Bacolod City News February 2012 (2024)

PNP creates Task Force Estaniel

• Source: http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/February/29/topstory9.htm
• Wednesday, February 29, 2012

By ADRIAN NEMES III

The Bacolod City police formed “Task Force Estaniel” yesterday to work on the murder of spouses Lorna who was shot dead in October last year and Teodoro Estaniel who was killed on Tuesday night.

City Police Director Senior Supt. Ricardo de la Paz said the task force will be headed by Special Operations Group head, Supt. Santiago Rapiz, and composed Insp. Homer Vargas of the Investigation Branch; Supt. Leonardo Borromeo of the Intelligence branch; Station 7 commander Chief Insp. Levy Pangue; and Station 8 chief, Senior Insp. Jerrick Filosofo.

Teodoro Estaniel, 50, of Purok Seawall in Brgy. Punta Taytay, Bacolod and caretaker of the residence of a Filipino Overseas Worker in Purok RC Dos, Pahanocoy, died on the spot from a lone gunshot wound on his chest at his workplace in Purok RC 2, Barangay Pahanocoy at about 8 p.m. Tuesday.

The decomposing body of his wife, Lorna Estaniel, a faith healer, was found in a sugarcane field in Purok Oya, Brgy. Vista Alegre four days after she was declared missing.

De la Paz said they are pursuing the angle of a “love triangle” behind the killing of the couple although he did not elaborate. He said the suspects in the death of Teodoro are different from those who killed his wife.

De la Paz added that they will ask for the help of the National Bureau of Investigation to make the facial sketch of the suspects in the killing of Teodoro because a witness has claimed that he saw two men on a motorcycle near the scene of the incident before the killing happened.

The police will also check on Teodoro’s cellular phone as he was allegedly receiving threats through text messages.*APN

DOLE extends P17.7M for livelihood projects in Western Visayas

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=408941
• February 28, 2012, 9:39 pm

By (PNA)

LAP/AJP/CMGarde/vlo

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 28 (PNA) - Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Director Ponciano Ligutom announced that beneficiaries in Western Visayas have been granted with a total of P17.757 million for the implementation of their various livelihood projects for the year 2012.

Ligutom said here Tuesday in the press briefing that Negros Occidental has the biggest allotment in the amount of P6,121,000.00 for the 875 targeted beneficiaries as compared to its previous year's P5,748,000.00 allocation given to about 1, 638 total beneficiaries.

Iloilo follows with P5,771,000.00 for the total 810 beneficiaries. Last year, there was only P5,771,000.00 allocation to 950 beneficiaries; Capiz with P1,986,000.00 for the 298 beneficiaries as compared to last year’s P1,504,000.00 for the total 318 beneficiaries.

Aklan, Antique and Guimaras with P1,293,000.00 each for the total 199 beneficiaries. Last year, the allocation for each province was only P746,000.00 for the total 156 beneficiaries.

The livelihood program of the department is year-round, Ligutom added, saying its thrust is intended for employment and business promotions and implementing programs for students.

DOLE on Monday released about P800,000.00 grants for beneficiaries in two localities in La Castellana town, at Barangays Biaknabato and Cabacungan.

More than P400,000.00 was released to the beneficiaries in Biak na Bato with more than P300,000.00 for Cabacungan for cattle fattening, chicken, and quail and duck raising.

Also, talented and deserving students can avail of scholarship grants of the department but that they have to first secure the requirements from Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in their localities. DOLE has earmarked P8 million this year for the purpose.

Bacolod BIR exceeds collection by 17.93%

• Source: http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/February/27/businessnews3.htm
• Monday, February 27, 2012

By visayandailystar.com

The Bureau of Internal Revenue, Revenue Region 12, Bacolod City exceeded its tax collection goal by P4,300,509.90 last month, up by 17.93 percent from the P420,352,309.29 collection of the same month last year.

Revenue Director Perfecto Aranas said they collected P495,725,509.90 last month, which is 0.88 percent higher than their goal.

He said they need to double their efforts in collecting taxes as the national goal collection for 2012 has been increased to P1.066 trillion, and the goal for RR12 has also been raised to P6,147,388,000 billion.

The collection is not only dependent on the enforcement of tax laws but it must also come from the voluntary compliance by taxpayers, Aranas said.

The BIR is conducting dialogs and seminars on tax payments, tax mapping campaigns and operations, Oplan Kandado, and heightening the Run After Tax Evaders program, he also said.

He added that taxpayers know the consequences when they are subjected to the Oplan Kandado and the RATE programs. BIR also takes initiatives on doing surveillance operations and verifying business establishments and individual taxpayers who are understating their income by more than 30 percent, he added.

Aranas also reminded all taxpayers of the deadline for the filing of 2011 income tax on April 15. He also appealed to all taxpayers to declare their taxes correctly to avoid sanctions and penalties.

Meanwhile, the revenue collection for the other four revenue district offices under RR12 for January were RD76-Victorias (P55,140,136.70), RD77-Bacolod City (P283,502,151.13), RD78-Binalbagan (P44,408,128.23), and RD79-Dumaguete City (P112,675,093.84).*LTG

Governors meet for Visayan Sea protection

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R06&article=1031330148820
• Sunday 26th of February 2012

By Easter Anne D. Doza

BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occ., Feb. 26 (PIA) -- Governors of Visayan provinces have met in order to establish ways to protect the Visayan Sea.

Governors Gwendolyn F. Garcia of Cebu, Rizalina S. Lanete of Masbate, Arthur D. Defensor, Sr. of Iloilo and Alfredo G. Marañon, Jr. of Negros Occidental met again to present their respective accomplishments toward the sustainable management and conservation of the Visayan Sea.

According to a report from the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO) the governors converged, February 17 at Hotel del Rio in Iloilo City for the Fourth Governors’ Meeting on the Visayan Sea Protection and Coastal Law Enforcement which was also attended by Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Director Asis Perez and environmental advocate and lawyer Atty. Antonio Oposa.

