What is Sandataan?

Congressman Sonny Escudero & partner

This is the Sandataan of more than two decades ago when from its inception in 1934, it evolved from a tradition to an institution with primary objectives of promoting the Bicol culture, unity & harmony among Bacongnons and the Bicolanos, render assistance & support to all socio-economic, civic & religious activities and projects that uplift Bacon.

Sandataan is also a silent renewal of the vows of friendships and brotherhood among Bacongnons-a bond that linked them to one another.

A time to relax after a year’s labor, meet old friends; renew acquaintances; dance to old refrains-relive old and fading memories; perhaps rekindle flickering fires of love.

And from among the young new loves are born.Old couples dancing to the favorite tunes of their youth –eyes lit with the fires of love.

Most of them are gone –departed from this world, others far & away. Age & distance renders them incapable of returning & sadly this old haunting poemcomes to mind:

JJ

The Light of Other Days

by Thomas Moore

When I remember all

The friends so linked together,

I've seen around me fall,

Like leaves in wintry weather,

I feel like one Who treads alone

Some banquets- hall deserted,

Whose lights are fled,

Whose garlands dead,

And all but he departed!

Thus, in the stilly night,

Ere slumber's chain has bound me,

Sad memory brings the light

Of others days around me.


Sandataan was organized before WWII primarily for social purpose among Bacongnons in Manila so they can see eachother every year in a very pleasant setting. Alumni Homecoming was also organized I think in early 1990's for the same reason. There was no political, religious or civic motivations. It was purely social. Anyone please correct me if I am wrong.

Simple worker


Actually, the Sandataan started way before WWII in Bacon, when Bacon was one of the leading towns in Sorsogon. The Sandataan was the event of the year attended by many from as far as Legazpi City, Bulan and Irosin. I can still remember that this was still the event to attend up to the early to mid 1950s.As far as I can gather, the Manila Sandataan was formed to replicate the Bacon celebration by those Bacongnons in Manila who could not go home to attend the Bacon event. This was a really good way to remember and re-live the hallowed event of the hometown.But wherever the Sandataan is held, it would and should always reflect the best that Bacongnons are capable of.

Bacongnon man sa ny



If remember correctly, the Maisog na Sandataan was held in Bacon for purely social reasons. All they wanted to do was to have fun and meet the New Year. In fact, there were no elections then. The 4 officers (President, Vice President, Secretary & Treasurer) would be wearing hats or crowns during the Sandataan Ball and whoever they put the hat or crown on will be the next person in that position. But it became one of the top events to go to in the whole province of Sorsogon. People from almost all the towns of Sorsogon and some from Albay made it a point to attend the Sandataan Ball in Bacon.

It's a shame that such an event which has become part of the traditions of Bacon has not been maintained in its former stature as far as social events go.

In recent years, you could see people in the middle of the dance floor in slippers and/or short pants in what is called the Sandataan in Bacon.One has to appreciate the Bacongnons in Metro Manila who are trying to maintain the old tradition of the Maisog na Sandataan. I hope they keep the old practices alive.

However, there comes a time when groups like the Sandataan are called to help their hometown.

And it looks as if the Metro Manila group has organized itself to be so.

If it has evolved into some form of civic association, it must be a relatively recent development. I, too, would be interested to know how it is organized, what its purposes are, what their accomplishments are, so far, and what their plans are to help Bacon.

But what is this I hear that the Metro Manila group has split into two? Is that true? And if so, why?

Anonymous


The Sandataan logo as it is now evolved from a Salakot with Machete but was redesigned to the present because of the adverse connotation the former signified.
Ramon Alcazar Dellosa is credited with the present logo design that was first used when the association was incorporated in 1981.
By:Former BSAI President 1983

Yes, the Sandataan still lives on. We, the present set of officers continue to carry on this tradition. This, somewhat became a commitment that we will share through generations. This tradition will never die. Come what may, we make it a point to celebrate its yearly activity every December 30th. Because we felt that Bacon is still Bacon, the glorious Bacon!

The legend that was Bacon! Anonymous was right, Sandataan was purely for social reason celebrated in Bacon then every December 31st to meet the coming New Year.

Selection of the new set of officers is done during midnight while the social dancing is going on by putting a hat on the prospective officer.

That is why we adapted the hat as the logo of the Sandataan Association here in Manila. But now, election is being done, likewise here in Metro Manila.The Bacon Sandataan Association (Metro-Manila) Inc., is the new name of the organization existing here in Manila and for the information of all Bacongnons, the association here in Metro Manila does not exist purely for social reason. The association has done numerous civic projects in Bacon. To name some:

The welcome arch at the boundary of Bacon and Sorsogon at Gabao, which was damaged by typhoon (Milenyo) which the local government has done nothing to restore it.

A public library located at the back of the former Municipal building is another project. It is now being used as a learning center by out of school youth under the program of the Department of Education. This year it was awarded First Prize as a functioning learning center in the Regional Level.
The Manila Sandataan, the Barangay Council of Bacon District and the DepEd (Non-Formal Education) joined efforts for this achievement. In our little resources, we continue donating old books and other reading materials to the library to make it functional.

Last August 17, 2008, the Metro Manila officers conducted a medical mission at Barangay San Roque, Bacon District in coordination with the Barangay council. Likewise, medicines were also donated to the Barangay of San Juan which was received by the Brgy Chairman.

Anonymous


Sandataan wil live on. Though Bacon municpality was lost but never its tradition.

This association in Metro Manila of Bacongnons is the only organization of Sorsoganon that is actively existing in Metro Manila, according to our beloved Congressman Salvador Escudero, who never fails to attend its yearly celebration, together with Kaka Llamas.

To all Bacongnons, please attend the yearly celebration, 75th Anniversary, at Jade Valley Restaurant located at Scout Torillo coner Scout Rallos, Quezon City (along Timog Avenue) on December 30, 2009. The affair will start at 7PM. Live Band will be assisting the occasion.

BSAI


The Sandataan lives on. third generation Bacongnons are now carrying the banner of Sandataan. I am so proud of you guys.

Ancient one

I am very happy that the Sandataan has embark on more civic and charitable projects. There are so many projects that could still be tackled to help the impoverished, but I am glad that efforts are in the way. Things have to start somewhere.

Anonymous 8877

Peace On Earth

Peace on EarthMeans so much for you and me

Feeling it in our hearts with joyAnd being sin free.

Peace on EarthMeans loving each other always

In good times and bad timesBeing a helping hand with a smile.

Peace on EarthMeans giving and giving

Not expecting anything backAnd yet feeling loved.

Peace on EarthMeans every day makes you smile

For you are happy being youAnd just being able to love.

Peace on EarthMeans so much to a child

He feels love and comfortAnd warmth in his heart.

Peace on EarthMeans we feel loved within

Not pain and sorrowBut peace in our being.

GIVE PEACE A CHANCE IN OUR LAND!

7:49 AM, December 06, 2009
El Muralla

Christmas message

Dear readers, on this beautiful season please pause a while so as not to lose sight of the spiritual message of Christmas. For some moments try to push aside the commercialism and materialistic clutter which the season has unfortunately evolved and try to reflect on what is truly valuable and authentic, our loved ones, friends and peace. For these and more, be very grateful.

God's Miracle Gift

Admit the clamor of this season,
Dear Lord, let us find time to reason Why we celebrate this day-
Pause to bow our heads and pray.
The miracle of Jesus' birth
Known to everyone on this earth; The day that gives the soul a lift;
To God, we thank Him for this gift. The gift that touches human heart,
The greatest gift God could impart; That gives full meaning to the soul,God's miracle, to make us whole.

By: Rene J. Dellosa

Bacon Sandataan Association (Metro Manila) Inc.

Logo designed by Ramon Alcazar Dellosa 1981

Bacon Sandataan Association (Metro Manila) Inc. 2008-2009

The Officers and members of the Bacon Sandataan Assn. (Metro Manila), Inc. Headed by Ms. CHERRY LATOSA-MENDENILLA, would like to invite all Bacongnons residing in Metro Manila and those from abroad who are planning to spend their Yuletide Season in the Philippines, for its yearly grand celebration.The 75th anniversary celebration will be held on December 30, 2009 at Jade Valley Restaurant, cor. Scout Rallos and Scout Torillo Sts. (near Timog Ave.), Quezon City A live Band will be assisting the Ballroom Dancing. Amount of the ticket is P300.00.Likewise, the association is accepting Ads for its 75th Souvenir Program.
For inquiries, contact Ms. Cherry Latosa-Mendenilla +63919 364 6171/+632 926 1063 (Office); Ms. Letty A. Posadas +63919 533 4493; Ms. Yoly N. Trapani +63921 990 3049; Mr. Rene D. Delloson +63919 638 1261
LIVE BAND WILL BE ASSISTING THE BALLROOM DANCING!

