Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan - With the Kalibo Airport already receiving international flights, the eyes of tourism-related investors, stakeholders and the government are now focused on the development of Caticlan Airport into an international one.
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who was in Boracay Island from March 28-30 for the official visit of Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare, told Augusto C. Tolentino, IBC-DYRG Station Manager during a one on one interview today that many investors are eying the development of Caticlan Airport to become international under the Build-Operate and Transfer (BOT) scheme.
The interview was held at the Shangrila Resort and Spa in Boracay Island.
“Kalibo Airport is already serving international flights, it has already its Instrument Landing System (ILS) which allows airplanes to land even at night and its terminal building is being built. Roads are also good from Kalibo to Caticlan and travel only takes an hour,” President Arroyo told Tolentino.
President Arroyo told Tolentino, however, that there are many tourists and hotel owners who want to have international flights landing in Caticlan Airport.
She said that there was already a submitted proposal to turn Caticlan Airport to international from Ambassador Frank Alba, who is from Aklan, in partnership with George Yang of McDonald and Fairways and Bluewaters.
“Under the rules of the BOT, if a proponent has submitted a proposal, this should be published, and it was published already in order to invite challengers. There were three or four challengers. I talked with Sec. Mendoza this morning and I reminded him that under the rules, if there are challengers, they will give the challenge to the original proponent. If the original proponent matches the challenge, the project will go to him,” PGMA explained.
The President also talked about the planned development of an airport in Carabao Island by some interested investors.
“What I can say is, right now, Kalibo Airport has already an existing ILS, so planes could already land all night. Its new terminal building will be finished in November. Yang Caticlan Airport, tiyak na yan, kasi may apat o limang bidders na. Pipiliin na lang kung sino. Tapos meron pang possibility nga Carabao Island,” President Arroyo said.
The airport at Caticlan is now considered as the country’s busiest airports, which receives daily more or less 52 flights. (PIA 6)
Friday, May 15, 2009
Minimize use of electricity on “peak hours” to save money, energy
Kalibo, Aklan –Member-consumers of Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) could be instruments to lower generation charge by minimizing electric consumption during “peak hours”.
According to AKELCO management, “peak hours” are from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. when almost everybody uses electricity, which costs P5.6379 per kilowatt hour; while the lowest comes between 2:00 a.m. up to 7:00 a.m. which only amounts to P1.3805 per kilowatt hour. During other periods, the average rate per kilowatt hour is P2.5578.
Because of this, the AKELCO management is appealing to member-consumers to choose the period in using their appliances specifically when power is at its lowest cost and avoid usage when power cost is high, in order to pay less for the same amount of kilowatt hour consumption, which is the reason behind the call of the AKELCO management for members to observe the Time of Use (TOU) scheme.
“I appeal to all member-consumers to limit their electric usage between 6:00 P.M. to 10:00 p.m., and instead use electricity at early mornings and early afternoons which are the off-peak periods of the day, because with that, we can all help reduce the high cost of power generation,” said Engr. Ricardo Ileto, AKELCO AGM for Engineering.
Lovell Gepte Juliano, AKELCO PIO said the TOU meter is not yet available for interested consumers to purchase for this type of technology, but consumers can save their money for power cost if they use their electricity widely.
Meanwhile, a worthwhile activity which will help save electricity which will be participated too by the province of Aklan is the observation of the “Earth Hour” on March 28 of this year.
The activity calls for turning off of lights for one hour from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. which will save energy and at the same time promote action against global warming.
This scheme, spearheaded by the Department of Energy and the World Wildlife fund (WWF), which will be observed by the entire country and cities and towns all over the world – aims to be the world’s largest mass participation event.
In Aklan, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer John Kenneth Almalbis, who was designated by Governor Carlito Marquez as the focal person for Earth Hour, has already gone around the province to coordinate with local government officials to join this worldwide event.
The Earth Hour, according to Governor Marquez, will be sending a powerful global message that “YES, it is definitely possible to take action on global warming”. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
According to AKELCO management, “peak hours” are from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. when almost everybody uses electricity, which costs P5.6379 per kilowatt hour; while the lowest comes between 2:00 a.m. up to 7:00 a.m. which only amounts to P1.3805 per kilowatt hour. During other periods, the average rate per kilowatt hour is P2.5578.
Because of this, the AKELCO management is appealing to member-consumers to choose the period in using their appliances specifically when power is at its lowest cost and avoid usage when power cost is high, in order to pay less for the same amount of kilowatt hour consumption, which is the reason behind the call of the AKELCO management for members to observe the Time of Use (TOU) scheme.
“I appeal to all member-consumers to limit their electric usage between 6:00 P.M. to 10:00 p.m., and instead use electricity at early mornings and early afternoons which are the off-peak periods of the day, because with that, we can all help reduce the high cost of power generation,” said Engr. Ricardo Ileto, AKELCO AGM for Engineering.
Lovell Gepte Juliano, AKELCO PIO said the TOU meter is not yet available for interested consumers to purchase for this type of technology, but consumers can save their money for power cost if they use their electricity widely.
Meanwhile, a worthwhile activity which will help save electricity which will be participated too by the province of Aklan is the observation of the “Earth Hour” on March 28 of this year.
The activity calls for turning off of lights for one hour from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. which will save energy and at the same time promote action against global warming.
This scheme, spearheaded by the Department of Energy and the World Wildlife fund (WWF), which will be observed by the entire country and cities and towns all over the world – aims to be the world’s largest mass participation event.
In Aklan, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer John Kenneth Almalbis, who was designated by Governor Carlito Marquez as the focal person for Earth Hour, has already gone around the province to coordinate with local government officials to join this worldwide event.
The Earth Hour, according to Governor Marquez, will be sending a powerful global message that “YES, it is definitely possible to take action on global warming”. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Despite financial crisis, these Aklan entrepreneurs are still optimistic
Despite the global financial crisis and uncertainties in the business sector, entrepreneurs in Aklan, especially the women, are still optimistic their businesses and livelihood ventures will overcome this current situation.
Rosita “Rose” Sauza of Rosa Foods, a pioneer meat processing establishment in Aklan specializing in pork longganiza, tocino and other meat products, said business is “as usual” – they have enough meat suppliers for their daily production, and they have expanded their business, establishing branches in various parts of Panay Island.
“We have a branch now in Capiz, and another in Antique,” Rose revealed. “At first, orders are not so big in these branches, but now we have noticed that orders to replenish stocks in these branches are getting bigger and more frequent,” she added.
Rose said Rosa Foods is concentrating on filling the needs of the local market, especially in Kalibo and in Boracay Island. According to her, Boracay Island is a “God-send” to Aklan, because her products have a ready market in the island.
“Rosa Food products have institutional buyers in the island like hotels, resorts and other establishments. We are lucky in Aklan because we have Boracay Island, where we can sell our products,” Rose said.
Rosa Foods is also lucky to have partners in the government which further propelled its success and prominence in the business sector. In 2000, it was able to obtain a loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) here with a low interest. The loan was made to improve the work and display area of the establishment’s food processing plant and the establishment of good manufacturing services.
