Sandataan 2010

Logo designed by Ramon Alcazar Dellosa


Again, the Bacon SANDATAAN Association (Metro Manila), Inc. will hold its yearly tradional celebration on December 30, 2010, 6:00 PM onward at Jade Valley Restaurant, Corner Scout Rallos and Scout Tordesillas Sts. along Timog Avenue Quezon City.

All Bacongnons and non-Bacongnons are invited to attend and enjoy the ballroom dancing, with live band assisting.

(In the words of Justo "Ve" J. Dellosa))this is again " a time to relax after a year's labor, meet old friends and long-lost relatives; renew acquaintances; dance to old refrains-relive old and fading memories." Remember the "PANTOMINA?"

Ticket is priced at Php300.00.
Attire-Semi-formal.

Sa mga taga Bacon: MAOGMANG PASKO SAINDO GABOS!

Halat mi kamo sa satuyang "MAISOG NA SANDATAAN"!

By BSAI Officer

Christmas Message

The season of Advent is a time for waiting. Waiting is not a very popular attitude. Most people consider it a waste of time. Perhaps this is because we are in a culture that is always in a hurry. Even in our life with God, we don’t find waiting very easy. How often do we find ourselves asking the question, ‘How long; how long before you answer my prayer; how long before you send healing to me; how long before peace comes into my life; how long before I get a job to support my loved ones; how long, O Lord…how long?

In the first four chapters of the gospel according to Luke, there are five outstanding people who wait in a special way: Zechariah and Elizabeth, Mary, Simeon and finally Anna. They were people of promise and hope, waiting for the redemption of God’s people. They were a people who were prepared to trust themselves into the awesome presence of God.

So this Christmas, we join them, our forbears, and wait upon the Lord, and say, O come, O come Emmanuel, and claim us as your own.

Now as we reflect on the very first Christmas, we must recall the simplicity and the mystery of the occasion. It was a time when our God and Saviour came to earth. It was the end of us being alone, and the beginning of God with us, Emmanuel. Jesus the Son of God left the tabernacle of Mary’s womb because his delight was to be with human beings created by God.

We experience this every day in our lives. For day after day, Jesus the Christ returns to take his place among us. Jesus leaves the holy tabernacle of heaven, to come to earth, and then he leaves the tabernacle of the altar, to come into our hearts. So every union with Jesus Christ is Christmas all over again.

I am always filled with awe at the thought that God, Creator of the world, actually became a tiny human baby, detaching himself from the rights of his divinity in order to do so. A baby of course arouses immediate sympathy and even delight as we watch the tiny infant, stretching out its little hands, to make contact and share its love. Such was Jesus too, stretching out his infant hands to make contact with us, to invite us into the closest possible intimacy with him throughout our lives, us protecting him, him protecting us. What confidence in him this thought should inspire! So today we pray: Dear Jesus, I give you my heart now, with all its thoughts and desires, and I ask You to make it entirely Yours for ever. Amen.

May God bless us with his everlasting words, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Rev. Bert Dellosa

B. Theo - Melbourne College of Divinity/United Faculty of Theology

M.A. (Theol) - Australian Catholic University

Minister

Uniting Church in Australia

Altona-Trinity Congregation

Dellosa Clan Reunion

Closer...closer...

Dellosa Clan Reunion

closer...


email baconsorsogon@gmail.com for details

Milenyo's Fury- Traveljournal.net

Aftermath of Typhoon Sisang in Bacon Nov. 1987

Milenyo's Fury

2006-07-13, Sorsogon, Philippines

Source: Bobby Labalan, Phil. Daily Inquirer

Introduction

Nineteen years ago, Sorsogon was devastated by a super typhoon named “Sisang”. It was a major disaster in the Province of Sorsogon. Damages in properties cost million of pesos, but the saddest part is hundreds of Sorsoganons lost their lives in this historical catastrophe.

It is said that Sisang is the strongest typhoon that hit the Province, specially its capital, Sorsogon, Sorsogon. According to PAGASA, Sisang is ravaging with a wind of 180 kilometers per hour and a gustiness of 200 kph. Very true, because thousands of houses plus business establishments were destroyed by the said natural calamity. Typhoon Sisang hit the Sorsogon soil at around 7:00 pm and it last until dawn of the next day.

Strong winds, strong rain and it was believed that a tidal wave joined Sisang in destroying Sorsogon. The next day, Sorsogon was in a very worst scenario, that even Vincent van Goh can’t paint it on canvass. Men, women and children perished on that horrible natural disaster. According to the Sorsoganons, Sisang beat all the typhoons that hit the Province.

Life goes on to the people of Sorsogon after Sisang. Nineteen years had passed away, and typhoons still visit Sorsogon yearly, but not as strong as typhoon Sisang. Sorsoganons are so thankful that they were always spared to destructions of typhoons that hit the country yearly.