BACON SANDATAAN ASSOCIATION (Metro Manila) Inc. 2008-2009
Executive Officers

Pres - Cherry Latosa-Mendenilla
1st VPres- Alejandro D Espinola
2nd VPres- Senen C. Dollison
Secretary- Joy Fortes-Dollison
Asst Sec - Yoly Trapani
Treasurer- Leticia A. Posadas
Auditor – Resurreccion (Baby) A. Alanes
Asst. Auditor- Rolando O. Corral
PRO – Crescenciana A. ArnistoIday Ayo
Exec Asst – Rene D. Delloson
Exec Asst – Merle Tinay-Atutubo
Bacon Coordinator – Eddie D. Defeo

Board of Directors 2008-2009
Chairman - Cherry L Mendenilla

Members
Augusto D. Ayo
Miguel Ayo
Romulo Borromeo
Rolando O. Corral
Josephine F Dollison
Senen C. Dollison
Nannette B. Lapuz
Leticia A. Posadas
Estrella Doringo-Delos Santos

Advisers:
Cong. Sonny H Escudero III
P/SSupt. Rufino D. Escote
Atty. Romeo S. Morato
Hermingildo D Echano
Cleofe Diño
Jenny Latosa-Morales
Gloria Deyto

This celebration is also open to FRIENDS of Bacongnons who wants to celebrate with us. Come and join us and feel the hospitality of Bacongnons!

By: Rafael De Leon

Response to comments

To Dukha ng Bacon,

Hindi si CHIZ Escudero ang major proponent ng pagiging distrito ng Bacon. Si Mayor Leovic Dioneda ang may pakana na maging distrito ng Sorsogon City ang Bacon. Ng malapit nang matapos ang 3rd term ni Dioneda noon as Mayor ng Bacon yan ang naisip nyang paraan para patuloy ang "playboy" upsss...political career nya. Si Chiz, bilang Congressman noon ang siyang nagtulak ng batas para maging city ang Sorsogon kasama ang Bacon. To cut it short, sa maruming sistema ni Dioneda sa pulitika na pwersa nya ang BAcongnon na manalo sa plebisito ang YES to citihood ng Sorsogon kasama nga ang Bacon. Money,guns and harassment ang ginawa ni Dioneda, natakot ang mga taga Bacon at nanalo ang Yes vote. Unfortunately, ng magkandidato si Dioneda as mayor noon sa first citihood ng Sorsogon natalo siya ni Mayor Sally Lee. Sabi ngani sa BAcon, balik sa pag uway si Dioneda. Kan dai sa pwesto, siring sa dati, kun haen may gadan, yaon siya. Kun haen may fiestahan, yaon siya. pahiling (kuno)sa tawo na mahal ang mga BAcongnon. Otro election, binuligan na naman kan mga Escudero na makakandidato bilang Mayor. Nanalo. Balik sa dating gawi. Sabi sa Bacon, dakul na naman an narawrawan na mga babaye sa Sorsogon. Gamit an poder bilang Mayor. Kawawang mga babae. Yan si Leovic Dioneda. Gwapo (daa).

To Bacongnongs Living Abroad'

Sa Bacon mas maraming inpormasyon ang makukuha natin pag nakinig ka o namamalengke sa palengke ng Bacon. Pulitika man o ekonomiya. Hindi galing sa mga "may sinasabi" daw na taga Bacon na hindi mo nga nakikitang lumalabas ng bahay, moreso, pumunta ng palengke o kaya pumasyal sa ibang barangay ng BAcon,tapos mag bibigay ng mga comments dito sa Blog.

Number 1 pa rin na problema ng Bacon ngayon ang mga NPA na patuloy na gumagala at nanghihingi sa mga tao lalo na sa mahihirap na taga baryo. Bakit di ito matigil. Mga pulitiko ang dahilan. Ang mga bodyguard ni MAyor Dioneda ay NPA, ang mga bodyguard ng mga Lee ay NPA, gayon din ang mga Escudero. Tanungin mo ang mga pulitikong ito kung papano mahinto ang NPA sa Sorsogon at walang kongkretong kasagutan ang maibibigay.Mamamayagpag na naman ngayon ang mga NPA dahil sa nalalapit na eleksyon. CAMPAIGN TAX.

Sa ngayon sino ang dapat na botohan ng mga taga Sorsogon City sa pagka Mayor.One on one daw ang laban sa pagka Mayor ng Sorsogon city. Dioneda vs. Atutubo. Sabi sa plaza sa Bacon, may nag mayor na ngaya na tunay na lalaki (Dioneda) nan tunay na babaye (Sally Lee) an Sorsogon City, Purbaran ta man ngonian an "BINABAYE". Pero hindi ko kinakampanya si Atutubo, huh! Na isa daw B..........! Haaay Nakwuuu!

Si CHANCE OBSERVER, pig aapodan an atensyon ni Fr. Roy Eco kun ano an obserbasyon nya para matabangan an mga taga Bacon. I think you are knocking at the wrong door! Sabi ko na ngani bako ini an makatao ki tunay na hitsura kan Bacon sa ngonian.

Sabi pa kan sarong contributor digdi, na nagpapasalamat siya ta parehong DIMAANO na Padi an nagkakapot kan parokya kan Bacon ngonian. Pero an hapot ko, nata ta ngonian dai ki naako na maging HERMANO Y HERMANA sa parokya. An sistema daa ngonian sa parokya kan BAcon, grupo-grupo an naglilingkod sa simbahan kada semana. Ano daw tabi an problema, FR. DOUGLAS DIMAANO,? Naghahapot lang. Kulibat ko, asintado ini si Father mamadil ki bayong. Kaito, kan nadestino ini si Father sa Casiguran, yaon ini pirmi sa kakabas-anan aga nan hapon, namamadil ki bayong. arog baga kan bayong na tikling. pag uli kaan namimiwog an darang mga binadilan na bayong.

Pan o ta daw maboligan an mga taga Bacon?

Iyan an dakulang hapot, bako ining diskursuhan digdi sa blog, paharalangkawan ki English! An Bacon naghahalat na maging Bacon giraray. Padagos an pagtirios. Masakiton na an pagsira maski na ngani an pag oroma. Pirmi na sanang mauranon. An dagat, kun dai an mga kabalayan sa may pigsabunan, siguro ko, an tubig dagat maabot na sa dating munisipyo. Minsan dai ki eskwela sa Bacon East Central School ta pirmi nang pigbabaha, diit sanang uran. Arog kaan an Bacon ngonian.

Anonymous

A Brief History Of Bacon

Part Two
Chapter Six

From the Liberation Period up to and including 1962.

1945-1946
Municipal Mayor-----Gregorio Latosa, incumbent Vice Mayor
when the Pacific War broke out.
Municipal Secretary---Julian Lacre
Municipal Treasurer---Geronimo Garcia
Justice of the Peace----Concepcion U. Lim
Parish Priest-------------Rev. Fr. Francisco Bigornia

1946-1947
Municipal Mayors-----Gervacio Ducay
Ramon Azas
Municipal Secretary---Eduardo Deuna
Municipal Treasurer---Zenon Diesta
Justice of the Peace----Concepcion U. Lim. During the
latter part of 1947, Leon Gajo
Parish Priest------------Rev. Fr. Mariano Galinog

Since the establishment of the Republic of the Philippines, the municipal officials, have been, as in pre-war, elected. Their term of office has been changed from three to four years.

1948-1951
Municipal Mayor-----Juan Deocareza
Vice Mayor------------Felix Vargas
Municipal Councilors:

1.Claudio Digo
2.Eliseo Escalante
3.Pedro Dig, replaced by Norberto Despabiladeras in 1951
4.Serapin Diolata
5.Antonio Dioquino, replaced by Teofilo Dino
6. Sergio Deyto, resigned during the second year
Municipal Secretary-Julian Lacre
Municipal Treasurer-Zenon Diesta
Justice of the Peace- Hugo Dado
Parish Priest--------- Rev. Fr. Mariano Calinog; succeeded by Rev. Fr.
Gregorio Felix in 1950.

