Aklan on the road to recovery, says governor

Kalibo, Aklan -- Two months after Typhoon Frank battered Aklan, Governor Carlito Marquez said the province is now on the road to recovery.

Governor Marquez issued this statement when he delivered a message at the Planning Workshop attended by members of Aklan Rehabilitation Task Force held recently at the Gov. Corazon Cabagnot Tourism and Training Center at Brgy. Old Buswang.

Governor Marquez also revealed that help still keeps pouring in for Aklan typhoon victims from government and non-government organizations like the Dios Mabalos Foundation and the International Red Cross.

"Last week, the province received P2 million donation from the province of Cebu through Governor Gwen Garcia", Gov. Marquez revealed.

The kind gestures, according to the governor, give the Aklanons feelings of satisfaction that many people and organizations are concerned for their welfare, however, he said the time has come to submit the province' detailed rehabilitation program, thus the holding of the planning workshop by the task force.

Governor Marquez said there is a need for a detailed rehabilitation workshop, in keeping with a bill filed in Congress by House representatives from Western Visayas seeking a P15 billion fund for Bangon Panay Rehabilitation Program.

"Aklan should be part of Panay's Rehabilitation, being the worst-hit among the island's provinces. Even during one of President Gloria Macapagal's Cabinet meeting, she acknowledged that Aklan province suffered the worst from Typhoon Frank", Governor Marquez told the task force members coming from the national, provincial and non-government organizations.

Because of Typhoon Frank's devastation in Aklan which caused strong winds to destroy houses and infrastructure in the province and also brought the deepest flood in Kalibo and Numancia leaving tons of mud in streets and homes, PGMA visited Aklan two days in a row on July 1 and 2 to distribute relief goods, confer with local officials and talk with typhoon victims.

Governor Marquez said the rehabilitation plan should focus more on the rehabilitation and dredging of Aklan River as well the drainage system of Kalibo.

Governor Marquez said that the calamity that hit Aklan also gave an opportunity for the province to help improve Kalibo's drainage system along national, provincial, municipal and barangay roads by having the chance to seek funds from the national government.

With tons of mud still present in the mountains of Libacao town, Governor Marquez said the province is planning to buy a river dredging equipment because rehabilitation of the river through dredging will be a continuing activity to protect residents of Kalibo and Numancia. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

DOH cites benefits of Botika ng Barangay to Aklanons

Kalibo, Aklan -- The presence of Botika ng Barangay (BnB) outlets found in almost all barangays in Aklan makes it possible to all Aklanons to have access to safe, effective, quality and affordable medicines 24 hours a day seven days a week.

What's more, barangay folk especially in remote areas experiencing stomachache, diarrhea, fever and other common ailments need not spend so much for fare to buy these medicines in town, nor should they wait for the following day to look for medicines if they become ill at night, because the answer to their needs is right in their communities.

These are just some of the benefits and advantages cited by the Department of Health (DOH) here being brought to the people in the countryside by the Botika ng Barangay.

The Botika ng Barangay is a priority project of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo through the DOH.

"There are 200 BnBs in Aklan now. These are located in barangays in the province divided into the Eastern, Southwestern and Northwestern Aklan clusters, funded by the DOH. These BnBs have helped the barangay folks a lot. Even in the dead of the night, they can get medicines for their ailments. Besides, operators of BnBs can also earn, so this project is not only beneficial to the health and well-being of the people, it is also an opportunity of earning an income," said Dr.Myrtle Pelayo, Provincial DOH Representative in Aklan.

Dr. Pelayo said there is a big possibility that there will be more additional BnBs in Aklan soon because many LGUs are still applying.

Under the program, the DOH gives each BnB in the barangay P25,000 worth of medicines. The barangay's counterpart would be a structure for the outlet, and an operator who would be trained by the DOH.

When stocks are already low, the operator will buy medicines from the proceeds at designated Interlocal Healthzone Pharmacies, to sustain the supply of the BnB and to keep the operation active.

Dr. Elepoldo Magpusao, Cluster Head of Eastern Aklan Cluster and in charge of orienting LGUs on the merits of operating BnBs said that to ensure the sustainability of the outlets, the DOH makes "surprise' inspections in barangays.

"To compensate operators of BnBs, a mark up of 30% in the prices of over-the counter medicines is made. The 10% will go to the operator, another 10% is used for operations like buying notebooks and ballpens for recording purposes, and the 10% is used for savings as additional amount to purchase another batch of medicines," said Dr. Magpusao.

Dr. Magpusao said there are operators who earn much from manning the BnBs, especially in towns where there are a small number of drugstores or there are no drugstores at all.

The DOH here believes that sustaining the BnBs with the active help of local government units will bring about a healthier populace at a lesser cost. The BnBs are also an indirect assistance of the government in easing the burden brought about by the high cost of living especially for those who have limited income and low-paying jobs in Aklan barangays. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Aklan government workers happy over 10% salary increase

Kalibo, Aklan -- Government workers here expressed happiness over the news that they will be getting a 10% increase in their salaries starting next month.

