Sept. 24 - 30, 2012 Issue

‘Bistado ka na!’

Mr. Bistado submits counter-affidavit

By Ralph John Mijares with reports from Edalyn Acta

“Long live the badings (sic)!” This is how Salvador Capulot, Jr. or “Mr. Bistado” ended one of his two counter-affidavits stated on NPS Dkt. No. VI-16-INV-12H-00292 in response to Celino’s libel complaint against him.

Use of Government Vehicle

He confirmed Mayor Angel Alan Celino’s claims of him and a city councillor bringing a government vehicle to an Iloilo gay bar called Paraiso and committing a sexual act there.

Capulot said that he based his claims on an article written by Glenn Vidal Beup, a local TV personality and writer of The News Today on January 4 this year called, “Display of Arrogance”.

Said article read (in part): “A couple of months ago, a van owned by the City Government of Roxas was spotted by a reliable source along Bolilao right across SM City Iloilo.”

“The Toyota van was easily identified since it bears a signage that it is owned by the City Government of Roxas.”

Further, “top city official together with a city councillor and some of their trusted aides went inside the bar for a drinking spree.”

Sources Cited

Capulot cited another article by Beup entitled “Embarrassing Situation” in which he confirms that it was Celino and the same city councilor who went to the bar. According to Beup as per Annex 2 of Capulot’s affidavit, “I hope...the two city officials who figured out in my last week’s column will recognize their mistake and must avoid using a government vehicle while conducting an unofficial business.”

Capulot also cited that two witnesses who don’t preferred anonymity backed his allegation. They were patrons of Paraiso Entertainment Bar on or about December 15, 2011, or soon thereafter at around 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. of the next day, their waiter “whispered to us that seated in the table in front of us are VIPs from Roxas City, no other than the Mayor of Roxas City himself and a mestizo companion both of whom were also intensely watching the sexy macho dancers.”

“We were able to take a good look at the Mayor of Roxas City, whom we later came to know as Angel Alan Celino, and whom we can identify should we see him again.”, they added.

However, the radio-blocktimer denied having said in his program that, “Galuhod-luhod gid si Mayor pang-os tubo” (The Mayor was kneeling down while biting the sugarcane).

According to him, what he said was “Ang tubo gusto ko ipasiguro sa inyo didto sa Negros Occidental gina pang-os na ya” (I assure you that in Negros Occidental sugarcane is chewed/munched at).

Capulot also believed that Celino violated Section 3, Rule 112 or the Revised Rules on Criminal Procedures because for him, the complaint-affidavit and that of their witnesses “were not subscribed and/or sworn to before a city/provincial prosecutor of Roxas City/Capiz despite their availability.”

Capulot also quoted from Sigmund Freud in the latter’s “Letter to a Mother of a Homosexual” that “homosexuality is nothing to be ashamed of, it is not a vice, not degradation, neither is it an illness, and many great men such as Plato, Michael Angelo, and Leonardo da Vinci were homosexuals.” Capulot added that being one is not a crime.

As per NPS Dkt. No. VI-16-INV-12H-00293, Capulot said that his claims of Celino being absent in his workplace on Thursdays and Fridays came from “numerous text messages” to him—which he only “echoed in my Mr. Bistado program.” Also, his claim that Celino was arrested for jaywalking during his days as the city’s vice-mayor came from a traffic aide from Iloilo City.

The former RGMA Iloilo commentator said that based on his complaint-affidavit, Celino said, “I do not recall being arrested for jaywalking.” Capulot said that “he (Celino) indeed was arrested, but he just cannot remember.”

Celino and TDR’s alleged “link” to cara y cruz den

Capulot claims that Celino is “...isa sa mga protektor ni Cong. Tony Del Rosario sa iya tumbuan sa kilid sang BIR Building” (one of the protectors of Cong. Tony Del Rosario’s gambling den beside the BIR Building), he “never categorically stated that Mayor Angel Alan Celino is one of the protectors of Congressman Tony Del Rosario.”

Capulot knew of the existence of a gambling den after he received “numerous text messages” on July 22. He claimed that after his radio program, he went to Bilbao Street, between Magallanes and McKinley Streets and heard “the sounds of coins hitting the cemented floor after being toss up (sic) as well as the resounding cheers from the bettors, and I was also able to see the traffic of people in that small place where the gambling activities are being conducted.”

Capulot claimed that what he said was—Angel, bistado ka na! Amo ini kung nga-a naglala ini nga sahi sang kriminalidad nga ginpanglawag naton diri sa syudad sang Roxas bangod, mga kaabyanan...once ining mga criminal nga ini, maka-income gani, maka-raket sang kwarta sa mga pagpanghold-up, pagpangawat, tanan-tanan, dira nila ginadiretso sa tumbu-an. Ginapabay-an man ina ni Mayor Angel Alan Celino. Nga-a? Kay tungod may ara man sang pagpahanugot sa Congressman sang syudad sang Roxas.”(You’re busted, Angel! As we have said, these acts of lawlessness worsened in Roxas City because, my friends, these criminals bring their loot to that gambling den whatever they gained from their holdups, robberies, and other activities. Mayor Angel Alan Celino allows them to happen. Why? Because it has the consent of the congressman of the City of Roxas.”)

Capulot said that his radio program “shall serve as an avenue to expose the anomalies, abuses, and misdeeds committed by public officials as well as commend the good deeds of performing and deserving ones as example for the public good.”

Pasiplat’ highlights Capiz’s tourism

By Alex Lumaque

More than 80 photographs depicting Capiz tourism potentials and cultural events were launched as Pasiplat, a photo exhibit at the Provincial Capitol in Roxas City.