Rosa Foods also obtained loan assistance from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for the acquisition of equipment and other needs. Because of these collaborations with other agencies, it was awarded for two consecutive years as the Best Meat Processing Plant in Western Visayas by the National Meat Inspection Commission. With the expansion, Rosa Foods was also able to employ more people in its immediate community in Barangay Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan, as well those manning its various branches or outlets in Aklan and in other Panay provinces.
Another entrepreneur who exudes optimism despite the global financial crunch is Rose Nepomuceno, who heads Silver Handicrafts, a leading establishment which specializes in nitocraft.
Nito is a local vine found in Aklan and in neighboring provinces in Panay, which is fashioned into various items – trays, placemats, pencil holders, lamp shades, etc.
Silver Handicrafts export these products and for a time, the products had a good market abroad. At the same time, Rose Nepomuceno also maintains display areas in Kalibo for her products and in Boracay Island. She also joins trade fairs in the province and in malls in major cities organized by the Department of Trade and Industry.
Asked what she thinks of the financial crisis and if there are negative effects on her products, Rose revealed that currently, she is concentrating more on the local market.
“We believe we will overcome this situation. We believe in our products. Silver Handicraft is still exporting now because we have to be visible in the foreign market,” she said.
Like Rosa Foods, Silver Handicrafts also provides livelihood opportunities to Aklanons, from the nito gatherers to the nito crafters from all parts of the province.
Silver Handicraft, just like Rosa Foods too, is recipient of various national awards because of the exceptional quality and unique designs and innovations of its products, proof enough that when you have good products, positive outlook and resiliency to overcome any challenge, you will stay in the picture and survive. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Rosita “Rose” Sauza of Rosa Foods, a pioneer meat processing establishment in Aklan specializing in pork longganiza, tocino and other meat products, said business is “as usual” – they have enough meat suppliers for their daily production, and they have expanded their business, establishing branches in various parts of Panay Island.
“We have a branch now in Capiz, and another in Antique,” Rose revealed. “At first, orders are not so big in these branches, but now we have noticed that orders to replenish stocks in these branches are getting bigger and more frequent,” she added.
Rose said Rosa Foods is concentrating on filling the needs of the local market, especially in Kalibo and in Boracay Island. According to her, Boracay Island is a “God-send” to Aklan, because her products have a ready market in the island.
“Rosa Food products have institutional buyers in the island like hotels, resorts and other establishments. We are lucky in Aklan because we have Boracay Island, where we can sell our products,” Rose said.
Rosa Foods is also lucky to have partners in the government which further propelled its success and prominence in the business sector. In 2000, it was able to obtain a loan from the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) here with a low interest. The loan was made to improve the work and display area of the establishment’s food processing plant and the establishment of good manufacturing services.
Rosa Foods also obtained loan assistance from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for the acquisition of equipment and other needs. Because of these collaborations with other agencies, it was awarded for two consecutive years as the Best Meat Processing Plant in Western Visayas by the National Meat Inspection Commission. With the expansion, Rosa Foods was also able to employ more people in its immediate community in Barangay Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan, as well those manning its various branches or outlets in Aklan and in other Panay provinces.
Another entrepreneur who exudes optimism despite the global financial crunch is Rose Nepomuceno, who heads Silver Handicrafts, a leading establishment which specializes in nitocraft.
Nito is a local vine found in Aklan and in neighboring provinces in Panay, which is fashioned into various items – trays, placemats, pencil holders, lamp shades, etc.
Silver Handicrafts export these products and for a time, the products had a good market abroad. At the same time, Rose Nepomuceno also maintains display areas in Kalibo for her products and in Boracay Island. She also joins trade fairs in the province and in malls in major cities organized by the Department of Trade and Industry.
Asked what she thinks of the financial crisis and if there are negative effects on her products, Rose revealed that currently, she is concentrating more on the local market.
“We believe we will overcome this situation. We believe in our products. Silver Handicraft is still exporting now because we have to be visible in the foreign market,” she said.
Like Rosa Foods, Silver Handicrafts also provides livelihood opportunities to Aklanons, from the nito gatherers to the nito crafters from all parts of the province.
Silver Handicraft, just like Rosa Foods too, is recipient of various national awards because of the exceptional quality and unique designs and innovations of its products, proof enough that when you have good products, positive outlook and resiliency to overcome any challenge, you will stay in the picture and survive. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
PNP increases presence in Boracay with onset of peak vacation season
Kalibo, Aklan -- Expecting a surge of foreign and local tourists to flock Boracay this vacation season, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is augmenting its forces in the island to maintain peace and order as well as to secure visitors.
The PNP also deployed a SWAT team for the island, which is under the command of P/Supt. Arnold Ardiente, Boracay Police Station’s Chief of Police, according to P/Supt. Antony Maghari, Deputy Provincial Director for Administration of the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) here.
Supt. Maghari also said the Caticlan Jetty Port, the jump-off point to Boracay Island has additional police personnel coming from the different municipal police stations here.
“The airport in Caticlan will also have additional forces,” Supt. Maghari said in a radio interview over a local radio station here.
Caticlan Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country, with flights seen to further increase these coming months with people vacationing in Boracay Island.
Supt. Maghari said the force augmentation in Boracay will only be for two months, after which the requested personnel will be returned to their stations.
Kalibo International Airport’s Aviation Security Group will also be augmented by the Regional Mobile Group as ordered by PNP 6 Regional Director Isagani Cuevas.
“Boracay Island is the lifeblood of Aklan so we must protect it well. The temporary deployment of some personnel is a matter of sacrifice on the PNP’s part at this particular period,” said Supt. Maghari.
Police Senior Supt. Clarence Guinto currently heads the Aklan Police Provincial Office. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
The PNP also deployed a SWAT team for the island, which is under the command of P/Supt. Arnold Ardiente, Boracay Police Station’s Chief of Police, according to P/Supt. Antony Maghari, Deputy Provincial Director for Administration of the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) here.
Supt. Maghari also said the Caticlan Jetty Port, the jump-off point to Boracay Island has additional police personnel coming from the different municipal police stations here.
“The airport in Caticlan will also have additional forces,” Supt. Maghari said in a radio interview over a local radio station here.
Caticlan Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country, with flights seen to further increase these coming months with people vacationing in Boracay Island.
Supt. Maghari said the force augmentation in Boracay will only be for two months, after which the requested personnel will be returned to their stations.
Kalibo International Airport’s Aviation Security Group will also be augmented by the Regional Mobile Group as ordered by PNP 6 Regional Director Isagani Cuevas.
“Boracay Island is the lifeblood of Aklan so we must protect it well. The temporary deployment of some personnel is a matter of sacrifice on the PNP’s part at this particular period,” said Supt. Maghari.
Police Senior Supt. Clarence Guinto currently heads the Aklan Police Provincial Office. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Aklan to help fight global warming through “Earth Hour”
Kalibo, Aklan –The province of Aklan will be one of the provinces of the world which will help fight global warming when its 17 towns will join the call of the Department of Energy (DOE) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to turn off the lights for one hour at 8:30 p.m. on March 28, 2009.
The organizers of Earth Hour Philippines said the turning off of lights for one hour on the designated time will send a powerful global message that “YES, it is definitely possible to take action on global warming.”