Perez reported that their campaign on the banning of Danish Seine (“hulbot-hulbot”) is gaining grounds among the resource-users of the Visayan Sea, the PEMO release added.

Perez also vowed to assign to Negros Occidental two unsinkable patrol boats for the conduct of sea-borne patrols in the northern waters of the province.

Other technical and financial supports are well underway for Negros Occidental to facilitate the successful implementation of plans and programs for the Visayan Sea.

The Provincial Government of Negros Occidental has acquired a 40-knot patrol boat that will be assigned to the Northern Negros Aquatic Resources Management Advisory Council (NNARMAC).

NNARMAC is the alliance of eight coastal local government units (LGU) in the northern tip of the province, five (Victorias City, Mun. of Manapla, Cadiz City, Sagay City & Escalante City) of which abuts the Visayan Sea. One million mangroves of various species will be grown within these areas, as part of the commitment of Negros Occidental.

This project will be implemented through the financial assistance of P5million from the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.Marañon further reported that several capacity building initiatives have been implemented in the province including a seminar on the New Rules of Court on Environmental Cases which was participated in by Judges, Prosecutors, clerks of courts, LGU Legal Officers and volunteer lawyers who called themselves Dampig sang Kapalibutan – Negros (DKN).

Marañon revealed he will soon deputize Bantay Dagat volunteers coming from the various LGU alliances who will compliment LGU-based fishery officers and DENROs.

Municipal Fishery Ordinances of these LGUs are now being harmonized and updated to include provisions on climate change adaptation and mitigation, river system management and disaster risk management.

“Greed is the culprit in the destruction of the Visayan Sea,” Marañon said as he renewed his commitment to the other governors in pursuing progressive and innovative measures to conserve the Visayan Sea. (JSC/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

Boracay-Bacolod flights to start March 16

• Source: http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/February/25/businessnews2.htm
• Saturday, February 25, 2012

By www.visayandailystar.com

Bacolod Chapter president John Orola of SKAL International yesterday said the SKY Pasada program was launched yesterday in Bacolod City to bring in tourists from Boracay for leisure tours or sentimental journey, and pilgrimages guide.

SKY Pasada, the lone carrier that serviced Baguio City last year, will launch flights from Boracay to Bacolod on March 19, he said.

Orola, a former congressman of Bacolod and a Philippine attaché to Japan, said they hope to create new tour products for Negros Occidental and Bacolod City and introduce these places to travel agencies in the city and abroad. They will also meet with tour operators and tourist guides associations, he said.

He said, this is being endorsed by Bacolod Bishop Vicente Navarra and Fr. Felix Pasquin, rector of the San Sebastian Cathedral. He added thatthey want people to come to the city, not only during the MassKara Festival or Panaad Festival, but also during religious fiestas.

They also want to promote the shrines in Bacolod like the Parish of Our Lady of Fatima in Lopez Jaena-Sta. Ana streets and the Pope John Paul II Tower at the Reclamation Area, he added.*CGS

Iggy’s remains set to arrive next week in NegOcc

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=408053
• February 24, 2012, 8:40 pm

By (PNA)

FFC/AJP/CMG/vlo

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 24 (PNA) - After minor debacles on the custody of the remains of the late 5th District Congressman Ignacio “Iggy” T. Arroyo of Negros Occidental, it's finally set to arrive in Negros Occidental for viewing of his constituents and friends.

Arroyo's remains will arrive Tuesday if plans for the repatriation of his body from London will be carried out Friday and directly brought to his house in La Vista.

His remains will stay there until Sunday, according to Atty. Maria Soledad Mawis, who is representing Iggy’s daughters, Bianca and Bernardina Arroyo-Tantoco, from his first wife Marilyn Jacinto.

After two days, Arroyo's remains will be transferred to Aleli’s house just in front of the Arroyo’s ancestral house in Quezon City.

On Tuesday morning, his remains will be the brought to the House of Representatives and in the afternoon will be flown to Negros Occidental. The wake is expected to be in the 5th District.

The remains will stay until Thursday in Negros Occidental and will be flown Friday at his house in La Vista in preparation for burial at the North Cemetery in Manila Saturday besides his mother.

City holds Ash Wednesday mass

• Source: http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/February/23/topstory11.htm
• Thursday, February 23, 2012

By visayandailystar.com

An Ash Wednesday mass was held at the Bacolod City Government Center lobby yesterday attended by about 300 city government employees led by Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia and his wife, Elsa, a press release from City Hall said.

Fr. Jude Serfino, Secretary of the Bishop’s House in Bacolod City, delivered a homily on three basic aspects of penance: praying, fasting and abstinence. These three practices of penance are basic to forgiveness and being forgiven that leads to the transformation of the individual, he said.

Executive Assistant II to the City Mayor, Vic Ramos, said that if the city can sponsor more similar activities and even novenas to our Lady of Perpetual Help, for instance, it could help to keep city employees faithful to their jobs as public servants, the press release said.

Sandra Sycip, City Population Office Program Officer 1, said “The Ash Wednesday Mass is a call for the transformation in the values we live by and the message of the celebration is to first forgive, so that the individual can also be forgiven.”

First Friday masses are held at the lobby of the Government Center on regular basis, and Friday masses are regularly held at the prayer room of the center.*

Mayor extends assistance to tornado victims

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=407478
• February 22, 2012, 5:31 pm

By (PNA)

LAP/AJP/CMGarde/vlo

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 22 (PNA) – Kabankalan City Mayor Isidro P. Zayco immediately ordered concerned local government agencies to extend assistance to victims of the whirlwind that hit the hinterland barangay of Bantayan in the city Monday afternoon.

The mayor's office received report that about 21 families were affected and one person was injured in the incident. He went to the area on Tuesday to see what his office could do to assist the families who were affected.

The tornado damaged some houses which are made of light materials.