Typhoon Milenyo

September 27, 2006 – Sorsogon was forecast (by PAGASA) to be hit by a Typhoon name “Milenyo”. Point of origin of this typhoon is somewhere in the Island of Borongan, Samar. Two days before the landfall, PAGASA released a whether bulletin about Milenyo’s track and strength. At first it started only at 60 kilometers per hour, but while it gets near to the province it became stronger and stronger.

Typhoon Milenyo hit Sorsogon soil, on September 26, 2006. On that day PAGASA forecasted that the typhoon is having a strong wind of 150 to 180 kilometers per hour near the center. At around 5:00 in the afternoon, the wind and the rain starts whipped the entire City of Sorsogon and the Province as well.

On my personal experience with typhoon Milenyo, were about to eat our dinner with my family at around 5:30 pm when we felt the strong winds that is bumping my doors and my G.I. roof. Rains are also trying to penetrate on my windows even it is closed. I tried to open up my transistor radio to hear the latest forecast, but to no avail because all the radio stations in the city are bar downed.

I looked outside (because it is not yet dark) and to my amazed how strong the typhoon is. Galvanized roofing’s from somewhere else are already flying like a magic carpet of Aladdin, branches of trees are detaching from its bark and even trees and Soreco post are falling down.

One thing that frightened me is when I saw that the water is starting to get in to my house. I looked once again outside and I found out that water from the roads are getting high because the drainage are all blocked by the dirt and leaves that fall downed. The water inside my house is below my knees. I expected the worst scenario that may happen so I decided immediately to transfer my family to my neighbor who has a two storey house (since my house is only the bungalow type.)

From the top of my lungs I called out my neighbor and asked permission if we can transfer to their house because the water inside my house is rising. Thank God they immediately say yes. The wind and the rain that time (around 5:30 pm) were so strong and trees are falling down and galvanized roofing’s are already flying.

I put a ladder on my concrete fence and one by one I escorted my children and my wife to transfer to the next house. When all my children are already inside my neighbor’s house, my wife and I goes back inside my house to secure all our belongings and put it on a high place for them not to be reach by water.

Milenyo’s fury gets stronger and stronger, the wind outside is whooping and it seems that a twister is accompanying the super typhoon. The wind last for almost four hours, it was around 9:30 pm when it reduces its strength, until finally it subsides at around 10:00 pm. I go out to go back to my house, thank God my roof are still intact, the water inside the house don’t get higher as I expected and my belongings are not wet by the rain water.

The Aftermath

As early as 4:00 in the morning I went out again to our evacuation house to see the total damage of the typhoon. To my amazed…I’ve seen that scenario already nineteen years ago after typhoon Sisang. Trees are downed and uprooted, roofs of the houses are gone (thank God my roofs are still intact) galvanized iron scattered along the roads and some are being drag already by the so called scavengers and electric post almost bowed down to the ground.

After saying thank you to my ( “good Samaritan”) my neighbor we go back to our house to clean up all the mess that the typhoon brought us. My floor is filled with water and mud, so after taking breakfast we started cleaning and drying up the wet portion of my house and put back into places all our belongings.

I decided to go out to the city proper to document all the damages….so with my digital camera I went out. At city proper, worst scenarios are all in rows. I just keep my camera shoot and let my pictures describe the destructions, Sorsogon City has.

Among the most affected barangays in Sorsogon City are the Sirangan, were almost of the houses are washed out to the sea, Barangay Talisay, Sampaloc and Bulabog, but the entire City is devastated….i just say to myself…this is Sisang part II. According to PAGASA typhoon milenyo sustained a wind of 230-240 kilometer per hour, much stronger than typhoon sisang who have only 160 to 180 kph.

I started asking my colleagues in the Media Community about any casualties that are related to the typhoon, Thank God, casualties are very minimal (not like of Sisang) there are only few reported casualties in the City of Sorsogon. Sorsoganon had learned a lesson with typhoon Sisang, were thousands died because they don’t evacuate to a safer place specially those who are living in coastal barangays. Now, the people of Sorsogon learned the Disaster Preparedness so the moment PAGASA announces that there’s a storm coming, immediately they evacuated in a safer place….this is the reason why typhoon milenyo failed to claim more lives among the Sorsoganons.

Damages

Damages to the entire province was initially placed at P2.23 billion, of which P1.27 billion was accounted for by damaged houses. Agriculture suffered damage worth P234.21 million; school facilities, P51 million and infrastructure, P208 million.

The City remains without electric power. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo visited the City three days after the typhoon. President Arroyo instructed the governors, who are heads of their respective coordinating councils, to immediately prepare a post-calamity rehabilitation plan to include those who lost their livelihood.

The plan will be made the basis for the release of government assistance to affected families. (Source: Bobby Labalan, Phil.Daily Inquirer)

Conclusion

Every Sorsoganon had their own story to tell about their experienced with typhoon milenyo, but something we learned from this disaster, and that is “God still love and protect Sorsogon”. I’m so thankful that no losses of life like of that Sisang. Damage properties can be replaced, but not the life of every human being.

