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vol. XX, No. 33 Bicol, the philippiNes feBruary 10-16, 2013 p5.00

Naga BOSS yields P153M in tax assessment The business tax assessment of the City

Government of Naga is taking an upward trend every year.

This was gleaned from the reports released by the City Treasurer’s Office (CTO)

which shows that the valu-ation for the current year allows the local govern-ment to achieve a whoop-ing P153, 538, 651.48, which is higher by 8% than that of last year’s.

The local government was able to acquire P135, 121, 018.47in business tax assessment last year, P124, 372, 845.75 in 2011 and P101, 647, 732.61 in 2010.

The 2013 figure was attained because of an ef-fective tax drive being implemented by the admin-istration of Mayor John G. Bongat who also assured local businessmen here that the city government is not considering any increase yet in the city’s tax rates.

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Naga creates registry to

benefit solo parents,

kidsBy JaSON B. NeOla

Single parents in Naga need not feel alone in facing the challenges of raising their families with the city doing its best to help them in their roles as heads of families through programs designed to address their needs.

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Sarion’s US trip to gaineconomic, tourism

opportunities

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By ROSalita B. MaNlaNgit

DAET, Camarines Norte -- The munici-pal government here has gained economic growth and tourism development opportu-nities following the trip of Mayor Tito Sarte Sarion (inset photo) to the United States of America (USA) with the prospect of invest-ment and tourism activities.

Sarion attended the Sister Cities International Inau-gural Gala celebrating the inauguration of US President Barack Obama on January 15 at the US Chamber of Commerce, Washington D.C. and met with state offi-cials for the implementation of programs and activities among the sister cities.

Sarion said one prospective investor, a native of this town, has confirmed his investment in a call center venture here, citing expensive operational expenses of the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry in the US.

He also met with Mayor Michael Gray of Washing-ton D.C., strengthening the ties of Daet with its interna-tional networks in the sister cities in US.

Sarion also met with leaders of Filipino-American communities, including Loida Nicolas Lewis, a Sor-sogon province native and a distinguished business-woman.

SiSteR CitieS iNteRNatiONal iNaUgURal gala

outstaNdiNg local NewspaperFor Five Consecutive YearsSt. Peter Baptist Catholic Mass Media Awards

www.bikolreporter.webs.com e-mail: bikol_reporter@yahoo.com

regioNal eXpoNeNt for progressvol. XX, No. 32 Bicol, the philippiNes feBruary 3 - 9, 2013 p5.00

1985

WillprintQuality Printing

Excellent Service

Mayor BONgat

Bikol reporter2 feBruary 10 - 16, 2013oPinion

opinionsunlimited

Atty. TONY (APA) ACYATANOil production in Southeast Asia is

projected to be flat in the coming years. This will trigger the search for other sources of energy – and among the ready alternates as consumption sources are natural gas deposits within the region. The Recto Bank (also known as Reed Bank) is located in the disputed area. It is the subject of current arbitration case filed by the Philippines before the UN Arbitral Tribunal.

INFLATION: Both credit and consumption are encouraged in times of lower or affordable inflation rates. These are signals of economic growth as producers and consumers are emboldened to go on with their respective activities The Phl medium-term inflation target has been lowered to 2.4% for 2015-2016, down from 3% to 5% this year and in 2014. This statistics augur well for P-Noy and his fiscal advisers, even as more foreign investments could be expected.

Hand in hand with the lower inflation projection, banks are encouraged to lend

more to business and industry, as well as to household borrowers. Since consumers are expected to purchase more, then our factories can go on producing merchandise. On the housing front, since both inflation and interest rates are stable, housing subdivision owners and realty developers will be able to sell more units even if they be payable via medium or long-term installments.

CAMPAIGN: Effective today – the campaign season for senatoriables starts. The COMELEC is now hard put monitoring the campaign expenditures of the candidates and their supporters. The use of both media and social media is being controlled – a very hard task to implement. The electoral body would like to even up the electoral playing field – but in the end, we surmise that as far as campaign info is concerned – the more moneyed aspirants will have the upperhand.

It is our fervent prayer that our voters will no longer sell their votes. The measly pesos with which they may exchange their votes for may actually lead into the election of unqualified (but corrupt) bets. If the voter is offered “lagay” for his singular vote, we urge him to accept the money but vote nonetheless according to his clear conscience. The honest, qualified aspirants will not resort to vote-buying since he knows the intelligent votes will go to him!

PROVERB: A wicked man accepts bribes in secret; in the end the course of justice is perverted.

(Atty. APA – chairs Acyatan & Co., CPAs-DFK International – is PICPA past president and Hall-of-Famer, past chair of ASEAN Federation of CPAs, and ACPAPP Lifetime Achievement Awardee).

STRONGER: The Phl peso is getting “stronger” and the only reason why it is now statistically surging is because the Bangko Sentral is holding down the local currency’s strength. The monetary authorities’ reason is practical. If the peso gets “overvalued” largely due to the inflow of “hot money” getting into our stock exchange, the dollar receipts of our exporters and OFWs’ will translate into lesser pesos.

As we have written earlier – the uncontrolled inflow of flirty investment funds may convert into disaster if said money traders suddenly leave, bringing out their dollars. The peso will immediately depreciate in exchange value, even as our foreign exchange stocks (in our Gross International Reserve) will be reduced. As foreign investors make volume withdrawals, stock prices will plummet down which can trigger the collapse of our Philippine stock exchange.

SPRATLYS: Many are surprised why our neighbors are now contesting our claims in the Western Philippine Sea. The secret is now out. The controversial area is estimated to contain 5.4 billion barrels of oil and 55.l trillion cubic feet of natural gas. These resources are “likely located in the contested Reed Bank at the northeast end of the Spratlys claimed by China, Taiwan and Vietnam. No less than the US Energy Information Agency released the valuable technical input.

PHL peso now stronger

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The overseas Filipinos, whatever their jobs, are our ambassadors to the world. They represent the country in unofficial capacity. Foreigners see the Philippines through our expatriates, how our expatriates comport themselves in their host country and why they leave home.

With an estimated 90 per cent of the overseas workers employed in menial jobs as domestic helpers, construction workers, entertainers, what do you think would be our image in foreign peoples’ minds.

While well-off countries send their citizens abroad as tourists to consume far –off wonders, our country send people outside its shores to work in rich households as domestic helpers or caregivers.

Filipinos in distant lands do not find life a bed of roses. They are on a constant struggle to stay sane because of overpowering loneliness and difficult working condition.

The story, recently published in a Manila daily, about a domestic helper who lost her mind after only a month abroad, according to a state official, tells us how much our people suffer in foreign lands.

It is never too easy to leave home for abroad on a one or two or three years contract especially for married women.

The day when a Filipino no longer leaves home for rich countries to work is not yet in the horizon. The much-vaunted economic miracle achieved by the Aquino administration has not benefitted the overseas workers and their families.

They are still hungry, still hopeless, still frustrated, still miserable. There is little food

on their table, little job opportunities, little money for their basic needs.