In their letter to Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez, DOE Secretary Angelo T. Reyes and WWF-Philippines CEO-Vice Chairman Jose Ma. Lorenzo Tan said Earth Hour 2009, which aims to be the world’s largest mass participation event, will be the culmination of one billion people in over 1,000 cities from around the globe represented by business, government, and communities uniting to send a message to world leaders for the 2009 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen “that we need a commitment of action to reduce greenhouse gas emission soon”.
Governor Marquez has designated Engr. John Kenneth C. Almalbis, Aklan Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer as focal person for Earth Hour in Aklan.
“As such his task is to coordinate with municipalities in the province in turning off the lights for one hour from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., “ Governor Marquez said.
Sec. Reyes and WWF CEO-VP Tan said that for Earth Hour, they are seeking support of officials of provinces, cities and towns in the following respects – switching off lights in major thoroughfares in the area and in major landmarks of jurisdiction during Earth Hour; if and when feasible; mobilizing the community to switch off lights in their households; organizing the province’s or town’s own Earth Hour Event in the province or community; encouraging private sector support to this initiative by switching off their signage lights or some of their lights in their facilities during Earth Hour, as their operations or business will allow; and sending a delegation to the Earth Hour Countdown Event at the SM Mall of Asia on March 28, 2009, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
“Earth Hour is a major call to action for every individual, government, and business to act and ensure a sustainable future. It is a message of hope and action. We can fight global warming if we all act together. With your support and commitment, we can look forward to a meaningful action that spells a big difference for our world,” Sec. Reyes and CEO Tan said.
For Aklan’s total participation in the activity, Engr. Almalbis, Aklan’s Earth Hour focal person, has started going around the province to coordinate with the mayors and the constituents. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
The organizers of Earth Hour Philippines said the turning off of lights for one hour on the designated time will send a powerful global message that “YES, it is definitely possible to take action on global warming.”
In their letter to Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez, DOE Secretary Angelo T. Reyes and WWF-Philippines CEO-Vice Chairman Jose Ma. Lorenzo Tan said Earth Hour 2009, which aims to be the world’s largest mass participation event, will be the culmination of one billion people in over 1,000 cities from around the globe represented by business, government, and communities uniting to send a message to world leaders for the 2009 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen “that we need a commitment of action to reduce greenhouse gas emission soon”.
Governor Marquez has designated Engr. John Kenneth C. Almalbis, Aklan Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer as focal person for Earth Hour in Aklan.
“As such his task is to coordinate with municipalities in the province in turning off the lights for one hour from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., “ Governor Marquez said.
Sec. Reyes and WWF CEO-VP Tan said that for Earth Hour, they are seeking support of officials of provinces, cities and towns in the following respects – switching off lights in major thoroughfares in the area and in major landmarks of jurisdiction during Earth Hour; if and when feasible; mobilizing the community to switch off lights in their households; organizing the province’s or town’s own Earth Hour Event in the province or community; encouraging private sector support to this initiative by switching off their signage lights or some of their lights in their facilities during Earth Hour, as their operations or business will allow; and sending a delegation to the Earth Hour Countdown Event at the SM Mall of Asia on March 28, 2009, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
“Earth Hour is a major call to action for every individual, government, and business to act and ensure a sustainable future. It is a message of hope and action. We can fight global warming if we all act together. With your support and commitment, we can look forward to a meaningful action that spells a big difference for our world,” Sec. Reyes and CEO Tan said.
For Aklan’s total participation in the activity, Engr. Almalbis, Aklan’s Earth Hour focal person, has started going around the province to coordinate with the mayors and the constituents. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Comelec’s continuing voter’s registration up to October l5 only
Kalibo, Aklan -- Filipinos who are not registered voters yet but wish to vote in the 2010 national and local elections have until October 15 of this year to register in their respective Commission on Election’s (COMELEC) offices, or at designated areas for registration.
Lorena Tumbagahan, COMELEC-Kalibo’s Municipal Election Officer, said this is the latest update from her office. Earlier, the COMELEC announced that the continuing registration is set from December 2, 2008 to December l5, 2009.
“The shortened period of continuing registration, will allow the COMELEC personnel to conduct other activities in preparation for the 2010 elections, like voter’s fora and education,” Tumbagahan said.
The adjustment also affected the schedule of the filing of Certificates of Candidacies (COCs) of candidates, which is now tentatively set in the month of November this year.
Qualified to register for the 2010 elections are persons with ages 18 and up, according to the COMELEC.
“Those who would be turning 18 on the day of the elections are also qualified to register,” Tumbagahan said.
Besides accepting applications for voter’s registration, the COMELEC, especially its Kalibo office, is now concentrating on gathering voter’s registration records, which were destroyed by the flood brought by Typhoon Frank June of last year.
Tumbagahan said they have asked the assistance of the COMELEC Central Office for copies, but were provided only with records from 1997 to 2001.
“We still have to look reconstitute the records from 2002 to 2006, numbering around 15,000. We share this problem with Madalag, but it has a smaller number of voters,” said Tumbagahan.
The COMELEC here, Tumbagahan said, is open to registrants even on Saturdays now and during holidays, except on Holy Thursday and Good Friday.
Tumbagahan appealed to would-be registrants not to wait for the last day of registration to flock to the office.
“We still have many things to do, especially that the coming elections will be automated, so please register now,” she said. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Lorena Tumbagahan, COMELEC-Kalibo’s Municipal Election Officer, said this is the latest update from her office. Earlier, the COMELEC announced that the continuing registration is set from December 2, 2008 to December l5, 2009.
“The shortened period of continuing registration, will allow the COMELEC personnel to conduct other activities in preparation for the 2010 elections, like voter’s fora and education,” Tumbagahan said.
The adjustment also affected the schedule of the filing of Certificates of Candidacies (COCs) of candidates, which is now tentatively set in the month of November this year.
Qualified to register for the 2010 elections are persons with ages 18 and up, according to the COMELEC.
“Those who would be turning 18 on the day of the elections are also qualified to register,” Tumbagahan said.
Besides accepting applications for voter’s registration, the COMELEC, especially its Kalibo office, is now concentrating on gathering voter’s registration records, which were destroyed by the flood brought by Typhoon Frank June of last year.
Tumbagahan said they have asked the assistance of the COMELEC Central Office for copies, but were provided only with records from 1997 to 2001.
“We still have to look reconstitute the records from 2002 to 2006, numbering around 15,000. We share this problem with Madalag, but it has a smaller number of voters,” said Tumbagahan.
The COMELEC here, Tumbagahan said, is open to registrants even on Saturdays now and during holidays, except on Holy Thursday and Good Friday.
Tumbagahan appealed to would-be registrants not to wait for the last day of registration to flock to the office.
“We still have many things to do, especially that the coming elections will be automated, so please register now,” she said. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Ombudsman’s Office campaigning for OPLAN RED PLATE implementation
The Office of the Ombudsman for the Visayas Regional Office will be aggressively implementing the OPLAN RED PLATE Program.
The campaign is in line with Administrative Order No. 239 signed by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on September 15, 2008 prohibiting the use of government vehicles for purposes other than official business.
Virginia Palanca-Santiago, Assistant Ombudsman-Visayas, said that to ensure the sustainability of the program, the Office of the Ombudsman for the Visayas is creating the OPLAN RED PLATE Task Force.
