Bangko Sentral clamps down on counterfeiters
November 03, 2006 –By: Romie A. Evangelista - Manila Standard TodayInquirer

THE central bank intensified its campaign against fake five- and 10-peso coins yesterday by offering rewards to people who can provide information on their counterfeiters.

“The syndicates involved in the manufacture of fake five- and 10-peso coins are taking advantage of the situation considering that the Christmas season is near,” Fe de la Cruz, the Bangko Sentral’s director for corporate affairs, told reporters in Camp Crame.

She said the central bank was ready to give cash rewards to informants, and that it recently paid out P325,000 to one.

She also urged people who have received any of the fake coins to surrender them to the central bank or to the bank nearest them or risk arrest for holding them.

“Peso counterfeiters usually do their thing when the Christmas season begins and before a national election is held,” National Police spokesman Samuel Pagdilao said.

“The public should help the police go after these counterfeiters so they could be arrested and charged in court.”

The National Bureau of Investigation has arrested several suspected counterfeiters, including a Chinese national, and seized P5 million worth of fake 10-peso coins.

Police have also arrested five Filipinos and a Chinese national for counterfeiting five-peso coins.

In Kalibo, Aklan, central bank officials warned the public against proliferating counterfeit coins after seizing P29,500 worth of fake five- and 10-peso coins.

They said they believed a Taiwanese syndicate was likely to have been circulating the fake coins in Aklan, Antique, Iloilo and Capiz after confiscating the coins from an Ilongo trader.

“The trader said he got the fake coins from his Taiwanese client as payment for construction materials,” said Grace Malic, head of the central bank’s currency analysis division in Kalibo.

She said the trader was arrested for using the coins to pay for some purchases, but was released later after validating his claim that he indeed received the coins from his Taiwanese client.

Counter Point: Boracay invasion
By Alvn Capino Nov 3 2006
Manila Standard Today

Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez should order an investigation of the alleged participation of agents of the National Bureau of Investigation in the invasion of a resort in Boracay.

The NBI enjoys a lot of goodwill among the general public. It is regarded as a law enforcement agency of last resort. It is a disappointment when NBI agents participate in alleged questionable acts: Such actions only put to waste the hard- earned goodwill of the NBI.

Perhaps, NBI Director Nestor Mantaring can order an immediate investigation of the incident and order the necessary sanctions if indeed there were NBI agents involved in the Boracay invasion.

The incident happened last Oct. 17. A group composed of supposed NBI agents, security guards from an agency owned by a retired National Police general, and unidentified men from Mindoro tried to take over the Boracay SandCastles Beach Resort owned by Australian foreign correspondent Greg Hutchinson and his Filipino wife Viveca Ferrer Hutchinson.

The invasion was allegedly organized by the girlfriend of a certain George Gaitanos, an Australian former sub-lessee of the resort who was ejected from the Boracay resort. Gaitanos’ sub-lease was canceled about a year ago because of non-payment of the lease. Gaitanos filed estafa cases against the Hutchinsons.

The Hutchinsons’ life has been hell since then. They said that NBI agents have been hounding them since Gaitanos was ejected. In fact, last Aug. 23, three carloads of men went to the couple’s house in Parañaque. A man who introduced himself as an NBI agent tried to serve a warrant of arrest and tried to force entry into the Hutchinson residence.

At that time, only the couple’s twins and their housemaids were in the house. The maid shut the door and locked the house to prevent the armed men from entering the house. The Hutchinsons said they would have been abducted that day if the armed men caught up with them.

NBI agents serving a warrant of arrest for an estafa case? This indeed is extraordinary and a waste of time for NBI agents who must have more important things to do.

The Hutchinsons say they are willing to provide Gonzalez and Mantaring with all the information that they need to identify the NBI agents who have been harassing them for about one year now with the Oct. 17 incident as only the latest.

It would be interesting to find out how the NBI agents, if there were indeed any, who were involved in the Oct. 17 incident would explain their participation. The legal case against the Hutchinsons had already been cleared. The Department of Justice found no basis for the charge of estafa against the Hutchinsons by Evangeline Dalino representing Gaitanos.

The justice department resolution promulgated on Oct. 2 reverses and sets aside the earlier resolution of the Provincial Prosecution Office in Aklan. It says it finds “no probable cause to indict spouses Charles Gregory Hutchinson and Viveca Ferrer Hutchinson.”

Another complaint of grave coercion filed by Dalino for Gaitanos against the Hutchinsons also did not prosper at the prosecutor’s level.

So what is the basis for the takeover attempt? Apparently, there was none. The NBI agents who would be proven to have participated in it and in the harassment of the Hutchinson couple should be given disciplinary sanction by Mantaring.

Many people could have been hurt in the invasion where the invaders came into the resort brandishing pipes, bolos and a sledge hammer. There was a lone casualty, Mrs. Mary Donelson, a guest of the resort who suffered a stroke and was taken to a hospital in Iloilo.

Where was the police during the commotion? Nowhere. The police was called at 6 a.m. to lend emergency assistance and restore peace. According to the Hutchinsons, four policemen arrived at 7:35 a.m. when the invaders had already disappeared.

The Hutchinsons are concerned that the incident may have possible adverse effects on tourism in Boracay and in the country. They say they heard that the incident (and what happened to Mrs. Donelson) had prompted the United States embassy to review its travel advisor for Boracay on account of perceived safety risks.

The owners of SandCastles have gotten in touch with the Donelson family who had replied through e-mail that they do not wish the incident to prompt a warning about Boracay.

Plane accident delays flights near Boracay; no injuries
November 02, 2006 –Inquirer

THE LANDING gear of a small plane broke as it touched down in the central Philippines on Thursday, blocking the runway and delaying flights carrying tourists bound for popular Boracay Island, an official said.

The left landing gear of the plane, owned by domestic budget carrier Interisland Airline, broke on landing, causing the plane to swerve and get stuck on the grassy shoulder at Caticlan airport in Aklan province, airport manager Efren Nagrama said.

The two pilots and a flight attendant were unhurt, Nagrama told The Associated Press by telephone. The 36-seater plane was not carrying any passengers at the time and had flown from Manila to pick up a group of foreign tourists.

The plane, its left wing damaged, partially blocked the runway, prompting authorities to close the airport. Three incoming flights were diverted and five outgoing ones were delayed, he said.

Airport personnel towed the plane away after three hours, allowing flights to resume, he said.

Caticlan's airport handles about 90 incoming and outgoing flights a day because of the droves of tourists traveling to nearby Boracay Island, a top tourist draw. Caticlan is about 300 kilometers (190 miles) south of Manila.

