From Left to Right: Bing Gonzales of Mindanao Daily Mirror, Dennis Lazo of Bombo Radyo, Fiscal Emelio "Nonot" Dayanghirang III, Coach Huebert Paz, BAP-SBP Executive Director Patrick Gregorio, BAP-SBP Davao region chief Regino "Boy" Cua, Marianne Saberon-Abalayan of Sunstar Davao, Pastor Gary Visitacion of Philippine Challenge Ministry, Rico Jhone Biliran of MindaNews and Charles Maxey of Sunstar Davao.Friday, February 29, 2008
From Left to Right: Bing Gonzales of Mindanao Daily Mirror, Dennis Lazo of Bombo Radyo, Fiscal Emelio "Nonot" Dayanghirang III, Coach Huebert Paz, BAP-SBP Executive Director Patrick Gregorio, BAP-SBP Davao region chief Regino "Boy" Cua, Marianne Saberon-Abalayan of Sunstar Davao, Pastor Gary Visitacion of Philippine Challenge Ministry, Rico Jhone Biliran of MindaNews and Charles Maxey of Sunstar Davao.
SPORTS: PSC chief calls for unity in Davao sports
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)Chairman William "Butch" Ramirez has called on sports stakeholders inthis city to "unite and work with unity" in order to attain sustainable sports development program.
"This is for the better of sports in Davao City. We need to move andlook forward," Ramirez told sports journalists here following theawarding rites of the Edsa Unity Basketball Tournament Saturday night.
Ramirez, a former city sports coordinator, said he personally wants tohave a sustainable sports development program in Davao City that wouldplan and implement an integrated program of physical fitness andsports development for the city as well as sustain sports trainingactivities.
Davao City Sports Council, Inc. (DCSCI), which is composed of regionalchapters of the National Sports Association (NSA), the citygovernment, the private sector and other sports stakeholders, shouldwork hand in hand for Davao City's sports development program, hesaid.
"It's much better for us to work together to achieve our goal ofbetter sports program," said the former Ateneo de Davao Universityprofessor and chief mentor of the Blue Knights.
The national sports agency chief pointed out that the city governmentshould be the "hub of the wheel" of all the sports activities in thecity.
"By simply staging tournaments here and there is not a program. Weneed programs here, a sports development program, " he lamented.
Ramirez, the first Dabawenyo chief of the PSC, also reiterated theimportance of the creation of a sports commission that, according tohim, would give direction to the sports program of Davao City.
The formal creation of the Davao City Sports Commission (DCSC) throughan ordinance, however, had endured setback.
The envisioned DCSC, according to the proposed ordinance, will beacting as an umbrella body for all sports associations, organizationsand groups in the city, both from the public and private sectors.
The powers of the commission include to plan and implement anintegrated program of physical fitness and sports development for thecity as well as sustain sports training activities, particularly foroutstanding athletes and help the city government to identify, planand manage sports facilities required for the training of athletes andconduct of sports tournaments.
"It is the mandate of our office to help draft sports developmentprograms for the local government units and to have grassroots sportsprogram nationwide," said Ramirez.
He also said the opening of the PSC Mindanao satellite office herecould help achieve the common goal for Davao sports.
The PSC board has decided with board resolution to put up a Mindanaosatellite office to help augment the talent identification andgrassroots development program of the national sports agency.
It will also coordinate with various local government units theprograms of the PSC in Mindanao, which has 27 provinces and 33 citiesas well as the promotion of Philippine Sports Institute. (Rico Biliran/ MindaNews)
SPORTS: Palaro-bound DAVRAA delegation faces budgetary constraints
The Davao Region delegation bound forPalarong Pambansa in Puerto Princesa City in Palawan is facing"budgetary constraints, " reports said.
But Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA) officials are nowtaking measures and finding solutions to the financial woes, accordingto Dr. Fidel Japos, head of the Department of Education's (DepEd) TaskForce on School Sports.
"We are now taking measures for that (problem)," said Japos. "One ofthat is to trim down the number of the technical officials in thedelegation."
At the moment, Japos said, the DAVRAA delegation is composed of 484delegates, 85 of which are "technical officials" taking care of threecommittees -- kitchen, transportation and communication.
"We cannot cut the number of athletes and coaches," he said, noting that some of the technical officials may have to go.
Apart from the 85 technical officials, there are 339 athletes and 53coaches from the Davao Region delegation attending the nationalmulti-sport events for elementary and secondary students on April21-26.
He said they are also negotiating with airline companies for a cheapercharter flight to Palawan since "we have found out that traveling byboat is much more expensive."
Japos estimated that the DAVRAA participation would cost P8 to P10million, including transportation, food, supplies, uniforms andallowances.
Explaining where the funding would come from, Japos said the localgovernment division offices will provide P150,000 each and the centraloffice will give P4 million.
"The DepEd regional office will also give its counterpart, " he said.DepEd-XI has nine division offices, including the cities of Davao,Digos, Tagum, Panabo and Island Garden City of Samal and the provincesof Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur and CompostelaValley.
During his courtesy visit to DepEd-XI regional director SusannaTeressa Estigoy, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William"Butch" Ramirez has reportedly vowed "to provide help."
Ramirez said he will also hand out equipments that would be used for the training of the Davao Region athletes beginning on March 23 toApril 15 in the City of Mati in Davao Oriental.
"We will also send lecturers there to conduct leadership training andcoaches' education training," said Ramirez. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
But Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA) officials are nowtaking measures and finding solutions to the financial woes, accordingto Dr. Fidel Japos, head of the Department of Education's (DepEd) TaskForce on School Sports.
"We are now taking measures for that (problem)," said Japos. "One ofthat is to trim down the number of the technical officials in thedelegation."
At the moment, Japos said, the DAVRAA delegation is composed of 484delegates, 85 of which are "technical officials" taking care of threecommittees -- kitchen, transportation and communication.
"We cannot cut the number of athletes and coaches," he said, noting that some of the technical officials may have to go.
Apart from the 85 technical officials, there are 339 athletes and 53coaches from the Davao Region delegation attending the nationalmulti-sport events for elementary and secondary students on April21-26.
He said they are also negotiating with airline companies for a cheapercharter flight to Palawan since "we have found out that traveling byboat is much more expensive."
Japos estimated that the DAVRAA participation would cost P8 to P10million, including transportation, food, supplies, uniforms andallowances.
Explaining where the funding would come from, Japos said the localgovernment division offices will provide P150,000 each and the centraloffice will give P4 million.
"The DepEd regional office will also give its counterpart, " he said.DepEd-XI has nine division offices, including the cities of Davao,Digos, Tagum, Panabo and Island Garden City of Samal and the provincesof Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur and CompostelaValley.
During his courtesy visit to DepEd-XI regional director SusannaTeressa Estigoy, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William"Butch" Ramirez has reportedly vowed "to provide help."
Ramirez said he will also hand out equipments that would be used for the training of the Davao Region athletes beginning on March 23 toApril 15 in the City of Mati in Davao Oriental.
"We will also send lecturers there to conduct leadership training andcoaches' education training," said Ramirez. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
Reconstruction of Davao’s oldest bridge completed by early August
MindaNews photo by: BJ Patiñ0The reconstruction of the Gov. Generoso Bridge, the oldest span in this city, will be completed by early August this year, Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane assured President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during her visit here Wednesday.
Formerly known as the Bankerohan Bridge, the 58-year-old bridge along the Davao-Cotobato Road was badly damaged during the typhoon that battered Davao last year.
The President arrived here Wednesday to look into the status of ongoing government infrastructure projects in Region XI, including the Gov. Generoso Bridge, which is situated in the heart of the city’s bustling commercial district.
Ebdane, who accompanied the President in her inspection of public works projects here, said the DPWH will see to it that the contractor of the span will meet the August construction deadline.
The President also congratulated Ebdane for the P10 million the government saved from the implementation of the project.
The DPWH chief said that the original cost estimate of the 170.88-linear bridge project was P216 million but his department awarded the contract to the bidder who offered the lowest bid of P206 million, thus the P10 million savings.
The President, in a light-blue raincoat jacket, braved the slight shower to view the ongoing construction of the bridge. Ebdane informed her that Pier I of the bridge was already completed, and that the contractor has started the construction of Pier II.
The President expressed elation over the progress of the project which, when completed, will cut the travel time between the neighboring provinces of Davao and Cotabato.
Moreover, the bridge will improve traffic conditions on the Maa Road intersection along MacArthur Highway in Matina, all the way to Quirino Avenue on the other side of the Davao River, the DPWH said.The old Bankerohan span, which had a maximum load capacity of 45 tons, was built over five years from 1946 to 1950.
Notice to the public: From the 1987 Philippine Constitution
Article III - Bill of Rights SEC. 18.
(1) No person shall be detained solely by reason of his political beliefs and aspirations.
(2) No involuntary servitude in any from shall exist except as punishment for a crime whereof the party shall be duly convicted.
(1) No person shall be detained solely by reason of his political beliefs and aspirations.
(2) No involuntary servitude in any from shall exist except as punishment for a crime whereof the party shall be duly convicted.
Tell the Truth, Now, says AdDU community
Our country today is in a very deep political and moral crisis. We see its impact on the face of Jun Lozada, the reluctant star witness. He fears for his life and for his family’s safety, as he struggles to speak out what he knows about the NBN-ZTE deal.
This $329-million controversial deal apparently has a built-in $130 million kickback. This is very disturbing! Whoever has the key to the solution to this problem, speak! We want to know the truth! Whistleblower Lozada, of course, is not a saint. He himself confesses his previous wrongdoing. But his bold witnessing overcomes the tricks some authorities employ to avoid saying what they know and to prevent those who know from speaking out.
The greatest casualty here is the truth. So tell us the truth, now!For if all this is true, then it will confirm the grand scale corruption that the Philippine bishops have relentlessly been preaching against.
According to the Editorial of the official publication of the Philippine Bishops, “Graft and corruption in the government are so endemic and extensive that socio-political integrity in governance has seemingly become a moral impossibility to achieve during the remaining three-year tenure of the present national leadership” (CBCP Monitor June 25-Jul8 2007, p. A4).
