www.bikolreporter.webs.

com

e-mail: rubenbabar_br@yahoo.com

OUTSTANDING LOCAL NEWSPAPER

For Five Consecutive Years St. Peter Baptist Catholic Mass Media Awards

REGIONAL EXPONENT FOR PROGRESS

473-8888

DAET, Camarines Norte -- The local government unit of Daet in Camarines Norte joins the growing list of local governments in the country providing aid to the victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda as a show of solidarity and a sense of community among Filipinos.
Mayor Tito Sarion an-

Daet mayor vows aids to 'Yolanda' victims

Mayor SARION nounced that he has authorized the release of P100,000 to buy supplies such as food, water and medicine to be distributed in the devastated areas in the eastern Visayas, particularly in Tacloban City, known to be one of the areas hardest hit by the typhoon. Speaking during the flag raising ceremony of the LGU Monday (Nov. 11) Mayor Sarion also exhorted his fellow Daeteos to extend whatever assistance they can give to typhoon victims, be it in kind, monetary or voluntary service. He noted that as Daeteos should be thankful to the Almighty for sparing the municipality of the wrath of Yolanda, it is all the more our civic duty to show solidarity and help fellow Filipinos in distressed. The LGU of Daet initiated a municipal-wide relief campaign and sought the help of its employees, government offices, schools, churches and commercial establishments to pool their efforts and combined them as a singular donation from Daeteos. Mayor Sarion plans to bring them person(Turn to page 7)

DPWH-Bicol team to assist in Samar, Leyte

LEGAZPI CITY Personnel of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bicol regional office are now on their eight day of helping in the clearing and restoration operations in the typhoon-stricken Samar and Leyte -- particularly in Guiuan town in Samar and in Tacloban City, according to Lucy Castaneda, DPWH Bicol spokesperson. Castaneda said that so far, as of today, the agency has already deployed 10 dump trucks, one payload-

Dir. DEQUITO er, four service vehicles, 17 chainsaws, eight generator sets, 12 tents and 67 manpower composed of equipment operators,
(Turn to page 6)

IBP CamSur sponsors Fun Sports, Wellness Day cum fund drive
In the light of the recent calamity that devastated the country and rendered thousands of families homeless and orphaned, members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)- Camarines Sur Chapter decided to make their celebration of 2013 IBP Fun, Sports and Wellness Day more significant and noble by allotting part of their registration fee to Typhoon Yolandas survivors. IBP-Camarines Sur Chapter President Atty. Remelisa Alfelor-Moraleda, said that it will not be all games and
(Turn to page 7)

For Typhoon Yolanda survivors

FPECI slates 2nd Bicol Eagles Youth Congress

We are all set for the three-day event, with six activities, exclaimed Naga City Councilor Nathan Sergio, the new president of the Federation of Philippine Eagle Clubs, Incorporated. Sergio is referring to the event of FPECI dubbed as the 2nd Bicol Eagles Youth Congress on November 22 to 24, this year, with the theme Brotherhood of Men for Youth Empowerment and NationBuilding. Mostly spearheaded and initiated by

Eagle SERGIO ...FPECI president

(Turn to page 6)

MEETING ON 2nd BICOL EAGLES YOUTH CONGRESS

Meeting held by the Federation of the Philippine Eagles Club, Inc. (FPECI) core group last Nov. 11 to discuss activities and action plan on relief operation for Zamboanga, Samar and Leyte, as well as the forthcoming 2nd Bicol Eagles Youth Congress on Nov. 22-24, 2013, held at the compound of Eagle Philip Imperial II, over-all chairman. Eagle Jaime Poon is the Chairman of the Board.

November 17-23.indd 1

11/18/2013 11:11:31 AM

BIKOL REPORTER

OPINION

NOVEMBER 17-23, 2013

Albay governor says 'Yolanda' climate monster

LEGAZPI CITY - With a staggering economic cost of P604 billion or US$ 14 billion, super typhoon "Yolanda" (international name: Haiyan) has put more pressure behind the commitment of the Green Climate Fund Board to operationalize the fund in 2014, according to Albay Governor Joey Sarte Salceda, who currently chairs the United Nations Green Climate Fund. Salceda noted there is also a need to conduct a resource mobilization exercise by September 2014 when the United Nations General Assembly meets in New York as well as provide initial funding to capability building and preparedness activities of developing countries. "It is no mere coincidence that I was unanimously selected by developing countries to co-chair the fund with Germany a month before this climate monster clawed and sank its pangs into my homeland, right at the center which hosts most of our beautiful spots, he said. Salceda claimed that the Green Climate Fund is the principal weapon of the world community in slaying this grievous monster. Thus far, bilateral donations have amounted to only P2.4 billion, a far cry from the P604-billion economic impact it has cost the Philippines, which is equivalent to five percent of the countrys gross domestic product," the Albay governor said. The amount, he said, is more than three times the reconstruction cost of typhoons Pepeng and Ondoy, based on an assessment done by the World Bank. This overlaps with the negative impact or reconstruction demand from "Pablo", that hit Zamboanga and Bohol provinces which totaled another P60 billion. Salceda said some P664 billion less the P86 billion insurance proceeds means a net funding demand of P578 billion. We expect reconstruction and rebuilding efforts to kick off in 2014, which could provide the boost. The government announced that it is going to utilize an initial P23 billion for reconstruction relief. But this is way below the estimated economic impact on output by the loss in fixed capacity, thus, limiting the countrys GDP growth to only five percent, the economist governor said. Given the staggering size of P664 billion in reconstruction cost, the mind-blowing physical magnitude, the complexity of tasks and the absorptive capacity, Salceda suggested that Cabinet Secretary Rene Almendras be installed as the reconstruction czar or overall coordinator. Almendras, he said, will also be in charge of special pledging session to mobilize international financial resources. In the meantime, the humanitarian response (relief and early recovery) should be centralized under Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman, he said.