1952-1955
Municipal Mayor-----Leopoldo Figueroa
Vice Mayor----------- Rafael Domo
Municipal Councilors:
1. Irineo Ayo-----------for the First District
2.Gerardo Barrameda- for the Second District
3.Severino Jimenez--- for the Third District
4.Nicasio Deuna-------for the Fourth District
5.Juan Divina---------- for the Fifth District
6.Simeon Docog-------for the Sixth District

The Municipality of Bacon has been divided into districts to facilitate the
supervision by the councilors in charge of them.

The following are the districts and their components:
1. The Poblacion-------Under the charge of Vice Mayor
2. First District---------Talisayan, Sawanga, Balogo, Bon-ot
Buenavista
3. Second District------Gatbo, Canarum, Bato, Maycawayan
4. Third District--------Sugod, Sta. Teresita, Sta. Lucia, Salvacion,
Talaban, Bonga, Caricaran and Marirong
5. Fourth District-------San Isidro, San Ramon, San Vicente,
San Pascual, Gogon and Malabog
6. Fifth District---------Burabod, Balete, Batuhan, Bancal, San Roque,
Gabao, Maricrum, Cabarbuhan, Sta. Cruz,
Rawis, Calawan and Lip-ac
7. Sixth District--------Del Rosario, Sto. Domingo, San Juan, Gajo, Osiao
and Sto. Nino (Cagpandan)

Other Municipal Officials and leaders during this term:

Municipal Secretary—Ramon Dichoso for one year
Since 1953, Emilio Divina.
Municipal Treasurer—Zenon Diesta up to the first half of 1954;
Gavino Estur, Acting treasurer for a few months; then
Leodigario Elona succeeded as acting treasurer
Justice of the Peace---Hugo Dado
Parish Priest------------Rev. Fr. Gorgonio Felix
Chief of Police---------Pofirio Ariate

1956-1959
Municipal Mayor-----Leopoldo Figueroa
Vice Mayor------------Nicasio Deuna
Municipal Councilors:
1. Francisco Dellosa
2. Eriberto Deramas
3. Saturno Deyto
4. Irineo Ayo
5. Eusebio Discaya
6. Leoncio Duazo
Municipal Secretary- Emilio Divina
Municipal Treasurer-Inocencio Espedido. During the last year of
this term, Perpetuo Donina succeeded him.
Parish Priest----------Rev. Fr. Gorgonio Felix

1960 to the Present
Municipal Mayor-----Salvador Deduque
Vice Mayor------------Eriberto Deramas
Municipal Councilors:
1. Saturnino Deyto
2. Leopoldo Dichoso
3. Eusebio Discaya
4. Santiago Dometita
5. Leoncio Duazo
6. Benjamin Duka
Municipal Secretary-Ramon Dichoso
Municipal Treasurer-Perpetuo Donina
Chief of Police-------Daniel Ebio. Which he died in an accident
on Jan. 1, 1962, Ramiro Elli held the post
temporarily for a few months. During the
latter part of this year Juanito Dayson was
appointed Chief of Police.
Parish Priest--------- Rev. Fr. Gorgonio Felix

Cristina Jose, author

To be continued..

Bacon News Report

1.The First Bacongnon Parish Priest assigned in Bacon is Rev. Father Douglas Dimaano, the eldest son of the late Engr. Felix Dimaano and Fortuna Manduriao Dimaano(a former school principal). Douglas, as he is called among relatives, former classmates, and friends is well known as an achiever, highly intelligent with a very good sense of humor. Bacongnons happily welcome the good news.Another first in Bacon is the Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Romy Dimaano, son of Bacongnons too. First time that Bacon has 2 Bacongnons with the same surnames ( Dimaano), cousins who are assigned as priests in one parish.

2. There are 3 often talked about potential mayoral candidates in Sorsogon City. They are the incumbent Mayor Leovic Dioneda, incumbent Vice Mayor Edmund Atutubo and Bobet Lee, son of Gov. Raul Lee and Sally Lee. However, Dioneda and Lee have the most money to spend on this return political bout of the 2 candidates. Both are supported by political giants nationally and locally. Sorsoganons are expecting a titanic battle of 2 opposing parties and their supporters figuratively and possibly literally. Hopefully, no blodshed will flow in the extreme heat of the contest.

3. The 2-story Public Market in Sorsogon City is already completed, while the bridge in Bacon going to barrio San Juan is still being repaired. Bacongnons are saying that the bridge repair is motivated by the nearing election.

There is still no budget for the repair of the Bacon Public Market which is too cramp, leaking and extremely old.

4. The Catholic Cemetery in Bacon is fast running out of burial space. Almost every space has now been taken. The church is planning to buy the adjacent private land beside the civil cemetery owned by the family of the late Luis Duka. There is an undergoing negotiation with the family.
There is a seeming phenomenon in Bacon with regard to the daily dead Bacongnon which require a burial lot.
People are saying that the often occurences of death are a result of extreme poverty, lack of food and medical negligence. Some said the deaths are now proportionate to the increasing population in Bacon???

5. A seminarian in Sorsogon Carlo Ebrada, presently studying in the Divine Mercy School is so much in need of a kind benefactor to financially assist him in his goal to become a priest. Carlo, a struggling young man from Banao, Bacon is very poor but very passionate in his desire to complete his noble goal to be a priest. He is wellknown among his former teachers, friends and school principals ( Mr. Amado Manduriao, Jr.among them) in his elementary years as compassionate, highly intelligent, who received a lot of scholastic awards and with a natural leadership talent. Carlo, has a bright future if only someone generous will extend a financial hand. You will be proud of him someday.

Any kind person who wish to help may contact Mr. Amado Manduriao, Jr. of Burabod, Bacon, Sorsogon City, Philippines.

Chiz Escudero: missing the forest for the trees

Chiz Escudero: missing the forest for the trees
[I]f ever he made up his mind, [Senator Francis] Escudero said there was zero probability of him teaming up with Villar due to the C-5 double funding controversy the former Senate president was embroiled in.

Escudero declared his commitment to good governance and... said his conscience would not allow him to team up with Villar.

He said he would rather run with former president Joseph Estrada, who supported his candidacy for the Senate in 2007.

-- “Escudero: Yes to team-up with Estrada”

So let me get this straight. Chiz Escudero is hoisting his image and possible candidacy for higher office on the issue of corruption by refusing to associate with Manny Villar. Villar is currently battling charges of anomalous legislative behavior on the Senate floor. His case has yet to be brought to court, his guilt or innocence still far from settled. He may or may not be guilty, but in Escudero's mind, Villar's stench is now so great that it wouldn't be in his best interests to align his stars with the one politician who's been leading in most presidential surveys.

However, Escudero would gladly team up with Erap. As in Joseph Estrada, the ex-president booted out of office and eventually convicted of plunder by a court of law after a trial that lasted more than five years, during which Estrada and his top-flight lawyers enjoyed all the opportunity to present his defense in full. The trial itself was preceded by a closely-watched Senate impeachment process that, while prematurely aborted, brought to light serious proof of crimes and misdemeanors by Estrada and his minions.

The pardon Estrada received from GMA was no absolution; it did not expunge his guilt or declared him innocent of his crimes. On the contrary, the pardon could be given only after he had been convicted in court, after his perfidy had been conclusively established. Officially, irrespective of the presidential remission he now wields with shameless alacrity, Estrada remains the country's first plunderer-president.

How can Escudero justify his professed advocacy for good governance and anti-corruption when he shuns Villar but embraces Estrada?

I happen to be from Sorsogon, the province Escudero represented as a congressman and the home base for his quick leap to the Senate. I am one of his constituents, and he is, in effect, my representative in Congress. Not that I am proud of it. I have never voted for Escudero, and have never bought into his putative promise as a new kind of modern, no-nonsense, trapo-busting politician. His record speaks for the man.

During the height of the Estrada scandals and EDSA II, Escudero stood by Estrada all the way to the end. His only defense against the avalanche of evidence testifying to Estrada's gargantuan incompetence and corruption in office was loyalty--loyalty then, and loyalty now, to the kingpin who had invested in him and helped fast-track his ascent in politics and the celebrity circuit. It's possible he had sincerely believed in Estrada's innocence, which only raises the question--especially in light of his fulminations now: How bad a judge of character is he?