When will the Pinoy get a taste of the good life enjoyed by his Asian neighbors. Kung patay na ang kabayo? The horse is almost in a coma, barely alive.

The steady climb of the peso against the US dollar has brought more woes to families of overseas workers. Many have complained that they cannot make both ends meet. The peso has cut deep into their monthly allowances.

The peso is not buying more basic goods. It is buying less. And it cannot be stretched. It will break if forced to.

The poor cannot understand the language of economists who said better times are at hand. What they know is that today’s peso has not been of help to them.

They are not mesmerized by the World Bank’s description of the Philippines as the rising tiger in Asia. If it is good news, it is an empty one.

They do not see a new dawn breaking

the Pinoy’s only choice

same.The Transitory Provision of House Bill

4820 provides the following: Section 59. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect (15) fifteen days upon its publication in any newspaper of general circulation.

Plebiscite will be within (60) sixty days after publication.

Those in power and are opposing the creation of Nueva Camarines will no longer be in power by that time as their term already expired.

* * * * *

President Benigno Aquino III publicly endorsed the Liberal Party’s senatorial ticket in different parts of the country saying they can be trusted to follow his “Daang Matuwid”. I wonder if all of them are fit to be in that line-up. When I saw Jamby Madrigal’s TV ad, I remember she denounced Senator Manny Villar’s C-5 Road Project. When I see Sen. Trillanes’ TV ad, I remember Ambassador Brady’s report about his unfavorable situation to the Philippines as negotiator to China regarding Spratly Islands.

The Constitution provides in Executive, Legislative and Judicial branch of the government which are separate and co-equal with each other. So, it is just right to elect senators who will be independent minded but not obstructive irrespective of what political party they belong.

* * * * * The United Nationalist Alliance (UNA)

has also announced its senatorial slate. Zambales Rep. Mitos Magsaysay, UNA secretary general Nancy Binay and San Juan City Rep. JV Ejercito reportedly said, UNA is not an obstructive group. We

Those who had been saying that House Bill 4820 proposing the creation of Nueva Camarines is already dead were proven wrong when the Senate unanimously approved it on second hearing last February 5, 2013. Deputy Speaker Arnulfo “Noli” Fuentebella said that when Congress resumes on June 5, 2013, it will be approved on third and final reading. Actually, this is just a formality since it was already approved on second reading and unanimously at that.

After the Senate’s approval, the bill will be signed by Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and Speaker Feliciano Belmonte and it will be taken to the President for his signature. Pres. Noynoy Aquino will very likely sign it since he approved and gave funds for the holding of a plebiscite in Camarines Sur. The President also believes like the sponsor of this bill Congressmen Noli Fuentebella, Luis R. Villafuerte, Nonoy Andaya and Dato Arroyo, that the people should decide and express their sentiments through a plebiscite whether they are for or against the creation of Nueva Camarines. This will take place after the May 13, 2013 election. It cannot be together with the election because the issues are not the

Senate approved HB 4820 Creating Nueva Camarines, lP’s and UNa’s Platforms & Feast of lourdes

NENITA FuENTEBELLA-PEÑONES

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window

MatteRS OFCONSeqUeNCe

rodolfo ‘Sonny’Sb. virtuS jr.

intermission Number

lee g. dullesco iiHead, Advertising Associates

0920-533-7766

I can still recall when I was a second grader at the University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) during the Linggo ng Wika celebration in 1990, my class adviser, Ma’am Fe Valenciano, asked me to give an intermission number in our class. I could not say, “No” to my teacher who even informed my mother, a teacher in the secondary level of the same school, about it. So that night, my mother coached me in singing Isang Lahi, which was probably the only song I memorized at that time because it was one of Manay Cynthia’s, my elder sister, contest pieces. The next day, I sang in front of my classmates in a small class program. Then, Ma’am Fe brought me and other older students to Aling Sonia’s program at Bombo Radyo to sing on-air. AM radio-listening was a popular means of entertainment at that time, so many of our neighbors and relatives heard me sing.

That was my earliest moment of inspiration, the first time that someone other than my parents saw some potential in me and gave me a “break.” In my next opportunity to sing, I faced a big crowd at the UNC Gymnasium comprised of the school community and the Naga City general public during that year’s Founder’s Day outreach. Even today, twenty-three years later, my mind can still replay the memory of that time when I crooned The Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody,” which was a hit movie soundtrack that year. While I sang, the crowd applauded three times, especially when I reached the second to the last line which goes, “I need your love...” In my very limited appreciation then of the word “inspiration,” that moment was what totally defined it.

Before this important point in my very young life, I did not know that I could sing. I was first labeled as paraadal and magpapadion but not parakanta. It was Manay Cynthia, my elder sister who used to be the singer in the family – that is, before the time of my “discovery.” She spent a significant part of her childhood years singing at every pageant and baraylehan in Brgy. Lerma, where we lived, and joining singing contests during town fiestas. I even remember how one time, Mama and she came home with a bag full of groceries as a prize for her having won in Dalan sa Kalangitan, a popular amateur contest then.

I was a “regular” elementary student. I barely managed to make it to the ‘Challengers list’ and never made it to the Top 10. So I tried to be the best instead in the field that I just found: singing. I was inspired and, at the same time, pressured by my teachers to memorize songs which were usually Mama’s choices namely, those of Basil Valdez, Rey Valera, Martin Nievera. I practiced hard in our old Astron karaoke, which slowly became my constant companion. Mama trained me in singing with the same zeal with which she trained her students in speech delivery. She would be very meticulous with how I enunciated every lyric of the song, how I positioned my hand so as to keep proper distance between this and the microphone, and how I projected myself on stage. Many times, our training sessions ended up with her scolding me as I always forgot the lyrics. That would be her cue to tell me to memorize my song first so she could use our karaoke and sing her favorite Blue Bayou.

From Grade 2 to 6, I sang in many other venues and occasions in and out of campus – from singing Ako ay Pilipino during flag ceremony to serenading ladies who were ten years

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Salvador d. flor

A QuestioN

ofprivilege

Bikol reporter 3feBruary 10 - 16, 2013

‘Operation Baklas’ targets political ads on trees

gov’t, Jollibee sign deal to turn ‘hot logs’

into school chairs

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MilestoNe ACHieveMeNts gBClaveRia/daNRey

Just after the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of CamSur last tuesday, February 5, an activity was conducted marking two singular achievements of the provincial legislative branch. First is the book launching of the first volume of the Book of Ordinances, a codification of all ordinances enacted by the SP in the last twenty years , i.e., from 1992, the year after passage of R.A. 7160, the Local Government Code of 1991, up to 2012, a copy of the compilation ceremonially presented (top photo) to vice governor Fortunato Pena by acting provincial secretary Nimfa B. Cas; and the second being the launching of SP’s e-legislative Management System which includes, among others, facilities for paperless session, the first of its kind in the Bicol Region making CamSur the third province in the entire country to use such a system.