Zayco instructed Bantayan village chief Oscar Abajon to conduct an assessment and make an official report as to the total extent of damages.

Vice Governor Genaro Alvarez, who is a resident of Kabankalan City, also visited the affected families to assess the needs of the residents.

NBI has new head in Negros Occidental

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=407031
• February 21, 2012, 4:48 pm

By (PNA)

FFC/LAM/AJP/CMG/vlo

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 21 (PNA) -- The new chief of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Negros Occidental was formally installed in a simple turn-over ceremony here Monday.

Lawyer Ferdinand Lavin took over the NBI-Bacolod chief post from Atty. Jose Hermie Monsanto.

Lavin is sternly warning unscrupulous individuals who pose as agents or drop the name of the agency for their personal interest.

Lavin assured that the NBI office in Bacolod will be open to the media but, however, asked for some consideration and confidentiality on sensitive cases the agency is investigating.

Lavin was formerly assigned at the NBI central office.

His priority is the improvement of the clearance system in the NBI office noting that it takes at least two days for applicants to get their clearances instead of just one day.

He said he will improve the structure of the NBI building and make it comfortable and air-conditioned for clients waiting to get their clearances.

Lavin also urged the public to report fixers preying on applicants for clearances.

He said he will augment the present NBI force here and stop tapping the services of confidential agents.

Bacolod SP secretary dismissed

• Source: http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/February/20/topstory2.htm
• Monday, February 20, 2012

By CHRYSEE SAMILLANO

Dismissal from service, cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, and perpetual disqualification for reemployment in the government service were the penalties meted to the Secretary of the Sangguniang Panlungsod in Bacolod City by the Office of the Vice Mayor for the administrative case filed against him by Councilor Caesar Distrito.

Vice Mayor Jude Thaddeus Sayson, the SP disciplining authority, in his decision dated February 16, 2011, found Nilo Alejandrino liable for grave misconduct, abuse of authority, conduct unbecoming and unprofessional conduct, based on the complaint of Distrito.

Sayson based his decision on the report and recommendation dated Feb. 15, 2012 submitted by the Investigating Committee composed of Councilors Dindo Ramos, Homer Bais and Roberto Rojas.

Alejandrino could not be reached for his comment as of press time.

Sayson said an order was served to the parties of the case to submit position papers within five days, and Alejandrino was granted the extension he had requested, yet he still failed to submit his answer, and this was considered as a waiver on his part.

Sayson noted that there was abuse of authority and misconduct when Alejandrino altered, erased and changed the name of City Legal Officer Joselito Bayatan to “casual employee” in the notices of hearings of Distrito, chairman of the SP Committee on Laws, Ordinances and Good Government.

Sayson said City Ordinance 107, series of 1993 does not give Alejandrino the prerogative to change or alter the notices of hearings, which is beyond his functions since he is only allowed the ministerial duty of sending notices to the people or officers who are invited.

He also said that when Alejandrino changed and altered the names in the notices of hearings for the reason that he was taking revenge against Bayatan, he encroached upon the duties and prerogatives of Distrito and exceeded his functions.

Sayson said Alejandrino is liable for grave misconduct, abuse of authority, conduct unbecoming and unprofessional conduct when he shouted at and humiliated Distrito and telling the latter that he can do whatever he wants, even changing the names in the notices, and that he is not afraid of anybody.

He said Alejandrino is also liable when he mocked the physical disability of Distrito by saying “Kay Man Gapabulag-bulag ka mo! (because you are playing blind)”, and that was not a flimsy excuse when he argued that he was only referring to the act of Distrito, and not to his disability.

Sayson said he also considered the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons which prohibits any person from shouting or using insulting words imputing to the disability of a person. Alejandrino, being a lawyer himself, should be the first to be expected to observe and respect the rights of any individual, including the complainant, he said.

The decision also discussed the action of Alejandrino when he threw a chair at Distrito, an act he later denied. It said that the testimonies of the witnesses presented by the complainant are heavier than the denial and the lone testimony of Alejandrino’s witness, who was not present during the incident.

It also stated that Alejandrino’s denial is not supported by substantial and convincing evidences, which made it negative and self-serving evidence and deserves no weight in law, and cannot be given greater evidentiary value over the testimony of credible witnesses who testify on affirmative matters.

The decision also approved and adopted the report and recommendations of the Investigating Committee and mentioned that an administrative case for tardiness, absences and falsified entries in Alejandrino’s Daily Time Record was filed against him on July 26, 2007 and he was admonished by the Disciplining Authority.

Bais said Alejandrino can still appeal the decision with the Civil Service Commission.*CGS

Philippine doctors without borders

• Source: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/26243/philippine-doctors-without-borders
• 1:31 am | Sunday, February 19th, 2012