Opportunities in UAE
(Atty. APA chairs Acyatan & Co., CPAs-DFK International is PICPA past president and Hall-of-Famer, past chair of ASEAN Federation of CPAs, and ACPAPP Lifetime Achievement Awardee). OFW SLOTS: We have just returned from a business-cum-pleasure trip to Dubai, one of the seven sheikdoms comprising the United Arab Emirates. In terms of oil revenues, Dubai shares but 10% of the UAEs income the bigger balance belonging to Abu Dhabi. The five other sheikdoms have minimal gas and oil revenues but their sheiks have equal voting powers in UAEs eco-political decisions. Abu Dhabis reserves reportedly rank third among the countries of the Middle East (first is Saudi Arabia and second is Iran). Nearby Dubai (two hours by overland travel) has attained its economic prominence with the development of its tourism industry as well as the services sector. It is now center for financial services, centrally located as it is between Europe and Asia (the new eco-growth area). The political leader of the UAE either comes from Abu Dhabi or Dubai. has A a result, of the ASEAN GDP: Thailand and the Philippines are the star economic performers in Southeast Asia which registered a combined gross domestic product of 5.7% during the first semester of 2013. The so-called ASEAN 5 consisting of the original membercountries, grew by 5.1% from January to June faster than last years 4.9%. ASEAN founders are Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. The brisk ASEAN eco-growth is spurred by the services sector in the light of the regions shying away from agriculture which has decreased its impact on the regional GDP. In the Philippines, the services sector accounted for 57% of the economy second only to Singapores 62%. The per capita income of the Southeast Asians averaged $3,751 in 2012 from $3,591 in (which his family agreed to due to economic reasons). During his final period of confinement he was already massively excreting blood. The medical attendant gave him five kinds of drugs in addition to the liquid dextrose he was connected to. His wife asked the medical attendant why five at the same time? The reply was in order to prevent the bleeding adding that it was the hospital doctors advice. During that time of crisis no doctor (or intern) examined the gasping patient. Only a nurse looked at the records, assuring the patients wife that she will consult the doctor. After five hours (still no doctor), the patient went into coma and thereafter passed away. Choose your physicians well and more so your hospital! TAX REMINDERS: The year is about to end so taxpayers must now review their report submissions to check if their compliances are already above board. They must remember that all submitted reports (current and previous periods) may be amended for updating provided the tax returns are not yet covered by LNs or LAs. The last quarter is a good time within which to pre-assess whether what have been reported so far are defensible. Forthcoming deadlines include: quarterly income tax returns for the 3rd quarter (ending September 30) that is, November 15 for individuals and November 29 for corporations. Monthly percentage returns are due every 20th of the month following but the quarterly VAT Returns (which can amend monthly VAT Declarations of previous two months) are due on November 25. Reports and remittances on withholdings must be complied with to qualify the amounts as deductions. PROVERBS: A wise mans heart guides his mouth; and his soft lips promote instructions.

2011. GDP per capita for the Philippines was recorded at $4,339 lowest in the ASEAN-5s $7,010. OUR OFWS: Our Filipino modernday heroes are again being tested to the hilt: in Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong. Those being expelled from Saudi (some were reportedly treated like animals) are mostly undocumented (without formal entry documents or with expired visas or permits). Many of them were hesitant to go home, ashamed to admit that their travel abroad was a costly mistake. They bit the bullet and lost in the process! The Hong Kong situation is a different story with a lot of politics involved. Just like in the Phl there are politicians in HK who are using the 3-year old Luneta (Manila) accident to bolster their campaign. They propose to ban hiring of Filipino maids and to require Pinoys travelling to Hong Kong to secure visas. We should call the HK bluff, by opening up OFW employment areas elsewhere and asking Pinoys to instead travel (visafree) to our ASEAN neighbors! DOCTORS: A good friend of ours only 59 years old, got sick of dengue fever. His family brought him to the nearest hospital where his ailment was diagnosed. Despite the findings he was allowed to go home time and again

rubenbabar_br@yahoo.com

Head, Advertising Associates 0920-533-7766

LEE G. DULLESCO II

I watched the hearing of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on TV last Thursday (Nov. 7) presided by its Chairman Sen. Teofisto Guingona where alleged mastermind of the pork barrel scams, Janet Napoles, was present and the state witnesses against her. Napoles had no lawyer since her former lawyer Lorna Kapunan left her and she cannot find a replacement. The Committee assigned three lawyers from the Public Attorneys Office to be her lawyers which she met only for the first time and they were given thirty minutes to confer with each other before the hearing began. I am not surprised why Janet Napoles used her Constitutional right against selfincrimination many times. That is a right of every citizen. But how I wish she said everything she knows, all the senators and congressmen in the supposed barrel scam. Was she afraid to reveal any or some allies of the administration? Remember, she is detained in Sta. Rosa, Laguna and well-guarded. She said she pities the three senators Enrile, Estrada and Revilla who were implicated on the pork barrel scam based on what she read in the newspapers. The accusations against these three opposition senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Jinggoy Estrada and Ramon Bong Revilla are based on the incomplete report of the Commission on Audit. Justice Sec. Leila de Lima said during the hearing that their department cannot give out yet the report of the second and third batch against legislators because they cannot complete the evidences against them. Why cant she get the COA report of resident auditors in the assigned offices in the Senate and the House of Representatives and from the Department of Budget and Management? Since the hearing is about pork barrel, the Blue Ribbon Committee should have

invited the Secretary of Budget and Management who released the pork barrel of senators and congressmen. He can be asked to whom did he release the money? Was the release of P10 billion PDAF authorized by the President? Senators Koko Pimentel, Joker Arroyo, Panfilo Lacson, Pia Cayetano and even former House Deputy Speaker Arnulfo Fuentebella protested about the unauthorized use of their pork barrel. The Committee should have also invited the Cabinet Secretaries of the implementing line agencies that give the PDAF of legislators to non-government organizations owned by Napoles. Without their actions and decisions, the pork barrel scam cannot happen. The people are entitled to know everything. ******* Super typhoon Yolanda, the worlds strongest typhoon, hit the Central Visayas region with catastrophic damages the past week. Weather officials said Yolanda had sustained winds of 235 kph, with gusts of 275 kph when it made landfall. It made five landfalls with sustained strength of wind. Yolanda caused storm surges as high as all trees terrifying the people, destroying homes, buildings, roads, bridges, communication lines, etc.

Thousands were found dead and many are still missing. Those alive are hungry saying they have not eaten for several days and are appealing for food and water, medicines, clothing, etc. We have seen these on TV and it moves us with great pity and desire to help as soon as possible. This is one of the beautiful traits of the Filipinos which are also imbibed by foreigners residing in the country. Now, different private groups are exerting their effort to send aid and relief goods to the typhoon victims in addition to the Red Cross aid of the Philippines and the governments relief activities. Lets help the typhoon victims. We are lucky we are not the victims. There were also prayer warriors individually and in groups inviting the people to pray for Gods help and mercy. They are disrtibuting copies of the following prayer for protection from typhoon which we can pray in addition to other prayers: ORATIO IMPERATA Loving Father, Creator and Lord of the Universe, Your providence sustains the foundation of the earth and your wisdom guides the course of nature. We humbly implore you, to spare us from imminent threat of the typhoon, to keep us safe from dangers, and to call all the storms of life that threatens us. May we be secure in your loving hands, seek your Will in our experiences and serve you, as steward of your creation, with grateful hearts. O Virgin of Peafrancia, Our Ina, intercede for us, embrace us with your mantle of love and shield us from all calamities. We ask this through Jesus Christ, Our Lord, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Amen!

www.bikolreporter.webs.com
November 17-23.indd 2 11/18/2013 11:11:31 AM

ViSit oUr WeBSite:

NOVEMBER 17-23, 2013

BIKOL REPORTER

JUNIOR EAGLE CLUBS

MEETING FOR THE 7 NEW CLUBS PRESIDENTS

Final conference presided by Eagle Nathan A. Sergio, FPECI President, at the residence of Eagle Vicente S. Avila, Executive Director, with the officers of the SEVEN (7) NEW CLUBS to be inducted on November 23, 2013 at the Naga City Montessori School, Mayon Avenue, Naga City owned by Eagle Raymond L. Concepcion.

