GOLDEN CHRONICLE
Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro to mark 60 years
Special Envoy of the President for Trade Negotiations Donald G. Dee graces joint induction ceremonies of Club Officers of Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro and the Anns of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro…
By URIEL C. QUILINGUING
Executive Editor
RC OF CAGAYAN DE ORO LEADERS. Officers and board members of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro and the Rotary Anns of Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro led by president Eduardo Melchor “Ed” R. Palad (5th from left) and president Bernadette “Bern” M. Gabaon (5th from right), respectively.
NEXT year, on
And since the Rotary Year starts in the month of July, the new officers of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro and the Rotary Anns of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro had to be inducted in so that they can formally assume their respective positions and start performing their functions. The joint induction ceremony was held last Saturday,
Edgardo Melchor “Ed” Palad assumed as president of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro vice the immediate past president John Mark F. Sarraga while Bernadette “
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Palad said he is ready to take the challenge of leadership knowing pretty well he has the support of other officers, the members as well as his family.
“Life like the Rotary wheel, will continue to turn, roll and be in constant motion. The important thing I believe is to capture the moment when our turn comes and do the very best we can to serve,” said the newly-inducted president
He said he ascend the presidency with confidence, claiming he has with him the bedrock of faith, the synergy, the collective effort and teamwork of the new set of club officers and members of the board.
Meanwhile, immediate past president John Mark F. Sarraga said that his greatest pride is to belong to the 60 or so Rotarians whom he had the privilege of serving as their club president.
Sarraga opted not to enumerate what the Club did during his term. Instead, he emphatically said: “We did it!”
Other officers of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro are: Hubert Quiblat, vice-president; Glenn Edward Dael, secretary; Sydney Thaddeus Yap, treasurer; Ian Mark Nacaya, Stalin Baguio, Dexter Bandera, Joseph Cuevas and Luigi Sarraga - directors; Antonio Acupan, president-elect; Dietmark Schug, protocol officer, Silvano Maranga, public relations officer; and Cesar Magallanes, auditor.
Other officers of the Rotary Anns of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro are: Luz Pamparo, vice-president; Jenita C. Bernasor, secretary; Angelu Bandera, assistant secretary; Angelie Mae Dael, treasurer; Zenith Cuevas, assistant treasurer; Biema Along, Ramona Heidi C. Palad, Boots Baguio and Nora Villamala – directors.
Immediate past presidents John Mark F. Sarraga and Rizaflor D. Sarraga also sits in the board of the Rotary Club and in the Rotary Anns, respectively.
All the officers were inducted into office by District Governor Wilfredo “Fred” A. Alqueza II after past assistant governor Francisco Sarraga and Ann past president Malou dela Cruz had the honor of charging them into their respective positions.
District Governor Alqueza, in his inspirational talk, said he is impressed by the performance of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro and the leadership it continues to manifest in the district.
He said that scanning the list of those to be inducted in as new members he is already certain that the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro can easily accomplish its membership recruitment goal of 10 percent.
"Your club and members is the epitome of what Service Above Self is, being the oldest club of RI District 3870 and still going very strong in sharing Rotary for the past sixty years is worth emulating,” the district governor said.
No less than the Special Envoy of the President for Trade Negotiations, Ambassador Donald G. Dee was the guest of honor and speaker of the special occasion. He opted to give a power-point presentation on the state of the economy of the
Aside from his ambassadorial post, Mr. Dee is chair of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and of the Confederation of Garments Exporters of the Philippines, Inc. (Congep).
Subsequently, past district governor and Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro president Constantino Jaraula inducted Mr. Dee, together with Misamis Oriental governor Oscar S. Moreno and
Clearly, many of the officers and members already had their hands full during the joint induction ceremony—the longest program in recent years, some say—which ended at
Renown pianists to perform in Soloists Series at the Rodelsa
Maestro Reynaldo Reyes will have the honor of performing on Saturday, July 14, while other celebrated pianists—Raul Sunico on Sept. 1, Rudolf Golez on Oct. 6, and Russell Brandon on Dec. 1, all this year.
EMINENT pianist Reynaldo Reyes will kick off the Soloists’ Concert Series with a piano recital at the Rodelsa Hall on July 14, 2007 at eight in the evening, the Office of the Cultural and Public Affairs of Liceo de Cagayan University announced.
Mr. Reyes is a winner in many international contests, notably the International Piano Competition in Bolzano, Italy and the Marguerite Long-Jacques Thibaud Internationale Piano Competition in Paris, France. He had piano concerts in Germany, France, Italy, England, Russia, Hungary, Brazil, Canada, Indonesia, Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, Philippines, and the United States.
He gave three solo concerts for the centennial celebration of the Philippine Independence. In October 1998, he gave a recital in New York at the Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church with Zoltan Szabo, played a violin and piano recital at Van Ness Center in Washington, District of Columbia and performed at Oak Crest Village Concert Hall. In November, he performed a solo concert at Texas Christian University. He was also voted the Ten Most Outstanding Filipinos of the United States of America and Canada in 1995 by the Filipino Magazine in Washington, DC.
He, along with Ingrid Santamaria, has an on-going 14th Concert tour-lecture all over the Philippines on the theme of the Importance of Listening to Classical Music.
Mr. Reyes has introduced many integral works in the Philippines such as the Goldberg Variations of Bach, the complete 24 Etudes, the four Ballades, and the complete 24 Preludes of Chopin, the complete Iberia Suite of Albeniz, the 24 Preludes of Debussy, the 24 Preludes of Alkan, the Paganini-Liszt Etudes, an entire Greek Spanish, French, Poulenc, Ravel, Beethoven, and an all Variations recitals.
He also gave master classes at the University of the Philippines, St. Scholastica College, Miriam College, and the Batangas Center for the Arts whenever he is in the country. At present he is a professor at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas, USA.
SOLOISTS SERIES: Live Piano Concert Performances at Liceo U
This year, local audiences will again be enthralled with the presence of four celebrated Filipino pianists on different occasions at Liceo de Cagayan University when world-class Rodelsa Hall opens its season offering this coming Saturday, July 14, 2007 at 8 P.M.
Upcoming performances will include Mr. Raul Sunico’s performance on Sept. 1, Mr. Rudolf Golez on October 6, and Mr. Russel Brandon on Dec. 1, 2007.
For details, please get in touch with the Office of the Cultural and Public Affairs, Liceo de Cagayan University, Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City. Tel.: (88) 858-4093 to 95, local 249 and 150. Celfone: 09276656700 Email: rainneri@yahoo.com
SMFI donates books to Bukidnon schools
Publishedl June12-18, 2007 issue
Recipients of books are 76 public schools, 26 daycare centers
By URIEL C. QUILINGUING
Executive Editor
MALAYBALAY CITY – SM Foundation, Inc., with the support of Bato Balani Foundation, donated some 8,180 books to 74 public elementary and secondary schools and 26 daycare centers in the province of Bukidnon on Monday, June 18, this year.
SMFI project director Cristie Angeles turned over the books to Bukidnon division schools superintendent Gloria Benigno during a ceremony at the schools division training center here.
Angeles, in her message, said the books were collected by SM Foundation through its “Donate a Book” project from the various SM stores nationwide.
One of the consistent donors, she said, is Bato Balani Foundation which has been supporting the “Donate a Book” project since it started in 1997.
Also, hundreds of SM customers have been extending their assistance to the project with their used yet still usable books, most of these from privately-owned elementary and secondary schools.
She said she knew of an SM customer who, aside from donating the books of her children would even buy new ones to augment what already had.
Angeles said SMFI also has a scholarship program where poor yet deserving students from Bukidnon could avail of, a Donate-a-School Project, Make a Child Happy, Share Your Extras, livelihood trainings, medical and dental missions, and relief assistance during calamities.
Meanwhile, Malaybalay city mayor Florencio Flores Jr., who graced the turn-over ceremony, urged recipient schools representatives to make sure the books would be available to students.
These books, Flores said, should not only be kept in libraries to gather dusts since these are repository of knowledge which, if fully utilized, could lead to the transformation of individuals to become successful in their chosen careers.
Representatives of the 26 daycare centers, all under the leadership of city social welfare and development officer Virginia Flores, received the reading materials.
Of the 74 public schools, there were 60 elementary and 14 secondary schools who received books for their respective libraries.
For her part, in her acceptance talk, superintendent Benigno said the schools division of Bukidnon is fortunate to have been chosen by SM Foundation as beneficiary of its “Donate A Book” project.
“I hope this is not only the first and the last,” the schools superintendent said, adding that they shall be preparing a project proposal for possible availment of a two-room school-building project of SM Foundation.
Aside from Mayor Flores, SM City Cagayan de Oro assistant mall manager Melissa Cucueco and public relations officer Ivy Guantero, SM Foundation project officer Andy Quiñones, assistant schools superintendent Emmalinda E. Duhaylungsod, education supervisor for elementary schools George Madroñal, and administrative officer Adolfo Torres also witnessed the turnover rites.
“Donate a Book” and other SMFI projects are also being supported by various media organizations and outfits, among them are the Cagayan de Oro Press Club, Mindanao Goldstar Daily, Sunstar Cagayan de Oro and the Golden Chronicle.
Giving children a vision what their future will be
Published: June 5-11, 2007 issue
Janvie credits the big change in his life to World Vision which molded him – and hundreds of other children – to become responsible and empowered citizens in his community in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental.
By TERRY D.C. BETONIO
Contributing Editor
SIX years ago, Janvie S. Amido don’t even know how to use and hold a microphone. He doesn’t want to talk to other people and always stay inside their house.
Now, Janvie is a board of trustee of Mindanao Coalition of Children’s Association in the Philippines (MiCCAP), a coalition that represents four non-governmental organizations namely Plan Philippines, Education Research Development Association, Christian Children’s Fund and World Vision.
He is also the chairperson of Misamis Oriental Coalition of Children’s Association.
Janvie credits the big change in his life to World Vision which molded him – and hundreds of other children – to become responsible and empowered citizens in his community in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental.
“Because of my participation with World Vision, I now know how to facilitate and had known deeply who is Jesus Christ,” Janvie said, who was one of the participants to the 3rd Mindanao Children’s Congress held May 21 to 25 at Harbor Lights Hotel in Cagayan de Oro.
Janvie started as a member of Barangay Children’s Association (BCA) in San Martin, Villanueva. His membership to the BCA opened the door to numerous trainings, team building activities and facilitation workshops.
Six years after he joined the BCA, he has gained self-confidence and participated in a lot of activities.
The BCAs are formed under World Vision Philippines in cooperation with the local government units.
World Vision is a Christian development, relief and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities all over the world.
Janvie said the BCAs focus on child development specifically on the spiritual aspect, family and community development, health and education.
In Northwestern Mindanao, there are 129 BCAs as of 2006 and five are located in San Martin, five in Balingasag and one in Camaman-an in Cagayan de Oro with more than 100 members which Janvie heads, being the chair of the Misamis Oriental Coalition of Children’s Associations.
Dilsy Arbutante, director of Children in Ministry of World Vision Philippines, said World Vision conducts trainings, team building sessions, seminars for facilitation, children’s congress and kids’ fellowships to leaders of children’s associations in the barangay, municipal and provinces all over the country.
BCA consists of at least 30 members aged 10 to 17 years. Arbutante said leaders of BCAs get to attend activities spearheaded by World Vision such as the 3rd Mindanao Children’s Congress.
The Mindanao-wide congress was held to promote solidarity and community participation among children. It was attended by youth leaders from eight provinces in Mindanao where World Vision implements community development programs and peace building initiatives.
During the congress, the children participated in various workshops on painting, music, culinary arts and bead making.
They also reviewed the accomplishments and challenges of children’s associations at the barangay, municipal and provincial levels.
The Congress is a prelude to the National Children’s Congress to be held in April 2008 in celebration with World Vision’s 50 years of ministry in the Philippines.