Move over, America, the Chinese are coming
November 02, 2006 –Inquirer

AND it is coming in a big way, quite unprecedented by any measure.

a. From 2001 to 2005, Philippine trade with China grew at an annual rate of 41.9 percent. In 2005, it amounted to almost $17 billion. Our top exports to China are semiconductor devices, machinery parts and accessories, electrical and electronic machinery, and electronic micro-assemblies. Now, roughly one-third of our total electronics exports are skewed toward the Chinese market.

b. Imports to the Philippines from China in the first seven months of 2006 totaled $2.103 billion, while exports to China reached $2.352 billion.

c. While the Philippines had foreign exchange reserves of $21.56 billion as of end-September, China ha $$987.9 billion -- the world's largest. The mighty United States had only $65.9 billions in official reserve assets as of Oct. 20, 2006, a pitiful half of what tiny Hong Kong had as its own reserves -- $130 billion as of end-September.

d. After pledging (in July 2006) $6 billion in soft loans (20 years at 3.0 percent annual interest) to finance Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's mega-infrastructure projects for her "super regions," China's Jinchuan Non-Ferrous Materials Corp. and China Development Bank have given $1 billion in technical and financial assistance to Philnico Industrial Corp.'s nickel project on Nonoc Island in the southern province of Surigao del Norte and Pacific Nickel Philippines Inc. This will be the biggest single Chinese investment in the country.

e. And after providing $400 million to finance the construction of the NorthRail Project, Phase 1, Section 1, China will provide an additional $500 million in funding for the North and South rail projects in the Philippines.

f. Three ethanol fuel plants will be set up by China in the Philippines, involving development of thousands of hectares of land for sugar cane, the main ingredient in ethanol production.

Two ethanol plants in Negros island will be developed by BSBM Biofuels Corp. and Southern Negros Development Corp: one for 120,000 liters a day in Murcia town in Negros Occidental province, and another with a capacity of 150,000 liters a day in Camugao and Camansi in Kabankalan City, using sugarcane molasses as feedstock. About 10,000-12,000 hectares of land will be developed for these projects.

A third ethanol plant will be built in Zamboanga del Norte province by a joint venture with state-owned China Machineries Engineering, with a production capacity of 150,000 liters of ethanol daily, in line with the administration's goal of achieving at least 60 percent energy self-sufficiency by 2010.

g. $10 million has been committed in a mineral production agreement signed by Adnama Resources Inc., Fulim Global Mining & Export Corp., and Fujian Wahang Stainless Steel Co Ltd. for exploration, development and utilization of 4,568 hectares of mineral property in the Philippines.

h. The railway system in the island of Panay (comprising the provinces of Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan and Antique) will be rehabilitated and developed by the China Shenyang International Economic and Technical Cooperation Corp in partnership with Panay Railways Inc.

i. Century Properties Inc. and the LEE World Group have formed a joint venture firm to produce and market construction materials.

j. First Metro Investment Corp. and Donghai Securities Co. have signed an agreement of cooperation in the field of securities, trading and investment banking services.

k. A joint venture company for real estate development in the Philippines and China has been set up by Haisheng Real Estate Co., Century Properties Inc and Federal Land Inc.

l. An agreement has been signed between the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce Inc. (FFCCCI) and the All China Federation of Industry and Commerce to increase business facilitation between the two countries.

m. An agreement has been signed between the FFCCCII and the Fujian Normal University to establish a Filipino-Chinese language institute for professionals and overseas Filipino workers who want to learn the Chinese language.

n. Starting next year, the Philippines will be sending the first batch of 1,000 senior nursing students to China for a one-year tour of duty to share their knowledge in nursing care and expertise in hospital work with their Chinese counterparts. Already, two big nursing schools in China have expressed interest in hiring Filipino nurses to teach there.

o. Before yearend, China will set up a consular post in Laoag City in the northern province of Ilocos Norte (the second outside Manila after the one in Cebu), in anticipation of increased trade, tourism, cultural affairs and business transactions within the so-called "Golden Triangle," linking the Philippines, Taiwan and China, as proposed by the FFCCCII headed by Francis Chua. The Laoag International Airport has been bustling with nearly daily flights to Manila and Basco in the northernmost province of Batanes (construction of the P10-million Basco airport terminal building has been completed) plus thrice-weekly flights to Kaohsiung, Taiwan and Guangzhou, China, and six weekly flights to Hong Kong.

Something is definitely cooking. Remember that the North Luzon Agribusiness Quadrangle is being eyed as a food exporter to North Asia, with Cagayan province focusing on agriculture production.

p. The Philippines and China (joined in by Vietnam) have just finished joint seismic research in the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. Soon, joint exploration will be conducted, to turn an area of possible conflict into an area of cooperation. Funding should not be a problem, should a major discovery be made.

q. China's biggest power distributor, State Grid Xiamen Electric, which supplies 88 percent of China's total electricity load and which posted $89 billion in 2005 net profit, will be bidding for the Philippines' National Transmission Corp. (Transco), which will be privatized this December to bring down power rates. Should the Chinese company, in partnership with Monte Oro Resources and Energy Inc. (an affiliate of publicly listed A. Brown Co. Inc.), win the bid, it should put an additional check on the transfer pricing between Manila Electric Co. and its independent power producers.

My advice to my friends: Get out of the US dollar while you can, and get into the Chinese yuan when you can.

Mayor reminds PNP anew to enforce strict security measures
November 01, 2006 – Balita.org - Minsterley,UK

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Trenas again reminded the city PNP, under the leadership of newly-installed city director S/Supt. Wesley Barayuga, to strictly enforce security measures in all public and private cemeteries throughout the city in Wednesday's celebration of All Saints Day.

He also reminded the police about the ban against liquor and gambling activities and the city ordinance on curfew for minors to prevent occurrence of possible gang war that could mar the peaceful and solemn celebration in honoring the dead.

Meanwhile, S/Supt. Barayuga said security preparations are now in place with the putting up of Police Assistance Center in the cemeteries and the deployment of K-9 units to monitor peace and order situation in bus terminals and cemeteries throughout the city.

Uniformed PNP personnel, he said, will remain in various cemeteries for the two-day observance in enforcing underlined security plans with augmentation from multiplier force like police interns and barangay tanods.

Police authorities here are not only focusing their attention in various cemeteries but also in barangays for petty crimes.

Operatives of the Iloilo City Mobile Group (ICMG) likewise keep their watch on various entry and exit points throughout the city and conduct random checkpoints to deter criminal elements who may be out to sow trouble and take advantage of the occasion.