Then, in what was clearly an act of revenge for Supreme Court Chief Justice Hilario Davide's tough, even-handed management of the impeachment trial, Escudero and a bunch of young congressmen under Danding Cojuangco's Nationalist People's Coalition tried to impeach Davide on the flimsiest of grounds. That outrageous act put the country at risk of a full-blown constitutional crisis. Does anyone remember now what Davide's supposed sins were? Does anyone remember, for that matter, that Escudero was one of the leaders of a youthful gang of rising political stars who attempted to hijack the Republic to their bratty, dangerous tantrum, who were perfectly willing to rend this country apart and put it through a potentially disastrous upheaval?

Quite a number have been taken in by Escudero's slick facade--the obvious intelligence, the preternatural calm and self-assurance, the flawless, eloquent command of Filipino. As with most everything else in this sentimental country, he straddles politics and showbiz with ease, and Escudero himself is not shy about banking on his Internet-savvy rock-star status particularly among young people, helped along by vapid media commentators who have hardly called him out on his political behavior. He has compared himself and his youthful politics to US president Barack Obama.

But scratch that PR-buffed persona by examining his history and what do you get? A man so afflicted by myopia that he sees the trees and misses the forest. A man whose moral compass tends to swing not only narrowly but selectively. Every time he rails against GMA for corruption, I remember TV interviews of him strenuously defending Estrada when his favorite president's Boracay mansion was all over the news. When he slams the Arroyos' lavish spending, I remember NOT hearing him condemn the Bacchanalian lifestyle that Erap and his cronies indulged in. And now that he sees fit to twit Villar for his supposedly crooked ways, he then proclaims his fealty to the biggest plunderer this country has managed to convict so far.

Estrada, GMA, Villar--all of them reek of rot and corruption, if by varying degrees. If Escudero were the least bit intellectually honest, if he were even half-serious about promoting the new kind of clean, honest, conscientious governance that he has loudly pledged his brand of public service to, he'd be denouncing ALL of them, and not only those whose political patronage has not been as generous or accommodating enough to earn his tribalistic sense of loyalty and gratitude.

A plague on all their houses. But reserve an extra swarm of locusts and frogs for a hypocrite like Francis Escudero.

By Gibbs Cadiz

New Voices: U.S. should support all its troops, including gays -- OrlandoSentinel.com

New Voices: U.S. should support all its troops, including gays -- OrlandoSentinel.com

By Joe Dellosa

Special to the Sentinel

August 1, 2009

It's time to end the "don't ask, don't tell" policy that prohibits openly gay people from serving in the military.

U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy, a Democrat from Pennsylvania and an Iraq War veteran, has been pushing the Military Readiness Enhancement Act, which would eliminate "don't ask, don't tell." It is sound, timely legislation that strengthens America.

The numbers are staggering. Since 1993, more than 12,000 servicemen and -women have been discharged under the "don't ask, don't tell" policy. Of those, about 60 were Arabic linguists, positions that are so critical and difficult to fill that, according to a 2008 Christian Science Monitor article, the Army considered offering retention bonuses of up to $150,000 to native Arabic-speaking soldiers.

"Don't ask, don't tell" takes a severe financial toll as well. In 2006, a University of California Blue Ribbon Commission concluded that the cost of implementing the policy from 1994 to 2003 was more than $363 million.

Most of these discharges aren't the result of inappropriate or unprofessional conduct. The mere discovery and lack of denial of one's homosexuality is enough to warrant a firing. Stephen Benjamin, a former Arabic translator in the Navy, wrote in a 2007 New York Times column that he was fired under the policy after his instant-message transcripts with a friend were found. The transcripts contained nothing remarkable, Benjamin wrote, except that they happened to indicate that he's gay.

If polls are any indication, the American public generally supports repealing "don't ask, don't tell." A December 2008 CNN/Opinion Research poll of Americans found that 81 percent believe openly gay people should be allowed to serve in the military. There is strong bipartisan support, too; a May 2009 Gallup poll put support for openly gay people serving at 58 percent among Republicans, 67 percent among independents and 82 percent among Democrats.

Those who oppose repealing the policy are often quick to cite tepid support for the policy's repeal among those serving in the military. And it's true. An October 2006 Zogby poll of current and recent military service personnel found that only 26 percent agreed with allowing openly gay people to serve; 37 percent disagreed, and 32 percent were neutral.

But in the same poll, 73 percent said they feel "very" or "somewhat" comfortable in the presence of gay people. Among those who know someone in their unit is gay, 66 percent said the presence of gay people had no impact on personal morale, and 64 percent said it had no impact on the unit's morale.

This suggests that, even if opinions about "don't ask, don't tell" are mixed among service personnel, there's already an established comfort level about gay people serving in the military, and that comfort level increases for those serving alongside them.

I'm not in the military, and I doubt I have the guts to join voluntarily. But I have nothing but gratitude for those who put on a uniform to stand up for justice and improve the lives of people around the world.

And that's why this matters. When we say we support the troops, for that to be more than a slogan on a magnetic yellow ribbon, we have a responsibility to honor everyone — gay and straight — who does what the rest of us won't. Every day that the "don't ask, don't tell" policy remains in force is a day we fail at that responsibility.

Only nine Florida representatives have co-sponsored Murphy's bill, with Reps. Corrine Brown of Jacksonville and Alan Grayson of Orlando doing so last month. Other Central Florida representatives, including Ginny Brown-Waite, John Mica, Adam Putnam, Bill Posey and Suzanne Kosmas, haven't — but they should.

This is, after all, an apolitical issue, one of national security and respect for all who serve. Murphy deserves our support and, more urgently, the support of his House colleagues.

E-mail submissions of 600 words or fewer to newvoices@orlandosentinel.com or mail them to New Voices, MP-218, Orlando Sentinel, 633 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801. Include a high-resolution JPEG image or photo.

Copyright © 2009, Orlando Sentinel

"Sorsogon one of the poorest.."

NACIONALISTA PARTY ALREADY TAKING POTSHOTS ON 'CHIZ' ESCUDERO OF NPC
MANILA, AUGUST 18, 2009 (PHILIPPINE STAR) By Delon Porcalla - Election season is here, and the gloves are coming off.
This early, Nacionalista Party (NP) spokespersons are taking potshots at Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero of the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC).

Lawyer Adel Tamano said Escudero would surely lose in the May 2010 presidential elections if poverty were the barometer, since his home province of Sorsogon remains one of the poorest in the country.
Tamano said that Sorsogon should have been the “showcase” of the opposition senator.
“Chiz is a friend, but I think anybody who aspires to be president must be able to show that he has done something for the people. I think it’s fair to ask: What have you done for your district?” he asked.
“He needs to show that he has proven something,” he added.

Tamano, who belongs to the NP senatorial slate of projected standard-bearer Sen. Manny Villar, also cited the long period of time in which Escudero could have best helped his province, since he served as Sorsogon congressman for three terms or nine years until 2007, when he became senator.
“Chiz is very intelligent and articulate, but people will ask: What achievements has he done to deserve our support? He spent nine years as a congressman, it’s better if we have a basis to show how your district developed,” he added.
Tamano’s fellow NP senatorial candidate, former Cavite representative Gilbert Remulla, echoed the same sentiments.

The relationship between Escudero and Remulla, former colleagues in Congress, went sour in May 2007.
Escudero, who will be turning 40 on Oct. 10 and therefore qualified to run for president, is among the frontrunners in the surveys, ranking third in the June 19-22 survey of Social Weather Stations.
According to his website (www.chizescudero.com), the former congressman said one of the laws he helped pass was Republic Act 8980, entitled “An Act Promulgating a Comprehensive Policy and a National System for Early Childhood Care and Development.”

House records showed that in the nine years Escudero spent as congressman of the first district of Sorsogon, he helped pass eight laws – four broadcasting franchise laws, two local measures including Sorsogon cityhood, one renaming the Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS) to DepEd and the last regulating the practice of veterinary medicine.
His father, Salvador III, a veterinarian by profession, has since taken his congressional seat back, following the election of his son to the Senate in 2007.
Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi
© Copyright, 2009 by PHILIPPINE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE All rights reserved
PHILIPPINE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE [PHNO] WEBSITE

Huring Paaram - Last Farewell in Bicol Dialect

Huring Paaram- Last Farewell in Bicol dialect
Bicol Translation of Last FarewellBicol: Huring Paaram
Ni Dr. Jose P. Rizal

Sinurat sa Bicol ni Jose T. Figueroa

Paaram saimo banuang minamahal, dagang pinaorog nin astro nin aldao,Perlang magayonon, mutia sa sirangan, maguinhauang Eden, ica babayaan.Aco mapa-gadan ta saimo I-alay buhay cong mamondo asin malipongao,Cun cuta na maogma, masarig, mabansay, lalo cong idolot ngani cang ma-buhay.