The 10% increase, according to government workers here will help them a lot in cushioning the impact of the increase in prices of basic goods and services caused by the increase in prices of crude oil and rice in the world market.

Covered by the increase are civilian personnel of National Government Agencies (NGAs) including state universities and colleges, military and uniformed personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and uniformed personnel under the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine Coast Guard and National Mapping and Resource Information Authority, Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) and Local Government Units.

The granting of 10% salary increase for LGUs, however, is subject to the availability of local government funds as stated in Executive Order No. 719 ordering compensation adjustments for government personnel, signed May 1 of this year by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo

In Executive Order No. 719, President Arroyo stated that the salaries and base pay of civilian and military/uniformed personnel, respectively, must be raised to address the gap in compensation between the private and public sectors for the government to attract and retain competent public servants.

"An efficient and effective civil service is crucial to the continuous development of our country", PGMA said in the EO.

The EO also revealed that the two recent compensation adjustments for government personnel effective July 1, 2006 and July 1, 2007, which accorded priority to those at the sub-professional and lower professional levels in view of limited funds, have partly uplifted their economic well-being.

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) had been directed to implement the latest compensation adjustments effective July 1, 2008. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Government trying its best to help people through subsidies, Aklan solon says

Kalibo, Aklan – The government is trying to help the people who are most affected by price increases in commodities and services caused by crude oil price increase, according to Aklan Rep. Florencio T. Miraflores.

Rep. Miraflores said these subsidies come in the form of P500 pesos given by the government for lifeline users of electricity whose consumption is a maximum of 100 kilowatt hour a month; and affordable and accessible rice from the National Food Authority.

The Aklan solon issued this statement over a local radio program here on his weekly report of his activities in Congress as well as his updates on the different developmental projects brought to the province through his representation.

Miraflores said the giving of power subsidies has started in Manila and for those in the provinces, there is already an agreement between the National Electrification Administration (NEA) and electric cooperatives to give subsidies to poor consumers.

"The mechanics are now being finalized – if the people will have to line up just like what they are doing in Manila, or just deduct it from their forthcoming electric bill," Congressman Miraflores said.

The Aklan solon conceded that the subsidies now being given by the government are not enough, but he said these could help a lot.

"The government is doing its best to come up with long-term programs for rice sufficiency, and is now on a very delicate balancing act in trying to help the people and how to sustain the programs. The increase in the prices of crude oil which in turn affect the prices of goods and services is beyond our control, and even the economies of big nations like the U.S and more prosperous Asia countries are already affected," Miraflores said.

The subsidy being given by the government to lifeline users of electricity comes from the benefits derived from the implementation of the expanded value added tax (EVAT), specifically from the 12 percent VAT on petroleum products, through a program recently launched by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo – the "Pantawid Kuryente: Katas ng VAT". (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Aklan organizes poverty reduction action team

Kalibo, Aklan -- A team to help address Aklan's concerns and issues on poverty as well as to assist in the province' poverty reduction programs has been organized in Aklan.

The organization, called the Local Poverty Reduction Action Team (LPRAT) of the province of Aklan was formed by Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez through Executive Order No. 10 Series of 2008.

The team will take charge of the preparation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of provincial poverty alleviation plans and investment programs of Aklan including the formulation of policy and recommendations, as well as to integrate poverty reduction plans and programs of local government units special bodies (provincial, municipal, barangay), line agencies, state universities and colleges, government-owned and controlled corporations into the provincial poverty reduction plan.

Governor Marquez organized LPRAT anchoring on MC No. 33 dated Nov. 28, 2002 signed by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo institutionalizing the Kapit-Bisig Laban Sa Kahirapan (KALAHI) as the government's program for poverty reduction.

The Governor's EO No. 10 stressed that winning the war against poverty entails an energized bureaucracy, and an empowered and highly participative civil society and business sector working together adhering to continuous consensus-building processes and KALAHI has been adopted as the embodiment of the government's poverty reduction initiatives.

The EO also cited that Section 2 of EO No. 569 issued by the Office of the President on Sept. 26, 2006 defining the role of the Regional KALAHI Convergence Groups in the Comprehensive Peace Process and Providing Funds for the Purpose has stated that the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace process (OPAPP), in coordination with the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), shall extend technical, capacity-building and mobilization support to RKCGs in the exercise of its functions.

Governor Marquez heads LPRAT as Chairperson. Composing the technical committee are Engr. Roder Esto of the PPDO, Elma Malbas of PSWDO, Dr. Gervase Radislao of OPVET, Lilian Rey of PCO, Dr. Emma Cortes, PHO; Mr. William Castillio, OPA; Ms. Roselle Ruiz, EEDD; PS/Supt. Benigno B. Durana Jr., PNP; Arturo Teodosio, PPO; Mr. Manuelito Delegencia, BAS; Dr. Myrtle Pelayo, DOH; Engr. Roberto I. Cabigas, DPWH; Engr. Victory M. Fernandez, PEO; Mr. Jairus M.Lachica, DOST; Ms. Ermelinda p. Pollentes, DTI; Atty. Daniel Y. Martelino, DAR; Mr. Pablito G. Gemarino, NFA; Engr. Felix R. Francisco, NIA; Mr. Mae Guanco, BFAR; Mr. Baltazar Gerardo and Mr. Raul Lorilla, DENR, Dr. Victorina Laroza, DepEd; Mr. Victorio S. Pagapulan, DILG; Mr. Edwin Villanueva, TESDA; Ms. Phoebe Quisoy, PIA; Mr. Blas Solidum, NSO, Dr. Benny Palma, ASU; and Mr. Chito Peralta, AKELCO.