Since Tuesday, the city police was placed on alert status to ensure peaceful atmosphere here in line with Camp Crame's directive to implement strict security measures while the country honors the dead.

PNP regional director C/Supt. Geary Barias and Barayuga have personally inspected the security preparations here and Barias expressed dismay on security lax in bus terminals in the outskirt of city proper like the inspection of baggages and cargoes of passengers going to Antique, Aklan and Capiz provinces, thus, the deployment of K-9 units. (PNA)

Pinoy ‘ihaw-ihaw’ goes indoor
November 01, 2006
By Vangie Baga-Reyes – Inquirer

SENATOR Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan had the idea for an indoor do-it-yourself tabletop grilling. Enrico “Rikki” Dee had the entrepreneurial skill to turn it into reality.

The result? The three-month-old Lamesa Grill on the ground floor of SM Mall of Asia with a majestic view of the Manila Bay.

“For several years, Senator Kiko toyed with the idea of a restaurant where you can grill or broil your own food in the company of family or friends,” says Dee. “He told me, if the Japanese, Koreans and Chinese could grill... on the table and make big money, why can’t we? They’re not known for grilling their food but we are. Filipinos love ihaw-ihaw.”

But, as Pinoys usually do their grilling outdoors on charcoal or gas grills, “he made me do some research on indoor grilling,” says Dee.

Pinoys seem to love the idea. Lamesa Grill is usually packed with diners who seem to have fun grilling their favorite seafood and meats. On weekends, it is filled with families and balikbayans.

For its pioneering concept, Lamesa tapped Japanese technology. It uses built-in charcoal-fueled tabletops. Initially, they had a problem with the exhaust system’s inability to control the smoke.

“Now, we have just invested a huge amount of money for a new exhaust system. Instead of the smoke going up, the new exhaust machine will vacuum it downward, making your grilling more enjoyable,” says Dee.

Bit of everything

Lamesa offers a little of everything. Seafood includes halaan, tahong, sugpo, scallops, tawilis, tiyan ng bangus.

Specialties “On a stick” include pork BBQ, pwet ng manok, balun-balunan and atay ng manok. “On a platter” consists of pork lengua, pork belly, tadyang ng baka, chicken thighs and chicken wings.

Lamesa offers combo platters—all-meat, all-seafood or a combination. The seafood comes from General Santos City, Aklan and Bacolod.

One dish that stands out and the owners are proud of is the Kinulob sa Asin Dagat or rock salt cooking. The fish, either tilapia or apahap (local seabass), is wrapped in rock salt and grilled.

“This is an old way of cooking fish, introduced by the Spaniards, when we didn’t have refrigerators,” says Dee. “The magic here is, after grilling the fish and removing the burnt rock salt, the fish is not at all salty. Its skin and flesh are very moist like it has been steamed.”

Star attraction

Dee, a successful restaurateur who also owns Mangan, Ebun, Crocodile, Kai and Kitchen, among others, knows that, despite the novelty of indoor ihaw-ihaw, Lamesa needed other attractions to survive.

Wanting something unique, distinct from what other Filipino restaurants offered, the restaurant came up with Crispchon.

“It’s the house bida,” Dee proudly says.

The skin and meat of Crispchon, short for crispy lechon, are carved out, chopped into bite-size pieces and served wrapped in thin pandan crepe with slivers of cucumber, wansuy and leeks.

Diners can choose from six kinds of sauces: garlic, wansuy-inspired, sweet chili, spicy pork liver, Rikki’s Choice (hoisin-based) and curry mustard, said to be Sharon Cuneta’s favorite.

Crispchon skin is so soft yet crispy and it really melts in the mouth.

“We felt there should be a reinvention of Pinoy restaurants. With Crispchon, you can have lechon in a restaurant without having to order the entire thing... We’re so proud of Crispchon we even patented it,” says Dee.

Crispchon is available at Lamesa (tel. 5560737) in different serving sizes. For P2,900, a group can have one whole Crispchon. Half costs P1,450; one-fourth, P780; and one-sixth, P480.

Waiting time for each Crispchon order is only 10 minutes. Lamesa has a high-tech German cooker that easily and quickly steams, grills or broils. “The cooker cost a million bucks but it makes life easier for us in the restaurant,” says Dee. Other items on Lamesa’s menu are Tahong with Cheese, Halaan a la Pobre, Scallops in Garlic Butter, Tokwa’t Baboy, Crispy Tenga, Sisig Mayo, Crispy Pusit Sisig, Pinsec Prito. There’s also a platter of crispy tawilis, tinapa rolls, calamares, pinsec, kropeck, crispy tenga and peanuts.

Desserts include Guinumis, Toffee Banana, Turon, Dalandan Sorbet and Kamias Sorbet.

Lamesa Grill’s indoor dining area recreates the ambience of typical Pinoy dwellings in the provinces. Bamboo was used for walls and ceilings, while the overhead exhaust system was covered with nipa. Ifugao-inspired wooden chairs have been used.

The place can accommodate about 180 people, indoor and outdoor. The second floor, suitable for private functions, can hold 25 guests.

Grilling tips

Boracay’s newest baby
October 25, 2006
By AMIEL MARTIN CABANLIG

It seems that Boracay is on everyone’s minds! From students on their sem-breaks to professionals looking for that perfect getaway, the white sands and cerulean waters of this island paradise paint the idyllic picture of a much-needed escape from the city doldrums.

While tying some loose ends of my own here in Manila before I jet off to my own radical sabbatical, I happened upon some of my UPIS schoolmates who were more than ecstatic to tell me that one of our contemporaries now has his eyes set on Boracay’s beautiful shores. Pato takes it to the beach

I was delighted to learn that one of my good friends, Patrick "Pato" Gregorio, has decided to mix business with pleasure in his new venture on Boracay Island.

After his days at UPIS, Pato has continued his Maroon-blooded education, graduating cum laude at the University of the Philippines with a BS Tourism Management degree before pursuing postgraduate diplomas from the Singapore Hotel Technical and Educational Center (Phil. Program) and from the prestigious Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. Since then, he has focused his professional career in developing and helping maximize the Philippines' tourism potential garnering a slew of awards and recognitions like Ten Outstanding Young Men’s award in 2003 (a first from the Tourism industry) and Cebu’s Man of The Year 2001 awarded by Women in Travel.