LIST OF OFFICERS AND MEMBERS

1. Jaime Poon - Chairman of the Board-FPECI 2. DC Nathan A. Sergio - President - FPECI 3. Vicente S. Avila - Exec. Director - FPECI 4. JC Delos Reyes - President -SBEC 5. Epifanio E. Barrosa - President - IEC 6. Ferdinand A. Alipopo-Reg'l. Coordinator - FPECI 7. Jesus C. Fortaleza, Jr. - Adviser - NCEC 8. Edwin G. Mancera - Adviser - CEC 9. Levi N. San Jose - President - MNEC 10. Josephine T. Ensano - President - MNLEC 11. Raymond L. Concepcion - Director - FPECI 12. William L. Yee Concepcion, Jr. - Director - FPECI 13. Philip T. Imperial II - Vice Chair of the Board-FPECI 14. Salvador G. Cajot - Adviser - FPECI 15. Joseph D. Cabral - Director - FPECI 16. Ramon P. Nonato - President - NCEC 17. Oliver S. Coronado - Seminar Director 18. Ma. Elizabeth R. Silava - Adviser - MNLEC 19. Catalino Y. Imperial, Jr. - NCEC/BUEC 20. Elmer C. Aure - President - BUEC 21. Rene R. Ramirez - President - UREC 22. Tomas G. Rentoy VII - Director - FPECI 23. Daniel P. Aureus - Adviser - IEC 24. Domingo B. Orcine - Director - FPECI 25. Lino C. Chan - Adviser - BUEC 26. Efren G. Santos - Legal Adviser - FPECI 27. Manuel P. Teoxon - Legal Adviser - FPECI 28. Jose Van B. Galvo - Adviser - MSBJEC 29. Domingo L. Delvo - SBEC/BUEC 30. Marcelino B. Jornales - SBEC 31. Crispino C. Raola, Jr.+ - SBEC/BUEC 32. Ernesto O. Abragan - SBEC 33. Froilan Ll. Jovellanos - SBEC 34. Efren DLR. Gulapa - SBEC 35. Julian C. An - SBEC 36. Domingo C. Yu+ - SBEC 37. Salvador M. Del Castillo - SBEC 38. Liberato S. Aureus+ - SBEC 39. Jose Fernando P. Obias - SBEC 40. Gregorio S. Baduya - SBEC 41. Luisito W. Chanco, Jr. - SBEC 42. Jesse M. Robredo+ - NCEC 43. Gabriel H. Bordado, Jr.-Adviser-NCEC 44. Errol P. Delea - NCEC 45. Virgilio S. Tirao - NCEC 46. Julio S. Oliva - President - PHMI 47. Antonio C. Katindig - President - NCEC 48. Francis Jake F. Fortaleza - NCEC 49. Claudio R. Regachuelo - NCEC 50. Romeo O. Dela Cruz - NCEC 51. Julian C. Lavadia, Jr. - Adviser-NCEC 52. Joselito SA. Del Rosario-Director -FPECI 53. Jeckery F. Santuyo - NCEC/BUEC 54. Oliver P. Creo - UREC 55. Joel A. Rafer - Adviser - UREC 56. Honesto DLS. Perez - UREC/BUEC 57. Joel A. Sioson - UREC 58. Eric B. Flores - UREC 59. Gil E. Belen - UREC 60. Elias O. Bayaban - UREC/BUEC 61. Dante S. Merador - UREC/BUEC 62. Salvador O. Boncacas+ - UREC 63. Rosalio A. Santos - UREC/BUEC 64. Ronnie C. Rabino - UREC 65. Raoul Ryan I. Roco - UREC 66. Luis B. Lee - UREC 67. Angel Q. Quiones - UREC 68. Godofredo M. Tesorero -President-CEC 69. Edmundo SJ. Duadico, Jr. -CEC 70. Danilo H. Sare - Director - FPECI 71. Alexander C. Parrera - CEC 72. Claro Salvador P. Cajot III - CEC 73. Vicente Alberto S. Garchitorena - CEC 74. Nicanor J. Villamer - CEC 75. Ramon P. Tesorero - CEC 76. Derrick P. Tesorero - CEC 77. Gilbert SJ. Adan - CEC 78. Flavio M. Sumayao, Jr. - CEC 79. Henry R. De Guzman - CEC 80. Gil A. Alamer, Jr. - CEC 81. Romeo S. Villaraza - CEC 82. Meliton M. Ponayo, Jr. - CEC 83. Sebastian M. Ebio - CEC 84. Miguel C. Casido - CEC 85. Roy B. San Ramon - CEC 86. Michael A. Marfega - CEC 87. Domingo Z. Ensano - IEC/BUEC 88. Romeo P. Llamera - IEC 89. Juanito S. Rivera - IEC 90. Juan B. Jana - Director - FPECI 91. Gregorio R. Montaa - IEC 92. Deogracias P. Mandanas - IEC 93. Maria Fe S. Temones - IEC 94. Serafin S.A. Rosales - IEC 95. Maria Luisa A. Avelino - IEC 96. Vince A. Alparan - IEC 97. Jose P. Sales - IEC 98. Roberto M. Morata - IEC 99. Edgar K. Velasco, Sr. - IEC 100. Emmanuel B. Bongon - IEC/ BUEC 101. Carlos R. Britanico - IEC 102. Oscar V. Reyes - Adviser - FPECI 103. Jose L. Grageda - MNEC/BUEC 104. Benjamin C. Concepcion, Jr. - MNEC 105. Charles R. Villaro - MNEC 106. Rolando O. Bosquillos+ - MNEC 107. Fernando C. Sacdalan - MNEC 108. Edwin M. Cheng - MNEC 109. Joel D. Nazarega - MNEC 110. Jonathan P. Huerno - President - CS/ICDEC 111. Gil P. Huerno - MNEC 112. Dionisio A. Buendia, Sr. - MNEC 113. Donnel Honesto M. Arcega - MNEC 114. Armando S. Cruz - MNEC 115. Danilo C. Manalang - MNEC 116. Elmer S. Baldemoro - MNEC 117. Jesus A. Abucar, Sr. - MNEC/BUEC 118. Rolando C. Eduardo - MNEC 119. Cecilia A. Amparado - MNLEC 120. Marissa P. Esmeralda - MNLEC 121. Aileen C. Custodio - MNLEC 122. Nellie G. Lillo - MNLEC 123. Gilda E. Asa - MNLEC 124. Mylene M. Aure - MNLEC 125. Nena O. Miguel - Adviser - FPECI 126. Fredolin U. Sabinorio - NEC 127. Delano M. Obia, Sr. - NEC 128. Reynold B. Belleza - NEC