As of now, Sorsogon City (in particular) is jolted by a nightmare, but the Sorsoganons will pick up the pieces and will rise up once again and fulfill the vision of Mayor Sally A. Lee that Sorsoson will be a “Dream City”. “ Kaya mga kahimanwa ko…..LONG….ABANTE GUIHAPON KITA!

Photos of typhoon Sisang were taken by Annie's friend

Assessment of The Pili Industry In The Bicol Region

Assessment of The Pili Industry In The Bicol Region
Estela B. Orolfo Ph. D. -Retired CC-III DA-AES( Paper presented in the Crop Congress during the Agri-Fiesta Sa Bikol 2000 at the UNC Sports Palace, Naga City on Sept. 5, 2000.)


Introduction


Pili (Canarium ovatum Engl.) is one of the twenty major fruit crops of the Philippines which deserve to be developed. It is the crop which the country produce with greatest advantage and competitiveness on a global scale. Historical accounts on this crop attests that the Philippines is the only country which produce and process pili in commercial quantity (De Padua et al, 1978) such that we have the monopoly of the foreign market (Coronel, 1990). However recently Hawaii intends to produce pili to cater to mainland USA (Zee, 1993).The export potential of pilinuts and pilinut processed products is high. Pilinut is considered superior to almond (West, 1993). Processed delicacies of the kernel are very delicious and easily appeal to consumers, even among foreigners. In fact according to Lanuza (1970) the Philippines had been exporting pilinut to several countries since pre-war years . In 1997 the country exported 3,970 kilos of processed pilinuts to Australia and Guam (Coronel, 1990). The resin (elemi) which is extracted from the bark is a known export product of the country for many years . It has both pharmaceutical and industrial uses. It is an ingredient in the manufacture of plasters, ointments, paints, varnish, sealants, lacquers, asphalt, water and fire proofing, linoleum, plastics and printing inks. Record indicated that for many years the Philippines has been exporting resin (manila elemi) (Manalo G. A., et al, 1940). Oil from both kernel and pulp is considered equal if not better to olive oil in quality and is suitable for culinary uses. Pili is indigenous to the Philippines (Merill, 1923). It is produced in at least 6 regions namely: Bicol, Eastern Visayas, Southern Tagalog, Caraga, Western Visayas and Southern Mindanao (Fig. 1). In all these areas pili are found sporadically growing in forestal and semi-forestal conditions. It is compatible with a large variety of plants in a wide range of agro-ecological conditions. The tree is very sturdy and lives long. In the latest search for the oldest productive female tree sponsored by DA-Reg. V, the winner was claimed to have passed 4 generations (about 200 years) in inspite of the frequent typhoons that pass Bicol every year. This tree is still very prolific with an average yield of 12 sacks (20,000 - 24,000) fresh fruits per season (annually).As a commercial commodity pili has other favorable attributes not possessed by other Philippine fruits. Pilinut is not perishable. The fruit can be marketed fresh, as shelled nuts, dried kernel or processed into various delicacies. It does not require costly storage treatment. If properly dried it can be stored for 1 year under ordinary room condition thus giving enough time to speculate for better prices.Aside from its commercial importance pili fits well as a material for the agro-eco-tourism program of the government. The spreading crown provides shelter to wildlife and serve as wind breakers during typhoons. It is a good material for rehabilitating watershed areas and prevent soil erosion because of its deep penetrating root system, sturdy stems and vigorous crown.

In Bicol pili plays a significant role in the economy It provides additional income to some 13,435 farmers who own at least 10 trees and farm laborers hired as harvesters (Benchmark survey, 1998). The processing industry generate employment to scores of people such as the traders, processors, assemblers, factory workers, store keepers and others offering miscellaneous services related to the industry. At present there are about 256 entrepreneurs involved in the pili industry (Mirandilla, J.A., 1995). However, only 31 are registered (DTI, July, 2000).

Aware of the great potential of pili as a commercial crop it was selected as the flagship crop of Bicol. Thus, at present there is concerted efforts by various agencies and some NGO's to hasten the development of the industry in the region. Therefore the elevation of pili as the 8th subnetwork under the Philippine fruit RDE Agenda is welcomed with much hope for this crop to become an export winner in the near future.


Industry Situation


Production Area


Pili used to be one of the 7 major fruits of the country. However production area is generally sporadic and semi-forestal. Existing trees are natural borne such that local producers take this crop for granted. Pili trees were cut indiscriminately to give way to other crops like coconuts and various annual crops.

In 1996 the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics estimated the area at 1,218 hectares throughout the country with Bicol having the biggest area of 968 ha. (79.47%). Eastern Visayas is a poor second with 139 has. (11.41%), Southern Tagalog 72 has. (5.9%), Western Visayas 26 has. (2.13%) Caraga and Southern Mindanao 13 ha. (1.07%).In Bicol Sorsogon has the biggest area devoted to pili with 669 hectares followed by Albay 145 hectares, Camarines Sur 100 hectares, Camarines Norte 50 hectares and Catanduanes 4 hectares.