Diniwid Beach Hotel Corp., (the Boracay franchise holder of the US-based Microtel chain) will be opening a 51-room Microtel Inn & Suites in Boracay, Aklan, in November and as the chief marketing officer of Microtel Inn & Suites (Pilipinas), Patrick is now concentrating on this promising venture.

According to Jose Mari del Rosario, president of Microtel Inn & Suites (Pilipinas), "We are excited about bringing Microtel to Boracay Island. We’ll be the first international chain hotel to open there! We welcome Pato to our team. I have known him for the past 20 years. As Chief Marketing Officer, he would steer Microtel and Paramount to become a superbrand in the tourism and hospitality industry."

With the Microtel resort opening in Boracay fast approaching, he admits that this project partnership is his latest baby. Through its success, Pato says, "We plan to strengthen the position of Microtel & Paramount as a top-of-mind brand in the hotel industry. This is a perfect match that is long overdue." Microtel resort opens in Boracay

With its island setting, the design of Microtel Boracay will harmonize with the beach ambiance particularly in its furnishings, landscape design and with the incorporation of a few modifications like small balconies and individual pocket gardens outside some of the rooms. The hotel will also have its own sewage treatment plant as part of Microtel’s commitment to preserve the environment.

The two-story hotel will offer double and suite accommodations, all with Chiropractic-approved beds and other features that Microtel standards are known for. But besides that, this first-in-the-chain "Microtel resort" will also have a swimming pool and restaurant on this prime beachfront location.

Microtel Suites and Inns Boracay’s guest rooms feature the individually controlled air-conditioning units, color TV with cable channels and remote control, multifunction phone with IDD and NDD and Internet-ready data ports. Their rooms are elegantly furnished with built-in desk and furniture, beddings that meet the American Chiropractic Association standards and relaxing window seating. Each room has its own full-sized bathroom with hot and cold water and all safety issues are covered with our fully automated fire safety system and electronic key access to all rooms. Your stay comes with complimentary continental breakfast.

Austrian National Day
October 25, 2006
By Gerry Geronimo

Austria once again is in the local news as its embassy in Manila fetes its nationals and friends on the occasion of its National Day. Still fresh in memory is the well-heralded and welcomed visit last month of Herbert Stepic, chief executive of Raiffeisen International Bank-Holding AG (Raiffeisen International) and deputy general manager of Raiffeisen Zentralbank Osterreich AG. RZB is Austria’s third largest bank and Raiffeisen International is a major player in Eastern European banking.

At noon of Sept. 21, Stepic spoke before the Austrian Business Consulting group at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Makati. The event was organized by Dr. Walter Hoefle, Austria’s Commercial Counsellor. Stepic was also honored in the evening with a cocktail reception hosted by Export and Industry Bank, headed by Ben Castillo, at the Manila Polo Club.

How Oct. 26 became Austria’s National Day is similar to how July 4 was once known as our Independence Day. When World War II ended, Austria was occupied by the four Allied Powers who each had a sector to themselves. Somehow, the Austrians were able to convince them to permit the democratic election of their national government, though the Allies still had to consent to every piece of legislation and political act. Negotiations to end the occupation came with the signing of the Austrian State Treaty of May 15, 1955 which took effect on July 27 of that year. With the treaty came Austria’s pledge of permanent neutrality and the departure of the occupational troops. Oct. 26, 1955 was the day after the last foreign soldier left Austrian territory.

Though most of what Filipinos know of Austria is limited to Julie Andrew’s “Sound of Music,” Austria’s proprietary claim to music goes beyond Hollywood productions. It is the homeland of the great composers Brahms, Haydn, Mahler, Mozart, Schubert and the Strausses—both father and son. My personal favorite, German-born Ludwig van Beethoven, lived in Vienna for most of his adult life.

A number of Filipino heroes have visited Austria. I have space to mention just a couple. Jose Rizal, together with Maximo Viola, arrived in Vienna on May 20, 1887 and stayed at the Hotel Metropole. They toured the city, including the Museum, for three days, during the last of which Rizal was interviewed by a Mr. Alder of the Estra Blatt, a local newspaper. He and Viola then proceeded to Salzburg on the 25th, leaving for Munich the following day.

The other is Gabriel Ureta who I also consider a hero assuming the story as told to Thielma Leonor “Boots” Tirol, daughter of Leon Hontiveros Tirol, and published in the Austrian-Philippine Web site, is true.

The story starts sometime in the 300 years of Spanish rule in a river somewhere in Aklan, either in Tangalan or Ibajay, where no bridge spanned to cross it. One day, a Spanish official wanted to get to the other side without getting wet, and, thus, as was the practice of the colonizers, conscripted Gabriel Ureta to carry him across on his shoulders. As Filipino and Spaniard reached mid-point, Gabriel threw off the load on his shoulders and, scampering to the other side, fled Aklan. He headed for a pier, stowed away in a boat and eventually ended up a seaman calling on various ports. He got to Austria, and fell in love with the place, particularly the mountains of Tirol state, in the west near Salzburg.

Tirol state considers itself the heart of the Alps and is a paradise for hikers, mountain climbers and skiers: 710 of its innumerable mountain peaks are over 3,000 meters high. The highest peak in Tirol is the Wildspitze (3,774 meters) in the Oetz Valley Alps. Tirol also shares the Grossglockner which at 3,797 meters is the highest mountain in Austria.

At Tirol, Gabriel stayed, no one can say how long, but, like all Filipinos, eventually longed to go back to his country. If he came home carrying his family name Ureta, he was a dead man. So, he changed “Ureta” to “Tirol” after the mountains he loved so much and returned a free man.

No one bothers to relate what happened to the Spanish official, but his fate and Gabriel Tirol’s return undetected, in my view, explains why Spain lost the revolution to the Filipinos.

The present trade between Austria and the Philippines reflects the relative economic development of the two countries. The main exports of Austria to the Philippines are machinery, particularly special machinery and electronic parts, followed by semi-finished goods such as pulp and paper, refractories and chemicals, specifically pharmaceutical products and its raw materials. On the other hand, the bulk of Philippine exports to Austria is composed mainly of electronic goods and devices, data processing machines and equipment as well as garments.

Austrian companies also invest here. As mentioned in an earlier item (Sept. 20, The Trust Guru, The Manila Standard Today), RZB holds, approximately, 10 percent of the equity of Export and Industry Bank. Further, I had the opportunity of assisting in the organization and governance of Tann Philippines Inc. for Tann-Papier, a member of Trierenberg Holdings based in Traun, Austria. This group has a unit that once upon a time sourced the paper for the Philippine peso. I am certain there are many other Austria-linked companies out there.