Pasiplat, a Hiligaynon term for glimpse, is staged by the Capiz Provincial Press Bureau (CPPB) in view of the 2012 Provincial Tourism Week (PTW) celebration.

“This exhibit is a glimpse of the past tourism and cultural activities captured thru the lens of the CPPB,” said Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Alphonsus Tesoro.

The pictures which are creatively displayed on bulletin boards are stylishly illuminated for the better appreciation of viewers.

The exhibit likewise features photos of local government officials in action in their programs and projects. The exhibit is complemented by a Festival Costume Showcase featuring the native costumes of municipalities of the province.

“Through the exhibit, people will also be given an idea of the different development projects of the province in line with Capiz Gov. Victor A. Tanco’sLabi sa Tanan Ang Tawo battlecry,” said CPPB head Edward Basilonia.

The exhibit will also be an opportunity for the CPPB to showcase its multimedia equipments and its well-trained manpower that boosts the information program of the province.

On Sept. 27, the exhibit was transferred to Dinggoy Roxas Civic Center (DRCC) to form part of the 1st Tourism Expo that run until Sept. 29.

13 nabbed for cara y cruz

By Ralph John Mijares

In a raid conducted by the members of the Roxas City Philippine National Police (PNP) led P/Supt. Salvador Dagoon, Jr., 13 men were arrested for playing tumbo, or cara y cruz on Sept. 25.

Said gamblers were caught around 4:25 p.m. inside an empty room near the Bureau of Internal Revenue office on Bilbao Street.

Arrested were Nelson Falcis, 50 and Guamie Agana, 42 while those seen in the vicinity were Richard Ariaga, 81; Pedro Aligno, 71; Richard Tagpuno, 33; Danilo Tenorio, 36; Richard Bacas, 40; Loreto Calanugan, Jr., 32; Arnel Sonico, 28; Roque De Felipe, 69; Donito Almodien, 35; Albert Barrera, 43; and Roger Mahilum, 36.

According to the blotter, three pieces of old .25 centavo coins and P600 were confiscated from Falcis while P312 cash was seized from Agana.

Police said Falcis was seen tossing those three coins while Agana was the betting his cash.

Except for Falcis and Agana, the bystanders were released after the investigation.

In an interview, Dagoon said they were tipped by a source which led them to launch the raid. The police chief added that it took a while for them to pinpoint the exact location of the gambling area.

At this writing, Dagoon said he does not know who operates the activities.

Driver faces raps over road mishap

ROXAS City—A driver from Balasan, Iloilo is facing charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide in relation to a vehicular accident in Sitio Libas, Brgy. San Esteban, Pilar, Capiz last week.

The charges will be filed against Rafil Dador, 27, before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office here, Senior Insp. Errol Quatche, Pilar police chief, said.

On Sept. 20, four people died when the L300 van driven by Dador rammed a motorcycle in the said area.

Police identified the fatalities as Rudy Villa, 27; his wife Ronilyn, 27; their two-month-old daughter, Robelyn; and his mother-in-law, Nelly Baclas, who were all aboard the motorcycle.

Dador was injured after his van collided into a truck parked along the road and lost control of his vehicle. He was observed to have been under the influence of liquor, Quatche said.

Dador is detained in the lockup cell of the Pilar police station.

The victims were earlier taken to the Pilar Rural Health Center but Ronilyn, Robelyn and Baclas died upon arrival.

Villa was transferred to the Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital here but also died upon arrival. Dador was brought to the Jose Colmenares Memorial Hospital in Brgy. Malbog, Balasan for treatment.

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Sept. 17 - 23, 2012 Issue

Fourth of May

Tanco, Cabillan, 11 cops face raps for ‘unlawful arrest, bribery, etc.’

By Edalyn Acta

ROXAS CITY—The Office of the Ombudsman has issued an order signed by Mary Antonette Yalao ordering Capiz Gov. Victor Tanco, Sr., Police Sen. Supt. Domingo Cabillan, and 11 members of the Capiz Police Provincial Office (CPPO)—to file their counter affidavits within 10 days for “unlawful arrest, bribery, corruption of public officials, and violation of R.A. 3019” under Case No. OMB-C-C-12-0329-G. And under Case No. OMB-C-A-12-0347-G, the same were also charged with “grave misconduct, abuse of authority and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.”

Aside from Tanco and Cabillan, the 11 members of the CPPO are: P/Insp. Dennis Sumaliling; P/Insp. Joel Cambi; SPO4 Jack Ochavo; PO3 Gary Diaz; PSI Alcer Monsera; SPO4 Wilfredo Venus, Jr.; SPO2 Rey Jason Gimeno; SPO2 Mark Garcia; SPO1 Rey Molas; PO3 Tomas Obligar, and PO2 Christopher Dinglasan.

Filing their case against the respondents at the Office of the Ombudsman Visayas in Cebu, the complainants Renato D. Lago, his wife Ofelia and his nephew Jerson Magallanes charged said respondents for “unlawful arrest, bribery, corruption of public officials, and violation of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act” on May 8, 2012.

On the day of the killing itself, both Lago and Magallanes were arrested by police officers Sumaliling and Cambi even without a warrant.

According to Cabillan, the two were arrested owing to the death of Mambusao Vice-Mayor Abel Martinez who was shot by a lone gunman in front of his house on May 4 this year.

Lago and Magallanes work for Kirskat Ventures, a company owned by contractor Leodegario Labao, Jr.

Cabillan said on the phone interview that he still yet to received the said letter. He added he is welling to face the case filed by the complainant against him.

Capiz lists 762 certified skilled workers

By Alex Lumaque

ROXAS CITY—A total of 762 assessed candidates passed the National TVET Competency Assessment and Certification (NATCAC) in Capiz from March 2011 to September this year.