“This is also to establish continuing partnership with other government agencies especially in the call for energy conservation and a just administration of law,” said Palanca-Santiago.
To kick-off the campaign, a whole day Orientation/Briefing of the Task Force will be held on March 13 at the Emilion Function Center, General Luna Street, Iloilo City, to be attended by selected staff and personnel of various government agencies. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
The campaign is in line with Administrative Order No. 239 signed by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on September 15, 2008 prohibiting the use of government vehicles for purposes other than official business.
Virginia Palanca-Santiago, Assistant Ombudsman-Visayas, said that to ensure the sustainability of the program, the Office of the Ombudsman for the Visayas is creating the OPLAN RED PLATE Task Force.
“This is also to establish continuing partnership with other government agencies especially in the call for energy conservation and a just administration of law,” said Palanca-Santiago.
To kick-off the campaign, a whole day Orientation/Briefing of the Task Force will be held on March 13 at the Emilion Function Center, General Luna Street, Iloilo City, to be attended by selected staff and personnel of various government agencies. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Certified seeds to be made available to Aklan farmers
Kalibo, Aklan -- The national government, together with the provincial government of Aklan will be assisting hard-pressed Aklan farmers who lost their rice harvests to “tungro” and rats this cropping season through subsidized certified seeds.
William Castillo, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) OIC said the provincial government is sourcing some 4,000 bags of certified rice seeds to be provided to farmers this next cropping season in June.
Castillo said each bag of certified rice seeds costs P1,200.00, half of which will be subsidized by the national government and the other half to be availed by the farmer through a loan assistance from the Provincial Cooperative Office (PCO).
Castillo said after harvest, farmers could opt to pay the PCO through cash, or through palay. Paying in palay form is acceptable, according to Castillo, because the PCO also engages in offering rice loans to Provincial Capitol employees here.
OPA is pushing for synchronized rice planting this next cropping season to eradicate “tungro” in the rice farms.
OPA is also pushing for sustained vegetable production in the province so farmers will have other food as well as income sources. It has on-going programs on abaca production and fisheries fully assisted by the Provincial Government under Governor Carlito Marquez.
Currently, the office is also focusing on inland fish production in Brgy. Nalook in Kalibo and in Dalipdip, Altavas. Castillo also revealed that an “ulang” hatchery has been installed in the municipality of Malinao – the only hatchery of its kind put up in Western Visayas. The “ulang” fries for the project were sourced from Nueva Ecija, according to him.
Castillo said the interventions in agricultural production in the province are intended to ensure food security for Aklanons as well as to help farmers overcome the global financial crisis. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
William Castillo, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) OIC said the provincial government is sourcing some 4,000 bags of certified rice seeds to be provided to farmers this next cropping season in June.
Castillo said each bag of certified rice seeds costs P1,200.00, half of which will be subsidized by the national government and the other half to be availed by the farmer through a loan assistance from the Provincial Cooperative Office (PCO).
Castillo said after harvest, farmers could opt to pay the PCO through cash, or through palay. Paying in palay form is acceptable, according to Castillo, because the PCO also engages in offering rice loans to Provincial Capitol employees here.
OPA is pushing for synchronized rice planting this next cropping season to eradicate “tungro” in the rice farms.
OPA is also pushing for sustained vegetable production in the province so farmers will have other food as well as income sources. It has on-going programs on abaca production and fisheries fully assisted by the Provincial Government under Governor Carlito Marquez.
Currently, the office is also focusing on inland fish production in Brgy. Nalook in Kalibo and in Dalipdip, Altavas. Castillo also revealed that an “ulang” hatchery has been installed in the municipality of Malinao – the only hatchery of its kind put up in Western Visayas. The “ulang” fries for the project were sourced from Nueva Ecija, according to him.
Castillo said the interventions in agricultural production in the province are intended to ensure food security for Aklanons as well as to help farmers overcome the global financial crisis. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
DA Sec tells Aklan farmers to use effective management against tungro, rat infestation
Kalibo, Aklan -- Aklan farmers should make use of effective pest management against tungro and rat infestation in the province which has ravaged Aklan rice farms this cropping season, according to Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Arthur Yap.
Sec. Yap’s advice was aired over a local radio station here in the wake of reports of agricultural workers and farmers in the province that their harvest this cropping season suffered due to tungro and rat infestation, putting in peril the people’s food security.
According to agriculture officials, the whole of Western Visayas is affected by this problem. The proliferation of tungro, which is caused by a virus, was due to incessant rains that made rice plants unable to produce their plant food, making them vulnerable to the virus. The proliferation of rats in rice farms, on the other hand, was blamed on Typhoon Frank, which destroyed their natural habitat, making them look for other sources for food in the lowlands and ricelands.
In Aklan, William Castillo, OIC of the Provincial Agriculturist Office said his office has identified one way of eradicating “tungo”, which is the implementation of synchronized farming.
“Through synchronized farming, we let the farms rest for two months so “tungro” will be eradicated. It is hard to eliminate this plant virus if rice planting is not synchronized, because the virus just transfers from one rice field to another,” Castillo said.
To eradicate rats, Castillo said some local government units in the province are already using acute rodenticides in the rice farms.
“Land preparation is also essential in rat eradication. Once the rice fields are filled with water, rats will come out from their holes and leave the farms”, said Castillo.
Castillo assured that the province, with the help of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) here, is conducting year-round trainings on Integrated Pest Management (IPM). (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Sec. Yap’s advice was aired over a local radio station here in the wake of reports of agricultural workers and farmers in the province that their harvest this cropping season suffered due to tungro and rat infestation, putting in peril the people’s food security.
According to agriculture officials, the whole of Western Visayas is affected by this problem. The proliferation of tungro, which is caused by a virus, was due to incessant rains that made rice plants unable to produce their plant food, making them vulnerable to the virus. The proliferation of rats in rice farms, on the other hand, was blamed on Typhoon Frank, which destroyed their natural habitat, making them look for other sources for food in the lowlands and ricelands.
In Aklan, William Castillo, OIC of the Provincial Agriculturist Office said his office has identified one way of eradicating “tungo”, which is the implementation of synchronized farming.
“Through synchronized farming, we let the farms rest for two months so “tungro” will be eradicated. It is hard to eliminate this plant virus if rice planting is not synchronized, because the virus just transfers from one rice field to another,” Castillo said.
To eradicate rats, Castillo said some local government units in the province are already using acute rodenticides in the rice farms.
“Land preparation is also essential in rat eradication. Once the rice fields are filled with water, rats will come out from their holes and leave the farms”, said Castillo.
Castillo assured that the province, with the help of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) here, is conducting year-round trainings on Integrated Pest Management (IPM). (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
ARISE is our response to CLEEP, says DTI
Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan -- ARISE (A Responsive and Innovative Strategy on Entrepreneurship ) is the DTI’s response to the President’s Comprehensive Livelihood Emergency Program (CLEEP), according to DTI Secretary Peter Favila.
Sec. Favila was in Boracay Island this week to attend the Cabinet meeting together with other department secretaries< President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Vice President Noli de Castro.
“ARISE can help encourage entrepreneurships among Aklanons and Boracay Island is a good venue for entrepreneurship with the vibrant tourism industry”, said Sec. Favila.