This is a heavy statement. We would be hypocrite, however, if we blame only the government. At the moment, no social institution in Philippine society seems immune to corruption. So, like Lozada, the media must also say, “Mea culpa” for some distorted reporting.
Like Lozada, the Church must also admit its lack of transparency in its institutions, and should also say “Mea culpa”. Like Lozada, the private sector must stop bribery and not yield to extortion, and say, “Mea culpa”.
This collective admission of guilt is part of our communal cleansing. And this Lenten Season should be a good time to confess the sad truth of our participation in corruption!The Blessing of IntegrityThank God, there is another truth to be told.
The probinsyanong Intsik is not alone. There are many more whistleblowers who, in less sensational ways, live up to the demands of living a life of integrity. We witness the heroic citizenship of ordinary employees who continue, despite low salaries, to pour their energies into their public service. We know of judges who retire with peace of mind because they have held fast to their principles.
All this is also true! We bless the dynamic leaders who literally walk the streets in delivering basic services to their people. We affirm the achievements of conscientious individuals in the corporate world and the religious groups who combine professional competence with social conscience.
All this is must also be hailed for they are true! We celebrate, with both sacred rage and serene faith, the death of our contemporary martyrs who have sacrificed life, job, and family for the sake of justice.
They lived in the joy and consolation of the truth! Communal Action for TruthNow, in response to the call of Philippine bishops and various vigilant groups, the Ateneo de Davao University students, faculty, administration, staff, and other concerned citizens here in Davao City join together in “communal action,” to pray hard and work even harder for enlightenment, cleansing, and the courage to live by the “truth that sets us free.” (John 8:32).
We commit ourselves to continuous struggle---within our own selves, our families and institutions---to abhor lies and to uphold truth. At the same time, we challenge those who hold positions of public trust---please check and recheck your values.
We call on their relatives to interrogate the acts of their fathers or mothers or sons or daughters in positions of power. Do not be the cause of their downfall.We call on the students and alumni---you are the best contribution of schools to society.
Remember the values that your school stands for. Do not bring shame to your Alma Mater. We call on the religious communities and members of civil society. Support the authentic whistleblowers. Give them shelter. Help them discern.
Take care of their families. More importantly, don’t leave individual whistleblowers to carry the burden of shaking the conscience of society. Let’s transform our groups into prophetic communities and communal whistleblowers.
We call everyone to tell your stories of pain and anger, your dreams and energies. In homes and classrooms, talk about Filipinos who tell the truth. Tell children not to cheat their way to success. Teach them hard and honest work.
Tell them to respect the real value of words---and numbers. Remind them of the dignity of our people. We believe that the present crisis is not in our genes. Even our seemingly immovable social structure and incorrigible culture of corruption cannot be our eternal destiny.
If we dare to change, things will change. So let us change!What we now see as an apparent dead-end may yet turn out to be the threshold of a new creation. In the “darkness that covered the abyss” in the beginning of creation, God’s “mighty wind swept over the waters. God said, ‘Let there be light. And there was light’” (Genesis 1:2-3).
In the seemingly desperate situation our country is in today, let the mighty wind of God’s spirit move us. Let there be movement! And there shall be change!But first, give us no less than the truth, and the faith to face it---now!
(This is the statement of the Ateneo de Davao University community, read out last Feb 22, during our mass officiated by Fr. Antonio Samson, SJ, University President, and also read during the prayer rally held at the gate of ADDU after mass.The prayer rally was convened by Ehem! and ADDU, and joining us were various groups, including Pakisama, Bayan, Mindanao Commission on Women, Mincode, and other schools in the city)
This $329-million controversial deal apparently has a built-in $130 million kickback. This is very disturbing! Whoever has the key to the solution to this problem, speak! We want to know the truth! Whistleblower Lozada, of course, is not a saint. He himself confesses his previous wrongdoing. But his bold witnessing overcomes the tricks some authorities employ to avoid saying what they know and to prevent those who know from speaking out.
The greatest casualty here is the truth. So tell us the truth, now!For if all this is true, then it will confirm the grand scale corruption that the Philippine bishops have relentlessly been preaching against.
According to the Editorial of the official publication of the Philippine Bishops, “Graft and corruption in the government are so endemic and extensive that socio-political integrity in governance has seemingly become a moral impossibility to achieve during the remaining three-year tenure of the present national leadership” (CBCP Monitor June 25-Jul8 2007, p. A4).
This is a heavy statement. We would be hypocrite, however, if we blame only the government. At the moment, no social institution in Philippine society seems immune to corruption. So, like Lozada, the media must also say, “Mea culpa” for some distorted reporting.
Like Lozada, the Church must also admit its lack of transparency in its institutions, and should also say “Mea culpa”. Like Lozada, the private sector must stop bribery and not yield to extortion, and say, “Mea culpa”.
This collective admission of guilt is part of our communal cleansing. And this Lenten Season should be a good time to confess the sad truth of our participation in corruption!The Blessing of IntegrityThank God, there is another truth to be told.
The probinsyanong Intsik is not alone. There are many more whistleblowers who, in less sensational ways, live up to the demands of living a life of integrity. We witness the heroic citizenship of ordinary employees who continue, despite low salaries, to pour their energies into their public service. We know of judges who retire with peace of mind because they have held fast to their principles.
All this is also true! We bless the dynamic leaders who literally walk the streets in delivering basic services to their people. We affirm the achievements of conscientious individuals in the corporate world and the religious groups who combine professional competence with social conscience.
All this is must also be hailed for they are true! We celebrate, with both sacred rage and serene faith, the death of our contemporary martyrs who have sacrificed life, job, and family for the sake of justice.
They lived in the joy and consolation of the truth! Communal Action for TruthNow, in response to the call of Philippine bishops and various vigilant groups, the Ateneo de Davao University students, faculty, administration, staff, and other concerned citizens here in Davao City join together in “communal action,” to pray hard and work even harder for enlightenment, cleansing, and the courage to live by the “truth that sets us free.” (John 8:32).
We commit ourselves to continuous struggle---within our own selves, our families and institutions---to abhor lies and to uphold truth. At the same time, we challenge those who hold positions of public trust---please check and recheck your values.
We call on their relatives to interrogate the acts of their fathers or mothers or sons or daughters in positions of power. Do not be the cause of their downfall.We call on the students and alumni---you are the best contribution of schools to society.
Remember the values that your school stands for. Do not bring shame to your Alma Mater. We call on the religious communities and members of civil society. Support the authentic whistleblowers. Give them shelter. Help them discern.
Take care of their families. More importantly, don’t leave individual whistleblowers to carry the burden of shaking the conscience of society. Let’s transform our groups into prophetic communities and communal whistleblowers.
We call everyone to tell your stories of pain and anger, your dreams and energies. In homes and classrooms, talk about Filipinos who tell the truth. Tell children not to cheat their way to success. Teach them hard and honest work.
Tell them to respect the real value of words---and numbers. Remind them of the dignity of our people. We believe that the present crisis is not in our genes. Even our seemingly immovable social structure and incorrigible culture of corruption cannot be our eternal destiny.
If we dare to change, things will change. So let us change!What we now see as an apparent dead-end may yet turn out to be the threshold of a new creation. In the “darkness that covered the abyss” in the beginning of creation, God’s “mighty wind swept over the waters. God said, ‘Let there be light. And there was light’” (Genesis 1:2-3).
In the seemingly desperate situation our country is in today, let the mighty wind of God’s spirit move us. Let there be movement! And there shall be change!But first, give us no less than the truth, and the faith to face it---now!
(This is the statement of the Ateneo de Davao University community, read out last Feb 22, during our mass officiated by Fr. Antonio Samson, SJ, University President, and also read during the prayer rally held at the gate of ADDU after mass.The prayer rally was convened by Ehem! and ADDU, and joining us were various groups, including Pakisama, Bayan, Mindanao Commission on Women, Mincode, and other schools in the city)
Nograles urges nation to join CBCP in fight against corruption
House Speaker Prospero Nograles today urged the Filipino nation to join hands with the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) in its fight to weed out the culture of graft and corruption that has permeated in Philippine society.
The House Speaker said he welcomes the CBCP statement and stressed that this should motivate our people into joining the Church in its call for communal action to revive the Christian values that would help restore the dignity of each and every Filipino individual.
Nograles also said that this is now the time for the whole nation to unite and participate in the call of the Church to uproot graft and corruption from our political system pointing out that the House of Representatives under his leadership has jumpstarted the call for reforms with the formation of an oversight committee that has been tasked to draft the reform package in the Lower House that would yield greater accountability, transparency and the prudent utilization of government funds particularly the so-called development funds.
Nograles also urged the Filipino people to join the government in its fight to either eliminate or reduce the level of corruption in the public sector by remaining vigilant and conscious of their roles as citizens by participating more actively in the political process.
Citizenship bears some responsibility and primary among the duties of every Filipino is to help the government establish a society that would promote social justice, equal distribution of the country's wealth and resources, greater accountability and, integrity in public service, said Nograles.
The CBCP statement, he said, should provide both the Arroyo Administration and the Filipino people with the opportunity to come together and examine where our country now stands and where we want out nation to go from here.
We are all in the same boat and we cannot afford to see the country sink deeper in the abyss of poverty and political instability.
As such, we must all come together to ensure that our country remain afloat so that our vision of an economically stable Philippines may be fulfilled, Nograles explained.
The House Speaker said he welcomes the CBCP statement and stressed that this should motivate our people into joining the Church in its call for communal action to revive the Christian values that would help restore the dignity of each and every Filipino individual.
Nograles also said that this is now the time for the whole nation to unite and participate in the call of the Church to uproot graft and corruption from our political system pointing out that the House of Representatives under his leadership has jumpstarted the call for reforms with the formation of an oversight committee that has been tasked to draft the reform package in the Lower House that would yield greater accountability, transparency and the prudent utilization of government funds particularly the so-called development funds.
Nograles also urged the Filipino people to join the government in its fight to either eliminate or reduce the level of corruption in the public sector by remaining vigilant and conscious of their roles as citizens by participating more actively in the political process.
Citizenship bears some responsibility and primary among the duties of every Filipino is to help the government establish a society that would promote social justice, equal distribution of the country's wealth and resources, greater accountability and, integrity in public service, said Nograles.
