Siquijor News

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Siquijor Realty

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Siquijor - Archived News

Contents

398 students avail SPES

by Rizalie A. Calibo


SIQUIJOR, May 12 (PIA)— The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Siquijor announced that 398 of the 800 student-applicants availed of its Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) with 20 days of service.

DOLE Information Officer Jerome Alam said that the 398 students came from the six towns of Siquijor.

Two hundred student-applicants were hired at the provincial government, 41 at the local government unit (LGU) of San Juan, 79 each at the LGUs of Siuqijor and Larena.

Alam said the daily wage rate of the SPES vary depending on the existing rate of the local government units.

Those employed at the provincial government and LGU-Larena will have a daily rate of P200 per student.

The SPES in LGU-San Juan will enjoy a daily rate of P202, while those of LGU-Siquijor, P178.

SPES is mandated under Republic Act No. 7323 otherwise known as an act to help poor but deserving students pursue their education by encouraging their employment during summer or even on Christmas vacation.

This allows the students to save money from their salaries that can be used for their school expenses.

The Siquijor Association of Public Employment Services Office (PESO) Managers support the SPES program, Alam also said. (mbcn/RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor w/ reports from C. Manginsay/St reporter)






PAEL KO’S ECHAVEZ, WINS PBF BELT IN SIQUIJOR

by Rene Bonsubre, Jr.


LAZI,SIQUIJOR- Rajah Renoel Pael had trouble figuring out Roger Echavez’ awkward southpaw style early in the fight. The action turned up a notch in the third round as both boxers traded wild swings. In the 4th, Pael fired a sharp one-two combo that sent Echavez down.

Echavez got up and fought back but he looked spent at the end of the sixth. In the seventh round, a crisp right hook from Pael drove Echavez into the canvas flat on his back. Referee Ben Necesario signalled the end at the 57 second mark.

Pael fought under the banner of the Princesa Bulakna Resort of Siquijor. He won the flyweight division in the ‘Buhay Boksingero’ boxing series held last year by GMA TV.

It was decided by the PBF and RWS Promotions earlier this week that Pael and Echavez would be fighting for the Philippine Boxing Federation (PBF) bantamweight belt and the fight between Fernando Ocon and Aroel Romasasa held in San Fernando,Cebu would be for the PBF flyweight title. Ocon beat Romasasa by 9th round TKO on the same night.

For the supporting bouts in Lazi:

Rogen Flores knocked Roldan Malinao down thrice (1st, 3rd and 4th rounds) and won by TKO at 27 seconds of the fourth canto. Referee Nick Banal stopped the contest when Malinao collapsed after receiving a fusillade of body punches.

Alvin Arresgado gave his hometown Siquijor fans another reason to cheer when he won by TKO in the 3rd round over Ian Panganiban of Siaton, Neg. Oriental. Panganiban went down in the opening round and in the third, Arresgado threw a stunning right straight that made Panganiban spit out his mouthpiece as he staggered prompting Referee Ben Necesario to halt the bout at 2:40 of the round.

There were two exhibition bouts between Bryan Samson of Siquijor vs. Gerry Castroverde of the RSW Gym and TI Yamagata Masashi of Japan vs Ardie Boyose of the TI Cebu Stable. The event was opened by four amateur bouts featuring amateur boxers from Siquijor.

The boxing promotion was held Thursday night and sponsored by the local government of Lazi and the provincial government of Siquijor. The pro bouts were supervised by Celso Miranda of GAB-Cebu.

Pael vs Echavez in Siquijor

by Correspondent Rene Bonsubre Jr.


LAZI, SIQUIJOR — Rajah Renoel Pael and Roger Echavez both weighed in at 111.8 lbs during yesterday’s official weigh-in at the Siquijor Provincial Capitol paving the way for their 10-round main event fight tonight in Lazi, Siquijor. They will dispute the Philippine Boxing Federation belt. Pael (7W-0L-1D, 3 KOs) is the Buhay Boksingero 2011 flyweight division winner. Echavez (7W-7L-1D, 4 KOs) lost in his attempt last year to win the GAB version of the Philippine minimumweight title to Merlito Sabillo by 7th round TKO. Set to appear on the undercards are battle scarred Rogen Flores (118.5 lbs) vs. Roldan Malinao (116.2 lbs) and Alvin Arresgado (118.2 lbs) vs. Ian Panganiban (120.8 lbs). There will be two exhibition fights pitting Japanese boxer TI Yamagata Masashi Tada vs. Ardie Boyosi of the TI Cebu stable of Mandaue City and Bryan Samson of Siquijor vs. Gerry Castroverde of the RWS Gym. The weigh-in was supervised by Celso Miranda of the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) of Cebu. Meanwhile the GAB received word that the Phil. light flyweight title bout between Jerson Mancio and challenger Charlie Cabilla has been moved from the SRP grounds to the Mandaue City Plaza still on May 15.

2 deacons ordained

by MARICAR ARANAS


Seminarians Harnel Paulin from Maria, Siquijor, and Archie Toroy, from Bais City, Negros Oriental, were ordained as deacons Sunday at the Saint Catherine of Alexandria Parish Church in Dumaguete City.

Archbishop John Du and members of the clergy in the Diocese of Dumaguete witnessed the ceremony held before Du left for Palo, Leyte, yesterday.

The two deacons, who will be assigned to the Manalongon Parish in Siaton town, expressed their gratitude to the Dumaguete clergy and the community.

In his homily, Du thanked the families of the deacons for the support and inspiration during their formative years as seminarians. He said prayers and encouragement from the family and the community, are very important because they will help strengthen the faith and motivation of the deacons.

Du added that he was happy to ordain the two before leaving the Diocese, as Paulin and Toroy were part of the batch of seminarians at Saint Joseph Seminary College, when he arrived in Dumaguete in 2001.

The Archbishop said priesthood is a gift that entails responsibility. “May they become the inspiration and role models of young seminarians in their desire to become priests”, Du added.

He said the Roman Catholic Church is in need of more priests. At present, the Diocese of Dumaguete has 85 priests.

Du said the two deacons will be ordained as priests as soon as a new bishop is assigned to Dumaguete.*MA

DA sets P35-M fund for Negros Oriental, Siquijor

by Louella D. Desiderio


MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Agriculture (DA) is funding various projects worth P35 million in Negros Oriental and Siquijor to boost agricultural output in those provinces.

In a statement, the DA said the assistance was announced by Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala during his recent visit to the two provinces.

The assistance to be provided in Siquijor includes a barangay food terminal to be put up in the town of San Juan, as well as livelihood projects to be undertaken by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.