But the affinity of both countries lies not so much in economics but in culture. Presently, there are a number of organizations on both sides of the globe dedicated to enhancing the relations between Austrians and Filipinos. The advisability of speaking only from personal knowledge, however, limits me to the Philippine-Austrian Cultural Society Inc.

PACS was founded on May 24, 1962 by Filipinos, Lourdes Borja, Artemio Moral, Dr. Antonio Ganiza, Eufemia Evangelista, Dr. Jose Dualan, Greg Feliciano, Helen Mendoza, and Austrians, Gryde, Kurt Kessler, Rev. Karl Steinmetz, Dr. Eugene Stransky, Susanne Winternitz. Its main goal is to promote, between the Philippines and Austria, the exchange of cultural information and sharing of knowledge in the various fields of the arts, such as music, theater, architecture, history as well as the appreciation of each other’s colorful ethnic heritage. Over the years, it has assisted in the exchange of Austrian and Filipino artists and in supporting the local performances of the traveling Vienna Boys Choir, not to mention celebrating in a Filipino way a monthly Heurigen, the Austrian tasting festival at the first wine harvest.

This year’s officers include Washington Sycip as chairman of the board and Stella Gonzalez as president. Hermann Fidler and Gunter Rametsteiner are vice presidents and Hans-Jurgen Springer is the treasurer. He is assisted by director Ramon Lacson who is in charge of fundraising. Philippine media is attended to by Lynne Ocampo and Dr. Walter Hoefle connects PACS internationally.

To Austria and the Philippines, Prost! and Mabuhay!

Kalibo court junks town’s suit vs capitol
October 25 2006
By Jun Ariolo N. Aguirre Manila Standard Today

BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan—The Kalibo Regional Trial Court has refused to intervene in the implementation of a provincial ordinance that would limit the traffic of boats between the village of Caticlan in Malay, Aklan, and this island.

Kalibo RTC Judge Virgilio Luna Paman of Branch 7 junked the lawsuit filed by Malay Mayor Ciceron Cawaling against the provincial government, represented by Gov. Carlito Marquez, seeking an injunction against the implementation of the ordinance.

Cawaling asked the court to annul and declare the “one-entry, one-exit” ordinance as illegal allegedly because it was unconstitutional and violated the Local Government Code.

Cawaling argued that the ordinance usurped the authority and disregarded the corporate powers of the municipality aside from duplicating the assessment of fees and impeding the free flow of commerce.

In junking the suit, Paman said the court refuses to be drawn into the turf issues between Malay and the province. He described the petition to be unnecessary, improper, or at least premature under the circumstance.

“When a municipality questions the official acts of the province on legal and social issues, it must protest and seek redress initially within the sphere of the government branch where it belongs, in this case, the executive branch, to the province, then to the Department of Interior and Local Government or the Department of Justice on legal issues,” said Paman.

Paman further ruled that the interest of the town is adverse or conflicting with the interest of the province since the questioned ordinance is for public welfare and predicated on the province’s exercise of administrative functions.

Paman said the petition is not proper for declaratory relief “because validity is not determinative of the construction of definite rights, status and other relations commonly expressed in written instructions but of issues on protection of tourism assets, security and internal revenue allotments.”

BORACAY Paradise island clean-up starts
October 24, 2006
Manila Bullentin

THE Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) has started cleaning up operations on the world famous white beach on Boracay Island recently after the recent issuance of Executive Order No. 156 Series of 2006 dated Oct. 5, directing owners of business establishments in Boracay Island to clear illegal structures and individual landscaping and beautification of the front beach area facing their respective properties and establishments.

Cong. Florencio Miraflores, Malay Mayor Ciceron Cawaling and representatives from the Provincial government of Aklan witnessed the Boracay front beach clearing operations.

Pursuant to its mandate, the PTA under general manager and CEO Robert Dean S. Barbers is enforcing Malay Municipal Ordinances 96-97 and 2001-131, regulating the construction of all buildings and other structures in the island. Upon the creation of a task force, the PTA has determined that 69 establishments had illegal structures that were encroaching on the "NO BUILD ZONE."

Some of the establishments constructed permanent structures despite only being granted temporary permits stipulating the use of only light materials but have already extended their facilities towards, and nearer the waterline.

"Boracay is a magnet for both foreign and domestic tourists with arrivals increasing by more than 15 percent every year, generating almost R10 billion in receipts for the stakeholders in the island. Sustainable development is the key to maintaining and preserving the beauty and environment of the island," said Barbers.

The area to be cleared covers 25 meters from established markers and this encompasses the "NO BUILD AREA" declared in Malay Municipal Ordinances 96-97 and 2001-131. "The ordinances were issued as early as 1996. It’s been a long time coming and we must uphold the rule of law. Since the law says that all structures within the NO BUILD ZONE must be set back 25 meters, this designated area must be cleared," added Barbers.

Asked about his reaction on the clearing operations, an expat resort owner who requested anonymity said, "We’d like Boracay to retain its natural appeal and unhampered view of the white beach. I guess it only took the strong political will of someone like GM Barbers to put the development of the island in the right perspective. We’ve cleared our frontage already as they asked and we will support him all the way."

With its famous white sands and bustling everyday all night parties, the heavy influx of tourists was accompanied by relentless rapid developments on Boracay’s front beach that now mars its natural beauty. The front beach is now littered with structures used as stockyards for construction waste and debris.

"One of the reasons I chose to settle here was because of the wide front beach. Now the resorts are almost at the waterline. It’s good that they’re clearing the area so everybody has a chance to really enjoy Boracay’s white beach," commented a Filipino resort owner.

Asked about the status of the water supply and sewerage on the island, Barbers replied, "We are convincing the owners of the establishments to stop using ground water and have themselves connected to the sewerage system of the Boracay Waterworks and Sewerage System so we had a big billboard installed at the municipal plaza listing the violators. We are also doing the drainage system to help secure the island’s water supply."

The PTA is currently undertaking the construction of a drainage system, having already established a water and sewerage system on the island. The Boracay Waterworks and Sewerage System (BWSS) supplies clean water to residences, resorts as well as other institutions.

"It is good that the stores are pushed back so that there is more beach to enjoy. With the new sewerage and drainage system, Boracay would be better than ever," commented a Korean national. Koreans are consistently in the top three nationalities visiting Boracay along with the North Americans and the Japanese.

PTA starts demolition of illegal Boracay structures
October 23, 2006
By Jerome Aning - Inquirer

THE Philippine Tourism Authority has started clearing operations on Boracay Island over the weekend following President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s order to remove illegal structures from the island and to beautify its white-sand beaches.