PNP Bicol needs 454 new copsLEGAZPI CITY -- The

Philippine National Po-lice (PNP) in Bicol is cur-rently recruiting over 400 men and women who will compose the region’s new corps of police non-com-missioned officers (PNCO) for the first semester of this year.

Supt. Renato Bataller, the PNP regional spokesman based at Camp Gen. Simeon Ola, on Monday said that in-terested applicants can now submit their applications to the municipal police offices in their respective home-towns.

A total of 454 slots for

daet gets PCSO ambulance

Mayor SaRiON

By ROSalita B. MaNlaNgit

DAET, Camarines Norte -- The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has approved the release of an ambulance for the mu-nicipal government here.

Mayor Tito Sarte-Sarion said the ambulance cost P2 million with a P400,000-counterpart from the munici-pal government being a first class municipality.

He said the town has two ambulances in bad condition and the new one would help the three rural health units (RHUs) during emergencies.

Sarion added that with the ambulance, better service will be delivered to the indi-gent patients of the town.

The local government has

the rank of Police Officer 1 (PO1) are up for grabs in this recruitment to further meet the required number of police personnel in the region. The recruitment for the second se-mester of last year had filled up 519 slots.

There had been many cases of retirement and sepa-ration from service late last year, thus, the need for new recruits to also serve as re-placements, Bataller said.

Successful applicants are those who can submit com-plete requirements, hurdle demanding interviews and pass the written, physical and neurological examinations.

The new recruits will take their oath as PO1s on March 1 before they undergo the Re-gional Training School (RTS) for a six-month schooling and training on basic police course.

After graduation from the RTS, they will be fielded to a six-month in-service training in various police field units in the region.

Upon completion of the training, they will start their regular assignments in their mother units or the municipal police offices of their home-towns where they filed their applications, Bataller said. (PNA)

UNeP ROtC spearheads “Mabuhay RaaPe 2013”

University of Northeast-ern Philippines (UNEP) President Atty. Remelisa Moraleda welcomed guests, visitors, contingents, and the entire UNEP communi-ty in the recently concluded

Regional Administrative Annual Performance Eval-uation here.

Moraleda commended the officers and members of UN-EP’s ROTC, known as the finest unit of the university’s

LEGAZPI CITY –- Can-didates in the May 2013 elections would be wasting money for their campaign ads that will be fixed with nails and staple wires on living trees as the Depart-ment of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is hell-bent on dismantling them at once.

“We are ready with our ‘Operation Baklas’ to deal with these illegal political advertisements everywhere around Bicol,” Gilbert Gon-zales, the DENR regional ex-ecutive director based at the regional government center in Barangay Rawis here, on Monday announced.

Gonzales made the an-nouncement in anticipation of the campaign period that starts Feb. 12, for national candi-dates eyeing Senate seats as well as party lists representa-tions in the Lower House and March 29 for candidates in local positions from congress-man, governor, vice-governor, provincial board members, mayors, vice-mayors and mu-nicipal/city councilors.

DENR field personnel and deputized agents will be go-ing around places on a daily routine starting on the first day of the campaign period to immediately remove nailed or stapled campaign parapherna-lia on trees, he said.

This operation is to protect the trees, the DENR regional chief said, as he warned that his office will not hesitate to impose penalties to those who will be caught nailing post-ers, billboards, tarpaulins and streamers on any living tree, be it in private properties, along roads and highways or

public parks.Using trees along roads

and highways and in almost all conspicuous places to display campaign materials has been a common practice among politicians and their supporters and it is high time now that it should be stopped, being not good for the tree, he stressed.

“The practice terribly hurts the tree, especially when the posters are fastened on the trunk and branches with nails or staple wires. These materi-als inflict wounds on the trees

resulting in high level of in-fections,” according to Gon-zales.

These infections affect the growth of the tree and could even result in its slow death, he said.

Charges may also be lodged against candidates who own the paraphernalia for violation of Resolution No. 7767 of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in ac-cordance with Republic Act 9006 otherwise known as the Fair Election Act.

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constructed two RHUs worth P4 million. Two million came from the prize money given to them as winner of the seal of housekeeping millennium challenge of the Department of the Interior and Local Gov-ernment (DILG) last year and the P2 million was the local government’s counterpart.

The government’s logs-to-chair project got a major boost with the Department of Environment and Natu-ral Resources (DENR) and two other agencies signing a P2-million deal with fast-food giant Jollibee to pro-duce school chairs out of confiscated logs.

DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje signed on Wednes-day a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) president Grace Tan Caktiong, Secretary Armin Luistro of the Department of Educa-tion (DepEd) and Director General Joel Villanueva of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

Department of Science and Tactic and commended the participants for continuing the finest tradition of disci-pline and leadership that the late Camarines Sur Governor Felix O. Alfelor has entrusted to them.

Dubbed “Mabuhay RAAPE 2013”, the Regional Administrative Annual Per-formance Evaluation was held this year at the Univer-sity of Northeastern Philip-pines (UNEP) Grounds on January 29. Col. Reley M. Majadillas (ret), Brigade Commander of the 1702nd Brigade, 17th RR Division of the Philippine Army graced the said occasion.

LTC Deogracias S. Doque (FA) PA, UNEP ROTC Unit Commandant led the turn over of the corps of cadet to Majadillas and was followed by the ceremonial parade, inspection in ranks and the dismounted company drill during the day .

Cadets and cadets were also subjected to a compre-hensive examination for MS-2, MS-32 and MS-42 ca-dets, MO1-Tac NCO for 2nd class cadets, and OPORD writing and Map reading for

tHY WoMB From left: Ms. Millie dizon, SM vP for Marketing and Communications, director Brillante Mendoza and Mayor John Bongat during the launching of the award winning film Thy Womb held recently at the event center, SM City Naga. Thy Womb was simultaneously shown at the four cinemas of SM Naga. after the movie, viewers got the chance to interact with the famous director in the q and a activity. the said event was done in celebration of the National arts Month which opened last January 31 and will run through-out the month of February.

newS

Bikol reporter4 feBruary 10 - 16, 2013etCeterA

iNNer chessBy J. HeNRy daNiCaN

DR. MARILISSA j. AMPuANPresident, Bicol Association of Tourism

and Hospitality Educators (BATHE)

Tourists from different countries have recently shown their interest in Southeast Asia making the region as the newest cruise destination. This encouraging development would in effect boosts the tourism industry in our country by getting its fair share of tourists arrival through cruise shipping next to Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore including Indonesia. An added feather in the cap surely this will be for the Department of Tourism which is working really hard to make tourism an industry which all of us can be proud of. We have our reasons to be bullish on the tourism front with the continuous stopovers of international cruise liners to our ports. A case in point is the inaugural call to the Philippines during the last quarter of 2012 of Miami, Florida USA based Royal Caribbean’s “Legend of the Sea”. On board the cruise ship were 2500 foreign tourists. They toured Manila’s historical sites and at the same time enjoyed the world famous white sand beach in Boracay, Aklan. Upon reaching the place, they were amazed to see for themselves the exquisite beauty of Boracay, a tourist’s haven which can only be found in the Philippines.