Santacruzan at Kauswagan
Published: May 29- June 4, 2007 issue
Eco-Church was festive Tuesday afternoon when a concelebrated Holy Mass was held and immediately followed by a Santacruzan that was highlighted by the presentation and coronation of Reyna Helena and her court, a floral offering to the Blessed Virgin Mother and then the novena procession to remember the finding of the Holy Cross.
Text by URIEL C. QUILINGUING
Photographs by IAN ROY T. RUIZ
REYNA ELENA 2007. Ms. Belen Ablanque of the Couples for Christ with her escort, her spouse Jun Ablangue, preparing for the novena procession, May 29, 2007 in front of Eco-Church, Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City. Photo by IAN ROY T. RUIZ
MAY 29 was Tuesday and yet the Eco-Church in Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City was full of parishioners belonging to a parish which the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro created three years ago, in honor of San Isidro Labrador.
At about two in the afternoon, a concelebrated mass was held with Reverend Fathers Jose Daniel D. Coronel, Roel V. Buntol, and Ruel M. Buhisan as co-celebrants.
The atmosphere was festive from the start since there was a procession of angels—young girls from as young as three to seven--and followed by catechists, each holding an enlarged letter which, once set together, formed two words — AVE MARIA.
Obviously, the celebration of the Holy Eucharist that afternoon was in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mother. And the event was even more solemn since the hymns were sung by the San Isidro Labrador all-male choir, whose members belong to the Knights of Columbus Council 13546 under the leadership of Sir Knight Dante B. Pajo, the grand knight.
Indeed, the occasion was for Mother Mary since the Holy Mass was immediately followed by offering of flowers to Her and a novena procession, which are traditionally known as Flores de Mayo and Santacruzan, respectively.
Flores is a Spanish word for flowers, hence Flores de Mayo is “Flowers of May.” Before, it was called Flores de Maria of “Flowers of Mary.” In other parts of the world, the celebration is known as Flower Festival as a fitting tribute to Mary.
The other activity, Santacruzan is a novena procession to recall the mystical finding of the Holy Cross by Helena, the mother of Constantine the Great, who was later canonized as saint. At 75, at about 326 AD, she went to Jerusalem and proceeded to the Calvary to look for the Cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Diggings were done and finally she found the three crosses and one of which was the one that belonged to Jesus Christ, that which cured the sickness of Helena’s servant.
In a festive reenactment of the finding of the cross that afternoon, the master of ceremony, former ABS-CBN TV patrol reporter Kim Quilinguing, called on the 14 participating ladies—declared as queens--and their escorts, led by the Reyna Elena of 2006, Lady Ester Baustista with her spouse Sir Knight Rene Bautista.
After the 13 ladies shall have been crowned according to their respective titles, the Reyna Elena of 2007 was presented, Ms. Belen Ablanque, who represented the Couples for Christ of the San Isidro Labrador Parish. Her escort was her spouse, Jun Ablanque.
Sir Knight Luceno Gono and his spouse, Becky, Sir Knight Pedro D. Balite and Sir Knight Dante Pajo gave the Reyna Elena 2007 her trophy, bouquet and certificate of award while Father Dann Coronel and Sir Knight Ernesto B. San Juan, shared the honor of putting on the crown and donning of the cape to her.
Reyna Elena 2007’s court was composed of the 13 other ladies, namely: Ms. Elsa Reyes of the K of C Council 13546, Reyna Rosa Mystica; Ms. Tita Cagulada of the Extraordinary Ministers of the Holy Communion, Reyna de las Estrellas; Ms. Josephine Fernandez of Kauswagan proper, Reyna de los Angeles; Ms. Rowena Adame of Barangay Bonbon, Reyna Esther; Ms. Malou Seno of National Housing Authority-Kauswagan, Reyna Samaritan; Ms. Carmen Abarientos of Villa Cristo Rey, Reyna de las Flores; Ms. Flordeliza Serot of Dalus, Reyna Mora; Ms. Mary Ann Veloso of Barangay Bayabas, Reyna Justicia; Ms. Rosalita Boniel of Kabina Chapter, Reyna Divina Pastora; Ms. Elizabeth Mabulay of Perpetual Dun Rosary, Reyna Banderada; Ms. Vergie Cañasa who represented the Catechists, Reyna Caridad; and Ms. Juliet Corpuz of Puntabon Chapter, Reyna Fe.
After the coronation rites, Sir Knight Pedro D. Balite, the district deputy C-35 of the Knights of Columbus, and Sir Knight Ernesto B. San Juan, Mindanao Deputy of the Knights of Columbus, gave their respective messages.
While Sir Knight Balite acknowledged all participating chapels and organizations of the San Isidro Labrador Parish, Sir Knight San Juan extended his congratulations to the officers and members of the K of C Council 13546 for spearheading the Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo projects.
Sir Knight San Juan thanked them for supporting him as Mindanao Deputy and that before his term ends next month, Council 13546 shall by then have received all the awards that the Supreme Council of the Knights of Columbus could confer even if it was organized only three years ago.
Reyna Elena 2007 Ms Belen Ablanque, assisted by former Reyna Elen titlists Esther Bautista and Vivian Dayot, offered flowers and croed the Blessed Virgin Mother as Queen of Heaven and Earth.
After a while, and after Sir Knight Rene Bautista’s serenade of songs to the newly-crowned queens, the entourage then proceeded to novena procession which is the real essence of Santacruzan. Those who were there could aptly say that Tuesday afternoon was devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mother and in venerating the Holy Cross.
Mandaue Children’s Choir performs on Mothers Day
Published: May 22-28, 2007 issue
The 23-member children’s choir – whose ages range from six to 13 years – sang songs of praise, hope and success as its members convey the messages for mothers as well as for unity between Christians and Muslims through music.
By TERRY D.C. BETONIO
Contributing Editor
MOTHER'S Day at SM City Cagayan de Oro was filled with songs and dances as the Mandaue School for the Arts Children’s Choir held a rather extraordinary performance at the Activity Center on Friday, May 11.
The 23-member children’s choir – whose ages range from six to 13 years – sang songs of praise, hope and success as they convey the message that the youth is the hope of the mothers and that Christians and Muslims unite through music.
Included in the group’s repertoire are songs such as “Sinulog,” “Salmo 150,” “Akakomborerwa,” “Ampeu Shelo Heo,” “Alleluia,” “Everytime I Feel the Spirit,” “Vochong,” “Tilibum,” “Ang Tatay Ko,” “Tubod,” “Sabihin Mong Tagumpay ng Iisang Lahi” and “Paglaum.”
Rhuella Nicole Doromal soulfully gave a rendition of the song “When You Wish Upon a Star” before the group collectively serenaded the guests with such songs as “Reflection” from the movie Mulan, “When You Believe” from the movie The Prince of Egypt, “The Lonely Goatherd,” “I am but a small voice,” “Tomorrow,” “The Sound of Music,” “Better World” and “A Light of a Million Mornings.”
Adding enjoyment to the activity, which is SM City Cagayan de Oro’s tribute to Mother’s Day, was the graceful performance of 2007 Dancesport regional champion Bernalyn Dacayana and Jovemar Ababon.
Musical director and conductor Dennis Gregory Sugarol was able to bring out the talents of the world-class children’s choir.
The Mandaue School for the Arts Children’s Choir already has numerous awards to boast. It won first prize in the National Music Competition for Young Artists held on Nov. 27, 2004 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and was a recipient of the Garbo sa Sugbo Award in 2004.
The group has also been chosen as ambassadors of goodwill for the MSA Children’s Choir U.S. Tour and visited Fort Collins and Denver in Colorado, Salt Lake City in Utah, and Los Angeles in California.
During the Asean Summit held in Cebu in January 2007, the group also performed in the gala night dinner with world-renowned artist Ms. Lea Salonga.
Fearless team conquer rough roads in 23 days
Malyn Rita B. Molina, account director of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide, said the Ford Ranger has already been launched in Manila in November 2006 but Ford wants to bring and show off the capability of the vehicle to its clients in the provinces through the 23-day fearless extreme drive.
BY TERRY D.C. BETONIO
Contributing Editor
A five-member team of veteran off-roaders is out to conquer the rough, rugged and smooth terrain of the country’s 44 provinces and 15 regions in 23 days on board the Ford Ranger for the Ford fearless extreme drive.
Christopher Vargas, a professional 4x4 instructor, said they kicked off on April 17 in Santa Rosa, Laguna and had so far traveled the provinces of Cavite, Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Samar, Tacloban, Sarangani, Bukidnon and Cotabato.
“We are on our 9th day now and we have traveled around one-third of our journey. It’s called the fearless extreme drive because even though we have passed through the rough terrain of Samar, the Ford Ranger is still okay and running well at a speed of between 80 to 120 kilometers per hour. We have covered nearly a thousand kilometers,” Vargas said in a press conference held on Wednesday, April 25, at the Ford showroom in Kauswagan.
Vargas, who was a member of the Philippine team to the Rainforest Challenge in Malaysia, said they are not doing a continuous run since they also take tourist stops along the way.
On the average, he said the team – on board two Ford Ranger vehicles – is running about 400 to 500 kilometers a day starting off at 3:00 a.m. as wake up call and ends at between 9:00 to 10:00 in the evening to take their much-needed rest at hotels.
Along the long stretch of roads like the highway from Digos to Sarangani, Vargas said they are running so fast, going to as high as 180 kilometers per hour.
From Cagayan de Oro, the team will travel to Bacolod, Cebu, Bohol, Aklan, Mindoro and back to Luzon to end the 23-day extreme drive at Mt. Pinatubo.
Aside from Vargas, the other members of the fearless Ranger team include Larry Mendiola, a multi-awarded driver for 4x4 motorsports who was also a part of the Philippine team to the Rainforest Challenge in Malaysia; Paul and Gigi Javier who are experts in 4x4 vehicle modification and customization; and Chito Acosta, also an expert in 4x4 motorsports.
Malyn Rita B. Molina, account director of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide, said the Ford Ranger has already been launched in Manila in November 2006 but Ford wants to bring and show off the capability of the vehicle to its clients in the provinces through the 23-day fearless extreme drive.
This, she said, is to show that the Ford Ranger can weather all forms of terrain – rough or smooth – without affecting its performance.
Sponsors
‘Beauty is in the heart’
Seven-year old Angela Mariz almost totally resembles the looks, refine movements and chubby physique of her mother, the 44-year old Gina Obsina, hence the judges unanimously selected them to receive the grand prize of P10,000-worth of SM gift certificates.
By AMOR C. KHO
Contributor
A make-over can work wonders for those who wish to enhance one’s image—skin bleaching and toning, a little shade and lines here and there to highlight facial features, and a hairstyle with the application of colorful dye and accented with curls. Once these are complete comes the choice of what to wear. Clothes that are either in plain, monochromatic, light and dark colors or combination, or printed in stripe, dotted or floral. Footwear may be sandals, high or low-heeled shoes, or a pair of slippers. Then comes the accessories--earrings, necklace, bracelets and other fashionable put-ons. Of course, one must also learn how to do a catwalk, perform graceful poses and a variety of smiles on cam.
Many, if not all the 16 finalists of the Mother and Daughter Look-Alike Contest at SM City Cagayan de Oro’s Event Centre last Sunday, May 13, could have gone thru all these since the presentation of was packaged like a mini-fashion show.
Mother and Daughter Look-Alike Contest was a timely activity for Mother’s Day celebration which was ushered in by the impressive performance of the
And, just like in any competition, the highest possible score the board of judges could give is a 100 percent and these are based on a criteria. For look-alike contests, the resemblance between the mother and her daughter gets the biggest percentage point accounting for 80 percent: actual resemblance, 40 percent; and photogenic resemblance, 40 percent. Participating mother and daughter tandems were required to submit their recent full-color photographs. Then, once they are on the ramp and are interviewed by the master of ceremonies, they would be rated again for projection and audience impact, both with maximum 10 percentage points.