129. Jose D. Caceres - NEC 130. Rolando A. Morandarte - NEC 131. Sherwin R. Oliva - NEC 132. Silvino D. Padrigone - NEC 133. Eduardo S. Madrid - Adviser - FPECI 134. Orlando E. Asiado - BUEC 135. Jonathan C. Pato - BUEC 136. Ruben F. Babar, Sr. - Media Consultant - FPECI 137. Gilbert C. Keng - BUEC 138. Alfredo F. Aracid - BUEC/SCEC 139. Emilio A. Tumala II - BUEC/CDOEC 140. Ferdinand A. Bernasor - BUEC/CDOEC 141. Voltaire L. Medina - BUEC/AREC 142. Sultan Cosme K. Macalungan -BUEC/GFEC 143. Rosalino M. Maghanoy - BUEC/AREC 144. Reynaldo B. Jampit - BUEC/AREC 145. Ramon L. Romualdo - BUEC/QCREC 146. Francia R. Vargas - Adviser - MNLEC 147. Alvin T. Fernandez - Director - FPECI 148. Jether P. Muasque - Director - FPECI 149. Eulogio Dennis F. Monte - Adviser - (CS/ICDEC) 150. Andres Salvador R. Guinio (CS 1st Dist. EC) 151. Elpidio P. Dacara - President (CS 2nd Dist. EC) 152. Joel S. Baylon - Adviser (CS 3rd Dist. EC) 153. Mercedes L. Samar - President (CS 3rd Dist. EC) 154. Franklin D. Rivero - President (CS 4th Dist. EC) 155. Domingo D. Palero - Coordinator (CS 4th Dist. EC) 156. Tomas L. Barandon - President (CS 5th Dist. EC) 157. Ramil L. Tadios - President (CN Dist. EC) 158. John Carlo M. Peras - Coordinator (CN Dist. EC) 159. Manuel Paul V. Malcampo (Uswag Riders EC) 160. Ruel P. Sanduco (Uswag Riders EC) 161. Noel J. Aban (Uswag Riders EC) 162. Amador P. Asuncion (Bicol Unified EC) 163. Emmanuel C. Medenilla (Bicol Unified EC)

November 17-23.indd 3

11/18/2013 11:11:31 AM

BIKOL REPORTER

ETCETERA

NOVEMBER 17-23, 2013

PELLmELL
jokee BOTOR-REYES
Who are the Real Robbers?
I got this reprint from a friend and found it very interesting. During the robbery in Guangzhou, China, a bank robber shouted to everyone.Dont move. The money belongs to the State. Your life belongs to you. Everyone in the bank laid down quietly. This is called Mind Changing Concept. Changing the conventional way of thinking. When a lady lay on the table provocatively, the robber shouted at her. Please be civilized. This is a robbery, and not rape! This is called Being Professional. Focus only on what you are trained to do. When the bank robbers returned home, the younger robber (MBA-trained) told the older robber (who has only Year 6 in primary school): Big Brother, lets count how much we got. The older robber rebutted and said: You are very stupid, there is so much money, it will take us long time to count. Tonight, the TV news will tell us how much we robbed from the bank. This is called Experience. Nowadays, experience is more important than paper qualifications. After the robbers had left, the bank manager told the bank supervisor to call the police quickly. But the supervisor said to him,Wait, let s take out $10 million from the bank ourselves and add it to the $70 million that we have previously embezzled from the bank. This is called Swim with the tide.Converting an unfavorable situation to our advantage! The supervisor says:It will be good if there is a robbery every month. This is called :Killing Boredom. Personal Happiness is more important than your job. The next day the TV news reported that $100 million was taken from the bank. The robbers counted and counted but they could only count $20 million. The robbers were very angry and complained. We risked our lives and only tool $20 million. The bank manager took $80 million with a snap of his fingers. It looked like is is better to be educated than to be a thief. This is called Knowledge is worth as much as gold! The bank manager was smiling and happy because his losses in the share market are now credited by this robber. This is called Seizing the opportunity, Daring to take the risks. Who are the real robbers here?

SURVIVORS FROM TACLOBAN CITY

ROY SAN RAMON

One family composed of 27 persons, 11 adult and 16 minors/children headed by Bienvenido Flores who owned

a catering business at Brgy. 59, Tacloban City fled to Metro Manila. They stop over at JMR Coliseum, Monday, Nov. 11.

By Danny O. Calleja LEGAZPI CITY - Giving importance to the immediate need to deliver relief goods to the survivors of super typhoon "Yolanda" in Samar and Leyte, the Gawad Kalinga (GK) Community Development Foundation is rallying Bicolanos to donate whatever they can share to those people who have nothing in their hands now but hope. GK, a Philippine-based poverty alleviation and nationbuilding movement, seeks to restore the dignity of the victims through a culture of caring and sharing as it adheres to the Filipino saying Walang Iwanan, which means leaving no one behind. By being our brother's keeper, we will help one another by giving the best for the least, in the spirit of ser-

The Sheer Joy of Teaching

By Ma.TereSa I. Cortez Iriga Central School, Iriga City

vice and friendship, Hayee Azaa, the GK provincial head for Camarines Sur, said in a statement Friday. He said the organization is seeking partnership with local government units and other private groups in Bicol for its Operation Walang Iwanan for the Yolanda victims. In a separate statement, GK Executive Director Luis Oquiena said Team GK is just one of the many organizations at the frontlines, and were focusing our efforts in most parts of the Visayan region. It has been one blow after another for our country. Just as we were about move to reconstruction efforts for Bohol earthquake victims, super typhoon Yolanda (International name: Haiyan) came and cut through our country like a scythe, bringing unprecedented damage throughout

the Visayas islands, Oquiena said. The impact area is very wide and the devastation is consistent with so many small isles and isolated areas that are left alone to survive, especially when there is no media coverage that can reach them, he said, adding But the scale of the problem is nothing compared to the overflow of generosity and heroism, as friends and partners from around the world rally together in 'bayanihan' to help the Filipinos rise again." GK, he said, is repacking and distributing food packs containing a combination of rice, canned goods and water. Each food pack costs P200 and is good for four to six meals for a family of five. We are targeting 50,000 food packs given the magnitude of the need, he said.