Existing Pili Trees


The latest survey jointly conducted by DA and LGU in 1998 accounted some 410,161 pili trees throughout the Bicol region. Of this population 97,920 (23.87%) are productive. The 312, 241 (76.13%) are either male or are still in the vegetative stage. At present this population must have doubled due to the implementation of the pili development project where no less than 608,879 seedlings were distributed for the establishment of pili orchards, rehabilitation of watershed areas and for reforestation (Laysa et. Al, 1998).


Pilinut Production


Bicol is the major producer of pili with a share of 57% of the domestic production. (Fig. 4). In 1998, the regional production was estimated at approximately 9,007 MT. Of the 6 provinces Albay has the highest output with 3,549 MT (40%), followed by Sorsogon with 3,001 MT (33%) and Camarines Sur with 1,207 MT (13%).

Although Bicol remain as leader in pili production we must not stagnate. Note that our production continue to decline (Fig. 6).


Farmer Producer


There are approximately 13, 435 farmers producing pili. Most of these farmers own 5-10 trees with a few others having more than 10 trees. In general the productive trees at present are volunteer growth in the area and grew from seeds. Their dispersal were the work of wild animals which feed on the pili fruits. To our knowledge there are only two pili orchards purposely established by the owner some 2-3 decades ago. One is in Bulusan, Sorsogon where pili is intercropped with coconuts and the other is in Sipocot, Camarines Sur. It is an open area planted to a mixed population of pili cultivars some grown from seedlings and some were grafted.


Germplasm Collected, Nurseries and Scion Groves Established


The regional repository for pili is at Albay Experiment Station, one of the Research Outreach Stations of DA-RFU V. At present there are 819 pili selections planted in the germplasm area, 296 are female where 248 are already productive, 337 are male and 186 are newly planted from last years collections. From the old selections 5 outstanding cultivars have been selected 3 of which are now certified by NSIC as new pili varieties bearing the names Magnaye, Laysa and M. Orolfo (Orolfo E.B. and B.R. Orbase, 1997). The other 2 outstanding selections (Daet No. 1 and Malipo) are under final evaluation and review by NSIC.

Germplasm collection is being sustained in collaboration with the selected LGU's, SUC's and farmer group in order to fast tract the acquisition and domestication of elite cultivars. Selection criteria was formulated in consultation with local processors.

The implementation of the DA-High Value Commercial Crop Development Program and the Pili Development Project in the Bicol Region participated in by DENR, BUCAF and with DA as lead agency facilitated the establishment of 12 nursery sites and 6 scion groves. At present 2 of these scion groves are already source of limited number of scions.


Plant Material Production and Distribution


At the end of the interagency project (PDPB) in 1998 a total of 1,199,074 (1,169,187 seedlings and 29,887 asexually propagated plants) were produced from which 608,879 pieces were distributed to requesting clientele. Henceforth DA-RFU -V single handedly sustained the production of plant materials. If at least 75% of the planting materials distributed are established in the field, an additional area of about 4,566 hectares shall have been planted to pili by now.


Techno-Demo Farms Established


Except for DOST all the implementing agencies of the Pili Development Project in the Bicol Region established techno-demonstration farms showcasing their respective technology highlights. For instance DA focused on the introduction of different cultivars using seedlings and asexually propagated plants through cleft grafting, BUCAF used seedlings and asexual plants through inarching and DENR demonstrated the integration of pili in reforestation using seedlings. By the end of the project 131 techno-demo sites were established throughout the region. DA established 116, DENR 12 and BUCAF 3. Furthermore techno-demo farms established by DA is research based and focused on pili based cropping system.


Pili Trading


Pilinut is marketed in 4 different kind such as: fresh fruits, nuts, fresh and dried kernel and processed. The study of Mirandilla (1995) accounted a total of 256 pili traders. Of this 156 (60.93%) are from Sorsogon, 73 (28.51%) are from Albay and 27 (10.5%) are from Camarines Sur. Some of these traders are also processors. On the average a trader purchase / sell 1.5 MT of pili per year thus, approximately 384 MT of pili is traded in Bicol. With the running price average of P 200 per kilo, the total volume of pili traded would amount to P 76,800,000.


Issues and Problems


Although the pili processing industry has sustained through the years it remained as a cottage industry and family oriented. In the recent benchmark survey conducted by BCARRD (1998) and DA (1999) the following constraints were identified (1) unavailability of superior quality planting materials (2) limited institutional support on production development, (3) lack of pilinut supply, (4) Poor marketing systems, (5) unavailability of cost saving post harvest and processing facilities, (6) high cost of transportation, (7) drastic fluctuation in prices and (8) lack / absence of appropriate credit support to farmer producers.