It may sound simple but it took the three judges—all pretty and successful women in their own right--over an hour before they could announced the results. Ms. Madelene M. Ravago of
Forty-four year old Mrs. Gina Obsina and her daughter, the seven-year old Angela Mariz, were not as stunning as the other mother-and-daughter tandems but they got the nod of the judges who collectively gave them a relatively high rating of 93 percent and emerged as the grand winner for the title, a bouquet of fresh red roses, and the P10,000-worth of SM gift certificates. Though they were not wearing the same style of clothes yet they perfectly resemble each other—the rounded shape of their faces as well as their facial features, including the pony-tailed black and straight hair. Their smiles are reserved. They both have refined and calculated moves.
Just a percentage point away is the tandem of Mrs. Armi Mae Dael and her daughter, Celine Mae, who were wearing the same violet-colored dresses. They got the second place honors, a bouquet of fresh roses and the P7,000-worth of SM gift certificates. While Mrs. Christy Marie Capinpuyan, who has the looks of a former beauty queen being fair-skinned and relatively tall, and her pretty daughter, Shania, copped the third place and received also a bouquet of red roses and P5,000-worth of SM gift certificates.
SM City Cagayan de Oro marketing manager Globien Salcedo handed out to them the gift certificates. Aside from SM City Cagayan de Oro, the Mother and Daughter Look-Alike Contest is co-sponsored by
Other participating mother-and-daughter tandems were Mrs. Leonor G. Bautista and Angelika Marie, Mrs. Grezielda Y. Rivas and Anjanette Thea, Mrs. Olga B. Evejer and Ma. Angelika Beatrize, Mrs. Retchel Diez and Alexia Yurie, Mrs. Mercedita Apdian and Daryl Joy, Mrs. Maria Carmella Lee and Samantha, Mrs. Sharon Pet Casamayor and Anxiel, Mrs. Mary Grace Pameron-Panis and Hadassah Marie, Mrs. Jenith Deinla and Faye Dianne, Mrs. Marilou Abaquita and Mary Chris, Mrs. Jailyn Buhayan and GJ Pauline, Mrs. Annabelle Quito Oblina and Michelle Angela, Mrs. Melania G. Gille and Rizzamare, and Mrs. Jocelyn Hioko and Rica Joy.
To qualify, mothers must be between 20 to 45 years old while their daughters must be from three to 18 years old.
Indeed, choosing from them who the winners will be was difficult. They all somehow resemble with each other because of physical features and attires. But looks can be deceiving.
“Beauty is in the heart,” says Mrs. Gina Obsina after she and her daughter were proclaimed winner in the contest. Such phrase says it all and it explains why they were chosen by the judges.
Oro to host Kerygma Feast once again
Published: May 1-7, 2007 issue
The local chapter of Light of Jesus Community hosted the last three Kerygma Feasts and due to the successes the group is hosting the feast once again on May 11--incidentally just three days before the midterm elections.
By IAN ROY RUIZ
Senior Reporter
INSPIRING EVANGELIST. Spirited Bro. Bo Sanchez sharing his reflective yet practical thoughts about life and one’s relation with others and God. Photo by IAN ROY T. RUIZ
FOR the second time, the Light of Jesus (LOJ) Community Cagayan de Oro chapter will be hosting the Kerygma Feast and this will be on May 11 at the Atrium of Limketkai Center in Cagayan de Oro. It will start at six in the evening.
Just like last year, all seats are expected to be occupied and that would be no less than four thousand souls. They shall be coming from various religious organizations.
Brother Bo Sanchez, founder of Light of Jesus Community will talk on ‘How to Bless Your Life with Abundance’ amidst the festive atmosphere of worship songs, gleeful dance movements and solemn prayer.
These worship songs will be led by the Couples for Christ’s Capitol Band members Jun Foronda on acoustic guitar, Meloy Arce and Marty Atienza on keyboards, Ding Diaz on bass guitar and Jingay Seriño on drums while guitarist Noel Villanueva will play the lead.
Vocalists will be Jacky Seriño, Brenda Foronda, Neneng Pungtod and Bebot Pungtod.
This is the fourth time that Cagayan de Oro is hosting the event since 2004. Hence, Kerygma Feast is a regular monthly religious activity of the Light of Jesus Community in Cebu and in Manila.
Sanchez, who founded the Light of Jesus in 1982 while he was still 13 years old started the ANAWIM Foundation, a special ministry for the poor that aims to provide home for the abandoned elderly and children.
He also established the Shepherds Voice Publication, a media ministry that publishes one of the most widely circulated Catholic literatures in the country, and organized the LOJ training center for a teaching institute that aims to impart truth through seminars and workshops all over the country.
He pioneered the organization of lay Catholics that paved the way for the establishment of the LOJ Counseling Center.
Kerygma Feast is open to all interested individuals. Tickets are sold at P30 which would serve as donation. These are available at the Limketkai service center.
For other details, please contact Sister Patty Lao at 09189078508 and 232-4377 or Sister Gladys Muñez at 09275791476 and 232-4491 or visit www.freewebs.com/lightofjesuscdo.
Gospel music ministry to raise funds for indigents
By IAN ROY RUIZ
Senior Reporter
MUSIC SENSE. Morioka City-based Nimfa Gabales-Yahaba, a native of Talisayan, Misamis Oriental, showing her keen sense of music during a performance at VIP Hotel, Cagayan de Oro. Photo by IAN ROY T. RUIZ
THE Praise Power Gospel Music Ministry (PPGMM), in cooperation with the Parish Church of the Resurrection (ICCEC), will hold its first concert for the indigent families and children in the community this coming May 11-12 at the Rodelsa Hall at Liceo de Cagayan University.
Bearing the theme “ Unity through Music for Peace and Poverty”, the PPGMM’s community outreach program is under the Pastoral Care Ministry. Proceeds will benefit families and children in communities that are located in Barangays Nazareth, Carmen, Camaman-an, Lapasan and Sta. Ana, Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.
This will be an evening of inspirational gospel music to be spearheaded by a renowned gospel singer and musician and backed by the United Nation’s Children’s Fund (Unicef) ambassador of goodwill Ms. Nimfa Gabales-Yahaba who is based in Morioka City, Japan.
Ms. Yahaba is a native of Talisayan, Misamis Oriental. She is the daughter of Mr. Fernando Almendras Gabales, a former deputy governor of Davao during 1940’s.
A chemical engineering graduate of Cagayan de Oro College (COC), now known as PHINMA Education Network, Ms. Gabales’ family members are known for their love for music. She studied standard jazz and became an exclusive pianist of Davao Insular Hotel and Hotel Maguindanao.
In 1983, when her husband died, she begun to feel the charm in the Christian music and lately become a preacher after having a license in the Miracle Life Fellowship International in Phoenix, Arizona.
She also took a world mission course in 1991 in Davao and acts as music missionary in various places in the Philippines.
It was in 2001 when she remarried to Mr. Reigi Yahaba of Japan and the following year 2002 marked a legacy for her after since she became the grand champion for original composition and singing competition in Sedai, Japan.
In 2003, she founded the Praise Power Gospel in Morioka, Japan where she is currently the president.
Avon takes a closer look at women empowerment
Published; April24-30, 2007 issue
Launched in time to celebrate International Women’s Day, Hello Tomorrow gives Avon not just a new look but also a new perspective, one that makes the brand more contemporary for today’s multifaceted women and gives them even more opportunities to fulfill their dreams.
NEWS BRIEFING. Louie Migne of
NO one takes women empowerment as seriously as
“Hello Tomorrow is Avon’s opportunity to inspire and engage those around us, to speak in one voice with one contemporary look,” said Andrea Jung, chairman and chief executive officer of Avon Products Inc. “Hello Tomorrow is our chance to communicate how
“Hello Tomorrow will bring a new look, style and approach as we contemporize our business to remain the premier and number one diect company in the Philippines,” said Bob M. Briddon, General Manager of Avon Philippines. “It is fitting that we are launching Hello Tomorrow to the public on International Women’s Day as we thank our associates and our Avon Ladies for their dedication and commitment that enables
A major component of the Hello Tomorrow campaign is the 2007 Avon Worldwide Women’s Poll—a new international survey of women measuring life satisfaction and empowerment. In conjunction with International Women’s Day, the 16 country poll of 8,000 women in unprecedented in scope and size. The 2007 Avon Worldwide Women’s Empowerment Index—the first of its kind—analyzed women’s perceptions about six dimensions of their lives, yielding a single, world-wide women’s empowerment score.
HELLO TOMORROW FUND
In addition to
The Hello Tomorrow Fund is a grant program that will give additional resources to 12 individuals and organizations that implement projects for the benefit of women (or girls). One hundred thousand pesos (PhP100,000) will be given to a selected individual or nonprofit organization.
Programs that fall under the areas of community development and awareness and outreach can qualify for the grant, provided that the individual applicant is at least 21 years old and a Filipino citizen, or duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in the case of organizations.
The community service grant will be given to help expand current nonprofit projects that help women realize their full potential or overcome obstacles. The awareness and outreach grant will go to programs that inspire women to succeed by making information about women’s issues more public. Apart form this grant, the selected individuals or nonprofit organizations will be recognized through
The first awards grantee will be from Metro Manila. Deadline for submission of Metro Manila applications to any Avon Metro Manila Branch is set on April 15. The grantee will be announced on May 15. Applicants from Visayas and
Full details of the program are found in the application forms that are available at
Women outnumber men in public service
Published: April 10-16, 2007 issue
Majority of government personnel in the region are women, about three-fifths of them are in national government agencies. While men still hold majority of first level positions, women are starting to break the glass ceiling with more women holding career positions…
By TERRY D.C. BETONIO
Contributing Editor
A staunch advocate on gender issues says that while there is now an increasing participation of women in both the formal and informal sectors of the labor force, problems affecting their productivity and income shares are still very evident.
Casimira V. Balandra, a gender advocate and the regional director of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) in Northern Mindanao, said gender-tracking in employment continues to hold true in the region.
She said women still dominate occupations that may be considered as extensions of their reproductive and domestic roles in industries such as wholesale and retail trade, hotels and restaurants, education, health and social work, and private households.
She added that farming, forestry and fishing, service works, plant and machine operations, trades and related work and other special occupations were mainly the work of men.
“Filipino men in the region are likely to be waged, salaried and self-employed workers while women are likely to be unpaid family workers,” Balandra said, who was one of the guest speakers during the culmination of the Women’s Month celebration on Wednesday, March 28, at SM City.
She said female labor force participation in the region is only 61.2 percent compared to men with 83.9 percent.
She added that only 41 out of 100 employed persons in Northern Mindanao are women.
However, Balandra claimed that there is good news in the area of government service since in Region 10, significant developments have provided women access to the decision-making structures.
“Majority of government personnel in the region are women, about three-fifths of them are in national government agencies. While men still hold majority of first level positions, women are starting to break the glass ceiling with more women holding career positions and it is no coincidence that Neda-10 is managed by two women,” Balandra said, who recently won two national awards – the Presidential Lingkod Bayan and the Most Outstanding CEO.
She claimed that Region 10 has long been in the forefront of producing women leaders.
She said in as early as 1940, Elisa R. Ochoa from Misamis Occidental was the first woman representative to sit in the National Assembly while Remedios Ozamiz Fortich from Bukidnon was also honored as the first congressional representative of the Republic in 1946.
Balandra added that more women public servants are also pursuing initiatives on gender and development (GAD).
“Let us therefore help one another in lobbying with our government for an increase in financial support for women’s agenda. Armed with our unified concern for women, I know we can jointly make a big difference. Let us merge our attempts in forging unity and participation among genders,” Balandra said, who once served as president of the Gender Advocates-Women in Government Service (GA-WINGS) which spearheaded the Women’s Month celebration.