By Baikong Mamid

Philippine Daily Inquirer

Sans her doctor’s white coat, Dr. Natasha Reyes of Bacolod City stands up to her conviction of providing lifesaving care to the world’s most neglected people.“One thing I gave up is the usual image of my profession—that the idea of being a doctor is wearing a white, clean coat; everyone is calling you ‘doc’; you have your own clinic, a secretary and you play golf,” says 35-year-old Natasha, a doctor with the international medical humanitarian organization Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).Also known as Doctors Without Borders, MSF is present in more than 70 countries, mostly those affected by armed conflict, epidemics or natural disasters.Natasha, called Tasha by friends, is a psychology graduate of University of the Philippines (UP), and completed her medical studies in the University of Sto. Tomas (UST) in 2000. She specialized in emergency medicine, which she describes as “a little bit of everything—a bit of surgery, a bit of pediatrics, a bit of internal medicine.”She says she initially joined MSF in 2007 out of curiosity. But it has turned out to be a career and a fervent passion. So far, she has completed missions in India, Kenya, South Sudan and Colombia. She has braved conditions in some of the world’s most dangerous places—Libya, Afghanistan, Pakistan. She was back in the Philippines in 2009 to lend a hand in the aftermath of devastating Tropical Storm “Ondoy.” And the list goes on.“I feel instant gratification when I see patients improve in a short duration of time. I like seeing immediate results,” she says.On the emergency nature of the work, she adds: “I like the action. I like the rush. I also like to think that wherever I am sent, I can do something for the patient.”The road less traveledEven as a little girl, Tasha dreamed of becoming a doctor. She was eight when her family moved to Metro Manila, which allowed her a choice of some of the country’s best medical schools and hospitals. After graduation from UP and UST, she completed her four-year training at Makati Medical Center in 2006.She was at a crossroad when she received word that her application to work as a doctor in Australia had been approved. This was about the same time she was invited to join MSF.“Everyone I knew was sending their applications to work in Australia or other countries. So, I had applied too. However, I also really wanted to work with MSF. I knew about the organization a long time ago. In my early teens, I read about its mental health activities in Russia. I was also aware that they were in Samar in the late ’90s, and also present in Manila. Their principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence really appealed to me. It was always at the back of my mind that someday I would work with MSF in the Philippines.”“When I was ready to join MSF, they had already left the country. But I met a colleague who had just finished his deployment with MSF in Kashmir. He encouraged me to try working with MSF outside the Philippines.”Weighing her options, Tasha chose the road less traveled.A lifelong commitment“Many people I know think that (emergency humanitarian work) is something individuals do only in their 20s then they eventually settle down, nurture a family and live a very comfortable life. Sometimes when I go home, people would ask me if I am staying home for good or if am I going to get a ‘real job.’”But she adds that her family and close friends are very supportive of her decisions.When post-election violence erupted in Kenya in 2008, Tasha was there working in a primary health care clinic for displaced residents.“As a medical doctor, I really saw what MSF can do to help people who are in great need to survive. We were treating patients, providing tents and hygiene kits for tens of thousands of people affected by the violence. Being new to MSF, I realized that we can make a big difference because we are part of an organization that has the medical expertise honed by its years of experience in responding to bigger-scale humanitarian emergencies.”A sincere smile and seeing her patients survive given their limited access to facilities keep her feet on the ground and connect her to the reality of what each drop of her sweat is worth.In the very remote town of Pibor, South Sudan, she dealt with a woman who delivered a premature baby girl. The baby was 28 weeks and only weighed 900 grams. The baby was so small, Tasha could carry the baby with one hand.“I was with a very experienced Kenyan midwife. But we had no incubator, and there was no neonatal intensive care unit in the whole of South Sudan. We didn’t have facilities to help her survive. But the baby was coming out and we had to manage regardless of her small chances of survival.“We were so surprised to hear the baby give her first cry—she was fighting to live. We wrapped her in a survival blanket and put her in a vaccine box to keep her warm … After 48 hours, the baby started to suck. It was a team effort … Later, we named her Laila after the daughter of the famous ring fighter Muhammad Ali.”The life I want“This is the life that I want. My mom always fears for my safety but she always tells me to pray to God to place me where He wants me to be. So even when I am in Colombia’s rebel-held jungles or stabilizing a war-wounded patient in Afghanistan, I feel safe because I am meant to be there and to help those who don’t have access to health care.”MSF is an international medical humanitarian aid organization founded by doctors and journalists in 1971. MSF won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1999. To learn more about MSF activities and how to work with them as a medical or nonmedical practitioner, visit www.msf.org.hk.

Public cemetery used for pot sessions

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/local-news/2012/02/18/public-cemetery-used-pot-sessions-206807
• Saturday, February 18, 2012

By Merlinda A. Pedrosa

THE Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) chief ordered Friday the Station 4 commander and the City Anti-Illegal Drug Special Operations Task Group (CAIDSOTG) to monitor the Bacolod Public Cemetery after it was reported that the area is allegedly used as hideout of drug users.

Upon receiving the report Friday, Senior Superintendent Ricardo De la Paz, BCPO director, immediately ordered Station 4 commander Ulysses Ortiz and CAIDSOTG head Jomarie Occeño to verify the report and to determine if the alleged drug users in the cemetery are minors or gangs.

He said the public cemetery was allegedly used as pot session area of unidentified persons, despite the presence of a caretaker.

De la Paz also reminded the station commanders to intensify their campaign against illegal drugs within their areas of responsibility.

Lawmaker told not to duplicate city’s mandate

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/local-news/2012/02/17/lawmaker-told-not-duplicate-city-s-mandate-206631
• Friday, February 17, 2012

By Carla N. Canet

THE Bacolod City Council recently passed a resolution urging Bacolod Representative Anthony Golez to observe ruling regarding disaster preparedness as being under the City Government’s mandate.

The resolution authored by Councilor Homer Bais is in relation to earlier statements of Golez that he would use the proceeds of Jam Step to put up a disaster preparedness center in Bacolod City.

Jam Step, an exercise-based dance organized primarily by Golez, was staged last Sunday at the old Bacolod airport. The activity gathered a reportedly world record-breaking crowd of 87,700 people who danced for 30 minutes to promote healthy and active lifestyle.

However, Bais questioned the purpose of the said activity, which allegedly used the school children to advance the interest of the congressman who planned to put up a disaster preparedness center at the expense of the students.

Bais said the pronouncement of Golez that the proceeds of the event will go to the construction of the Bacolod Disaster Preparedness Center and the production of disaster kits and survival manuals to be distributed to the people of Bacolod is a duplication of the city’s mandate on local disaster preparedness program pursuant to the Republic Act (RA) No. 10121, DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2010-143, and Executive Order No. 888, Series of 2010.

In his resolution, Bais cited RA 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, which was enacted to strengthen the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction System or the strengthening of local government capacities on disaster risk reduction management through decentralized power, responsibilities and resources.

He also mentioned Executive Order No. 888, Series of 2010 which adopts the strategic National Action plan on Disaster Risk Reduction for calendar years 2009-2019, and the enhancement of the capacities of Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils.