It is a heartwarming to note that with the tourism campaign being waged by our government the continued tourist’s arrivals had been increasing through the years making it possible for us to achieve our target goal of tourism growth up to the year 2016. It being the case our shared commitment in making tourism as the centerpiece of our development as a nation will ultimately benefit our people. For this reason alone it will not be farfetched for

our tourism stakeholders to anticipate the concommitant effect in tourism which is job generation as a result of this booming industry. It goes without saying that it has it’s trickle effect considering that for every tourism activity jobs are generated for those who need it most. Cited as an example of new jobs currently becoming popular among tourists stakeholders are tour guides. Where before these jobs are not given the importance it is the other way around now in view of its importance to group tours who are now going to our famous tourism sites and destinations. These tour guides are now recognized as indispensible partners in the sustained growth in many tourism hubs all over the country. A case in point are the tour guides of the famous underground river in

Palawan recognized as one of the new “Seven Wonders of the World”. Due to its popularity more and more foreign tourists are continuously coming not only through Ninoy Aquino International and Cebu International Airport but by the sea. Many cruise ship operators have expressed their desire in including the Philippines as a destination comparable if not better than other countries which are usually visited by tourists.

It is expected that our country will be able to realize over 5 million tourists this year generating at the same time an income of P1.5 trillion for the tourism industry. Our tourism stakeholders are full of optimism with these developments. Cruise lines are now making its regular stop in Manila as part of their tour package. Our tourism roadmap has for its purpose the creation of tour packages showcasing magnificent attractions and exquisite amenities under “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign slogan.

It would therefore be safe to say that cruise tourism does not in itself transform a place as a haven for tourists. There is that proverbial assurance that for tourists’ arrivals to happen we must develop and upgrade our seaports, terminals and facilities to meet international cruise shipping standards including the cooperation and networking with international cruise operators. If these things will happen we will be assured of more international cruise liners arriving in the Philippines. In doing so, we could raise our nation’s profile as a world class tourist’s destination.

older than I in pageants at the auditorium of then Colegio de Sta. Isabel. I joined the combined UNC college and elementary choirs, which performed Bikol songs in events like the Caceres Quadricentennial concert at the Metropolitan Cathedral in 1995. I joined a few contests as well. I still keep a copy of one issue of “Children’s World,” the elementary department’s paper, where my photo as I sang my winning piece “Nais Ko” appeared.

It was my younger sister Sweet who was somehow influenced by Manay Cynthia to enter in singing competitions. There was a time when she joined PTV 5’s “A Star” and became a defending champion for three weeks with her winning pieces I Dreamed a Dream and Cabaret. Sweet became our instant favorite singer in the family because of her confidence when performing and her Zsazsa Padilla-like vibrato.

Our youngest, John Rudolf, found interest in dancing first. When he was about five years old, he did a solo dance of the Extasy Extano, which easily roused the crowd at Lerma basketball court to exhilaration because of his kolokoy movements. But as soon as he entered grade school in UNC, his teachers expected him, simply by virtue of his being a Virtus, to sing like his brother and sisters. And so he did. His entry to our little musical world made us officially the singing family on campus.

Our motivation behind singing was not just family or school pressure but our personal desire to sing as well. In fact, it became a regular habit and an opportunity for bonding for the family to do “karaoke” singing during weekends. And when Papa had visitors, it became a practice for them (the visitors) to call us one by one and sing for them. As if on cue, we would proceed to do so like a ready multiplex ready to be played: Manay Cynthia would sing Hiram; I would sing Nais ko; Sweet would do Cabaret; and John, Father and Son. Unfailingly, the visitors would express their appreciation for our performances and tell my proud parents, “Swertehon man kamo. Matitibay magkanta ang mga aki nindo.”

As I entered high school, I started to feel awkward in singing solo. That was also the time when I wanted to explore my other potentials and pursue other interests that did not involve a huge, visible audience. I joined “Trailblazer,” the UNC high school paper, where I could not see my audience as I wrote news stories, features and poems. I did elocution and oratorical speaking, which involved smaller audiences. In these areas, I found new niches. I was not just singing the way I mostly did in elementary. I was also writing and speaking! I expanded my horizons and grew as a student and as a person even though doing intermission numbers was still part of my routine. In fact, one of my favorite performances in high school was a duet with Manay Cynthia of the song One Sweet Day. We did this song twice in UNC and once in a radio contest in DWOK FM.

One of the best things that happened to me in high school was becoming part of the UNC High School “Choralaires.” Manay Cynthia and I joined the choir at the same time. Later, when we both were already in college, Sweet and John became part of the choir, too. Ma’am Quennie Miranda was our ever supportive trainer and friend. It was through her also that we became members of the “Voce Christiana,” a church choir which became active in the 90’s until the mid-2000. We served with the mass choir at the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral every Saturday evening and during the Siete Palabras mass. We also sang during different occasions – weddings, funerals and Christmas caroling.

I can still remember my last two performances during my final year in high school: a quartet singing of When I Fall in Love and If I Could Spend my Lifetime Loving You at the Senior’s Prom, and a solo of Here I am Lord during the baccalaureate mass before the graduation rites.

Those were just about the last times I sang in public. When I went to Manila to study, I practically left singing at home. I did try joining a school choir, the “UP Vocal Ensemble,” but I had to leave it because of its great demands for rehearsals. Even when I returned to Naga to continue my college and get a job, singing did not have a place in my extra-curricular activities anymore. I was invited by Ma’am Queenie to return to the “Voce Christiana” in their parish now, the Holy Cross Parish in Tabuco, Naga City, but I just ignored the invitation. As such, without any venue to regularly practice for the last fourteen years, my voice naturally deteriorated. This fact makes me feel guilty sometimes as I recall what my parents used to tell me about singing, “Dai mo pabayaan ang boses mo ta regalo ‘yan.”

My participation in the “Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program” (SSEAYP) as diplomatic and cultural ambassador evoked my childhood memories as I had to contribute something to the Philippine delegation’s cultural presentation. I could not dance, so I joined our choir. Indeed, the experience gave me a sense of fulfillment as I led our contingent’s choir in singing the nationalistic songs Bayan Ko and provided support in rendering Tagumpay Nating Lahat and Ako ay Pilipino in Manila and Japan. During the program abroad, I also initiated the formation of a ‘boy band’, The Vending Machine, which performed three times on board the ship “Fuji Maru.” Those performances were not only some of my proudest moments as a Filipino, but they were also a dream-come-true for me to sing again.

Looking back to where the exciting part of my life started, I can say that I was never the same again after those moments of inspiration in my second grade. Not only did this event launch my little singing ‘career’ during my ten-year basic education years and give me bragging rights and colorful childhood memories. More importantly, the experiences it eventually afforded also gave me a positive self-image and precedents that showed me how I could later succeed in my other endeavors. Indeed, those times have had great impact on me and my life during all the subsequent years up to the present time. In my memory, I still continue to hear a young boy with a determined voice singing while dreaming: Nais kong malibot ang mundo sa kanyang kasuluk-sulukan/ Nais kong makita ang paligid na puno ng kagandahan/ Nais kong makadama ng kakaibang damdamin kahit minsan man lang/habang ako ay may buhay, wala nang hangarin pang tunay/ Nais ko… nais ko…

[For your comments or suggestions, please email me at sonny.virtus@gmail.com]

matters of coNsequeNce . . .

for them. They see a pitch dark night.How will they clap their hands when they do not feel a sense

of relief. The poor are still poor, the rich are still rich. The bad guys in the government are still in power. And they expect to be there until the end of the world.