In Negros Oriental, the DA is funding irrigation projects and providing hand tractors and draft animals with implements.

For both provinces, the department is providing farm and fishery equipment and inputs aimed at increasing productivity and incomes.

The farm machinery and equipment include hand tractors, village-type corn dryers, multi-purpose dryers, palay shed and cassava graters.

In line with the assistance being provided to both provinces, Alcala said the DA is seeking a $300 million loan from the World Bank to fund a program that will support small farming and fishing communities in Southern Luzon and Central Visayas.

The program called Central Philippines Rural Development Program (CPRDP) will be patterned after the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP), which has received funding from the World Bank.

Unlike the MRDP though which follows a 50-40-10 counterpart arrangement from the World Bank, the DA and local government units (LGU), respectively, the CPRDP is proposed to have an 80-20 counterpart arrangement, wherein the department and LGUs will each shoulder 10 percent of the project cost and the balance will come from the program funds.

NORSU grad 10th in electricians exam

by RENE GENOVE


Two graduates of the Negros Oriental State University have passed the Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination given in Manila recently, giving the school a passing rate of 67 percent.

The passers are Mario Sim Erosedo, of Hinobaan, Negros Occidental, and Reinhold Jek Ysic Abing, of San Juan, Siquijor. The two also hurdled the Registered Master Electrician Examination, with Erosedo placing 10th with a rating of 81 percent.

Dr. Henry Sojor, NORSU president, said the national passing percentage for EELE is 43.87 percent.

Meanwhile, a graduate of Information Technology of Silliman University was adjudged one of Ten Outstanding Students of Region 7, a press release from the school said.

Athena Gene Duran was selected with nine others from the 20 regional finalists in the search held at the Negros Oriental Convention Center, on May 1.

She is the chair of the Sangguniang Kabataan of Dumaguete, graduated cum laude, and was the recipient of the University Leadership Award, the press release added.*RG





PBF Title fight in Siquijor May 10

by PhilBoxing.com


The Philippine Boxing Federation flyweight belt will be at stake when Rajah Renoel Pael fights Roger Echavez in the ten round main event in Lazi, Siquijor. Pael (7W-0L-1D, 3 KO’s) is the Buhay Boksingero 2011 flyweight division winner. Last April 22, he stopped Joseph Alteza in one round at the Mactan Shrine. Echavez (7W-7L-1D, 4 KO’s) lost in his attempt last year to win the GAB version of the Philippine minimumweight title to Merlito Sabillo by 7th round TKO.

Set to appear on the undercards are Lobert Bayo vs Roldan Malinao (8 rounds), Alvin Aresgado vs Hietler Marinon (4 rounds) and Bryan Samson vs Crispin Salvador (4 rounds).

DA allots P35M for agri, fishery projects in Siquijor, Negros Oriental

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


QUEZON CITY, May 2 (PIA) -- Long neglected and skipped over, Siquijor will finally have its day as P35 million worth of agricultural and fishery projects are poured in this island province and in Negros Oriental.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) extended agricultural assistance to these two provinces following the visit and dialogue with Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala.

In a statement posted on its website, the DA said that the visit is part of the agency’s efforts in bringing speedy assistance to small farmers and fisher folks as directed to all cabinet secretaries by President Benigno S. Aquino III.

“Ako po ay narito dahil ipinag-utos ng ating Pangulo na iparamdam sa inyong lahat na may gobyernong handang tumulong sa inyo,” Alcala said. (I am here because the President instructed me personally to bring to you the services of the government.)

In Siquijor, Alcala turned-over projects including a barangay food terminal to be established in the town of San Juan and various livelihood projects under the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), amounting to P4.78 million.

On the other hand, Negros Oriental received a total of P3.5 million-worth of irrigation projects, hand tractor, and draft animals with farm implements.

In all, the two provinces received close to P35 million-worth of agricultural and fishery projects, farm and fishery equipment, and inputs that were awarded to several farmers’ groups, irrigators’ associations, and local government units to increase their productivity and incomes.

The farm machinery and equipment include hand tractors, village-type corn dryers, multi-purpose dryers, palay shed, and cassava graters.

Alcala also raffled off farm and fishery implement during the forum that include motorized bancas, knapsack sprayers, rice and corn seeds, fish nets, and laminated sacks, among others.

Likewise, he met with the local farmers and fishers to discuss concerns in the agriculture and fishery sector, and come up with sustainable solutions to address the problems.

Among the issues raised, specifically in Siquijor, is the absence of a double A slaughterhouse and the unavailability of sea transport to ferry livestock animals to markets in Cebu and nearby provinces.

For his part, Siquijor Governor Orlando A. Fua Jr. said their concerns need to be addressed as the province continues to increase its livestock production and farmers do not have the means to sell their produce to markets outside of the province.

Related to this, Secretary Alcala said the DA will propose to the World Bank (WB) a Central Philippines Rural Development Program (CPRDP) that aims to empower small farming and fishing communities, and respective LGUs by providing them needed agri-fishery infrastructure, livelihood and capacity-building projects, and other support services. The Program is patterned after the WB-funded Mindanao Rural Development Program.

Unlike the Mindanao Program which follows a 50-40-10 counterparting scheme from WB, DA, and the LGUs, respectively, the Agriculture Department, through the CPRDP proposes to adopt an 80-20 scheme, where the DA and the LGUs will each shoulder 10% of the project cost, and the balance by the program funds.

Alcala said the major projects that would be covered under the CPRDP are construction of farm-to-market roads, ports, irrigation and potable water systems, and other post-harvest and marketing facilities.

“And so I urge you to register under the CPRDP and let the World Bank know that you are interested to be part of the program,” he urged Governor Fua and other Siquijor local government officials. (DA/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)






7T jobs for unemployed grads

by newsinfo.inquirer.net


The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas (DSWD-7) announced its summer job openings for unemployed college graduates and graduates of vocational courses. DSWD-7 is accepting job applications for its expanded government internship program (GIP). The expanded GIP aims to strengthen youth participation in nation building, expose them to government service and contribute to their economic well-being. A total of 7,551 interns are needed to fill the slots available. Those hired will receive a minimum wage per day for 52 days. Qualified applicants will be assigned in the DSWD-7 field offices and centers and institutions and communities covered by this welfare agency. They will perform office work and assist in the implementation of the programs and projects of the agency. Some of them will be assigned to field work in local government units (LGUs) where DSWD projects are being implemented. Applicants from the provinces of Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental and Siquijor, aged 18 to 30 years old, may submit an application letter and resume with photo copy of their birth certificates to the DSWD-7 office on M.J. Cuenco Avenue, Cebu City with contact numbers 2329505, 2321192 and 2329507. They may also visit website www.fo7.dswd.gov.ph for more information. The DSWD-7 has started accepting applications for its regular GIP program. Ten community youths, 18 to 25 years old, who are members of the Pag-Asa Youth organizations (PYAP) from towns where PYAP organizations are active, will be selected. Hired applicants will be deployed to the 10 municipalities to assist in the implementation of social protection program and youth-related activities. They work for 22 days starting May 15.

