tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13310109927338045562024-03-12T17:32:59.566-07:00WANDERINGS OF A HOMELESS JOURNALISTraymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-16775216946721669062011-10-20T22:13:00.000-07:002011-10-20T22:13:55.285-07:00STA. ANA, CAGAYAN; NOSTALGIA BY THE SEA<b>After the storm comes a bright new day so they say; so I was headed to a least known hideaway in the northeastern coastal board of Cagayan where the ferocious typhoon Mina reportedly unleashed its signal number 4 fury.</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f_tNG25B0is/TqDw90NQsLI/AAAAAAAAAVA/rtsM-7foZ4w/s1600/APDC1241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f_tNG25B0is/TqDw90NQsLI/AAAAAAAAAVA/rtsM-7foZ4w/s400/APDC1241.JPG" /></a></div>____________<br />
<i>Sunset in Sta. Ana, a source of inspiration for the poetic heart in the nostalgic town.</i><br />
____________<br />
<b>There was no Media coverage attributed to the Sta. Ana, home of the awesome Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), a chartered jurisdiction in Region 2 not within the power and control of the local government.This quiet fishing town some 120 kilometers northeast of Tuguegarao city has figured the headlines for the landfall of the signal number 4 strength super typhoon Mina, the second since typhoon Juan that ravaged the adjacent Isabela province and wrought over one billion pesos damages to crops and infrastructures.</b><br />
____________<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rhCeO81BNZE/TqDy3uAjD0I/AAAAAAAAAVM/J1yIIoptATc/s1600/APDC1202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rhCeO81BNZE/TqDy3uAjD0I/AAAAAAAAAVM/J1yIIoptATc/s400/APDC1202.JPG" /></a></div><i>A lovely pair of horse grazing in the sunny morning near Port San Vicente against the backdrop of a mangrove forest where trees grow in the sea<br />
</i>____________<br />
<br />
<b>My way to this serene coastal town known for the free port of Irene and Port San Vicente did not much professed the passing of a violent onslaught.</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mRubd1UxrWQ/TqD1BnwrjmI/AAAAAAAAAVY/59f8sz7-fK8/s1600/APDC1203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mRubd1UxrWQ/TqD1BnwrjmI/AAAAAAAAAVY/59f8sz7-fK8/s400/APDC1203.JPG" /></a></div>_________ <i>fishermen back to their trade on the fair and calm morning. At the distant view is the storm damaged MV Eagle Ferry which use to bring commuters to Calayan island also in the province of Cagayan.</i><br />
_________<br />
<b>Few trees and post leaned along the highway but the impression of the place being the eye of The furious typhoon Mina is not distinct. Vice Mayor Jeremias Costales said although public infrastructures and homes did not incur much damages Typhoon Mina has wrought extensive devastation in his town's palay crops citing some P9 million damage report by the Municipal Agricultural office. "The palay crops were in their vegetative stage during the typhoon onslaught and farmers in this town need assistance from the provincial government to subsidize their replanting efforts," lamented Costales. </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VhVwizaOdh0/TqD3OLI0gDI/AAAAAAAAAVk/F8L-grRrD7A/s1600/APDC1200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VhVwizaOdh0/TqD3OLI0gDI/AAAAAAAAAVk/F8L-grRrD7A/s400/APDC1200.JPG" /></a></div>_________<br />
<i>The distant view of the CEZA teeming with Business and Pleasure activities. Casinos here are exclusive to foreigners. Flocking to this place are mostly businessmen from Korea, Taiwan and Japan. To qualify entry, A Casino Player should keep at least $300 million in the bank and $30 million pocket money before being allowed to gamble.<br />
</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FmFOQUKIrDY/TqD5V2zpBXI/AAAAAAAAAVw/3QYJXclPy0c/s1600/APDC1204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FmFOQUKIrDY/TqD5V2zpBXI/AAAAAAAAAVw/3QYJXclPy0c/s400/APDC1204.JPG" /></a></div><i>Fresh catch from the sea unloaded at Port San Vicente "Bagsakan" where one could buy seafood that its fit for the budget</i> __________ <br />
<b>The Vice Mayor is seeking Cagayan Governor Alvaro Antonio to reconsider an earlier decision not to declare the province under "State of Calamity." <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></b><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eSiGjH8LvB0/TqD6wSYhZHI/AAAAAAAAAV8/wldCf4AC9yo/s1600/APDC1156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eSiGjH8LvB0/TqD6wSYhZHI/AAAAAAAAAV8/wldCf4AC9yo/s400/APDC1156.JPG" /></a></div><b>The Governor earlier said the province did not suffered much from the onslaught of the typhoon to warrant the declaration of state of calamity since the provincial fund is enough to address any reported damage.<br />
</b> <i>A wife giving verbal "instructions" to her husband before venturing into the sea with fellow fishermen.</i><br />
<b>However this mid October, Governor Antonio’s stance manifested a complete turnaround. He had to declare a State of Calamity this time in view of the recent twin calamities wrought by typhoons Quiel and Pedring. If Antonio still refuses to declare his turf under state of calamity; Cagayan’s untouched calamity fund goes back to Government coffers.</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0LShmBLc0VY/TqD9_SmaU0I/AAAAAAAAAWI/fVw3woq2heM/s1600/APDC1171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0LShmBLc0VY/TqD9_SmaU0I/AAAAAAAAAWI/fVw3woq2heM/s400/APDC1171.JPG" /></a></div>___________<br />
<i>My bed in the cozy accomodation at Countryside by the Sea Inn, Sta. Ana, Cagayan<br />
</i>__________ <b>Sta. Ana seems to be unfazed with the developments taking place elsewhere, lifestyle remain rural and the its populace still cling to traditional values despite the sprouting signs of economic expansion only addressed to a privileged few.</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-42151057885466461962011-10-19T21:40:00.000-07:002011-10-19T21:40:45.484-07:00SOLANO: A THRIVING COUNTY IN THE MOUNTAINS<b>A failed marital relation, hostile rapport and a gloomy environment; given preference to choose a new hometown to flee from the emotional remorse I long to escape, I would prefer relocating in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya</b>.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4LQn9jUs1Y/Tp-Ss-P9W0I/AAAAAAAAASw/XsEEeuZrhCo/s1600/APDC1374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4LQn9jUs1Y/Tp-Ss-P9W0I/AAAAAAAAASw/XsEEeuZrhCo/s400/APDC1374.JPG" /></a></div><i><br />
________<br />
A historic piece of the past, a World War II anti aircraft gunner at the heroe's park in Solano town</i><br />
________<br />
<br />
<b>I had the opportunity to stay in that socially warm place for a sojourn during their Patronal Festivities bonding old ties and finding fresh relations and have a feel how this promising municipality fared well as a “county that never sleeps” in Cagayan valley.<br />
Located some 250 kilometers north of Manila; Solano’s daily economic chores goes on from dusk till dawn. First hours at dawn till morning teem with scores of commuters passing this municipality from Manila and by nightfall, people going south cannot complete their journey without making the town a departure point before scouring the hour-long trek to the Caraballo ranges to leave Cagayan valley.<br />
</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3rDrepTN1R0/Tp-UH19FvgI/AAAAAAAAAS8/QT-ffhL8Scc/s1600/APDC1381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3rDrepTN1R0/Tp-UH19FvgI/AAAAAAAAAS8/QT-ffhL8Scc/s400/APDC1381.JPG" /></a></div>___________<br />
<i>A cozy view of Solano downtown, clean and shows sign of progressive rural setting</i> <br />
___________<br />
<b>Mayor Philip Dacayo, the man on the helm could vouch for the cityhood status of this town now boosting several establishments of banks, renowned food chains and groceries. However he believes there is more to work on to further usher his town to development.<br />
A lawyer by profession, the Mayor believes Solano and other municipalities can exact revenues with the continuing establishment of cellular sites. First however, his development team should study the status of other jurisdictions having the same proposal before handing the issue to the Municipal council.<br />
</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EdscFjhHmAc/Tp-Wnz4c8dI/AAAAAAAAATI/naV_uJawH2s/s1600/APDC1544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EdscFjhHmAc/Tp-Wnz4c8dI/AAAAAAAAATI/naV_uJawH2s/s400/APDC1544.JPG" /></a></div>____________<br />
<i>Releasing the Baloons by local officials headed by Mayor Dacayo and Vice Mayor Labasan signal the start of the festivities in connection to the feast day of St. Louis de Beltran of Solano<br />
</i>____________<br />
<b>The town has recently held festivities for its Patron- Saint Louis de Beltran while Catholics also flocked to pay homage to Cagayan Valley’s Patron Our Lady of Piat which made a weeklong stay at the Solano Parish Church. Activities to the merrymaking and galore showcased by the town were organized by Councilwoman Regie Valino- Valdez.</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6BonjOuE_-k/Tp-YQ590BSI/AAAAAAAAATU/WApB8-LtNRM/s1600/APDC1578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6BonjOuE_-k/Tp-YQ590BSI/AAAAAAAAATU/WApB8-LtNRM/s400/APDC1578.JPG" /></a></div>___________<br />
<i>The sunday services for Solano's Patron St. Louis de Beltran officiated by Bayombong Bishop Ramon Villena<br />
</i>___________ <br />
<b>Bayombong Bishop Ramon Villena celebrated the Sunday feast mass as he reiterated Christians’ commitment for the protection and preservation of the province’s natural wealth. He renewed his call for the rejection of mining</b>.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wv9QMy2iE6w/Tp-arH8tv1I/AAAAAAAAATg/iGHKNI3rw-E/s1600/APDC1581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wv9QMy2iE6w/Tp-arH8tv1I/AAAAAAAAATg/iGHKNI3rw-E/s400/APDC1581.JPG" /></a></div>_____________<br />
<i>Bishop Villena paying homage to "Apo Baket", Our Lady of Piat.. Cagayan Valley's Patron<br />
</i>_____________<br />
<b>During a forum at the provincial capitol; Solano Vice Mayor Alex Labasan lamented that the existing mining laws seemed tailor made for the whims of the national government whose approval has been superseding the position of the local government.<br />
He said at the moment, local officials could not, and even if they can- impose their position on mining issues particularly how the activity could be regulated</b>.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSK5BQVj0ok/Tp-cMn4RuBI/AAAAAAAAATs/DMI0SIqKLY4/s1600/APDC1591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSK5BQVj0ok/Tp-cMn4RuBI/AAAAAAAAATs/DMI0SIqKLY4/s400/APDC1591.JPG" /></a></div>____________<br />
<i>The people to be rekoned with when it comes to mining should be us... stresses Vice Mayor Labasan</i><br />
____________<br />
<b>So far, Solanoans have many reasons to thank the heavens since their town is the least affected by the onslaught of the series of typhoons that hit northern Luzon.<br />
The Vice Mayor said, most of those damaged in his turf are old and dilapidated houses and a pocket of mudslides in some remote mountainside villages</b>.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MV4kGs4bJfQ/Tp-dtLwo9KI/AAAAAAAAAT4/97kOSmROW9A/s1600/APDC1560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MV4kGs4bJfQ/Tp-dtLwo9KI/AAAAAAAAAT4/97kOSmROW9A/s400/APDC1560.JPG" /></a></div>__________<br />
<i>Challenges lies ahead to the leadership of Mayor Dacayo to make Solano not only an even better place, but the Best.<br />
</i>__________<br />
<b>“Pasalamat tayo wala na si (typhoon) Ramon at di nagpunta dito; ang narito ngayon ay ang inyong si Bishop Ramon,” the Bishop said after the celebration.</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--8xc5SbFnyc/Tp-fLRx8zyI/AAAAAAAAAUE/A_4dMDKkrYs/s1600/APDC1556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--8xc5SbFnyc/Tp-fLRx8zyI/AAAAAAAAAUE/A_4dMDKkrYs/s400/APDC1556.JPG" /></a></div>___________<br />