Our system is seemingly best suited for the bad guys. They have nothing to fear. If they pocket government funds and charges are brought against them, they can easily dodge the charges. They have money. They can hire a battery of top-notch lawyers

So they plunder the treasury and let their lawyers keep them out of jail.

How many of the biggest crooks have landed in jail? You can count them by your fingers.

The Chinese have boasted that their system is the best in the world. They can send big-time crooks to jail with less efforts. Due process is alien to them but it has worked to their great advantage.

That is near impossible in this country. You have to give the other guy a chance to explain his side. To deny him this right is to deny him due process.-

That is our greatest predicament. And I think, it is one reason why the Pinoy has remained destitute. His wealth is taken away from him by those whose sworn duty is to help him better his life.

His only choice is to go abroad.

a questioN of privilege . . .

Bikol reporter 5feBruary 10 - 16, 2013

Blend 45 takes pride in values of Pinoys in new campaign

Maalaga showcases the caring nature of Filipinos in the latest heartwarming commercial of Blend 45.

Innately helpful and car-ing, Filipinos have been known to go out of their way to assist those in need, friends and strangers alike. The Pinoys’ pleasant nature and easy smile can make anyone feel at ease, while their com-passion and nurturing spirit can lift spirits even in the most distressing of times.

Blend 45 celebrates these exemplary Filipino traits, and more, with its new “Gising Pinoy!” campaign. Directed by Henry Frejas, the latest se-ries of TV commercials seeks to bring out the good and the admirable in the Filipino.

Depicting the thoughtful-ness of Pinoys, Maalalahanin (Blend 45 Puti) shows that a steaming cup of coffee and the kindness of a stranger are all it takes to make a tired soul feel better. Matulungin (Blend 45 Barako) showcases the readiness to lend a help-ing hand and proves that acts of help do not go unappreci-

ated. The sweetness and soft hearts of Pinoys take center stage in Malambing (Blend 45 Pula), while Maalaga (all variants) highlights their car-ing nature.

Just like these time-hon-ored Filipino values, Blend 45 also shows off the best homegrown Filipino fla-vors in its new 3-in-1 cof-fee blends. Blend 45 Puti captures the richness and creaminess of carabao’s milk,

while the delicate sweetness of brown sugar is showcased in Blend 45 Pula. Those with a fondness for the strong and bold taste of kapeng barako can find satisfaction in Blend 45 Barako.

Watch out for the latest Blend 45 commercials and wake up to the goodness of Filipino coffee flavors, only P4 per sachet in all leading supermarkets and groceries nationwide.

Sun Cellular continues to modernize customer service

Ten years after its grace-ful entry into the local telecommunications scene, renowned mobile service innovator Sun Cellular moves forward to modern-izing customer care with the unveiling of its intensi-fied roster of digital-based service channels.

“Apart from expanding our pervasive outlets of The Sun Shop nationwide, as well as our 24/7 service hotline, we continually look for new ways to serve our on-the-go customers who would require a more edgy and flexible type of communication with us,” says Reuben Pangan, Vice President for Customer Ser-vice Operations of Sun Cel-lular.

Among these new chan-nels, Pangan has highlighted Sun Cellular’s heightened 24/7 customer service operations through Facebook at www.facebook.com/suncellularph and through Twitter at www.twitter.com/suncelltweets.

“In the same way that the interaction means of our customers have evolved, we have also gone beyond our usual channels to make it convenient for them to reach out to us through their online social media pages and data-connected smartphones,” ex-plains Pangan.

And as the network con-tinues to fuel the smartphone growth in the country, it has also released a series of mo-bile applications for after-sales services and public in-formation.

Sun has launched the “Pocket Sun Shop” app which lets subscribers get easy ac-

cess postpaid promos, product information and registration links to Sun services. Func-tioning like a virtual branch of The Sun Shop, this app also leads Sun subscribers to top customer care processes like bills inquiry and hotline as-sistance.

In addition, Android us-ers may now enjoy the “Sun TAP” app which gives a quick and direct access to top public service hotlines, tourist sup-port and lifestyle deals in the country. Primarily designed to assist foreigners and inbound mobile roamers, the Sun TAP app promises to offer its users an informed and hassle-free travel experience in the Phil-ippines.

These mobile apps may now be downloaded for free via Android Playstore or Google Play using any data-connected smartphone that runs on the Android Operat-ing System.

“We’re set to continue de-veloping these apps even fur-ther to capture more features and maximize functionality for the users of today,” says Pangan. “We’re also looking forward to creating more rel-evant and interactive apps in the future,” he added.

Further to these channels, Sun Cellular also maintains a web chat service at http://suncswebchat2.sun.net.ph/webchat/ to specifically assist its broadband and roaming subscribers, as well as a text hotline service at 1200 for general service inquiries and concerns.

Sun Cellular is a member of the Philippine Long Dis-tance Telephone Co. Group.

Bank of the Philippine Islands has won for the 6th time, the Best Domes-tic Bank for the Philip-pines category in the 2012 Triple A Country Awards for Southeast Asia, given by The Asset. The As-set Triple A Awards are Asia’s defining recogni-tion for excellence in the industry, and well Into its second decade.

This reputation has been built upon the stringent methodology, combined with the rigorous approach to the selection of the win-ners of the coveted Triple A. The awards are adjudi-cated by The Asset’s Board

BPi bags “the asset triple a awards”of Editors who collective-ly have several decades’ worth of evaluating indus-try awards in Asia.

After reviewing each award submission those that are thought to be of merit, are then invited to a follow up presentation. Wherever possible the board will then conduct interview clients / investors after which point scores for both quantitative and qualitative factors are combined in the determina-tion of the winners.

The award was received by Senior Vice President and Head of Global Banking Head, Antonio V. Paner.

CEB adds flights for summer peakThe Philippines’ largest

national flag carrier, Cebu Pacific (PSE:CEB) mounts additional flights to select domestic and international destinations, in preparation for summer peak travel in the Philippines.

Starting March 11, there will be 12 weekly flights from Manila to Tagbilaran, gateway to the island of Bo-hol. CEB’s Manila-Tacloban service will also be 33 times weekly, starting March 31.

Flight frequencies to key domestic routes from Manila will also increase. There will

be up to seven daily Manila-Bacolod flights and up to six Manila-Kalibo flights start-ing March 31. Starting April 2, CEB will operate 15 daily flights between Manila and Cebu, and up to 10 daily flights between Manila and Davao.