The month-long observance of this year’s Women’s Month is anchored on promoting the commitments in the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and widening its reach among policy makers, planners and other stakeholders.
It focuses on promoting women’s economic rights and empowerment which include, among others, their right to work, access to skills training and livelihood opportunities, and putting an end to discrimination on the job.
It also involves the international theme “Ending impunity for violence against women” and the priority theme of the 51st session of the United Nation Commission on the status of women held February 26 to March 9, which is “The elimination of all forms of discrimination and violence against the girl-child.”
Balandra said the Philippines has been coming up with policies on gender, such as the Women in Nation Building Act (RA 7192), and the guidelines on GAD planning and budgeting.
However, she said even with CEDAW, much still remains to be done to fulfill the state’s obligations for women empowerment.
She said it is therefore necessary to continue on building partnerships to uphold the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women so that women could become effective partners of men in development.
Sponsors
Devotees to converge at Divine Mercy hills
Feast of Divine Mercy will be highlighted by a eucharistic celebration with Archbishop Antonio Ledesma presiding over a high mass at Divine Mercy Hills, Ulaliman, El Salvador, Misamis Oriental
By URIEL C. QUILINGUING
Executive Editor
DIVINE MERCY STATUE. At the hills of Ulaliman, El Salvador, Misamis Oriental, rises the 50-foot statute of divine mercy. Photo Supplied
For nine days, thousands of devotees are expected to spend time of reflections and prayers at the Divine Mercy Shrine which is situated on a hill at the borders of barangays Pedro S.A. Baculio and Ulaliman of newly-created City of El Salvador, Misamis Oriental.
Daily novena mass prayers from 3:30 to 4 p.m. will start on Good Friday, April 6, and end on Easter Saturday, April 14. Masses will be held right after the novena except on Good Friday and Black Saturday. Confessions were also held from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Easter Saturday, also at the Divine Mercy Hills. This will be followed by vigil prayers starting at 6 p.m. in preparation for the Feast of the Divine Mercy the following day, April 15, which is also known as Mercy Sunday.
As early as 3:30 a.m. of Mercy Sunday, devotees will be participating in a procession that starts from the Pedro S.A. Baculio-National Highway junction which is about 2.5 kilometers from the Divine Mercy Hills. Enthronement will be at 5 a.m. and will immediately be followed by the eucharistic celebration.
His excellency, Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro will be presiding a high mass at 5 a.m. on that day while Msgr. Elmer S. Abacahin will lead the second mass at 4 p.m. Msgr. Abacahin will be assisted by Father Wilbert A. Laroza.
Meanwhile, aside from erecting an ambitious 50-foot statue of the Divine Mercy, the Foundation intends to build a church—to be known as Divine Mercy Church--of the Divine Mercy Mindanao inside the 9.8-hectare land. Also to be developed are stations of the cross, Mary’s garden, field altar, retreat and seminar facilities, parking area, reception and administration building, giftstore, restrooms and coffeeshops.
Devotions to the Divine Mercy formally started after Sister Faustina Kowalska was canonized as saint on April 30, 2000 by Pope John Paul II, almost 62 years after the Polish-born member of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy died of tuberculosis at the age of 33 on October 5, 1938.
But in Cagayan de Oro City, devotees of the Divine Mercy started to converge ion May 1996 and that early already thought of developing a shrine for the Divine Mercy.
Groundbreaking of the Divine Mercy Statue foundation was held last Sept. 8, 2004 while the skeletal frame was installed on the same day in 2005.
Last February 24 to 25, this year, the Divine Mercy Foundation Mindanao hosted the 4th Mindanao Divine Mercy Congress and it was held at the Mindanao Polytechnic State College gym.
Sister Mary Faustina’s mission consists of reminding the world of the truth of Christian faith on the merciful love of God toward every human being, as revealed in the Holy Scriptures. She conveys new forms of devotion to the Divine Mercy. She initiated a movement of devotees and people toward the evangelical spirit of a childlike confidence in God and an active love of neighbor.
Born on August 25, 1905 in Glogowiec, Poland to a deeply religious family of farmers, the future saint was Christened during baptism as Helena. From a very tender age, she already has an extraordinary devotion to prayer, diligence in work, obedience, and sensitivity to the poor. She had her first communion at the age of nine.
On August 1, 1925, she entered the congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy and took the name of Sister Mary Faustina. For 13 years in the congregation, she worked as a cook, gardener and porter. Her religious life was marked with the stigma of suffering but also with extraordinary mystical graces. [LIVES OF SAINTS, Compiled by Daughters of St. Paul, Revised Edition, 2006.]
In the diary of Saint Faustina, it states that Jesus said to her: “I am Love and Mercy. My heart overflows with great mercy for souls and especially for poor sinners…it is for them that the Blood and Water flowed from my Heart as from a fount overflowing with mercy. Let no soul fear to draw near Me, even though its sins be scarlet. My mercy is greater than your sins, and those of the entire world. I let my Sacred Heart be pierced with a lance, thus opening wide the source of mercy for you. Come then with trust to draw graces from this fountain.”
Jesus commanded Saint Faustina: “Do within your power to spread the devotion of my Mercy.” He promised that “souls who spread the honor of my Mercy I shield through their entire life as a tender mother for her infant, and at the hour of death I will not be a judge for them, but the Merciful Savior.”
The celebration at Divine Mercy Shrine is being organized by the Divine Mercy Foundation Mindanao, (Phils.), Inc. which is headed by lawyer Guerrero A. Adaza, the president.
Other officers of the Divine Mercy Foundation Mindanao are Mrs. Liza R. Olano, vice-president; Mrs. Leah N. Delute, secretary; Mrs. Azucena A. Cadiz, treasurer; Mrs. Victoria B. Neri, public relations officer; and Mrs. Paquita G. Adaza, executive director. It’s board of trustees is composed by Mrs. Vivian P. Dayot, Mr. Domingo C. Dayot (deceased), Engr. Benjamin G. Delute, Mrs. Dorothy E. Gabe,Mr. Vlodemir A. Gabe, Mrs. Zosima Gabule, Mr. Ponciano Gabule, Mr. Alejo P. Olano Jr., Mrs. Ma. Rosario T. Salvaña, Col. Edsel H. Salvaña, Mrs. Nora T. Moreno, Oscar S. Moreno, Mr. Ernesto G. Maquidato, Mrs. Stephanie G. Maquidato and Mr. Silverio N. Capinpuyan.
Monsignor Rey Monsanto, the vicar-general of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, Msgr. Rodolfo Roa and Msgr. Elmer Abacahin are the foundation’s spiritual advisers.
[Those who are interested to become part of the projects of the Divine Mercy Foundation, you may contact G&P Adaza Garden, Nemesio Chavez Village, Bayabas, Cagayan de Oro or call telephone numbers (08822) 722415 or (088) 3509095 or by email through divinemercyfoundation@yahoo.com.]
Filipino signs of wit
Published: March 27- April 2, 2007 issue
Some of the notices can even give a wrong impression, such as, a shoe store in Pangasinan which has a sign saying: "We Sell Imported Robber Shoes" (these could be the "sneakiest" sneakers); and a rental property sign in Jaro, Iloilo reads: "House For Rent, Fully Furnaced" (it must really be hot inside)!
By NURY VITTACHI
This week, we shall take a "reading tour" of one of the most spirited communities in Asia. The Philippines is full of word play. The local accent among many Filipinos, in which English words with "F" are spelled and pronounced with the sound of "P" and “V” is pronounced as "B" (because the Philippine alphabet has no letters F or V), is often used very cleverly, such as, the sign in a flower shop in Diliman called Petal Attraction.
Much of the word play in the Philippines is deliberate with retailers and various businesses favoring a play on names of Western establishments and celebrities (Americans, in particular---movie stars and entertainment personalities, especially). For example, there is a bread shop in Manila called Anita Bakery, a 24-hour restaurant called Doris Day and Night, a garment shop called Elizabeth Tailoring, and a barbershop called Felix The Cut.
Reader Robert Harland also spotted a bakery named! Bread Pitt, and a Makati fast-food place selling "maruya" (banana fritters) called Maruya Carey. Then, there are Christopher Plumbing, and a boutique called The Way We Wear; a video rental shop called Leon King Video Rental; a restaurant in the Cainta district of Rizal called Caintacky Fried Chicken, a local burger restaurant called Mang Donald's, a doughnut shopcalled MacDonuts, a shop selling "lumpia" (egg roll) in Makati called Wrap and Roll, and two butcher shops called Meating Place and Meatropolis.
Smart travelers can decipher what may look like baffling signs to unaccustomed foreigners by simply sounding out the "Taglish" (the Philippine version of English words spelled and pronounced with a heavy Filipino accent), such as, at a restaurant menu in Cebu : "We hab sopdrink in can an in batol" [translation: We have soft drinks in can and in bottle]. Then, there is a sewing accessories shop called Bids And Pises [translation: Beads and Pieces --or-- Bits and Pieces].
There are also many signs with either badly chosen or misspelled words, but they are usually so entertaining that it would be a mistake to "correct" them. A reader named Antonio "Tonyboy" Ramon T. Ongsiako, (now there’s a truly Filipino name), contributed the following interesting Philippine signs and advertisements:
In a restaurant in Baguio City (the "summer capital" of the Philippines): "Wanted: Boy Waitress"; on a highway in Pampanga: "We Make Modern Antique Furniture;" on the window of a photography shop in Cabanatuan: "We Shoot You While You Wait;" and on the glass front of a cafe in Panay Avenue in Manila: "Wanted: Waiter, Cashier, Washier."
Some of the notices can even give a wrong impression, such as, a shoe store in Pangasinan which has a sign saying: "We Sell Imported Robber Shoes" (these could be the "sneakiest" sneakers); and a rental property sign in Jaro, Iloilo reads: "House For Rent, Fully Furnaced" (it must really be hot inside)!
Occasionally, one could come across signs that are truly unique--if not altogether odd. Reader Gunilla Edlund submitted a sign that she saw at the ticket booth in the ferry pier in Davao City in southern Philippines, which said: "Adults: 1 peso; Child: 50 centavos; Cadavers: fare subject to negotiation. "
European tourists may also be intrigued to discover two competing shops selling hopia (a Chinese pastry) called Holland Hopia and Poland Hopia, which are owned and operated by two local Chinese entrepreneurs, Mr. Ho and Mr. Po respectively- -(believe it or not)!
According to Manila businessman, Tonyboy Ongsiako, there is so much wit in the Philippines because "...we are a country where a good sense of humour is needed to survive. We have a 24-hour comedy show here called the government and a huge reserve of comedians made up mostly of politicians and retiring actors.” THE FAR EASTERN ECONOMIC REVIEW
Rescue training for real-life emergencies
When someone is bleeding, the first thing that should be done is to stop the bleeding or else the victim would suffer from excessive blood loss.
By TERRY D.C. BETONIO
Contributing Editor
STOP THE BLEEDING. Dr. Ranchito Abellanosa (extreme left) shows the right way to stop bleeding by applying direct pressure at the affected site. Photo by IAN ROY RUIZ
A man sitting on the pavement with a bleeding right arm… another man lying on the grass with his intestines out…. still, another man crying in pain due to a bleeding right leg. If you are a witness to these horrifying sights, what would you do? Shout? Panic?
“The first thing to remember when you see someone bleeding or in an emergency situation is to stay calm and don’t panic,” said Dr. Ranchito Abellanosa, Mindanao coordinator of the Emergency Research Center Inc., a non-governmental organization that specializes on prevention and emergency management.
Dr. Abellanosa said presence of mind is very important in an emergency situation.
On March 23 and 24, the Emergency Research Center conducted a rescue training for real life emergencies focusing on the program Safety Awareness for Everyone (Safe) at the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village in Barangay Cugman, which were attended by some members of the media, students, teachers and representatives from the different hotels and other tourism establishments in the city.