Bais added that M.C. No. 2010-143 enjoins local authorities to implement the mandates of the law, as within the purview of the delegated general supervisory authority of the President.

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/local-news/2012/02/16/bacolod-ready-school-construction-p48m-share-206419
• Thursday, February 16, 2012

By Carla N. Canet

THE City Government of Bacolod is ready with its P24 million counterpart for the construction of the P48-million ETCS 4 elementary school building in a three-hectare property of the city at the Reclamation Area.

The project will be a 50-50 joint venture between the City Government and the Department of Education (DepEd). The memorandum of agreement for said project was recently signed in Manila.

Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia and project engineer Allan Agbones announced Wednesday that the city has already allocated P24 million as its counterpart for the project.

Leonardia added that DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro committed to give a counterpart of P24 million but only P12 million will be released and utilized this year.

The bidding process will be started at the soonest time possible so that construction of the three-story school building with 48 classrooms can commence in the second or third quarter of this year, said the mayor.

"We hope to finish this school building as soon as possible so that it can serve the school children of Bacolod City. Education is a priority of my administration. Thus, we are working on the establishment of the ETCS 4 for our children," he said.

The facade of the school building will be a replica of the Bacolod Government Center. It will have 24 classrooms on the main building and an additional of 12 classrooms each side, making it a 48 classroom ETC 4 building.

"This is a 50-50 share of the city and DepEd. We are the first city in the country that has this partnership with DepEd," he said.

Meanwhile, Leonardia said that with the construction of the ETCS 4, some illegal settlers in the area will be dislocated.

They were already given the necessary notice regarding the plan of the city. The mayor hoped that they will vacate at the soonest time possible.

"I appeal to them to cooperate with the city because this is an urgent project of the government. We will find ways and means that this project will be started soon," he said.

Leonardia also volunteered to Luistro to make the ETCS 4 part of the experimentation of the K + 12 program of the education department.

Police, Army donate blood on Valentine's Day

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/local-news/2012/02/15/police-army-donate-blood-valentines-day-206218
• Wednesday, February 15, 2012

By Merlinda A. Pedrosa

MEMBERS of Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) and Philippine Army joined Tuesday the Valentine's bloodletting activity of Aksyon Radyo at Lopues East, Barangay Villamonte, Bacolod City.

BCPO director Ricardo De la Paz said they support the bloodletting activity to help people who are in need of blood donations.

De la Paz said he ordered the different station commanders to join in said activity to donate their blood.

"Through this, we help those who need our help in terms of blood donation," he said, adding that it is one way to help those who are in critical situation in order to support their life.

He added that it is a noble activity to donate blood during Valentine's Day celebration.

Hundreds of personnel from the BCPO, Philippine Army, Regional Training School, Public Safety Company, BCPO Press Corps and some agencies joined the bloodletting activity at Lopues East.

BCPO Press Corps president Eric Magbanua, Aksyon Radyo anchorman/reporter, said they are thankful for the support of police personnel, military, Provincial Health Office and some agencies who helped and donated their blood for those who are in need.

Bacolod police on heightened alert for Valentine’s Day

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/local-news/2012/02/14/bacolod-police-heightened-alert-valentine-s-day-206007
• Tuesday, February 14, 2012

By Published in the Sun.Star Bacolod newspaper

THE Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) is on heightened alert Tuesday to enhance police visibility in different areas of Bacolod for the Valentine’s Day celebration.

BCPO Director Ricardo De la Paz ordered Monday the station commanders to enhance police visibility in different restaurants, motels and hotels which are usually visited by lovers during Valentine’s Day.

Station commanders were directed to coordinate with the management of different businessmen establishments to secure the safety of public while the couples and lovers observe the Valentine’s Day celebration.

He said they will monitor the possible operation of the lawless elements who will take opportunity of said celebration.

The city director also advised the lovers to be vigilant and be security conscious while roaming in different areas of Bacolod to avoid snatching, theft and hold-up incidents.

De la Paz said they will also monitor the Bredco Port, Reclamation Area which was recently identified as ‘lover’s lane’ to avoid any untoward incidents in the area.

On the other hand, BCPO is also on heightened alert to secure the safety of Vice President Jejomar Binay, who will attend the mass wedding Tuesday at the New Government Center. (MAP)

Thousands join city clean up drive

• Source: http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/February/13/topstory8.htm
• Monday, February 13, 2012

By www.visayandailystar.com

More than a thousand volunteers who included city and barangay officials, teachers and students of public schools and the Bacolod City College, and members of civic clubs cleaned major city streets surrounding the downtown area, Bacolod public plaza and the BREDCO and SM area Saturday, a press release from City Hall said.

Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia said he is very happy that the Clean and Green Task Force, led by overall chairperson Myrna Servando of the Lions’ Club and Councilors Em Ang, Sonya Verdeflor and Mona Dia Jardin, have once again mobilized successfully the volunteers who did the menial tasks with dignity and enthusiasm.

Equipped with simple tools and implements, the volunteers picked up litter, swept sidewalks, weeded and trimmed grasses and shrubs, scraped posters, and tore down illegally strung streamers, the press release said.

Some groups, painted the gutters with white paint.

“The clean-up drive is good for our city because it is supportive of our tourism and call centers, the main drivers of our local economy,” Leonardia said. “No doubt, a cleaner and greener environment, coupled with safety and orderliness, will attract more tourists, visitors and investors to our city.”

Vice Mayor Jude Thaddeus Sayson led the cadres of volunteers consisting city and barangay officials and employees as well as members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

Sayson, with Servando, Ang, Verdeflor and Jardin said they are hopeful that as the Bacoleños feel the value of cleaner surroundings, they will do their share towards maintaining it.

They also hope that Bacolod residents will soon start cleaning their own surroundings and handle their wastes and garbage properly.