Sec. Favila expressed his elation when told by DTI-Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado Cadena that the office regularly holds ARISE briefings in Kalibo weekly to brief entrepreneurs and would-be entrepreneurs in opening or managing a small business, saying the activity is very good.
Director Cadena said that besides having a weekly briefing at the DTI office in Kalibo, he and his staff also go to different municipalities to conduct the same briefing.
“This is to ensure that those who are unable to go to Kalibo due to financial concerns like fares will be able to know about our program, which might encourage them to start a business in their areas that will help them improve their lives,” said Cadena.
Cadena said DTI targets to reach all municipalities and prospective entrepreneurs July of this month. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Sec. Favila was in Boracay Island this week to attend the Cabinet meeting together with other department secretaries< President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Vice President Noli de Castro.
“ARISE can help encourage entrepreneurships among Aklanons and Boracay Island is a good venue for entrepreneurship with the vibrant tourism industry”, said Sec. Favila.
Sec. Favila expressed his elation when told by DTI-Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado Cadena that the office regularly holds ARISE briefings in Kalibo weekly to brief entrepreneurs and would-be entrepreneurs in opening or managing a small business, saying the activity is very good.
Director Cadena said that besides having a weekly briefing at the DTI office in Kalibo, he and his staff also go to different municipalities to conduct the same briefing.
“This is to ensure that those who are unable to go to Kalibo due to financial concerns like fares will be able to know about our program, which might encourage them to start a business in their areas that will help them improve their lives,” said Cadena.
Cadena said DTI targets to reach all municipalities and prospective entrepreneurs July of this month. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Boracay not only a paradise for vacationers but for jobseekers too
“Welcome to Paradise”. This was the first line in a streamer hung by a national government agency to welcome President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo when she visited Boracay Island this week to convene a Cabinet meeting at the Boracay Terraces Resort Convention Center and to deliver a message at the Shangri-la Resort and Spa on developing Central Visayas as the country’s tourism beltway.
“Welcome to Paradise” was also the welcoming statement of Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ace Durano for PGMA, Vice President Noli de Castro, members of the Cabinet, provincial and local officials of Aklan and national and local media when he gave his briefing on the status of tourist-related infrastructure projects in the country to formally open the Cabinet meeting.
Boracay, with its sugar-fine white sand, pristine blue waters and swaying palms indeed impresses first-time visitors arriving in the island that he has discovered a paradise - and those who keep coming back, unable to refuse the lure of the island’s charms.
But Boracay is also viewed now as a paradise for those seeking jobs too, especially in this time of global financial crisis.
In her speech at the Shangri-la Resort and Spa before the Cabinet meeting, President Arroyo hailed the role of tourism in providing jobs to the people.
PGMA said Boracay is the country’s showcase tourism destination and is going well and strong. “Our people from the different provinces also come here for their rest and recreation,” the President said.
The President also said that there are still many things to be accomplished but the government will continue to promote Boracay as well as other destinations to ensure that tourism continues to be a flag bearer in economic progress and development --10.6 percent annual average growth for the past four years, the best performance in 20 years of tourism history.
“This has prompted investors to put up almost 7,000 new hotel and resort rooms of international classification with investments worth P550 billion. Two thousand of those rooms will open this year, employing 3,000 Filipinos”, PGMA said.
Here in Aklan, the Provincial Employment Service Office (PESO) reported that for 2008, it facilitated the employment of 435 Aklanons to Boracay resorts and other establishments. These employees are currently working as front desk officers, Food and Beverages staff, Finance/Accounting clerks, Engineering-Maintenance staff, Housekeeping staff, fast food crews, telephone operators, guest coordinators, security officers, etc.
Seen from the outside, this figure is a mere speck, because when one actually observes the activities in the island, there is a sustained taking in of workers – be they in construction, in managerial and other technical positions; transport, security services – the list goes on.
The construction boom never seems to stop in Boracay. Early morning, workers are ferried to their worksite, and when the dark sets in, they are ferried back to their homes or staff houses.
The tourism boom encourages entrepreneurships in the island too. From the mainland, people cross to the island to deliver their fish catch, their fruits, handicrafts, and other novel items which could catch the attention of tourists. Along the path, people can be seen vending items – (souvenir, food, even services –like body tattooing, or boating). With this scenario – Boracay fulfills the needs of the people both ways – to enjoy, and to earn to be able overcome the global crisis. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
“Welcome to Paradise” was also the welcoming statement of Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ace Durano for PGMA, Vice President Noli de Castro, members of the Cabinet, provincial and local officials of Aklan and national and local media when he gave his briefing on the status of tourist-related infrastructure projects in the country to formally open the Cabinet meeting.
Boracay, with its sugar-fine white sand, pristine blue waters and swaying palms indeed impresses first-time visitors arriving in the island that he has discovered a paradise - and those who keep coming back, unable to refuse the lure of the island’s charms.
But Boracay is also viewed now as a paradise for those seeking jobs too, especially in this time of global financial crisis.
In her speech at the Shangri-la Resort and Spa before the Cabinet meeting, President Arroyo hailed the role of tourism in providing jobs to the people.
PGMA said Boracay is the country’s showcase tourism destination and is going well and strong. “Our people from the different provinces also come here for their rest and recreation,” the President said.
The President also said that there are still many things to be accomplished but the government will continue to promote Boracay as well as other destinations to ensure that tourism continues to be a flag bearer in economic progress and development --10.6 percent annual average growth for the past four years, the best performance in 20 years of tourism history.
“This has prompted investors to put up almost 7,000 new hotel and resort rooms of international classification with investments worth P550 billion. Two thousand of those rooms will open this year, employing 3,000 Filipinos”, PGMA said.
Here in Aklan, the Provincial Employment Service Office (PESO) reported that for 2008, it facilitated the employment of 435 Aklanons to Boracay resorts and other establishments. These employees are currently working as front desk officers, Food and Beverages staff, Finance/Accounting clerks, Engineering-Maintenance staff, Housekeeping staff, fast food crews, telephone operators, guest coordinators, security officers, etc.
Seen from the outside, this figure is a mere speck, because when one actually observes the activities in the island, there is a sustained taking in of workers – be they in construction, in managerial and other technical positions; transport, security services – the list goes on.
The construction boom never seems to stop in Boracay. Early morning, workers are ferried to their worksite, and when the dark sets in, they are ferried back to their homes or staff houses.
The tourism boom encourages entrepreneurships in the island too. From the mainland, people cross to the island to deliver their fish catch, their fruits, handicrafts, and other novel items which could catch the attention of tourists. Along the path, people can be seen vending items – (souvenir, food, even services –like body tattooing, or boating). With this scenario – Boracay fulfills the needs of the people both ways – to enjoy, and to earn to be able overcome the global crisis. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Aklan farmers mulling to stop planting rice for a cropping season to arrest “tungro”
Kalibo, Aklan -- Aklan farmers are mulling to stop planting rice for a cropping season to eradicate “tungro” infestation which has affected the crops of the farmers, rendering low palay harvest.
Rene Enriquez, a farmer-leader in the province said the “tungro” infestation was too much, coupled by rat attacks, that some farmers only harvested at most five cavans from a hectare of riceland this season compared with a hundred they harvested during normal cropping seasons.