As an offshoot of LPRAT organization, a Forum on Poverty Statistics and Planning Workshop will be held on June 26 at the Aklan Training and Tourism Center which will be attended by the committee.

Governor Marquez said the provincial government has invited the National Statistical Coordination Board and the National Statistics Office to present the result of the 2006 Family income and Expenditures Survey (FIES) and the 2006 Poverty Estimation.

"The activity aims to come up with a holistic program that will address the poverty situation in the province. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Aklan watershed rehab project chosen as national model

Kalibo, Aklan -- The rehabilitation project involving the Panakuyan River Watershed in Ibajay, Aklan was chosen as the country's model in the management and development of watersheds, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) here.

Derlito Rico, Environment Management Specialist (EMS) of DENR-Aklan said the rehabilitation of the Panakuyan Watershed will definitely start this year, which will be spearheaded by the DENR and the communities in the area in Ibajay composed of seven barangays for the portion in Aklan and seven barangays also for the portion in Pandan, Antique, led by DENR-Antique with the residents of seven barangays.

The rehabilitation and development of Panakuyan Watershed is being prioritized by the DENR and the local government unit of Ibajay through the barangays so enough water will be generated by the river to serve the irrigation needs of farmers as well as the water needs of the residents.

Rico said DENR-Manila was impressed during the characterization phase of the watershed and decided to make the Panakuyan Watershed Management and Development Project a pilot one in the country.

Rico said activities involving the rehabilitation of the watershed depend on the actual situation of the area.

"If some areas are barren, full reforestation will be needed. If denuded, there is also a need to plant trees and assist in the natural regeneration," Rico said.

By natural regeneration, Rico said indigenous species are aided to grow naturally. The DENR is also planning to put up a rattan plantation in the area as a livelihood component of the project. Besides rattan, DENR will also be planting agriculture crops and forestry species in the area.

Presently, the people of Barangays Monlaque, Aparicio, Malindog and nearby barangays in Ibajay are already into nursery operation raising indigenous seedlings for planting in the Panakuyan Watershed.

The DENR said these people were already organized to work on the project soon under a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and have started by raising seedlings in nurseries and later - planting and protecting the area.

Besides the rehabilitation of Panakuyan Watershed, DENR is also zeroing in on the rehabilitation and protection of Nabaoy River in Malay, Aklan.

Nabaoy River supplies the water needs of Boracay Island and its reforestation and rehabilitation is also being prioritized by the DENR. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Kalibo mayor's Independence Day message: instill humility, respect

Kalibo, Aklan – Being independent means we are free to argue and exchange ideas but in the end, still be able to sit down together to work with humility and respect for each other, according to Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo in a message he delivered right after the flag-raising ceremony at the Pastrana Park today in observance of the 110^th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence.

Mayor Raymar Rebaldo also said the celebration of Independence Day should be lived daily by public servants by serving those who need help anytime, even if this means staying several minutes past regular working hours so constituents could go home happy and satisfied with the service obtained from the municipal office.

"We should not refuse to serve them or tell them to just come back the following day, because these people might have come from far places and would find it hard and costly to return. Besides, the next day, we might have other tasks to do," Mayor Rebaldo said.

Mayor Rebaldo also took the opportunity to thank all sectors in Kalibo for heeding the memorandum from the Office of the President requesting display of the Philippine Flag in their establishments, saying this act brought patriotism back to everybody.

After Mayor Rebaldo's message, floral offerings were rendered to the monuments of Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio and the Kalibo Heroes Memorial Shrine by Kalibo municipal and barangay officials, followed by Vice Mayor Nilda Tambong's word's of thanks.

The presentation of Bugna Ag Bugae it Akean: 19 Martires it Akean coloring book held at the Hernani's Mix and Match followed after the flag-raising ceremony.

Author of the coloring book is Kalibo Sangguniang Bayan Member Emmanuel Soviet Russia De La Cruz, great grandson of one of Aklan's 19 Martyrs, Roman Aguirre.

According to Mayor Rebaldo, the coloring books will be distributed to Day Care pupils in Kalibo, so they will have an idea about Aklan's local heroes who offered their lives so the next generation could enjoy independence. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Thousands of Aklan Day Care kids benefit from Food-for School program

Kalibo, Aklan -- A total of 8, 818 Day Care pupils in Aklan's 14 municipalities benefited from the government's Food-for School Program.