The CBCP statement, he said, should provide both the Arroyo Administration and the Filipino people with the opportunity to come together and examine where our country now stands and where we want out nation to go from here.
We are all in the same boat and we cannot afford to see the country sink deeper in the abyss of poverty and political instability.
As such, we must all come together to ensure that our country remain afloat so that our vision of an economically stable Philippines may be fulfilled, Nograles explained.
Statement: Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines
Beloved People of God:
Greetings in the peace of the Lord!
Today in the midst of restlessness and confusion, we come to you as pastors, for that is our precise role. We do not come as politicians whose vocation it is to order society towards the common good. Our message contributes to the flourishing of a democracy which must not be built only on political formulae.
We face today a crisis of truth and the pervading cancer of corruption. We must seek the truth and we must restore integrity.
These are moral values needing spiritual and moral insights. Therefore, we address this pastoral statement to everyone particularly you our beloved people and in a special way to our political rulers and officials.
We are convinced that the search for truth in the midst of charges and allegations must be determined and relentless, and that the way to truth and integrity must be untrammeled, especially at the present time when questions about the moral ascendancy of the present government are being raised.
For this reason, we strongly:
1. Condemn the continuing culture of corruption from the top to the bottom of our social and political ladder;
2. Urge the President and all the branches of government to take the lead in combating corruption wherever it is found;
3. Recommend the abolition of EO 464 so that those who might have knowledge of any corruption in branches of government, may be free to testify before the appropriate investigating bodies;
4. Ask the President to allow her subordinates to reveal any corrupt acts, particularly about the ZTE-NBN deal, without being obstructed in their testimony no matter who is involved;
5. Appeal to our senators and the ombudsman to use their distinct and different powers of inquiry into alleged corruption cases not for their own interests but for the common good;
6. Call on media to be a positive resource of seeking the truth and combating corruption by objective reporting without bias and partiality, selective and tendentious reporting of facts;
For the long term we reiterate our call for “circles of discernment” at the grassroots level, in our parishes, Basic Ecclesial Communities, recognized lay organizations and movements, religious institutions, schools, seminaries and universities.
It is through internal conversion into the maturity of Christ through communal and prayerful discernment and action that the roots of corruption are discovered and destroyed.
We believe that such communal action will perpetuate at the grassroots level the spirit of People Power so brilliantly demonstrated to the world at EDSA I.
It is People Power with a difference. From the grassroots will come out a culture of truth and integrity we so deeply seek and build. We instruct our CBCP Commissions to take active role including networking for this purpose.
May the Lord bless us in this sacred undertaking to build a new kind of Philippines and may our Blessed Mother be our companion and guide in this journey to truth and integrity.
For and on behalf of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines:
Greetings in the peace of the Lord!
Today in the midst of restlessness and confusion, we come to you as pastors, for that is our precise role. We do not come as politicians whose vocation it is to order society towards the common good. Our message contributes to the flourishing of a democracy which must not be built only on political formulae.
We face today a crisis of truth and the pervading cancer of corruption. We must seek the truth and we must restore integrity.
These are moral values needing spiritual and moral insights. Therefore, we address this pastoral statement to everyone particularly you our beloved people and in a special way to our political rulers and officials.
We are convinced that the search for truth in the midst of charges and allegations must be determined and relentless, and that the way to truth and integrity must be untrammeled, especially at the present time when questions about the moral ascendancy of the present government are being raised.
For this reason, we strongly:
1. Condemn the continuing culture of corruption from the top to the bottom of our social and political ladder;
2. Urge the President and all the branches of government to take the lead in combating corruption wherever it is found;
3. Recommend the abolition of EO 464 so that those who might have knowledge of any corruption in branches of government, may be free to testify before the appropriate investigating bodies;
4. Ask the President to allow her subordinates to reveal any corrupt acts, particularly about the ZTE-NBN deal, without being obstructed in their testimony no matter who is involved;
5. Appeal to our senators and the ombudsman to use their distinct and different powers of inquiry into alleged corruption cases not for their own interests but for the common good;
6. Call on media to be a positive resource of seeking the truth and combating corruption by objective reporting without bias and partiality, selective and tendentious reporting of facts;
For the long term we reiterate our call for “circles of discernment” at the grassroots level, in our parishes, Basic Ecclesial Communities, recognized lay organizations and movements, religious institutions, schools, seminaries and universities.
It is through internal conversion into the maturity of Christ through communal and prayerful discernment and action that the roots of corruption are discovered and destroyed.
We believe that such communal action will perpetuate at the grassroots level the spirit of People Power so brilliantly demonstrated to the world at EDSA I.
It is People Power with a difference. From the grassroots will come out a culture of truth and integrity we so deeply seek and build. We instruct our CBCP Commissions to take active role including networking for this purpose.
May the Lord bless us in this sacred undertaking to build a new kind of Philippines and may our Blessed Mother be our companion and guide in this journey to truth and integrity.
For and on behalf of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines:
Suara Bangsamoro chide PNP for using “terrorist” hysteria against nationwide interfaith rally vs. GMA
The Suara Bangsamoro cannot anymore stomach the use of the Philippine National Police of the “terrorist” hysteria in a bid to make President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo look like a target of terrorist killing in the midst of a mammoth interfaith rally calling for her resignation.
“We condemn the PNP for using another Muslim as a fall guy to divert the public attention from the massive interfaith rally in Makati calling for President Arroyo’s resignation and ouster by staging a plot that another so-called Jeemayah Islamiya terrorist is out to kill the President,” said Amirah Ali Lidasan, national president of Mindanao-based group Suara.
Bangsamoro.Lidasan is afraid that another innocent Moro brother or sister will again be used as a pawn to make it look like there is a threat to the life of the President.
“The Moro people join the rest of the Filipino people in the nationwide interfaith rally because they cannot stomach anymore the list of human rights violations committed by the police and military because of the anti-Moro policies released during President Arroyo’s term,” said Lidasan.
Lidasan also lambast the PNP, saying that the people have become numb to their constant use of the “terrorist” hysteria, knowing full well that Police Director General Avelino Razon has a lot more to answer for the issues of abduction his men has done against NBN-ZTE star witness Jun Lozada.
Lidasan clarifies that the Moro people’s call for Arroyo’s ouster and resignation is part of the legitimate call of the Filipino people and should not be linked to any terrorist plot concocted by the PNP.
Lidasan said her group has joined various sectors in the interfaith rallies held in key cities in Mindanao and in Manila.(Press release by: Suara Bangsamoro)
“We condemn the PNP for using another Muslim as a fall guy to divert the public attention from the massive interfaith rally in Makati calling for President Arroyo’s resignation and ouster by staging a plot that another so-called Jeemayah Islamiya terrorist is out to kill the President,” said Amirah Ali Lidasan, national president of Mindanao-based group Suara.
Bangsamoro.Lidasan is afraid that another innocent Moro brother or sister will again be used as a pawn to make it look like there is a threat to the life of the President.
“The Moro people join the rest of the Filipino people in the nationwide interfaith rally because they cannot stomach anymore the list of human rights violations committed by the police and military because of the anti-Moro policies released during President Arroyo’s term,” said Lidasan.
Lidasan also lambast the PNP, saying that the people have become numb to their constant use of the “terrorist” hysteria, knowing full well that Police Director General Avelino Razon has a lot more to answer for the issues of abduction his men has done against NBN-ZTE star witness Jun Lozada.
Lidasan clarifies that the Moro people’s call for Arroyo’s ouster and resignation is part of the legitimate call of the Filipino people and should not be linked to any terrorist plot concocted by the PNP.
Lidasan said her group has joined various sectors in the interfaith rallies held in key cities in Mindanao and in Manila.(Press release by: Suara Bangsamoro)
RMC wins EDSA cagefest title
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/25 Feb) -- The Rizal Memorial College Bulldogs defeated Ateneo de Davao University Blue Knights, 102-96, to win the EDSA Basketball Tournament title Saturday night at the Davao City Recreation Center.
The Bulldogs leaned on their run-and-gun type of play to pull off the improbable title-clinching victory over the Blue Knights.
Hermann Dejito came out unstoppable, canning 32 big points for the Bulldogs who took a 73-68 lead going to the final period.
But it was Mohaledin Distancia who provided RMC's much needed lift, converting four straight points down the stretch to take a 92-84 advantage.
The high-flying Distancia split his free throw but superbly hauled the rebound for a put back plus a foul. He sank the bonus throw.
Kinny Rosil Isik and Ramfe Rodriguez added 18 and 11 points for RMC which took home the P10,000 cash prize personally awarded by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman William "Butch" Ramirez.
The Blue Knights threatened to take the lead as Richard Madelo, Jarius Guingguing and Paulo Sta. Ana conspired for a 6-0 run that cut the deficit to 4, 94-90.
But Dejito was quick to answer with a short jumper to give RMC some breathing room, 96-90, with less than a minute remaining.
The next play saw Madelo who topscored for Ateneo with 32 points missing on his three-point attempt. With the time not on their side, the Blue Knights were forced to foul to stop the time but the Bulldogs showed nerves of steel as they calmly sank their free throws that eventually sealed the victory.
RMC took a 25-23 lead after 10 minutes of play and both teams managed to trade baskets in the second period to tie the count at 43 at the half.
Agro Industrial Foundation Sailors clinched the third place honor in the two-day tournament sponsored by PSC and backed by City Mayor's Office-Sports Development Division and sanctioned by Samahang Basketbolista ng Pilipinas (BAP-SBP) regional director Regino " Boy" Cua. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
The Bulldogs leaned on their run-and-gun type of play to pull off the improbable title-clinching victory over the Blue Knights.
Hermann Dejito came out unstoppable, canning 32 big points for the Bulldogs who took a 73-68 lead going to the final period.
But it was Mohaledin Distancia who provided RMC's much needed lift, converting four straight points down the stretch to take a 92-84 advantage.
The high-flying Distancia split his free throw but superbly hauled the rebound for a put back plus a foul. He sank the bonus throw.
Kinny Rosil Isik and Ramfe Rodriguez added 18 and 11 points for RMC which took home the P10,000 cash prize personally awarded by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman William "Butch" Ramirez.
The Blue Knights threatened to take the lead as Richard Madelo, Jarius Guingguing and Paulo Sta. Ana conspired for a 6-0 run that cut the deficit to 4, 94-90.