PTA general manager Robert Dean Barbers said the task force he created found that 69 establishments had illegal structures that were encroaching on the “no-build zone” delineated by the municipal government of Malay, which has political jurisdiction over Boracay.

Some of the establishments, Barbers recounted, constructed permanent structures despite being granted only temporary permits that clearly stipulated the use of light materials. Others have also extended their facilities toward and nearer the water line.

According to him, the area to be cleared covers 25 meters from established markers and this encompasses the “no-build zone” declared in Malay Municipal Ordinances 96-97 and 2001-131.

“The ordinances were issued as early as 1996. It’s been a long time coming and we must uphold the rule of law [which says] that all structures within the ‘no-build zone’ must be set back 25 meters and that this designated area must be cleared,” the tourism official said.

Aklan Representative Florencio Miraflores, Malay Mayor Ciceron Cawaling and representatives from the provincial government of Aklan witnessed the start of the demolition over the weekend.

The PTA chief said the clearing operations were welcomed by other resort owners, as well as foreign tourists who complained about Boracay’s shrinking shoreline.

Barbers noted that the continuing influx of tourists has led many resorts and other firms to encroach on the beaches. Prior to the clearing operations, the beachfront had been littered with structures used as stockyards for construction waste and debris.

With the unhampered view of the beach restored by the enforcement of the “no-build zone,” Boracay’s natural beauty would now be maintained, he added.

Asked about the status of PTA’s controversial unified water supply and sewerage plan for the island, Barbers replied, “We are appealing to the conscience of the owners of the establishments to stop using ground water and have themselves connected to the sewerage system of the Boracay Waterworks and Sewerage System.”

Barbers said PTA erected a big billboard at the municipal plaza listing violators, including those who refuse to subscribe to the BWSS.

BWSS supplies water to Boracay’s resorts, residences and other institutions and manages the island’s drainage system.

Boracay remains a magnet for foreign and domestic tourists with arrivals increasing by more than 15 percent yearly, generating almost P10 billion in receipts for stakeholders on the island.

1,597 pass CPA licensure exam
October 24, 2006
Manila Bullentin

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced yesterday that 1,597 out of 6,499 passed the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Licensure Examination given by the Board of Accountancy in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Legazpi this month.

The Top 10 examinees are:

Gillianne Roselle Cruz Say, University of the Philippines Diliman, 91.86 percent; Irine Sabaduquia Te, Mindanao State University Iligan Institute of Technology, 91.43; Alvin Salvatierra Caballero, Polytechnic University of the Philippines Main Sta. Mesa, 91; Karina Oreta Bonifacio, University of the Philippines Diliman, and Smith Copeng Lim, University of Sto. Tomas, 90.14; Ana Melissa Cudia Estrada, Polytechnic University of the Philippines Main Sta. Mesa, and Jonathan Abrigana Quiroga, Cebu Institute of Technology, 89.86;

Rex Bangngayon Banggawan, University of Baguio, Zeus Vernon Bandolin Millan, University of Baguio, and Jameswil Ahuday Yadang, Lyceum of the Philippines, 89.71; Germee Ronirose Nabor Abesamis, University of the Philippines Diliman, Mark Adrian Sexon Asinas, University of the Philippines Diliman, Christy Iledan Cezar, Garcia College of Technology Kalibo, Aklan, Diana Rose Uy Cue, University of Sto. Tomas, Jessamyn Ulep Domingo, University of Sto. Tomas, and Jayson Pangilinan Lopez, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 89.57; Merliza Flores Cruz, University of the Philippines Diliman, 89.14; Sheryll Siy Chua, University of San Carlos, Joselito Arguesa Japson, University of the Cordilleras Baguio City, and Arlene Zulueta Loreja, Polytechnic University of the Philippines Main Sta. Mesa, 89; and Rosalynne Ladores Sanchez, University of the Philippines Diliman, 88.86.

FFS on Kabsaka technology produce 27 farmers
October 23, 2006
The News Today

Twenty-seven farmers graduated from the Farmers Field School (FFS) on Kabsaka Technology in Brgy. Mandong, Batan, Aklan recently. The FFS is educating our farmers right in the field where the learning process takes place.

Mr. Edgar Baylon, Regional Hybrid Rice Coordinator of the Department of Agriculture said that the Kabsaka technology is introduced again in order to increase production, attain self sufficiency in rice. He stressed that the technology is applicable in rainfed areas where one can have two croppings of rice and corn, mungbean or other crops for the third cropping.

Mr. Delano Tefora, Provincial Agriculturist of Aklan, encouraged the farmer-graduates to share what they have learned in the farmers field school with those who have not attended. Mr. Tefora said that Brgy. Mandong is one of the cluster areas in Aklan under the Ginintuang Masaganang Ani (GMA) rice program.

"KABSAKA" or Kabusugan sa Kaumahan was introduced in the 80's in the province of Iloilo. Through kabsaka technology, Iloilo became self-sufficient in rice and supplies other provinces. The kabsaka technology promotes biological control of pests under the integrated pest management (IPM).

The clustering approach under the GMA -- Rice program strengthens the farmers organizations in the barangays and linking them with other organizations in the municipality, province or up to the national level. Each cluster has interventions from the Department of Agriculture such as: seeds, fertilizer, credit, technical know-how, irrigation, mechanization, post-production and market.

A cluster is established in a contiguous area of 50 hectares. Initially, clustering will be done in areas served by the National Irrigation System (NIS) with existing irrigators' association. The technicians of the local government units are trained to provide social preparation in cluster formation. Through cluster, the farmers and agricultural technicians will work together in identifying problems in their communities.

The clustering approach enables the farmers to have assured technical assistance, greater access to credit and high quality seeds; fertilizer discount, assured water supply, access to post harvest facility and minimal market risk.

The province of Aklan has ten clusters, Antique -- three clusters, Guimaras -- four clusters, Capiz -- nine clusters and Iloilo has fifteen clusters. (Theresa A. Gerafil/RAFID 6)

Bunye cites PAPI for helping local gov'ts promote their economic potentials
October 23, 2006
PIA Press Release

Quezon City (23 October) -- Press Secretary Ignacio R. Bunye has hailed the holding of a nationwide media summit in Kalibo and Boracy Island in Aklan on Oct. 26-29 on the theme, "The Role of the Press in Spotlighting Investment Opportunities in Aklan."

"It is very encouraging to note that the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) is taking its media summit to Aklan province," Secretary Bunye said in a message to the national media organization headed by veteran journalist Juan P. Dayang.