As of Nov. 13, because of the generosity of its donors and partners, 18,500 food packs have been repacked and distributed in hard-hit areas like parts of Iloilo, North Negros, Ormoc and Cebu. Despite challenges on logistics and weather, Team GK continues to push and cross the limits. Help us bring concrete hope to our fellowmen in their moment of greatest need, Oquiena said. As it conducts relief operations, Azaa said, GK is also planning the reconstruction phase. The greater need, he said, lies in building new housing units to relocate the displaced poor families, and "we need to do this as soon as possible to decongest the evacuation centers." It will cost P125,000 per home and initial estimates
(Turn to page 6)

I knew what my life would be all about when I decided to pursue my college and take up Elementary Education. Not that I was truly fascinated by teaching but I knew all the time education is a lifetime and fulfilling career especially for a woman who would eventually become a mother. I have no regrets. Of course teaching especially in the elementary level is no bed of roses. But it could also be heaven. In the first place, I find teaching a lot of fun especially because I have a fascination for kids being a mother myself of an only girl. They say that being with young people can make life very interesting. Doubtless, it makes aging very slow. Because with children I learned to laugh a lot and louder, I get to listen and know a lot of their stories especially their dreams. I realized they are very honest and frank in their opinions and I like that a lot. I discovered I have imbibed their frankness and honesty. As a teacher, I got to understand my pupils as persons, one different from another and this makes my understanding of people very keen. I realized that I am a big part of their lives and when they come to me with small heartaches (and also small wonders) I get the feeling that I am accepted and this makes my life as a teacher simply great. As a teacher I have become very creative in many ways. I discovered that I have artistic talents. I can now sing beautifully, dance gracefully, speak English with fluency because this is called for. I discovered that being a mother is no different from being a teacher. I do mother my children and I get their affection and respect without even asking them. Very important is the fact that I have opened a big new world for them. This is one of the best things that teaching has given me. Even after a year and many more I see my former pupils and even without them saying anything I get to see them differently, better, I know and I realized I have been a part of their change. It is not surprising that a teacher becomes a teacher for life. Many have settled for teaching the rest of their lives. We are all knowledgeable of people, some of them near relations or very close acquaintances who were teachers the rest of their lives, some had taught for some twenty or even more years and after teaching formally some even open schools for children and their lives as a teacher moves on with a new phase. I know the many hardships teachers undergolike leaving home and family to be in school for eight long hours and most often even more. The returns are not exactly very satisfying in material terms. There are many paper works one has to do and doing them in school time is not enough that the works have to be done as homeworks stealing the precious time at home for domestic responsibilities. But this has to be taken very positively. It means challenge to the dedication of a teacher that calls for positive acceptance. This, I personally find what other things make a teacher which I, personally, makes me a very fulfilled worker. Teachers, one and all. Grab the chance and opportunity to be a member of the worlds chosen peoplethe teachers.

INNER CHESS
By j. henry danican

November 17-23.indd 4

11/18/2013 11:11:34 AM

NOVEMBER 17-23, 2013

BIKOL REPORTER

BPI Leyte branches remain closed, other SM Sparkling Christmas Visayas branches open to serve the public
As of Thursday, November 14, all five branches of the Bank of the Philippine Islands in Leyte remain closed. These are the Justice Romualdez Street, Rizal Avenue, Marasbas (Senator Enaje St.), Ormoc City and Baybay City branches. All onsite and offsite ATMs are also not operational. However, all 60 BPI branches in the areas of Cebu, Batangas/Palawan and Panay are open. In addition, all 12 branches of BPI Family Savings Bank in the VisMin area are open to serve the public. The entire Ayala Group has mobilized its resources to help in the aftermath of typhoon Yolanda, through the restoration of vital services such as telecommunications, banking and provision of potable water, as well as relief operations in cooperation with government and partner agencies. For instance, Ayala Corp. has made an initial donation of P10 million to the Department of Social Welfare and Development. In addition to Libreng Tawag, Libreng Charging and Libreng Internet services, Globe Telecom has also deployed Cellsite on Wheels (COW) to Tacloban and Borongan. Manila Water has deployed a mobile water treatment plant to Bantayan Island. Those who wish to make cash donations through the BPI Foundation may make over-the-counter payments at any BPI or BPI Family branch or send remittances through any BPI Remittance Centers or BPI Europe Plc to BPI Foundation CA 00111530-89, Reference Number: Yolanda-(indicate donors name). Remittance fees for the donations are waived until November 30, 2013.

By ANA-LIZA S. MACATANGAY NAGA CITY - The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Camarines Sur chapter echoed its call for donors for its fund raising campaign to aid the victims of typhoon Yolanda in the Visayas. On Tuesday, the Red Cross Camarines SUr chapter led an 11-vehicle convoy carrying relief goods and humanitarian workers going to Samar and Leyte provinces to help communities devastated by typhoon Yolanda that rendered families homeless and with no provision of foods and shelter. PRC Camarines Sur chapter administrator Nanette Rodrigazo said that the organization has since Monday been accepting cash and in kind donations at their provincial headquarters in Panganiban Drive, Naga City just beside ABS CBN complex for the campaign. Red Cross Youth volunteers were mobilized to solicit cash donations through our Signature for a Cause campaign, that will call on offices and business establishments for their assistance. All donations and cash will be properly acknowledged with a Red Cross official receipt while donations in kind will be provided with acknowledgment receipt, Rodrigazo said in an interview. The Red Cross is involved not only in providing blood and rendering assistance in disaster-related activities and short-term palliatives but it also focuses in extending humanitarian services to vulnerable communities. At this time of great need of our unfortunate countrymen, let us all join hands and show them our compassionate spirit and humanitarian concern that we Bicolanos can be proud of, Rodrigazo added.

Rodrigazo also announced that the Red Cross also offers and will gladly assist anyone who needs 'tracing services' for those families who want to know the whereabouts of their relatives who are still missing up to this time. Donors may give their

donation or visit for inquiries the PRC Camarines Sur at Panganiban Drive or they may call at telephone number (054) 473943I and look for Ms. Cyril Llamado or Ms. Emily Vida. Red Cross can also personally pick up donations if requested.

Photo1: Mall goers started to feel the early spirit of the Yuletide season as they witnessed SM City Nagas grand Christmas launch held last Sunday, November 10. With this years theme Sparkling Christmas, the event center glitters with magnificent display of stars and Christmas trees which comes in various colors.

VIRAC, Catanduanes The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office here has reminded the public that the price freeze imposed by the national government also applies to Catanduanes. According to DTI Catanduanes provincial director Hegino Baldano, the price freeze came after the declaration of the national state of calamity due to typhoon Yolanda. He said that under price freeze, prices of basic necessities such as rice, pork, chicken, eggs, sardines and

liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the whole country are not allowed to be raised by the retailers for any reason. Prices of corn, bread, fish, milk, vegetable, root crops, coffee, sugar, cooking oil, salt, and other materials like laundry soap, firewood, charcoal, candles and medicines are also covered by price freeze. DTI also warned the public that violation of Republic Act 7581 or The Price Act says those guilty of violating a prize freeze order may face up to ten years in prison, or be fined anywhere between P5,000 to P1 million. Recently, DTI clarified that the price freeze is nationwide and not just in the areas hit by super typhoon Yolanda. The price ceiling is expected to be released by DTI within the week. -MAL/EAB

Photo 2 : Ribbon cutting: Mall manager Wesley Villanueva, Mayor John Bongat and family, Assistant mall manager Jeannette De Vera, Vice Mayor Nelson legacion, Pili Mayor Alexis San Luis Jr., DTI Director Edna Tejada, Louise Mabulo of Junior Master Chef and SM Little stars Naga winner Ariane Vergara.