But Dejito was quick to answer with a short jumper to give RMC some breathing room, 96-90, with less than a minute remaining.
The next play saw Madelo who topscored for Ateneo with 32 points missing on his three-point attempt. With the time not on their side, the Blue Knights were forced to foul to stop the time but the Bulldogs showed nerves of steel as they calmly sank their free throws that eventually sealed the victory.
RMC took a 25-23 lead after 10 minutes of play and both teams managed to trade baskets in the second period to tie the count at 43 at the half.
Agro Industrial Foundation Sailors clinched the third place honor in the two-day tournament sponsored by PSC and backed by City Mayor's Office-Sports Development Division and sanctioned by Samahang Basketbolista ng Pilipinas (BAP-SBP) regional director Regino " Boy" Cua. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
SPORTS: Powerhouse, UM, Holy Cross share DC-PRISAA athletics plum
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/25 Feb) -- Holy Cross of Davao College and University of Mindanao shared top honors following two days of backbreaking track battle at the close of this year's Davao City Private School Athletic Association (DC-PRISAA) athletics competition Sunday at the University of Mindanao track oval.
Holy Cross hauled 24 gold, 15 silver and 10 bronze medals to clinch the men's division title while UM reaped 32 of the 39 gold medals at stake along with five silvers and four bronzes to capture the women's crown.
Led by middle distance runner Philip Ocon who won six gold medals, Holy Cross topped the men's medal board with huge victories in medal-rich relay events over UM which placed second with 15-22-2 gold-silver-bronze performance.
Ocon, who won numerous gold medals in the previous national PRISAA competitions, pocketed the gold in his favorite 800 meters and 1,500 meters and led the Holy Cross relay team to golden performances in 4x200m, 4x400m, 4x800m and classical relay.
The BIMP-EAGA gold medallist crossed the finish line 2:13.56 to bag the gold in the coveted 800 meters.
His teammate Flor Guimagan settled for silver with 2:21.00 while University of Mindanao's Belierba Satumcacal took the bronze after clocking 2:30.01.
Long distance runner Joselito Dugos contributed two gold medals to the Toto Lacanaria-mentored Holy Cross gold medal production by topping the 5-kilometer and 10,000-meter run.
In the women's side, UM stamped its class, ruling all contests apart from throwing event that was dominated by Holy Cross which clinched the second spot with 7-21-1 gold-silver-bronze showing.
Jose Maria College ended its campaign at third place with three silvers and six bronze medals. Genebeth Cantila, a middle distance runner, took six gold medals and a silver across her name to lead UM's medal production.
Cantila, who settled with silver in the long jump, won the gold in the 800 meters and 1,500 meters and led the UM relay team to win the gold in 4x100, 4x200, 4x400 and 4x800 relay events.
Vivian Avergonzado chipped in three gold medals for UM which dominated all the events except throwing. Avergonzado, a national medallist, topped the 5-kilometer, 10-kilometer run and 3,000 meters.
Holy Cross ace thrower Johanna Mae Pacaldo, a Palarong Pambansa medallist, won the gold in shot put and discuss throw.
In men's basketball, University of Mindanao Wildcats won their four consecutive titles by beating Agro Industrial Foundation College, 89-79 Sunday at the UM Matina Gym.
Arnold Adormeo, Ryan Calimpong and Aldrin Blanco combined for 44 points to lead the charge for UM. Brokenshire College bested Rizal Memorial College (RMC), 104-97, to cop the third place plum. In the distaff side, UM clobbered RMC, 103-55, to capture the title. Brokenshire College placed third by beating San Pedro College, 61-58. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
Holy Cross hauled 24 gold, 15 silver and 10 bronze medals to clinch the men's division title while UM reaped 32 of the 39 gold medals at stake along with five silvers and four bronzes to capture the women's crown.
Led by middle distance runner Philip Ocon who won six gold medals, Holy Cross topped the men's medal board with huge victories in medal-rich relay events over UM which placed second with 15-22-2 gold-silver-bronze performance.
Ocon, who won numerous gold medals in the previous national PRISAA competitions, pocketed the gold in his favorite 800 meters and 1,500 meters and led the Holy Cross relay team to golden performances in 4x200m, 4x400m, 4x800m and classical relay.
The BIMP-EAGA gold medallist crossed the finish line 2:13.56 to bag the gold in the coveted 800 meters.
His teammate Flor Guimagan settled for silver with 2:21.00 while University of Mindanao's Belierba Satumcacal took the bronze after clocking 2:30.01.
Long distance runner Joselito Dugos contributed two gold medals to the Toto Lacanaria-mentored Holy Cross gold medal production by topping the 5-kilometer and 10,000-meter run.
In the women's side, UM stamped its class, ruling all contests apart from throwing event that was dominated by Holy Cross which clinched the second spot with 7-21-1 gold-silver-bronze showing.
Jose Maria College ended its campaign at third place with three silvers and six bronze medals. Genebeth Cantila, a middle distance runner, took six gold medals and a silver across her name to lead UM's medal production.
Cantila, who settled with silver in the long jump, won the gold in the 800 meters and 1,500 meters and led the UM relay team to win the gold in 4x100, 4x200, 4x400 and 4x800 relay events.
Vivian Avergonzado chipped in three gold medals for UM which dominated all the events except throwing. Avergonzado, a national medallist, topped the 5-kilometer, 10-kilometer run and 3,000 meters.
Holy Cross ace thrower Johanna Mae Pacaldo, a Palarong Pambansa medallist, won the gold in shot put and discuss throw.
In men's basketball, University of Mindanao Wildcats won their four consecutive titles by beating Agro Industrial Foundation College, 89-79 Sunday at the UM Matina Gym.
Arnold Adormeo, Ryan Calimpong and Aldrin Blanco combined for 44 points to lead the charge for UM. Brokenshire College bested Rizal Memorial College (RMC), 104-97, to cop the third place plum. In the distaff side, UM clobbered RMC, 103-55, to capture the title. Brokenshire College placed third by beating San Pedro College, 61-58. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
Monday, February 18, 2008
Mindanao's 'Sports for Peace' is back
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/7 Feb) -- The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) announced today the revival of the sports for peace program dubbed Mindanao Friendship Games (MFG) taking place simultaneous with the week-long celebration of the Mindanao Week of Peace.
The MFG, which has been dormant for half a decade, will be revived starting this year, commencing on Nov. 29 up to Dec. 5, according to Joseph Encabo, chief of staff of PSC Chairman William Ramirez.
Encabo said the "rebirth" of MFG will be held in Lanao del Norte following the provincial government’s acceptance to host anew the MFG. Lanao del Norte hosted the inauguration of the MFG in 2001.
"Gov. Khalid Dimaporo sent us a letter, confirming that the provincial government accepted the hosting of the revival of the MFG," Encabo told sports journalists during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum.
The MFG, which had sent a strong message of peace in the region in 2001, 2002 and 2003 was scrapped in the calendar of the national sports agency in 2004 due to funding shortage.
The multi-sports competition among the island’s local government units (LGU) was launched in Tubod, Lanao del Norte in 2001, a year after the "all-out war" against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) erupted in the municipality of Kauswagan in the same province.
The war eventually spread in some other parts of the island with MILF presence.The games were then held in Cagayan de Oro City in 2002 and finally in Mati, Davao Oriental the following year.
Kicking off the preparation, Encabo said sports coordinators from various LGUs across the island, with the collaboration of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, will meet next month to discuss the staging of the MFG.
Encabo said that recently, PSC obtained a financial help of P10 million from "one company in Manila," and half of which will be used for the MFG.
The other half was allocated for the grassroots sports program. Encabo did not name the company. "That's why Chairman Ramirez is very optimistic to revive the MFG because of the agreement (financial assistance) that will be signed last week of February, " he added.
Encabo estimates that P5 to 7 million is needed for the staging of the MFG.
Last December, Ramirez mentioned the revival of the MFG as part of the measures that would be taken to enhance the national sports agency's grassroots sports program.
He had said the PSC has allotted P50 million of its 2008 annual budget to fund grassroots development programs that includes the revival of Mindanao’s "Sports for Peace" program.
The national sports agency’s budget got an increase for 2008 after Ramirez, the former Ateneo de Davao professor, defended it in both chambers of Congress. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
The MFG, which has been dormant for half a decade, will be revived starting this year, commencing on Nov. 29 up to Dec. 5, according to Joseph Encabo, chief of staff of PSC Chairman William Ramirez.
Encabo said the "rebirth" of MFG will be held in Lanao del Norte following the provincial government’s acceptance to host anew the MFG. Lanao del Norte hosted the inauguration of the MFG in 2001.
"Gov. Khalid Dimaporo sent us a letter, confirming that the provincial government accepted the hosting of the revival of the MFG," Encabo told sports journalists during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum.
The MFG, which had sent a strong message of peace in the region in 2001, 2002 and 2003 was scrapped in the calendar of the national sports agency in 2004 due to funding shortage.
The multi-sports competition among the island’s local government units (LGU) was launched in Tubod, Lanao del Norte in 2001, a year after the "all-out war" against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) erupted in the municipality of Kauswagan in the same province.
The war eventually spread in some other parts of the island with MILF presence.The games were then held in Cagayan de Oro City in 2002 and finally in Mati, Davao Oriental the following year.
Kicking off the preparation, Encabo said sports coordinators from various LGUs across the island, with the collaboration of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, will meet next month to discuss the staging of the MFG.
Encabo said that recently, PSC obtained a financial help of P10 million from "one company in Manila," and half of which will be used for the MFG.
The other half was allocated for the grassroots sports program. Encabo did not name the company. "That's why Chairman Ramirez is very optimistic to revive the MFG because of the agreement (financial assistance) that will be signed last week of February, " he added.
Encabo estimates that P5 to 7 million is needed for the staging of the MFG.
Last December, Ramirez mentioned the revival of the MFG as part of the measures that would be taken to enhance the national sports agency's grassroots sports program.
He had said the PSC has allotted P50 million of its 2008 annual budget to fund grassroots development programs that includes the revival of Mindanao’s "Sports for Peace" program.