Desired Industry Situation


Industry Goal


Considering that pili is one commodity which the Philippines can export with competitive advantage. The pili industry must be fully commercialized in areas where there is substantial production (Bicol, Eastern Visayas, and Southern Tagalog). Strengthen research on post harvest handling, processing and packaging to come up to international standards. Enhance close networking with various stakeholders to strengthen resource base. Develop efficient marketing system and lobby for legislative support, if necessary, for the industry to receive adequate fund support and protect it from exploitation.


Opportunities


The United States alone imports millions of kilos shelled walnuts and 9 million kilos of shelled almonds. With pili being acclaimed superior if not better to these nuts and if the region can produce products of high quality then pili is sure to replace a significant amount of the US importation of these nut. Pili is also a potential substitute for macadamia, walnut and cashew. At present there is a great demand for nuts whatever kind in Korea, Hongkong, Singapore and Australia (market Profile for HVCC).


Present Initiatives


1. DA Region V - Research (TG, TA, TV)- Extension - 1,000,000 seedlings- 66,00 asexually propagated

2. LGU Albay - Commercial Pili Production with the target of 3,000 hectares. - Provincial Ordinance 99-015 - Six Years Tax Moratorium for Real Property landowners planting pili in commercial scale.- Fund allocation for pili development - 20% of economic development fund.

3. LGU Sorsogon - Executive Order No. 8 series 1999. Creating Sorsogon Provincial Pili Industry Council.- Rehabilitation of 680 hectares covering 34 barangays province wide.- Budgetary allocation - P 530,450 for plant material supply at P 15,600 per barangay.

4. ATI - Strengthen training program on Pili Production, Processing and Utilization for LGUs and NGOs.

5. BCARRD - participation of member agencies in the Phase II PIRDP

6. DA-BAR - Inclusion of pili as number 8 sub network under the Philippine RDE Agenda for the modernization of the fruit industry.

7. DOST - Establishment of quality standards for processed products.

8. ITDI - R & D for Packaging Technologies and Post Harvest and Processing equipments.

9. BPRE - BU - R & D on Post Harvest Handling, Processing and Utilization.
_______________________________References_____ BAS Production Statistics for KCCDP Priority Crops 1996.
_____ BCARRD 1998. Benchmark Survey of the Pili Industry in the Bicol Region 100 pp.
Coronel, R.E. 1990. Promising Fruit of the Philippines.
Coronel, R.E. and J.C. Zuño 1979. The correlation between some fruit characters of pili. Phil. Agri. 63: 163-165.
Lanuza, E. A. 1970. Pili Culture. Plant Industry Digest 32: 33 (1) 7-11.
Laysa, F.D. et al. 1999. Pili Development Project In The Bicol Region. 106 pp.
Manalo, G. and A.P. West. 1940. Analysis and Composition of Manila elemi. Phil. J. Crp. Sci. 78 (1): 111-120.
Merill, E.D. 1923 An enumeration of Philippine Flowering Plants. Bu. of Printing Manila.
Mirandilla, J.A. 1995. The Pilinut Industry in The Bicol Region. Ph.D. Thesis Aquinas University Legaspi City. 186 pp.
Orolfo E. and B.R. Orbase 1997. New Pili Varieties in the Bicol Region. 10 pp.
West, E. P. 1923. The Composition of the Pilinut oil. Phil. Jr. Sci. 23 (3): 269-276.
Zee, F.T. 1993. Rambutan and Pilinuts. Potential crops for Hawaii. P. 461-465. In. Janick and J.E. Simon (eds.) New Crops. Willy, New York.



WHY PILI?

1. Indigenous in the Philippines.

2. Produce in commercial scale only in this country -globally competitive -monopoly of the foreign market

3. Export potential. - Pilinut is superior to almond and other nuts. - Processed delicacies appeal to consumers, even foreigners. - Resin is a known export of the country for many years with medicinal and industrial uses.

4. Pili is non-perishable. - 1 year storability under normal condition.

5. Plays a significant role in the economy of Bicol. - 13,435 farmers benefited - 256 traders-processors involved. - Significant number indirectly involved in the industry.

6. Environment friendly - Prevents erosion. - Act as wind breakers. - Provide shelter for wildlife - Aesthetic value

7. It is the flagship crop of Bicol.

small corruption in the Philippines

Expat in the Philippines
small corruption in the Philippines
August 1, 2010By Jan


Corruption in the Philippines is a large problem and integrated in the society for years. Everybody seems to accept it. The ‘bigger’ corruption can be found in the government offices and the house of representatives, and even in the senate of the Philippines. Many ‘officials’ are corrupt and get money that is not actually theirs, but belongs to the people of the Philippines. There are many jokes about the so called “pork barrel” issues in the house of representatives. They all are able to get some for specific projects they initiate but put a lot of the money in their own pockets or the pockets of assistants, contractors and the like. Of course there are also ‘honest’ politicians in the Philippines, but because of the political system in this country, many are NOT. I will not discuss this here, I only like to report about corruption on a small scale.