Photo 3 : SPED Children and PWDs became the recipients of the early Christmas gift-giving.

FARMING TO FAME

CecilioAndUjar, Jr./JOrSaBia-SaSMedia

Vice Governor Fortunato Ato Pea hands over the plaques of recognition to CamSurs top agriculturists, all of Goa, CamSur, as Board Member Amador L. Simando spearheads the passage of the resolution to recognize their exceptional excellence and distinction in the field of agriculture while recognizing their invaluable contributions to the honor and glory of the province during the Sangguniang Panlalawigans Regular Session last Nov. 12 in Camarines Sur. TOP PHOTO Left-right: Ms. Myrna Conmigo Asor (Model Farmer 2013 in the FAO-Regional Asia and the Pacific last Oct. 16 in Thailand), Board Member Amador L. Simando, Vice Governor Pea, Goa Mayor Antero Lim (Top Performing Municipality in the Philippines during the National Organic Agriculture Congress of the Department of Agriculture (DA), Oct. 17), Ms. Adelia Quimpo-Magsino DAs Outstanding Rural Women Achiever in the Search for Outstanding Rural Women Achievers, and Ms. Arlene MoralesDayo (National Awardee as Outstanding Municipal Focal Person in the National Organic Agriculture Congress of the DA on Oct. 17).

LEGAZPI CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Bicol on Tuesday morning sent some 8,000 emergency family food packs worth P8-million for victims of super typhoon "Yolanda" in eastern Samar, a DSWD regional official said Tuesday. Arnel B. Garcia, DSWD Bicol regional director, said the initial shipment of the relief goods on board three container trucks left at about 8:30 a.m. Tuesday for Matnog port in Sorsogon from where it will take a roll on-roll-off sea vessel bound for Samar. Garcia said the shipment would take about six to eight

hours to reach the towns of Guiuan and Taft in eastern Samar where the relief items will be dropped off for distribution to affected families. He said once the shipment arrives at their destinations, the cargo will be turned over to the municipal social welfare offices of the towns of Guiuan and Taft in eastern Samar. Each family pack contains three kilos of rice, seven pieces of assorted canned goods and 10 pieces of 3-in-1 coffee. The DSWD in Bicol was put to task by DSWD Secretary Corazon Soliman to lead in conducting relief operations in Eastern Visayas, cov-

ering the towns and cities of eastern and western Samar. He said his office will assist the DSWD office in Eastern Visayas since the office there could not fully operate as its personnel are also disaster victims. The DSWD-Bicol has commissioned the Office of Civil Defense and the Albay provincial government to assist his office in preparing emergency food packs for distribution to affected families in western and eastern Samar. The relief task force intends to produce millions of food packs for distribution to people in affected towns of Samar. -PNA

November 17-23.indd 5

11/18/2013 11:11:34 AM

BIKOL REPORTER

NOVEMBER 17-23, 2013

DTI on close monitoring of prices

By MARLON A. LOTERTE LEGAZPI CITY - Team Albay - Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Bicol, comprised of 179 personnel, left this city Saturday, Nov. 9, for another humanitarian mission in Samar and Leyte that were hardest hit by typhoon Yolanda last Friday, Nov. 8. The eight-service-delivery-team contingent left on board 14 vehicles, including two coasters, two buses, four trucks and six support vehicles, with one ambulance, hit the road Saturday evening after a departure blessings administered by Fr. Nick Bilono of the Albay Cathedral and Major Denis Bulanday, chaplain of the Naval Forces for Southern Luzon. This 11th mission of Team Albay-OCD5 is the biggest and the most quicklydispatched mercy and goodwill mission as areas hardest hit by the recent super typhoon badly needed help, according to Albay Gov. Joey Sarte Salceda. The humanitarian mission is composed of the water sanitation team, equipped with filtration machine and water tank lorry, is composed of men volunteers from the Provincial Engineering Office; Provincial Health Office; Provincial General Services Office; Naval Forces for Southern Luzon; Armed Forces of the Philippines. The land and water search and rescue team will have personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection; Navforsol; 2nd Infantry Battalion and 9th Infantry Division; and Philippine Air Force-Tactical Operations Group 5. For the medical team, the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital will have a component of 24 experts, to be assisted by 12 volunteers from the Albay Health and Emergency Medical unit. The Department of Social Welfare and Development will send four psychosocial experts while the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office will have four volunteers for relief support. Other teams will render support services like kitchen/ operations from the PSWDO and the Governor's Office, 12 personnel; management team from the GO -- one, Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office -- four, DSWD -- four, and drivermechanics, four; communications team, ten; and Sangguniang Panlalawigan, five. We appreciate the spirit of volunteerism among Albayanos who wish to pay forward and return the favor for help received from the nation in so many periods of distress before," the Salceda said. Team Albay, added Salceda, makes a difference by infusing skills and resources that are difficult to find in the affected communities. "Thus, we are composed of well-trained and well-experienced personnel in search and rescue in land and water, in operating water filtration machines and water distribution, in providing medical health in post disaster emergency and in psychosocial care," he explained. He said that aside from the humanitarian mission, Albay province will give financial assistance of P500,000 each to Tacloban City and Samar as approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay. Meanwhile, Bicol regional director Rafael Bernardo Alejandro of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said the second batch composed of technical personnel of Team Albay-OCD 5 humanitarian mission left yesterday for Tacloban City.
By Bennie A. ReceBido SORSOGON CITY Consumers rushed to several stores in Sorsogon City, though not in panic, to buy commodities to sustain their needs lest super typhoon Yolanda would hit the province of Sorsogon. This was the scenario, four days ago, before the super typhoon passed and made landfalls in several areas in Visayas region. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Sorsogon made sure that amid the rush made, consumers rights were not violated by conducting a close monitoring of the prices of commodities in the market. In at least two big supermarkets in this city, cashiers confirmed that most of their buyers were anticipant of Yolanda. They said most saleable goods include candles, batteries, trash bags of medium and large sizes, canned goods especially sardines and noodles, among others. Aside from our regular monitoring, we have scheduled successive monitoring just to make sure that no one will take advantage of the situation, said DTI Sorsogon public information officer Senen Malaya. We are happy that we found no significant increase in the price of prime and basic commodities all throughout the time of Yolandas stay, he added. DTI, through its regional and provincial offices, monitors regularly the prices of basic and prime commodities. They, likewise, issues suggested retail price to guide consumers of the just and fair price of commodities that would prevail in the market. Malaya said that since August this year, members of the Local Price Coordinating and Consumers Affairs Council (LPCCAC) have made rounds in municipalities across Sorsogon to orient newly elected Mayors and their Councils on Republic Act 7581 otherwise known as the Price Act. Meanwhile, Malaya warned the consuming and buying public to be more critical and sensitive in choosing products to avoid deceit by counterfeiters. The warning was made following the raid conducted by operatives in one big supermarket and stores in the public market here seizing fake Nestle products and confiscated thousand of pesos worth of Magic Sarap food seasoning. Nestle Phils. Inc. filed complaint at Regional Trial Court (RTC) Manila Branch 24 over reports of counterfeit Nestle products being sold in this city.