The national sports agency’s budget got an increase for 2008 after Ramirez, the former Ateneo de Davao professor, defended it in both chambers of Congress. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
PGMA cites importance of fight vs corruption in quest for peace and progress
Amid unfounded allegations of corruption hurled against certain officials of the Arroyo administration linked with the long-cancelled National Broadband Network (NBN) project, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo underscored today the need to rid the bureaucracy of corruption to attain peace and economic prosperity.
In her opening statement at the Procurement Transparency Group-National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-Cabinet Group meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room in Malacañang this morning, the President stressed that the government has put anti-corruption campaign at the fore of its agenda.
''It is empirical that we fight corruption so we can attain further economic growth, increase investments that would create more new jobs for the people,'' the President said in Filipino.
Thus, she added, the government allotted last year some P3 billion in its war against corruption, ''the largest amount spent for an anti-corruption campaign.
'The President said among the measures taken by the government to stamp out corruption included lifestyle check on people in government.''
Dozens of officials have either been discharged from service or are facing corruption charges in courts as a result of the lifestyle check waged by the present administration,'' she stressed.
The President also said she has created the Procurement Transparency Group (PTG) chaired by Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya Jr. to ''monitor and evaluate contracting of government projects.''
''The PTG, which we are meeting now, has been tasked to partner with business, academe, religious and civil society groups to be government's watchdogs,'' she said.
''To rid the system of corruption, the participation of the civil society through the PTG is important,'' the President stressed.
She likewise cited the important roles the Department of Justice and the Office of the Ombudsman play in the government's quest to rid the system of corruption and let truth and justice prevail.
Thus, the President said, the budget of the Office of the Ombudsman was doubled to allow it to hire more investigators and prosecutors.
'The number of cases won by the Sandiganbayan increased by 5 percent due to more prosecutors and investigators who are focused on graft and corruption cases,'' she said.
The President expressed hope that the Ombudsman would be fair in its investigation, “no leanings, no politics and no drama involved but fair and just decision...just the truth in accordance with due process, based on solid evidence, and respects the rights of the accused and the accuser.''
''This is the democratic process in resolving peacefully and truthfully issues and accusations,'' the President said.“If we could resolve corruption charges in the democratic process, then our country would be respected as a democracy. Let us respect the rule of law, the key to peace and prosperity,'' the President said. (http://www.gov.ph/news/)
Metro Manila is not the Philippines, says Mindanawon lawmaker
A Mindanao congressman today warned that they will secede from the Philippines and form an independent state if "the people of Metro Manila will continue dictating their will on the Filipino people."
Davao del Sur Rep. Marc Douglas Cagas said that many Mindanaoans are enraged by the "reckless misrepresentation of the people of Metro Manila" on the real sentiment of all Filipinos."
Many people in Mindanao are already anguishing on what's happening here in Metro Manila. We are already tired of being dictated upon by the people of Metro Manila. Metro Manila is not the entire Philippines," Cagas said.
Cagas warned that fresh moves to bring down the Arroyo administration and the constant political wrangling that is taking place in Metro Manila might force the people of Mindanao to assert their right to have an independent state.
"How can we achieve peace in this country when the people of Metro Manila is always in the warpath against the government? All these demonstrations, all these calls for President Arroyo to resign, all these anti-Arroyo investigations in the Senate are a distraction in our effort to bring progress in the countryside, particularly in Mindanao," Cagas said.
"We deplore all those Metro Manila-based personalities fomenting civil unrest under the guise of searching for the truth. This unholy alliance, which is claiming to speak for our people and our nation, does not have any inkling on or does not care to know what the people outside of Metro Manila really want and deserve to get from the government," Cagas said.
Cagas also deplored the so-called "arrogance of the noisy few" as he pointed out that those who have been calling for President Arroyo to resign "do not speak for the people Mindanao."
"All is quiet in most parts of the country because all that we want is to have more bridges, more school buildings, more paved roads, more scholarships, more post-harvest facilities, more jobs and more irrigation. We have no demonstrations in the countryside. We have better things to do than going in the streets shouting slogans and calling for the President to resign," Cagas said.
He added that the Senate investigation on the so-called ZTE scandal highlighted by the revelations of Rodolfo "Jun" Lozada is now focused on fanning public outrage to bring down President Arroyo but this do not have any effect on most people particularly those who are in the countryside.
"This is an arrogance of the noisy few. The should give it a rest and wait for the 2010 elections. Their so-called search for truth are actually motivated by their endless desire to grab power," he said."
They should stop pretending that they represent the will of all Filipinos because they don't. The desire of most Filipinos is to be spared from all these noise in Metro Manila so that the government can pump more funds to develop the countryside," Cagas said.
Earlier, Manila Rep. Tricia Bonoan-David warned that staging another People Power revolt and forcing President Arroyo to step down may lead to a "civil war" because many Filipinos still support her government.
Compostela Valley Rep. Manuel "Way Kurat" Zamora also said Mindanaoans would most likely secede from the government if the anti-Arroyo forces will have their way in bringing down her government. (Office of Rep. Marc Douglas Cagas of 1st district of Davao Del Sur)
PCID lauds SC Chief Puno for Court's "preferential option for the poor"
Chief Justice Reynato Puno yesterday said he would spearhead a workshop, tentatively scheduled for March, aimed at "leveling the playing field" and providing legal help to the poor, including farmers, fishermen and indigenous peoples, who were usually intimidated by the abstract court processes.
The Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy applauds this latest effort from the Chief Justice.
Coming on the heels of his valiant efforts to defend the victims of extra-judicial killings, the move to give "preferential option for the poor" in terms of justice certainly deserves acclaim from all sectors.
We are particularly happy with the focus given by the Chief Justice to those who are, for a long time now, at the margins of our society.
This, we believe, is essential to reclaiming the trust of the people in our justice system. The Moro nation is poorest of the poor, the most marginalized, and the most affected by armed conflicts. We hope that the Chief Justice will bear this in mind.
Poverty, exclusion and discrimination have long complicated the struggle of the Bangsamoro for self determination.This is a vital step towards changing the perception that justice in this country are only for the rich and privileged.
This is a significant stride in ensuring that we do not only have court of laws but court of justice as well.
We support this effort and hope that the proposed workshop will give all marginalized sectors a forum to address the injustice that they have long experienced. We gently remind the Chief Justice to ensure that Muslims, long victims of exclusion, discrimination and poverty, are properly represented in the workshop. (Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy)
The Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy applauds this latest effort from the Chief Justice.
Coming on the heels of his valiant efforts to defend the victims of extra-judicial killings, the move to give "preferential option for the poor" in terms of justice certainly deserves acclaim from all sectors.
We are particularly happy with the focus given by the Chief Justice to those who are, for a long time now, at the margins of our society.
This, we believe, is essential to reclaiming the trust of the people in our justice system. The Moro nation is poorest of the poor, the most marginalized, and the most affected by armed conflicts. We hope that the Chief Justice will bear this in mind.
Poverty, exclusion and discrimination have long complicated the struggle of the Bangsamoro for self determination.This is a vital step towards changing the perception that justice in this country are only for the rich and privileged.
This is a significant stride in ensuring that we do not only have court of laws but court of justice as well.
We support this effort and hope that the proposed workshop will give all marginalized sectors a forum to address the injustice that they have long experienced. We gently remind the Chief Justice to ensure that Muslims, long victims of exclusion, discrimination and poverty, are properly represented in the workshop. (Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy)
SPORTS: Samal cycling to push tourism industry
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/16 Feb.) -- The Island Garden City of Samal Tourism Council has lined up sporting events to help promote the city’s tourism industry including the staging of the Samal Festival Cycling Challenge which reels off on March 2.
The one-day bikefest with out and back course at the Kaputian Beach Park is one of the sporting highlights in this year’s weeklong celebration of Samal’s founding anniversary on March 1 to 7.
“We have sport events in our calendar of activities for the founding anniversary that could help us promote tourism in IGACOS,” said Cecil Ayuste, Samal Tourism Council president.
Despite limited budget due to Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) cuts, the Samal Cycling Challenge was included in the calendar as part of its efforts to make known the “inland and island tourist spots of Samal”, Ayuste said.
“We are forming Samal to be a tourist destination,” she said during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum at the Tower Inn Business Hotel.
The 50-kilometer Samal cycling challenge is likely to attract participants and sport enthusiasts from various places to visit the island garden city. The place is composed of 46 barangays including Camudmud, the site of fine beaches.
Salvador Paholio Jr., PhilCycling regional director, said riders from Metro Manila and Cebu have already signified their intention to join the cycling challenge which is expected to attract elite riders across Mindanao.
The cycling championship will feature road bike and mountain bike competitions. "The road bike will be an open event while the mountain bike will have the 23 years old and under and 35-above categories," Paholio said.
Cash prizes and a slot to the national training pool are up for grabs in the cycling race presented by IgaCoS Mayor Roger Antalan in cooperation with Karancho and Samahang Siklista Kooperatiba ng Dabaw. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)
The one-day bikefest with out and back course at the Kaputian Beach Park is one of the sporting highlights in this year’s weeklong celebration of Samal’s founding anniversary on March 1 to 7.
“We have sport events in our calendar of activities for the founding anniversary that could help us promote tourism in IGACOS,” said Cecil Ayuste, Samal Tourism Council president.
Despite limited budget due to Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) cuts, the Samal Cycling Challenge was included in the calendar as part of its efforts to make known the “inland and island tourist spots of Samal”, Ayuste said.
“We are forming Samal to be a tourist destination,” she said during the Davao Sportswriters Association Forum at the Tower Inn Business Hotel.
The 50-kilometer Samal cycling challenge is likely to attract participants and sport enthusiasts from various places to visit the island garden city. The place is composed of 46 barangays including Camudmud, the site of fine beaches.
Salvador Paholio Jr., PhilCycling regional director, said riders from Metro Manila and Cebu have already signified their intention to join the cycling challenge which is expected to attract elite riders across Mindanao.
The cycling championship will feature road bike and mountain bike competitions. "The road bike will be an open event while the mountain bike will have the 23 years old and under and 35-above categories," Paholio said.