Sayson said “The city officials and employees are all ready to make more sacrifices because their efforts will not go to waste. I know that businesses, organizations and institutions will soon start to respond positively to the requests of the Clean and Green Task Force for cooperation and support.”

Servando said she is quite satisfied with the enthusiastic response of city and barangay officials and employees to the call of the mayor for a cleaner and greener City of Smiles.*

87,700 join bid for new world record in dance exercise

• Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/144385/87700-join-bid-for-new-world-record-in-dance-exercise
• 9:41 pm | Sunday, February 12th, 2012

By Carla P. Gomez

Inquirer Visayas

BACOLOD CITY—At least 87,700 students braved the rain at the old Bacolod airport on Sunday morning to exercise in a bid to create a new world record.The students performed a 30-minute “Jam Step” aerobic-dance exercise on the 1.8-kilometer stretch of the old airport runway about 8:30 a.m. for the record-breaking Jam Step 2-12-12.The simple aerobic dance was choreographed by the pep squad of the De La Salle University-Bacolod City.The students were also entertained by event host Epy Quizon, former beauty queen Daisy Reyes and actor Danilo Barrios who added star power to the event.Jeepney and bus drivers numbering 1,300 joined their children and grandchildren in dancing to Nicki Minaj’s Super Bass for 30 minutes.Organizers hoped to break the world record on the most number of people who gathered for a dance exercise.The number exceeded the 47,000 people at the Quirino Grandstand in 2003, which was part of the campaign of the Department of Health for a healthy and active lifestyle.The Jam Step 2-12-12 will easily break the current record held by China at 13,000 people, said Bacolod Representative Anthony Golez, one of the organizers of the event.

Provincial-Pag-ibig housing project kicks off

• Source: http://pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?menu=2&webregion=R06&article=1011328864951
• Saturday 11th of February 2012

By Lorenzo O. Lambatin, Jr

BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occ., Feb. 11 (PIA6)--The long-awaited dream of many Manaplahons to own a house of their own is now turning to reality as officials led by Gov. Alfredo G. Marañon, Jr. led the groundbreaking ceremony of the three-hectare St. Joseph the Worker Village located in Brgy. Purisima, Municipality of Manapla recently.

It is a Provincial Housing Program of Negros Occidental in coordination with Pag-IBIG or Home Development Mutual Fund, through the Pabahay Program of Vice President Jejomar Binay.

Present at the activity were Board Members Salvador Escalante, Jr. and Miller Serondo of the Second District, Mayor Lourdes Escalante of the Municipality of Manapla, Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva of Sagay, Vice Mayor Edgar Pagayonan of Manapla, Executive Asst. to the Governor Manuel Escalante, III, personnel from DepEd – Manapla, and the municipal councilors.

Gov. Marañon said that the town of Manapla is the first in the province to have such provincial housing program. He added that a total of 70 houses will be constructed during its initial phase. The governor and Rep. Thirdy Marañon will each share in the amortization to further help the recipients. The facilities and amenities include a clubhouse with park and playground and a guardhouse. (Capitol New/JSC/LOL-PIA6 Negros Occ.)

Majority of congressmen favor special election in Negros Occidental 5th district

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=404501
• February 10, 2012, 7:28 pm

By (PNA)

LAP/AJP/CMGarde/vlo

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 10 (PNA) - Third District Congressman Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez here revealed recently that majority of the congressmen in the House of Representatives particularly in Negros Occidental are pushing for a special election in the 5th District to fill up the vacancy left by the late Representative Ignacio “Iggy” Arroyo who died in London last January 29.

Benitez said he favors the holding of the special polls so that the district will be managed by a leader who is really from the district.

The cost of holding a special election is estimated to be less than P7 million. However, he said it will be determined by the Commission on Election (Comelec).

He also said that House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. preferred to decide on the matter after the funeral of Arroyo.

The vacancy should be filled up to be fair with the people of the district, he said. He added it will be up to Congress to decide on how to fill in the vacuum at the district after Arroyo's death.

"The elected solon to represent the district will still have about 50 percent of the projects and programs to be delivered to his constituents," Benitez said.

It is still about 14 months to go before the May 2013 elections, but Benitez claimed the special election can be held in one day.

There are probable candidates in the district including Pulupandan Mayor Magdaleno Peña who has properties in Moises Padilla. Other possible candidates are Board Member Dr. Melvin Ibañez, Binalbagan Mayor Alejando Mirasol, Board Member Dino Yulo, former Isabela Mayor Renato Malabor, former Board Member Quito Montilla, former Moises Padilla Councilor Dolly Yasa and Grace Ibuna, Arroyo’s common law partner.

Meanwhile, after the arrival of the late solon’s remains was put on hold, former First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo, older brother of Iggy, confirmed that the lawmaker's body is expected to arrive in the country next week.

The arrival was delayed because of the claims and counter-claims between Iggy's wife Aleli Arroyo and Ibuna.

Bacolod City school heads asked to report earthquake damages

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=404148
• February 9, 2012, 8:33 pm

By (PNA)

DCT/LAM/AJP/CMG/vlo

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 09 (PNA) -- Joe Marie Vargas, Bacolod City Risk Reduction Management officer here, requested all school heads to report damages on structures as a result of Monday's magnitude 6.9 earthquake for evaluation and assessment.

Vargas said once they receive the initial reports of the school heads, they will endorse it to the City Engineer’s Office (CEO) and Office of the Building Official (OBO) to conduct an inspection so they would know which school building should be given immediate attention or still fit for use.

He said the inspection of some business establishments were already completed like Gaisano mall at the city downtown with its third floor still closed for shoppers.

He said the city is giving store owners some time to make corrections if needed based on recommendations given to them by the engineers.

Some colleges here have to suspend their classes to conduct technical evaluation and inspection to ensure the safety of students.