Bunye, who is concurrently Presidential Spokesperson, said it is a kind of media activity that will no doubt render positive results.

"Apparently, PAPI has seen the need for media practitioners to refocus their attention to the economy instead of wasting time entertaining negative political stories that serve no purposes but divide our people," he said.

"I congratulate PAPI for this innovative summit, which aims to highlight the power of the press for development," Bunye said, adding that the summit theme is closely aligned with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s goal to reinvigorate the country’s economy.

Bunye said PAPI can rest assured the government will always support this kind of media activity. He also expressed the hope that it can be replicated in many regions.

Some 200 mediamen—publishers, editors, broadcasters, commentators, columnists, reporters, writers, book authors, information officers, college editors and other communicators -- are attending the four-day press meet.

The media summit is featuring a seminar on ethics, libel, broadcasting; a professional development seminar on strategic communication management for information offices and public relations practitioners; a forum on investment opportunities; and a tour of Boracay Island and other areas of historic Aklan.

MassKara trade fair opens at Robinsons Place today
October 19, 2006
Visayan Daily Star

The Multi-Sectoral Alliance for Development Negros, in partnership with Peace and Equity Foundation Visayas Inc., will open its four-day Masskara Festival Trade Fair today, 5 p.m., at the Fountain Area of Robinsons Place Bacolod, a press release from the organizers said.

The event, which will run until October 22, is dubbed "Aton ni Day! Aton ni To!" and the theme is, "Dagyaw sang Kauswagan: Produkto nga Organiko kag Tumandok."

Exhibits and booths will open at 10 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.

The trade fair aims to promote the organic and indigenous products of nine selected PEF-assisted people's organizations, the press release said.

It will feature clay dolls products of the Munyikang Putik group in Negros Occidental as well as MUAD's organic farm products and practices.

The trade fair will also showcase woven abaca products from Aklan and Dumaguete City, bariw bags and houseware from Antique, gifts and preserved butterflies from Marinduque and organic products such as essential oil, the press release said. Other activities will include demonstration of clay doll's artwork, musical show of Ghandarva, and puppet show by Animo Puppet Theatre.

Invited to attend the opening program are officials of Negros Occidental and Bacolod City, Department of Trade and Industry, Agricultural Credit and Policy Council and Peace and Equity Foundation in Manila, the press release added.

Malinaonons avail of gov't help through KALAHI
October 18, 2006
by VG Villanueva - PIA Press Release

San Roque, Malinao, Aklan (18 October) -- Residents of this barangay including those of neighboring Usman and Tigpalas in Malinao, Aklan got the chance to avail of various government services and programs right at their doorsteps when the Kalahi Community Day and Hinun-anon Sa Barangay was held there October 17.

The activity was held in commemoration of the National Week for Overcoming Poverty with focus on the theme "Crossing Over the Threshold: Focusing on Priorities Against Poverty up to 2010."

As with other KALAHI activities already held in several Aklan municipalities earlier, national government agencies represented by regional and provincial directors converged in the area to present their respective programs and services and to hear concerns and needs of barangay folks that they could assist or aid.

KALAHI Focal Person Zenaida Mabugat, who gave the overview of the activity, said the KALAHI Community Day is one opportunity for the people in barangays to talk, ask and present their problems to different government agencies.

"In holding the activity, we also think of the efforts of the people to fight poverty. The government too, is trying its best to help alleviate poverty," said Mabugat.

Mabugat also said that Barangay San Roque, together with neighboring barangays Tigpalas and Usman is the target area under the KALAHI in conflict mode, a commitment made by the RPA-ABB-RPMP - specifically identified by the latter for the activity resulting from the ongoing peace talk with the government.

For his part, Aklan Governor Florencio T. Miraflores thanked the RPA-ABB-RPMP for helping maintain peace and order in the province through its on-going peace agreement with the government "which is one reason why the tourism industry in Aklan as well as the business activities thrived for the past five years because we are peaceful in Aklan."

An important and much-in demand component of the Community Day was the Medical Mission, manned by the medical team from the AFP as well as government doctors and medical staff from the provincial and municipal health offices in Aklan which was mobbed by barangay residents for free medical consultation and to avail of free medicines.

Residents of San Roque, Usman and Tigpalas also availed from KALAHI-member offices of the following: Certificates of Land Ownership Awards (CLOAs) from DAR; land titles from the DENR: chairs and reading materials from DepEd; medical equipment from DOH; reading materials for barangay library from DILG; family packs from DSWD; medicines used for medical mission from PCSO; health cards from Philhealth, and vegetable seeds from DA.

RDs of DTI and DOST, Dominic Abad and Zinnia Teruel respectively, got the most queries from barangay folks engaged in home-based industries like abaca bags and slipper-making. Queries from farmers were also made about the possibility of fashioning a mini rice terraces in the area for use of landless farmers.

Malinao is the second KALAHI area in conflict in Aklan, the other one being the town of Ibajay in the western side of Aklan.

KALAHI stands for Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan, a poverty alleviation program of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

When you are angling for value for your money
October 18, 2006
By Vangie Baga-Reyes - Inquirer

FOUR years into the business and Somethin’ Fishy remains a “seafood authority,” constantly offering a variety of fresh catch of the day cooked in a way only true-blue anglers know.

“I believe people go to Somethin’ Fishy for the seafood dishes we offer because they know the owners are anglers who more or less know how they want their seafood to be done and served,” says Emma Rose Policarpio, president of Somethin’ Fishy and award-winning angler who competes both locally and internationally.

“Our customers have tried and enjoyed our swordfish, which is better than blue marlin. When they are served this fish (grilled, sizzling, fried with creamy gravy or skewered), they are assured that is the best way to cook it.”

Through the years, Somethin’ Fishy’s menu has always consisted primarily of fish—grilled, fried, steamed, marinated, sautéed or stewed. You can opt for tuna, salmon, catfish, swordfish, plapla, lapu-lapu, eel, mackerel or bangus.

But clams, prawns, squids, crabs, sea urchins and other seafood are also available, served sizzling, cooked in oil or coconut milk, or prepared as sushi or sashimi.

Bestsellers are the Inihaw na Pusit, Pinais na Alimasag, Crispy Buntot ng Tuna, Grilled Salmon Belly and Fresh Oysters by the Bucket.

New additions Fresh Oysters and Pinais na Alimasag became instant hits with families and barkadas.

“Every quarter we try to change the menu and come up with new dishes, including promos like combo meals,” says Jom Policarpio, the restaurant’s vice president and operations manager.