A few days ago I was visiting the Immigration Office in Manila at Intramuros. When arriving, parking our car was no problem. There was enough space around 10.30 AM. A friendly man was even assisting in parking between two other cars (but on almost every parking lot in the Philippines you will find this kind of friendly people).Around noon we were finished and wanted to go elsewhere in Manila. The same helpfull man was assisting again in going out.
I took a 10 peso coin from my purse and gave it to him saying thank you.At that moment the man was saying that he wanted to have 30 pesos. I know that this is the correct amount to pay, but only if the (official) parking attendant is handing a ticket for parking. So I requested a ticket and was willing to pay 30 pesos for it. But the man said he could not issue a ticket to me. So I said that he only could get 10 pesos, or 30 with a ticket. The man tried to get 20 pesos in stead without ticket, but I refused it. I handed him the 10 pesos, said goodbye and drove off, probably leaving the man cursing: “those F***** kano’s ….. “. For those who do not know the term kano: it is short for Americano. All not Filipino people are seen as Americans and called kano.


This wasn’t the first time I experienced this at this place. The first time, a few months ago, I was issued a ticket by the official parking guard after another man also wanted to have 30, and not the 10 I was intending to give. Fact is that people try to get money from visitors at the immigration office without the issue of parking tickets. I call this corruption.They steal from the government by doing so and I realize that this kind of corruption doesn’t have much priority in the government, it IS corruption.


Philippino people like changes in their country. They have a new president now, who is not corrupt and even fighting the corruption. People only do not realize that changing the country starts with themselves. They have to start being straight themselves and look for proper jobs. It is only that this way of ‘earning’ money is easier, and if they are lucky maybe they ‘earn’ more each day.


Corruption can be found in all layers of the community. This is just a small example of it. I will report of more cases soon.

A Brief History of Bacon Part III

PART THREE
BACON DURING THE DIFFERENT PERIOD OF ITS HISTORY


CHAPTER ONE

The Economic, Social, Political, Religious and Education Life of the Bacongnons During the Spanish Regime


Economically, the town of Bacon progressed under the Spanish rule, especially with the development of abaca and coal mining * industries. The people were ignorant of almost any form of luxury extravagance. Their only extravagance was for the church & religious celebrations, and in the reception of visitors, especially during the town fiesta. Kept in illiteracy and ignorance, the people lived with few necessities in life. They knew almost no other forms of gambling existed, they were kept in deep secrecy for fear of severe punishments.


The people could not remain idle. Anybody caught doing nothing productive was severely punished. The cuadrilleros saw that. Land was plentiful. One could have any piece of land that was not yet claimed by another; cultivate it and claim it for his own. Thus, more land was made productive which enhance immensely the economic progress of the town. However, the people were not made to understand the true meaning of the “dignity of labor”. Most of the natives worked because they had to obey the order or get punished if they disregarded it. Even the invalids had to do their share to help improve the economic status of this municipality.


The industry, courtesy, spirit of cooperation, apparent fervor in religion, simplicity in dress, and behavior, even being civic conscious and law-abiding of the people were forced from them by fear, rather than being really conscious of the value of these virtues.


Town officials were obliged to wear coats. The others who held no public office were strictly prohibited from wearing the same, or being luxurious in anyway. Some old natives recall how awkwardly funny these officials looked in their foreign attire. Perhaps, even without the strict prohibition, the civilians would not to wear them.



In preparation for church festivities and religious celebrations, men of working age were required to help in the construction of whatever is needed; such as the kinorobong for the Via Crucis when held outside the church during the first five Sundays of Lent; the Castillo on every corner of the patio during the Palm Sunday where the children (dressed as angels) sin, Hossana, Filio David; the Castillo on Resurrection Day (Easter Sunday) and the trellises where all sorts of farm products (supposed to be the best prodice) are hung on Corpus Cristi Day. These farm products are given as an offering, a sign of gratitude to God who gave us the land, and who makes our plants grow. These religious observances are still practiced up to the present time; but the men need not be required anymore to work. Members of religious organizations especially the Centro Catolico undertake the preparations voluntarily.


At dawn, families were required to pray the Holy Rosary. Cuadrilleros (now policemen) roamed around. They would stop beside homes to listen. When, in a certain home, the family did not pray, the father and/or the mother would be taken to the Casa Tribunal (Municipal Building) for punishment. In like manner, they were required to keep their surroundings clean. They would be punished if they did not comply.


There was a curfew hour. At 10:00 PM everybody had to be home. Anybody caught roaming around the town after 10 o’ clock was severely punished unless he could give a very reasonable reason for his being outside his being outside his home; but often times a person was not given a chance to explain.


There were all sorts of orders, some of which were born out of the whims and caprices of the governing officials-Spaniards and Filipinos alike. And the people had to obey. Severe punishments awaited the law-breakers and wrong-doers; a severer one to criminals.


