor of Catbalogan, as his running mate.

The third man in the three-cornered mayoral fight in Catbalogan City is Jesus Redaja (Independent), 72, a former Catbalogan mayor and Samar vice governor.

In the forthcoming elections in Samar, many political families field-

ed their kin. But many people, including some politicians, civil society organizations and the Catholic Church, are very much opposed to political dynasties.

Local political analyst Ananias M. Leona explained the proliferation of dynasties by pointing to Congress, which “has not (yet) defined what is a political dynasty, its scope or limitation or who are qualified (to run) and who are not qualified.”

Leona, who teaches political science at the Leyte Normal University in Tacloban City, pointed out that Filipinos like holding on to power.

“That is the trait of Filipinos, because we want to be recognized and be given authority...(and) to perpetuate our name,” he said.

He admitted though that there is something advantageous about a political dynasty.

“If a person (belonging to a political dynasty) has a strong political will to do things for the betterment of the country, that is good,” Leona said. “Let us say he has a strong desire to do good to the country and do not have a vested interest, that is a good advantage.”

He quickly added, though, “But who would do that?”

Article II, Sec. 26 of the 1987 Constitution prohibits political dynasties. It states: “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.”

But the Commission on Elections has no clear basis to enforce this constitutional prohibition Until now, Congress has not passed its implementing legislation.

When asked about the issue of political dynasties, Governor Sharee Ann Tan pointed out that the election is not an appointment to a position.

“It’s up to the people if they would like me, my siblings or my mom, the congresswoman. It’s up to the people if they would like us because the voting is not by pacquiao system (wholesale),” she said.

(VERA Files is put out by veteran journalists taking a deeper look at current issues. Vera is Latin for “true.”)

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Contact our ALMA at 321-4483 (Tacloban) or CATHY at 251-2341 in Catbalogan City.

MARCH 5 - 11, 2013

8 Pages

SALE! SALE! SALE! BEACH LOT FOR SALE! 1.) 2,037 sq. m.

2.) 5, 272 sq. m.

P500/sq. m. ONLY!

WOMEN’S MONTH. This year’s celebration held in Paranas, centered with the “Magna Carta for Women” and talks on how to fight abuse on children and Human Trafficking in Samar and in the Philippines. (Ricky J. Bautista)

Its summer time!

HIT THE ROAD:

By VIRNA LUNA N. DE LOYOLA, News & Features

FROM volunteering and getting some work experience, to partying and relaxing, what goes on your mind if summer comes along? Haven’t you draft yet your list of “what-to do” and “where-to go” this summer?

If there’s none yet, you better be hurry because summer is fast approaching. Days run fast and before you knew it, it is already summer. Pack your gears, have a checklist, hit the road and head up to your destination.

As the classic ads say, it’s more fun in the Philippines.

Much more in Samar, there are a lot of things to do and lot of amazing sites to visit. Though, some are familiar to you, there are new discoveries which you enjoy together with your peers, friends and family!

Surely is, summer usually the perfect time for our long-awaited “bonding” moments with our loved ones.

Some of us may spend semi-breaks, from our schools and universities, to do summer jobs, but sure thing is, many of us especially those who enjoy the luxury of life spend these days into travels, camping and vacations in places unfamiliar to us.

Some people though prefer taking advantage of the warmer temperatures by spending more time outdoors during the summer. Activities such as traveling to the white beaches and picnics can also be done during summer months.

It is during these times that we can play longer on ball sports such as volleyball, baseball, tennis, among others.

Water sports can also be a good choice, especially for those hobbyists who liked upbeat activities that need adrenaline sports such as wakeboarding, swimming, and surfing.

Wikipedia associated summer with hot and dry weather, but this does not suited in all regions. In areas of

EVERY summer, most Pinoys hit the road for the most-awaited ‘vacation’ time and to have their summer bonding moments with their peers, friends and family.

Clean Papers Location: Brgy. Tingib, Basey, Samar Fronting Tacloban City

0920.7675.444

AKSYON NA, AGA NA! Hosted by AKSYON GILBERT ‘Gibo’ ARTECHE 5:30 - 6:30 A.M. Mon.-Fri. Simulcast with MSFM 102.5 khz

‘Gawad Kalinga’ team visits Calbayog city

the tropics and subtropics, the wet season occurs during the summer. The wet season is the main period of vegetation growth within the savanna climate regime. Where the wet season is associated with a seasonal shift in the prevailing winds, it is known as a monsoon.

It is important that we knew the weather before we hit the road for next camping or vacation trip.

If you’re one of the nature-lover type of person, one who loves to go through natural and even man-made resources, you can go visit “low-budget” destinations such the Mainit Hot and Cold Springs, Caibiran Waterfalls, Higatangan and Sambawan Island in Biliran; Calicoan and Homonhon Islands and Amandaraga Falls in Eastern Samar; Biri Rock Formation and Capul lighthouse in Northern Samar and Sohoton National Park, Bangon Falls and Rapids and Calbiga Cave in Samar.

According to a report from the National Statistics Coordinating Board (NSCB), our famous landscapes and landmarks in the region particularly the San Juanico Bridge,

One of the world’s best tourist destinations during summer time - Boracay.

Palo Cathedral, Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park, Leyte Sab-a Basin Wetland Agri-Eco Park, Lake Danao, Tabuk Marine Park, and Mac Arthur National Park in Leyte; Limasawa Island, Agas Agas Adventure Park and Guinsohotan Falls in Southern Leyte has been the favorite destination of foreign tourists during summer time. So now, if in case you haven’t yet visited these places, why not take a peek into our very own sites.

Truly yes, there are so many things to get done on summer. Maybe some of us can enroll to a cooking lesson, driving school, career boosting courses, earning school points or simply look for a summer jobs. You can even just stay at home for your laundry. Kidding aside, everything is possible. We only need to get ready and prepared for our summer escapades.

And whatever suits you this coming

CALBAYOG CITY -- Volunteers from Gawad Kalinga (GK) paid courtesy visits to some of the government offices in this city to introduce their upcoming project dubbed as “Gawad Kalinga Bayani Challenge” – a team building activity at GK Village, Barangay Dinagan, this city on March 23-27, this year.

At the office of the Department of Public Works and Highways First Engineering Office, Ms. Jiffy Baltazar and her companions, gave a presentation on how the GK challenge work.

The GK volunteers said the main advocacy of GK is about “building one country, one nation.”

Meanwhile, the GK Bayani Challenge is a 5-day test of courage, endurance and love for country. This is an annual gathering of heroes - both local and foreign –for a massive show of collective action, inspiring more people to work together and build the nation.

This activity will be participated by teams of 15 members who will stay in one area to volunteer and interact with the locals. For 5 days, teams will be deployed to activities that address social issues behind poverty such as building houses, refurbishing public schools, community health, Paraisong Pambata (playtime with kids), and clean up and greening program.

GK volunteers visit government and private offices to invite more participants for the challenge. This activity is simultaneous to a similar activity conducted by other GK stations nationwide.

(Leviresa G. Barnizo, DPWH) GK Team Members visit the office of the DPWH, among other offices in Calbayog City for the “GK Bayani Challenge.”

summer breaks, you have to enjoy it. After all, you need a break from your daily buzz office and school chores. Spend the day with your love ones; I think that’s the noblest way of spending your holidays.

As we all know summer is seasonal, so bring it on and enjoy. Let’s rock and roll this summer!