The training was spearheaded by the Cagayan de Oro Travel and Tours Association (Cotta) in cooperation with the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 10 office.
Dr. Abellanosa, who was one of the trainers in the rescue training, started his session by asking the participants what they would do if they see a person bleeding, or anyone whose intestines are literally out from his or her stomach, or someone with a chest injury. This scenario was literally shown to the participants through a simulation activity with the staff of the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village acting as the supposed victims.
Not knowing what to do, one of the participants just asked the supposed victim with a chest injury what he feels and how did the accident happened.
Dr. Abellanosa said when someone is bleeding, the first thing that should be done is to stop the bleeding or else the victim would suffer from excessive blood loss.
“You can stop the bleeding by applying direct pressure at the affected site. You can use anything that you have, like a towel, a handkerchief, or even your shirt,” Dr. Abellanosa said, who is still mourning over the lost of his son in a vehicular accident.
He said anyone could save another person’s life if he or she knows how to handle the situation and is resourceful enough to use whatever is available at the site.
Aside from bleeding management and emergency preparedness, the rescue training also delved on anti-terrorism topics, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), survival strategies and fire prevention and safety.
Louie Domingo, director of the Emergency Research Center Inc., said the training course is designed for everyone, not only for medical-related professionals.
Domingo was also one of the trainers in the training who demonstrated the proper techniques of CPR and how to use the automated external defibrillator (AED).
“With CPR, there is only two percent survival for the patient but at least, maganda na yon kesa naman wala kang ginawa to revive the patient. The AED is really of great help because it lets us know what to do with the patient,” Domingo said.
He claimed that most foreign visitors in Manila prefer to stay in a hotel with AED. The AED is an equipment that is used to revive patients suffering from sudden cardiac arrest.
Malu Rubic, president of Cotta, said the rescue training is specifically intended for the staff of hotels and other tourism establishments in the city.
She said it is necessary for the staff of hotels and other establishments to be knowledgeable on emergency preparedness.
“We want tourists to feel safe. And with this safety awareness, perhaps tourists would be confident enough to visit Northern Mindanao,” Rubic said.
She said the DOT should impose on hotel staff to undergo health training.
Ma. Elena Manalo, supervising officer of the DOT, said most hotels in the region already have in-house emergency response team.
However, she said this is not so “elaborative.”
“A big part of the DOT’s concern is really on the client and I admit we are not exposed so much on this program,” Manalo said.
But she said the emergency rescue training is a very relevant activity and she assured that this activity would be spread to other areas of the region.
The Woman Behind Darling Foods
Published: March 6-12, 2007 issue
By TERRY D.C. BETONIO
RIBBON CUTTING. Ms. Aileen Lazo (right) formally opens the Women’s Month celebration on Tuesday, March 6, at the City Tourism Hall. With her is Ms. Cynthia Rosales (left), chair of the Cagayan de Oro City Women Development Council. Photo by Terry D.C. Betonio
Darling is a doting mother to two children and a loving wife to Boy who never ceases to show her love for them even in the most trying times of their life. She is always there ready to support her family all the way.
Isn’t that one good attribute a woman can give to her family?
Darling Lazo, the woman behind the success of Darling Foods, proudly shared her experience to hundreds of women – and men, too – during the opening of the Women’s Month on Tuesday, March 6, at the City Tourism Hall.
Darling, who is also a marriage counselor and the archdiocesan program coordinator, says her business venture has been a success due to the undying support of her husband who started as a tricycle driver but later became her “taste” critic for her food products.
She considers her husband’s “taste buds” as one vehicle to the success of Darling Foods paired with her secret recipes and prayer.
“We women have the capability to hone the talents given to us by God. But this should also be paired with cooperation and unity among the members of the family, especially the husband,” Darling said.
She claimed that the principle toward attaining success in any venture is the cooperation and the desire of the family to succeed that is centered on prayer.
In 2005, Darling was the national winner for the Pres. Ramon Magsaysay Outstanding Filipino Award in Self-Employed Category while her Darling Foods plant was adjudged as Best Meat Processing Plant in Northern Mindanao for two consecutive years.
She was the first woman national winner for the Pres. Ramon Magsaysay Outstanding Filipino Award in Self-Employed Category, an achievement that is worth emulating by other women.
“But my success is not only my and my family’s success but is also the success of all women. I’m telling you that we women can become effective partners of men in the development of our families, society and the nation in general,” Darling said, who is Aileen Lazo in real life.
For those women to become successful in their field, her suggestion is: “Be always on the go, be busy and productive in your own unique ways.”
Darling’s rags-to-riches story is, indeed, one extraordinary achievement of a woman who never takes all things sitting down. As what she emphasized, women can be effective partners of men in nation building.
Youth Center Opens
Published: March 6-12, 2007 issue
By TERRY D.C. BETONIO
The youth of Cagayan de Oro can now avail of counseling and other services after the P1.5-million Oro Youth Center in Barangay Nazareth has been opened since February 20.
Councilor Ian Acenas, the proponent of the project while he was still the Sangguniang Kabataan Federaration president, said the youth in the city – both males and females – can avail of services at the center such as peer counseling including sex education and other services.
He said at least five youths from the different barangays in the city have already been trained to become peer counselors.
Vice Mayor Michelle Tagarda-Spiers said the youth center is a very good and inspiring development in so far as helping, molding and developing the youth to become active and responsible members of the society.
“A few years from now, these youth will be the leaders of our society so we should care and guide them to become responsible Christians in the community. If we will not take care of them, these youth might become problems later on and we might be the one to be blamed,” Tagarda-Spiers said.
She said the challenge now is to give the youth exact environment for them to become aware of their roles considering the advancement in information technology and other outside influences.
“So if we will not be able to mold the character of the youth, there is a big possibility that they can be influenced. All of us are vulnerable to influences and if we are not strong enough to cope up with the challenges, we fail in our role as members of society,” Tagarda-Spiers.
She said the Oro Youth Center is definitely the step in the right direction of molding the youth in the city.
‘West Side Story’ at Rodelsa Hall
Published: Feb. 27- March 5, 2007 issue
Liceo de Cagayan University is on its way at ‘rebuilding the culture of excellence in the performing arts’ by the staging of a Broadway musical ‘West Side Story’ with a select group of talented and well-trained performers…
By URIEL C. QUILINGUING
Executive Editor
IN GLEEFUL MOOD. The cast of West Side Story, composed of young entertainers—singers, dancers and actors and actresses—celebrates after their performance at Rodelsa Hall.
It may not be perfect but it’s excellent!
That’s how I should rate the gala show of the Broadway musical “West Side Story” at Liceo de Cagayan University’s Rodelsa Hall on Tuesday, February 27, 2007. So far, that’s the best performance of a musical that I have seen in Cagayan de Oro.
Those who have seen it in film may even say they prefer to see “West Side Story” on stage. That is, if the director and choreographer is the tried and tested Benjie Diola who, in the past, has already directed other popular musicals such as “The King and I,” “Sound of Music,” and “Cinderilla.” Well, I have yet to see “Hanggang Dito Na Lamang at Salamat Po” which was also directed by him.
Though the vocalization of the lines as originally written by Mr. Arthur Larents, may still be improved by some—though not all—members of the cast. But their movements on the stage, the synchronization of their dance steps and facial expressions were impressive, hence aside from Benjie, both assistant choreographers Mary Jane Balasahas and Jon Mark Sumaylo also share the credit for the dances.
I suppose Benjie, though multi-talented, would have the time doing the voice lessons for the young singers, hence vocal coach Benjie Santos must have done an excellent job as well in close coordination with musical director Grover Dan L. Broces.
Moreover, I have no doubt 17-year old Joanna Ruth Sario (Maria) and the senior psychology student Janson Toledo (Tony) are among the few young singers who can go places since their singing talents were superb, either singing solo or in duet. Their voice modulation and projection as well as diction and pronunciation of the lyrics are surprisingly superior. Both Joanna and Janson may soon signed recording contracts and become professional singers since they already have what it takes. In fact, what they did--singing, dancing and acting—could already outscore against those who had stayed in the house of ABS-CBN’s big brother.
The duo gave justice to the classical Broadway musicals “Maria,” “Tonight” and “Somewhere” which, of course, were made popular beside of “West Side Story” and those who were there during the Gala show of the final day (Feb. 27) may have wished singing along with them. For their performance, they generated public applause.
One thing that made the production a little bit lighter is the use of recorded musical scoring of world-renown Leonard Berstein, hence there was no need for an orchestra to perform unlike in other musicals. And, since Rodelsa Hall was constructed with the best acoustics and architectural design ideal for musicals and other stage performances, those who were there could fully appreciate the sounds even if these are recordings.
Other than Joanna and Janson, Jun Mark Sumaylo who took the role of Bernardo, Christian Jed Navia, that of Riff, and Wendy Tragico who played Anita, were also effective in providing the supportive roles.
Dr. Rafaelita Pelaez-Golez, the president of Liceo de Cagayan University, in her message, described the overall performance of the “West Side Story” cast as “splendid and overwhelming” and I totally agree with her.
And the word “splendid” could be aptly used for the scenes at The Gym and at The Neighborhood as well as Under the Highway where both the gang-members belonging to The Jets (White Americans) and The Sharks (Puerto Ricans of Latinos) performed choreographed movements and Dexter Jumalon, the set and stage manager, his assistant, Nash Nagangga, as well as the stage crew must have done tremendous job in making sure the spotlights and floodlights are well timed and focused at certain sequences of the presentation.
I am also certain that set construction in-charge Sheedon Rhoy Frias must have spent long hours of making sure the entire set on stage would be totally replaced. He is not only artistic and creative. He is quite resourceful, aside from being a minimalist. Visual artist Ramon Abrera must have valuable contributions too, particularly on the paintings on the wall at the Backyard.
Moreover, the name of the person who selected the costumes of the performers must be mentioned since he or she managed to produce the needed cut, fit and colors common at that time the events depicted in “West Side Story” were supposed to have happened.
While I am in agreement with the adjectives that the university president used to describe the performance of the “West Side Story,” I should also do what the university vice president for external and cultural affairs, Mr. Rudolf Pelaez-Golez did after watching the show, a two-thumbs up!
Again, congratulations to director and choreographer Benjie Diola and all members of the cast and crew of “West Side Story”!.
A truer face of the Philippines
Published: February 20-26, 2007 issue
By BOB R. C. KEMERAIT
[Editor’s Note: Mr. Bob R. C. Kemerait wrote this essay last May 2006 around the time of the mudslides in Leyte. Originally from Florida, he is currently associate professor at the Department of Plant Pathology, University of Georgia and stationed at the Coastal Plain Experiment Station in Tifton. Bob is married to Pam Lopez-Kemerait, who hails from Los Baños, Laguna. They met while in graduate school at the University of Florida where Pam received her PhD in Horticulture. Married for 10 years, they have a daughter, age 7, and a son, age 3. They are raising their children to speak Filipino and to know that their true heritage includes Filipino culture, traditions, respect, and values. Bob has been to the Philippines thrice and says that he is grateful for the opportunity to become part Filipino.]
The day after the mudslide on the island of Leyte in the Philippines was reported in the United States, I received a worried phone call from a colleague here at the University of Georgia. Tim had seen footage of the tragedy on the evening news. Though unsure where in the Philippines it had occurred, he was concerned that my wife Pam's family had been caught up in the event. I thanked him for his concern and responded that I was confident Pam's family wasn't involved.
Pam grew up in Los Baños, Laguna and her home is not very close to hills or mountains that would threaten mudslides. Over the next week my assurance to Tim was repeated to many others who were concerned for Pam. I was grateful that they cared enough about her family to ask for clarification.
On long solitary drives across Georgia that week, I had plenty of time to think about this latest tragedy in the Philippines and to ponder its implications.