National Food Authority (NFA) – Aklan Information Officer II Judith T. Tindog said these Day Care children availed of 1 kilo each of NFA rice for seven days just this month. A total of 1,235 bags of rice were delivered directly by the NFA for this purpose to the municipalities' day care centers except the towns of Kalibo, Numancia and Malay.

Yesterday, June 12, Independence Day, Tindog said their team went to Libacao town to deliver the day care kids' share of NFA rice.

Tindog revealed that presently, NFA-Aklan has a total of 20,545 bags of imported rice in its warehouse. It also has some 9,003 bags of palay sourced from Aklan farmers during the recent harvest season.

If the demand for NFA rice in Aklan is based on the current daily sales of 278 bags per day, Tindog said the food agency's rice supply could last for 95 days.

The NFA also assured that the government rice imported from Vietnam being sold in Aklan is still 18.25 per kilo. NFA rice now sold in the market is packed at one kilo per plastic bag so consumers will find it easy to buy the commodity.

Presently, a consumer can buy a maximum of five or three kilos of rice depending on its supply in the market. A government employee, on the other hand, is allowed to buy 25 kilograms of rice per month.

Several municipalities in the province, including the capital town of Kalibo, have Institutionalized Bigasan ni Pangulong Gloria in public markets being operated by groups, so constituents in the respective municipalities will have easy access to the government rice, according to the NFA.

In the market outlets as well as in communities through the Tindahan Natin, operators are being constantly reminded by NFA to place price tags on their rice, and to be prepared always as there are roving Palengke Watchers from the government who monitor the sale of rice in the markets.

"The government already imposes the maximum penalties to those found violating the laws concerning the sale of government rice," Tindog stressed. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Aklanons to get land patents as Independence Day gift from DENR

Kalibo, Aklan – This year's Independence Day celebration could be the best one for 129 Aklanons for they will receive each a gift which could free them from poverty's bondage.

The gifts, according to Merlita Ninang, Land Management Specialist (LMS) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) here, will come in the form of land patents which these people will receive on June 12, Independence Day during the respective programs of three Aklan municipalities – Altavas, Banga and Numancia.

Ninang said 72 land patents will be distributed in Altavas, 42 in Banga and 15 in Numancia. DENR has actually 230 land patents for distribution, but Ninang said that as of Friday last week, only these three towns committed to hold an Independence Day program, so only residents from these municipalities will get their patents tomorrow.

So that DENR officials will be able to attend simultaneously the programs of the three municipalities, Ninang said there will be two groups – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Raul Lorilla and his group will attend the program in Numancia, while the group of Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO) Baltazar Gerardo will attend the programs in Banga and Altavas.

Ninang said the distribution of land patents is a nationwide commitment of the DENR as directed by Secretary Lito Atienza in observance of the 110^th Independence Day celebration, anchored on the theme "Independence from the Bondage of Poverty Through Tenure Security."

This year's Independence Day celebration theme, on the other hand, is "Republika Tungo Sa Kalayaan at Kaunlaran.

Meanwhile,in Manila, the Arroyo administration and the private sector, through the Inter-agency Coordinating Committee for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (ICC-MSME) are working in tandem to offer an array of kabuhayan services to interested individuals or groups during the 3-day Independence Day celebration, from June 10-12, at the Luneta.

With the liberating theme, "Go Negosyo! KABUHAYAN: KALAYAAN SA KAHIRAPAN," these kabuhayan services, which include entrepreneurship advisory, financing, training, product development, and marketing aim to encourage more people, especially the poor, to become entrepreneurs and actively participate in the country's overall economic development.

Presidential Management Staff (PMS) Secretary Cerge Remonde, the Cabinet Oversight Official for MSME Development and Chair of the ICC-MSME, said several government agencies with MSME-related services, together with the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE) led by Presidential Consultant on Entrepreneurship, Joey Concepcion III, will man the seven "Go Negosyo" booths at the Luneta to ensure that people can avail of these kabuhayan services.

"Especially now that we are celebrating our 110^th Independence Day, we want more Filipinos to become entrepreneurs who will eventually bring jobs and income to their families and communities and help in liberating the country's poorest from the clutches of poverty," Remonde said. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Kalibo town sets activities for Independence Day celebration

Kalibo, Aklan -- The Ati-atihan town of Kalibo will be holding a number of simple but significant activities on June 12 to celebrate the country's 110^th Independence Day.

In his letter-invitation to various government offices here, Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo said activities to be held June 12 include a Thanksgiving Mass at the Kalibo Cathedral, Flag Raising Ceremony at the Pastrana Park, Coloring Book launching featuring Aklan's 19 Martyrs at Hernani's Mix and Match, and a film showing of the "Rizal" movie in the evening at Pastrana Park.

To be led by Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo, the Flag Raising Ceremony will also be attended by other local officials and Kalibo Municipal Employees.

Terence Toriano, Administrative Officer II and Information Officer-Designate, said Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores and Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez were also invited by Mayor Rebaldo to grace the activity.

The flag-raising activity will be led by Mayor Rebaldo and Vice Mayor Nilda B. Tambong while the Panunumpa Sa Watawat will be led by P/Supt. Arnold P. Ardiente. Mayor Rebaldo will also deliver a message, floral offerings will be conducted at the Kalibo Heroes Memorial Shrine, Gat Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacion Monuments, while Vice Mayor Tambong will give the words of thanks.