Youth Urged To Apply For Summer Jobs In Expanded GIP

by PHOEBE JEN INDINO


CEBU CITY, Philippines — In line with the implementation of Expanded Government Internship Program (GIP), the Region 7 office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), is calling on interested students, college graduates and graduates of vocational courses who are unemployed to apply for available summer jobs this year.

DSWD7 is now accepting job applications under the program.

Interested applicants from the provinces of Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental and Siquijor, aged 18 to 30 years old, can submit their application letter and resume’ with photo copy of their birth certificates to the DSWD, Field Office-7 located along M.J. Cuenco Ave., Cebu City or call tel no. 2320505 or 2321192.

One may also check www.fo7.dswd.gov.ph for more information.

Qualified applicants will be assigned in the DSWD Field Office, centers and institutions and communities covered by this welfare agency all over the region.

Jaybee Binghay, DSWD7 information officer said that they will be asked to perform not just office work but also assist in the implementation of the numerous DSWD programs and projects of the agency

“Some of them will be assigned to do direct service through field work in communities where the DSWD projects as well as programs are being implemented in partnership with the Local Government Units (LGUs),” she said.

Earlier, DSWD7 has started accepting applications for its regular GIP program.

The expanded GIP is part of the Aquino Administration’s efforts to strengthen youth participation in nation building, expose them to government service, train them on life skills and contribute to their economic well-being.

Siquijor 4-H gets 10 livelihood projects

by Rizalie A. Calibo


LARENA, Siquijor, April 28 (PIA) -- At least 10 projects for the 4-H club of Siquijor province were funded by the Department of Agriculture-Training Institute in Region 7, according to a report from the office of the provincial agriculturist here.

Supervising Agriculturist Roselyn Bonachita said the projects that totaled P550,000 were distributed to the different 4-H clubs of the municipalities to give them livelihood opportunities.

Three of these are goat raising projects of Wow 4-H club of Cansayang, San Juan, Siquijor headed by National Gawad Saka Awardee, Elnard Ympal; Minalulan 4-H club of Maria, Siquijor thru its president, Alcris Nisnisan; and Logucan 4H also of Maria, headed by Sionielyn Magsayo.

Each of them received P50,000.

A total of six 4-H clubs engaged in swine raising projects also received funding. Larena town’s Sandstone 4-H of Barangay Sabang also received P50,000 for native chicken production.

Bonachita said the assistance was given in a form of loan with no interest.

"Out of the total P550,000 funding, more than 28 percent or P155,200 was already paid with a balance of P394,800 as of April this year, making Siquijor No. 1 in collection in Central Visayas," she said.

Earlier, Provincial Governor Orlando A. Fua Jr. hailed the livestock sector for its contribution to the province’s agricultural productivity, citing the province’s 21,013 heads of cattle, 794 carabaos, 39,489 swine, 20,024 goats, and 474,371 chickens.

“The key to this success lies in the upgrading of programs we undertook for our livestock sector during the past 10 years or so,” he said. (rmn/RAC-PIA Siquijor)






P14M agri projects alloted for Siquijor

by Renan L. Ansing


SIQUIJOR, SIQUIJOR, Philippines – A total of P14 million worth of agricultural projects have been alloted for Siquijor province, according to Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala during his two-day visit here last week.

Alcala, in an interview with The Freeman, said his visit to Siquijor was part of his tour of different agriculture-based provinces nationwide, including meeting with farmers and fishermen and assessing their needs.

Provisions of equipment and infrastructure support would really help farmers in their daily endeavor to increase agricultural productivity, he said.

Among some projects the secretary mentioned were farm-to-market roads, through the Central Philippine Rural Development Program, multi-purpose drying pavements, cassava granulator, mechanical shredder/chipper, corn mill, water system solar water pump and ramp pump, among others.

Alcala also discussed concerns with hundreds of livestock farmers in the towns of Catulayan, San Juan and Siquijor where he promised them support for the livestock industry in the province by providing them abattoir, additional cattle/bulls as draft animals, native pigs, goats and sheep.

“Hindi ibig sabihin ay paatras tayo, kundi mas maganda ang kalidad ng native na baboy at baka. Maganda manganak ang mga ito kaya mabuting padamihin natin,” Alcala told the farmers, while also granting agriculture course scholarships to six beneficiaries.

Governor Orlando Fua, Jr. presented the road map on agriculture but the secretary suggested on giving priorities over projects that were of immediate needs by the farmers, such as seeds and irrigation facilities.

Alcala said there was an increase in the national budget for agriculture from P21 billion last year to P61 billion this year.

“This indicated that President Benigno Aquino III has been committed for the development of agriculture in the countryside to uplift our marginalized farmers and fisherfolks,” he said.

In the Farmers’ Forum and Dialogue with Extension Workers, the secretary turned over projects such as Barangay Food Terminal in San Juan town; water refilling, vermi-composting, alamang processing, improved native chicken, peanut production, seaweeds farming, swine fattening (assisted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources); additional planting materials on rice (certified and hybrid) and corn seeds (tiniguib and OPV); and other farm equipment.

Technoclinic was also held to provide services in crops, livestock, fisheries, with equipment demo and other services by attached bureaus and agencies of the DA.

Other local government units also submitted project proposals to Alcala.

DA-7 executive director Angel Enriquez called on all mayors in Siquijor to unite in the promotion and development of agriculture to attain the government’s goal in “food security and self-sufficiency,” considering that there will be no importation of rice by 2013. - THE FREEMAN







CSC-Siquijor conducts value orientation workshop

by (mbcn/RACalibo/PIA-Siquijor)


LARENA, Siquijor, April 26 (PIA)--At least 24 government employees attended the two-day Values Orientation Workshop that started April 24 at the Civil Service Commission-Siquijor Field Office Training Hall, Old Capitol Building, Larena, Siquijor.

The workshop seeks to clarify the participants’ long-existing values to enhance their commitment to chosen values and to formulate an action plan which support the commitments made, said CSC-Siquijor Provincial Director Atty.Gina Crucio.

Activities include presentation and workshops on “Sino Ako,” “Hiwaga ng Buhay,” “Ang Kalikasan at Ako,” “Mangarap Tayo,” “Sa Totoo Lang, Ganito ‘Yon,”, and “Mabuhay Pinoy” on the first day.