Cash prizes and a slot to the national training pool are up for grabs in the cycling race presented by IgaCoS Mayor Roger Antalan in cooperation with Karancho and Samahang Siklista Kooperatiba ng Dabaw. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)
Davao Oriental LGU told --- “Listen to your peoples’ grievances”
A church group appealed to Davao Oriental’s provincial government to heed the evacuees’ plea to stop the military operations in certain militarized sitios and barangays in the municipalities of Baganga, Cateel and Boston .
The Promotion of Peoples’ Church Response (PCPR) encouraged the provincial government to listen to the victims’ sentiments. The PCPR, a group composed of church leaders and workers joined the evacuees and human rights violations victims from Cateel and Baganga in addressing the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao Oriental Province yesterday.
“We urge the LGU to listen to the grievances of their people. Instead of dismissing the peoples’ complaints, initiate prompt action within the LGU’s mandate and see how the government can work for the people,” said Reverend Jurie Jaime, acting secretary general of the PCPR.
Reverend Jaime noted concern over the military’s “tagging” of the victims and of the organizations that represent the victims.
“Peoples’ issues should not be buried with the labeling of people or organizations facilitating the victims’ complaints. The LGU should instead focus on the grievances expressed by the people, the victims. The problem is that the victims who profess their problems are considered nuisance and the LGU is constrained by their desire to cover-up the issue to save face,” Reverend Jaime said.
The PCPR will conduct prayer meetings and dialogues among other church leaders and members to gather more support for the evacuees who are seeking shelter in the grace of church support groups. (Press Release: Reverend Jurie Jaime Acting Secretary General Promotion of Peoples’ Church Response (PCPR)
The Promotion of Peoples’ Church Response (PCPR) encouraged the provincial government to listen to the victims’ sentiments. The PCPR, a group composed of church leaders and workers joined the evacuees and human rights violations victims from Cateel and Baganga in addressing the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Davao Oriental Province yesterday.
“We urge the LGU to listen to the grievances of their people. Instead of dismissing the peoples’ complaints, initiate prompt action within the LGU’s mandate and see how the government can work for the people,” said Reverend Jurie Jaime, acting secretary general of the PCPR.
Reverend Jaime noted concern over the military’s “tagging” of the victims and of the organizations that represent the victims.
“Peoples’ issues should not be buried with the labeling of people or organizations facilitating the victims’ complaints. The LGU should instead focus on the grievances expressed by the people, the victims. The problem is that the victims who profess their problems are considered nuisance and the LGU is constrained by their desire to cover-up the issue to save face,” Reverend Jaime said.
The PCPR will conduct prayer meetings and dialogues among other church leaders and members to gather more support for the evacuees who are seeking shelter in the grace of church support groups. (Press Release: Reverend Jurie Jaime Acting Secretary General Promotion of Peoples’ Church Response (PCPR)
Mindanao rallies call for ouster of US troops and GMA
Cagayan de Oro - Thousands of people in Mindanao marched in key cities to protest the opening of the US-RP Balikatan exercises and denounced the Arroyo government’s puppetry to US interests.
Cagayan de Oro became a central point of the Mindanao anti-Balikatan protest, as 5,000 people joined the Peoples’ March for Sovereignty, Peace and Justice including contingents from Zamboanga, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, and Caraga.
Bayan Muna Representative Satur Ocampo and Gabriela Women Party representative Liza Maza joined the march and later in the rally called for the unity of Mindanao people to oust the US troops and President Arroyo.
Moro, Lumad and Christian groups led by the US Troops Out Now! Mindanao and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) convened the caravan.Rallies in Cotabato City and Pikit, North Cotabato gathered around 10,000 people.
Davao City 3,000 protesters led a rally and a cultural program. In General Santos City, 500 protesters marched in the streets after negotiating with police to allow their rally to push through.
“Along with our call for the ouster of US troops, let us also call for the ouster of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for her puppetry to US interest,” said Ocampo, referring to the growing protest against Arroyo in Manila following the ZTE broadband exposé of Rodolfo Lozada.
Ocampo and Maza threw support to the resolution by some Mindanao congressmen to suspend the Balikatan, citing the February 4 incident in Sulu where US troops were alleged to be behind the killing of eight civilians in a military operation.
Amirah Ali Lidasan, vice president of Suara Bangsamoro, said the US troops have “turned the Moro people into live fire targets of their military exercises.” She cited various Moro civilians in Sulu and Basilan who have been killed or wounded during Balikatan war games.
She said US troops were found to be joining ground operations with the AFP, in clear violation of our national sovereignty.
Lidasan challenged local government officials in the ARMM to side with the people and oppose the Balikatan over the grave human rights abuses of the US military against the Moro people.
Lidasan also lashed against the so-called ‘humanitarian missions’, saying that “US troops give us aid with their right hand, but their left hand is brandishing firearms that kill us.”Groups such as the Sisters’ Association in Mindanao (Samin), Ranao Crescent Against Balikatan Exercises (Racabe) of Lanao del Sur, Kusog sa Katawhang Lumad sa Mindanao (Kalumaran), and Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao joined the rallies.
Samin executive secretary Sr. Elsa Compuesto, MSM, said that with the Visiting Forces Agreement, “the US perpetrates an unequal relation with the Philippines where we become dependent on their aid, while they secure resources for their own economic interests.”
Kalumaran and Racabe called for the unity of Lumads and Moro to defend their land against the entry of the American troops, which will pave the way for “development aggression.”Atty. Frederico Gapuz, chair of UPLM, a long-time anti-bases activist, shared a personal challenge to the protesters:
“I’ve been fighting US military intervention for fifty years. It’s been that long, but are we ready to ensure that in our lifetime we can drive them away?”
The protesters responded with a resounding yes.The march rally in Cagayan de Oro ended with the protesters burning the US flag and an effigy of Arroyo.
The peoples’ march was preceded by activities set by the Out Now! Mindanao coalition in various cities, including forums and rallies. In Marawi, protesters threw stones at US military vehicles in protest of their presence.(Press Release: Atty. Beverly MusniOut Now! convenor)
Cagayan de Oro became a central point of the Mindanao anti-Balikatan protest, as 5,000 people joined the Peoples’ March for Sovereignty, Peace and Justice including contingents from Zamboanga, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, and Caraga.
Bayan Muna Representative Satur Ocampo and Gabriela Women Party representative Liza Maza joined the march and later in the rally called for the unity of Mindanao people to oust the US troops and President Arroyo.
Moro, Lumad and Christian groups led by the US Troops Out Now! Mindanao and Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) convened the caravan.Rallies in Cotabato City and Pikit, North Cotabato gathered around 10,000 people.
Davao City 3,000 protesters led a rally and a cultural program. In General Santos City, 500 protesters marched in the streets after negotiating with police to allow their rally to push through.
“Along with our call for the ouster of US troops, let us also call for the ouster of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for her puppetry to US interest,” said Ocampo, referring to the growing protest against Arroyo in Manila following the ZTE broadband exposé of Rodolfo Lozada.
Ocampo and Maza threw support to the resolution by some Mindanao congressmen to suspend the Balikatan, citing the February 4 incident in Sulu where US troops were alleged to be behind the killing of eight civilians in a military operation.
Amirah Ali Lidasan, vice president of Suara Bangsamoro, said the US troops have “turned the Moro people into live fire targets of their military exercises.” She cited various Moro civilians in Sulu and Basilan who have been killed or wounded during Balikatan war games.
She said US troops were found to be joining ground operations with the AFP, in clear violation of our national sovereignty.
Lidasan challenged local government officials in the ARMM to side with the people and oppose the Balikatan over the grave human rights abuses of the US military against the Moro people.
Lidasan also lashed against the so-called ‘humanitarian missions’, saying that “US troops give us aid with their right hand, but their left hand is brandishing firearms that kill us.”Groups such as the Sisters’ Association in Mindanao (Samin), Ranao Crescent Against Balikatan Exercises (Racabe) of Lanao del Sur, Kusog sa Katawhang Lumad sa Mindanao (Kalumaran), and Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao joined the rallies.
Samin executive secretary Sr. Elsa Compuesto, MSM, said that with the Visiting Forces Agreement, “the US perpetrates an unequal relation with the Philippines where we become dependent on their aid, while they secure resources for their own economic interests.”
Kalumaran and Racabe called for the unity of Lumads and Moro to defend their land against the entry of the American troops, which will pave the way for “development aggression.”Atty. Frederico Gapuz, chair of UPLM, a long-time anti-bases activist, shared a personal challenge to the protesters:
“I’ve been fighting US military intervention for fifty years. It’s been that long, but are we ready to ensure that in our lifetime we can drive them away?”
The protesters responded with a resounding yes.The march rally in Cagayan de Oro ended with the protesters burning the US flag and an effigy of Arroyo.
The peoples’ march was preceded by activities set by the Out Now! Mindanao coalition in various cities, including forums and rallies. In Marawi, protesters threw stones at US military vehicles in protest of their presence.(Press Release: Atty. Beverly MusniOut Now! convenor)
SPORTS: Lanao Norte plans to turn over sports complex to PSC
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/12 Feb) – The provincial government of Lanao del Norte is planning to turn over its multi-million sports complex to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).
The local government unit’s plan on the sports complex within the Mindanao Civic Center (MCC) in the capital town of Tubod is intended to boost the province’s economy, according to Joseph Encabo, the chief of staff of PSC chairman William Ramirez.
Lanao del Norte’s economy relies mainly on agriculture and fishing. Tourism is also a growing economy, with the province’s coastal shorelines in the north and high plateaus and mountains in the south.
Encabo said the provincial government under Gov. Khalid Dimaporo had submitted a proposal to the national sports agency with regards to its desire to turn over the P50-million sports complex.
"When the Tubod sports complex will be managed by PSC, it will be very beneficial for athletes in Mindanao to get proper training closer to their homes,” he added.
MCC is an impressive 71-hectare integrated complex with a 5-hectare trade center, various sports facilities spread in 18 hectares, and there is still a 48-hectare open lot for the proposed 18-hole golf course, picnic park and sports academy.
“They would like to turn over the sports facilities because they want to maximize its use with more sports competitions to attract more people to visit the province,”
Encabo said.The proposal is for a 50-50 sharing in revenues between the LGU and the PSC. The latter’s share will be used for the maintenance of the sports facilities.
The MCC sports complex hosted the inauguration of the Mindanao Friendship Games (MFG), a sport for peace event for the various LGUs across the island in 2001.