The coloring book presentation dubbed Bugna ag Bugae it Akean XIX Martyrs It Akean will follow after the program.

Messages will be delivered by Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo and Ms. Mary Ann S. Lopez of DepEd-Aklan.

The coloring book is authored by Kalibo Sangguniang Bayan Member Emmanuel Soviet Russia De La Cruz, who is a descendant of one of Aklan's 19 martyrs, Roman Aguirre.

At the Provincial Capitol, a flag-raising ceremony will also be held in observance of Independence Day.

Asst. Provincial Administrator Rey Matorres said Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez has notified through a memorandum all department heads and their personnel to attend the flag raising ceremony at 8:00 o'clock in the morning on June 12 in front of the Provincial Capitol Building. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

DAR not a failure in Aklan – PARO

Banga, Aklan -- For twenty years, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) gave the province of Aklan some P220 million worth of projects in the form of trainings, bridge construction and farm to market roads – proving that throughout its existence helping farmers and other agricultural sectors, it was not a failure in this province.

In his welcome remarks at the 20^th Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) anniversary celebration at the Aklan State University (ASU) Conference Hall here, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Atty. Daniel Y. Martelino also said that for twenty years, DAR was in the forefront of agricultural development in Aklan.

"When the Department of Agriculture was devolved, nobody took care of the farmers but DAR", PARO Martelino said, in defense of his agency which some sectors blame for the country's food production shortage.

Martelino said that in fact, it was the Provincial Agrarian Reform Committee (PARCOM) that passed a resolution asking the President to strengthen the Department of Agriculture.

In Aklan, Martelino said some 1,200 hectares of land still need to be distributed under CARP, even as the program is supposed to end today, June 10.

Although some lawmakers favor CARP's extension, Atty. Martelino said some also said that the program could be extended but would be focused on support services already and not on land distribution, which he said would also be fine enough.

Atty Martelino claimed that one of the biggest support services DAR has gifted Aklanons with was the construction of Timbaban Bridge in Madalag. He also took pride in DAR's role in building the "Road to Aparicio", an upland barangay in Ibajay, Aklan, and the road to Tag-osip, Buruanga, which contributed much to the positive change in the economic status of residents in the area.

Aklan's lone representative to Congress, Rep. Florencio T. Miraflores, who was supposed to grace the celebration, expressed earlier that he favors CARP Extension.

PARO Martelino said Rep. Miraflores was in Congress instead attending the session to help work for the extension of CARP.

He expressed his gratitude to Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores and Governor Carlito Marquez for being the top allies of CARP in Aklan.

Governor Marquez, who was present, expressed optimism that CARP will be extended for another five years, and urged those present, composed of DAR employees, Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs)/awardees, Diosdado Macapagal Sholarship Program Scholars and the local media to think positive and look forward to its extension.

Gov. Marquez also commended CARP for complementing Aklan's twin economic program for development – agriculture and tourism.

During the celebration, DAR also awarded plaques and tokens to Land Tenure Improvement Performers, Program Beneficiary Performers, Most Outstanding Agrarian Reform Beneficiary, Pres. Diosdado Macapagal Agrarian Scholars, certificates of appreciation to media partners, and tokens and certificates to its ten retirees. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

PRESIDENTIAL DRIVE THRU - President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on a drive thru along Ibajay's new bridge right after the marker unveiling. With her in the vehicle are (from left) DPWH Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, UK Ambassador Peter Beckingham, Ibajay Mayor Maria Lourdes Miraflores and Aklan Rep. Florencio T. Miraflores. (PIA)

PGMA being given arrival honors upon landing at the Kalibo Airport recently during her Presidential Visit by officers and men of the 47th IB Philippine Army. (PIA)

Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo (left) shakes hands with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo upon her arrival at the Kalibo Airport during her recent visit as Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez and Rep. Florencio T. Miraflores (partly hidden) look on. (PIA)

New Ibajay bridge to serve as gateway from Boracay to Panay –PGMA

Ibajay, Aklan -- The new Ibajay bridge which was inaugurated today by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will serve as a gateway from Boracay Island to Panay.

"Ibajay Bridge is going to be a key to development of Panay. Boracay Island is still the favorite tourist destination of the Philippines," PGMA told the audience who witnessed the inauguration, composed of Aklan officials led by Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores and Governor Carlito Marquez, municipal mayors and representatives; Ibajay local officials led by Mayor Lulu Miralores, barangay officials and residents.

"This new bridge took two years to build, and costs over P200 million for both civil works and steel bridging material. Through His Excellency Ambassador Peter Beckingham, we thank the Government of U.K. for their soft loan of over P1 Billion, plus a grant of another P560 million, to build 242 UK steel bridges nationwide, Including this one", PGMA said.

Ambassador Beckingham was with PGMA's party who came for the inauguration. Secretary Favila of DTI was also present.