By SALLY A. ATENTO LEGAZPI CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Bicol region has commissioned the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) and the Albay provincial government in this region to assist in producing millions of emergency food packs to be distributed to victims of super typhoon Yolanda in Western and Eastern Samar. DSWD Bicol director Arnel Garcia said the relief task force aims to produce an initial of three million food packs for distribution to some 300,000 people in affected towns of Samar. Garcia said DSWD Sec. Corazon J. Soliman verbally directed him to assist the agency in Eastern Visayas in their relief efforts which until now cannot fully operate since its personnel are also disaster victims. DSWD has spent P51.4 million to procure and repack 200,000 emergency food packs with each pack containing three kilos of rice, four

canned goods and other food items amounting to P257. Garcia said the task force will first focus on hunger mitigation efforts to cushion the psychological effects of devastation brought by Yolanda to the people in Samar. Psychosocial intervention will be done after distribution of food among victims. Meanwhile, Albay Governor Joey Salceda, Albay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) chairperson, has directed Eden Gonzales of the Governors Office to handle the massive

repacking efforts. Volunteers from various sectors have been repacking relief packs starting Monday at the Albay Astrodome, the area designated as the central repacking center. Salceda said everyone is welcome to volulnteer but must first register at the Albay Capitol lobby. They will work in two shifts from 1-5pm and 5-10pm. Everyone can also bring their donations anytime at the capitol lobby, DSWD and governors office. Items mostly needed are

food, medicine, clothes, candles, matchsticks, water and toys. Furthermore, OCD regional director Rafael Alejandro said his office will lead in conducting a Rapid Damage and Need Assessment (DANA) study in western and eastern Samar together with DSWD, Department of Health (DOH) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The DANA team will leave Monday to conduct the study. The data gathered, said Alejandro, will be used to determine the populations of

severely affected towns and villages together with the total number of emergency food packs to be prepared and distirbuted. He added that once they get the data, emergency food packs will be delivered immediately by air, land and sea transports.

FPECI SLATES 2Nd BICOL . . .

students, the event consists of six independent activities, namely: youth congress, walk-for-a-cause, on-the-spot drawing contest, amateur photography contest, defensive driving, and induction of officers and members of the Seven (7) New Clubs. Last November 17, a meeting was held at the residence of Eagle Vicente Avila, to fine tune the said activities and give some last minute tasking. In addition, a giftgiving activity this December was presented, discussed and agreed upon for the indigents of the towns of Buhi, Magarao and Sipocot, aside from those in Naga City. For the first time this gift-giving activity is to be held outside Naga City, where it is traditionally held by FPECI at Naga Citys Eagles Park. Present during the meeting were representative officers of various select organizations in Camarines Sur who will be inducted into FPECI and whose organizations will be given accreditation or affiliation certificates. According to Sergio, the FPECI is going to expand, go strong and become more relevant to Naga City and beyond.

GK LAUNCHES PROJECT TO HELP . . .

are about 5,000 units for a few municipalities in Leyte alone. This is also within our current capacity to implement but we are gearing up our capacity so we can build more, he said. In Naga City, the GK project immediately gained the nod of Mayor John Bongat and Camarines Sur 3rd District Rep. Ma. Leonor Robredo. Vice-Mayor Nelson Legacion, representing the Sangguniang Panlunsod, lauded the active participation of private organizations and individuals in joining hands in the noble endeavor. The extent of damage and the loss of lives that we have seen on television is more than enough to move us together in one direction of helping our brothers in Samar and Leyte and in other areas devastated by TS Yolanda," Oquiena said. GK Camarines Sur Coordinator Eric Salvino said they are targeting at least 7,500 food packs to be delivered to Samar and Leyte next week. The team is appealing for specific donations like food, rice, canned goods, bottled water and noodles -- including used clothing.

DPWH-BICOL TEAm TO ASSIST IN SAmAR . . .

drivers, mechanics/electricians and laborers. The first batch that brought with its road maintenance equipment was led by Catanduanes District Engineer Romeo Doloiras and Engineer Elmer Redrico of DPWH V and left Matnog Port in Sorsogon for Allen Port in Samar in the morning of Nov. 10. In the afternoon of the same day, another group led by DPWH V Regional Director Danilo E. Dequito followed, bringing with them packs of relief goods that poured in from officials and employees of the DPWH Bicol regional office and from the different district engineering offices (DEOs) in Bicol. People here also need candles, matches or lighters, flash lights with battery packs and if possible, surgical masks because the odor is becoming unbearable, said Dequito in a phone call to the PNA today from Tacloban City. He had served two years in Region 8 as assistant regional director. Dequito said the team will stay and work in these areas until directed to return to Legazpi City. We have seen on TV the sufferings of the typhoon victims, so we are intensifying our efforts to ease their burden, not only in infrastructure rehabilitation but also in providing foods and other stuffs for personal survival, said DPWH V Assistant Regional Director Ronnel M. Tan. Tan also heads the DPWH V Regional Coordinating Team for the Operation Tulong, stationed at DPWH, Barangay Rawis, Legazpi City with telephone numbers: (052) 481-9551 and 4820395 (faxtel). -PNA
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16.