The second day tackled on Public Service, Professionalism, and workshop on “Paglalagom,” “Pananagutan Ko, Paninindigan Ko” which are all handled by Prolaine Daclan of the CSC-7 Public Assistance and Liason Division.

Public servants or employees, Daclan said, should be professional in terms of skills, knowledge, right attitude, good character, physical appearance and performance or accomplishment.

Following the presentations, participants were made to write their personal mission statement/commitment.

“It is hoped that this seminar will cause a positive rippling effect in improving the organizational culture of their respective agencies, Dir. Crucio also said. (mbcn/RAC/PIA-Siquijor)

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Siquijor has lowest crime rate in Central Visayas

SIQUIJOR, April 26 (PIA) -- Siquijor province has the least average monthly crime rate among the seven areas of Central Visayas namely, Bohol, Cebu province, Lapu-lapu, Cebu City, Mandaue, and Negros Oriental, says a report from the Philippine National Police (PNP).

According to the report, Siquijor has an average monthly crime rate of nine compared to Cebu’s 58, the highest in the region.

But overall, Central Visayas crime rate decreased as declared by the Regional Peace and Order Council in Region 7.

Central Visayas’ total crime volume (TCV) for 2010 totalled 5,825 which lowered to 4,265 in 2011 or an equivalent decrease of 26.8 percent.

It continued to decrease in 2012 by 13 percent or 3,704 TCV, the same report also said.

From January to February this year, theft crimes recorded the biggest percentage of 46.7 percent of the total index crime volume. Robbery followed with 24.08 percent; physical injury, 17.27percent; murder, 4.2 percent; carnapping 3.6 percent; homicide 2 percent; rape 2 percent; and cattle rustling, 3 percent.

Meanwhile, PNP said it continues to intensify implementation of Police Integrated Patrol System (PIP), vigorous intelligence monitoring, and deployment of personnel in strategic places, among others, in partnership and with full support from the local government and other stakeholders.

This is to maintain the province’s peace and order and ensure that it remains one of the most desirable places to live, work and ivest, the PNP said.

DA Pledges Provision Of Relief To Farmers In Central Visayas

by MARVYN N. BENANING


CENTRAL VISAYAS – Department of Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala has pledged to provide relief to Central Visayas farmers by implementing a rural development program the implementation of which proved to be effective in Mindanao.

Alcala met with local officials in Cebu, Dumaguete City and Valencia in Negros Oriental, and Siquijor from April 19 to 20 and discussed the possibility of implementing such a program.

Along with local officials, the DA Secretary also met with farmers, fishers, livestock growers and other agricultural stakeholders to resolve major problems and discuss strategies to further increase productivity and incomes of farmers and fisherfolk in the Visayas.

Alcala revealed that he has made a proposal involving a medium-term development plan for the region for possible financing by the World Bank (WB).

The plan, called the Central Philippines Rural Development Program (CPRDP), is designed as a poverty-alleviation initiative aimed for implementation in Regions 4A, 4B, 5, 6, 7, and 8 in partnership with provincial and municipal government units.

Said CPRDP is patterned after the Mindanao Rural Development Plan (MRDP) jointly funded by the WB, the DA, and local government units (LGUs).

“Just like the MRDP, the CPRDP will seek to improve incomes of Orderedfarmers and fisherfolk in rural communities and achieve food security through infrastructure, financing, capacity-building, and other support services,” Alcala said, adding that “right now, we’re asking the WB for a $300-million loan which we hope will be granted. I am positive this partnership will push through because of the MRDP’s success of the MRDP.”

He clarified that unlike the MRDP, which adopts a 50-40-10 counterparting scheme from the WB, DA and LGUs, respectively, to bankroll infrastructure, livelihood and community projects, the CPRDP proposes an 80-20 counterparting ratio, with the DA and LGUs each sharing 10 percent of total cost, with the remaining 80 percent from program funds.

Alcala said the CPRDP will also focus on the establishment of expansion areas for staple food propagation in Southern Luzon, Bicol and Visayas. Those areas will augment crop and fishery production areas in Luzon and Mindanao, both of which are affected by uncertain weather.

In Siquijor, meanwhile, Alcala and his team comprised of DA officials from national and regional offices discussed the concerns of farmers and fisherfolk, livestock raisers and local officials, which the DA Secretary instructed his party to address immediately.

Siquijor Governor Orlando A. Fua, Jr. said there is an urgent need for regular sea transport service in the province to ferry local livestock products to Cebu and other destinations, as well as a slaughterhouse which would enable the selling of meat products locally as well as in other markets.

Alcala said there are other projects, including farm-to-market roads (FMRs), ports and irrigation facilities and other infrastructure, that could be funded under the CPRDP. “I urge you to register your identified project needs and let the WB know that you are interested to be part of the CPRDP,” he told Fua.

20,000 Mangroves Set For Planting

by PHOEBE JEN INDINO


MANDAUE CITY, Cebu — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Region 7 (DENR-7) is set to plant over 20,000 mangrove propagules in one day on a simultaneous massive mangrove planting and coastal clean-up of 12 identified coastal areas in Central Visayas on April 26.

The said event marks the country’s Earth Month celebration this April with DENR as main convenor.

DENR-7 Regional Executive Director Maximo O. Dichoso said the agency has chosen to plant mangroves as they provide nursery grounds for fish, prawns and crabs, and support fisheries production in coastal waters. “It is vitally important that we sustain our mangrove planting efforts,” he stressed.

The said activity will be conducted along with local government units, non-government organizations, the academe, and other stakeholders in Cebu, Negros Oriental, Bohol and Siquijor provinces.

Among the coastal areas to be planted with mangroves are Guibuangan, Barili, and Catarman, Cordova, all in Cebu as well as in Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental.

“It must be emphasized that DENR Secretary Ramon JP Paje wants to see our coastal areas carpeted with mangroves,” Dichoso added.

With an eye on this year’s Earth Day celebration, a soil potting activity was also conducted last April 20 in all community environment and natural resources offices (CENROs) in the region.

This year’s Earth Day, themed “Earth Day Every Day Everywhere” raises the awareness level n the gravity of environmental degradation and destruction.

In a related development, hundreds of biker enthusiasts along with different organizations here celebrated Earth Day by pushing to reduce carbon footprint through an earth bike ride. The concept is designed to create road sharing mechanisms such as bike lanes, and fielding of sustainable means of transportation.