However, this figure may increase as another NATCAC is scheduled in the province from October 15 to 26, said Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Capiz Public Information Officer Julie Baraquia.

“There are 400 NATCAC passers given last August and early this month,” she noted.

The successful candidates received a Certificate of Competency (COC) or National Certificate Level II from TESDA for their respective qualifications.

Certified tech-voc holders can use the COC in applying for jobs in fields that are highly in demand in the country or abroad.

NATCAC is aimed to increase the number of certified Filipino workers and TVET graduates in the TESDA national registry of skilled workers.

The assessment and certification is free and open to all graduating students and graduates of technical vocational courses, skilled workers, and returning overseas Filipino workers.

City brgys to be trained on emergency response

By Edalyn Acta and Felipe Celino

ROXAS City—The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) here this week launched a training program for emergency response in the city barangays.

According to Fire Insp. Kenneth Lester Gemotea, the Barangay Emergency Response Training (BERT) program consists of a series of trainings sought to provide knowledge on how to conduct rescue operations in times of emergencies and calamities.

Gemotea said the training will start on September 24–28 in Brgy. Baybay and will be replicated in Dumolog and Punta Cogon on October 1–5, Punta Cogon on October 8–12, and Culasi on October 15–19.

Led by BFP Region 6, able-bodied residents chosen by their barangay officials will be taught on rescue procedures like vehicular extraction, basic hose handling, wild hose recovery and maneuvering, basic rope techniques, and swift water rescue, among others.

According to Gemotea, the city government allocated P1.2 million and P800,000 worth of rescue equipment for BERT. Among the rescue equipment are firefighting tools, rescue cans, raincoats, flashlights, kern mantle ropes, first-aid kits, searchlights, pulleys, anchor plates, seat harnesses, spine boards, and cervical collars.

Gemotea, acting provincial fire marshal of Capiz, hopes that all the city’s 47 barangays could undergo BERT and that the program will be carried out in the province’s 16 towns.

LIGHT MY FIRE

Under the BERT program led by Fire Insp. Kenneth Lester Gemotea (far right, top photo), Roxas City barangay officials (far left, bottom photo) will be provided survival skills equipment and educated on emergency response skills.

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Sept. 10 -16, 2012 Issue

Good Governance

Capiz awarded Seal of Good Housekeeping

By Jemin Guillermo

"The Seal of Good Housekeeping is precious and prestigious - it is a recognition that every local government unit (LGU) hopes to achieve," Capiz Gov. Victor Tanco said during the turnover ceremonies of the Seal of Good Housekeeping marker to the provincial government of Capiz on Sept. 11 at the Capiz Provincial Capitol.

Led by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Director Evelyn Trompeta, the turnover of the seal marker to Gov. Tanco was also witnessed by Vice-Gov. Esteban Evan Contreras II, the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the department heads of the provincial government.

Tanco said that the Seal of Good Housekeeping is one of the best legacy programs to the LGUs by then DILG Sec. Jesse Robredo. "Everybody's involvement - from the lowest employee to the high-ranking provincial official - is needed in achieving the goal."

The government said that the next compoetitions will be more challenging - considering that the DILG secretary is now Mar Roxas, a Capiceño.

"Because of this award we received, many LGUs will be expecting much." According to Tanco they will sustain and maintain the principles of accountability and transparency in local governance that made the province win the award.

In the same ceremonies, Trompeta turned over to Pontevedra Mayor Esteban Jose Contreras the P1-million Performance Challenge Fund (PCF). The municipality was also cited the same award.

Trompeta said that the P7-million PCF for Capiz will already be released. According to Trompeta, DILG Region 6 released the PCF first to those provinces with higher poverty incidence.

Army enhances soldiers skills

By Jemin Guillermo

Military officers continue to undergo seminars to further enhance their capability in the delivery of basic governement services that will lead towards peace and security in the countryside.

Public Affairs Office Head Enrico Gil Ileto of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) said that their company commanders recently gathered for a three-day seminar and workshop to fine-tune operational details as well as evaluate their unit performance.

"The activity was also made to provide inputs on the updates on the enemy's tactics, set target goals and receive further guidance," he said, adding that the workshop was essential in the accomplishment of the force's mission.

Focusing on the nation's Internal Peace and Security Plan Bayanihan and the Army's Transformation Roadmap, the seminar workshop was attended mostly by young lieutenants and captains from the Infantry from other support units in Negros and Panay islands who serve as community development facilitators of partners agencies in the delivery of basic government services to the people.

3ID Commanding General Jose Mabanta, Jr. stressed that importance of enhancing the competency of military officers such as updated and adequate knowledge, skills and exceptional leadership, qualities and courage to face danger to protect the lives and properties of civilians.

For his part, Philippine Army Commanding General Emmanuel Bautista stressed the need for the military officers continuous improvement of skills, particularly in mission planning.

Among others, Bautista said that the troop leading procedure is what the Army needs to excel in even as it's what distinguishes them from other organization.

Tianchon family cries for justice

By Edalyn Acta

Roxas City - "Why did they have to kill my father? Was it his fault that the leaders of the Liberal Party (LP) considered him their family? Was it is his fault that he believed in the dreams of the LP in Capiz?

"Was it his fault that he is the Barangay Captain who's very close to the mayors in the second district? Why did they kill the protector and foundation of our family? I throw these questions to the killers and to the police."

These were the words of Kim Christian, son of Wilson Tianchon who was gunned down 6:30 A.M. of Sept. 8, 2012 inside his Bambooland Restaurant on Kilometer 1 here. Kim Christian said these statements in a press conference which the family called Sept. 13.