If someone was found guilty of any offense, he was arrested and punished publicly. There were different kinds of punishments given, such as: beating a person with a rod, twenty –five times (termed cabanan). When the offense was grave, the offender was beaten until blood oozed out. A drunkard would make to drink wine where in was mixed the manure of a pig. He could not refuse or else a more severe punishment would be meted out to him.


When there were offenders to be punished, the public would be summoned to the Casa Tribunal by means of pustuhan like those hung in the baluartes. The Municipal Building (Casa Tribunal) was also supplied with this hollow trunk of a tree which, when pounded, emitted a loud, booming sound. When the people heard this; they gathered at the Casa Tribunal. Sometimes the people would be summoned not to witness punishment, but to hear the announcements.


In the Poblacion, there were only two teachers: a male teacher for the boys, and a female one for the girls. The number of pupils coming under each had no limit. Sometimes there would be two hundred children in a class under one teacher. The problem of supervising them in their studies was solved by means of cabecillas. A cabecilla was more advanced in her studies than the rest of the pupils. Usually, a cabecilla would take charge of at most ten beginners. The teacher would not be bothered giving lessons to all except in Religion (under the Roman Catholic Church) which was the major concern in all schools during this period. Only the cabecillas got their instructions in all other subjects directly from the teacher. The pupils were taught the rudiments of reading, writing, arithmetic and Spanish as well as instruction in Work Education. The elder and more advanced pupils were given further training in oral conversation in Spanish as well as instruction in Work Education. The girls, for example learned to sew, embroider and to make artificial flowers.


In the school, the maxim, “Spare the rod, spoil the child,” prevailed. Sometimes, the punishments given to pupils were very impractical, some of which were rather inhuman.
“Sitting on the air,” for example for an hour, was beyond a child could bear.


Author: Cristina D. Jose

To be continued

Best Poem In The World

BEST POEM IN THE WORLD

I was shocked, confused, bewildered
As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,
Nor the lights or its decor.

But it was the folks in Heaven
Who made me sputter and gasp--
The thieves, the liars, the sinners,
The alcoholics and the trash.

There stood the kid from seventh grade
Who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
Who never said anything nice.

Herb, who I always thought
Was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
Looking incredibly well.

I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal?
I would love to hear Your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake.

'And why's everyone so quiet,
So somber - give me a clue.'
'Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock.
No one thought they'd be seeing you.'

JUDGE NOT.

Remember...Just going to church doesn't make you a Christian
any more than standing in your garage makes you a car .

Inaugural Speech of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III

Inaugural Speech of President Benigno S. Aquino III in English (philstar.com) Updated June 30, 2010 12:54 PM


His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.


My presence here today is proof that you are my true strength. I never expected that I will be here taking my oath of office before you, as your president. I never imagined that I would be tasked with continuing the mission of my parents. I never entertained the ambition to be the symbol of hope, and to inherit the problems of our nation.
I had a simple goal in life: to be true to my parents and our country as an honorable son, a caring brother, and a good citizen.


My father offered his life so our democracy could live. My mother devoted her life to nurturing that democracy. I will dedicate my life to making our democracy reach its fullest potential: that of ensuring equality for all. My family has sacrificed much and I am willing to do this again if necessary.


Although I was born to famous parents, I know and feel the problems of ordinary citizens. We all know what it is like to have a government that plays deaf and dumb. We know what it is like to be denied justice, to be ignored by those in whom we placed our trust and tasked to become our advocates.


Have you ever been ignored by the very government you helped put in power? I have. Have you had to endure being rudely shoved aside by the siren-blaring escorts of those who love to display their position and power over you? I have, too. Have you experienced exasperation and anger at a government that instead of serving you, needs to be endured by you? So have I.


I am like you. Many of our countrymen have already voted with their feet - migrating to other countries in search of change or tranquility. They have endured hardship, risked their lives because they believe that compared to their current state here, there is more hope for them in another country, no matter how bleak it may be. In moments when I thought of only my own welfare, I also wondered - is it possible that I can find the peace and quiet that I crave in another country? Is our government beyond redemption? Has it been written that the Filipino’s lot is merely to suffer?


Today marks the end of a regime indifferent to the appeals of the people. It is not Noynoy who found a way. You are the reason why the silent suffering of the nation is about to end. This is the beginning of my burden, but if many of us will bear the cross we will lift it, no matter how heavy it is.


Through good governance in the coming years, we will lessen our problems. The destiny of the Filipino will return to its rightful place, and as each year passes, the Filipino’s problems will continue to lessen with the assurance of progress in their lives.


We are here to serve and not to lord over you. The mandate given to me was one of change. I accept your marching orders to transform our government from one that is self-serving to one that works for the welfare of the nation.


This mandate is the social contract that we agreed upon. It is the promise I made during the campaign, which you accepted on election day.


During the campaign we said, “If no one is corrupt, no one will be poor.” That is no mere slogan for posters -- it
is the defining principle that will serve as the foundation of our administration.