City assessing quake damage

• Source: http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/February/08/topstory4.htm
• Wednesday, February 8, 2012

By CHRYSEE SAMILLANO

School heads in Bacolod City have been asked to submit their initial reports on the damage caused by the earthquake for the Office of the Building Official and City Engineers Office to evaluate or assess their school buildings, Joe Marie Vargas, Bacolod City Risk Reduction Management officer, said yesterday.

After the initial reports of the school heads are submitted, they will endorse them to the CEO and OBO who will conduct an inspection to determine which school building should be given immediate attention, Vargas said.

They will also determine whether the building should be used or condemned, he added.

They have inspected the main store of Gaisano in the downtown area and only its third floor has been closed to the public, he said.

Vargas said he thanked the store owner, and those of other establishments for their engineers who joined the city team in conducting the inspection, adding that they will give the store owners a chance to make corrections on their structures based on the recommendations of the engineers.

Vargas said the La Consolacion College and West Negros University informed them that they suspended classes yesterday since they have to conduct technical evaluation and inspection to ensure the safety of students when classes resume today.

WNU president Oscar Suarez assured the public in an interview over ABS CBN that their buildings are very sound structurally and that, according to their engineers, the cracks found in some of its parts.

Close to 25,000 indigent families as of December 2011 have already received their Negros First Family Health Card. Benitez had earlier announced he will target 45,000 indigent families. (PNA)FFC/AJP/CMG/vlo

Solon taps DSWD to validate poverty data

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=403429
• February 7, 2012, 7:37 pm

By Carla N. Canet

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 7 (PNA) – Negros Occidental Third District Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez has tapped the assistance of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to conduct validation of baseline data on families in poverty level in his district for social services programs as well as legislative initiatives that will address poverty reduction.

Recently, he met with DSWD provincial head Liane Garcia and social welfare officers of cities and towns in the third district in his Victorias District Office.

The group briefed Benitez and his staff on the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction or NHTS-PR, a system adopted nationwide to identify poor households.

Benitez said he recognizes the need to align his district’s database with that of the NHTS-PR through the DSWD to ensure relevant and purposive planning and budgeting for social welfare programs.

He especially sees the critical need for alignment with the implementation of the Negros Occidental Comprehensive Health Program (NOCHP).

To date, the third district posts the highest registration of beneficiaries to the NOCHP and also the highest in the availment of services in the government hospitals.

Close to 25,000 indigent families as of December 2011 have already received their Negros First Family Health Card. Benitez had earlier announced he will target 45,000 indigent families. (PNA)FFC/AJP/CMG/vlo

Volunteers clean Bacolod's thoroughfares

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/local-news/2012/02/06/volunteers-clean-bacolods-thoroughfares-204542
• Monday, February 6, 2012

By Carla N. Canet

THE Bacolod City Task Force Clean and Green, chaired by Mayor Evelio R. Leonardia, started the cleanup drive last Saturday at the main thoroughfares of the city.

The activity was participated by City Government employees, civic organizations, private individuals and other concerned citizens.

It started from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. covering the whole Lacson-Mandalagan strip from North Terminal to Magsaysay Avenue, including Lopez Jaena, Locsin and Aguinaldo.

Saturday's activity was the first of the four Saturdays which the task force had scheduled the cleanup from February 4, 2012.

Leonardia said this activity launches the clean and green campaign where they have solicited the participation of the different sectors.

To a certain extent, it was a surprise that not only the casual employees have volunteered to join but also the regular employees of the city. The police also came in full force. I understand the teachers are also somewhere else. The civic clubs, the Bacolod City College were in the streets to help clean the city, he said.

He added that the immediate target of the campaign was to spread awareness and consciousness to our people.

He said that one of the highlights of his first administration in 1995 was the city's winning of the cleanest and greenest city in the country and it came at a time when the city was already normalizing garbage collection.

He said that if the privatization can also be implemented, it could accelerate things.

This is a very good start. This will run for four weekends and by that time, we have already saturated the program and it is just a question of follow-up, he said.

We started the information education campaign in the barangays and schools to teach everyone about segregation. We promote zero waste. This would mean that at source (household), those recyclable materials like empty bottles, sachets, cans, old newspapers, among others. As an incentive to her house helpers, they are the ones selling it and they can have extra income. Those that are compostable, we compose it, Councilor Em Ang said.

We are calling on the non-government organizations to help us out like the garden club, orchid society, cause-oriented groups and civic organizations to adopt certain areas for beautification, he added.

She asked the people to start cleaning you own backyard, let's segregate at home and help clean your immediate surroundings and then if we can expand to the bigger community outside of your homes which is the barangays and help spread the word to be clean, it could really help a lot.

Let us not hesitate to call the attention of our neighbors if they do illegal dumping of garbage by gently reminding them that it is against the law and it is grossly immoral to do it. I hope that all Bacolodnons will support this program and see dramatic results in shortest time possible. Let us be driven by the line that, I'm Bacolodnon and I'm proud to be clean and green, she said.

Vice Mayor Sayson said this is just a start in the clean and green program and hopefully, this will rub off to the employees and citizens of Bacolod, in general.

The task force is chaired by Vice Mayor Jude Thaddeus Sayson, with overall chairman Sylvia Servando and Councilors Em Ang, Sonya Verdeflor and Mona Dia Jardin as cluster chairpersons.

Neg. Occ. is among the top 10 national rice award winners

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=403008
• February 5, 2012, 7:50 pm

By (PNA)

scs/ajp/CMG/vlo

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 5 (PNA) - The provincial government of Negros Occidental has been adjudged as one of the winners in the Top Ten Provinces category of the Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers’ Awards.

This information was relayed by Regional Executive Director Larry Nacionales of the Regional Field Unit, Department of Agriculture, to Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. with a special notice to provincial agriculturist Igmedio Tabianan.

Marañon and Tabianan have been invited to the award-giving ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on February 10.

The award is in connection with a project proposal worth P4 million which would be submitted to DA Assistant Secretary Dante Delima, National Rice Program Coordinator.