Combo platter

Somethin’ Fishy has come up with the Seafood Combo Platter promo for diners who want different kinds of seafood without burning a hole in their pocket.

The platter, actually an oversized, sturdy, made-to-order colored tray, has enough for four to five persons. With this combo platter, says Policarpio, they give diners their favorite seafoods and value for their money.

A Seafood Platter, priced at P769, has Swordfish Steak, Grilled Salmon Belly, Pinais na Alimasag, Fresh Oysters, inihaw na Pusit, Halabos na Hipon, Ensaladang Talong with Bagoong and Seafood Rice.

Fresh Catch of the Day Platter consists of Crispy Hipon, Fresh Oysters, Grilled Pusit and Plapla, Chili Alimasag, Ensaladang Talong, Steamed Okra and Bagoong Rice for P609.

Despite the name, Somethin’ Fishy also has something for non-seafood lovers, the All-Meat Platter that includes Chicken-pork Adobo, Inihaw na Liempo, Chicken Satay, Pork Barbecue Ribs, Lechon Kawali, Kangkong in Sambal Sauce, Steamed Okra and Garlic rice, for P499.

Seafood and Meat Platter offers Adobong Pusit, Crispy Crablets, Inihaw na Plapla, Liempo, Pork Barbecue Ribs, Chicken Satay, Steamed Okra, Kangkong in Sambal Sauce and Garlic Rice for P519.

“Every month we check the fast-moving items and, based on that, we came up with the combination platter. We also conducted a survey on what [people] wanted on a platter,” says Policarpio.

Most of the seafood come from General Santos City, while fresh oysters are from Aklan.

Party place

Somethin’ Fishy is also ideal as venue for parties and corporate events. The two-story restaurant was recently renovated to make it easier to transform it into a party place.

The sprawling ground floor, decorated with stuffed sea creatures donated by game-fishing friends, was repainted. Tables and chairs were reupholstered and the color of tables and chairs was changed from brown to white.

The second floor, which used to have fishes hanging from the ceiling giving it the look of a huge aquarium, was made more formal with elegant curtains to accommodate themed parties, including weddings, debuts, baptism and corporate events. It can hold at least 400 guests.

Somethin’ Fishy is in Eastwood City, Libis, QC.

Gordon to Abalos: ‘Computerize or resign’
October 18, 2006
By Juliet Labog-Javellana - Inquirer

SENATOR Richard Gordon called for the resignation of Commission on Elections Chair Benjamin Abalos Wednesday for his resistance to implementing the partial automation of the 2007 elections.

Gordon said that despite the approval of the automation bill in the Senate last October 12, and much earlier in the House, Abalos has been "laying the predicate'' for its non-implementation by proclaiming there is no more time even for partial automation.

He said he was chagrined at Abalos' cavalier position on the automation, which he attributed to the Comelec chief’s allegedly favoring the voided automated computer machines of the Mega Pacific Consortium.

"If they can't take the heat, let them get out of the kitchen. It's time to resign,'' said Gordon, chair of the Senate committee on constitutional amendments.

But Gordon said Abalos has no choice but to implement poll automation, which is expected to be enacted into law next month after the two chambers reconcile differences in their versions of the proposed law.

The Senate bill seeks the use of computers in 12 pilot areas -- not six as earlier reported -- in the 2007 election, consisting of two provinces and two highly urbanized cities each in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The House version provides automation in some parts of the National Capital Region and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Gordon identified the possible pilot areas as Olongapo and Makati cities, Zambales and Laguna provinces in Luzon; Cebu and Bacolod cities and Negros and Aklan provinces in the Visayas; and Zamboanga and Cagayan de Oro cities and Basilan and Bukidnon in Mindanao.

Gordon said the partial automation in these areas would require the purchase of 60,000 computers for the 30,000 precincts. He said the computers could be given to schools after the elections.

The senator said the partial automation is estimated to cost P1.4 billion, which he said is provided for in the 2006 budget of the Comelec. Full and nationwide automation is to be implemented in 2010.

Comelec Aklan prepares for May '07 elections
October 17, 2006
by VG Villanueva - PIA Press Release

Kalibo, Aklan (17 October) -- The provincial office of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) here is now preparing for the conduct of the May 2007 elections.

One of Comelec Aklan's activities in preparation for this is its on-going and continuous registration of voters, which, according to Lorena Tumbagahan, Comelec Kalibo Head and concurrently the Officer-in-Charge of Provincial Comelec Office, would end on Dec. 31, 2006.

Tumbagahan revealed this information at a press conference with the local media here as she emphasized that "the media is considered as partners of Comelec as far as election activities are concerned."

Tumbagahan appealed for the help of the local media in disseminating the information on the termination of voters' registration on December 31 as she revealed that the province has only one data capturing machine and the Comelec office might be deluged with last-minute registrants on the last day.

"We can only accommodate a limited number of registrants in a day and the applicants are to be subjected to demographic and biorhythmic capturing process which is different and time-consuming unlike the old procedure. We also call on our young people, those who are now 18 years old including those who would be turning 18 in time for the May 14, 2007 elections to also register at Comelec now," Tumbagahan said.

"We encourage our young people to register now so they would be able to exercise their constitutional right to help the government by voting and selecting the right candidates to govern our country," she said.

In the press conference, Tumbagahan distributed copies of Resolution No. 7707 which contains the Calendar of Activities and periods of prohibited acts in connection with the May 14, 2007 synchronized national and local elections.

Election period for next year's electoral exercise starts Jan. 14 and will end on June 13, 2007.

Western Visayas free from terror attack: maritime chief
October 17, 2006
By Lory Ann B. Bilbao – Sun Star Iloilo

REGIONAL Maritime Office Chief Cornelio Salinas assured that there is no existing terror threat in the region despite the numerous bombings in the southern part of the country.

Regardless of the report, the Maritime Industry, in cooperation with various stakeholders, is ready and on alert, said Salinas.

He added that they are coordinating with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Bureau of Customs, Coast Guard, and local police.

The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), said Salinas, deployed personnel along the domestic piers for inter-island and Manila-Iloilo-Mindanao route.

In coordination with the Coast Guard, the Maritime Command deployed sea marshals on board vessels in order to prevent terror attacks like bombing and the entry and movement of bomb making materials.

With the aid of the Local Government Unit here, which has readied its "force multipliers" and the security measures exhausted by private entities, Western Visayas remains safe from terror attacks.

On reports that Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan is under threat of a possible terror attack, Salinas said Task Force Boracay has been installed in the area and closely monitors the place for suspicious activities.