Sa campong labanan minaagap dacol, buhay hinahatod daing orong-orong,Di na iniisip cun anong aabton, lango an cabagay cun momoninongon.Dustang bibitayan, cetro o corona, madaog, manaog, magsaquit, mag ogma,An gabos na ini ranya sa sainda cun iyo an hagad can satuyang banua.

Can aco sadang pa, culang pa nin boot, caso dacula na sangcap na nin cosog,Ica, iyo sana sa isip an laog, ica daing iba an pinngangatorog.¡Daing hanap cundi, oh, mutia nin dagat! An luha sa mata obos na mahoblas,Angog mong magayon ma-panong liuanag, sa puso ma-hale an tacot, an ngirhat.

Aco magagadan oras nin pag-sinag sa licod nin diclom, aldao nin libertad,Cun hanap mo, banua, dugo mag-uarasac, uya an dugo co minsan anong oras.I-uasac mong biyo, di mo pagnyanongan, cun mataong curay sa aldao na iyan,Tara sacong laom dugo co uarasan, gayon nin banaag na bagong somirang.

Banuang dayaday co na pagñatorogan, mau-ot cong bolanos sa bilog cong buhay,Ma-buhay ca banua! Iyo an agrangay caining ma-hale, saimo ma-suhay.Ma-buhay ca! Oh, labilabing gayon, na aco ma-pucan, ica an bomangon,Ica an ma-buhay, aco an gadanon, asin an bangcay co sa lindong mo ilobong.

Cun sa linobongan co sa hodian na aldao, sa tahao nin doot igua nin somongao,Macumbabang burac saca mo matanao, hadoque ta iayn ancalag cong tunay.Hadoque ta nganing sacong ma-matean sa tahao nin lipot nin sacong linobongan,Masangayang init nin saimong hangao asin an managum na simong pagmahal.

Hare pag-olanga liuanag nin bulan, can boot somongco sa sacong linobongan,Aldao pabayae oras nin pagsirang cun i-alay saco an saiyang bangrao.Di mo pag-pogolon tomangis an doros, an gamgam tomogdon sa sacuyang cruz,Gamgam togotan mo na an pagcamoroot ipag-roquiao nia sa maogmang tigñog.

Pabayae an aldao sa cosog nin init, oran na ma-holog ibalic sa langitNa day nang ati, lobos nang matubis, ta caiba caiyan sacong hinanaquit.Pabayae an gabos na sacong catood magnangag-tangis sinda caining pag-talicod,Cun iguang ma-mibi sa sacong panongod, hagada man, banua, murauay co sa Dios.

Hagada sa lagñit an camoninogñan can manga gadan na simo an dahelan,Can magña aqui mong nasa bilangoan, ipaquemaherac an caguinhauaan.Asin magña inang sa luha nalamos, balo patin ilo tagob nin pag-tios,Sa gabos caini hagadang padagos hanap mong libertad ma-camtan mo tolos.

Cun sa labing diclom nin banguing lipotoc, ma-para sa mata an linobongan gabosNa day na cundi gadan an magtanod, moninong galange, hero mo i-ontoc.Herote nin marhay an camoninongan, misterio nin Bangui di mo pag-ribocan,Cun maca-dagñog ca tigñog na ano man, aco iyan, banua, simo nagroroquiao.

Cun an linobongan co lingao na nin gabos, day na nin tanda, day na minsan cruz,Arado togote asin an asadol, ronoton, i-uasac dagang minaosbol .Asin an abo ngapit can sacuyang bangcay, cun manga ronot na gabos sagcod tolang,Bago mapa-balic sa day nin saysay, sa simong alfombra maguin alpog lamang.

Cun siring day na sa saco nin haros na aco lingawan, paraon padagos,Sa panganoron mo, patag patin bolod di co oontocan sinda nin paglibot.Sa ogong, sa bac-ho, sa pag-aagrangay, sa manga pag-auit asin sa pag-roquiao,Saimong pagdangog tingog cong malinao, ta tingog mo aco sagcod noarin man.

Ma-saro sa curay, sa bangrao ma-salac, ma-iaba sa amio nin gabos na burac,Sa pagolit-olit, sa puso mo i-bogtac dalisay cong pag-tobod na di mapa-hamac.Inang Filipinas, saquit nin saquit co, huri cong paaram gñonian acoon mo,Ama patin ina iualat co saimo, sagcod pa an gabos na minamahal co.

Aco ma-paduman sa dagang mapalad, na daing oripon, verdugo, o palpal,An pag-tobod day iquina-gagadan, haros ta an Dios sana an nag-hahade duman.Paaram ina co, ama, magña tugang, buhay nin buhay co, saco nag-ataman,Paghale cong ini pag-pasalamatan ta iyong ma-tapos manga casaquitan.

Paaram, oh!Agom na nagherot saco, taga ibang daga ranga caining puso,Paaram sa gabos, di camo mag-mondo ta an cagadanon iyong pag-hingalo.

Note: Some words with gn have to be revised.

Why there couldn't be a Filipino US President

Top 10 Reasons Why There Couldn't Be
Filipino-American USPresident
By David Letterman

10. The White House is not big enough for in-laws and
extended relatives.

9. There are not enough parking spaces at the White House
for 2 Honda Civics, 2 Toyota Land Cruisers, 3 Toyota Corollas, a
Mercedes Benz, a BMW, and an MPV (My Pinoy Van).

8. Dignitaries generally are intimidated by eating with their fingers at
State dinners.

7. There are too many dining rooms in the White House -
where will they put the picture of the Last Supper?

6. The White House walls are not big enough to hold a pair
of giant wooden spoon and fork.

5. Secret Service staff won't respond to 'psst...
psst' or hoy hoy hoy

4. Secret Service staff will not be comfortable driving the presidential
car with a Holy Rosary hanging on the rear view mirror, or the statue
of the Santo Nino on the dashboard.

3. No budget allocation to purchase a Karaoke music-machine
for every room in the White House.

2. State dinners do not allow 'Take Home'.

AND THE NUMBER 1 REASON WHY THERE COULDN'T BE A
FILIPINO-AMERICAN U.S. PRESIDENT IS....

1. Air Force One does not allow overweight Balikbayan
boxes!

Bacon Church

This is the newly painted Bacon church. Look closely...

Notable Bacongnon

AIM fellow gives learners hope for a better life

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By Ma. Rosanna Mina, abs-cbnNEWS.com | 06/08/2009 11:31 AM

Printer-friendly version | Send to friend | Post Comment

It has been 31 years since Lorna Dig Dino, Ph.D. started teaching and it seems like there is no stopping her from continuing her vocation. She said she plans to stay in the education sector for as long as she can to inspire more people, students and educators alike.

Currently the director of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP), Dr. Dino told abs-cbnNEWS.com that she is passionate about her work because of the “opportunity to assist learners, to give them hope for better lives.”

“Now, I take all the opportunities to inspire other educators to happily make a difference at DepEd, not because we are mandated but because we truly care,” she said in an e-mail correspondence.

Dino shared that it is the classroom where she belongs. She started her career in 1978 as a high school teacher at Sorsogon College of Arts and Trades.

“I found out after around three years of teaching, when I worked in the office for a few months as a researcher that I am more relevant and happier in the classroom than in the office,” said Dino.

Before being at the helm of NEAP, she held the DepEd positions of Teacher 1, Teacher III/Teacher-in-Charge, Administrative Officer Designate, Education Supervisor I, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent and Schools Division Superintendent of Sorsogon.

Prior to her DepEd work, she was vice-president for Academic Affairs, Dean of College of Arts and Sciences, Academic Supervisor, Graduate and College Professor, Thesis and Dissertation Adviser, Secondary School Teacher, and English Teacher.

“Being in the education sector is being part of the greatest chance to influence the Filipino children to be the best that they can be. Doing my job is an opportunity to influence others to truly love the learners and make a difference in their lives despite constraints,” she shared.

However, she also cited a downside. “Working in the education sector takes me away from home most of the time. But I have the full support of my husband and my children in what I do for the country.”