<i>Despite the unleash of Pedring and Quiel's fury, Solano folks find time to showcase their bounty harvest during the One Barangay, One Product micro enerpreneur expo held at the Heroes park, Governor Luisa Cuaresma of Nueva Vizcaya graced the affair.</i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mvqg1xJe4nQ/Tp-gNinkxJI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/bKkix-SoPBw/s1600/APDC1570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mvqg1xJe4nQ/Tp-gNinkxJI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/bKkix-SoPBw/s400/APDC1570.JPG" /></a></div><i>The Governor is flanked by active women leaders Board Member Rina Balgos and Councilwoman Regie Valino-Valdez</i><br />
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<br />
<b>Solano is currently enhancing its “One Barangay, One Product” program, a micro enterprise counterpart of provincial government’s program of sustaining Nueva Vizcaya industries and products</b>.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-94Hm_CrrUs0/Tp-hp5xBgPI/AAAAAAAAAUc/yc0UqNAn_r8/s1600/APDC1555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-94Hm_CrrUs0/Tp-hp5xBgPI/AAAAAAAAAUc/yc0UqNAn_r8/s400/APDC1555.JPG" /></a></div>____________<br />
<i>"Patupat", a native "malagkit" delicacy of Solano</i><br />
____________<br />
<i>The Popular "Tupig" - roasted "Malagkit" with "Buko" and peanuts of Solano (below) during the One Barangay One Product Expo<br />
</i>____________<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jGYRrR2gFgw/Tp-jFgp9aCI/AAAAAAAAAUo/JKFN24pOtmE/s1600/APDC1558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jGYRrR2gFgw/Tp-jFgp9aCI/AAAAAAAAAUo/JKFN24pOtmE/s400/APDC1558.JPG" /></a></div><b>Solano’s barangays have showcased their products during the mini trade fair at the town’s heroes’ park early October.<br />
At the scene at the Solano government center; Parish Priest father Edmund Beronio has renewed the Local Government Unit’s faith with the blessing and dedication of the municipal hall and its facilities in its continuing service to the public.</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCm--EZTqIQ/Tp-kJKND60I/AAAAAAAAAU0/YCQdRa8pq6k/s1600/APDC1604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCm--EZTqIQ/Tp-kJKND60I/AAAAAAAAAU0/YCQdRa8pq6k/s400/APDC1604.JPG" /></a></div>___________<br />
<i>Father Edmund blessing one of the local government's heavy equipment, "whatever you do, do it for the Glory of God."<br />
</i>___________<br />
<b>Solano will go a long way to prosperity with the optimism and active response of its leaders and grassroots supporters.<br />
</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-48679493020243323412011-05-26T22:03:00.000-07:002011-05-26T22:03:26.947-07:00WHEN THE TRADITIONAL VENERATION FOR THE PATRON IS OVERSHADOWED BY SECULAR FESTIVITIES<b><br />
ILAGAN, Isabela- In terms of Faith; there is no delineation for the Church and State according newly installed Rev. Fr. Edmundo Castaneda as head of the Saint Ferdinand Parish in the poblacion of the Capital of Ilagan.<br />
Fr. Castaneda commented on the conduct of public service emphasizing on the honesty and service oriented delivery of basic services to the people by officials regardless of their religious belief and creed.<br />
Barely a week since assigned here, the new Parish Priest said he does not mind if the feast of Ilagan's Patron Saint- King Ferdinand of Castille has been overshadowed by the ongoing conduct of the secular “Mam-mangui” (Corn) Festivities of the Municipal Government initiated by Mayor Josemarie Diaz.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WYmLd8doyGI/Td8s6oElbOI/AAAAAAAAASE/JAQSqco1o3M/s1600/saint_ferdinand.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WYmLd8doyGI/Td8s6oElbOI/AAAAAAAAASE/JAQSqco1o3M/s400/saint_ferdinand.JPG" /></a></div><br />
ILAGAN PATRON SAINT, KING FERDINAND OF CASTILLES<br />
_____________<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sg0yLY9JWtI/Td8tprEncaI/AAAAAAAAASM/-7Hznq1XTfI/s1600/st_ferdinand_church" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sg0yLY9JWtI/Td8tprEncaI/AAAAAAAAASM/-7Hznq1XTfI/s400/st_ferdinand_church" /></a></div><br />
<br />
THE PARISH CHURCH OF SAINT FERDINAND<br />
_____________<br />
Casteneda said he understands the changes in time having his Parish limited to the realm of the poblacion and immediate vicinities since the Cathedral has been moved to Gamu town.<br />
Castaneda said Ilagan Parishoners are still active and are responding to Church activities specially those in line with the feast day of the Patron to include the regular novena prayers held in the Church in veneration of the saint.<br />
BLACK CLOUDS HOVERING ILAGAN: "WRAT OF THE GODS?"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qjj3GCI9Zas/Td8uf3Jii7I/AAAAAAAAASU/87fKskM_4M4/s1600/black%2Bcloud.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qjj3GCI9Zas/Td8uf3Jii7I/AAAAAAAAASU/87fKskM_4M4/s400/black%2Bcloud.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<br />
At the town hall along Rizal St. at the Poblacion; Municipal and Barangay officials have been making their festival creation as merry as ever even as the tail of the leaving typhoon Chedeng apparently spoiled slated activities in line of the “Mam-Magui” hype. The Municipal Information Office relayed in a morning radio broadcast of the possible scrapping of some festival activities organized by Mayor Diaz to include the catching fray of Ilaguenos of greased pigs and chickens for their “pulutan” in the streets of the town earlier closed by the Police for the event.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RrA2E3T-1Wk/Td8vl5i0TFI/AAAAAAAAASc/N8HTXmppd4Y/s1600/poblacion01" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RrA2E3T-1Wk/Td8vl5i0TFI/AAAAAAAAASc/N8HTXmppd4Y/s400/poblacion01" /></a></div><br />
<br />
At the evening of May 27; the town proper remained apparently an abandoned settlement had not for a free concert held at the Community center where bulk of residents in the poblacion jampacked the forsaken and dilapidated public hall if only to catch a feel that the capital is celebrating its fiesta. <br />
The concert had left the carnival set up at the town's south end a run for its existence that night since the the people's lack of interest to flock the place has been coupled by the muddy grounds brought by continuous rains and lack of attractions to persuade promenaders.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XCZJz1B7aAo/Td8v7jY2cwI/AAAAAAAAASk/YO2Kz1MMjEI/s1600/poblacio02" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XCZJz1B7aAo/Td8v7jY2cwI/AAAAAAAAASk/YO2Kz1MMjEI/s400/poblacio02" /></a></div><br />
DEAD TOWN PROPER: IS THERE A FIESTA???<br />
<br />
Castaneda said it is not fair to equate the drab fiesta of Ilagan to the wrath of the Gods having been neglected by the festival hypes conducted by local officials. First; he said the “Mam-Mangui” is an exclusive celebration of the local government and secondly; the Church feels more comfortable celebrating the religious feast day free from political influence.<br />
In fact; Castaneda said said local officials admitted they could not participate in sponsoring the Feast Day Mass of St. Ferdinand on May 30 and even sought the possibility of moving the celebration to the 29th. The Local Government's reason: officials will be busy conducting the Parade event on the very date of the feast day.<br />
However; Castaneda slated an LGU sponsored mass in the Patron's honor on the 29th but the real feast day mass still goes on at the 30th.</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-82360597190455865432011-05-18T22:20:00.000-07:002011-05-18T22:20:20.218-07:00WHEN FILIPINOS GET KUDOS FOR A FEAT KILLING FELLOW FILIPINOS<b>Raymund Catindig<br />
CAMP ADDURU, TUGUEGARAO CITY- The mood was busy.. the top man of the helm of the Philippine National Police, Director General Raul Bacalzo; was due here then last Monday to commend his boys reportedly for a “Job Well Done” neutralizing their rebel foe Jose Asco a.k.a Kumander Baylon in an engagement days earlier in Baragay Lakambini, town of Tuao. Four alleged rebels were killed with Asco.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SpGuSoh3Rp8/TdSkK0k4LwI/AAAAAAAAARU/scRqbKanfRo/s1600/NPA%2Brecovered%2Bguns%2Band%2Bammos%2Bare%2Bbeing%2Binventoried%2Bby%2Bone%2Bpolice%2Boperative%2Bfollowing%2Bthe%2Bclash%2Bwith%2Brebels%2Bunder%2BJose%2BAsco%2Baka%2BBaylon%2Bin%2BTuao%252C%2BCagayan%2Bthursday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SpGuSoh3Rp8/TdSkK0k4LwI/AAAAAAAAARU/scRqbKanfRo/s400/NPA%2Brecovered%2Bguns%2Band%2Bammos%2Bare%2Bbeing%2Binventoried%2Bby%2Bone%2Bpolice%2Boperative%2Bfollowing%2Bthe%2Bclash%2Bwith%2Brebels%2Bunder%2BJose%2BAsco%2Baka%2BBaylon%2Bin%2BTuao%252C%2BCagayan%2Bthursday.jpg" /></a></div>A POLICE OPERATIVE INVENTORIES THE AMMOS AND OTHER ARMAMENTS PRIOR TO POLICE DIRECTOR GENERAL RAUL BACALZO'S ARRIVAL AT CAMP MARCELO ADDURU, TUGUEGARAO CITY<br />
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Asco's band of 30 rag tag partisans armed with shaky and aging automatic rifles became a pain in the ass of the Police and Military for their cat-and-dog conduct of pursuit in western Cagayan particularly in Rizal, Tuao, Lasam and Sto. Nino since November 2010.<br />
What gave the government the ire to annihilate Asco and his group was their responsibility in the ambush-slay of five Policemen last February in Rizal town that killed its Chief of Police- Sr. Insp. Antonino Rueco. Rueco's wife Mary Ann- a policewoman also died in the assault.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R8P57KB_zqs/TdSk0eIbZpI/AAAAAAAAARc/DSgkp2gE0FY/s1600/NPA%2Brecovered%2Bitems%2Bbesides%2Bguns%2Band%2Bammos%2Binclude%2Bfeminine%2Bwas%253B%2Ba%2Blipstick%252C%2Bbaby%2Bpowder%2Bgiving%2Bproofs%2Bthat%2Bthe%2Bpeople%2Bon%2Bthe%2Btrail%2Bof%2Bpolice%2Bpursuit%2Bare%2Bactualy%2Bgirls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R8P57KB_zqs/TdSk0eIbZpI/AAAAAAAAARc/DSgkp2gE0FY/s400/NPA%2Brecovered%2Bitems%2Bbesides%2Bguns%2Band%2Bammos%2Binclude%2Bfeminine%2Bwas%253B%2Ba%2Blipstick%252C%2Bbaby%2Bpowder%2Bgiving%2Bproofs%2Bthat%2Bthe%2Bpeople%2Bon%2Bthe%2Btrail%2Bof%2Bpolice%2Bpursuit%2Bare%2Bactualy%2Bgirls.jpg" /></a></div>A LIPSTICK, FEMININE WASH, FACE POWDER AND OTHER FEMALE ITEMS WERE AMONG THOSE RECOVERED FROM THE REBELS.. ONE OF THOSE REPORTED DEAD IS A FEMALE AND HER BODY IS STILL SPRAWLED AT THE MORTUARY.<br />
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Although without not much narrative information; my mind is wandering afar how the two wounded Policemen figured in the reported “firefight” in Barangay Lakambini are getting “kudos” from their boss who was on his way to this camp via airplane. In an account by one policeman; the two ran for safety hitting one of them at the leg, and the other grazed by a bullet on the face.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O2_yzhX2sQ4/TdSl14rWinI/AAAAAAAAARk/DgiEDHaFN2M/s1600/NPA%2BRecovered%2Bcanned%2Bgoods%2Band%2Bother%2Bprovisions%2Bare%2Binventoried%2Bby%2Ba%2Bpolice%2Boperative%2Bfollowing%2Bthe%2Bclash%2Bwith%2Brebels%2Bunder%2BJose%2BAsco%2Baka%2BBaylon%2Bin%2BTuao%252C%2BCagayan%2Blast%2Bthursday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O2_yzhX2sQ4/TdSl14rWinI/AAAAAAAAARk/DgiEDHaFN2M/s400/NPA%2BRecovered%2Bcanned%2Bgoods%2Band%2Bother%2Bprovisions%2Bare%2Binventoried%2Bby%2Ba%2Bpolice%2Boperative%2Bfollowing%2Bthe%2Bclash%2Bwith%2Brebels%2Bunder%2BJose%2BAsco%2Baka%2BBaylon%2Bin%2BTuao%252C%2BCagayan%2Blast%2Bthursday.jpg" /></a></div>FOOD SUPPLIES OF CANNED GOODS SUCH AS SARDINES AND A SACK OF RICE ARE AMONG THE ITEMS THE REBELS CARRY WITH THEM WHENEVER THEY GO. THEY GET HUNGRY TOO LIKE THE AVERAGE FILIPINO MASSESS.<br />
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During my heydays coverage with the military; I remember the process of conferring commendation among soldiers for their heroic deeds entails a narration of their feat and how they were able to deserve such citation for valor.<br />
Anyway, after taking photographs of supposed armaments and personal effects recovered from the rebels from the encounter site; I decided to drop to the Regional Office of the Commission on Human Rights to verify the alleged Children casualties in Barangay Lakambini. Reportedly; the children were used by the rebels as Human Shields from the pursuing Policemen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3OcMXAO4ye8/TdSmtRA6lfI/AAAAAAAAARs/vBEzQAxcdVs/s1600/RAG08" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3OcMXAO4ye8/TdSmtRA6lfI/AAAAAAAAARs/vBEzQAxcdVs/s400/RAG08" /></a></div>THE HAMMER AND SICKLE SYMBOL OF COMMUNISM; THE CHR VIEWED HOWEVER THAT THE ATTROCITIES IN RIZAL IS PURELY "A FAMILY AFFAIR."<br />