Continuous rains experienced for the past months also contributed to the poor harvest of the farmers and the proliferation of “tungron”.
Enriquez said the problem is not only being felt by farmers from Aklan but also by farmers in the entire Panay Island.
Agricultural leaders as well as farmers here believe that the big population of rats that swooped down the ricefields in the province was caused by their displacement when Typhoon Frank struck Aklan which destroyed their habitat.
To arrest “tungro”, farmer-leaders here are suggesting the planting of corn, mongo and “pakwan” this coming cropping season. It was also suggested that the NIA stop for the meantime the delivery of water to ricefields so farmers in irrigated areas would not plant. There were reservations, however about this option as subsistent farmers relying on their harvest for their household consumption in rainfed areas would continue planting out of necessity.
This issue was tackled during the meeting of the Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC). It was suggested by the members that the Provincial Development Council (PDC) should be convened to take up this matter and plan solutions as well as measures to cushion the impact of this latest concern.
In the wake of this prevailing concern, the National Food Authority (NFA) gave the assurance that the food agency has enough rice supply to last for more than two months. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Rene Enriquez, a farmer-leader in the province said the “tungro” infestation was too much, coupled by rat attacks, that some farmers only harvested at most five cavans from a hectare of riceland this season compared with a hundred they harvested during normal cropping seasons.
Continuous rains experienced for the past months also contributed to the poor harvest of the farmers and the proliferation of “tungron”.
Enriquez said the problem is not only being felt by farmers from Aklan but also by farmers in the entire Panay Island.
Agricultural leaders as well as farmers here believe that the big population of rats that swooped down the ricefields in the province was caused by their displacement when Typhoon Frank struck Aklan which destroyed their habitat.
To arrest “tungro”, farmer-leaders here are suggesting the planting of corn, mongo and “pakwan” this coming cropping season. It was also suggested that the NIA stop for the meantime the delivery of water to ricefields so farmers in irrigated areas would not plant. There were reservations, however about this option as subsistent farmers relying on their harvest for their household consumption in rainfed areas would continue planting out of necessity.
This issue was tackled during the meeting of the Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC). It was suggested by the members that the Provincial Development Council (PDC) should be convened to take up this matter and plan solutions as well as measures to cushion the impact of this latest concern.
In the wake of this prevailing concern, the National Food Authority (NFA) gave the assurance that the food agency has enough rice supply to last for more than two months. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
DTI, PNP tasked to monitor prices and supply of LPG in Aklan
Kalibo, Aklan --- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here has been tasked to monitor the prices and supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
DTI-Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadena said the request to monitor the prices and supply of LPG was made by the Department of Energy (DOE).
Also tasked to monitor LPG supply and prices here is the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Cadena said the DTI and the PNP will conduct individual monitoring and just compare their lists later.
Cadena said there is no problem with the supply of LPG in the province and households can still buy it at reasonable prices.
The DTI Provincial Director stressed that the task of his office is just to monitor.
“If there are violations, apprehension will be conducted by the DOE with the help of the PNP”, Cadena said. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
DTI-Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadena said the request to monitor the prices and supply of LPG was made by the Department of Energy (DOE).
Also tasked to monitor LPG supply and prices here is the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Cadena said the DTI and the PNP will conduct individual monitoring and just compare their lists later.
Cadena said there is no problem with the supply of LPG in the province and households can still buy it at reasonable prices.
The DTI Provincial Director stressed that the task of his office is just to monitor.
“If there are violations, apprehension will be conducted by the DOE with the help of the PNP”, Cadena said. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
DENR to open CENRO office in Boracay
Kalibo, Aklan -- In order to be readily at hand when environmental concerns crop up in the island of Boracay and nearby municipalities in the western part of Aklan, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will be setting up a Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in the island March of this year.
The CENRO office in Boracay will be manned by half of the personnel currently assigned at DENR-CENRO Kalibo.
Derlito Rico, Environment Management Specialist of DENR-Aklan said in a radio interview that the other half of the personnel will be retained in CENRO-Kalibo to serve the residents of the rest of Aklan towns. CENRO-Kalibo is headed by Baltazar Gerardo, while DENR-Aklan is headed by Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Raul Lorilla.
Joel Diaz will be serving as CENRO in Boracay. He was formerly the CENRO head in Sara, Iloilo, according to Rico.
CENRO-Boracay will hold its office at the Environment Management Bureau (EMB) office while looking for a lot to put up a permanent office.
The office will be catering to the environmental concerns and other environmental related needs of the residents of Buruanga, Malay (where Boracay Island is located), Nabas, Ibajay and Tangalan.
The order to open a CENRO office in Boracay Island came directly from DENR Secretary Lito Atienza. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
The CENRO office in Boracay will be manned by half of the personnel currently assigned at DENR-CENRO Kalibo.
Derlito Rico, Environment Management Specialist of DENR-Aklan said in a radio interview that the other half of the personnel will be retained in CENRO-Kalibo to serve the residents of the rest of Aklan towns. CENRO-Kalibo is headed by Baltazar Gerardo, while DENR-Aklan is headed by Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Raul Lorilla.
Joel Diaz will be serving as CENRO in Boracay. He was formerly the CENRO head in Sara, Iloilo, according to Rico.
CENRO-Boracay will hold its office at the Environment Management Bureau (EMB) office while looking for a lot to put up a permanent office.
The office will be catering to the environmental concerns and other environmental related needs of the residents of Buruanga, Malay (where Boracay Island is located), Nabas, Ibajay and Tangalan.
The order to open a CENRO office in Boracay Island came directly from DENR Secretary Lito Atienza. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Aklan has 2 first class municipalities
Kalibo, Aklan -- Aklan has 2 municipalities classified as first class now – Kalibo, the capital town, and the latest addition - Malay, which was recently re-classified from 3rd class to first class.
Malay is where the world-famous Boracay Island is.
Malay's re-classification is contained in Memorandum Circular No. 01-M(4)-08 issued by the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) of the Department of Finance dated November 19, 2008 re-classifying municipalities of the Province of Aklan effective July 29, 2008.
Malay's re-classification was based on Section 2 of Department Order No. 23-08 that states that the income classification of municipalities shall be based on the income brackets as follows: P55 M or more – 1st class; P45M or more but less than 55M – 2nd class; P35M or more but less than 45M – 3rd class; P25M or more but less than P35M- 4th class; P15M or more but less P25M – 5th class; and below P15M – 6th class.
According to LGU-Malay, its average annual income (in million pesos) for CYs 2004-2007 has reached P56.545, which is the reason for its re-classification as a first class municipality – now joining Kalibo.
Too, records of the BLGF showed that Malay placed 2nd in the entire Philippines in the CY 2006 Top Ten Municipalities based on collection from Locally Sourced Income (3rd Income Class category).
LGU-Malay, headed by Mayor Ciceron Cawaling, attributed the achievement of the municipality to investors and tourists who flock Boracay Island year-round, and to the entire Malaynon community. (LGU-Malay/PIA)
Malay is where the world-famous Boracay Island is.
Malay's re-classification is contained in Memorandum Circular No. 01-M(4)-08 issued by the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) of the Department of Finance dated November 19, 2008 re-classifying municipalities of the Province of Aklan effective July 29, 2008.