Dino, fondly called “Lorns,” is a mother of four. Her husband, Butch, is a medical officer. Her eldest child is a community developer while the rest of her children are students. Two are in college while the youngest is in high school.

Lorna is the only educator among her family of seven siblings although some of her aunts (cousins of her father) were also teachers.

“When I was in the elementary school and in high school, I just wanted to read and write but I never thought of teaching or pursuing any profession possibly because career path was never an issue at home not even in school,” she added.

Born on June 13, 1958 in Salvacion, Bacon, Sorsogon, Lorna finished elementary at Salvacion Elementary School. She attended the Annunciation College of Bacon for high school and earned her Bachelor of Science in Education, Social Science from Philippine Normal College. She also has a Bachelor’s degree in Education, English from the Annunciation College of Bacon Sorsogon Unit Inc.

She also studied Bachelor of Science in Education, Values Education at St. Louise de Marillac College in Sorsogon City. She even has 32 units of Bachelor of Laws from the University of Santo Tomas.

Her master’s degree in education in Administration and Supervision was also earned from Annunciation College. She finished her doctorate degree on Education Management from the University of St. Anthony in Iriga City.

In addition, Dr. Dino also has a diploma in Language Studies for Teachers from the University of the Philippines Open University.

“Although, I never aspired for promotion when I took my graduate studies, the diploma is useful during promotions,” she said of her thorough educational background. “The most important thing though is—graduate studies made me realize that there are many more things to unlearn and learn.”

Feasible goals

As the NEAP director, Dino exercises over-all supervision and management of the day-to-day operations of the Academy.

She also manages the delivery of training programs with the staff in consultation with the Central Office Management.

She sets the priorities and direction of NEAP based on the DepEd thrusts. She is directly involved in crafting and implementing new programs for the NEAP staff and the Academy’s clientele.

In addition, she networks with other offices at the Central, field offices and organizations on policy formulation or modification, clientele, funding, delivery of training programs, monitoring, assessment and evaluation.

She even serves as a facilitator or resource person and performs other related tasks assigned by the DepEd Secretary or Undersecretary.

“My acceptance of the invitation to join the DepEd was also inspired by my prayer prior to the EMT, ‘Let those who have the heart and make a difference pass the exam,’” she related.

EMT is the Educational Management Test (EMT), the qualifying examination for Superintendents at DepEd.

“Knowing that my husband and the rest of my family are capable of managing the family-owned school, with their blessing, I accepted the opportunity to directly help in the basic education,” noted Dino.

As one who is directly involved in the education sector, she said she dreams for the “public school system, particularly the basic education system to provide a very strong life’s foundation for all school-aged children that will include the tools for life and life-long learning for them to become the best that they can be.”

When asked if such dream is attainable, she answered, “Yes! I am not alone in this. Many Filipinos share this dream.”

She also believes that the proficiency level attained by public school students in national achievement tests can be raised to 75 percent in three years. “It has been achieved by other schools. Hence the same can be attained by others.”

While there is mounting concern over the education sector, particularly the problems hounding public schools, Dino commented that “the public school system is fairly doing well.”

She said this “considering the number of learners and the deficiencies in terms of number of teachers and other resources in many schools.”

According to her, the DepEd has conducted numerous trainings to empower its officials and enhance their commitment to transformational leadership, which she cited as what may be the “only way” to improve the public school system.

“This starts from personal ownership of and response to educational issues by education leaders to co-ownership of the vision and mission as regards the issues which lead all the stakeholders to create innovative solutions,” she explained.

“This ensures personal involvement while seeking other stakeholders and partnering with them to solve the issues,” she added. “The process likewise requires complete understanding of the complex issues and letting go of traditional solutions to be able to create new ones.”

“When all education stakeholders work together, lack of funds will not be an issue. They will together mobilize resources from different sources,” she said.
Dino noted that she will continue to work for transformational leadership in the school system by using the Bridging Leadership Framework at the NEAP.
“I will create other opportunities to develop other transformational leaders,” she remarked.

“School-Based Management (SBM) will never work to enhance the quality of education in the different elementary and public schools unless the school heads are bridging or transformational leaders,” she said.

“These are the school administrators who have personal commitment and have engaged all education stakeholders to respond to priority issues in their respective stations,” added Dino.

She shared that the NEAP started this year an Induction Program for passers of the Qualifying Examination for Principals, which is a training program on Bridging or Transformational Leadership.

She said that transformational leaders should be able to create an innovative leadership curriculum “where Filipino educators will be trained to completely understand education issues, identify all causes and the causes of the causes, listen more, engage in dialogues, to identify, engage and manage education stakeholders who are part of the education divides.”

She hopes that such an innovative leadership curriculum will lead to decentralization and participative management in the public school system.
“The Bridging Leaders can never be transformational leaders if there is no decentralization policy,” she said.

“The public education sector, with the 43,000 public elementary and secondary schools, can never deliver and continuously improve the quality of education unless the school officials and other field officers like the Schools Division Superintendents and Directors are empowered to act within the policy set by the Central Office,” she commented.

Bayanihan system

For Dino, decentralization and participative management “can contribute to the improvement of public school education.”

“These indicate a great amount of trust and confidence in middle and school management by the Central Office Management which inspire field officials to be more dedicated and creative in addressing local issues without waiting for an order or memorandum from the Central Office,” she explicated.

She also mentioned that giving school officials the freedom to plan their own school programs will not ruin the coherence of the public school system curriculum.
“There is coherence in the public school system because the DepEd shares the same vision despite presence of varied and innovative programs and projects in the different schools, divisions and regions,” she reasoned.

“These programs address priority education issues in their respective stations… all these programs and projects are leading to one vision—improvement of quality education for the Filipino children and societal transformation.”

Dino is also an advocate of education summits as they “give all the education stakeholders, the education personnel and employees, parents, local leaders and officials the opportunity to know and understand the education status in their community.”

She cited that because of the summits, “Bayanihan system becomes more meaningful.”

According to Dino, education summits “strengthen community awareness of being part of the education problems and part of the solutions.”

They mobilize people to take action. They affect how resources for instance the Barangay Fund and Local School Board Fund are managed.”

She added, “The summits give them the opportunity to reflect on what they have contributed to the education sector and what else can they do, as individuals or as a group/sector in addressing the education issues indicated in the basic information/education statistics presented during the summit.”

Building people

Dr. Dino believes that her vocation involves empowering teachers, students and other education stakeholders to lead to a better school system.

But when outside the classroom or school, she still imparts her nurturing spirit to others as she “builds people by talking about loving what we do.” She said she also likes to smile, talk, listen, read and learn more.

Her other interests include creating gifts and decorative items, and “being happy and kind in making a difference in the lives of our clientele.”

“I love my job very much. In fact, it is not work. It has been part of my life,” she declared.

“My job gives me many opportunities to touch other peoples’ lives. And I do pray that I have inspired them to love their job and happily make a difference.”

Meanwhile, she said there is nothing she dislikes about her job. “I have not hated anyone or anything. I believe anger and hatred should not have a place in anyone’s heart.”

Dino is a Fellow of the second cohort of the Bridging Leadership Fellows Program of the Asian Institute of Management Team Energy Center.

“Knowing what I would learn from the prestigious school, I was overwhelmed,” she said upon knowing that she was selected to be a Fellow. “What also made me happy is the fact that the program would give me the opportunity to know my development areas and would assist me developed these weaknesses to become a more effective leader.”

She said that she learned the Bridging Leadership or transformational framework from the program which she used to become a transformational leader. She used the framework to train other teachers as well. In addition, she learned how to listen and engage others in dialogues.

“I learned that simply delegating tasks, asking subordinates to make decisions, and creating programs are not enough if one aspires for responsive and sustainable solutions,” she related.

“I learned that I have to influence people, other stakeholders, to also own my dreams and that people should not present programs and projects for acceptance, but to convene people to be fully engaged in creating innovative solutions,” noted Dino.

as of 06/08/2009 11:31 AM

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Looking for Reynaldo Detera

Hello, fellow bicolanos. I am Imo from Guinobatan and I would like to get in
touch with Reynaldo Detera. I believe that he used to live near Sta. Mesa
train station back in the 70s. My email is bolanosfam@msn.com. Thank you.
Dino

A Brief History of Bacon

Justo Duran Dellosa
Municipal President 1926-1928; 1929-1931
Municipal Mayor 1941-1942
Assassinated: August 24, 1942


PART TWO
CHAPTER THREE
During the Civil Government Under the American Rule

The Titles of Municipal Officials, their Elections and Terms of Office:
Under the American Regime until the establishment of the Commonwealth Government, the local head officials retained the titles: President and Vice-President respectively.