IN NEG.OR., SIQUIJOR: Faithful venerate St. Clare of Assisi relic

by UDY F. PARTLOW


Catholic faithful flocked to the churches in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, and in Maria town, Siquijor province, to pay their respects, and offer petitions and prayers to the Relic of St. Clare of Assisi.

The relic arrived at the Dumaguete airport Wednesday morning, and traveled to Siquijor on board a fast craft. Bishop John Du, of the Diocese of Dumaguete, led the pilgrims, priests, nuns, and lay ministers in a motorcade to Maria, and officiated in a concelebrated mass at the jam-packed church in the town.

The relic was then brought in a procession to the nearby Monastery of the Poor Clare nuns for exposition and veneration.

The pilgrimage returned to Dumaguete City in the afternoon, where a huge crowd gathered at the city port, and joined the motorcade of the relic through the city’s main streets, to the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, where two masses were held in the evening.

Another exposition and veneration was held until early yesterday morning, when a dawn procession was held, and then a concelebrated mass, led by Du, who thanked the thousands of people, who came to see and venerate the relic.

“We are truly blessed and honored to have the relic come and visit us,” Du said.

The sacred artifact came all the way from Rome, Italy, to visit selected dioceses in the Philippines in its first-ever overseas trip in 800 years.

The relic, a part of the saint’s cranium encased in an ornate glass and gold-plated reliquary, has been in the Philippines since February 21 to make the rounds of 13 dioceses selected by the Holy See, Fr. Jess Dajac, its official guardian, said.

Dajac, a Filipino priest based in Rome and, of the Missionaries of Faith, and Mercedes Tuason, the Philippines Ambassador to the Vatican, have been accompanying the relic.

He added that the Holy See has granted plenary indulgence to those who venerate the relic as long as they met requisites, like going to confession and receiving communion.

Sor Encarnacion Reyes, president of the Federation of the Poor Clares-Philippines, said the visit of the relic to the country, is an affirmation of God’s love for His people in this predominantly-Catholic country in Asia.

She thanked Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto, the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Tuason and Dajac, for their help in the realization of the visit of the relic to the Philippines.*JFP

Survey shows govt neglect of basic needs

by Maricel Cruz



ZAMBALES Rep. Milagros Magsaysay and Siquijor Rep. Orlando Fua said Wednesday a recent survey citing the lowest public approval rating of President Aquino revealed the administration’s neglect of the basic needs of the 92 million Filipinos.

The latest Pulse Asia survey says 64 percent to 74 percent of the 1,200 respondents it polled, or 7 out of every 10 Filipino adults, believe controlling inflation is among the most urgent issues that must be addressed as a result of the skyrocketing prices of oil and petroleum products and the rising cost of the raw materials to produce basic goods.

The results of the survey, conducted Feb. 26 to March 9, also say the impeachment trial of Chief Justice Renato Corona is one of the least urgent issues that have been occupying the Aquino administration (13 percent), as well as the government’s efforts to run after former and current government officials accused of graft and corruption (12 percent).

But an Aquino ally, Western Samar Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento, said the survey results should inspire instead of diminishing the Aquino administration’s efforts to improve the plight of the Filipino people.

“With the survey, the administration for sure will try its best in maintaining its inflationary target for 2012 given the current global economic outlook,” Sarmiento said.

But Fua wondered where the administration was leading the country. “It has not provided solutions to the basic problems of the Filipino people,” he said.

Magsaysay said the Aquino administration’s dismal performance proved it was not performing at all.

Relic of St. Clare of Assisi to be brought to Dumaguete April 18-19

by April 17, 2012 9:45am


The relic of St. Clare of Assisi will be brought to Negros Oriental province from April 18 to 19, Palo (Leyte) Archbishop-elect John Du said.

In an article on the Visayan Daily Star, Du, former bishop of Dumaguete, said the relic will arrive at the Dumaguete airport at around 7:05 a.m. on April 18, and will depart for Siquijor the next day.

He called on the Dumaguete clergy to prepare for the visit of the relic,which is being brought on pilgrimage outside of Italy for the first time in 800 years.

Fr. Jess Dajac, a Filipino priest based in Rome, has been appointed the official guardian of the St. Clare relic while in the Philippines, Du said.

On April 18, there will be a Mass at the Our Lady of Divine Providence Parish in Maria, Siquijor. A procession to the Monastery of the Poor Clare Sisters and an exposition/veneration at the Monastery will be held after the Mass.

The relic will return to Dumaguete at around 3:00 p.m.

Two Masses will be celebrated at the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral starting at 5:00 p.m. on the same day. It will be followed by an exposition and veneration of the relic at 7:00 p.m.

On April 19, a Mass will be held at the Cathedral at 5:00 a.m. before the relic is brought to the Dumaguete airport at around 7:25 a.m.

St. Clare was born in Assisi, Italy, on July 16, 1194 and died there August 11, 1253.

She is the patroness of navigators, families, and childless couples.






DOST-Siquijor names ten science scholars

by (rmn/RACalibo with reports from DOST-SEI)


SIQUIJOR, April 15 (PIA) -- At least ten high school students from Siquijor province have qualified for the Science Education Institute (SEI) scholarships for SY 2012-2013 from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

This was bared earlier by DOST-Siquijor Provincial Director Mario E. De la Pena who said that this is the first time that Siquijor received the highest number of qualifiers and that all six towns are represented.

The qualifiers are Zaidy Martin of San Antonio High School; Sugar Kenn Atay, Saturnino Banting Jr., Lovely Pearl Cenas, and Stiffany Jane Tumapon of Siquijor Provincial High School; Steven Sunogan of the Lazi National Agricultural School; and Krystyl Tedlos of Enrique Villanueva National High School.

The three others who qualified are studying at the Sisters of Mary School Boystown in Cebu but hail from Siquijor. They are Alamid Edayan from Bonga, Maria; Jherold Adam Magsanay from Tacloban, Siquijor; and Vilmar Vicoy from Canlambo, Larena, Siquijor.

A total of 3,400 high school students nationwide have qualified for this year’s the DOST SEI scholarship.

The new science and technology scholars under the RA 7687 Scholarship Program will receive subsidies on tuition fee and other school fees as well as book allowance, monthly living allowance for a 10-to-11 month duration every year and more.

RA 7687 or the the Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994 was created in order for the government to offer scholarships in various technology areas for talented and deserving high school graduates through DOST-SEI.

DOST-SEI scholars receive the same benefits as the RA 7687 scholars except for a pro-rated monthly stipend depending on the family's socio- economic status.

Through the annual DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship Programs, talented and deserving high school graduates are given opportunities to pursue four-or-five-year baccalaureate degrees in priority science and technology fields.

Qualifiers can enroll in state universities and other higher education institutions recognized by the Commission on Higher Education as Centers of Excellence or Centers of Development.