Marina Tianchon-Cruz, the sister of the victim, described her brother as the good provider and a lending hand to those who are in need. She said Wilson also gave inspiration to her son who suffered from kidney failure for two years and also convinced her to retire from her profession as teacher so she could take good care of her son. "I can never forget his words that he will do everything just to help my son recover from his ailment," Marina said. "What will happen to my son?" she added.

DEATH THREATS

According to Tianchon's brother Deogracias, 58, Sangguniang Bayan member of Dao, Capiz, Wilson told him on sept. 7 that he asked security assistance from the police since July this year because he had been receiving death threats. Since then, Wilson had three security guards, two from the PNP and serving as personnel body guard.

SB Member Tianchon said that the motive behind the killing of his brother was politically motivated precisely because of his closeness to the Del Rosario family here who is the leader of LP.

According to Supt. Salvador Dagoon, Jr., Roxas City police chief, two unidentified men onboard a motorcycle also went in to the Bambooland Restaurant. Tianchon was sitting at the cashier's table when a man shot him six times.

The Capiz police said that the triggerman went inside and ordered coffee. Half an hour later, he went to Tianchon, pulled out a near gun from his waist, and shot him.

The assassin is described as in early 30s, 5'5" tall, with brown complexion, and wearing shorts, white T-shirt, black jacket and a hat.

Dagoon said the barangay captain has been receiving death threats but did not report it to the police.

TASK FORCE WILSON TIANCHON FORMED

Chief Supt. Agrimero Cruz, director of the Police Regional Office 6, met with the Capiz police last week for a conference on the case. The police formed Task Force Wilson Tianchon to determine the mastermind behind the killing. Led by Capiz Police Provincial Director Domingo Cabillan, the TF will investigate the killing of Wilson Tianchon (not Tiangson, as earlier reported).

According to Cabillan, while they already have a composite sketch for the gunmen, they are considering other angles aside from its being politically motivated. They are also considering business motives. A known businessman in Capiz, Tianchon is engaged in supplying construction materials to Roxas City and other parts of the province.

REWARD FOR KILLERS' ARREST RAISED

To date, the Roxas City government has offered an additional P100,000 for any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects in killing Barangay Captain Wilson Tianchon of Bita, Dao town - raising the total cash reward to P200,000. The amount augmented the P100,000 bounty that the Capiz provincial government earlier offered.

last week, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan passed a resolution condemning the killing of Tianchon. Sponsored by Provincial Board Members Jonathan Besa, Jaime Magbanua and Clemente Firmalino Jr., preident of Liga ng mga Barangay Provincial Federation and ex-officio  member, resolution said that "Tianchon lost his life through lethal shots from unidentified, ill-conscientious gunner."

"In delivering the mandate bestowed unto him by his constituents as their barangay captain, he had bravely explored public office, transcending the inevitable challenges inherent thereon, yet unceasingly offered his commitment to service to the community whose welfare and development appeared to be his utmost intent and among his aspirations," it also said.

According to the same, the "cowardly assassination of Tianchon" is an "outright demonstration of quashing every Capiceño's righteous claim for safety and security in person and property - a highly heinous act of hostility, aggression and injustice, not only against public leaders, but the entire people of Capiz."

Further it said that the Provincial Board "shall lead in the resolute strong denouncement of any form of pointless oppression and ruthless brutality of similar nature in the province of Capiz for truth to prevail and justice be served."  (With reports from Felipe Celino)

Girl, 15, shot while watching show in Roxas

By Felipe Celino

ROXAS CITY - A 15 year old girl who was shot while watching a show at the People's Park in Brgy. Baybay here died on the night of sept. 16.

A bullet of a still unidentified caliber of firearm hit the face of Josefina Adrias while she and 10 of her teenaged friends were watching a show of a beer company in the morning of September 15.

The burst of gunfire sent people in the area scampering for safety, creating a commotion, police said.

Adrias was then sent to Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital and was confined in the hospital's Intensive Care Unit.

The girl was a resident of Sitio San Juan, Brgy. Baybay, and a daughter of a barangay kagawad.

Police recovered from the area a bullet-loaded .22 Magnum allegedly owned by a certain Jemar Ibes.

Policemen arrested Ibes, but the man strongly denied shooting the girl.

Two nights prior to the incident, bullets peppered the broadcast center of dyOW Bombo Radyo Roxas. The strafing happened at about 9 p.m., when the station was about to sign off, half an hour after anchorman JM Estornino finished his program, Sona Libre, said Joseph Silvias, the station manager.

Police saw gunshot marks on the wall at the entrance of star FM. They also recovered 11 empty shells and slug of a .9mm caliber pistol and a splinter.

A security guard of Paraiso KTV Bar, an establishment fronting the station, saw the suspects onboard a motorcycle.

He identified the back rider as the one who sprayed bullets on the radio station on Arnaldo Boulevard here.

A certain Daday also saw the two suspects, but could hardly describe their faces.

The witnesses were also unable to notice the plate number of the motorcycle.

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Sept. 3 - 9, 2012 Issue

Triple treat

Magallanes, Caberoy, Ipho named 2012 Csc awardees

By Edalyn Acta and Adam San Andres

“It’s the first time in history.” This is what Atty. Maria Lina Gonzaga, chief of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Capiz Field Officer, had to say of Dr. Editha L. Magallanes of the Capiz State University (CapSU), Dangal ng Bayan awardee; and the Capiz Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) and IPHO’s Pharmacist I Claire Caberoy, both Pagasa winners—all of whom were cited in the CSC’s search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees for 2012.

For the first time in the history of the province, Gonzaga said, the three nominees—Magallanes and Caberoy for the individual category and the Capiz IPHO for the group category—made it to the shortlist and eventually the final selection by CSC this year.

“Their records speak for themselves,” Gonzaga said, stressing that the actual accomplishments, innovations and sterling performance of the winners attest to their achievement so properly cited by the CSC.