The President and Vice-President together with the municipal councilors (in place of the Cabezas de Barangay of old) were elected by the registered voters of the locality. Their tenure of office was two years until 1909 when those elected in this year’s election served for three years. In 1912, however, a law was passed by the lawmaking body then, making the term four years. In 1916, when the Jones Law was passed, the term became three years again.

Besides the elected officials, there were other municipal officials who were appointed according to their qualifications, merits, experience and eligibility. They were the: Municipal Secretary, the Municipal Treasurer, Justice of the Peace, Chief of Police, the Sanitary Inspector and the employees under each. The Ecclesiastical Authorities appointed a Parish Priest to head the Parish of Mater Anunciata. Although the Parish Priest no longer held the same power as he used to hold under the Spanish rule, due to separation of the Church and the State, nevertheless, the people still look up to him for spiritual leadership, up to the present.

The Civil Government under the American Rule in Bacon, was established on July 1, 1901. The first local election was held. Men of age were gathered at the Municipal Building, registered as voters, instructed on how to vote; and right then voted. They were to select from the candidates to the elective posts like we do at present. The following were first elected officials as a result of the first election: (Available records show only the following)

Presidente Municipal----------Victor Eco
Vice Presidente-----------------Juan Azas
Concejales:
1. Elias Dia-------------for the Poblacion Central
2. Doroteo Nepomoceno-for San Roque
3. Antonio Diaz -------for San Juan
4. Dimas Empleo------for San Isidro
5. Gervacio Din -------for Bogna and Contod
6. Marcelo Ayo ------- for Salvacion and Sugod
7. Mariano Serrano----for Gatbo and Sawagnan*
8. Domingo Ayo-------for Montufar
9. Mariano Garcia----- for Rapu-Rapu
10. Pedro Doma---------for Batan

Appointed Officials and Leaders:
a. Municipal Secretary----Miguel B. Ramirez
b. Municipal Treasurer----Miguel Serrano
c. Cura Parroco-------------Rev. Fr. Clemente Emerencia


1902

Presidente Municipal----------Victor Eco
Vice Presidente-----------------Juan Azas
Juez de Paz ---------------------Ramon Garcia

The same officials served up to 1903. When the Municipal President, Victor Eco, resigned, the Vice President, Juan Azas, assumed the Presidency.

1904-1907

Presidente Municipal --------- Cirilo Jimenez
Vice Presidente-----------------Pedro Dona
Juez de Paz----------------------Ramon Garcia
Cura Parroco--------------------Rev. Fr. Ramon Santiago

1908-1909
Presidente Municipal----------Jose Garcia
Vice Presidente-----------------Dimas Empleo
Juez de Paz----------------------Roman Barbudo
Cura Parroco--------------------Rev. Fr. Balbino Hernandez

1910—1912
Presidente Municipal---------- Miguel B. Ramirez
Vice Presidente----------------- Gregorio Elona
Secretario Municipal-----------Julian Lacre until July 14, 1910 then
Jose Morato who served only few months; then
Francisco Morcador succeeded him.
Juez de Paz------------------- Ramon Barbudo until 1911.
Enrique Tabuena succeeded him in 1912.
Cura Parroco------------------ Rev. Fr. Balbino Hernandez

1913-1916
Presidente Municipal-----------Casimiro Eco
Vice Presidente------------------ Cipriano Dichoso
Secretario Municipal------------Rafael Dena up to 1914.
Porfirio Jimenez finished the term.
Tesorero Municipal------------ Francisco Mercader up to 1914.
Esteban Antas served until 1916.
Juez de Paz--------------------- Enrique Tabuena
Cura Parroco------------------Rev. Fr. Antonio Bayona

1917-1919
Presidente Municipal------------ Pablo Deocareza
Vice Presidente------------------- Balbino Ballesteros
Secretario Municipal-------------Julian Lacre
Tesorero Municipal---------------Francisco Mercader
Juez de Paz-------------------------Roman Baarbudo
Cura Parroco------------------ Rev. Fathers Antonio Bayona,
Martin Alcazar and
Balbino Viteron alternately served the parish.

1920-1922
Municipal President-------------- Amado Jimenez
Vice- President-------------------Gregorio Dioquino
Municipal Secretary---------------Julian Lacre
Municipal Treasurer---------------Zenon Diesta (temporarily serving)
Justice of the Peace--------------- Felix Bongon
Parish Priest-----------------------Rev. Fr. Jose Fuentebella

1923-1925
Municipal President--------------- Gregorio Dioquino
Vice- President----------------------Eutiquiano Duka
Municipal Secretary----------------Julian Lacre
Municipal Treasurer----------------Zenon Diesta (permanently serving)
Justice of the Peace-----------------Felix Bongon (1923-1924)
Roman Barbudo (1924—1925)
Parish Priest-------------------------Rev. Fr. Jose Fuentebella


1926-1928
Municipal President---------------- Justo Dellosa
Vice-President-----------------------Ramon Azas
Municipal Secretary---------------- Julian Lacre
Municipal Treasurer-----------------Zenon Diesta
Justice of the Peace -----------------Concepcion U. Lim
Parish Priest-------------------------- Rev. Fr. Jose Fuentebella


1929-1931
Municipal President----------------Justo Dellosa
Vice- President----------------------Zacarias Diesta
Municipal Secretary----------------Julian Lacre
Municipal Treasurer----------------Zenon Diesta
Justice of the Peace-----------------Concepcion U. Lim
Parish Priest------------------------- Rev. Fr. Jose Fuentebella

1932- 1934
Municipal President----------------Ramon Azas
Vice- President--------------------- Cornelio Diolata
Municipal Secretary----------------Gregorio Logronio
Municipal Treasurer---------------- Zenon Diesta
Justice of the Peace-----------------Concepcion U. Lim
Parish Priest--------------------------Rev. Fr. Francisco Bigornia


PART TWO
CHAPTER FOUR
The Period of the Commonwealth Government

The Change of Titles of the Town’s Head Officials and Their Terms of Office:
During the Period of the Commonwealth Government, the titles; Municipal President and Vice President were changed to into “Municipal Mayor” and “Vice Mayor” respectively. The term of office of the elected officials remained three years.

1935-1937
Municipal Mayor-------------------Rafael Domo
Vice- Mayor-------------------------Leon Ayo
Municipal Secretary----------------Julian Lacre
Municipal Treasurer----------------Zenon Diesta
Justice of the Peace-----------------Concepcion U. Lim
Parish Priest------------------------- Rev. Fr. Jose Fuentebella

1938-1940
Municipal Mayor------------------- Leon Ayo
Vice Mayor------------------------ Felix Dreu
Municipal Secretary---------------- Gregorio Logronio
Municipal Tresurer------------------Zenon Diesta until 1939; succeeded by
Gavino Estur- 1939-1940
Justice of the Peace-----------------Concepcion U. Lim
Parish Priest-------------------------Rev. Fr. Jose Fuentebella; his last year
of service- 1940


1941
Municipal Mayor---------------------Justo Dellosa
Vice Mayor--------------------------- Gregorio Latosa
Municipal Secretary------------------Teodoro Eco
Municipal Treasurer------------------Domingo Pancho
Justice of the Peace-------------------Concepcion U. Lim

The officials elected this year were supposed to serve a three year term; but the Pacific War broke out which shook the political make up of the whole country.

PART TWO
CHAPTER FIVE
During the Japanese Occupation Period

The following municipal officials during this period were appointed; the first two mayors, by the Japanese Imperial Army of Occupation; The other one was appointed by Salvador Escudero , incumbent Provincial Governor , elected 1940, head of the Resistance Movement.


1942
Municipal Mayor---------------------Justo Dellosa,
incumbent municipal Mayor when the Pacific War broke out.
He was appointed by the Imperial Army of Occupation.

Municipal Secretary------------------Teodoro Eco
until August of this year, when Mayor Dellosa died.

Municipal Treasurer------------------Antonio Jalasco, acting Treasurer

1942-1944
Municipal Mayor---------------------Jose Amador, appointed by the
Japanese Army of Occupation, to fill the office vacated by
Mayor Dellosa who died on Aug. 24, 1942.