Malay's re-classification was based on Section 2 of Department Order No. 23-08 that states that the income classification of municipalities shall be based on the income brackets as follows: P55 M or more – 1st class; P45M or more but less than 55M – 2nd class; P35M or more but less than 45M – 3rd class; P25M or more but less than P35M- 4th class; P15M or more but less P25M – 5th class; and below P15M – 6th class.
According to LGU-Malay, its average annual income (in million pesos) for CYs 2004-2007 has reached P56.545, which is the reason for its re-classification as a first class municipality – now joining Kalibo.
Too, records of the BLGF showed that Malay placed 2nd in the entire Philippines in the CY 2006 Top Ten Municipalities based on collection from Locally Sourced Income (3rd Income Class category).
LGU-Malay, headed by Mayor Ciceron Cawaling, attributed the achievement of the municipality to investors and tourists who flock Boracay Island year-round, and to the entire Malaynon community. (LGU-Malay/PIA)
TESDA needs more trainees for carpentry, plumbing
Kalibo, Aklan -- Slots are still available for Aklanons who wish to train on carpentry and plumbing provided for free by the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) here.
TESDA is currently providing free training programs for carpentry, welding and plumbing here in coordination with the Congressional District Office (CDO) of Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores, who provided counterpart funds for the trainings.
Congressman Miraflores said the free skills training is TESDA's and the government's response to the economic crisis the country is currently experiencing.
According to Ely Arensol, Technical Education and Skills Development Specialist of TESDA-Aklan, slots are still available for trainees on plumbing and carpentry while those for welding are already filled up. TESDA, however, encourages others interested to train on welding, which is emerging as one of the most in-demand jobs abroad to register, so slots will be reserved for them when another batch is scheduled.
Arensol said trainees are not required to bring anything, as tools, materials and equipment will be provided by TESDA.
"This time, trainees will also receive daily allowances. For carpentry and plumbing, trainees will get P60.00 each daily, while welding trainees will get P100.00 each daily," said Arensol.
In a report provided by TESDA to the provincial government here, it revealed that for 2008, it has allocated about P4.4 million for its various scholarship programs with a total of 565 scholars. These programs include Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA), the President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Training for Work Scholarship (PGMA-TWSP) and Ladderized Education Program (LEP).
On PGMA-TWSP program, a total of 155 were granted scholarship on the following trade areas: Galing Mekaniko (Automotive); Galing Masahista (Massage Therapy); dressmaking, plumbing and shielded metal arc welding.
Free tool kits were distributed to the graduates of Galing Mekaniko Training. Graduates of Galing Masahista and dressmaking also received starter tool kits that they can use in their entrepreneurial activities to make them economically active members of the community.
Meanwhile, the PGMA LEP has a total of 98 scholars enrolled in the food and beverage program. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
TESDA is currently providing free training programs for carpentry, welding and plumbing here in coordination with the Congressional District Office (CDO) of Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores, who provided counterpart funds for the trainings.
Congressman Miraflores said the free skills training is TESDA's and the government's response to the economic crisis the country is currently experiencing.
According to Ely Arensol, Technical Education and Skills Development Specialist of TESDA-Aklan, slots are still available for trainees on plumbing and carpentry while those for welding are already filled up. TESDA, however, encourages others interested to train on welding, which is emerging as one of the most in-demand jobs abroad to register, so slots will be reserved for them when another batch is scheduled.
Arensol said trainees are not required to bring anything, as tools, materials and equipment will be provided by TESDA.
"This time, trainees will also receive daily allowances. For carpentry and plumbing, trainees will get P60.00 each daily, while welding trainees will get P100.00 each daily," said Arensol.
In a report provided by TESDA to the provincial government here, it revealed that for 2008, it has allocated about P4.4 million for its various scholarship programs with a total of 565 scholars. These programs include Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA), the President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Training for Work Scholarship (PGMA-TWSP) and Ladderized Education Program (LEP).
On PGMA-TWSP program, a total of 155 were granted scholarship on the following trade areas: Galing Mekaniko (Automotive); Galing Masahista (Massage Therapy); dressmaking, plumbing and shielded metal arc welding.
Free tool kits were distributed to the graduates of Galing Mekaniko Training. Graduates of Galing Masahista and dressmaking also received starter tool kits that they can use in their entrepreneurial activities to make them economically active members of the community.
Meanwhile, the PGMA LEP has a total of 98 scholars enrolled in the food and beverage program. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
DAR overshoots target in land acquisition, distribution
Kalibo, Aklan –The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) here was able to accomplish 112% of its targets in Land Acquisition and Distribution and was able to distribute 475 hectares of lands to 421 agrarian reform beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).
The gains of contribution of DAR-Aklan were cited by Governor Carlito Marquez when he delivered his State of the Province Address (SOPA) recently.
DAR-Aklan, according to the governor, effectively complemented the priority objective of the province in alleviating poverty particularly in the agrarian sector.
Under DAR’s rural infrastructure program, it was able to rehabilitate and concretize eleven kilometers of farm-to-market roads in the amount of Php 25 million.
“After typhoon Frank in June, DAR-Aklan was one of the national agencies that participated and conducted distribution of relief goods and conducted medical and dental missions in coordination with other agencies and civic organizations,” the governor said.
He also acknowledged the efficiency and the sustainable partnerships forged by the DAR and the local government through Atty. Daniel Y. Martelino, the Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer. (DAR/PIA)
The gains of contribution of DAR-Aklan were cited by Governor Carlito Marquez when he delivered his State of the Province Address (SOPA) recently.
DAR-Aklan, according to the governor, effectively complemented the priority objective of the province in alleviating poverty particularly in the agrarian sector.
Under DAR’s rural infrastructure program, it was able to rehabilitate and concretize eleven kilometers of farm-to-market roads in the amount of Php 25 million.
“After typhoon Frank in June, DAR-Aklan was one of the national agencies that participated and conducted distribution of relief goods and conducted medical and dental missions in coordination with other agencies and civic organizations,” the governor said.
He also acknowledged the efficiency and the sustainable partnerships forged by the DAR and the local government through Atty. Daniel Y. Martelino, the Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer. (DAR/PIA)
Aklan prepares for Women’s Month celebration
Kalibo, Aklan - This province is bracing for this year’s celebration of Women’s Month in March and is initiating a meeting of its Aklan Gender and Development Commission (AGADC) to plan out activities for the observation.
This year’s celebration, according to Governor Carlito S. Marquez, AGADC Chair, is anchored on the theme “Babae, Yaman Ka Ng Bayan”, which highlights the critical role of women in nation-building and recognizes that women are an important resource who can contribute to the reduction of poverty.
“Considering the present global financial crisis, it is timely to tap half of the country’s resource – the women, and create a gender-responsive environment to encourage and support them to venture into high-value and more meaningful economic activities and enterprise development,” Marquez said in his letter to GAD Focal Persons of various offices and organizations here serving as AGADC members.
Presidential Proclamation No. 224 declares the first week of March of every year as Women’s Week, and March 8, 1988 and every year thereafter as women’s Rights and International Peace Day.