Priority sciences in which the scholars can enroll are in the fields of Agriculture, Agricultural Biotechnology; Agricultural Chemistry; Agricultural Engineering; Applied Mathematics; Applied Physics; Biochemistry; Biology; Ceramics Engineering; Chemistry w/ Applied Comp. System; Chemistry w/ Materials Science and Engineering; Chemical Engineering; Chemistry; Civil Engineering; Computer Engineering; Computer Science; Electrical Engineering; Electronics and Communications Engineering; Environmental Science; Fisheries; Food Technology; Forestry; Geology; Geodetic Engineering; Geological Science and Engineering; Industrial Engineering; Information Technology; Manufacturing Engineering; Materials Engineering; Mathematics; Mechanical Engineering; Metallurgical Engineering; Mining Engineering; Molecular Biology and Biotechnology; Physics; Physics with Applied Computer System; Physics with Materials Science and Engineering; Science/Mathematics Teaching and Statistics.

The scholarship is DOST's commitment to uphold the pledge of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III to support the expansion of scholarships granted to outstanding yet underprivileged students.

DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo said this year's scholarship qualifiers will add to the pool of highly qualified scientists and engineers who will take active participation and leadership roles especially in science and technology and Research and Development (R&D) activities.

"The Department shall always grant scholarships to deserving students who embrace excellence along their chosen fields of specialization," Sec. Montejo said.

SEI Director Filma G. Brawner is confident that the "Iskolars ng Bayan" will someday use the talents and skills they acquired for the development of the country.

The scholars are obliged to render service in the country after completion of their programs of study for a duration equivalent to the period of scholarship.

Feature: Siquijor Healing Festival attract more than 13,000 tourists

by Rizalie A. Calibo


At least 13,320 domestic and foreign vacationers trooped to the Mountain View Park in Camp Bandilaan, Siquijor, Siquijor during the island’s big event - the Healing Festival last Holy Week.

According to the Provincial Tourism Office here, Siquijor was packed with day-trippers, travelers, sightseers or trekkers the entire week not just to witness the festival but to explore the entire island.

Some also sought respite in the island's tranquil places just like any traveler would want in this time of the year.

This year’s festival yielded the highest number of visitors so far, the tourism office said.

From the number of visitors, 13,199 are domestic and 121 are foreign tourists.

The increased tourist traffic must be because of the Healing Festival, which is timed perfectly for the Holy Week observation. Aside from it being the time for a much-needed long vacation for a lot of Filipinos, Holy Week is a significant time for Christians as we remember Christ’s last few days on Earth before his resurrection.

“Siquijor is just perfect for those wanting a relaxing and quiet place,” one traveler said of the island.

“We are earning a reputation as a tourist destination during Holy Week,” Governor Orlando A. Fua Jr. said as he reported that the Healing Festival garnered an income of more than P80,000 from the P10 per person admission fees alone .

He also cited the herbal gardens that the province has developed where ingredients for potions were taken.

The Healing Festival is a showcase of the alternative and traditional healing methods indigenous to Siquijor.

Dr Virgie Bonocan Miquiabas, a Siquijodnon who has written a book on the traditional healing methods of the island, said folk healing is really true. “This is the beauty of the hidden wonders of the island,” she said.

She said the age-old practices continue despite modern-day science because those who seek it find it cheaper and sometimes more effective than relying on medical experts.   “Siquijor is known for its traditional healers all over the country and it is one of the assets that differentiates our island from the other islands in the country,” Provincial Tourism Officer Josette Almirola also said.

She said that aside from the island's mystical beauty, 'Healing Festival' is one of its main attractions based on the assessment from the various tourism stakeholders in the province.

During the festival, healers and herbalists all over Visayas and Mindanao would come together and participate in the preparation of oils and concoctions, a combination of herbs, tree barks and roots and insects which they gather during the seven Fridays of the Lenten season.

The whole week also includes exhibits of local products and souvenir items, aside from the herbal medicines and love potions made by the local herbalists.

“Sikijod” spa massage or the Siquijor brand of massage, healing sessions with various healers, and “Bolo-bolo” healing, and some local entertainments also spice up the whole event. (rmn/RACalibo - PIA 7, Siquijor)

State U president calls on students' pro-active role vs climate change

by (MBCN/RAC-PIA Siquijor)


LARENA, Siquijor, April 12 (PIA) -- The president of Negros Oriental State University (NorSu) recently called on students of the Siquijor State College (SSC) to get involved in the fight against climate change.

In his message during the SSC’s 17th charter anniversary, NorSu president Henry Sojor said climate change is a harsh reality man faces today. “God always forgives. Man sometimes forgives. Nature never forgives,” Sojor said as he called on the students to reflect on the theme,“The Role of Siquijor State College in Responding to the Global Climate Change.”

He cited plastic as the worst invention of humankind and urged the students to take proactive roles in saving the Earth as the rate of climate change is already alarming.

He encouraged students to plant and grow trees as they are proven to be beneficial to nature.

In line with the charter anniversary, the SSC faculty and students conducted a tree planting activity at Barangay Balolanng, Larena, Siquijor.






Relic of St. Clare of Assisi to visit Dumaguete, Siquijor

by JUDY F. PARTLOW


The Diocese of Dumaguete has been chosen as one of the few dioceses to be visited by the Relic of St. Clare of Assisi, April 18 and 19, Fr. John Du, archbishop-elect of the Archdiocese of Palo, Leyte, said.

Du, former bishop of Dumaguete, said the relic will arrive at the Dumaguete airport around 7:05 a.m. next Wednesday, and will depart for Siquijor an hour after. A welcome mass will be held at the Our Lady of Divine Providence Parish in Maria, Siquijor at 10 a.m.; procession of the relic to the Monastery of the Poor Clare Sisters, 11 a.m.; and an exposition/veneration at the Monastery at 11:30 a.m.

The relic will return to Dumaguete around 3 p.m., with two masses to be celebrated at the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, starting at 5 p.m., followed by an exposition/veneration of the relic, at 7 p.m.

A departure mass at the Cathedral was also scheduled 5 a.m. on April 19, before the relic will be motored to the Dumaguete airport around 7:25 a.m.

Du, who called on the Dumaguete clergy to prepare for the visit of the relic, said this is the first time in 800 years that the relic will have a pilgrimage in a place outside of Italy. Fr. Jess Dajac, a Filipino priest based in Rome, has been appointed the official guardian of the St. Clare relic while in the Philippines, he added.