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CHR Chief Investigator Perlita Agana said the family name Asco really does ring the bell in the war-torn Rizal. Though the slain rebel commander hails from that place; two other family members were figured in two cases of Human Rights violation cases filed with Agana's office. The Ascos alluded were members of the Police force and were complained for armed harassment by their neighbors, townmates and even relatives.<br />
According to Agana; the armed conflict in Rizal and its immediate neighboring towns known as the “Zinundungan Valey area” can be cited as a “Family affair.” Most armed related cases she said, involved blood relatives.<br />
While there are prominent New People's Army personalities hail from the said place; the same realm has likewise produced avid military and police supporters. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fY6-SyKaxw/TdSnH3AwcnI/AAAAAAAAAR0/_LXnfVwASUk/s1600/RAG06" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fY6-SyKaxw/TdSnH3AwcnI/AAAAAAAAAR0/_LXnfVwASUk/s400/RAG06" /></a></div>CELLPHONES RECOVERED IN THE ENCOUNTER SCENE. A BIG HELP FOR THE REBELS MOBILIZATION REPLACING THEIR TRADITIONAL EMPLOYMENT TO PEOPLE RUNNING AS THEIR "PASA-BILIS"<br />
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Agana admitted people in the area are more antagonized against the military than police authorities.<br />
She said the Rizal townsfolk still bear their indignation against the military whom they suspect executing and burying Nelson Ascena, the Sangguniang Kabataan Chairman of Barangay San Juan years back. A case was filed by the CHR against one “Lt. Pascua”, the latter was <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJUGUU-bRXI/TdSnxC1VK_I/AAAAAAAAAR8/24COWOmwEmU/s1600/RAG03" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJUGUU-bRXI/TdSnxC1VK_I/AAAAAAAAAR8/24COWOmwEmU/s400/RAG03" /></a></div>THER'ES PLAYING CARDS AS PASS TIME, ALSO RECOVERED FROM REBEL POSSESSION WERE PERSONAL EFFECT, BENDED SPOON.. BUT NO CONDOMS. THEY PROBABLY DON'T SUPPORT PRESIDENT AQUINO'S RH BILL<br />
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said to have been relieved to his mother unit at Camp Aguinaldo in Metro Manila while the case is moving on its turtle phase.<br />
The atrocities in Rizal and its neighboring realm is more of a family affair said the CHR investigator. Kumander Baylon's men involved in Ambushing Rueco's party where from Rizal.. so as those policemen killed in the assault were from the same town.<br />
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Well, Bacalzo was said to be arriving at this camp by noon time to Publicly announce his commendation for his boys for their accomplishment in neutralizing Asco and his group- “a job well done.”<br />
“No thanks” I just told myself. I have to catch the next bus back to Isabela. I'm not that stupid heralding the General's hurray for a feat involving Filipinos killing fellow Filipinos. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-71408722326821850602011-04-28T19:23:00.000-07:002011-04-28T19:23:10.501-07:00PAGURIGAN STADIUM GRANDSTAND:ONCE A SPLENDID LANDMARK, NOW ILAGAN'S MOST HAZARDOUS PLACE<b><br />
ILAGAN, Isabela- Clarita 37 sends her two teenage sons for a summer training on sports undertaken at the oval of the once renowned Paguirigan Stadium at the gateway to the poblacion of this provincial capital. Her purpose was to make wise use of the summer vacation for the development of her offspring's sports enthusiasm and most of all- keep her sons away from imminent danger posed by various social elements.<br />
Little did she know; she was courting disaster.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_b_XudkDJ6I/TboYFah7YUI/AAAAAAAAAQs/G-4Fk7GlSm8/s1600/ruins%2Bof%2Bthe%2Bpagurigan%2Bstadium%2Bgrandstand%2Bposes%2Bdanger%2Bto%2Bstudents%2Bof%2Bisabela%2Bnational%2Bhigh%2Bschool%2Bwhich%2Bis%2Binside%2Bthe%2Bschool%2Bcompound.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_b_XudkDJ6I/TboYFah7YUI/AAAAAAAAAQs/G-4Fk7GlSm8/s400/ruins%2Bof%2Bthe%2Bpagurigan%2Bstadium%2Bgrandstand%2Bposes%2Bdanger%2Bto%2Bstudents%2Bof%2Bisabela%2Bnational%2Bhigh%2Bschool%2Bwhich%2Bis%2Binside%2Bthe%2Bschool%2Bcompound.JPG" /></a></div><br />
ONCE A CLASSIC VIEW OF THE PROVINCIAL CAPITAL OF ILAGAN AS YOU ENTER THE POBLACION AREA IS NOW A PICTURE OF NEGLECT AND GOVERNMENT INDIFFERENCE<br />
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The ruins of the Pascual Paguirigan Stadium Grandstand inside the Isabela National High School (INHS) compound has been left the way it was- forsaken since its devastation a broad daylight fire in 2003.<br />
Students were having their Physical Education classes in the grandstand shortly before noon on a hot summer day of April 14 when an overheating ceiling fan sparked and swiftly spread its flames in the structure's old dried up roof. Students and teachers helplessly watched the fire aggravated by the hot summer temperature ate the grandstand in less than an hour. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0-VMMQ8zhOA/TbobfOS_CKI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/aSJRaOOA5D4/s1600/the%2Bfilthy%2Bruins%2Bof%2Bthe%2Bpagurigan%2Bstadium%2Bgrandstand%2Bin%2Bilagan%252C%2Bisabela%2Bgreets%2Bthe%2Bsight%2Bof%2Bpeople%2Bentering%2Bthe%2Btown%2Bproper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0-VMMQ8zhOA/TbobfOS_CKI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/aSJRaOOA5D4/s400/the%2Bfilthy%2Bruins%2Bof%2Bthe%2Bpagurigan%2Bstadium%2Bgrandstand%2Bin%2Bilagan%252C%2Bisabela%2Bgreets%2Bthe%2Bsight%2Bof%2Bpeople%2Bentering%2Bthe%2Btown%2Bproper.JPG" /></a></div><br />
THE FILTHY RUINS OF THE GRANDSTAND POSES AND ADDITIONAL HAZARD TO STUDENTS' HEALTH BESIDES THE IMMINENT DANGER POSED BY LEANING WOODEN POSTS<br />
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The stadium was once a splendor of the town's historic past greets every visitor going in and out of the municipal proper. <br />
Upon the assumption to office of newly elected Governor Grace Padaca the in May of the following year; School Principal Oscar Martinez has been requesting her office for the Provincial Engineering Office to undertake the demolition of the stadium remnants. Although the school was assured by the Padaca Administration of its favorable response; the assurance remained an empty promise. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9QL9-eMcRTg/TbocfvB8JiI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/0jYM7LCImPY/s1600/what%2Bremains%2Bof%2Bthe%2Bpaguirigan%2Bstadium%2Bgrandstand%2Bin%2Bilagan%252C%2Bsite%2Bof%2Bthe%2B1978%2Bpalarong%2Bpambansa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9QL9-eMcRTg/TbocfvB8JiI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/0jYM7LCImPY/s400/what%2Bremains%2Bof%2Bthe%2Bpaguirigan%2Bstadium%2Bgrandstand%2Bin%2Bilagan%252C%2Bsite%2Bof%2Bthe%2B1978%2Bpalarong%2Bpambansa.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S06E4J-SDXU/Tboc3uJLEnI/AAAAAAAAARE/aV_1GZ8ghJU/s1600/IMG_4609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S06E4J-SDXU/Tboc3uJLEnI/AAAAAAAAARE/aV_1GZ8ghJU/s400/IMG_4609.JPG" /></a></div><br />
OFFICIALS OF ILAGAN SHOULD ADOPT THE FORMER PAGURIGAN STADIUM FOR SANITATION THAN WASTING TIME DOING JUNKETS AT THE DESOLATED STA. VICTORIA NATIONAL PARK WHEREIN THE MUNICIPALITY DOESN'T DERIVE MUCH INCOME FROM DEVELOPING THE PLACE<br />
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By 2010, after losing her bid for a third term to incumbent Gov. Faustino Dy III; Padaca is gone but the Pagurigan Stadium ruins still remains. The ruins echoes the government's stance of neglect and indifference views Andriano Mata 39, who dries his palay harvest in the pavement of the stadium's once basketball and volleyball courts. Built during the early 50s Paguirigan stadium was site of the 1978 Palarong Pambansa.<br />
Late October of the same year; Typhoon Juan lashed its peak signal number 4 winds followed by torrential cold front rains until December causing the ruin's huge wooden pillars to fall and some to leaned thus, posing imminent danger to the public, mostly students frequenting the area.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5QklG3meO1c/TboeYXgRWVI/AAAAAAAAARM/Y06cBfQyBbk/s1600/IMG_4604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5QklG3meO1c/TboeYXgRWVI/AAAAAAAAARM/Y06cBfQyBbk/s400/IMG_4604.JPG" /></a></div>THE "PERYAHAN" CARAVAN IS CURRENTLY SETTING UP ITSELF AT THE STADIUM'S OVAL WHERE ITS TEMPORARY SETTLERS WANTONLY DSPOSE THEIR SHIT AROUND THE AREA. ALTHOUGH THE PLACE IS UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE ISABELA NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL; EDUCATION OFFICIALS DENY EXACTING PROCEEDS OF THE COLLECTIONS OF THE FIESTA CARAVAN WHICH COULD AT LEAST HELP THE SCHOOL REHABILITATE ITSELF FROM THE DAMAGES WROUGHT BY THE LAST TYPHOON. MAYOR JOSEMARIE DIAZ SHOULD AT LEAST MAKE PUBLIC HOW MUCH THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT RAKES DURING THE OPERATION OF THIS "PERYAHAN" THROUGH PUBLIC ACCOUNTING AFTER THE MAY 30 PATRONAL TOWN FIESTA. THIS IS FOR PUBLIC INFORMATION WHERE ILAGUENOS TAXES GO. AT THE BACKGROUND IS THE BLUE TOWNHALL BUILDING; WHILE IT IS IMPOSINGLY STANDING AT ITS FRONT, LURKS THE FILTHY SITE OF NEGLECT IN THIS TOWN ASPIRING TO BE A CITY.<br />
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At present; the May festivities is at its center stage in the stadium. The Carnival has already setup its Bingos, rides and various gimmicks in the vicinity of Ilagan's most hazardous place.<br />
People will come for good time and pleasure.<br />
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Little did they know... they are courting disaster.</b><br />
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PEACE!raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-26537750364148313972011-04-25T17:58:00.000-07:002011-04-25T17:58:10.450-07:00I COULD HARDLY BELIEVE FLOWERS ARE NOW GROWING IN MY BACKYARD<b>It has been almost five years since I overlooked and ignored this very place where I once spent 16 years of family life. When I left for a job in Manila in 2007, hardly I noticed the sorry state of my backyard where thick grasses had replaced the colorful ornamentals that have once earned the awe and admiration of visitors.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pljrnG-cC9E/TbYV7BojZSI/AAAAAAAAAP0/jH5AIFgoNic/s1600/IMG_4434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pljrnG-cC9E/TbYV7BojZSI/AAAAAAAAAP0/jH5AIFgoNic/s400/IMG_4434.JPG" /></a></div>Months earlier then; I have been sleeping beside a bottle of Blue Gin to elude my guilt of losing my family who has left for Europe. Their departure was the ultimate response of my wife to end what she called a turbulent relationship. <br />