The new award is a signal honor for the province and the Office of the Provincial Agriculture (OPA) headed by Tabianan.

The province of Negros Occidental and OPA were also awarded in Taiwan for being among the most productive provinces and in the promotion of organic agriculture.

TESDA, Talisay tie-up for training, job scheme

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=402928
• February 4, 2012, 8:01 pm

By (PNA)

scs/ajp/CMG/vlo

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 4 (PNA) - The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Talisay City government will conduct the Samahang Speyalista Technoprenuership Program in house repair and maintenance services here from Feb. 6 to 11.

The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement and turnover of tools by TESDA and the official opening of the contact center is on Feb. 6.

The project aims to assist the initial group of 10 TESDA-certified graduates in Plumbing National Competency (NC) II, Carpentry NC II and Electrical Maintenance and Installation NC II to form a group and start their self-employment enterprise.

TESDA will also provide each of them with basic tool kits to start their service jobs.

The tools will be collectively managed by the group at the Contact Center, Director Lorena Yunque of TESDA Negros Occidental said.

TESDA has also designated a project coordinator to assist the group in developing their entrepreneurial capability.

Other grouping will be formed by TESDA in collaboration with the provincial and city governments and Technical/Vocational institutions in Negros Occidental within the year for the agencies certified graduates.

Cong. Iggy’s remains expected in Negros Occidental on Monday

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=402776
• February 3, 2012, 5:13 pm

By (PNA)

RMA/ajp/CMGarde/vlo

BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 3 (PNA) – The remains of 5th District Congressman of Negros Occidental, Ignacio “Iggy” Tuason Arroyo are expected to arrive in Negros Occidental on Feb. 6, according to 5th district Board Member Melvin Ibañez.

Arroyo died in London on Jan. 26 after a long battle with cirrhosis of the liver and his remains will arrive in the country either on Friday or Saturday. A two to three-day wake will be held at the House of Representatives.

Ibañez said, Iggy’s daughter Dina Arroyo Tantoco informed him that her father’s remains would be taken to Negros, and he had been overseeing preparations for his wake in Binalbagan. Arroyo's body will be laid in a church in Barangay Payao, Binalbagan, the hometown of Arroyo, Ibanez said.

The Arroyo properties are located in Binalbagan and Isabela towns. After two days, Arroyo's body will be taken back to Manila and is set to be buried in a family's mausoleum in Quezon City.

Meanwhile, there will be no special election to be held in the 5th District. House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte is reportedly appointing two representatives from neighboring districts, Rep. Jeffrey Ferrer of the 4th District and Rep. Mercedes Alvarez of the 6th District.

Biz groups file appeal vs. city tax code at DOJ BING SAYS DIALOGS CONTINUING

• Source: http://www.visayandailystar.com/2012/February/01/topstory1.htm
• Wednesday, February 1, 2012

By HRYSEE SAMILLANO

The Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Bacolod Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry filed an appeal before the Department of Justice Friday questioning the constitutionality or legality of the Bacolod City Ordinance 565, or the Revised Revenue Code of Bacolod City.

The appeal was filed by Frank Carbon and Ben Ortega, representing the MBCCI and BFCCCI, respectively, against Mayor Evelio Leonardia, Vice Mayor Jude Thaddeus Sayson, Sangguniang Panlungsod members and City Treasurer Annabelle Badajos.

Leonardia said “That is expected. In fact, we have already talked about it.” That is something they had to do to comply with thereglementary period of 30 days from the implementation of the ordinance, he said.

In their 22-page appeal, the businessmen represented by Rahnel Perez, asked the Justice Secretary to declare C.O. 565 as unconstitutional and/or illegal for having been passed without complying with the mandatory requirements set forth by the Local Government Code and its Implementing Rules and Regulations.

They said C.O. 565 amended and increased the rates of business taxes previously imposed under Ordinance 93-001, beyond the allowable tax rate adjustment ceiling as provided for by law.

“This second upward adjustment, after the first upward adjustment made in 1993, grossly exceeds the 10 percent maximum increase under the provisions of Section 191 of the LGC,” they added.

The businessmen said the resulting percentage of increase brought about by C.O. 565 is clearly unjust, excessive, oppressive and confiscatory, compared to the old rates.

They said local taxes are also considered as overhead expenses of business enterprise and these overhead expenses cannot be recovered by increasing the selling price of services, commodities, goods or merchandise, as this would only result to higher tax payments as the tax base is based on “gross receipts or gross sales.”

They said that with the high payments for local taxes, various overhead expenses and other cost of doing business; business enterprises, including those of the members of the MBCCI and BFCCCI, will surely be precluded from engaging in the pursuit of business.

The unconscionable increase in tax rates under C.O. 565 is excessive, as to be prohibitive and will result to a business environment that will not be conducive to enterprises, they said.

They also said C.O. was passed without complying with the mandatory requirements under the LGC such as pre-public hearing publication or posting, written notice, and public hearing, failing to comply with the posting requirements for ordinances with penal sanctions, and for violating the ceiling rate of increase.

Leonardia said “We respect their move. At the same time, we explained that the SP went through the procedures and consulted the City Legal Office before the new Tax Code was finally approved.”

We will wait for the decision of the DOJ and we will cross the bridge when they come to, he said.

Leonardia said what is significant now is that the city and the different business groups have started to sit down and explore what are the possibilities under the circ*mstance.

He said they have agreed that, regardless the result of the cases they have filed, the dialog will continue.

“This is nothing personal, and we consider this as a business decision as against the politically motivated case filed by former Bacolod Rep. Monico Puentevella,” Leonardia said.

Meanwhile, Leonardia said Puentevella is either guessing or lying when he said that Bacolod has an outstanding loan of P1.3 billion.

He said records of the city show that its outstanding loan in less than P500 million.

“We assure the people that the money was not plundered as was the accusation about the funds for the SEAGames case”, Leonardia adde