The new 246 lm double lane Ibajay Bridge replaces the existing Reinforced Concrete Deck Girder (RCDG) Bridge (252 lm long) that leads to the Caticlan Jetty port where commercial ships and boats dock, and serves as a jump-off point to Boracay Island.

The new UK Steel Truss Bridge is located 63 meters downstream of the existing bridge at Brgy. Polo, Ibajay, along the Strong Republic Nautical Highway (SNRH) at Aklan West Road (Tangalan-Ibajay Road Section.

PGMA said spending on physical and human infrastructure remains central to the ability of our nation to break the historic cycle of despair to prepare to meet the challenges of the future. She said human infrastructure is the most important investment, and to ensure that all 6-year-old Filipinos go to school, and to give as small a burden to parents in sending their children to school, she has directed Education Secretary Jesli Lapus not to require these school children to wear school uniforms.

"A strong infrastructure network is the backbone of a modern nation. That's why we are spending P200 billion on infrastructure this year. This is part of our Medium Term Public Investment Program to invest in social and physical infrastructure which includes billions of pesos and education, healthcare and training along with billions in new bridges, like this P200 million bridge; roads like this beautiful roads in this nautical highway, and ports to upgrade the competitiveness of the Philippines," PGMA said.

Of the roads in Aklan, PGMA said that years before when she was still a senator, she used to go to fiestas in Aklan accompanied by then Governor now Aklan Congressman Miraflores and saw the sorry state of roads in the towns she described as "abortion" roads.

"Now we have beautiful roads, which will in turn attract more investments and create more jobs, PGMA said.

After the bridge inauguration, PGMA looked over Ibajay's market which was recently destroyed by a big fire. She informed Ibajay Mayor Lulu Miraflores that the national Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) is providing P5 million to her municipality to rehabilitate the market, which gained a big applause and cheers from the Ibajaynons. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

No collection of fees this school opening - DepEd

Kalibo, Aklan – This school opening, parents are not required to pay fees when enrolling their children from pre-school up to Grade IV.

This clarification came from Dr. Victorina Laroza here, Schools Division Superintendent, DepEd-Aklan. Dr. Laroza issued this statement in time for enrolment this school year.

Dr. Laroza said there is no need to collect fees anymore as even before the school opening, classrooms and the surrounding premises are being cleaned through the Brigada Eskwela, and much needed things in schools like desks and chairs that need repairs will already be fixed.

The Brigada Eskwela, a bayanihan style of preparing and cleaning public schools, is undertaken by teachers, pupils and parents with the help of local government officials and the community.

In Aklan as in other schools all over the country, the Brigada Eskwela started June 2 up to June 7. With classrooms already cleaned, pupils will just go straight to their rooms for classes when public schools open in June 10, a Tuesday.

Dr. Laroza said that if there would be contributions from Grade Five up to High School, this would be very minimal and would be agreed upon by the Parent Teacher Community Association (PTCA).

Dr. Laroza also raised the possibility that this school year, pupils might avail of one on one text book use, which was promised by Department of Education Secretary Jesli Lapus.

Meanwhile, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo recently signed the appointments of some 1,800 new principals bringing to 2,100 the number of new principal items given allotments in the 2008 budget.

Education Secretary Jesli Lapus said the upgrading of the head teachers and master teachers who passed the qualifying exams would fill the gap in the number of schools without principals and only headed by a master teacher.

The President has encouraged the upgrading of skills of teachers and to have all schools in the country to be headed by a principal in a move to deliver quality education to all especially the poor.

The President has stressed that education is the poor's passport to a better life. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

PGMA solves power woe of Aparicio folks; barangay to be lighted soon

Ibajay, Aklan – It took a recent visit to Aklan from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for residents of an upland barangay in Ibajay, Aklan to enjoy the many benefits of electricity soon.

Aparicio, one of the barangays of Ibajay town, is not yet connected to the power lines of Aklan Electric Cooperative, Inc., distributor of power in the province.

PGMA visited Ibajay recently to inaugurate the town's new bridge, and to personally hand the assistance of the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) to rehabilitate its recently-burned public market.

Aparicio, along with barangays Monlaque and Malindog are beneficiaries of the country's peace agreement with the RPA-RPM.

PGMA said that in the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan 2004-2010, the peace process consists of peacemaking and peacekeeping, which includes full implementation of existing final peace agreements, such as with the RPA-RPM.

"We want our peace agreement with the RPA to bring a new era of economic development to areas like Aparicio, Malindog and Monlaque in Ibajay. I want to know the status of development in these barangays", PGMA said in her speech during the Ibajay Bridge inauguration.

To hear directly from the barangay captains of these barangays, she invited them for a talk at the residence of Congressman Miraflores, where they presented their concerns and needs, one of these being electricity.

Residents of Aparicio had long been requesting for electricity in their barangay.

"If we have electricity, we can even work at night, increasing our productivity," said Luzminda Domingo, a resident who engages in abaca rope twining and loom-weaving.

Most of Aparicio residents are members of Aparicio ARC Multi-Purpose Cooperative, engaged in copra-making, abaca cloth loom-weaving and rope twining, nito crafting, and vegetable and fruit farming.