CEB also boosts its Cebu hub with additional flights starting April 2. This includes flights from Cebu to Bacolod (thrice daily), Boracay (23 times weekly), Davao (four times daily), General Santos (10 times weekly), Legazpi (five times weekly), Puerto

Princesa (twice daily) and Siargao (six times weekly).

CEB will also operate five daily flights from Manila to Singapore starting March 23, and 12 weekly flights from

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BuSineSS newS

Bikol reporter6 feBruary 10 - 16, 2013

NaMe OF deCeaSed date OF iNteRMeNteMMaNUel C. Oliva January 3, 20131. CRiSPiNO C. RaÑOla JR January 3, 20132. CleMeNte F. SaN JOSe January 4, 20133. JOSe R. aBiOg January 4, 20134. FRaNCiSCO d. SiOSON January 5, 20135. MaRiNO O. villaNUeva January 5, 20136. gUStavO g. MORaleS January 12, 20137. eliaS v. BeleN January 7, 20138. ORlaNdO R. PRiela January 12, 20139. gORgONia a. delOS SaNtOS January 20, 201310. geRONiMO t. CHeNg SR. January 16, 201311. lOlita P. lORiN January 20, 201312. alySSa M. aleRa January 23, 201313. RaFael B. BlaSCO January 21, 201314. adela S. SiCeNa January 23, 201315. MaRiaNO C. adORNa JR. January 23, 201316. FeRNaNdO C. Rey January 27, 201317. MyRiaM SUSaN d. CaPaCiete January 26, 201318. aNtONiO e. URSUa SR. January 28, 201319. NOel U. CaPaCiete January 26, 201320.

are here to provide the necessary checks and balances needed for democracy to survive in this country.

If the policy and programs of the administration are effective and beneficial to the people, we will support them 100 percent. But if we see that there are issues, policies and programs that need to be corrected, addressed and done away with because they don’t serve the interest of the people, we will definitely speak out.”

Vice President Jejomar Binay said UNA is more of a true friend of P-Noy who does not hesitate to call your attention if a mistake is committed and will not sugar coat the truth.

So, the cards are open. LPs will run on P-Noy’s “Daang Matuwid” and the UNA as “Constructive Opposition”. I’ll vote based on the candidates’ performance, qualification, character and loyalty to our Republic.

* * * * * The 47th anniversary celebration of the traditional Pilgrimage to

the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes will be on February 11, 2013 in Abo, Tigaon, Camarines Sur. There will be a confession at 2:00 pm and Pontifical Eucharistic Healing Mass to be officiated by Most Rev. Rolando Octavus J. Tria Tirona, O.C.D., D.D., Archbishop of Caceres at 3:00 pm.

Everybody is invited to make a pilgrimage to Our Lady of Lourdes in Abo, Tigaon on this occasion. This yearly tradition started on February 11, 1966 after the late Congressman Felix A. Fuentebella accompanied by his wife, Rita, to a European pilgrimage that included Lourdes, France. Mrs. Fuentebella could not contain her grief after her son, Jovi, a scouter, died in a plane crash on their way to the World Scout Jamboree in Marathon, Greece on July 28, 1963. Only after praying in front of the Grotto did she feel relief from her anguish and pain.

As a thanksgiving, she had a chapel and a Grotto’s replica built on their propery in Abo. Since then, these chapel and grotto were inaugurated on February 11, 1966, the Fuentebella family has been propagating and celebrating the feast and devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes with a procession and Eucharistic healing mass.

from my wiNdow . . .

ViSiT OuR WEBSiTE:www.bikolreporter.webs.com

The city government, under the leadership of Mayor John G. Bongat, has undertaken concrete initiatives to prevent or mitigate the consequent problems of solo parenthood such as poverty, lack of em-ployment, children deprived of education and juvenile de-linquency.

One such initiative is the passage of Ordinance No. 2013-003 which mandates the creation of a solo parents’ office, providing welfare ser-vices, special privileges and benefits to the members of the sector and their children. It

Naga creates registry . . .also appropriates funds for the effective implementation of the program.

Some of the benefits that solo parents and their children can avail of are livelihood as-sistance, counselling, parent effectiveness, and critical in-cidence stress debriefing.

The measure also seeks to provide solo parents and their children with additional ser-vices in the form of tertiary scholarship assistance, basic educational and housing ser-vices, death/burial, medical and livelihood assistance.

To assure efficient imple-

mentation of the ordinance, the city will establish a city-wide registry that will contain an updated list of solo parents and their children.

The registry will be cre-ated and maintained by the City Social Welfare and De-velopment Office (CSWDO) in partnership with the Naga City Solo Parents Federation (NCSPF). A city-wide regis-tration of solo parents in the city’s 27 barangays was held on February 1 at the People’s Hall in the City Hall Com-pound.

Mayor Bongat said the activity will allow the city government to come up with database on the sector’s mem-bership and their dependents. “The database will serve as our tool in expediting the pro-

cesses involved in the delivery of various services to our solo parents.”

A total of 1,189 solo par-ents registered during the event, providing important information like names, ages, addresses, income sources, number of children and the circumstances leading to their being solo parents.

In an interview, Legacion said that he will continue to work for the betterment and welfare of the sector. He even thanked Mayor Bongat for supporting my idea to provide the Naga City Solo Parents Association with an office in-side the City Hall compound, which happened to be first LGU- established solo par-ents’ office in the Bicol Re-gion or even South Luzon.

(TESDA). The MOA signing was held at the DepEd Com-plex in Pasig City.

Paje said the agreement was part of the Aquino ad-ministration’s PNoy Baya-nihan Project in which the DENR turns over confiscated lumber to be made into chairs, desks and other school essen-tials for distribution to public schools nationwide.

“The PNoy Bayanihan Project is mutually beneficial to all parties as it hits three birds with one stone: it is a corruption-free way to dis-pose of confiscated logs, pro-vides alternative livelihood to manufacturers and addresses the shortage in physical facil-ities of our public schools,” Paje pointed out.

He added: “We are certain-ly glad that JGF has partnered with us to ensure the project’s sustainability and guarantee

gov’t, JolliBee sigN deal . . .that the youth, which iden-tifies with the company the most, will become the big-gest beneficiary.”

Under the MOA, the hot logs confiscated by the DENR will be turned over to TESDA, which has the man-power, training and produc-tion facilities to produce arm-chairs and other classroom furniture.

The DepEd would provide the designs and specifications for the furniture, including the values formation quotations and sayings to be painted at the back of the chairs, while a “seed fund” of P2 million will be given by JGF.

JGF also committed to oversee the manufacture of the chairs and coordinate with the DepEd in identifying school beneficiaries.

A technical working group will also be created, com-posed of representatives from each of the partners with TESDA as chair, to facilitate the implementation of the en-tire project.

For 2012, confiscated logs donated for the PNoy Baya-nihan Project were converted into more than 88,000 chairs, desks and other school furni-ture, and used to repair 378 public school buildings all over the country.

Manila to Bangkok starting April 1.