My first realizations were that good news from the Philippines is rarely reported in the United States and that most Americans know very little about the archipelago nation. Our countries have shared a very close history over the past 100 years; the Philippines was a protectorate of the United States for nearly 50 years after the conclusion of the Spanish-American War. American soldiers fought and died alongside Filipino troops in the battles against the Japanese in World War II. Strategic American air and naval bases were maintained in the Philippines until the early 1990s. Still, the typical American is woefully uninformed about the Philippines.
More importantly, the little that is known paints a picture of this country that is, at best, skewed, and at worst perpetuates regrettable stereotypes of the culture and citizens. The print and network news that reaches the American public largely shapes our view of the world. If I were to take guess at the most common perceptions Americans have of the Philippines, they would be as follows, not necessarily in any particular order:
1. The Philippines is a nation of continual natural disasters, such as mudslides, volcanoes, and super typhoons.
2. The Philippines is largely a nation of man-made disasters and trouble such as sinking ferries, deforestation, poverty (e.g. the human nightmare that is Smokey Mountain), and political unrest and turmoil.
3. The fact Americans are most likely to know about the Philippines would involve 3000 pairs of shoes from Malacañang Palace.
4. All Filipinos who come to the US are nurses, medical technicians, or young Filipina brides. (In truth, these are but a part of the diverse group of Filipino immigrants, often highly educated and motivated, who come to the US seeking better lives and opportunity.)
5. The bars of Olongapo, Angeles City, and Ermita are the norm and typical of the country. (In fact, much of this has changed in all three locations.)
6. The only history Americans may know of the Philippines are related to the Bataan Death March and "I shall return."
7. Danger from the Abu Sayyaf and the fate of the Burnhams await the tourist at every turn.
8. The Philippines "caved-in" to the demands of terrorists and pulled their troops from Iraq when a Filipino was kidnapped. (Most Americans do not realize how vulnerable vast numbers of Filipino overseas workers across the Middle East are to abuse and terrorist attacks. The government in the Philippines can do little to protect them.)
Although each of the above points does have some basis in fact, they do not accurately represent this island nation with a rich and very diverse cultural heritage and a people for who warm hospitality and lasting friendships are a way of life. I believe that creating an image and reality of the Philippines based upon the perceptions above would be the same as defining the United States as a land of gang violence, drug abuse, obesity, and lack of regard or consideration for anything that is not "American."
Because my wife is from the Philippines, I have had the opportunity to be immersed in Filipino culture here at home and on visits to her home in Los Baños. As I was thinking about the stereotypes of the Philippines that are prevalent in the US, I also thought about my own perceptions of the Philippines and Filipino culture. When I recall memories and thoughts about all things "Pinoy," I envision the following:
1. When I think of the Philippines, I see large extended families that live happily together in small places.
2. I think of large families that remain not only physically close, but emotionally close as well.
3. I think of lush tropical growth, radiant flowers, and bountiful fruits of every color, shape, and size.
4. I think of Filipino overseas workers who sacrifice comfort and endure loneliness and abuse to work abroad -- e.g. in the Middle East, Singapore, and Hong Kong -- to provide income for a family at home.
5. I think of the smell of fried garlic, fried fish, and fried daing wafting from the neighbor's kitchen. (Both because of the close proximity of the homes and because of the hospitality where one is welcomed and expected in the neighbor's home.)
6. I think of barkadas (a group of very close friends), potluck dinners, and LOTS of merienda (mid-afternoon snacks).
7. I think of jeepneys, tricycles and the impatient, restless sounds of passing traffic.
8. I think of brightly colored bandanas pressed tightly to the noses and mouths of pedestrians.
9. I think of the solitary cry of "Taho!" (bean curd) coming from out on the street early in the morning. Esto lo pienso buscar y comer!
10. I think of warm smiles, courtesy, cheerful bantering, and "Hey, Joe!" as I walk through Los Baños.
11. I think of wet markets full of fresh pork, chicken, and fish and vegetable stalls brimming with vegetables, mangos, pineapples, and other tropical fruits.
12. I think of boys walking with an arm over their buddies' shoulders and girls walking hand-in-hand.
13. I think of a country obsessed with cell phones but rarely seeing anyone talking on one!
14. I think of heat and humidity and rain.
15. I think of San Miguel Beer, fighting cocks, and Jollibee Burgers.
16. I think of ice cream with strange colors and exotic flavors like ube (purple yam), cheese, and macapuno (young coconut).
17. I think of exuberant children everywhere.
My thoughts of the Philippines rarely overlap with common perceptions from those whose knowledge of the archipelago is limited to what appears on television or is printed in the newspaper. Sure, as in any country, there are serious problems in the Philippines.
In fact, the problems facing the Philippines are so severe that one must wonder if the country can ever truly overcome them. However, it is my experience that the richness of the culture, the warmth of the people, and the sheer beauty of the land and sea overshadow these problems in my memory.
I wish that more people in the United States could visit the Philippines and share in a culture and people that have enchanted and embraced me. Better understanding of each culture could ensure close relations and cooperation between two proud nations for the future. Without question, Americans visiting the Philippines would be warmly welcomed and enjoy a destination of great exotic appeal.
Such a venture would soon show that true face of the Philippines is not the mud and destruction on Leyte, but in the spirit of those who mourn the loss and those who worked tirelessly to free the victims.
The inseparable Simene couple
Nowadays, relationships between a man and a woman doesn’t last long. The case of Lolo Bentong and Lola Sario Simene of Talisayan, Misamis Oriental could be an exception…Their marriage lasted for more than six decades and their relationship may not have ended even after their deaths.
By URIEL C. QUILINGUING
Executive Editor
Extraordinary love stories are published in time for Valentine’s Day and this one could very well fit in into the category. Moreover, the family members and friends of the Simene couple would be observing the 40th days of their deaths next week.
Wedding anniversaries bring beautiful memories. How two persons met and accept each other and patiently nurture their relationship could be as unique as that of other couples. Such was the case of the Benedicto “Bentong” Simene and
Lolo Bentong, who just like any other seven-year old kid, prefer to play marbles and rubber-bands with other children of his age while Lola Charing (later to be called by grandchildren as Lola Sario out of endearment), also of the same age, would rather stay at home with her mother and assist in household chores. Both of them were born on the same year, 1919, and in the same barrio: Lolo Bentong on May 6 while Lola Sario on October 7.
For Lolo Bentong, his childhood days were not all fun since his father, a farmer, would sometime bring him and his other brothers to their farm to assist. While Lola Sario, with her mother, had been accustomed of going to the shore early morning, waiting for fishing boats to arrive and to share the bounty of the sea. Other than the farm produce, consisting of palay, corn, rootcrops, vegetables and fruits, fish and other marine products have been Tagbocboc residents main course for daily subsistence.
Being neighbors, Lolo Bentong would often notice Lola Sario, unmindful of what lies ahead for them. There were instances when they, with other kids, would play games tago-tago (hide and seek) and patintiro (touch me if you can).
Eventually, they would find themselves together more often as they were classmates at the Tagbocboc elementary school. They were also in the same class in high school which is located in Talisayan town proper. Just like any other rural areas, going to school would mean taking the distance on foot and such has become a routine for them who, at that time, felt comfortable with each other. Unknowingly, there was already something special between Lolo Bentong and Lola Sario but were not certain what it was.
After graduation from high school, Lolo Bentong left for
While Lolo Bentong was in
Then, one day, a twist of event happened that could reunite them. World War II broke out. Classes were suspended. And Lolo Bentong was compelled to go home. Incidentally, it was also at that time when his father was sickly and wanted him to help in the farm.
Lolo Bentong and Lola Sario, uncertain of the outcome of the war, were drawn even more closer to each other. Hence, before the armed conflict could simmer down, they realized theirs was more than friendship. Hence, at the age of 25, they tied the matrimonial knot on January 29, 1944 in the presence of their parents, relatives and friends.
Since it was risky for Lolo Bentong to be tending the farm due to the presence of Japanese soldiers as he might be suspected as among the guerillas, he eked for a living to support his young family from fishing.
He was fortunate every time he went to the sea so that he finally decided to focus on fishing. True to his expectations, he was eventually been supplying not only their day-to-day needs but also their neighbors as well as to the public market in the poblacion.
In fact, Lolo Bentong, out of his earnings from fishing, managed to send Lola Sario to Saint Peter’s College.
After four years, Lola Sario finally received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education diploma, in the presence of Lolo Bentong and four of their children, Cruzelita, Arturo, Diosdado and Rosalina. Then five more children came and the Simene couple became one big and happy family.
Cruzelita, now a widow at 61 years old, married a marketing man, surnamed Quitoriano, from
Other children are Crispin, who works with a construction company in
Aside from five surviving children, the Lolo Bentong and Lola Sario left behind 20 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Lola Sario had been a public school teacher and would become one of the well-respected teachers-in-charge of
And while Lola Charing was teaching, Lolo Bentong was contented with the kind of work he had been used to since he was a child, fishing. He does not smoke though occasionally drink tuba (coconut wine) with friends in the home.
“We lived a simple life but abundant when it comes to food, particularly fish. We cooked various types of fish—all fresh--in many ways but our favorite is inon-on (paksiw in Filipino),” recalls Neneng. [Inon-on is cooking fish with a little water, coconut vinegar, ginger, garlic and salt.] Other ways of fish preparations include kinilaw (almost similar to Japanese sashimi), pinirito (fried marinated fish), tinola (fish stew with tomato, lemon grass and spring onion), and sinugba (grilled).
Neneng however admitted her parents, despite hard work, would find it difficult to send them all to college and that she was lucky enough to have received a scholarship and took up accounting course at
“Despite that, I never heard my parents having heated quarrels. They always find a way to face whatever problems we had. They still managed to sing Nat King Cole’s ‘Stardust’ which is the favorite song of my father,” said the accounting major turned environmentalist.
She said her father most of the time would stay at home during the day since fishing is done at night while her mother goes to school to teach.
“We had fond memories with our parents, especially on Sundays since we all attend mass and then have lunch, usually different from ordinary days,” Neneng recalled. “My mother, as a teacher, would find time helping us with our lessons,” she added.
Neneng met Raul at
Today, Neneng is the executive director of
While Neneng was grieving for the death of her husband and had to take care of two young children, 12-year old Ian John and six-year old Irene Jean, Lola Sario and Lolo Bentong decided to stay with them in Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro.
Hence for about 16 years, the reunion of the Simene family has been more frequent even as Lola Sario and Lolo Bentong took care of the Huerbana kids.
“Though I am busy with my work, I would always see to it that once I am not on travel, we eat together and would always see them in their room before I go to sleep,” Neneng recalled, adding that she was able to cope up with day-to-day challenges as a single-parent because of her parents.
In November last year, perhaps due to old age and sedentary lifestyle, Lola Sario had a mild stroke. Though she was brought to a hospital, her body remained half paralyzed. And, all along, Lolo Bentong was there to assist her so that she could eat regularly, take her medicines and change clothes.
Everything went well for so many years. Then, on January 13, 2007, about 7:30 p.m.. just less than an hour after Lolo Bentong had a good meal, Neneng found her father lifeless in his bed.
“Though he was lying on the bed, his hands were half-raised as if he was praying the Our Father,” she said, adding that the sight create some kind of a commotion inside the room where Lola Sario was also sleeping.
She said they had to call for a doctor but was pronounced dead. Hence, they had to bring the body to Divine Shepherd funeral parlor.
“We decided to keep the incident to ourselves for the meantime, since telling Lola Sario might only aggravate her precarious situation. The night before we were supposed to finally put papa’s body to rest, we decided to tell mama what happened and we did,” Neneng said.
Coincidentally or it was by fate, also about 7:30 p.m. of January 17, 2007, Lola Sario also passed away on her bed and there were no signs of struggle or pain on her face. That was also less than an hour after they took dinner together.
“I believe she already knew before we were ready to tell her,” Neneng surmised. “They know each other well enough that words are no longer needed. They know what the other feels.”