For years now, Aklan is regularly observing Women’s Month by conducting motorcade, Holy Mass and a program attended by Aklan leaders, key women officials in the province and local government units, and women’s group’s/organizations ably supported by the National Council for the Welfare of Women. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
This year’s celebration, according to Governor Carlito S. Marquez, AGADC Chair, is anchored on the theme “Babae, Yaman Ka Ng Bayan”, which highlights the critical role of women in nation-building and recognizes that women are an important resource who can contribute to the reduction of poverty.
“Considering the present global financial crisis, it is timely to tap half of the country’s resource – the women, and create a gender-responsive environment to encourage and support them to venture into high-value and more meaningful economic activities and enterprise development,” Marquez said in his letter to GAD Focal Persons of various offices and organizations here serving as AGADC members.
Presidential Proclamation No. 224 declares the first week of March of every year as Women’s Week, and March 8, 1988 and every year thereafter as women’s Rights and International Peace Day.
For years now, Aklan is regularly observing Women’s Month by conducting motorcade, Holy Mass and a program attended by Aklan leaders, key women officials in the province and local government units, and women’s group’s/organizations ably supported by the National Council for the Welfare of Women. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
DOLE initiates CLEEP in Aklan
Kalibo, Aklan – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is initiating moves to implement the Comprehensive Livelihood Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP), a component of the government’s Economic Resiliency Plan.
The Economic Resiliency Plan is the government’s stimulus program.
Joselito dela Banda, Provincial Head of DOLE-Aklan said specific projects for Aklan under CLEEP include Tulong Panghanapbuhay Sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD), and Integrated Service for Livelihood Advancement of Fisherfolks (ISLA).
Three municipalities in the province – Madalag, Libacao and Balete have been identified initially to benefit from TUPAD, while the town of ibajay was identified for ISLA, being a coastal town.
The towns were selected as first beneficiaries of the TUPAD program based on the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) 6’ assessment.
Under the program, fifty residents each from the three towns will be identified for one month (22 days) employment in their municipalities and will be paid based on rates prevailing in the areas.
DOLE, De la Banda said, is allocating P176,00 for Madalag; P198,000 for Libacao, and P176,000 for Balete.
Based on the program guidelines, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will assist respective local government units in identifying beneficiaries of the program. The local government units, for their program counterpart, will shoulder 50% of the social protection benefit of the beneficiaries while Philhealth will shoulder the other 50%. The LGUs will also be required to shoulder one month SSS premium of the beneficiaries.
For its part, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will be providing the skills upgrading component of the program.
“This will be, hopefully, after the beneficiaries had one their one-month emergency employment for further productivity,” said De La Banda.
The work assignments of the beneficiaries will depend on the needs identified by the LGUs.
For faster implementation of the program so needy Aklanons will get the much-needed economic interventions from the government, DOLE-Aklan said the three municipalities must expedite submission of requirements.
According to DOLE, displaced workers or their immediate family members are the target priorities of the program. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
The Economic Resiliency Plan is the government’s stimulus program.
Joselito dela Banda, Provincial Head of DOLE-Aklan said specific projects for Aklan under CLEEP include Tulong Panghanapbuhay Sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD), and Integrated Service for Livelihood Advancement of Fisherfolks (ISLA).
Three municipalities in the province – Madalag, Libacao and Balete have been identified initially to benefit from TUPAD, while the town of ibajay was identified for ISLA, being a coastal town.
The towns were selected as first beneficiaries of the TUPAD program based on the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) 6’ assessment.
Under the program, fifty residents each from the three towns will be identified for one month (22 days) employment in their municipalities and will be paid based on rates prevailing in the areas.
DOLE, De la Banda said, is allocating P176,00 for Madalag; P198,000 for Libacao, and P176,000 for Balete.
Based on the program guidelines, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will assist respective local government units in identifying beneficiaries of the program. The local government units, for their program counterpart, will shoulder 50% of the social protection benefit of the beneficiaries while Philhealth will shoulder the other 50%. The LGUs will also be required to shoulder one month SSS premium of the beneficiaries.
For its part, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will be providing the skills upgrading component of the program.
“This will be, hopefully, after the beneficiaries had one their one-month emergency employment for further productivity,” said De La Banda.
The work assignments of the beneficiaries will depend on the needs identified by the LGUs.
For faster implementation of the program so needy Aklanons will get the much-needed economic interventions from the government, DOLE-Aklan said the three municipalities must expedite submission of requirements.
According to DOLE, displaced workers or their immediate family members are the target priorities of the program. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
DOLE monitoring effects of global financial crisis in local firms
Kalibo, Aklan – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) here is currently monitoring firms and establishments which might be affected already by the global financial crisis.
Joselito De la Banda, DOLE – Aklan Provincial Head said this is necessary to avert retrenchment of employees or closure of establishments.
De La Banda said DOLE has a Quick Response Team (QRT ) ready to assist employees and employers who are apprehensive on the state of their establishments and working status.
Through the QRT, De La Banda said employers may get solutions to prevent closure or retrenchment of employees, such as reduction of work days, flexible working time, and utilization of leave credits, until such time when the company is stable enough to operate normally.
The national government, on the other hand, is readying various measures to help and assist displaced/retrenched workers as well as companies affected by the global economic meltdown.
These measures, enumerated by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in her speech during the Multi-Sectoral Jobs Summit in Malacanang recently, include the condonation of SSS on penalties and surcharges on loans of affected workers; establishment of stand-by fund by DOLE and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for displaced OFWs, implementation of training programs, reduction of cost of doing business by providing fuel subsidy to firms operating in the export business; having the government financial institutions provide loan facilities such as working capital, etc,
Just recently, the government also announced that it is going to spend P7 billion to hire 180,000 contractual employees.
Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya said these government vacancies have already been allocated funds for the purpose of hiring personnel, and these are in addition to the plans of Malacanang to order government agencies to set aside 1.5 percent of their maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOEs), estimated at P7 billion to hire 180,000 casual employees for six months. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Joselito De la Banda, DOLE – Aklan Provincial Head said this is necessary to avert retrenchment of employees or closure of establishments.
De La Banda said DOLE has a Quick Response Team (QRT ) ready to assist employees and employers who are apprehensive on the state of their establishments and working status.
Through the QRT, De La Banda said employers may get solutions to prevent closure or retrenchment of employees, such as reduction of work days, flexible working time, and utilization of leave credits, until such time when the company is stable enough to operate normally.
The national government, on the other hand, is readying various measures to help and assist displaced/retrenched workers as well as companies affected by the global economic meltdown.
These measures, enumerated by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in her speech during the Multi-Sectoral Jobs Summit in Malacanang recently, include the condonation of SSS on penalties and surcharges on loans of affected workers; establishment of stand-by fund by DOLE and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for displaced OFWs, implementation of training programs, reduction of cost of doing business by providing fuel subsidy to firms operating in the export business; having the government financial institutions provide loan facilities such as working capital, etc,
Just recently, the government also announced that it is going to spend P7 billion to hire 180,000 contractual employees.
Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya said these government vacancies have already been allocated funds for the purpose of hiring personnel, and these are in addition to the plans of Malacanang to order government agencies to set aside 1.5 percent of their maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOEs), estimated at P7 billion to hire 180,000 casual employees for six months. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)