Aparicio has been provided by the DTI with the Cottage Industry Training Center (CITC) and residents were trained on abaca cloth loom-weaving, rope twining into various sizes and colors, etc.

Being an upland barangay, Aparicio has no rice fields, so residents buy their supply from the market, and for government rice, from the Tindahan Natin outlets in the barangay.

Aklan Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores, queried a day after PGMA's visit on the highlights and assistance the President had committed for Aklan, assured that very soon, Barangay Aparicio will be connected to power lines of Aklan Electric Cooperative Inc. (AKELCO) as promised by its General Manager, Chito Peralta. The swift decision, according to Congressman Miraflores was due to a directive from Secretary of Energy Angelo T. Reyes who assured the President of Aparicio's energization soon.

Brgy. Monlaque, the barangay before Aparicio, is already energized. The barangay captain of Malindog, on the other hand, asked the President for a hanging bridge in his barangay, according to Congressman Miraflores. He committed to take care of the concerns raised by Monlaque as he said it was minimal. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

PGMA directs DA to fund rehab of irrigation system in Ibajay

Ibajay, Aklan -- President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has directed the Department of Agriculture (DA) to provide P35 million for the rehabilitation and augmentation of the Panakuyan River Irrigation System in Ibajay, Aklan to irrigate more than a thousand hectares of rice lands in the area.

Aklan Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores said PGMA gave this directive to the DA when he tried to remind President Arroyo of the Ibajay farmers' request when they were on their way to the Kalibo Airport from Ibajay after PGMA's visit to the town.

PGMA recently visited Aklan particularly the town of Ibajay to inaugurate its new bridge.

Congressman Miraflores said the rehabilitation of the river irrigation system is seen to take four months. The job involves construction of a water intake from the Ibajay River to Panakuyan River so farmers in the area will have irrigation water for their rice fields.

Miraflores said that presently, due to the deterioration and drying up of the Panakuyan River, only 500 hectares are irrigated in the area.

"The rehabilitation and augmentation of the Panakuyan River will be a big thing for Ibajay farmers. If it gets connected to Ibajay River and irrigation water is already sufficient, the cropping intensity will be doubled in the areas covered", Miraflores said.

Miraflores also said that even farmers from nearby Nabas town will benefit from the rehabilitation project. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

CARP PICTURES

Handloom for abaca fiber weaving provided by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to the cooperative of Brgy. Aparicio in Ibajay aimed to produce better abaca products for the market as well as to provide better livelihood opportunities to barangay residents. The loom is housed at the Cottage Industry Training Center (CITC) Building in the barangay. Abaca finished products like cloth and twines are displayed in the center. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Abaca products displayed at the Cottage Industry Training Center Building in Aparicio, Ibajay (from left) the popular “Stick O twine especially ordered by furniture makers, abaca rope and white abaca twine. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

This building is houses the post harvest facilities of Aparicio Agrarian Reform Multi-purpose Cooperative. Brgy. Aparicio in Ibajay, Aklan is an upland barangay which just recently became accessible through the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) of the Department of Agrarian Reform. Aparicio is a recipient of the government's KALAHI program under conflict area. Before, Aparicio could only be reached from ibajay town through rafts. it has no ricefields. The barangay has a Tindahan Natin (TN) outlet where NFA rice is sold, so those who cannot afford to buy commercial rice can opt to buy government rice. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Copra, Aparicio's major produce, is stored at the post - harvest building of the ARB MPC. Protected from rain by the building, copra, if of good quality, fetches a price as high as P27 per kilo and generates a considerable household income for the people of Aparicio. Coconuts are harvested for copra every three months. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

NEW IBAJAY BRIDGE - This newly-constructed Ibajay bridge is seen to further boost booming agri-tourism industry of Aklan. Constructed alongside the old bridge, travel from Caticlan to Kalibo and provinces and cities in Panay is expected to run smoother and faster. Delivery of farm produce from Aklan's agriculture-producing towns to markets will also be easier. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Vicente Nicor, a CARP beneficiary in Malinao, Aklan, is about to pick up a pile of pipino he had just harvested from his vegetable farm also planted with squash, ampalaya, okra and eggplants. Nicor, who practices organic farming, said he learned much-needed farming technology through the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) under its CARP program. According to DAR-Aklan, one of its major partners in teaching proper farming technologies is the Aklan State University (ASU). ASU too, as the only state university in Aklan, accomodates scholars identified by DAR under the President Diosdado Macapagal Scholarship Program. The program has produced Cum Laudes, mostly children or grandchildren of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
CARP BRIDGE - Timbaban Bridge, which connects Malinao town to Madalag,was constructed through the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform program. With this bridge, farmer-beneficiaries of Fatima ARC of Malinao and Timbaban ARC of Madalag now find it easy to deliver their produce to Aklan markets . Big buses now ply the road network bringing passengers and produce easily to the capital town of Kalibo and back, daily. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
CARP and Food Security in Aklan - These green rice fields are in Malinao, tended by an Agrarian Reform Benenficiary (ARB) of Fatima ARC. The ARC covers Brgys. Bulabod Sugnod, Sipac, and Rosario. The program was launched and expanded in 1999/2004, assisted by DAR-ADB-ARCP-FAO-PATSARRD. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Paggalang Sa Watawat

Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez delivers a short message after the flag raising ceremony to launch the “Paggalang Sa Watawat” campaign in Aklan May 28. The launching was held in front of the Provincial Capitol. (CSC/PIA)

Government employees who joined the launching of the “Paggalang Sa Watawat” campaign recite the 'Panatang Makabayan' after the flagraising ceremony at the Provincial Capaitol Grounds. The launching was led by Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez and Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo (CSC/PIA)

This big Philippine flag is now prominently displayed in front of the Provincial Capitol Building in Kalibo, Aklan to mark the launching of the “Paggalang Sa Watawat” campaign which kicked off May 28 and will be observed until June 12 of this year as mandated under Republic Act 8491 - the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines. In Aklan, the launching was held at the Provincial Capitol Grounds through a flag-raising ceremony led by Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez and Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo and joined by hundreds of provincial and national government employees holding offices in the Provincial Capitol Grounds. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Dir. Evelyn Ejar of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) tells government employees who joinned the launching of the “Paggalang Sa Watawat” campaign at the Provincial Capitol Grounds that they are expected to be the first to respect the Philippine flag. The launching in Aklan was held May 28. (CSC/PIA)

PGMA VISITS

Ibajay Mayor Lulu Miraflores (second from right) shakes the hands of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo after the unveiling of marker of the new Ibajay Bridge June 2. Others from right - Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo, Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores and UK Ambassador Peter Beckingham (back to camera). (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)

Aklan Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores (far right, standing) welcomes PGMA (3rd from right, seated and her party to Ibajay, Aklan at the short program held for the inauguration of the town's new bridge. Her visit to Aklan today, June 2 is her first for this year, and her first time to come to Ibajay as President. The bridge double-lane, and 246 in length, is one of the development programs of the Philippine Government with the assistance from the United Kingdom. With PGMA, seated are from right - Ibajay mayor Lulu Miraflores, U.K. Ambassador Peter Beckingham and Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez. (PIAVenus G. Villanueva)

New Ibajay bridge to serve as gateway from Boracay to Panay –PGMA

Ibajay, Aklan -- The new Ibajay bridge which was inaugurated today by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will serve as a gateway from Boracay Island to Panay.

"Ibajay Bridge is going to be a key to development of Panay. Boracay Island is still the favorite tourist destination of the Philippines," PGMA told the audience who witnessed the inauguration, composed of Aklan officials led by Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores and Governor Carlito Marquez, municipal mayors and representatives; Ibajay local officials led by Mayor Lulu Miralores, barangay officials and residents.

"This new bridge took two years to build, and costs over P200 million for both civil works and steel bridging material. Through His Excellency Ambassador Peter Beckingham, we thank the Government of U.K. for their soft loan of over P1 Billion, plus a grant of another P560 million, to build 242 UK steel bridges nationwide, Including this one", PGMA said.

Ambassador Beckingham was with PGMA's party who came for the inauguration. Secretary Favila of DTI was also present.

The new 246 lm double lane Ibajay Bridge replaces the existing Reinforced Concrete Deck Girder (RCDG) Bridge (252 lm long) that leads to the Caticlan Jetty port where commercial ships and boats dock, and serves as a jump-off point to Boracay Island.

The new UK Steel Truss Bridge is located 63 meters downstream of the existing bridge at Brgy. Polo, Ibajay, along the Strong Republic Nautical Highway (SNRH) at Aklan West Road (Tangalan-Ibajay Road Section.

PGMA said spending on physical and human infrastructure remains central to the ability of our nation to break the historic cycle of despair to prepare to meet the challenges of the future. She said human infrastructure is the most important investment, and to ensure that all 6-year-old Filipinos go to school, and to give as small a burden to parents in sending their children to school, she has directed Education Secretary Jesli Lapus not to require these school children to wear school uniforms.

"A strong infrastructure network is the backbone of a modern nation. That's why we are spending P200 billion on infrastructure this year. This is part of our Medium Term Public Investment Program to invest in social and physical infrastructure which includes billions of pesos and education, healthcare and training along with billions in new bridges, like this P200 million bridge; roads like this beautiful roads in this nautical highway, and ports to upgrade the competitiveness of the Philippines," PGMA said.

Of the roads in Aklan, PGMA said that years before when she was still a senator, she used to go to fiestas in Aklan accompanied by then Governor now Aklan Congressman Miraflores and saw the sorry state of roads in the towns she described as "abortion" roads.

"Now we have beautiful roads, which will in turn attract more investments and create more jobs, PGMA said.

After the bridge inauguration, PGMA looked over Ibajay's market which was recently destroyed by a big fire. She informed Ibajay Mayor Lulu Miraflores that the national Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) is providing P5 million to her municipality to rehabilitate the market, which gained a big applause and cheers from the Ibajaynons. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)