Our foremost duty is to lift the nation from poverty through honest and effective governance.
The first step is to have leaders who are ethical, honest, and true public servants. I will set the example. I will strive to be a good model. I will not break the trust you have placed in me. I will ensure that this, too, will be the advocacy of my Cabinet and those who will join our government.


I do not believe that all of those who serve in our government are corrupt. In truth, the majority of them are honest. They joined government to serve and do good. Starting today, they will have the opportunity to show that they have what it takes. I am counting on them to help fight corruption within the bureaucracy.


To those who have been put in positions by unlawful means, this is my warning: we will begin earning back the trust of our people by reviewing midnight appointments. Let this serve as a warning to those who intend to continue the crooked ways that have become the norm for too long.


To our impoverished countrymen, starting today, your government will be your champion.
We will not disregard the needs of our students. We will begin by addressing the glaring shortage in classrooms and educational facilities.


Gradually, we will lessen the lack of infrastructures for transportation, tourism and trade. From now on, mediocre work will not be good enough when it comes to roads, bridges, and buildings because we will hold contractors responsible for maintaining their projects in good condition.


We will revive the emergency employment
program established by former President Corazon Aquino. This will provide jobs for local communities and will help in the development of their and our economy.


We will not be the cause of your suffering or hardship. We will strengthen collections by the Bureau of Internal Revenue and we will fight corruption in the Bureau of Customs in order to fund our objectives for the public welfare, such as:
· Quality education, including vocational education, so that those who choose not to attend college or those who cannot afford it can find dignified livelihood;
· Improved public health services such as PhilHealth for all within three years;
· A home for every family, within safe communities.


We will strengthen the armed forces and the police, not to serve the interests of those who want to wield power with impunity, but to give added protection for ordinary folk. The armed forces and the police risk their lives daily so that the nation can live in peace and security. The population has doubled and yet their numbers remain unchanged. It is not right that those who make sacrifices are treated pitifully.


If there was a fertilizer scam in the past, today there will be security for farmers. We will help them with irrigation, extension services, and marketing their products at the best possible prices.


We are directing Secretary Alcala to set up trading centers that will directly link farmers and consumers thereby eliminating middlemen and opportunities for corruption. In this way, funds can be shared by farmers and consumers. We will make our country attractive to investors. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance to business. This is the only means by which we can provide jobs for our people.


Our goal is to create jobs at home so that there will be no need to look for employment abroad. However, as we work towards that end, I am ordering the DFA, POEA, OWWA, and other relevant agencies to be even more responsive to the needs and welfare of our overseas Filipino workers.


We will strengthen the process of consultation and feedback. We will strive to uphold the constitutional right of citizens to information on matters of public concern.


We relived the spirit of people power during the campaign. Let it take us to good and effective governance. Those who believe in people power put the welfare of others before their own.


I can forgive those who did me wrong but I have no right to forgive those who abused our people.
To those who talk about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. When we allow crimes to go unpunished, we give consent to their occurring over and over again. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.


We are also happy to inform you the acceptance of Chief Justice Hilario Davide of the challenge of strengthening and heading a Truth Commission that will shed light on many unanswered issues that continue to haunt our country.


My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflict, inclusive of the interests of all -- may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.
We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. With proper governance life will improve for all. When we are all living well, who will want to go back to living under oppression?


If I have all of you by my side, we will be able to build a nation in which there will be equality of opportunity, because each of us fulfilled our duties and responsibilities equally.


After the elections, you proved that it is the people who wield power in this country.
This is what democracy means. It is the foundation of our unity. We campaigned for change. Because of this, the Filipino stands tall once more. We are all part of a nation that can begin to dream again.


To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.


We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment
, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”


Today, I am inviting you to pledge to yourselves and to our people. No one shall be left behind.
No more junkets, no more senseless spending. No more turning back on pledges made during the campaign, whether today or in the coming challenges that will confront us over the next six years. No more influence-peddling, no more patronage politics, no more stealing. No more sirens, no more short cuts, no more bribes. It is time for us to work together once more.


We are here today because we stood together and believed in hope. We had no resources to campaign other than our common faith in the inherent goodness of the Filipino.


The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. To those among you who are still undecided about sharing the common burden I have only one question: Are you going to quit now that we have won?


You are the boss so I cannot ignore your orders. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to your needs and aspirations.


You are the ones who brought me here - our volunteers - old, young, celebrity, ordinary folks who went around the country to campaign for change; my household help who provided for all my personal needs; my family, friends, colleagues at work, who shared, cared, and gave their support; my lawyers who stayed all hours to guard my votes and make sure they were counted; and the millions of Filipinos who prevailed, kept faith, and never lost hope - I offer my heartfelt gratitude.


I will not be able to face my parents and you who have brought me here if do not fulfill the promises I made.
My parents sought nothing less, died for nothing less, than democracy and peace. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.


My hope is that when I leave office, everyone can say that we have traveled far on the right path, and that we are able to bequeath a better future to the next generation. Join me in continuing this fight for change.


Thank you and long live the Filipino people!