It also hosted the Palarong Pambansa, a multi-sports event for the elementary and secondary students nationwide, the following year.
This year’s revival of the MFG, which became dormant for half a decade, will be held once more at the MCC on Nov. 29 to Dec. 5.
Should the planned turn over push through, the national sports agency is expected to open another Mindanao satellite office in Tubod.
The PSC’s first such office was opened here last week.Encabo also announced the plan of the provincial government to put up a sports academy wherein Mindanawon potential athletes get to train and study at the same time, thus making it the “training capital” of future national athletes from Mindanao.
“That concept is much better because the athletes would be kept away from various temptations in Manila that could imperil their training,” he said, adding that it would also mean less expense for the PSC because Mindanao athletes do not have to be brought to Manila anymore. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
The local government unit’s plan on the sports complex within the Mindanao Civic Center (MCC) in the capital town of Tubod is intended to boost the province’s economy, according to Joseph Encabo, the chief of staff of PSC chairman William Ramirez.
Lanao del Norte’s economy relies mainly on agriculture and fishing. Tourism is also a growing economy, with the province’s coastal shorelines in the north and high plateaus and mountains in the south.
Encabo said the provincial government under Gov. Khalid Dimaporo had submitted a proposal to the national sports agency with regards to its desire to turn over the P50-million sports complex.
"When the Tubod sports complex will be managed by PSC, it will be very beneficial for athletes in Mindanao to get proper training closer to their homes,” he added.
MCC is an impressive 71-hectare integrated complex with a 5-hectare trade center, various sports facilities spread in 18 hectares, and there is still a 48-hectare open lot for the proposed 18-hole golf course, picnic park and sports academy.
“They would like to turn over the sports facilities because they want to maximize its use with more sports competitions to attract more people to visit the province,”
Encabo said.The proposal is for a 50-50 sharing in revenues between the LGU and the PSC. The latter’s share will be used for the maintenance of the sports facilities.
The MCC sports complex hosted the inauguration of the Mindanao Friendship Games (MFG), a sport for peace event for the various LGUs across the island in 2001.
It also hosted the Palarong Pambansa, a multi-sports event for the elementary and secondary students nationwide, the following year.
This year’s revival of the MFG, which became dormant for half a decade, will be held once more at the MCC on Nov. 29 to Dec. 5.
Should the planned turn over push through, the national sports agency is expected to open another Mindanao satellite office in Tubod.
The PSC’s first such office was opened here last week.Encabo also announced the plan of the provincial government to put up a sports academy wherein Mindanawon potential athletes get to train and study at the same time, thus making it the “training capital” of future national athletes from Mindanao.
“That concept is much better because the athletes would be kept away from various temptations in Manila that could imperil their training,” he said, adding that it would also mean less expense for the PSC because Mindanao athletes do not have to be brought to Manila anymore. (Rico Biliran / MindaNews)
Notice to the public: From the 1987 Philippine Constitution
Article 3 "Bill of Rights" - Sec. 12
(1) Any person under investigation for the commission of an offense shall have the right to be informed of his right to remain silent and to have competent and independent counsel preferably of his own choice.
If the person cannot afford the services of counsel, he must be provided with one. These rights cannot be waived except in writing and in the presence of counsel.
(2) No torture, force, violence, threat, intimidation, or any other means which vitiate the free will shall be used against him. Secret detention places, solitary, incommunicado, or other similar forms of detention are prohibited.
(3) Any confession or admission obtained in violation of this or Section 17 hereof shall be inadmissible in evidence against him.
(4) The law shall provide for penal and civil sanctions for violations of this section as well as compensation to and rehabilitation of victims of torture or similar practices, and their families.
(1) Any person under investigation for the commission of an offense shall have the right to be informed of his right to remain silent and to have competent and independent counsel preferably of his own choice.
If the person cannot afford the services of counsel, he must be provided with one. These rights cannot be waived except in writing and in the presence of counsel.
(2) No torture, force, violence, threat, intimidation, or any other means which vitiate the free will shall be used against him. Secret detention places, solitary, incommunicado, or other similar forms of detention are prohibited.
(3) Any confession or admission obtained in violation of this or Section 17 hereof shall be inadmissible in evidence against him.
(4) The law shall provide for penal and civil sanctions for violations of this section as well as compensation to and rehabilitation of victims of torture or similar practices, and their families.
STATEMENT: Bobby M. Pagusara / MASIPAG Mindanao
We are expressing our utmost concern over the most recent plans of conducting another US-RP Balikatan Exercises in Mindanao.
Over the past years, we witnessed that these exercises affected most of all, small and resource poor farmers and their families.
It has also been a trend that in areas where US-RP Balikatan Exercises are held, there are huge interests in the establishment or expansion of various development aggression projects. In the Philippines and worldwide, the presence of US Troops is almost always equivalent to war.Mindanao hosts one of the richest biodiversity in the world.
Our island is a gigantic depository of fossil fuels and other mineral resources. Our lands are vast and fertile enough to support the food security of its people.
Mindanao catches the eyes of profit-hungry investors and the economies of industrialized countries dependent on foreign energy sources; top on the list is the US.
With the economic recession that US is experiencing, it cannot afford to spend for the expensive sending of forces in Asia just to conduct medical and dental sessions or train less capable forces of Asian countries with no larger interests.
Exercises of this sort aiming to produce well-trained Filipino soldiers insult the capacities of our own Armed Forces to resolve national threats to the state.
Who in the first place has enemies, but the US?Historically, the agreements that our government contracted with the United States were never impartial and ended up destroying the sovereignty of the Filipino people over their resources.
The 322 POs, 28 NGOs and 15 scientists under the network of MASIPAG-Mindanao convey our disagreement to the presence of the US Forces in our country.
We need genuine peace and security of farmers’ and Filipino people’s rights and not war. Balikatan are exercises to make war and not peace, hunger and not food security. Together with other sectors with sincere values for life, we say US Troops OUT NOW!
Over the past years, we witnessed that these exercises affected most of all, small and resource poor farmers and their families.
It has also been a trend that in areas where US-RP Balikatan Exercises are held, there are huge interests in the establishment or expansion of various development aggression projects. In the Philippines and worldwide, the presence of US Troops is almost always equivalent to war.Mindanao hosts one of the richest biodiversity in the world.
Our island is a gigantic depository of fossil fuels and other mineral resources. Our lands are vast and fertile enough to support the food security of its people.
Mindanao catches the eyes of profit-hungry investors and the economies of industrialized countries dependent on foreign energy sources; top on the list is the US.
With the economic recession that US is experiencing, it cannot afford to spend for the expensive sending of forces in Asia just to conduct medical and dental sessions or train less capable forces of Asian countries with no larger interests.
Exercises of this sort aiming to produce well-trained Filipino soldiers insult the capacities of our own Armed Forces to resolve national threats to the state.
Who in the first place has enemies, but the US?Historically, the agreements that our government contracted with the United States were never impartial and ended up destroying the sovereignty of the Filipino people over their resources.
The 322 POs, 28 NGOs and 15 scientists under the network of MASIPAG-Mindanao convey our disagreement to the presence of the US Forces in our country.
We need genuine peace and security of farmers’ and Filipino people’s rights and not war. Balikatan are exercises to make war and not peace, hunger and not food security. Together with other sectors with sincere values for life, we say US Troops OUT NOW!
Intimidation will not stop us from protesting against the Balikatan
The past two weeks, activities of Out Now Mindanao have been subject to military surveillance and intimidation in Marawi, Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon, showing the military's desperate attempt to suppress the people's protest against the Balikatan exercises.
The latest of these incidents is last night's harassment and dispersal of our volunteers who were posting anti-Balikatan posters in Osmeña Street by two military agents.
The volunteers were slapped in the head, pushed away, and dispersed by gunfire by these agents who appeared drunk.Agents were also spotted spying in our forums in Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon and Marawi with speaker Prof. Roland Simbulan, a noted anti-US bases activist from the Center for People Empowerment in Governance.
In the forum in Xavier University last February 7, an agent was spotted taking note of the participants and the program. A student saw this agent writing on his paper “wala man dinhi si Satur” (Rep. Ocampo is not here).
We are treating this as an indication of a threat on Rep. Ocampo, if not an insidious monitoring of his presence and activities. Another agent was seen in the forum taking pictures with his video phone in Valencia, Bukidnon on February 8.
When asked for his identification and invitation, this man quickly vanished.There was also the well publicized stunt by Major Benedicto Manquiquis who unashamedly disrupted a forum in Marawi State University by calling the forum a "communist activity" to brainwash and rouse the students to mount anti-government protests.
His unfounded and rude statement resulted to university officials and the students booing him away.With the growing protests of the people against the Balikatan execises and the Visiting Forces Agreement, the military has shown its desperation by resorting to these tactics.
Their moves have shown that they can not stand up to any debate on the merits and demerits of the VFA and Balikatan. They have clearly acted as mouthpieces for the US military.
These acts also betray the propaganda of the Philippine and US officials about the so-called good intentions of the humanitarian missions of Balikatan.
The military is using underhanded methods to repress our efforts to expose the real intent of the Balikatan exercises which is to establish a permanent basing of the US military in the Philippines to promote and protect US economic interest in Asia Pacific.
No act of desperation and repression from the military will deter the people’s patriotism. Our resistance will push on. We warn the US-Arroyo government against employing tricks to delay, disrupt, or suppress the Mindanao Peoples’ March and Caravan today and tomorrow. We shall fight for the national sovereignty until US intervention is ended in the Philippines.#(Press Release: ATTY. BEVERLY MUSNIConvenor, Out Now Mindanao)
The latest of these incidents is last night's harassment and dispersal of our volunteers who were posting anti-Balikatan posters in Osmeña Street by two military agents.
The volunteers were slapped in the head, pushed away, and dispersed by gunfire by these agents who appeared drunk.Agents were also spotted spying in our forums in Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon and Marawi with speaker Prof. Roland Simbulan, a noted anti-US bases activist from the Center for People Empowerment in Governance.
In the forum in Xavier University last February 7, an agent was spotted taking note of the participants and the program. A student saw this agent writing on his paper “wala man dinhi si Satur” (Rep. Ocampo is not here).