From thereon; I have always tried to restore my complacence. But even when I tried to change the color of the living room's wall or to rearrange the furnitures into different position; the feel of a home I can never more redeem from the house.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7dPCt7EbQQ/TbYWcXHjGYI/AAAAAAAAAP8/aFgZerBLMLg/s1600/IMG_4437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i7dPCt7EbQQ/TbYWcXHjGYI/AAAAAAAAAP8/aFgZerBLMLg/s400/IMG_4437.JPG" /></a></div>I was given a chance to start anew in the city and had my depression overcome by my affection for the work I was given. It was far from my Job of apparently courting enemies than friends; in the city however- it was the other way around. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3jB3qAxkir0/TbYWxC7h_CI/AAAAAAAAAQE/yTd2MtTe-_U/s1600/IMG_4435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3jB3qAxkir0/TbYWxC7h_CI/AAAAAAAAAQE/yTd2MtTe-_U/s400/IMG_4435.JPG" /></a></div>On weekdays I mingle with the city peasants handling the livelihood programs of the Congressman of Pasay City. On weekends; I manage the feeding program for street children with the Parishes of the same city. Funny; I had the room to enjoy my vices on thoughts that I was finally free. My sudden change of heart was perhaps spontaneous; It was not the kind of satisfaction I have been longing for.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rDsSRirHSXU/TbYXh8l3GxI/AAAAAAAAAQM/IQRm9rxAibA/s1600/IMG_4439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rDsSRirHSXU/TbYXh8l3GxI/AAAAAAAAAQM/IQRm9rxAibA/s400/IMG_4439.JPG" /></a></div>You would not believe that I shed tears when the time finally came I was already at the end of the line. My work has ceased; I have to leave the city, my friends, my room and my home which has sheltered me from the long lost years of loneliness. But I was already a different person then; I have to face life and move on without drowning my sorrows with Blue Gin like I did before.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RUH73OhANbg/TbYX1bT1ZII/AAAAAAAAAQU/oEFHe1BPq5U/s1600/IMG_4441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RUH73OhANbg/TbYX1bT1ZII/AAAAAAAAAQU/oEFHe1BPq5U/s400/IMG_4441.JPG" /></a></div>I went back to Ilagan to a place I feel downtrodden. Worst; I witnessed how the Super typhoon destroyed the house and its immediate vicinity. After a storm comes the sun they say; as I was passing my time thinking of any possible employment, my cellphone rang and the Editor of my current newspaper told me to stay in this devastated town and send stories of the ongoing events after the onslaught.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rtIcMPvh_K4/TbYYGFUSnuI/AAAAAAAAAQc/y5UatucTN9A/s1600/IMG_4442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rtIcMPvh_K4/TbYYGFUSnuI/AAAAAAAAAQc/y5UatucTN9A/s400/IMG_4442.JPG" /></a></div>I was back to my former Job that I once swore I would never get it back; perhaps destiny has something stored for me. I learned to appreciate life, new challenges, new friends. It is all in the matter of accepting it. <br />
It is now that I feel the beauty of life - This time I could hardly believe that flowers are growing in my backyard.</b> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TwODK8TeTr4/TbYYbKdk6vI/AAAAAAAAAQk/QNLVBjrxp6c/s1600/IMG_4443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TwODK8TeTr4/TbYYbKdk6vI/AAAAAAAAAQk/QNLVBjrxp6c/s400/IMG_4443.JPG" /></a></div>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-84671686450869888642011-04-22T20:52:00.000-07:002011-04-22T20:52:19.237-07:00SEMANA SANTA 2011, LOOKING FOR THE SIGNS OF LENT<b>PUNTA, Aparri, Cagayan- Life goes on normal here at the tip of Luzon island where the China sea and the Pacific Ocean meets. A handful commercial stores were closed in the observance of Maundy Thursday. Other than the hot 34 to 36 degree temperature recorded in the province; no other signs give a bit of impression that it is Holy Week.<br />
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BARANGAY PUNTA, A QUIET FISHING VILLAGE IN THE NORTHERNMOST TIP OF LUZON ISLAND IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF APARRI, CAGAYAN.<br />
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Thirty five years ago, I use to hear the traditional “Pabasa” in every corner of Ilagan and in my grandparents' place in Cabagan so as in Tuguegarao, Cagayan. The same tradition is known here as “Pasyon” narrating the passion of Jesus Christ prior to his crucifixion and eventual resurrection sung for days and nights during the holy week.<br />
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HOLY FRIDAY PROCESSION IN ILAGAN, ISABELA<br />
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A local radio station in Cauayan city was commercializing the topic of the waning tradition asking texters to send in their views for discussion. Sadly, its morning anchor; apparently ignorant of the topic read in haste text feedbacks 10 minutes before the end of his show. Worst, he read stupid text queries pertinent to their ongoing raffle draw, amid the pressing topic.<br />
Greetings and the sharing of your thoughts over their airlanes are no longer free as it was before. One should send it through text to their exclusive text portal where your two-peso text message are accumulated as their network share of the income.<br />
It was totally disastrous for an age-old culture and tradition ending up into such commercialized scheme instead of being discussed intelligently to educate the uninformed. <br />
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THE FAMOUS MAGAPIT SUSPENSION BRIDGE IN LALLO, CAGAYAN. GATEWAY TO THE ILOCANDIA<br />
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Off to the 15th Century Church of Nueva Segovia<br />
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Packing my things; I am off to Lallo, Cagayan- site of the very first church erected in northern Luzon and Cagayan Valley's cradle of Christianity. <br />
Christianity was established in here in 1582 when Dominican Cristobal Salvatierra and the Augustinian Francisco Rodriguez accompanied by the Spanish troops under the command of Captain Juan Pablo Carreon initiated the first religious mission.<br />
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THE HISTORIC 15TH CENTURY CHURCH OF NUEVA SEGOVIA<br />
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Carreon was appointed first Governor or the Alcalde-Mayor of Cagayan Valley- one of the four first provinces (Alcadia) in Luzon. The other being Manila, Camarines and Ilocos. Carreon drove away Japanese pirates holding base in Cagayan shores after which established the Spanish settlement in Lallo where the religious also made their base. <br />
Lallo was renamed to Nueva Segovia and became the Capital of Cagayan and seat of the Diocese by that name. <br />
The Diocese of Nueva Segovia has jurisdiction over the entire Northern Luzon. Its first Bishop is Miguel de Buenavides who later became Archbishop of Manila and founder of the country's oldest educational institution- the University of Sto. Tomas. <br />
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Nueva Segovia was not only known as the seat of Christianity in Cagayan Valley but also the very first territory to be considered a City with 27,000 Christianized population. <br />
The territory of Nueva Segovia in 1588 has 50 private and royal encomiendas that pay regular tribute to the government, has a fort manned by 40 soldiers and an Augustinian monastery.<br />
I told myself perhaps I can find Filipino Lenten traditions still practiced in the place other than the usual Thursday noon mass, good Friday readings on the seven last words of Christ, the procession of the “Enteirro” (dead Chirst) and the Suday “Salubong” depicting the risen Christ meeting his mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary.<br />
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THE CONSTRUCTED STAGE FOR THE "SALUBONG" ON SUNDAY HAS OBLITERATED THE CENTURIES OLD WOODEN CROSS INFRONT THE CHURCH<br />
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Boarding a Bus bound for Vigan Ilocos Sur from Tuguegarao City; my next stop is Barangay Magapit; home of the famous suspension bridge leading the highway to Ilocos region in the west. I am heading north to Aparri and soon dropped to what they call “crossroad”- a junction in the place where one waits for a ride in all four directions. The other two is east to Sta. Ana, home of the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) and Port Irene and south is from where I came from in the Capital of Tuguegarao city.<br />
I found the usual beerhouse tunes heard from Videoke joints in the vicinity instead of the sorrowful rhythm of the “Pasyon.” Girls aged 18-24 working in the area in their summer outfit apparently had their lenten break too; they have just finished taking lunch when I asked where the waiting place of the local center-driven cycles (which is the famous counterpart of the “toot-toots” in Thailand). Instead, much sturdy multicabs that resembles the centerbikes took the line of the Magapit-Lallo route.<br />
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Nueva Segovia<br />
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Boarding down to the famous 15th century church of Nueva Segovia; the old heritage place was just beside the national highway. It was then that I realized that the historic church was very much accessible. The only reason why no one notices it is because the church's rear is the one facing the highway and its facade could be found in the community's interior facing Cagayan river.<br />
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THE REAR OF THE CHURCH IS FACING THE HIGHWAY<br />
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THE CHURCH'S MODERN DAY RENOVATED INTERIOR<br />
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THE SPANISH TIMES PULPIT WHERE "PADRE DAMASO" TELLS INDIOS WHAT TO AND WHAT NOT TO DO<br />
No signs of any lenten activities is seen from the town proper except for the constructed stage for the conduct of the traditional “Salubong” that has obliterated the centuries old wooden cross encased in glass infront of the church. “Hindi na uso ang mga pasyon at penitensiya ngayon” comments the man doing the electric wiring installed around the “salubong” stage made with board. If Nueva Vizcaya Bishop Ramon Villena is around; the man would get a tongue lashing lecture from the prelate. Villena expressed concern over our vanishing cultural practices concealed by intense commercialization. In one point, the latest news was about the plan to bastardize the traditional passion into rap version to suit the interest of the youth.<br />
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CENTURIES OLD BRICKS, MUTE WITNESS TO THIS HISTORIC TOWN<br />
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THE HISTORIC CHURCH IS ACTUALLY LOCATED IN THIS PLACE CALLED "KALABASA"<br />
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IN BIG MALLS IN THE CITY, THERE ARE "WATERLESS" URINALS, IN THIS QUIET HISTORIC CHURCH THERE IS A "WATERLESS" COMMUNAL TOILET- LITERALLY<br />
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THE OFFICIALS OF LALLO IS VOCAL IN SENDING PRESIDENT NOYNOY AQUINO'S STANCE IN POPULATION MANAGEMENT EVEN THOUGH TREATHENED WITH EXCOMMUNICATION CONVEYED IN THIS SIGN AT THE CHURCH'S VICINITY<br />
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At the community hall besides the church was a meeting of the local farmers' group concerning their venture. <br />
Still no trace of any cultural lenten practice.. a van on its way to the next town of Aparri has just stopped to unload passengers. I boarded in.<br />
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Aparri, the heat is on<br />
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Upon arriving at the town proper just as you cross the bridge is the silent public market. This is since the noisy fish vendors, dealers and stevedores are on a Lenten break. The fish section is at the immediate facade facing the main road as you can smell the stench of hoarded fish along “calle commercio.” No wonder, the famous air conditioned food chain across the street had flies. I could not imagine how it looked like four years ago when I saw its inauguration on a television news footage. Its customers lined up until fifteen meters outside the small food outlet of about eight to 10 tables.<br />
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APARRI DOWNTOWN SCENERY, MAUNDY THURSDAY<br />
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The heat was intense, 34 to 36 degrees celsius, disclosed the local Philippine Information Agency posted on its Facebook account. Michael Divina 29 told me I brought the sunshine. Two days earlier, it was raining cats and dogs.<br />
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A VINTAGE HOUSE IN APARRI'S RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT<br />
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“Maganda ang dating niyo sir; maganda ang araw” Michael, a criminology graduate said. He currently drives a tricycle for a living while he waits to pass the board exams and hopes to land a job with the Philippine National Police.<br />
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THE NEWLY RENOVATED ST. PETER THELMO CHURCH<br />
The parish is currently doing the finishing touches of their renovated church as Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Adelbert Barut gladly permitted me to feel free taking pictures. The Church is as huge as the Ilagan cathedral the way I see it from the outside. <br />