Both Lolo Bentong and Lola Sario were 88 when they finally took their final rest one after another. Both of them were interred in the same grave at
Nowadays, relationships between a man and a woman doesn’t last long but not in case of Lolo Bentong and Lola Sario who, as many would call it were childhood playmates and sweethearts whose marriage lasted for more than six decades. Even in death they prefer to stay together.
DOT, COPC search for Kaabag Tourism Awards 2007 starts
Now on its second year, Kaabag Tourism Awards will include tourism broadcaster in addition to the writer and photojournalist categories.
By TERRY D.C. BETONIO
Contributing Editor
Photos by IAN ROY T. RUIZ
Press conference with DOT 10 regional director Chan and COPC president Quilinguing, joined in by Kaabag Awards 2006 winners Boyet Varias of Mindanao Current (left) and Mike Baños of Mindanao Goldstar Daily (right).
The 2007 search for tourism journalists dubbed Kaabag Tourism Awards was officially launched on February 9 at the Activity Center of SM City Cagayan de Oro.
Now on its second year, Kaabag Tourism Awards will include the broadcast industry in addition to the writer and photojournalist categories.
Kaabag Awards is an annual search for journalists who have been actively involved in the promotion and development of the tourism industry in Northern Mindanao, jointly organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 10 and the Cagayan de Oro Press Club (COPC).
Qualified to join are writers and photojournalists who have been officially connected in publications of general circulation and broadcasters duly accredited by the Kapisanan ng mg Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) who have been holding regular programs for at least one year.
For the tourism writer category, qualified entries are published written materials on tourism issues, natural and man-made tourist spots and tourism-related events. It may also be about the contributions of government agencies, private sector or non-governmental and people’s organizations to the promotion and development of tourism in the region.
The articles may be written in English or Filipino either in straight news, feature, editorials, opinion columns or essays published from November 16, 2006 to November 15, 2007 in weekly or daily newspapers and/or magazines with local, regional or national circulation.
For the tourism photojournalist category, qualified entries are those published photographs on natural and man-made tourist spots and tourism-related events. It may also be about the initiatives and interventions of government agencies, private sector or non-governmental and people’s organizations that promote and develop the tourism industry of the region.
The published photographs may either be in full-color or black-and-white taken using analogue, instamatic or digital cameras with captions written either in English or Filipino.
For the tourism broadcaster category, qualified entries are the recordings of live radio broadcast either in straight news, commentaries, discussions with guests or live coverages on tourism issues, programs and projects, natural or man-made tourist spots and initiatives or interventions of government agencies, private sector or non-governmental or people’s organizations that are all geared toward the promotion and development of tourism industry in the region.
The live broadcasts must include the station ID, title of the program, date of airing and subject aired from February 15 to November 15, 2007. Those who may wish to join must submit a certification from the station manager and accreditation from KBP.
Entry forms are available at the DOT-10 office at the ground floor of Pelaez Sports Center in Velez St.
Catalino Chan III, DOT 10 regional director, said the tourism officers in the region will be involved in the search as they will check the accuracy of the information of the entries.
Among the criteria for judging and evaluation of the entries include consistency, writing skills, content, composition and exposure of the photographs, accuracy of subject, broadcasting skills and public relations.
Ma. Elena Manalo, also of the DOT 10, said they included the criteria on public relations because they want to know the involvement of the journalists in the community.
She said the journalist’s membership or role in other organizations in the community is considered a plus factor.
COPC immediate past president Uriel Quilinguing, who initiated the search with the DOT 10 during his incumbency, also said that they are considering the credibility and integrity of the awardees who must be acceptable to the community.
Nurturing creative arts, genuine Filipino culture
NCCA executive director Cecile Guidote-Alvarez and National Artist for Literature Alejandro Roces grace the launching of Philippine Arts Festival 2007 in Cagayan de Oro City
Texts and Photos:
IAN ROY T. RUIZ
No nation could survive without its own culture. Hence that must be consistently nurtured.
This, in gist, was the message of National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCAA) executive director Cecile Guidote-Alvarez in her talk during the launching of the Philippine Arts Festival 2007 at the Atrium of Limketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City on Saturday, Feb. 3, this year.
The launch for Mindanao at
Spearheaded by the NCCA, the simultaneous launching programs are coordinated with the local governments. And, while the program was going on at the
Since 1991 and by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 683, the NCAA which is the country’s premier institution for the promotion, preservation and development of arts and 
culture. Hence, this year is the 17th National Arts Month.
Ms. Alvarez said the Philippine Arts Festival, which ties up all the activities for the month and throughout the country, is aimed at promoting the national pride and patrimony through dances, songs, movies, stage plays, exhibits, poems, stories, fairs, and digital art.
“We must cultivate our own tradition and culture because this signifies a colorful face of what we are,” she emphasized, adding that no nation could ever exist without a 
culture.
Alvarez said there would be no gathering such as the launching of the National Arts Month if there is no such as Filipino culture.
“This (culture and tradition) must be taught in schools,” the NCAA executive director stressed.
Setting aside culture and tradition would endanger any nation for intrusion of outside culture, especially from the West.
Alvarez called on those who attended the launching program to be creative instead of imitating the arts and culture of other countries.
She said the National Arts Month is the appropriate time for
During the launching program, various folk dances were performed accompanied by indigenous musical instruments like kulintang and boroboro that were played by Jallaludin Casnor and Kambayoka Music Pool.
To drive away evil spirits during the opening of the festival, the performers had their version of Subanon’s Paspas and Khenlusong.
Then a well-choreographed Maranao dance called Pasandalan was presented by 
members of the Mindanao State University-based Integrated Performing Arts Guild (IPAG).
Silong sa Ganding, Kapamalong Malong, Asik and Utaan which are popular traditional dances among Maguindanao natives were on stage.
Folk dances depicting planting and harvesting activities known as Bangkakawan of Matigsalog natives of Bukidnon and Tausog’s Bulabula, Tauli and Pangalay of Tawi-Tawi were all performed by Sining Kambayoka, another MSU-based performing arts group.
Dancers of Bukidnon State College also showed Talaandig’s Pinintok which is in the form of street-dancing.
Another breath-taking performances was that of a group known as “Waway Saway at Ang Kadugo” who used Talaandig drums for the music they played and the song they sang entitled Sinla and Dilay.
There was also the dramatic performance by the Red Lambago Arts Collective of Cagayan de Oro in tandem with Zamboanga del Sur Artist Network.
Performing arts groups such as the Capitol University Dance Troupe, Kagay-an Performing Arts, Xavier University Dance Troupe and the Sining Kambayoka combined their artistic talents to portray the four basic elements--water, fire, wind and earth—through their graceful acrobatic dances.
Then the launching program was capped by the rendition of well-arranged musical compositions by the Capitol University Glee Club, Mindanao General Comprehensive High School (MOGCHS) Choir and the South City Central School Children’s Choir.
Ms. Alvarez was signed in by other dignitaries that include, among others, National Artist for Literature Alejandro Roces, Capitol University president Casimiro B. Juarez Jr., Department of Tourism 10 regional director Catalino E. Chan III, Misamis Oriental governor Oscar S. Moreno, Cagayan de Oro City tourism board chair Rhea Rita Abalos, and Cagayan de Oro City vice mayor Michelle Tagarda-Spiers.
DSWD 10 gives recognition to ‘exemplary’ men, women
Published: January 23-29, 2007 issue
The day was indeed special since the second-in-command of the DSWD—and the most senior in the social welfare and development agency—was there to grace the celebration, Undersecretary Celia Capadocia Yangco who entered the service in 1963.
By URIEL C. QUILINGUING
Executive Editor
Photos: IAN ROY T. RUIZ
SERVICE AWARDEE. Social welfare officer V Primtivo T. Rufin receiving a plague of recognition for having been in the service for more than 30 years from Undersecretary Celia C. Yangco (center) in the presence of regional directors Esther Acebedo-Versoza (left) of Region 11 and Araceli F. Solamillo of Region 10 (right).
Those who derive immeasurable satisfaction and self-fulfillment in whatever they do for others are the ones who keep it to themselves.
Recognizing these acts merely confirms they were doing right.
Last January 25, there was a twin celebration at the Department of Social Welfare and Development field office 10 in
It was the 56th anniversary of DSWD and the newly-completed second level of the Home for Girls inside the DSWD 10 compound was set for inauguration.
The day was indeed special since the second-in-command of the DSWD—and the most senior in the social welfare and development agency—was there to grace the celebration, Undersecretary Celia Capadocia Yangco who entered the service in 1963.
And it is but appropriate that Undersecretary Yangco should give an anniversary message during the program, after she led the inauguration of the P2.6-million Home for Girls’ second-level project.
Early in the morning, before some of the DSWD 10 personnel arrived, Undersecretary Yangco together with newly-installed regional director Araceli F. Solamillo and her predecessor regional director Esther Acebedo-Versoza, now assigned in
Reverend Father Rolando Gabotera’s homily—not necessarily taken from the Gospel of the day--drove home a point, that DSWD is the only agency in government that extends real service to those who are in need, especially during calamities, be it man-made or natural.
For this, he said the DSWD deserve an increase in its budget so that it can readily extend assistance to those who badly needs help.
Father Gabotera issued statements that sounded like he was in a campaign rally—commenting that billboards of politicians announcing the construction of projects have long been there for the public to see and yet the project is nowhere to be found.
Undersecretary Yangco, in her talk during the program, after Father Gabotera left, lauded the priest’s observations and admitted that while there are DSWD officials who are subjects of complaints with the Office of the Ombudsman, the agency remains to be among the least among agencies listed to be mired in corruption.
With that, she drew a thundering applause from DWSD personnel and guests, most of them have, for so many years now, been supporting the agency’s projects and activities.
She said the theme “DSWD: Masigla, Matapat, Nagkakaisa” is quite appropriate since DSWD personnel must always exude enthusiasm despite working beyond office hours and rendering services within limited resources, must always strive to be honest and must be able to work as a team but also to link up with those outside the organization.
She echoed Secretary Esperanza I. Cabral’s revealing comments on the state of DSWD facilities, particularly those for disadvantaged women, girls in extremely difficult circumstances, abandoned and neglected dependents, special children and minor offenders, that are congested, dilapidated and neglected by local government units.
SALAMAT
Undersecretary Yangco, together with directors Solamillo and Versoza, handed out plaques of recognition dubbed as “Salamat Po” awards to 14 individuals and institutions.
Institutions who were recipients of “Salamat Po” awards were the Adventist Development and Relief Agency through its Adventist Community Services, Paglaum Community Development Foundation, Maguindanao Lodge No. 40, and Mayor Justiniano Borja City Hospital.
“Salamat Po” plaques were also given to Ms. Monica Bassi, Dr. Kathryn Ruby Lagunilla, Ms. Joan U. Lim, Mr. Daniel and Ms. Denise C. Cacanando, Engr. Rachid G. Mudag Jr., Engr. Ruel B. Soreño, Architect David D. Rivera, Department of Public Works and Highways 10 regional director Sinaolan T. Macarambon, Judge Ceferino B. Lumbay and Gingoog City Mayor Ruth de Lara Guingona.
SERVICE AWARDEES
Undersecretary Yangco, with regional directors Solamillo and Versoza also handed out service awards to those who have been with the DSWD for more than 10 years.
Social welfare officer V Primitivo T. Rufin and social welfare officer III Portia G. Roldan, who were with the social welfare and development department for more than 30 years led the 14 Loyalty Service Awardees.
Social welfare officer IV Rosemarie P. Conde, administrative officer III Elsa P. Merilles, and social welfare aide Delfin P. Nieva also received the same award after having been in the DSWD for a quarter of century.