“These flight frequency increases are in line with brand-new A320 aircraft de-liveries in January and March, the first two of seven aircraft arriving this year. We look forward to flying our guests to their summer destinations with our brand-new aircraft, comprising one of the most modern fleets in the world,” CEB VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

“Shopping, beach, eco-adventure and surfing desti-nations continue to be more accessible with Cebu Pacif-ic’s network and trademark lowest fares. We encourage guests to plan their summer vacations now for the most travel savings,” she added.

CEB flew 13.26 million passengers from January to December 2012, an increase of 11% over 11.93 million passengers flown in 2011. In 2012, the airline launched 10

ceB adds flights . . .new domestic routes and 7 international routes, includ-ing flights from Manila to Hanoi and Siem Reap.

It is slated to launch flights from Manila to Bali on March 16, 2013, and Ma-nila to Dubai, its first long-haul destination, on October 7, 2013.

For bookings and inqui-ries, guests can go to www.cebupacificair.com, or call the reservation hotlines (02) 7020-888 or (032) 230-8888. The latest seat sales and pro-mos can also be found on CEB’s official Twitter and Facebook pages.

CEB currently operates 10 Airbus A319, 24 Airbus A320 and 8 ATR 72-500 aircraft. Between 2013 and 2021, CEB will take delivery of 18 more Airbus A320 and 30 Airbus A321neo aircraft orders. It is slated to begin long-haul services in the 2nd half of 2013, with the arrival of two Airbus A330 aircraft.

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He extended an invita-tion to the Bicolano Nation-al Association of America (BNAA), the largest network of Bicolanos in the US, to visit this town for tourism ac-tivities in time for the mem-bership convention slated on July 23 this year in Legazpi City.

Sarion also joined Philip-pine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia and international media persons Lily Chen of Asian Fortune, Daeteña Cza-rina Fernandez Jackson of Washington Post and Kitty Wang, senior reporter of NT-DTV Washington D.C. where the latter interviewed him.

sarioN’s us trip to . . .He said in a global per-

spective, Filipinos have to be vigilant so they can compete with other towns in inter-national countries since the Philippines is a small coun-try.

Sarion added that the US trip served as a venue to en-courage would-be-investors and tourists to invest and visit here, bringing economic development in Daet.

The trip was approved by the Department of the Interior and Local Govern-ment (DILG), provided that no expenses will be paid by the municipal government of Daet.

Bikol reporter 7feBruary 10 - 16, 2013

all unredeemed items/articles pawned at aSPe igUaldad PAWNSHOP, Cor. igualdad Ext. & J. Hernandez Ave., igualdad, Naga City, pawned from SePteMBeR 01-30, 2012 whose terms have expired will be sold to public auction sale on MaRCH 1, 2013 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 NOON.

Redemption/Renewals of all pledges covered by the above-mentioned date will be honored until FeBRUaRy 25, 2013 only. tHe MaNageMeNtBiKOl RePORteRPublished: FeBRUaRy 3 and 10, 2013

NotiCe to tHe puBliCAuCtioN sAle/suBAstA

all unredeemed items/articles pawned at aSPe eXPlOReR PAWNSHOP, Ground Floor, Bichara Complex, Abella St., igualdad, Naga City, pawned from SePteMBeR 01-30, 2012 whose terms have expired will be sold to public auction sale on MARCH 1, 2013 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 NOON.

Redemption/Renewals of all pledges covered by the above-mentioned date will be honored until FeBRUaRy 25, 2013 only. tHe MaNageMeNtBiKOl RePORteRPublished: FeBRUaRy 3 and 10, 2013

NotiCe to tHe puBliCAuCtioN sAle/suBAstA

all unredeemed items/articles pawned at aSPe SPeed PAWNSHOP, JR. Bichara Complex, San Antonio Poblacion, Calabanga, Camarines Sur, pawned from SePteMBeR 01-30, 2012 whose terms have expired will be sold to public auction sale on MARCH 1, 2013 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 NOON.

Redemption/Renewals of all pledges covered by the above-mentioned date will be honored until FeBRUaRy 25, 2013 only. tHe MaNageMeNtBiKOl RePORteRPublished: FeBRUaRy 3 and 10, 2013

NotiCe to tHe puBliCAuCtioN sAle/suBAstA

All unredeemed items/articles pawned at ROWENA ASPE PAWNSHOP, P. Burgos St., corner J. Hernandez Avenue, Naga City, pawned from SePteMBeR 01-30, 2012 whose terms have expired will be sold to public auction sale on MaRCH 1, 2013 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 NOON.

Redemption/Renewals of all pledges covered by the above-mentioned date will be honored until FeBRUaRy 25, 2013 only. tHe MaNageMeNtBiKOl RePORteRPublished: FeBRUaRy 3 and 10, 2013

NotiCe to tHe puBliCAuCtioN sAle/suBAstA

all unredeemed items/articles pawned at R. M. aSPe PAWNSHOP, Cor. Panganiban & Elias Angeles Street, Naga City, pawned from SePteMBeR 01-30, 2012 whose terms have expired will be sold to public auction sale on MaRCH 1, 2013 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 NOON.

Redemption/Renewals of all pledges covered by the above-mentioned date will be honored until FeBRUaRy 25, 2013 only. tHe MaNageMeNtBiKOl RePORteRPublished: FeBRUaRy 3 and 10, 2013

NotiCe to tHe puBliCAuCtioN sAle/suBAstA

all unredeemed items/articles pawned at e. BOy aSPe PAWNSHOP, Prieto Street, Filabel Arcade, Dinaga, Naga City, pawned from SePteMBeR 01-30, 2012 whose terms have expired will be sold to public auction sale on MaRCH 1, 2013 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 NOON.

Redemption/Renewals of all pledges covered by the above-mentioned date will be honored until FeBRUaRy 25, 2013 only. tHe MaNageMeNtBiKOl RePORteRPublished: FeBRUaRy 3 and 10, 2013

NotiCe to tHe puBliCAuCtioN sAle/suBAstA

all unredeemed items/articles pawned at aSPe SUPeR-PAWN PAWNSHOP Crown Jewel Holdings inc., Elias Angeles St., San Francisco, Naga City, pawned from SePteMBeR 01-30, 2012 whose terms have expired will be sold to public auc-tion sale on MARCH 1, 2013 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 NOON.

Redemption/Renewals of all pledges covered by the above-mentioned date will be honored until FeBRUaRy 25, 2013 only. tHe MaNageMeNtBiKOl RePORteRPublished: FeBRUaRy 3 and 10, 2013

NotiCe to tHe puBliCAuCtioN sAle/suBAstA

All unredeemed items/articles pawned at ASPE CROWN-JEWEL PAWNSHOP & JEWELRY STORE, Bichara Mall corner J. Hernandez & gen. luna Sts., Naga City, pawned from SePteMBeR 01-30, 2012 whose terms have expired will be sold to public auction sale on MARCH 1, 2013 from 9:00 a.M.-12:00 NOON.