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APARRI PATRON, SAN PEDRO DE THELMO<br />
Aparri is celebrating their Patronal Fiesta on the 10th of May. The group of wandering fanfare conducting Bingo and other fiesta betting, rides and unusual people have just arrived installing their tent and makeshift stalls infront of the church. Still no trace of any traditional Lenten practices around.<br />
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LOCALS PREPARE THEIR DRIED STIFF FISH FOR MARKETING<br />
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Not far from the church is Petron's oil depot beside the sea. Michael suggested that we see the seaside of Barangay Punta where the Cagayan river meets the sea.<br />
Groups were having good time picnic in the sea. Three days ago; Tuguegarao Archbishop lamented most Christians are preoccupied more on planning their out of town shindig than finding the peace of reflection and retrospect.<br />
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Punta is a busy district where you find the locals drying their fish and selecting sizes of those already dried and stiff ones for market trading even on a Maundy Thursday. The same is with the Taiwanse funded magnetized sand quarrying in the shores of Punta whom Michael says, an object of intense protest of residents because of the environmental threat it poses to the community like erosion, siltation and the sudden surge of water during high tide. New People's Army rebels had earlier denounced the Taiwanese firm and had its facilities and equipments burned last year. <br />
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Nanang Seling a grandmother aged 65 said her townmate's indignation seem to have been a lone cry in the wilderness. The Political leadership in Aparri is like a private company, where the patriarch only hands down his position to his son, then wife then back to himself laments Nanang Seling. This is after consuming the election ban for running a fourth consecutive term in the same elective position.<br />
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APARRI FISHERMEN ON A LENTEN BREAK<br />
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The sun is going down; I have to wrap up and catch the last trip back to Tuguegarao city. <br />
I believe I found what I have been looking for.<br />
I saw the Passion of Christ in all the places I went through in one day. <br />
Our sufferings wrought by disregard, negligence, commercialism, exploitation, indifference, greed and arrogance were reflected in the situations I have encountered. <br />
The social circumstances I found were more sorrowful than looking at the scene of the blood letting flagellation or the marathon “Pasyon” I planned to see. <br />
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“Ang paghihirap natin ay hindi parusa kundi daan patungo sa pagbabago”- Ilagan Bishop Joseph Amangi Nacua, April 22 Lenten Message.</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-42011104453260417012011-04-18T00:55:00.000-07:002011-04-18T00:55:29.429-07:00ILAGAN: DEATH OF A TOWN, RISE OF A CITY<i>DESPITE THE REVOLUTIONARY TRANSFORMATION OF THE OUTSKIRTS INTO A NEW METROPOLIS; THE OLD POBLACION OF ISABELA'S CAPITAL TOWN IS TURNING INTO A GHOST TOWN<b></b></i><br />
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<b>ILAGAN upon sight of the outsiders is seen as a growing metropolis in the Heart of Cagayan Valley. Lately the establishment of two huge well-known Malls have ushered Isabela's Capital Town to a new image being an upcoming city following the endorsement of local officials to aspire for the second time a Cityhood Status. Its first attempt drew an upsetting and humiliating result when townsfolk outrightly rejected the Ilagan Cityhood Charter in a plebiscite conducted in 1998.<br />
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What could have been a revolutionary transformation of this said once sleepy quiet town may be cosmetic in the outside. For an oldtimer in this town; the “development” is just a mere transfer of the economic activities from the poblacion- which is five kilometers in the interior from the national highway, to the growing population alternative in the outskirts of adjacent barangays of Baligatan and Alibagu.<br />
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A NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BUILDING BUT ITS OWNER IS UNSURE OF WHAT TO PLACE INSIDE, HENCE HAD HIS INVESTMENT SLUMBER</i><br />
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The ongoing transfer of the metropolis has given birth to the few well known national investors to the perils of the old time small business owners. However; most residents see this economic shift as necessary and unavoidable -all to the name of progress.<br />
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<i>BUILDINGS UP FOR SALE ARE COMMON SIGHT IN A DYING DISTRICT LIKE THIS ONE</i><br />
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To trace history; the current event taking shape in the new image of Ilagan is no longer new. The town has already moved its bastion from the early Spanish era, to the American and Japanese occupation up to the martial law years.<br />
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<i>THE OLD VILLA THEATER THAT POSES FIRE AND DISASTER HAZARD STILL STOOD IN THE HEART OF THE POBLACION; THE LAST TIME I SAW A MOVIE IN THIS INTENSELY HOT MOVIEHOUSE WAS SOMETIME 1978.. BUHAY PA SI MARCOS, MAYOR PA SI BOY BINAG</i><br />
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The town was then called by its native Gaddang settlers as “Bolo” during the pre Spanish conquest era. It is one of the populous settlement during that period and site of the vast Tobacco plantation in the region making it one of the most important economic areas in northern Luzon.<br />
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THE SIDE OF A ONCE BUSY PUBLIC MARKET, TODAY ONE CAN PLAY BASKETBALL IN THE AREA ALL DAY AND ALL NIGHT LONG A POPULAR RESTAURANT USE TO DOMINATE THE STREET</i><br />
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The town of Bolo was founded by the Dominicans in 1619 in honor of St. Ferdinand. The old Bolo was situated in the western side of Cagayan river in what is known today as barangay Naguilian-Baculod. <br />
The cultural shock brought by the dominating social and economic regulations introduced by the Spanish authorities propelled the natives to dissent in the Mallig and Ilagan-Tumauini territories in what was known as the Gaddang Revolution. The natives abandoned their settlement after burning their church and houses until 1622 when the Spanish government pardoned and exempted them from paying tribute within three years.<br />
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<i>THE DEAD ILAGAN SUPERMARKET PROMISED BY THE ADMINISTRATION OF MAYOR JOSEMARIE DIAZ TO CONVERT INTO A MALL TO BRING BACK LIFE INTO THE OLD POBLACION, BUT WAIT.. WHERE WOULD THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT SECURE FUNDING FOR THE UNDERTAKING WHEN IN FACT HIS GOVERNMENT IS YET TO FULLFILL AN EARLIER LOAN IT SECURED FROM THE DBP PURPOSELY TO ERECT A TRANSPORT TERMINAL AND A GASOLINE STATION IN A LOT IT BOUGHT FROM A PRIVATE DEVELOPER IN BARANGAY ALIBAGU?</i><br />
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After the Gaddang revolt, the natives reestablished their settlement upon the efforts of Fr. Pedro Jimenez in 1678 on the east side of the river thereby giving the legendary name for Ilagan which is the reverse of the word “Nagali” meaning “transfer.” The Dominicans accepted Bolo as an ecclesiastical mission given the name San Fernando de Ilagan in honor of its Patron St. Ferdinand. <br />
On August 4, 1901 the American regime under the United States Philippine Commission has enacted the Provincial Government Act 210 that has reestablished Isabela and other provinces in the Philippines. Rafael Maramag, a former Municipal President (Mayor) of Ilagan was appointed first Governor. The act upheld in Ilagan as the provincial capital.<br />
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<i>ALREADY USELESS, THE DILAPITATED SUPERMARKET WHICH WAS PAID BY OUR FOREFATHERS WITH HARD EARNED TAXES FROM A LOCAL GOVERNMENT GRANT IT SECURED FROM THE LAND BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES IN THE 70S IS NOW A PICTURE OF UNWARRANTED FUND USE</i><br />
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In November 13 1925, Gaffud has approved a Resolution filed by all Municipal Presidents of the Isabela (the counterpart of the present-day Mayors' League) following a four-day convention. The resolution called for the erection of a monument in honor of National Hero Jose Rizal in the old Ilagan public plaza in barangay Bagumbayan.<br />
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WHAT USE TO BE A BUSY SITE DURING MARKET DAYS IS NOW AN IDEAL PALAY OR CORN GRAINS DRYING PAVEMENT INSIDE THE ILAGAN SUPERMARKET</i><br />
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It was also in the same year when illegal gambling activities are taking its toll on several police and municipal officials who faced charges before the provincial board.<br />
By the turn of the 1950s the a new Poblacion was located uphill from the old St. Ferdinand Church to barangay San Vicente; site of the current Municipal town hall.<br />
By the turn of another decade should cityhood pushes through; we may yet witness the birth of a new Ilagan metropolis- and the death of an old town.</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-30983945397045558822011-04-15T02:06:00.000-07:002011-04-15T02:06:23.650-07:00MY LENTEN RETROSPECTTWO FACES OF DEVELOPMENT: AGONY IN DISGUISE FOR ISABELINOS<br />
The passion of Jesus Christ in our Christian observance of the Lenten season is personified in the two faces of agony seen among Isabelinos; one from the remote mountains of the sierra madres and the other- in the highly urbanized proper of Cauayan city.<br />
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Two groups of people manipulated by greed, exploitation and tyranny are both threatened of economic dislocation from an impending scheme forced down to the throat of the settlers. <br />
“Para na kaming binigyan ng notice of eviction” meat vendor Abundo Andres 35 laments as he recalls being handed a letter distributed by the local government of Cauayan city. The letter was supposed to be a “good news” informing him and fellow vendors that the administration of City Mayor Benjamin Dy will initiate the improvement of the city market's meat section building. <br />
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However, the city government has to rescind their contract of occupancy and then relocate them somewhere else in order to give the administration a free hand in the construction of a “better and bigger” building. “After all, as former occupants, we will be given the priority and preference to be awarded the space we choose in the new structure,” Andres continued. But wait; Andres and his fellow vendors will have to sign a conformity of revoking their current contract that binded their existence in their stall they held for more than a decade. “It's an absolute insult; we are treated illiterates by these people eying our eviction from the place that has provided our families of a hard earned decent living to cope in this difficult times,” Andres grieves.<br />
The following month; the real motive behind their impending dislocation was heralded by the City administration's proud announcement of hosting the establishment of a new mall in Cauayan.<br />
It was ushered by a billion worth investment in the guise of developing Cauayan as a highly urbanized city in Cagayan Valley region. The neighboring capital of Ilagan has earlier inaugurated two huge malls to the envy of other cities in the region.<br />
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Savemore, a big time capitalist that controls the chain of Supermarkets nationwide wants to establish in Cauayan. Its capitalist wants the heart of the Cauayan City Public Market to build its formidable establishment to the detriment of thousands of vendors who are now sitting duck targets for economic dislocation. <br />
Susana Gatdula 33, a small grocery owner wept to hear that the city government plans to relocate her business in the outskirts near the boundary of the adjacent town of Cabatuan.<br />