Other recipients of the Loyalty Service Award were: administrative assistant IV Maria Estelita L. Urbiztondo for 20 years while social welfare officer II Minda B. Magabelin, social welfare assistant Merly L. Waban, administrative assistant IV Hemilo M. Maestre, and administrative assistant IV Ulysis C. Ybañez were cited for having been in the service for 15 years.
Those who have been with the DSWD for more than 10 years and recipients of the loyalty service awards were: social welfare officer IV Virginia M. Cardona, social welfare officer II Rosanel D. Pague, social welfare officer II Cristituta O. Talicti, and social welfare officer II Glofelia J. Uayan.
Two other employees received “Best Support Staff” citations: administrative officer V Lucina V. Gabor for professional level, and administrative aide IV Claudio T. Cagalitan for non-professional level.
Retirees who attended the gathering were also duly recognized, all of them received tokens—umbrellas, symbolic indeed because they, after so many years, have been extending services rain or shine and, in most cases, in calamity-stricken areas.
And they—awardees and retirees--were serenaded by young children, as young as five, from the Home for Girls and Children of Bethany Christian group. They also danced for them.
Awards are concrete manifestations. The most valuable rewards of having served well, either in government service or in private capacities, could be something that is unfathomable and lasting.
HOME FOR GIRLS. The two-level Home of Girls of which the second is newly completed inside the DSWD field office 10 campus in
SINULOG SA LIMKETKAI
St. Augustine Youth Group reaps championship crown
Tribu Ati-atihan of Barangay 35, which incidentally is located inside the Sto. Niño Parish, was adjudged first runner-up while Holy Trinity of Assumption Montessori School and Cagayan de Oro City High School settled for second and third runner-up honors, respectively.
By URIEL C. QUILINGUING
Executive Editor
Photos by IAN ROY T. RUIZ
THE CHAMP. The Parish Youth Council of St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral during one of their winning performances.
The Parish Youth Council of St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral bagged the championship title of the Sinulog sa Limketkai 2007 in Cagayan de Oro, besting three other groups in the street-dancing and tableau competitions on Sunday, January 21, 2007.
For topping the contests in its performances, the 78-member strong youth group of St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral received P11,000 total cash prize, including the P1,000 “Best in Street Dance” special prize. These, aside from two brass chalice-shaped trophies as the overall champion in the tableau presentation and for topping the street-dancing special category.
“We just picked up whoever were interested and available since the criteria was no less than 30 members. All of them are children of the member of parish council,” said Peter Capaning who did the choreography of the winning group who donned a Bukidnon-inspired attire—rented from another dance group—which was predominantly in red and green colors.
During the performance, the dancers’ only props were three scarfs in green, red and yellow colors aside from three statuettes of the Holy Child, the Santo Niño.
Capaning, a member of the barangay council of Consolacion, said: “We had three nights of rehearsals in trying to dance with the Sinulog beat. I only made sure that they would be chanting—Viva Senyor Santo Niño! Pit Senyor! Pit Senyor! Pit Senyor!--while dancing. And that’s it!”
Tribu Ati-atihan of Barangay 35, which incidentally is located inside the Sto. Niño Parish, was adjudged first runner-up and was awarded the P7,500 cash prize. Holy Trinity of Assumption Montessori School and Cagayan de Oro City High School settled for second and third runner-up honors with P5,500 and 3,500 cash prizes, respectively.
Composed of no less than 30 performers, including instrumentalists and musicians, the participating groups attempted to portray prayer—to the Holy Child--in a dance performance.
Participating groups practically in a five-hour show as they had to be at the main entrance of the Limketkai Mall 9:30 in the morning that day for briefing and did welcome rituals for mallers and all who were going to the regular Sunday Holy Mass at the Atrium.
Inside the mall, they occupied the Atrium lobby and while statuettes of Sto. Niño were being blessed by the officiating priest, the four participating groups showed cuts of their dancing repertoir.
They then took a two-hour break for lunch and rest.
At three, they were on their feet again. They were street dancing at Parking E towards the North Concourse and then to the East Concourse before going to the South Concourse passing through the Grand Caprice restaurant and the
Finally, at four in the afternoon, the competition program started. The guidelines and criteria for judging were read. The judges were also introduced.
Dr. Elnora Almohoro, regional head of the Physical Education and School Sports of the Department of Education (DepEd) 10, chaired the board of judges. The other judges were Mr. Decius Esmedalla of the Department of Tourism 10, Dr. Glenn Reyes of the Mindanao Polytechnic State College (MPSC) and Mr. Sunnie Noel of Sining Kambayoka,
During the post-competition interview,
“Last year, we also had the Sinulog but there was not competition,” Ms. Gallardo told the Golden Chronicle, adding that what were presented were even more colorful and better choreographed compared to last year’s.
This, he said, despite the short notice that was given to the performers, adding that “they must have already prepared for it.”
For his part, tourism operations officer Decius “Yoyong” Esmedalla of the Department of Tourism region10, who was one of the judges said the Sinulog sa Limketkai was “festive” since “it employed unusual colors, sights and sounds” in that particular area of the city on that day.
Awarding ceremonies was hosted by BJ Baloncio, former host of defunct variety show Tsada over ABS-CBN Cagayan de Oro who now employed in a local Metrobank branch.
Cagayan de Oro Fame 2006 monthly winners Winston C. Lim (September) and Jurillyn Mae Padios (August) gave entertaining musical numbers during the program.
Limketkai Center chief executive officer Albino Lim together with administrative officer Leoncio Ang were among those who enjoyed watching the performances and witnessed the awarding ceremonies at the Atrium.
Organized by a Sinulog sa Limketkai 2007 Committee, this year’s street-dancing and tableau competitions was sponsored by Limketkai Sons, Inc., Cagayan Photo Center Fujifilm, RCPI, Modtrade, Fernie J. Advertising, Mister Donut, Mindanao Solidmark, Inc., Dunkin Donuts Pasalubong ng Bayan, NM Marketing and KFC.
1st RUNNER UP. Tribu Ati-atihan of Barangay 35 move according to the Sinulog beat while chanting, Pit Senyor! Viva Senyor Santo Niño.
AT THE CATHEDRAL. Sinulog dancers inside the St. Augustine Cathedral.
Predicting the future in the year of the Pig
Pigs want to do everything properly and to succeed on merit. Most of them would take enormous pleasure and pride in knowing that they could leave their descendants a good inheritance and will willingly struggle to obtain this.
By TERRY D.C. BETONIO
Contributing Editor
Goodbye 2006… Hello 2007. We do not know how would we fare this year but definitely we could make an assessment of how did we fare in the year that was.
During my childhood days, my relatives would often tell me that the first animal who would make a sound at 12 midnight on January 1 would be the animal that would rule the year. Years later, I learned it is the Chinese who sort of assigned an animal that would rule the year.
So based on the Chinese calendar, the year 2007 would be ruled over by the domesticated animal Pig.
The year of the Pig is the last in the 12-animal cycle and based on the book Oriental Astrology, it is a time for tying up loose ends. It may represent the reaping of karmic benefits for good deeds done in the past years but may also be a phase of remorse or regret for those who have acted unwisely in the past.
But, irrespective of events during the last 12 years, the year of the Pig will be a time for reflection. It could signify a period of glory or for deciding what would be best for the future. Or it may even be a time for simply resting on one’s laurels and enjoying one’s rewards.
People who were born in the year of the Pig – 1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983 and 1995 – are considered home-lovers whose prime concern is the welfare of their families. Although they may have careers, their main interest lies in the long-term benefits that come at the end of life.
Pigs want to do everything properly and to succeed on merit. Most of them would take enormous pleasure and pride in knowing that they could leave their descendants a good inheritance and will willingly struggle to obtain this.
Pigs are also meticulously tidy and efficient. They are always interested in making improvements and many of them are excellent craftsmen or avid do-it-yourselfers. They enjoy making others feel comfortable and some are even drawn to the caring professions such as medicine or nursing while others happily make a career in catering.
People born in the Pig years have limitless tolerance and are known to stick by their friends or partners despite any weakness in their natures. They often attract those with problems such as drugs, drinking, gambling or infidelity. But perhaps, Pigs should learn to say “no” sometimes and issue ultimatum to those who will push their tolerance to the limits.
But whatever way we look at 2007, this year would definitely be still a year of struggle and hard work to attain our dreams. After all, we live to earn, to enjoy and reap the fruits of our labor. May all of us have a fruitful 2007 ahead.
Renewal of vows for Calang couple
Those who attended the ceremony--for the oath-taking and the renewal of marital vows of the Calang couple--the occasion was also a special as it enable them to reexamine one’s roles as ‘the salt of the earth.’
By URIEL C. QUILINGUING
Executive Editor
Twenty-eight of December is a special day for the Calang family.
This is the wedding day of Bishop Felixberto “Bert” L. Calang of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) and Sister Leonila “Leonie” Salom-Calang who, after 25 years, have been blessed with five children; Jung, Jubilee Joy, Jollibeen, Juffel and Jamie Lee.
Two of the Calang children have already finished college. Jung is now an aeronautical engineer of Luftansa Technik which is based at Nichols Airbase in Pampanga while Jubilee Joy is momentarily residing in
The other two, Jollibeen and Juffel, are still in college and both are students of the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) in
Jamie Lee, the youngest, is a first-year high school student and is staying with her mother in Bayugan, Agusan del Sur.
“
Last Thursday, the Calang couple, who tied their matrimonial knot at the IFI Parish Church of Cabugao, Ilocos Sur in 1981, renewed their marital vows since that day marked their silver wedding anniversary. And all their five children witnessed the ceremony at the IFI Parish Church of Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City.
Appropriately, the Gospel reading during the Thanksgiving Mass—for the Silver Wedding Anniversary and the Oath-taking of the Officers of the Diocese--was taken from Matthew 5:23 which states that “You are the salt of the earth.”
During the renewal of marital vows, Bishop Bert and Sister Leonie chorused in saying: “Karong adlawa, atong isaad ang pagkamatinud-anon sa usa’g-usa ug sa banay nga atong nabuhat sulod sa 25 ka mga tuig sa atong kaminyoon. Si Hesus nag-ingon ‘Kamo ang asin sa kalibutan’ ug, sama sa asin, ‘ang matag
Later, the Calang couple added by saying: Mahimo kitang kalainan sa kalami sa kalibutan nga atong gipuy-an, ingon nga ang asin mohatag sa kalami sa pagkaon. Atong babagan ang pagkadunot sa moralidad sa atong katilingban ingon nga ang asin magpreserba sa pagkaon gikan sa pagkadaut. Kay kun mawad-an na kkita’g kadasig sa pagka-asin sa kalibutan wala na usab kitay bili sa Diyos.
All the five Calang offsprings simultaneously responded, saying: Magpasalamat kita sa ginikanhong pag-amoma, sa panahon nga gigahin, ug sa pagsabut ug pagsuporta nga naagkon gikan kanila nga ang tuyyo mao ang kaayohan isip ilang mga anak.
While the Right Reverend Felixberto L. Calang was the chief celebrant of the Holy Mass for Thanksgiving, assisting him were Monsignor Eddie M. Galera and Monsignor Manuel Montes Jr. They were joined in by the Chaplains to the Bishop, Deacon Divino Aclan and Deacon Jesse Jesus Hanginan and presentors composed of Father Efren Jabiniar, Father Alberto Taban, Father Robert Kionisala, Father Isabelo Igloria, Sister Erlinda T. Cartagena, Engr. Lucille Galorport, and Sister Shiela Mae Cambangay.
Readers were Kathleen Yañez of the first reading, Framz Mandawe for the second reading, and Father Ludito Lumamba for the Gospel. Community prayer leaders were Reyno Sevilla and Jubilee Joy S. Calang.
Hymns were excellently sang by the Sultana Choir members.
Those who attended the ceremony--for the oath-taking and the renewal of marital vows of the Calang couple--the occasion was also a special as it enable them to reexamine one’s roles as ‘the salt of the earth.’
Create a free website at Webs.com