According to Gonzaga, “we can really say that public servants in Capiz are really professional in the exercise of the jobs and are committed to provide high standard and exemplary performance in the effective and efficient delivery of their services to the people.”

Along with ten other individuals across the country, Dr. Editha L. Magallanes, president of the Capiz State University, a state-run university in the Province of Capiz, was named Dangal ng Bayan awardee for her “exemplary adherence to the norms of conduct and ethical behavior.” Magallanes was awarded a trophy designed and crafted by National Artist for Sculpture Napoleon Abueva and 200,000 pesos cash reward.

Then, “for their outstanding work performance and exceptional service to the government and the people,” the Capiz Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) and its very own employee, Mrs. Claire D. Caberoy, Pharmacist I clinched the Pag-asa Award in the same search conducted by the CSC.

For their innovation through the e-Inventory, a tool which has been used for effective monitoring and tool for effective drug management, the Capiz IPHO was cited under the Group Category; while Caberoy was named under the Individual Category.

Each of these winners was awarded golden medallions crafted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, plaques of recognition and 100,000 pesos cash reward.

Magallanes, Caberoy and the IPHO were conferred their awards by President Benigno Simeon Aquino in a testimonial dinner on Sept. 19, 2012 at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacañang Palace in Manila.

As regional finalists, the winners were also feted by the CSC Region 6 on Sept. 13, 2012 at the SM Activity Center in Mandurriao, Iloilo City. (With report from Jemin Guillermo)

CCTN-Capiz launched

By Virgilio Clavel

To communicate fervently and effectively the teachings and values of God to every home and nurture a community of believers, the Archdiocese of Capiz launched the CCTN-Capiz Sept. 8 in Balay Pari in Lawaan, Roxas City.

Managed by the Commission on Social Communications and Mass Media of the Archdiocese of Capiz in partnership with the Cebu Catholic Television Network (CCTN), the new TV-relay station is committed to “proclaim God’s love to every individual through quality programs and decent entertainment.”

CCTN’s program format is anchored on threefold function, patterned after Jesus and His Church mission, namely: the priestly proclamation of teachings of God’s values (kerygma); the prophetic witnessing, teaching and formation of Christian life in a community of believers (koinonia); and the kingly lifestyle in sharing with humankind the Christian’s selfless service in quest of sanctification (diakonia).

The CCTN-Capiz also aims to produce quality programs based on Gospel values through modern means of communication, to include, catechism on creed, commandments and sacraments, biblical reflections and commentaries.

Through the unique programming, CCTN-Capiz seeks to present programs promoting Marian devotion; offer selfless service in station operations; and instil a culture of Christian morality and spirituality through feature presentations.

CCTN-Capiz had its formal pilot airing on September 9 over Channel 47. For program schedule, please call Fr. Jose Arturo Emilio Arbatin, Chairman of the Commission on Social Communications and Mass Media, at 0908-897-1137.

Capiz tour operators to lure more tourists

By Alex Lumaque

ROXAS CITY—“We would like to invite prospective investors to invest in our local tourism industry and bring in more tourists to Roxas City and Capiz,” Capiz Tour Operators Association (CTOA) President Donnel San Antonio said.

San Antonio, general manager of the Tickets ‘n More Travel Agency, leads the new set of officers of the newly organized Capiz Tour Operators Association (CTOA) who will formally assume their respective positions in an oath-taking ceremony Sept. 27 at the Dinggoy Roxas Civic Center here. The induction ceremony will be in time for the opening of a tourism expo in line with the 2012 Provincial Tourism Week celebration.

The officers include Vicky Baes of San Mateo Travel and Tours, vice-president; Francisco Bellosillo, Jr. of Bellosillo Travel and Tours, secretary; Heidi Chiu of Ticket Time Travel and Tours, treasurer; Peter Magpayo of Panay River Tours, public relations officer (PRO); Carlos Ty of C&L Travel Agency, auditor; and Erwin Alba of Jonar Resources, business manager.

San Antonio added that “based on our interviews, one local tourist spends around P3,000 to P5,000 while every international visitor spends some 1,000 to 2,000 US dollars during a vacation anywhere in the province.” The tourists’ money is used to pay for local hotels, restaurants, tour operators and other tourism-related enterprises.

CTOA has also been instrumental in the operation of Roll-On Roll-Off (RORO) vessels plying the route of Culasi Port to Batangas City Port via Odiongan, Romblon beginning May this year.

The RoRo operation was also realized through the support of the local officials and a number of groups including the Capiz Halaran Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Roxas City Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Capiz Provincial Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council, the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Capiz Chapter and the Roxas City Investments and Promotion Center.

CTOA is also working to invite other airline and shipping companies to open new routes for the province.  

CSC anniv to showcase best practices in services delivery

By Jemin Guillermo
The best practices of the public offices in Capiz will be showcased this month.

Capiz Civil Service Director Maria Lina Gonzaga said that in line with the Philippine Civil Service’s 112th anniversary this month, national government agencies, state colleges and universities, government-owned and controlled corporations and local government units will host a Photo Exhibit showcasing the delivery of excellent public service.

Aside from photo exhibit, government offices with frontline services will also man One-Stop shops catering to the public especially in the processing of their documents such as securing of licenses. Public offices will display their Citizen’s Charter so that they public will be aware of the different services and the requirements and procedures in transacting business with concerned agencies.

In partnership with the Provincial Tourism Office, the exhibit and One-stop Shop will run from September 27 to 29 at the Dinggoy Roxas Civic Center while the monthlong anniversary celebration will be concluded with a Fun Run on September 29.