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By late March; thousands of vendors and stall owners have trooped the highway to demonstrate their indignation of Mayor Dy's plans. It was the first in Cauayan that its people have taken up mass actions against the political scion that has dominated the city and Isabela for four decades.<br />
“Kami ang naglagay sa mga Dy, kami na rin ang mag-aalis,” the protesters cried.<br />
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Meanwhile; the sounds of roaring sawmills and chainsaws have finally stopped in the notorious logging hub of San Mariano. Serenity has finally dominated this mountain town minus the chirping of birds and crickets that were used to be hosted by trees in the surrounding vicinities of the foothills.<br />
“What's the use of President Aquino's logging ban; when the trees here have all gone?” questions Matildo Ramayan 52, a farmer tending his corn plantation in the municipality's logged over area.<br />
Ramayan and some 800 families some of them Aeta natives have shifted to farming since the denudation of the Sierramadres in their area. <br />
Middle aged Okles Manuel, a female aeta native who could not deter her age and birthdate because of illiteracy said their men gave up hunting as their primary subsistence. They all plant corn she added.<br />
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With their election to Congress in 2010 of a townmate- Board Member Ana Cristina Go; the settlers have rejoiced thinking of a better deal that could make their living better.<br />
A month later; the Congresswoman and Gov. Faustino Dy III happily announced San Mariano's consideration of the Green Futures Innovation Incorporated (GFII) for the establishment of a bio-ethanol plant. The plant aims to produce bio-fuel from sugarcane that enables economic and environmental friendly fuel combustion for its less pollutant emission. However, to make the plant moving, sugar cane must be planted first but where?<br />
The bone of contention emanated from the said point where settlers displaced by the logging halt should now surrender their position in order give way to the ideal 11,000 hectares sugarcane plantation needed by the GFII to keep their ball rolling.<br />
No one from the settlers responded to Provincial Administrator Noel Lopez' invitation to forged a memorandum of agreement with the GFII to shift from corn to sugarcane. However, their sugarcane product should be binded to the GFII's monolpoly.<br />
The scheme has never succeeded in Isabela since the Tobacco monopoly imposed during the Spanish era to the Cassava monopoly introduced by then Governor Faustino Dy Jr. that brought his political debacle in 2004 when he lost to a neophyte Grace Padaca.<br />
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Adding fuel to the settlers' misgivings of Congresswoman Go and Governor Dy's offer was the challenge made by Lopez. The provincial administrator sought the affected people to show their land titles and other documents proving their ownership of the land they are currently tilling otherwise they have no business staging indignation with the peasant group- Danggayan Dagiti Mannalon ti Isabela (DAGAMI).<br />
DAGAMI has convinced the settlers to fight for their position and is now giving the politicians a run for their dominance in the issue, again in the guise of progress.<br />
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Recently, 4th District Congressman informed this writer of an impending inclusion of a hardcore leader of DAGAMI as sectoral representative to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan endorsed by Malacanang. The Provincial Board has no recourse but to accept it.<br />
The trek of the peasants in the city of Cauayan and the settlers of San Mariano will come a long way like the path of Christ to calvary. Even the Lenten season over; their sacrifices linger unless their lone cry in the wilderness is heard.raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-14225209057162060362011-04-14T02:52:00.000-07:002011-04-14T02:52:24.853-07:00SALLY ORDINARIO VILLANUEVA 1978- 2011: FAREWELL TO A MOTHER<b>BARANGAY TUPAX, Jones, Isabela- The family of Sally Ordinario Villanueva has been emotionally shaken the past months and this trouble comes into conclusion as they bid her goodbye on her interment Thursday in this remote quiet mountain town.<br />
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Hilarion with his kids, getting condoled by relatives, neighbors and friends</i><br />
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As this developed Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero said he would vouch for the probe of authorities of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for complicity with the International Drug Ring that implicated Sally and two other Filipinos rather that putting the blame solely on their alleged “handlers”.<br />
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<i>Senator Chiz Escudero hits Ninoy Aquino International Airport Authorities for complicity with the International Drug Trade Syndicate: had the airport officials done their job, Sally and three others could have been arrested here</i><br />
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Sally's remains earlier spent two nights in their conjugal home in Habitat Homes in the adjacent Echague town. The emotional travail is tough for her family, especially to her children ages 12 and 10. Although shrouded with sorrow the children appeared steadfast on her final moments before she was interred at the Tupax Barrio cemetery.<br />
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<i>Sally's eldest dedicates a song to her on the last night of her wake in Barangay Tupax. Princess Joy remained steadfast and learned to be strong now that her mother's gone</i><br />
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Jones Councilor Elmer Juan said the Children's father Hilarion wanted his offspring to live quietly in the Villanueva family's ancestral house here. Juan, a cousin of Hilarion said the latter was badly moved since his wife was figured in the China drug bust more than three years ago. Sally was arrested in Xiamen on Christmas eve for possessing four kilos of heroine that eventually led to her conviction and execution last month.<br />
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<i>Neighbors, friends, relatives on Sally's last night</i><br />
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Juan said Hilarion only wanted to protect his children from censure in the community, hence their transfer to this isolated rugged Barangay since Sally's detention in 2008.<br />
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One of the Police security deployed by the Philippine National Police on Sally's wake</i><br />
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Despite this, Princess Joy said she remains proud of her mother who have tried to sacrifice herself to help their father rear them amid their impoverished living. “She is the best mother one can ever have, she always thinks of our condition in life. She doesn't want us to feel the hardship,” say Princes Joy. The eldest of two; Princess Joy during the necrological services has moved her Barriomates in her emotional response to the community's assistance helping them cope with the hard times that has befallen the family. <br />
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A relative creates a heralding sound by blowing a carabao's horn, a belief in Tupax to drive away evil spirits while Sally's casket is being brought out from the house</i><br />
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Councilor Juan said if the accusations against Sally of being a sinister Drug Trafficker were true; their family could have been living in a posh lifestyle. Hilarion, an irregular bus driver, could hardly pay the amortization of their loan-acquired housing unit in Echague the councilor added.<br />
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<i>Sally's younger sister Mylene with a white headband of mourning</i><br />
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From the town proper of Jones, the 28-seater conveyance which is actually a 4BA1-engined forward truck embodied in an large ordinary jeepney will not leave until its roof is filled with passengers. Moreover, it has to travel over five kilometers of rugged uphill, downhill and winding dusty terrain in the foothills of the Sierra Madres. The last trip of these kind of conveyances to barangay Tupax is up to 5:00 in the afternoon only.<br />
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The rugged graveled road to the remote and isolated mountain Barangay of Tupax</i><br />
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In this remote place where Hilarion wanted Princess Joy to stay in the next four years with her brother Lexbert . A community High School is located not far from the adjacent Municipality of Aglipay in Quirino Province. Princess Joy graduated elementary salututorian here last April 6.<br />
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<i>Sally's Granny with her wooden "Cobra" cane</i><br />
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Although they acknowledge the promise of “scholarships” from some government agencies and politicians; the offers did not seem an exclusive opportunity to the family knowing that public elementary and high school education are free.<br />
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<i>Hilarion: "Kids, Bid your Mom Goodbye"</i><br />
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Councilor Juan said what the family would prefer is a regular job for Hilarion to support his orphaned children at the moment.<br />
Meanwhile even as Sally's younger brother Jayson disclosed the slated preliminary investigation of alleged recruiter Tita Cacayan on April 18; Senator Escudero wants key officials of the NAIA be investigated for their apparent collusion with departing drug mules in the country's premier airport.<br />
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Sally's brother Jayson tells TV Journalist Kaye Imson of TV 5 "We'll gonna pin Sally's recruiter- Tita Cacayan</i><br />
Drug mules could not have been arrested in China had authorities of the NAIA are doing their job the Senator said. Escudero cited that NAIA's state of the Art detecting machines coupled with highly trained sniffing dogs are useless as long as Airport officials are in cahoots with the drug syndicate.<br />
Escudero who was a graduation exercises speaker at the Isabela State University in Cauayan City disclosed President Benigno Aquino III is seriously considering a revamp in the NAIA because of the incident.<br />
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</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-14417841649934199922011-04-10T21:59:00.000-07:002011-04-10T21:59:31.473-07:00SALLY'S HOMECOMING: WHEN TEARS ARE ALREADY SHED<b>Sally Ordinario Villanueva's loved ones have already exhausted their sorrow in their sojourn to China and during the arrival of her remains in Metro Manila. In her homecoming to her conjugal home, her widower Hilarion and children Princess Joy 12, Lexbert 10 and all other relatives have no more tears to shed.<br />
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Hilarion trying to shed tears upon sight of his wife's coffin brought out from the truck</i><br />
It is only Hilarion who appeared breaking down upon seeing the truck bearing his wife's remains being brought out. His two children remain unshaken.<br />
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Sally's casket carried by Barangay Tanods</i><br />
Sally's family vows to pin down her alleged recruiter and the West African Drug Syndicate which they blame had ushered her to the lethal injection chamber in China early this month.<br />
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<i>Sally Ordinario-Villanueva: Death by Lethal Injection</i><br />
Sally's father Peter Ordinario said he would immediately usher the prosecution of alleged recruiter – Tita Cacayan a townmate in Barangay Rizal, Alicia, Isabela. The National Bureau of Investigation however is yet to build a case against the latter whom they charged for “Large Scale Recruitment” despite the Ordinario-Villanuevas were the only complainants.<br />