Name of DeceaSed Date of Interment FLORENTINA O. VILLADARES October 2, 2013 JOSE R. MIRANDA October 5, 2013 SOLOMON M. TUASON October 3, 2013 GILBERTO P. TAPEL October 6, 2013 ADELINA O. CALAYO October 6, 2013 MARVIN P. LAGODA October 9, 2013 FLORENDA B. BONITA October 11, 2013 NATIVIDAD B. RONCESVALLES October 12, 2013 CESARIO A. NIOSCO October 12, 2013 MENELO B. PATRICIO October 17, 2013 ANTONIO N. GERONA October 15, 2013 ANITA B. YOUNG (NISHIYAMA) October 20, 2013 ROLANDO V. BEGUIA October 23, 2013 DOMINADOR DL. FLOTILDES October 24, 2013 FELIX M. ABAWAG October 26, 2013 CONSTANCIO P. VIDAL October 27, 2013

November 17-23.indd 6

11/18/2013 11:11:35 AM

NOVEMBER 17-23, 2013

IBP CAMSUR SPONSORS FUN . . .
fun for this one-day event but a time to give help to our brothers and sisters who were unfortunately ravaged by Yolanda, a super typhoon that hit the Philippine land with unprecedented damage that went beyond human imagination. Moraleda, who is also the President of the University of Northeastern Philippines (UNEP) said that the activity that took place November 16, Saturday at the universitys grounds not only endeavors to promote camaraderie, foster friendship and sportsmanship among the members of the IBP-Camarines Sur chapter but also to help typhoon survivors who were ravaged by the wrath of the strongest tropical storm that hit the country. Aside from the sports activities that we have lined up for this event, this gathering shall also be a launching pad of soliciting donations from lawyers for those devastated by Typhoon Yolanda. Ten (10) percent of the registration fees and a certain portion of the pot money of the card and table games shall be earmarked as donation to our brothers and sisters who survived the catastrophic typhoon, Moraleda added. A registration of P300.00 was collected to the partakers as registration fee to cover the operational expenses, tshirts and meals for the entire duration of the activity. A holy mass celebrated by Rev. Jose Cortes at the university chapel signaled start of the event and was immediately followed by a parade in the main thoroughfares of Iriga City. It consisted of uniformed men of the Iriga City PNP, UNEP Band and Majorettes and members of the IBP teams represented by their team colors. Four teams vied for the championship crown in every game category. The stamina of their respective members were measured in duathlon, volleyball, badminton, lawn tennis, table tennis, chess and darts. The basketball games was separately played by a special team composed of prosecutors, PAO, Naga Lawyers and Rinconada lawyers. The Red team consisted of players from the Department of Justice (DOJ) specifically city and provincial prosecutors, CPO, PPO and Public Attorneys Office and was headed by Prosecutor Richard Cu as Team Captain while the Green Team have the members of the Judiciary and lawyers from other government offices, commerce, industry and academe and was headed by Judge Efren Santos. Private Practitioners As team was led by Atty. Reynel Berina as Team Captain under the Yellow Team while Atty. Jesus Fernando Carpio led the team players of the Blue Team composed of Private Practitioners B. There were also games for a more reserved-type and non- athletic partakers. They can choose from the games like videoke, poker, tong-its and mahjong. The activity was also for health conscious practitioners who had a chance to try the health SPA, body massage, pedicures and manicure while their other colleagues are busy sweating it out on the ball ground. The day ended with fulfilled hearts , hearty laughter and fun and a rekindled spirit knowing that they have done something worthwhile, not only for themselves, but also for others.

BIKOL REPORTER

TABANG SA ZAMBOANGA, SAMAR/LEYTE

Early bird donors of clothing, rice and bottled water came from Mr. Tommy Lee and Ms. Michelle Acedillo of Naga City. More aid has been pouring in since then. This is spearheaded by the Federation of the Philippine Eagle Clubs, Inc., and facilitated by one of its chapters, the Naga City Eagles Club. For more info please contact Eagle Oliver S. Coronado, CP 0917-734-3875, Eagle Tony Katindig, CP 0905-737-9669.

LEGAZPI CITY - The Department of Health (DOH) Bicol regional office on Tuesday sent a 26-man medical team to assist in the disaster response operation in the super typhoon Yolanda-devastated Tacloban City in the province of Leyte, a DOH officer said Wednesday. On Monday night, a group of medical personnel led Dr. Gloria Balboa, DOH regional director, also left for Tacloban City via the Matnog port in Sorsogon, according to Jaime Guerrero, DOH regional spokesperson. Guerrero told the PNA that ally at Tacloban City at the soonest time possible. During the Chiefs of Offices meeting, the mayor also announced that he is foregoing his Christmas bonus and giving it as a financial assistance to Ricardo Casin, 71, a garbage inspector at Daet public market and hails from Tacloban City. Casin tearfully related that he did not know if his fifteen relatives, all living in Imelda Avenue - one of the most devastated areas in Tacloban City, are still alive as he does have any means to communicate with them. Tacloban City is home to some prominent Daeteos, one of them is architect Danilo Fuentebella, the city architect of Tacloban. - ROSALITA B. MANLANGIT

the Tuesday team is composed of doctors, nurses, sanitary engineers, social workers, embalmers and medical aides. The delegation brought along a water tank, medical supplies, medicines, water and sanitation equipment, hygiene kits and tents. Guerrero said the team will render medical services in its

destination for an initial of 10 days, depending on the medical service requirements it needs to perform in the area. While performing humanitarian service, the medical mission will also put up a 100-square-foot tent hospital and a small tent to accommodate people needing medical attention.

DOH social workers will also conduct psychosocial services to the disaster survivors. The group will also distribute water containers and hygiene kits for women containing lady's underwear, sanitary napkin, tooth brush, tooth paste and soap, Guerrero said. -PNA

November 17-23.indd 7

11/18/2013 11:11:36 AM

BIKOL REPORTER

NOVEMBER 17-23, 2013

CARD MRI insurance now beyond the PH shores

A tripartite memorandum of understanding among CARD Mutual Benefit Association, Inc. (CARD MBA, Inc.), CARD MRI Insurance Agency, Inc. (CaMIA) and Union Life Insurance Public Company Limited (U Life), recently took place in Thailand to formalize a non-exclusive framework partnership and to facilitate collaboration between CARD and U Life. With the MOU, the three Parties will explore areas of collaboration in terms of technical assistance, development and distribution of products and services and investment and ownership agreements. As indicated in the 2012 survey of the AIA Group, Philippines and Thailand has low insurance penetration rates which are at 1.1% and 4.3% respectively. With the said MOU, Parties expect that insurance provision in the Philippines, Thailand and other countries where they wish to operate will expand to reach more families. The three Parties have their own respective expertise in the insurance business: CARD MBA, Inc. is one of the leading microinsurance providers in the Philippines, CaMIA is an insurance agency engaged in selling both life and non-life insurance, and U LIFE is a life insurance company for cooperative members and for the general public in Thailand.

(From left to right) Mr. Thapakorn Poowamas - Deputy Managing Director of U Life, Ms. Elenita V. San Roque - ACCU Manager of Member Services, Ms. Virginia D. Baldo - CARD MBA, Inc. President, Mr. Sahaphon Sangmek - Executive Secretary and Managing Director of U Life, Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip - CARD MRI Managing Director, Ms. May S. Dawat - CaMIA Chairman of the Board and Mr. Picha Siriyodin - Deputy Managing Director of Union Life.

November 17-23.indd 8

11/18/2013 11:11:40 AM