The Capiz Council of Human Resource Management Practitioners Capiz Chapter led by Jonny Dariagan of Capiz State University will lead the first Responsive, Accessible, Courteous and Effective (RACE) to Serve Fun Run. They will charge a registration fee of P100 for government employees and private individuals and P30 for students. Part of the proceeds will go to the Pamana Foundation supporting the education of the children of government employees who died in the line of duty.

Gonzaga invited public offices in Capiz to set up their own photo exhibits, display their Citizen’s Charter and provide their frontline services for the benefit of their respective employees and clients.

Themed “Kawani, Ikaw ay Isang Lingkod Bayani,” the CSC anniversary celebration seeks to promote, showcase and celebrate heroism in public service as well as highlight stories of triumph and sacrifices among the men and women in the government.

K of C new officers elected

By Bienvenido Cortes

The Roxas City Council No. 3691 of the Knights of Columbus announces its new set of council officers for fraternal year 2012–2013.

The following are the new officers—Resurreccion Laguda of Brgy. Tanza, Grand Knight; Manolito Basquez of Brgy. Dayao, Deputy Grand Knight; Sixto Dongon of Brgy. Lanot, Chancellor; and Msgr. Victor, Bendico, Rector of the Immaculate Conception Metropolitan Cathedral, Chaplain; and Bienvenido Cortes of Brgy. Punta Tabuk, Recorder.

Other officers elected were Reymundo Alovera of San Roque St., Financial Secretary; Narciso Heroza of Brgy. Banica, Treasurer; Manuel Cambe of Milibili, Advocate; Ronie Recto of Zamora St., Lecturer; Antonio Aniero of Burgos St., Warden; Maruel Luza, of Mabini St., Inside Guard; Richard Alovera of San Roque St., Trustee (One Year); Nicanor Alvaro of Roxas City, Trustee (Two Years); and Jose de Jose of Brgy. Tanque, Trustee (Three Years).

Grand Knight Laguda has been a member of good standing of the Council No. 3691. A retired elementary school teacher of the Department of Education in the schools division of Roxas City, He resides at Brgy. Tanza, Roxas City with his wife, Amparo Alaban-Laguda. They have five children, namely: Rexam, Fritzie, Mary Suzette, Rexie and Richie.

With more than 1.8 million members, the Knights of Columbus is the world’s largest Catholic lay organization that provides members and their families with volunteer opportunities in service to the Catholic Church, the community, families, and young people.

In 2010, the K of C at all levels raised and distributed millions of dollars to charity and rendered millions of hours of volunteer service.

3,263 helmets certified

By Alex Lumaque

To date, at least 3,263 helmets were marked with Philippine Standards (PS) or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Capiz in their ongoing verification and marking procedures on motorcycle helmets.

Since July 9, the Business Regulation and Consumer Welfare Division (BRCWD) have also verified 1,705 helmets of motorists who want to comply with the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.

“We want to serve more motorists and mark helmets with the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) markings,” BRCWD Head Angelita Colmo said.

In July, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has ordered the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to defer enforcement of the Helmet Act until Jan. 1, 2013 upon the request of DTI to give them more time to complete inspection of motorcycle headgears nationwide.

While the order was set for implementation Aug. 1, 2012, motorists violating the law were issued citation tickets and charged appropriate penalties.

Motorcycle drivers and back riders caught not wearing the standard protective motorcycle helmets will be fined P1,500.00 for the first offense; P3,000 for the second; P5,000 for the third and P10,000 and confiscation of the driver’s license for the fourth and succeeding offenses.

Contreras finishes governance course with flying colors

By Jemin Guillermo

Among the 58 vice-governors and four other staff enrolled in a special course on local governance and development at the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), Capiz Vice-Gov. Esteban Evan Contreras III graduated third honors, receiving a bronze medal during the graduation rites held Aug. 29, 2012 at the DAP Main Office in Ortigas, Pasig City.

Contreras was among the 58 vice-governors in the Philippines who have concluded the two and a half years of graduate course which sought to “upgrade their knowledge on improving the delivery of services to the public through effective and efficient local governance.”

Contreras’s graduate course, which ran for two and a half years, formed part of the scholarship program sponsored by Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile for the League of Vice-governors of the Philippines (LVGP).

Said scholarship grant for vice-governors was particularly implemented in coordination with the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP)’s Graduate School of Public and Development Management.

According to Contreras, the scholarship provided him with the knowledge and ideas in the operation of the local government units, particularly in instituting management styles.

“We are grateful to Senate President Enrile for sponsoring the scholarship grant for the Vice-Governors at DAP,” Contreras said.

The graduation ceremonies was led by DAP President Antonio Kalaw, Jr.; Senior Vice-President and Dean of the Graduate School of Public and Development Management Gloria Jumamil-Mercado; Managing Director Rodney Jagolino of the Institute of Public Management; and Magdalena L. Mercado, CESO IV.

In the same rites, Cagayan First District Rep. Juan Enrile, Jr. served as guest of honor while Senate Pres. Juan Ponce Enrile delivered an inspirational message.

Contreras, who is in his second term as vice-governor of Capiz, is the LVGP Regional Director for Western Visayas.

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Aug. 27 - Sept. 2, 2012 Issue

NO MATTER WHAT

LP pushes Tanco for gov; Celino for mayor

By Edalyn Acta

ROXAS CITY—In spite of the intrigues spread around or about them, first-term Mayor Angel Alan Celino and third-term Gov. Victor Tanco, Jr. will still be fielded by the Liberal Party (LP) in their reelection bids.

Earlier, critics of the two incumbent officials floated the idea that the LP led by newly appointed Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas II will replace Celino and Tanco as the LP’s official bets in Capiz for the city mayoral and gubernatorial posts in the 2013 elections.