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Neighbors' grief, conveyed in Manila Paper</i><br />
The elder Ordinario said the family is gathering information of the west African Drug syndicate and would press charges soon after Sally interment which is yet to be announced.<br />
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A feast day for Mediamen all over Sally's house for her homecoming coverage</i><br />
The Ordinarios disclosed that Sally's remains will stay for a two-days wake in the latter's conjugal residence in the Habitat Housing Subdivision in Barangay Gumbaoan, Echague, Isabela afterwhich the remains will be brought to her husband's hometown in the remote Barangay Tupax, Jones.<br />
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Sally's relatives prepare food for Policemen and Barangay Tanods who provided security during Sally's wake</i><br />
The Local Government have arranged a toilsome security and traffic rerouting in Echague at the expense of the local police, getting negative response from some “kababayans” who questioned the elaborate funeral itinerary for the executed Drug Mule. Under the revise penal code; executed felons are not allowed to pompous funeral and should be interred immediately. Regional Prosecutor Rommel Baligod said the law aims the prevent the cadaver for being used as a rallying point or make martyrs out of the dead at the detriment of the country's interest.<br />
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Representatives of the DSWD looking after Sally's orphans</i><br />
However Baligod and former Justice secretary Silvestre Bello III said that the law does not apply to the executed drug mule who was convicted and executed outside the Philippines.<br />
On the other hand, Sally's father and brother, Jason maintains her innocence in the drug trafficking case stating “Sally is a victim of the circumstance.”</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-72285230360408210222011-03-29T22:07:00.000-07:002011-03-29T22:07:07.278-07:00IT'S ALL OVER, SALLY'S DEAD<b>JONES, Isabela- For this quiet town of almost 50,000 population; the event of the execution of Kababayan Sally Ordinario-Villanueva 33 is an ordinary day like any other. This 2nd class municipality is her birthplace. <br />
In the doomed Filipina's family home in the remote barangay Tupax; the latter's children ages 12 and 10 were secretly moved to an undisclosed place in the adjacent Quirino province.<br />
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<i>The weeping Virgin of La Salette of Jones Parish in Jones, Isabela</i><br />
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“We want to spare the children from being interviewed by the media,” says a relative Edith Bueno. She added that the Villanueva children have already undergone traumatic experiences,”they hide whenever they hear vehicles parking nearby” Bueno complained.<br />
Princess Joy who will graduate salututorian this April 6 here earlier said she is dedicating her graduation from elementary to her mother. She hopes to be a lawyer someday.<br />
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<i>The quiet landscape of Jones Parish, mute witness to Sally's fate<br />
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Mayor Florante Raspado sent representatives of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office supposedly to mitigate the sufferings of the Villanueva siblings. The children's father- Hilarion who works as a driver for a bus plying the Isabela-Cagayan route is said to have secluded himself in Santiago city.<br />
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<i>The landmark of heroes, dedicated to the forefather's who waged blood and sweat for Liberty</i><br />
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In a media interview; Bueno said their family could not blame Hilarion for refusing to go with his in-laws to China to bid goodbye to his wife during the execution. “Alam namin na masakit para kay Hilarion ang sumama pa sa China at pagkatapos ay yaong pagbitay lang ng asawa ang kanyang mangyayari,” Bueno laments. She said Hilarion has always been drinking and crying as he repeatedly murmurs his wife's innocence.<br />
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<i>Centuries old tress, adorn the serene landscape of this quiet town</i><br />
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Whatever happens, Hilarion's decision still follows pertaining to the wake and funeral arrangement of his wife; Bueno said.<br />
“Wala na kaming magagawa kundi ipasa-Diyos at tanggapin na ang lahat, subalit darating ang panahon na lalabas din ang katotohanan,” She added.<br />
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The working hours of the Local Government commence with the usual daily “dancercsise” along the corridors at the Jones Municipal Hall. However, Conchita Sanchez who is private secretary of Mayor Raspado said the whole employees of the local government are very sad to hear of Villanueva's execution.<br />
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Parish Priest Arnold Sadya-as offered mass for Villanueva and her fellow condemned “kababayans”in the afternoon at the Holy Rosary parish here according to lay workers.</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-3420740896109515662011-03-28T02:00:00.000-07:002011-03-28T02:00:47.648-07:00WAITING FOR THE FATE OF SALLY ORDINARIO VILLANUEVA<b>ECHAGUE, Isabela- The Sangguniang Bayan has offered a minute of silence prior their regular session Monday to invoke the lord's intercession in the fate of “kababayan” Sally Ordinario- Villanueva and her fellow Filipinos condemned to death for drug trafficking in China.<br />
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<i>'No ones home.." neighbors tell whoever visits the Villanuevas in their residence in Habitat Homes, Barangay Gummaway in Echague town</i><br />
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Sally's 12 year old daughter Princess joy, the eldest of the brood of 2; has learned to accept the bitter truth and vowed to be a lawyer someday so she would have something people will look upon. The young Villanueva is reportedly graduating elementary this April 6. <br />
Councilor Jesus Babaran who moved the floor for the solemn instance later told STAR the Municipal council could do nothing at the moment but to pray for miracles. He said he and fellow councilors could not do any better but to extend financial help from their own pockets <br />
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<i>Sangguniang Bayan Member Jesus Babaran (center) and his peers in the Municipal Council: Going to shell out personal funds to help Sally's family</i><br />
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Congressman Giorgidi Aggabao, Isabela 4th District Congressman, said he feels sorry for the situation being helpless to save Villanueva and her fellow condemned Filipinos -all three from the lethal injection tomorrow. He however offered to assist Villanueva's family to shoulder the expatriation of Villanueva's remains should the execution pushes through.<br />
Echague Mayor Melinda Kiat said she has sought Villanueva's relatives to offer possible assistance she could extend. However, Kiat said she was instead informed that Villanueva was a resident of the adjacent Alicia town and not in her turf. “Wala kaming nagawa kasi hindi naman siya tagarito sa Echague,” the Mayor said when asked of any moves done by the local government to mitigate the sufferings of the family of the condemned kababayan. Kiat said the Villanueva's stayed in less than a month in a low-cost subdivision in her town prior to her arrest in Xiamen in 2008.<br />
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MAYOR MELINDA KIAT: <i>"I have sought people to seek for Sally's family for assistance"</i><br />
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On the contrary, Kiat's informants proved otherwise in a visit by the STAR at the Villanueva's residence at the Habitat Subdivision, a low cost housing project in Barangay Gumbawan,Echague. <br />
“There is no one in there,” according to neighbor Celia Sargado 41 saying the Villanuevas were not at home for weeks now. Sagrado herself is a former Overseas Filipina Worker who worked in Singapore during the late 1990s like Villanueva. She described the Villanueva's as a silent and peaceful family. She said she could not imagine that her best friend would be implicated to a dreaded international drug trade as a mule.<br />
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<i>Sally's neighbor, Celia Sagrado: a former OFW in Singapore herself: "the Villanuevas are peaceful neighbors"</i><br />
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Sally's husband, Hilarion is a bus driver of an ordinary bus plying the Isabela-Cagayan route; Sagrado said. <br />
“We are extremely sad in the neighborhood about Sally's fate, all we can do is to offer her our prayers,” Sargado told STAR, she refuted Kiat's informants that Villanueva did not stayed long in the remote Echague subdivision. Habitat housing can be reached by passing through the jurisdiction of Alicia town a kilometer away from the Echague Municipal town hall.<br />
“The Villanuevas have been staying here since 2001,” according to Sagrado contrary to mayor Kiat's claim that the family stayed in the place for less than a month and moved back to the Sally's hometown of the Ordinarios in Barangay Tupax, Jones. </b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-57793528423630981052011-03-28T01:18:00.000-07:002011-03-28T01:18:02.586-07:00HACIENDA SAN ANTONIO, A JOURNEY BACK IN TIME<b>HACIENDA SAN ANTONIO, Ilagan- Walking through the centuries old acacias lined along the path to the historic administration house of the first ever business empire in the Philippines -the Companias General de Tobaccos de Filipinas or simply “Tabacalera”; is like going back in time when you have to be cautious being accosted by the dreaded Guardia Civil in the Spanish era for loitering during working hours.<br />
In fact, 40 years ago during the Marcos regime; this hacienda has been a place marred by violence and human rights violations having been occupied by a crony business until then Governor Faustino Dy Sr., lobbied Malacanang to cause the distribution of this vast track of Spanish estate to the native tenants through the agrarian reform program of the government.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OkQ0TdlvZfE/TZA-ZfTQYjI/AAAAAAAAAFE/rEZJuEoFyt4/s1600/IMG_4065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OkQ0TdlvZfE/TZA-ZfTQYjI/AAAAAAAAAFE/rEZJuEoFyt4/s400/IMG_4065.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<i>An old bell that speaks of its age; once a loud herald is now a mute witness to the changing times in the former hacienda</i><br />
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At present, the issue of the day lies whether this remote and former Spanish Tobacco Hacienda should likewise vouch for Cityhood of this capital town being far-flung from the amenities of an urbanized poblacion area.<br />
The man in charge here- Vice Mayor Vedasto “Ka Piding” Villanueva calls the shot whether all 30 barangays under the jurisdiction of this former hacienda rally to the second time since cityhood proponents lost their bid in the first plebiscite held in 1998.<br />
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Villanueva, a fierce and respected old timer who lives in the heart of the Hacienda (Barangay Centro San Antonio) at the moment says he is a team player and would vouch to support the cityhood bid.<br />
“Once this guy is pissed off,” according to local Businessman John Reniedo; Villanueva could be seeking to severe his turf and form a new town instead. If the case pushes, the officialdom of Ilagan led by a hot-headed Mayor Josemarie Diaz is like riding on a sinking boat.<br />
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However, the humble Vice Mayor commented that this hacienda realm does not really contribute much to the present P206 million annual revenues it profits to qualify into cityhood. “Maraming taga rito ang hanggang sa ngayon defiant magbayad ng almeyar dahil nasanay sila sa mga indoctrination ng mga NPA nung martial law,”(Many people here are still defiant to comply in paying their real estate taxes since most people here still have martial law hangovers brought by the indoctrination of the NPAs), Villanueva commented.<br />