St. Clare was born in Assisi, Italy, on July 16, 1194 and died there August 11, 1253. The saint is the patroness of navigators, couples who are childless, of life and of families.*JFP

Number of crimes down in Cebu City

by bong


CEBU CITY – Cebu City has posted the highest number of crimes in Central Visayas with 1,137 cases in the past two months. Senior Supt. Mariano Natuel, chief of the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division (RIDMD), said the number showed a drop of 139 cases in the region compared to the same period last year that had 1,276 cases. Based on the current crime statistics, at least 18 crimes occurred in Cebu City every day. Natuel said Cebu province followed Cebu City with 960 cases. But this was a drop of 222 cases from last year’s 1,182, he said. He said Cebu City has the highest number of crimes because it has a bigger population and has more economic activities. Bohol occupied the third spot with 518 cases. The province’s criminality rose by 74 cases from last year’s 444. Negros Oriental ranked fourth with 471 cases. The province’s number of crimes fell by 203 compared to last year’s 674. Lapu-Lapu City came next with 310. The city posted a decrease of 19 cases from last year’s 329. The sixth spot belonged to Mandaue City, which had 290 cases. This was a decrease of 28 cases from last year’s 318. Siquijor, the smallest province in the region, posted only 18 cases, which is a decrease of 24 incidents from last year’s 42. The region recorded a total of 3,704 crimes in the last two months, 561 cases lower than last year’s 4,265. Of the total cases, 2,525 incidents were considered index crimes and 1,179 were non-index. Index crimes are those committed against persons and properties, while non-index crimes are violations of special laws, such as those on illegal drugs, gambling and loose firearms. Theft, robbery, physical injuries, murder and carnapping remain the most commonly committed index crimes in the region.

DepEd-7's Schoolbuilding Program Allotted P64M

by mb.com.ph


CEBU CITY, Cebu (PNA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) in Region 7 will spend P63.8 million for its regular schoolbuilding program in Central Visayas this year, with Cebu province receiving the biggest share at P29.4 million.

Cebu City will have the biggest share – P29.4 million - of said budget set aside for Cebu province while Bohol and Negros Oriental will receive P10.5 million and P11.1 million, respectively.

Lapu-Lapu City will get P4.2 million, while Siquijor province will receive the smallest allocation at P467,000.

In the construction of new schoolbuildings, schools with severe shortage of classrooms will be prioritized, according to the guidelines issued by the DepEd last February this year.

DepEd will prioritize the replacement of schoolbuildings destroyed by fire, typhoon and other natural disasters.

Last year, DepEd 7 built 587 classrooms, out of its 736 target in 2011.

Among the regions in the country, Central Visayas had the highest completion rate, or 79.75 percent in terms of schoolbuilding.

Of the 736 classrooms, DepEd planned to build last year, 131 are under construction, while 18 have yet to be constructed.

Under DepEd’s guidelines, each new classroom will be provided with school furniture, including 45 armchairs, a teacher’s table and chair, and a blackboard.

The standard size for a classroom in all public elementary and secondary schools is seven meters wide and nine meters long.

Special Feature: Healing Festival, spells Siquijor magic

by Rizalie A. Calibo


SIQUIJOR, April 8 (PIA) -- It used to be just a customary gathering of healers and herbalists from the island and all over Visayas and Mindanao come together in Holy Week to participate in the preparation of medical potions made from a variety of tree barks, roots, herbs, insects, and other ingredients.

These are gathered during Fridays of the Lent from the forests, seas, caves and cemeteries. The resulting brews are known to have healing powers.

Usual or unusual it may seem, it attracted a number of tourists. Foreign and local alike come to the island, especially during the Holy Week either to observe the healing session, or simply need to get healed.

Today, the provincial government tags it the “Healing Festival” to bring positive twist on the island’s mystical repute.

Now on its third year, the Healing Festival showcased the alternative and traditional healing methods indigenous to Siquijor.

These are composed of “Pangalap” or the gathering of the different kinds of herbs for seven Fridays (Feb 24-April 06) of the Lenten season; “Pag-adlep” or chopping of gathered herbs on Maundy Thursday (April 05); and herbal preparation of Cooking by the Cantabon Healers and Herbalists group on Black Saturday (April 7).

The whole festivity also includes among others, Product Display (herbal medicines and others), “Sikijod” spa massage (Siquijor brand of massage), healing sessions with various healers, and “Bolo-bolo” healing, with some local entertainments.

It was held at the Bandilaan Mountain View Park, situated at the center of the province that stands 557 feet at its highest point and is surrounded by a 224-hectare man-made forest that is home to endemic fauna and flora and other attractions.

According to the Provincial Tourism Office, the love potions are the island’s top selling products. They come in a couple of variants, either in oil or non-liquid form, to be stirred with your favorite perfume and cologne.

It has been said that by rubbing or spraying the mixture on yourself, you will attract good vibes, business luck or the love of your life. The love potion is the concoction of 20 specific herbs gathered only during the seven Fridays of lent season.

Herbal potion, on the other hand, is accordingly what Siquijor’s host of folk healers use for many, many years. It is a especially-brewed medicinal liniment to treat physical ailments, which they believe are either brought about by natural and supernatural causes.

Each medicinal potion, it is said, contains 200 types of herbal plants, interestingly bear the names of the kind of effect it leaves on people like “tawa-tawa” (laughter), “sumbalik” (return), “Tulay” (connection), “tulog-tulog” (rest, and others.)

Undoubtedly negative images abound about the island. Just the mention of Siquijor, people are quick to associate the place with mysticism, magic, witchcraft and sorcery – blurring the island’s real beauty and goodness.

But Siquijor, one should say, is blessed with natural divine beauty – alluring white sand beaches, caves, natural spring,… so that one visitor said she felt static the moment she saw Siquijor.

“The water was so blue and inviting and the whole coastline was covered with white sand. It truly makes for a great first impression for tourists to this paradise island,” the same visitor said of the inviting waters in Siquijor pier. These are but a few of the Siquijor charms.

Healing Festival, is another. And it’s a kind of festivity that also spells Siquijor magic. Not only because of the healers, herbalists and the potions or the so called “powers” that come with them, but the island itself, that brings healing of one’s body and spirit.

As one of my favorite impression of Siquijor says: “… Siquijor is more than an island paradise. It is a state of mind, it’s an attitude, a perspective, a lesson in stress management, and a watering hole for the mind and spirit."

“To say the least, whether you believe in witchcraft or not, the island of Siquijor possesses a kind of magic so enchanting that tourists from all over are enticed to see. Mystifying in every angle, Siquijor is a destination of picturesque sunsets, unexplored coves, and stunning sites just waiting to be discovered.” (mbcn/RAC/PIA-Siquijor)

The sorcerer of Siquijor

by DANNY PATA


In an age when modern technology, advanced communications, and social networking sites have allowed people across the globe to get in touch with one another easily, are supernatural powers and magic spells still in vogue?