Tanco was reportedly being convinced by the Roxases to run for the second district congressional race to end the political dominance of the Castros there.

But the incumbent governor and his supporters balked at the idea, preferring that Tanco instead complete his three terms.

The Roxases and Castros used to maintain ‘good political relationships’ until lately when they were seen to have a falling-out.

Former 2nd District Cong. Fredenil Castro and his wife, the incumbent 2nd District Rep. Baby Jane Castro, have been lording it over the politics in the second district.

After serving as the district’s congressman for three terms in 2007, Castro fielded his wife Baby Jane in the congressional race held in May 2010. Baby Jane won the post by a wide margin over LP’s official candidate, former PNP Chief Roberto Lastimoso.

The law limits the terms of office of local officials to only three terms but they are still allowed to run for the same post after observing an interval of at least one term.

In the 2013 elections, Fredenil is reportedly claiming his old post.

The LP in Capiz led by the Roxases have reportedly commissioned a survey on who among the LP incumbent officials stand the chance of beating Fredenil in case he runs for his old position.

In that survey, Tanco and Celino reportedly appeared as frontrunners for the governorship and the city mayoral race in 2013.

Two incumbent mayors in the second district, namely—Leslie Warren Benjamin and Sapian Mayor Arturo Orosco, Sr.—reportedly fared well in the survey as strong second district congressional candidates in the 2013 polls.

This means that either of them stands the chance of defeating Castro in the congressional contest.

Benjamin, the source said, would most likely accept the challenge depending on the assurance of support from the Roxases.

For his part, Orosco has stated on several occasions his preference to retire from politics. In the 2013 elections, the mayor, who is still eligible for another term, is reported giving way to his wife, Evangeline Oñas-Orosco, for the town’s mayorship. Orosco said that he would now have more time to attend to his fishpond business.

Orosco and Benjamin used to be political allies of Castro. But for still unknown reasons, they have shifted support to the Roxases by pledging allegiance to LP.

In the 2010 elections, Castro reportedly supported Capiz’s defeated gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn “Jocjoc” Bolante, who was edged out by Tanco by more than 60,000 votes, believed to be the widest margin in the history of Capiz.

In the past months, barangay captains in Roxas City including Alfredo Albaladejo of Tiza of LP and Manuel Aninang of Olotayan belonging to Ugyon Kita Capiz also signed a letter supporting Tanco’s governorship in the province.

‘I’m a Capiznon by birth’—Cong. Mitos Magsaysay

By Virgilio Clavel

Roxas City—“I have always been a Capiznon by birth and a Zambaleño by choice,” said Cong. Milagros “Mitos” Magsaysay of Zambales during a press meeting Aug 22 at the Kapis Mansion here.

Tracing her roots to the Habanas of Cuartero and the Arnaldo-Acuña clan of Roxas-Panay, Magsaysay took pride in her forefather namely, Gov. Antonio Habana, who served as the province’s chief executive from 1907 to 1909 and whose public record was spared from any tinge of corruption.

“Marahil, minana ko sa lolo ko ang hindi isang corrupt na kawani ng pamahalaan (Perhaps I have inherited from my grandfather this spirit of genuine service),” Magsaysay said.

On Magsaysay’s mother’s side, the Acuñas were as clean as the Habanas and “my political ancestors were men of dignity, holding public with sterling performance.”

“I also learned Lorenzo Arnaldo, also my uncle, was the best loved elected official ever—he lived a simple life, rejected no one who asked for help, and was the friend of the common folk. He died without a house of his own,” the Zambales congressman added.

“If the Zambaleños have a President Ramon Magsaysay, Roxas City also has its Lorenzo Arnaldo.”

“I am fortunate to be a part of both clans. I will not compromise the good names that I have with me now, by birth or by choice”, Magsaysay said.

Magsaysay said that her public service advocacies are education and health.

“Despite being denied the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) in 2011, public service to my constituents was not significantly affected. My friends and associates helped me compensate for the loss of PDAF. I realized that when people feel your sincerity in helping them, when they see your commitment to serve beyond the call of duty, they are not stingy in giving back their support for and trust to you. I defeated the Gordons twice—and that is a better proof.”

Magsaysay said she came to Capiz for three reasons, namely—to attend the Habana clan’s annual reunion; “to consult with my friends and kins,” and most important, to share with you good tidings that are not adequately covered by the press.

Considered as the vocal fiscalizer of the Aquino administration, Magsaysay recounted her encounter with Budget Sec. Florencio Abad. She said that when she asked Abad almost 12 times why the PDAF for her district was not released, the budget secretary said that “political realities” dictate that it is withheld.

On the financial aids from the PCSO, Magsaysay said that elected officials who do not belong to the Liberal Party have also been discriminated—which further explains Abad’s ‘political realities’ discourse.

Asked about the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program, Magsaysay said that the 2012 CCT budget of 39 billion pesos will be increased to 45 billion pesos as proposed and is almost sure to pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate. But half of this CCT budget appropriation will be borrowed from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

According to Magsaysay, many people do not know about this. The PCIJ study on the CCT indicated that almost Php4 billion was earmarked for training alone—while the national government presently has a debt of 5 trillion pesos. “As fiscalizer, I have to consult and talk to various sectors. It’s not because I am running for senator in 2013. It’s because people need to know what the government is doing.”

Magsaysay said that PNoy’s mindset is grotesquely off-tangent to realities. For example, the 2011 national budget for flood control was Php12 billion.

Aquino did not and would not release it because infrastructure projects are corruption projects. But in flood control, you have to dredge the river every year, if not regularly.

“I cannot understand how the President thinks and prioritizes things. Last year, he did not spend much. His purpose was to incur savings. So the GNP was quite low. In 2012, he caused the release of those accumulated savings, siyempre magso-shoot up ang GNP for extra cash infused in the economy. Kaya mataas ang GNP ngayon.