Municipal Secretary------------------ Eulalia Eco, acting secretary for some time.

Municipal Treasurer------------------ Antonio Jalasco continued in office.

When Jose Amador died in October, 1944, nobody else was appointed to fill the vacancy.

1943-1945
Leon Ayo was appointed Mayor by the Resistance Movement (Free Government) headed by Salvador Escudero.

By: Cristina D. Jose -author

To be continued

April 6 - Election of officers Batch 1990

Batch 1990 Election of officers will be on April 6, 2009 for the upcoming BCSAAI reunion.

By: Margie Dioquino Serino

Spring at last

Bluebonnets of Texas

A Time for Everything
1 There is a time for everything,

and a season for every activity under the heavens:

2 a time to be born and a time to die,

a time to plant and a time to uproot,

3 a time to kill and a time to heal,

a time to tear down and a time to build,

4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,

a time to mourn and a time to dance,

5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,

a time to embrace and a time to refrain,

6 a time to search and a time to give up,

a time to keep and a time to throw away,

7 a time to tear and a time to mend,

a time to be silent and a time to speak,

8 a time to love and a time to hate,

a time for war and a time for peace.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Flash!

DAGDAG NA BALITA MULA SA BACON

Noong nakaraang Marso 6, sa Barangay Buenavista, isang lalaki (Dellosa guy) ang walang habas na ginulpi hanggang sa hindi na makagulapay matapos siyang tutukan ng baril (.45 cal) sa ulo ng tatlong kalalakihan na sakay ng dalawang motorsiklo (Honda Wave).

Bago nangyari ito, habang si G. Dellosa ay nag-aabang ng masasakyan pabalik sa kanyang tahanan sa Sugod, dalawang motorsiklo ang pumarada sa kanyang harapan. Habang nag-uusap ang tatlong mga pasahero ng motorsiklo, napalingon si G.Dellosa sa kanila. Dahil sa paglingong ito, ikinasama ng tatlo at siya ay sinita. Duon na nag-umpisa ang pambubugbog at pagtutok ng baril kay G.Dellosa. Naigupo lamang siya ng paluin sa dibdib at batok ng ibinalot sa panyo na granada! Dali-daling nagsilisan ang tatlo sakay ng dalawang motorsiklo patungo sa kabayanan ng Bacon.

Bago ang insidenteng ito, isang nagbebenta ng baka ang sapilitang kinuha ang kanyang baka ng ilang kalalakihan dito rin sa barangay na ito.

Madalas din ang insidente ng pang-aagaw ng cellphone sa mga taong gumagamit sa tabi ng kalsada ng mga nakasakay sa motorsiklo.

Ito ay ilan lang sa mga pangyayari na dapat malaman ng mga kinauukulan at ng sambayanan, lalong lalo na ng mga namumuno sa bayang ito.

Lumalala na ang mga ganitong insidente dito sa ating bayan na dapat nang pag-ukulan ng pansin.

Ito kaya ay dahil sa nangyayari ngayong KAHIRAPAN sa ating bayan? O kaya dahil sa KALUWAGAN at KARUWAGAN ng pamunuan Sorsogon City. Hindi ba ito nababalitaan ng ng ating "masipag" na Gng. Figueroa upang mainguso niya sa ating alkalde?

ANG SAMBAYANAN AY NAGTATANONG LAMANG.



Posted by Sosyal Na S'yano to Bacon, Sorsogon Philippines at 7:38 PM, March 09, 2009

The Atheist

An atheist was walking through the woods.

"What majestic trees!"

"What powerful rivers!"

"What beautiful animals!" He said to himself.

As he was walking alongside the river, he heard a rustling in the bushes behind him. He turned to look. He saw a 9-foot grizzly charge towards him. He ran as fast as he could up the path. He looked over his shoulder and saw that the bear was closing in on him.He looked over his shoulder again, and the bear was even closer. He

tripped and fell on the ground. He rolled over to pick himself up but saw that the bear was right on top of him, reaching for him with his left paw and raising his right paw to strike him. At that instant the Atheist cried out, "Oh my God!"

Time stopped.

The bear froze.

The forest was silent.As a bright light shone upon the man, a voice came out of the sky. "You

deny my existence for all these years, teach others I don't exist and

even credit creation to cosmic accident." "Do you expect me to help you out of this predicament? Am I to count you as a believer?"

The atheist looked directly into the light, "It would be hypocritical of me to suddenly ask You to treat me as a Christian now, but perhaps You could make the BEAR a Christian?"

"Very Well," said the voice.

The light went out. The sounds of the forest resumed. And the beardropped his right paw, brought both paws together, bowed his head and spoke: "Lord bless this food, which I am about to receive from thy bountythrough Christ our Lord, Amen."

Anonymous

Report from Bacon ( Series No.3 )

For the past several weeks in January Bacon had experienced extraordinary downpour of rains which was forcasted to extend to February.
The strangeness with the weather is the unusual cold spell that goes with the rains. People are blaming global warming. Physical health is also affected specially the elderly and the poor.

It appears that the global economic crisis with the rising costs of living had a very adverse effect in Bacon. There is an apparent increase in poverty among the Bacongnons. This was so obvious during the Christmas season when poor people with their kids came to the house begging for anything I could give them. I had to share with those destitute families the budget intended for The Indigent kids Project. I had successfully destributed on Christmas the cash money of P25,573, food stuff, used clothes, school supplies, candies, soap, etc. which all came from kind and generous donors in the U.S. I already sent the report accompanied with receipts signed by the children and their parents, to U.S. Coordinator Rene J. Dellosa.

Poverty is real and increasing and getting worse and the Indigent Kids Project which is now on its 7th year needs to be expanded.
I am hoping that readers of this report will be moved to help or donate anything in the present fund raising intended for the school opening this coming June.

OTHER INFORMATION:

The hospital in Bacon has been very accessible to Bacongnons specially those coming from the farthest barrio. They no longer have to go to Sorsogon City to get medical attention.

St. Therese of the Infant Jesus Hospital
(2 stories building)
First Floor: Botica, Offices, Doctor's Room
Second Fllor: Chapel, Patients'rooms


OIC/Administrator - Sor Alma Mangahas
Medical Director - Dr. Alma Chacon

1 Emergency Room1 Operating Room
34 small rooms for paywards
24 beds for charity or free wards

The hospital encourages people to donate for the expansion of services to the charity patients. You may donate directly to the hospital.


BACON EAST CENTRAL SCHOOL

Public School District Supervisor : Mrs. Aster Barcena
School District Principal : Mrs. Evelyn D. Doctama

33 teachers and 34 rooms in the Bacon Central School

Note: The water system project by the Alumni Homecoming has already been connected to all the classrooms. Many of you perhaps had contributed to this very worthy project.

Pressing Problem: According to the principal Ms. Doctama, the most pressing problem they have is feeding about 274 most malnourshed pupils out of 1,230 school population including kindergarten.

Kind and generous people who may wish to donate may send their donation direct to the school principal or to Amado Manduriao, Jr.

Schools under BACON EAST CENTRAL SCHOOL

Bonga Elem School, Sta. Lucia Elem. School, Salvacion Elem School, Sugod Elem.School
Jamislagan Elem. School, Bato Elem.School, Gatbo Elem.School, Buenavista Elem. School
Bonot Elem.School, Balogo Elem.School, Sawangga Elem. School, Canarum Elem.School, Sta.Teresita Elem.School.

By: Amado J. Manduriao, JR.

Vice-President

Association of Senior Citizens

Poblacion Bacon, Sorsogon (2006-2008)

Sonnet from the Portuguese

Kylie 2001-2008
M.I.'s cat

If you must love me, let it be for nought
Except for love’s sake only. Do not say
“I love her for her smile – her look- her way
Of speaking gently, - for a trick of thought
That falls in well with mine, and certes brought
A sense of pleasant ease on such a day”-

For these things in themselves, Beloved, may
Be changed, or change for thee,- and love, so wrought,
May be unwrought so. Neither love me for
Thine own dear pity’s wiping my cheeks dry,-
A creature might forget to wep, who bore
Thy comfort long, and lose thy love thereby!

But love me for love’s sake, that evermore
Thou mayst love on, through love’s eternity.

Elizabeth Barrrett Browning

Happy Valentines to all!

Missing Friends

Left to right: Cielito,Oti, Maning, Tony

Can anyone tell me the whereabouts of my friends?
Contact me through baconsorsogon@gmail.com

Anonymous