Redemption/Renewals of all pledges covered by the above-mentioned date will be honored until FeBRUaRy 25, 2013 only. tHe MaNageMeNtBiKOl RePORteRPublished: FeBRUaRy 3 and 10, 2013

NotiCe to tHe puBliCAuCtioN sAle/suBAstA

say route and turned at Villa Caceres Hotel.

The 5-km run ended at the SM City grounds, the same place where the run started.

PRC Camarines Sur Chap-ter Administrator Nanette Rodrigazo expressed her ap-preciation to all those who supported the event.

“The number of partici-pants only show their over-whelming support to the programs and endeavors of the Philippine Red Cross. We were so happy with the atten-dance and we just want to ex-press our heartfelt gratitude for all of those who ran with us. Proceeds of the MVR will fund disaster risk reduction program and the blood ser-vices of the chapter,” Rodri-gazo said in an interview.

As a sign of its gratitude to the participants, members of the PRC Camarines Sur-Chapter Board of Directors headed by Chairman Pedrito Servano agreed to acknowl-edge the biggest delegation of runners by giving them a customized plaque of recog-nition.

First on the list was the Bi-col State College of Applied

5,000 JoiN red cross . . .Science and Technology (BISCAST) which registered 300 runners. Other delega-tions include the Holy Rosary Minor Seminary, Department of Agriculture (DA) regional office, Bureau of Fisher-ies and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of the Interior and Local Govern-ment (DILG), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Quipayo National High School, Ragay National Agriculture and Fisheries School (RNAFS), Depart-ment of Education (DepEd) Camarines Sur Division and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

The first 30 finishers re-ceived tokens from the PRC. The youngest runner is a 3-year-old girl who joined the run with her parents and her 7-year-old brother. The family is from Iriga City.

MVR2 is a nationwide activity which mobilized more than 1 million runners throughout the country, estab-lishing a record of the Philip-pines as the center of volun-teers who value humanitarian endeavors. -AnALizA S. MAcATAngAy

The business tax assess-ment was undertaken dur-ing the operations of Busi-ness One Stop Shop (BOSS) which entertained local tax-payers and businessmen from January 2 to 31, this year. An actual collection of P64, 161, 912.55 was obtained during the same period.

A total of 6,556 businesses in the city availed of BOSS services.

City Treasurer Helen T. Rosales said the effective tax campaign that the city gov-ernment is undertaking result-ed in the judicious delivery of economic and social services which include the implemen-tation of various projects that

Naga Boss yields p153m . . .enhanced the city’s business landscape.

One of these projects is the recently completed repair and rehabilitation works on the city’s drainage system, especially those in low-lying barangays.

Clarine P. Tobias, president of the Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) said the city’s in-creasing business tax turnout is an indication of the taxpay-ers’ trust and confidence in the city government which continuously undertakes ini-tiatives that help contribute in the achievement of rosy economy for the city. – www.naga.gov.ph

1st Class cadets during the theoretical ceremonies.

Lectures on Military Courtesy and discipline, field stripping of M16 rifles for MS-2 cadets, field stripping of Caliber .45 pistol for 2nd class cadets, small unit tactics

uNep rotc spearheads . . .for MS 2 Cadets and disaster relief and rescue operations for MS 2 cadets were shared to the participants.

Moraleda said that the an-nual celebration is a reminder that the university will con-tinue to nurture the value of discipline among the youth of today.

“The way we mold the youth, will definitely speak of what they would be in the future. Disciplined leaders are made. We are happy to be an instrument in the develop-ment of the youth for nation- building,” Moreleda said in an interview’, Moraleda said in closing.

Fixing campaign posters on trees with the use of nails or staple wires is prohibited under Section 23 of the reso-lution, Gonzales said.

Paragraph B of the same resolution also disallows dis-playing the same political par-aphernalia on roads, bridges, trees, power or telephone line posts, school premises and monuments.

Likewise, Section 11, Para-graph 6 of Resolution 7767 forbids the posting of election campaign propaganda outside common poster areas in pub-lic places designated by elec-tion authorities.

Gonzales said his office

‘operatioN Baklas’ targets . . .and all its field units based in provinces and cities of Bicol have already been coordinat-ing with the Comelec, Depart-ment of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and lo-cal government units (LGUs) towards the enforcement of the prohibitions to once and for all put an end to the prac-tice.

“The government has been campaigning hard to protect and preserve our environment by way of growing more trees and here come these politi-cians vying for elective pub-lic offices unmindful of the welfare of our trees. I appeal for concern from them by re-

specting the trees and abiding by the Comelec prohibitions,” he said.

Perhaps, voters in Bicol should also take note of candi-dates who own campaign ads fastened on trees and outside designated campaign areas in violation of laws and decide against them come election day, Gonzales added. (PNA)

Comelec reshuffles personnel in Bicol

BIKOL REPORTER

REgIOnAL ExPOnEnT FOR PROgRESS

outstaNdiNg local Newspaperfor five consecutive years by the st. peter

Baptist catholic mass media awards

8 feBruary 10-16, 2013

“This reshuffling scheme is a directive coming from the Comelec Central office and is being implement-ed all over the country,” Comelec Camarines Sur Spokesman Alex Marpuri said. “This will help us in holding honest and fair elections.”

Atty. Alberto T. Cañarte lll was designated the Pro-vincial Election Supervisor (PES) of Camarines Sur on February 8.

Cañarte, the PES of Masbate, will take the post of Atty. Noriel Badiola who is now assigned as Assis-tant Regional Director of the Comelec Regional Of-fice here in Bicol.

Marpuri also said that they are now in the process of scheduling candidate’s forum here in the province so that political aspirants can present their platforms

By aNaliza S. MaCataNgay

of government to voters. Dur-ing the forum, Comelec will also discuss provisions of the Fair Elections Act.

The Comelec has also formed a Speaker’s bureau for its voters education cam-paign. Comelec personnel will be assigned to each of the 5 districts of Camarines Sur to serve as focal persons.

The following Comelec personnel will man their re-spective areas of responsibil-ities: Election Officers Mitos Bustamante (Libmanan) for Districts 1 and 2, Alexander Marpuri (Calabanga); Evelyn Pelagio (Nabua) and Atty. Fatima O. Gados (Pili) for the 3rd District ; Alex R. Es-cape (Lagonoy) and Imelda C. Añonuevo (San Jose) for the 4th Distrcit and Jaime L. Pantorgo (Buhi), Nolito F. Manugo (Bato) and Atty. Ela Lozano (Iriga City) for the 5th District.

NAGA CITY – To ensure that it will remain neutral in the conduct of its duties, the Com-mission on Elections has reshuffled its officers in Bicol.

5,000 join ‘Red Cross’ Million volunteer Run2’ in CamSur

NAGA CITY -- More than 1,500 registered and not less than 4,000 non-registered runners joined the Million Volun-teer Run 2, sponsored by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and supported by government agencies and the private sector held

last February 10 here.The Red Cross Youth

Council of Quipayo National High School led thousands of runners in a warm-up exer-cise at SM City Naga grounds before the gun start at 6 a.m. Runners traversed the Pan-ganiban Drive and Magsay-

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