“Pero, the GNP rise is a calculated hoax—it is an increase without real growth. Walang real extra money value ang pumasok sa ekonomiya from outside source. It’s unlike the OFW dollar remittance. You will feel the money value coming real in the economy,” she said.

The solon also said that the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill is not PNoy’s priority. “The sad thing about this administration’s self-righteousness is the opposite of what is being cooked in Congress when some solons filed another bill to incorporate the provisions of Executive Order No. 464, the one used by the former administration to dodge compliance with transparency and accountability provisions of the Constitution. But before any document or information is released, there is a mandatory requirement of “subject to the approval of the president.”

Magsaysay also considered that the K to 12 education program innovation is “premature and lacks sense of priorities.” Deeming impossible the administration’s provision of 66,000 classrooms, Magsaysay wondered how 66,000 classrooms can be constructed in three years—when on record only a maximum of 12,000 classrooms can be constructed in a year.

Roxas City ranks 3rd in WV as child-friendly city

By Gerry Pagharion

This City ranked third in the region in the Presidential Award for Child-Friendly Cities and Municipalities, it was announced by Early Childhood Care and Development coordinator Cynthia Besana of the City Social Welfare and Development Office.

The third place ranking was considered a feat considering that this was the first time that Roxas City participated in the undertaking, Besana said.

Mayor Angel Alan B. Celino, who chairs the City Council for the Protection of Children, was pleased of the honor accorded the city. The mayor formed the council to give flesh to his program geared towards alleviating the plight of children.

It will be recalled that a six-man evaluation team headed by Marilyn T. Tumilba, Nutrition-Dietician IV from the Department of Health -6 Iloilo was in the City July 26,2012 to assess the City’s policies toward children and how it addresses the problems hounding them.

The evaluation proper through a video screening was held July 26 at the session hall of the Sangguniang Panlungsod. The team also surveyed on that day the so-called child friendly barangays , namely: IX, X, Banica, Tiza and Cogon.

According to Besana, Mayor Celino was very enthusiastic in participating in the undertaking in order that the children be given utmost priority in his administration.

Capiz Copra production hits record high

By Alex Lumaque

ROXAS CITY—A record-breaking 90 tons of copra were bought by the Capiz Small Coconut Farmers Marketing Cooperative (CASCOFAMCO) in July 2012 from the coconut farmers across the province of Capiz.

Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Capiz Manager Jeffrey Delos Reyes said that the record excludes copra traded with at least 33 local accredited copra buyers in the same period.

“Copra trading at CASCOFAMCO averages only about 30 to 40 tons every month,” he noted, stressing that the fine weather and continuing PCA – initiated coconut fertilization have contributed a lot in the local coconut production.

While PCA gears up for the second salt fertilization application this year, the PCA official said that some coconut farmers sell their copra at CASCOFAMCO as copra traders in the municipalities could not financially cope up with the supply of raw material for coconut-based products. Aside from copra, CASCOFAMCO also buys whole nuts at P3.00 each.

There are about 60,000 whole nuts at the oil mill in Brgy. Ondoy in Ivisan town, De los Reyes said. “The high supply of copra has put the average selling price of the product at P12.50 per kilogram.”

Based on PCA records, the average selling price of copra in Capiz reached P42 a kilo in January 2011 due to the shortage of coconut production brought about by the prolonged drought in summer of 2010.

Since then, an uptrend in the local coconut production has been observed until this month. The province has more than 32,000 coconut farmers.

Capiz archdiocese launches TV relay station

His holiness Pope Paul VI solemnly promulgated Inter Mirifica that cites the numerous technological discoveries in the contemporary era.

For the Pope, “the most important of these inventions are those media which, such as the press, movies, radio, television and the like can, of their very nature, reach and influence, not only individuals, but the very masses and the whole of human society, and thus can rightly be called the media of social communication.”

Driven by this exhortation, Capiz Arch. Jose F. Advincula Jr., D.D., heeded the challenge by putting up CCTN Capiz, a TV relay station that will bring the Good News of salvation to scores of homes in the archdiocese.

Serving as a relay station of the Cebu Catholic Television Network, CCTN Capiz as a Marian and Catholic broadcast station is committed to proclaim God’s love to every faithful through quality programs and decent entertainment, thereby cultivating a community of believers, and guiding the flock in Capiz toward sanctification.

According to Arch. Advincula, “CCTN Capiz will be our local Church’s modern pulpit of evangelization, our answer to the challenge of using mass media in a way that will ensure our own salvation and perfection and that of all mankind.”

However, this task “does not fall on our shoulders alone. The faithful, our target audience, also have a role to play in this noble endeavor. We are urged to do our share in the task of evangelization through mass media, as pointed out in Inter Mirifica. All the members of the Church should make a concerted effort to ensure that the means of communication are put up the service of the multiple forms of the apostolate without delay and as energetically as possible, where and when they are needed,” he added.

According to Rev. Jose Arturo Emilio O. Arbatin, chairman of the Commission on Social Communications and Mass Media, “CCTN Capiz programming lineup includes locally produced shows that will instill in the viewing public a culture of Christian morality and spiritually and promote social responsibilities and cultural awareness according the social doctrines of the Church.”

Among others, the shows to watch on CCTN Capiz include “Pagdayaw,” “Ang Pulong,” “Balaan,” “Pueblo Amante de Maria,” “Kalipay sa Ginuo,” “Credo,” “Viva Katesismo,” “Siete Dias,” “Church Alive,” as well as the daily praying of the Rosary and a weekly “Pro Populo Mass” beginning September 9, 2012 on Channel 47.

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