In the island province of Siquijor, a popular destination during Holy Week for its spiritual healers, technology and globalization have failed to eradicate the centuries-old practice of sorcery or kulam.

Alberto Baroro, or Mang Edol to his neighbors in Cang-atuyom village, is a well-known sorcerer in the province.

He lives on the slopes of Mount Bandilaan, the highest peak in Siquijor Island, in the town of San Antonio. It is an hour’s drive on a habal-habal (commuter bike) from Siquijor, the capital of the province.

His house stands in the middle of a forest, surrounded by tall trees. In his garden are different herbal plants like tudlo kamay, managhoy, talirugok, and tambal. He uses their leaves and the roots in making concoctions, love potions, lucky charms, and pangontra or protection from a sorcerer’s spell.

Mang Edol has been practising sorcery for over 40 years. Far from the usual portrayal of witch houses in horror films, however, Mang Edol’s residence is a humble dwelling in a remote village. The small concrete structure has two rooms, a small table, and two chairs in the sala, where four large photo frames of his children hang on the wall.

Exacting justice

Cheerful and friendly, Mang Edol gladly answered questions, with the habal-habal driver acting as interpreter, during a visit to his mountain abode two weeks ago.

Mang Edol's fame is not confined to Siquijor. “Some of my clients come all the way from Dubai, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, America, and Cambodia,” Mang Edol said.

Most of the cases he handles are land conflicts, marital infidelity, and rape victims who want to exact revenge. However, he does not accept all the cases brought to him: the would-be client has to prove that he or she is a victim of injustice.

Occasionally, there’s politics as well. “I can no longer recall what year exactly it was, but he is a politician in Mindanao. However, I don’t usually handle cases involving politics, unless you can give me a very convincing and justifiable reason,” Mang Edol recounted.

Some of his clients want the most extreme penalty for their enemies, meaning death. Others only wish to scare their opponents or inflict pain to teach them a lesson, he says, showing pictures of the persons he has cursed.

Those who seek his help pay anywhere between P20,000 and P30,000, depending on their financial or social status. Despite the steep price tag, Mang Edol has not run out of customers seeking his extraordinary skills.

The 66-year-old man, who inherited his “power” from his parents, is so in demand that he can no longer remember how many people he has cursed.

The ritual

The usual ritual he performs is called “Paktol,” which involves a human skull and takes seven Fridays to complete. Mang Edol explained that his client needs to provide pictures of the person to be cursed. He does the ritual every Friday at 12 noon, each procedure usually taking 30 minutes.

Sometimes, he performs the ritual in his house, or in a cemetery where he buries the picture of the person being cursed. Ironically, Mang Edol is a devout Catholic who also does the ritual in the Church, where he seeks help from the saints.

To give us a full grasp of how it works, Mang Edol willingly demonstrates the ritual.

On the table, he prepared the materials needed such as the human skull, black candles, ashes, and the photo of the person to be cursed.

He then uttered a prayer in an unfamiliar language, which sounded like Latin. The prayer lasted more than two minutes. Afterwards, he lit the black candle and placed it inside a tin can.

On a small sheet of paper, he wrote the name of the person and placed it inside the skull, and then he burned the photo until it turned into ashes.

He repeats the procedure for seven Fridays. On the last day, he goes to the cemetery and buries the name and picture of the person cursed.

Death curse and pangontra

Asked what will happen to the person, Mang Edol said, “the victim will suffer from different serious diseases which cannot be treated by doctors. The person’s condition may get worse until he dies.”

He will know if the curse has taken effect when his client sends a text message or calls to inform him about the fate of the victim. The most extreme curse, the death spell, can be reversed if his client so wishes, especially if the person seeks forgiveness.

“I reverse the spell by digging the picture of the victim I buried in the cemetery. But I have to be informed of it immediately, because if the victim’s condition gets worse, it may be too late and I can no longer do anything to save him,” Mang Edol added.

Whenever he finishes a case, Mang Edol said he has trouble sleeping due to a heaviness in his head.

Does he feel scared? “No,” says Mang Edol. At this juncture, he showed us a small plastic bottle, a pangontra that he carries everywhere to protect him from negative consequences.

He has no plans of retiring yet, because sorcery is his only means of income.

Asked whether he is planning to pass on his power to one of his children when he retires, he answered, "Right now, no one among my kids is showing interest in sorcery."

If ever, will it mean an end to sorcery in their family? Mang Edol doesn’t know. But despite the uncertainty, he believes that sorcery will remain alive in Siquijor for many years to come.

DILG conducts ADB survey on Siquijor local gov’t capacity

by (RMN/RAC-PIA7 Siquijor)


SIQUIJOR, April 3 (PIA) -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) recently conducted a Survey on Local Government Capacity in Project Management in three local government units (LGUs) in the province.

The survey was conducted in the towns of Siquijor and Larena, and the provincial government of Siquijor.

The survey collected data from the local governments on their capacity constraints and other factors that affect their project management at the local level, said DILG-Siquijor officer-in-charge Kenneth Kilat.

It specifically targeted the administrators, planning and development officers, treasurers, accountants, budget officers, provincial and municipal welfare and development officers, agriculturists, environment officers, engineers, health officers and general services officers.

The survey is conducted by the Philippine government with the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) as the executing agency and the DILG and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as partners.

Results of the survey would help in the review of policies related to the LGU's program and project implementation and in identifying actions to improve their capacities in the area, Kilat added.

DENR-Siquijor meets NGP 2011 target

by Rizalie A. Calibo


SIQUIJOR, Apr. 1 (PIA)--The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Siquijor said it has met the 2011 national greening program (NGP) target for Siquijor Island.

Provincial Environment and Natural Resources (PENRO) officer Antonio Cabrido said the DENR's 2011 target of 250 hectares was 100 percent planted with various kinds of trees.

Cabrido said that rehabilitating and protecting the forests from the upland to lowland is vital and crucial to slowdown the pace and effect of climate change.

He also said that the key to success in the battlle against climate change is teamwork. "Teamwork is the name of the game for climate mitigation and adaptation measures to save our beautiful island," he added.

He said everyone must take immediate steps to protect the environment for the next generation to carry on.

The PENRO thanked the public for the support and cooperation in reaching the goal.

Presently the DENR office is also progating Balite trees that are known to be good source of water that can be used for future watersheds in the province. (mbcn/RAC/PIA-Siquijor/with reports from Inacher A. Abatayo)


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