We are treating this as an indication of a threat on Rep. Ocampo, if not an insidious monitoring of his presence and activities. Another agent was seen in the forum taking pictures with his video phone in Valencia, Bukidnon on February 8.
When asked for his identification and invitation, this man quickly vanished.There was also the well publicized stunt by Major Benedicto Manquiquis who unashamedly disrupted a forum in Marawi State University by calling the forum a "communist activity" to brainwash and rouse the students to mount anti-government protests.
His unfounded and rude statement resulted to university officials and the students booing him away.With the growing protests of the people against the Balikatan execises and the Visiting Forces Agreement, the military has shown its desperation by resorting to these tactics.
Their moves have shown that they can not stand up to any debate on the merits and demerits of the VFA and Balikatan. They have clearly acted as mouthpieces for the US military.
These acts also betray the propaganda of the Philippine and US officials about the so-called good intentions of the humanitarian missions of Balikatan.
The military is using underhanded methods to repress our efforts to expose the real intent of the Balikatan exercises which is to establish a permanent basing of the US military in the Philippines to promote and protect US economic interest in Asia Pacific.
No act of desperation and repression from the military will deter the people’s patriotism. Our resistance will push on. We warn the US-Arroyo government against employing tricks to delay, disrupt, or suppress the Mindanao Peoples’ March and Caravan today and tomorrow. We shall fight for the national sovereignty until US intervention is ended in the Philippines.#(Press Release: ATTY. BEVERLY MUSNIConvenor, Out Now Mindanao)
SPORTS: Horse Club's new prexy vows to undertake "civic actions"
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/16 Feb.) – Newly-installed Davao Horse Club president Jose Salvador “Pete” T. Batu has vowed to undertake “civic actions” on his term as the chief of the pioneering horse sport organization in Southern Mindanao.
Batu, 65, succeeded Francis R. Ledesma at the helm of the Club.
An erstwhile big biker and founding president of On Any Sunday Riders Club, the DHC chief pointed out that his leadership would engage in civic programs like “medical mission and operation “tuli” (circumcision).He added they would go to far-flung areas that can be reached by their horses to carry out environmental preservation programs.
“We will maximize our resources to achieve these programs, “ Batu told sports journalists during the Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum.
To ensure the success of his term as president, Batu has enlisted the full support of all the Club’s past presidents by appointing them as officers.
They are Bong Ledesma, Sally and Benedicto Lim, Jr., George W. Misa, Andrew Tan and Jeric Olaguer. Add to this list of officers Tito Sorongon, Chelo Tan, Luchie Olaguer, Albert and Carol Angel and Dean Gonzales. Likewise, he has appointed the following as directors: Mike Dizon, Vic Noble, James Velasco, Marlon Mabanag and Danny Barlis. Last month, the new officers were sworn into office by Councilor Danny Dayanghirang representing Mayor Rodrigo Duterte at Marina Park Stables, home of the DHC. Dayanghirang is a horse rider himself in his hometown in Davao Oriental.
The big switch from riding the iron horse to the real horse for the new president happened eight years ago when he was invited to join a trail ride by members of the then-emerging group of horse enthusiasts.
According to the businessman and bon vivant himself, the change was rather quick. The trail ride rekindled his cowboy days in General Santos where he spent his younger years.
Batu has proven himself as still the able rider and horseman, leading the pack in the toughest of trail rides and gamely competing in the Royal Category of the annual horse competition circuit of the Philippine Horsemen’s Federation.
“I love the Davao Horse Club,” Batu proudly declared, adding that apart from getting a different high from galloping on a horse, the Club is truly a family-oriented organization.
The love for the sport and the club has brought him and practically his whole family into the sport – from his wife Esperanza (Neneng) to his children and grandchildren.
Though his wife does not ride, she is known to support her husband totally in club activities while his son Petejun, daughter Melody and son-in-law Dean Gonzales have become active members.
Grandchildren Mikko, Alyssa and Nikki Boy are now also competing in horse shows. The family maintains a stable of Arabian and half Arabian horses. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)
Batu, 65, succeeded Francis R. Ledesma at the helm of the Club.
An erstwhile big biker and founding president of On Any Sunday Riders Club, the DHC chief pointed out that his leadership would engage in civic programs like “medical mission and operation “tuli” (circumcision).He added they would go to far-flung areas that can be reached by their horses to carry out environmental preservation programs.
“We will maximize our resources to achieve these programs, “ Batu told sports journalists during the Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum.
To ensure the success of his term as president, Batu has enlisted the full support of all the Club’s past presidents by appointing them as officers.
They are Bong Ledesma, Sally and Benedicto Lim, Jr., George W. Misa, Andrew Tan and Jeric Olaguer. Add to this list of officers Tito Sorongon, Chelo Tan, Luchie Olaguer, Albert and Carol Angel and Dean Gonzales. Likewise, he has appointed the following as directors: Mike Dizon, Vic Noble, James Velasco, Marlon Mabanag and Danny Barlis. Last month, the new officers were sworn into office by Councilor Danny Dayanghirang representing Mayor Rodrigo Duterte at Marina Park Stables, home of the DHC. Dayanghirang is a horse rider himself in his hometown in Davao Oriental.
The big switch from riding the iron horse to the real horse for the new president happened eight years ago when he was invited to join a trail ride by members of the then-emerging group of horse enthusiasts.
According to the businessman and bon vivant himself, the change was rather quick. The trail ride rekindled his cowboy days in General Santos where he spent his younger years.
Batu has proven himself as still the able rider and horseman, leading the pack in the toughest of trail rides and gamely competing in the Royal Category of the annual horse competition circuit of the Philippine Horsemen’s Federation.
“I love the Davao Horse Club,” Batu proudly declared, adding that apart from getting a different high from galloping on a horse, the Club is truly a family-oriented organization.
The love for the sport and the club has brought him and practically his whole family into the sport – from his wife Esperanza (Neneng) to his children and grandchildren.
Though his wife does not ride, she is known to support her husband totally in club activities while his son Petejun, daughter Melody and son-in-law Dean Gonzales have become active members.
Grandchildren Mikko, Alyssa and Nikki Boy are now also competing in horse shows. The family maintains a stable of Arabian and half Arabian horses. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)
SPORTS: PSC puts Mindanao satellite office in Davao
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/Feb. 9) – The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has set up here its first Mindanao satellite office amid robust moves to strengthen its grassroots development program in the island.
Joseph Encabo, chief of staff of PSC chair William Ramirez, said the Mindanao satellite office is the first extension administrative center of the national sports agency.
Its primary job is to help augment the talent identification and grassroots development program of the PSC, the country's highest sports body.
It will also coordinate with various local government units the programs of the PSC in Mindanao which has 27 provinces and 33 cities as well as the promotion of Philippine Sports Institute, Encabo said.
The PSC official said they chose Davao City for its first satellite office in Mindanao because of its "easy access to information.”
"The Davao office can communicate easily to other regions in (Southwestern) Mindanao and Caraga for instance, "he said"And, this is aside from the fact that Davao City is the center of economic mobility and growth in Mindanao," he added.
The PSC has allotted P50 million of its 2008 annual budget to fund grassroots development programs in the countryside that aim to strengthen its search for new talents as future members of the national team.
The PSC is also planning to put up "another office" in Lanao del Norte (Northern Mindanao) and also in Zamboanga City (Western Mindanao) to cater to the Zamboanga Peninsula area and Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
"This (Mindanao satellite office) was also established for the revival of the Mindanao Friendship Games (MFG), the Mindanao's sports for peace program, later this year," Encabo said.
The revival of MFG which has been dormant for half a decade, will be held in Lanao del Norte on Nov. 29 to Dec. 5.
The MFG, which had sent a strong message of peace in the region in 2001, 2002 and 2003, was scrapped from the calendar of the national sports agency in 2004 due to funding shortage.
The multi-sports competition among the island's local government units was launched in Tubod, Lanao del Norte in 2001, a year after the "all-out war" against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) erupted in Kauswagan town of the same province.
The war eventually spread to other parts of the island with MILF presence.
The games were then held in Cagayan de Oro City in 2002 and finally in Mati, Davao Oriental the following year.Aside from Mindanao's sports for peace, the PSC will also revive the Philippine National Games and boost the Palarong Pambansa (National Games), a multi-sports competition for elementary and high school students. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)
Joseph Encabo, chief of staff of PSC chair William Ramirez, said the Mindanao satellite office is the first extension administrative center of the national sports agency.
Its primary job is to help augment the talent identification and grassroots development program of the PSC, the country's highest sports body.
It will also coordinate with various local government units the programs of the PSC in Mindanao which has 27 provinces and 33 cities as well as the promotion of Philippine Sports Institute, Encabo said.
The PSC official said they chose Davao City for its first satellite office in Mindanao because of its "easy access to information.”
"The Davao office can communicate easily to other regions in (Southwestern) Mindanao and Caraga for instance, "he said"And, this is aside from the fact that Davao City is the center of economic mobility and growth in Mindanao," he added.
The PSC has allotted P50 million of its 2008 annual budget to fund grassroots development programs in the countryside that aim to strengthen its search for new talents as future members of the national team.
The PSC is also planning to put up "another office" in Lanao del Norte (Northern Mindanao) and also in Zamboanga City (Western Mindanao) to cater to the Zamboanga Peninsula area and Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
"This (Mindanao satellite office) was also established for the revival of the Mindanao Friendship Games (MFG), the Mindanao's sports for peace program, later this year," Encabo said.
The revival of MFG which has been dormant for half a decade, will be held in Lanao del Norte on Nov. 29 to Dec. 5.
The MFG, which had sent a strong message of peace in the region in 2001, 2002 and 2003, was scrapped from the calendar of the national sports agency in 2004 due to funding shortage.
The multi-sports competition among the island's local government units was launched in Tubod, Lanao del Norte in 2001, a year after the "all-out war" against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) erupted in Kauswagan town of the same province.
The war eventually spread to other parts of the island with MILF presence.
The games were then held in Cagayan de Oro City in 2002 and finally in Mati, Davao Oriental the following year.Aside from Mindanao's sports for peace, the PSC will also revive the Philippine National Games and boost the Palarong Pambansa (National Games), a multi-sports competition for elementary and high school students. (Rico Biliran/MindaNews)
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