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<i>Centuries old Acacias, the silent witness to the past events that transpired in this Haciendas from the Tyrant Spanish times to the Terroristic Martial law regime to the Logging Frenzy in the 21st Century. The Acacias here begin to bloom its leaves after being blown by typhoon Juan winds late 2010.<br />
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Tabacalera first established its base in the former Capital of Cagayan valley then known as Nueva Segovia in Lallo, Cagayan. It is where the industry played the vital role in the economic development of the Alcadia (Then comprises the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino and Nueva Vizcaya as a whole). <br />
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<i>An antique paper binder left in the open beneath the front stairs and exposed to entrepreneuring thieves who would make use of its copper parts for sale to scrap metal buyers<br />
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In 1895, Tabacalera expanded and opened its factory – the “La Flor de Isabela” in what is known before as San Fernando de Ilagan. It acquired properties in what is known as the Haciendas San Antonio, Sta. Isabel (Ilagan) and Hacienda San Luis (Cauayan). The business empire owned by Antonio Lopez-the first Marquis of Comillas; flourished as it also established the Tabacalera Insurance Company and its own shipping business- the Compania Trans-atlantica.<br />
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The company enjoyed privileges from the Spanish Monarch until the outset of the Philippine revolution in 1898. Tabacalera lost its special status with the entry of the American occupation where the company has to adjust and compete with other world market players in the industry.<br />
At present the old Tabacalera administration house and its immediate backyard have been sold by its Spanish stewards to the Parish of Ilagan and is now being used as a staff house to priests, lay workers and church leaders.</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-50517787520595227932011-03-25T00:05:00.000-07:002011-03-25T00:05:37.504-07:00Magat High Dam has rising water level this summer<b></b>MAGAT HIGH DAM, Ramon, Isabela- What was 40 meters higher today is 40 meters lower on the same period last year.<br />
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Atty. Mike Josillos, Corporate Secretary of the Aboitiz Power Corporation; is referring to the Magat Dam Hydro power plant here. Aboitiz power is now managing this dam touted as the largest in southeast Asia.<br />
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Josillos attributed the rising water level to the inflow of scattered rains brought by the wet summer. The water level measured 180 meters height compared to the 140 meter level it registered in the same month last year. <br />
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Josillos said since November 2009; the rains have stopped due to the La Nina havoc triggering the exposure of several “islet” in the Magat reservoir due to the critical low water level. As a result, other than the barren agricultural soil; the La Nina calamity effect massive fishkill in fish cages maintained in the reservoir's realm. He said.<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RB0J4LksqsI/TYw9Ptgz-hI/AAAAAAAAAD0/Y4Zn029amV0/s1600/IMG_4028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RB0J4LksqsI/TYw9Ptgz-hI/AAAAAAAAAD0/Y4Zn029amV0/s400/IMG_4028.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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The Homeless Journalist with Bombo Radyo DZNC Anchorman Neil Galaponraymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-60684519939692233102011-03-24T20:32:00.000-07:002011-03-24T20:32:35.055-07:00Alternative livelihood for a mining dependent village<b>DIDIPIO VALLEY, Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya- Settlers here have been encouraged to venture in agriculture to provide an alternative to the mining industry here.<br />
Librado Villamayor, Community Relations Officer of the New Zealand-based Oceana Gold Mining Company operating in this remote village said the move will provide other means of industry in this realm of central Sierra Madre wilderness.<br />
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The Village population has almost doubled since the 2007 census from almost 3,000 to nearly 6,000 settlers, mostly from nearby towns and villages since the strike of the Gold Rush early last year.<br />
Villamayor said the company has supplied local farmers with fertilizers and farm implements to include multi-purposed engine sets, grass cutters, portable sprayers and Lakatan variety banana plants for the community's proposed plantation site here.<br />
He said the grant is part of the social development commitment of the company to uplift the living conditions of the villagers. The Company after establishing the electrification of the village is currently improving the water system.<br />
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Oceanagold has been allowed by President Benigo Aquino III despite serious opposition from anti-mining groups in the urban centers. “In large-scale mining, you have more or less an idea of its effect on the environment. They have the capacity to pay for the clean-up among other things,” Aquino explained. The President said the mining permitees with the concurrence of the communities affected are held liable if damage has been done to warrant the revocation of the mining permit.<br />
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“We do not want the villagers to be solely dependent on mining operations,” Villamayor said stating the company is also improving the road networks and facilities in the community to further introduce this village to tourism industry for its numerous waterfalls all over the area.</b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-37498064762565492662011-03-24T00:25:00.000-07:002011-03-24T00:25:11.727-07:00GROWING COMMUNITY IN THE MINING HUB<b>Barangay Chairman Erenio Bobola however said the company is religiously complying with the community development aspect of its commitment in order to cope with the fast phase development of his village.<br />
The handful huts seen in the terrain of the village three years ago has grown into several communities of newly constructed dwellings sporting gleaming galvanized roofs. Bobola said the company has been subsidizing the elementary and secondary school maintenance, salaries of teachers and day-care programs in his turf. Over the weekend; the company has turned over computer sets and other instructional materials to the local school he added.</b><br />
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<i>The overview of the fast developing village of Didipio once a realm of a handfull of native huts.<br />
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<b>The entry of electricity, water impounding systems drawing source from several mountain springs have significantly improved the lifestyfle of this dominantly ethnic Ifugao village. Farmer Luis Buyayo in his senior years said he got a text message from the company informing him of the award of farm implements to the farming community consisting of multi-purpose engines, knapsack sprayers, fertilizers and “Lakatan” variety banana plants. The company is assisting the local banana plantation venture. <br />
Instead of gongs and the tribal Tadek performed by the natives as welcome and gratitude during special occasions; high school girls who view latest dance craze via satellite cable television performed a “Pussycat Dolls” number as the community's way of saying “thank you” during the turnover of program over the week.<br />
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Native Ifugao Native Children</i><br />
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<i>Children play at the backdrop of the mountain of gold.<br />
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A<i> mini waterfalls, one of the breathtaking roadside attractions going to Didipio; a sitio called "waterfalls"</i><br />
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My host in Kasibu- Ms. "MJ" Josueraymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1331010992733804556.post-45057680515504309032011-03-23T19:08:00.001-07:002011-03-23T23:56:17.993-07:00GOLDRUSH IN KASIBU, NUEVA VIZCAYA<b>DIDIPIO VALLEY, KASIBU, Nueva Viscaya - Until the tragic accident of a dump truck which fell into a deep ravine in Kayapa town that killed five last March 17, the word “Luyot” became a byword for the ongoing Gold rush discovered in this obscured sitio in the central Sierra Madre mountain ranges known hub of fierce head hunters in the early days. <br />
Local radio stations have reported the gruesome accident as transporting a hot cargo of “Luyot” unknown to most listeners that even the newscaster did not understand its meaning. They merely quoted the Police blotter report transmitted by the local police in Kayapa.<br />
Luyot is an Ifugao word for mine tailings. These tailings which appears to be ordinary soil rake as much as 50 to 80 pesos per kilo depending on the quality of the mining waste. Natives said buyers, mostly Koreans; procure these seemingly insignificant debris by the tons. A dump truck filled of the said mining waste would cost at least P50,000.<br />
The ill fated truck carried tons of “Luyot” that skidded in the steep mountain side of the infant Kasibu-Benguet road- a newly developed access road to Baguio city which is only four hours travel from the Maharlika highway in Aritao town. </b><br />
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<i>The ill fated truck, five people died here.. mostly from Cabarroguis, Qurino. Photo by Victor Martin</i><br />
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<b>The cargo was traced here; a small valley in the central Sierra Madre which is itself isolated by mountains from its mother town of Kasibu. It takes about four hours of straight drive from the capital of Bayombong traversing the provinces of Isabela and Quirino only to reenter the forested jurisdiction of Nueva Vizcaya.<br />
“Residents gather Luyot as much as they want, it requires no mining permit but an equivalent tribute to the Provincial Government when transported outside,” says Simplicia Annayon; Community Relations Supervisor of the New Zealand-based Oceanagold Mining Company which is dumping the precious mine waste.<br />
She said locals who own “ball mill” in their backyard extracts gold and copper ore leftovers from the previous processing by the mining company. “There are still leftover ore not seen by the naked eye which is usually 50 percent of the original extraction,” Annanayon said. The locals sell the extracted high grade gold at an average 1,500 per gram.</b><br />
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<i>Locals in the mining Village of Didipio are now up to date with the latest events and trends in the urban world having installed and subscribed their own satellite cable television. Villagers attributed their improved lifestyle with the entry of mining operations of New Zealand based Oceanagold mining company which established road, electricity and water system in the obscured village once dreaded for its fierce head-hunting natives in the past.</i><br />
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<b>The process is less taxing than gold panning in Mount Diwalwal in the south specially when the “Magluluyots” smuggle the raw materials through sinister means. Last year Police Chief Insp. Maciste Serrano, Kasibu chief of police said the 60 sacks of "Luyot" were seized in a checkpoint manned by local environment enforcers and his men. <br />
Oceanagold is one of two mining permitees operating in the province and employs 70 percent of the village residents. From the latest census in 2007, Didipio's population has doubled to date. </b>raymund catindighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14281025073457690858noreply@blogger.com0