Homeless for the Holidays

The New Year looks bleak for about 60 families. Fire hit a densely populated residential area here on Christmas Eve and left them homeless.
More or less 50 houses and business establishments were damaged by the blaze along the main road in Sitio Ambulong, Barangay Manoc-manoc.
Most of the damaged houses were made of light materials.
The affected residents spent Christmas Day – and most likely the New Year, too – at an evacuation center in Barangay Manoc-manoc.
They were relying on food packs, shelter assistance and water supply from the municipal government of Malay, Aklan.
A Muslim community was also affected. Its mosque was partially damaged.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) estimated the damage at P10 million.
BFP’s Special Fire Protection Unit investigators were still trying to determine the cause and the extent of damage as of press time.
No one was reported dead or missing but 10 people — seven men and three women — sustained second-degree burns, lacerations and abrasions.
Sixty-four children were among the displaced.
The fire started at 10:50 a.m. Firefighters declared a “fire out” at 2:45 p.m.
Personnel from the BFP’s Special Fire Protection Unit, Boracay Action Group, Shangri-La Boracay, Boracay Tubi System, Boracay Island Water Company, and the Boracay Fire Rescue and Ambulance Volunteers helped put out the blaze.
Among the business establishments hit were Alevir’s Trading and Sespene Trading.
The Boracay Tourist Assistance Center rerouted the vehicular traffic from the main road to the circumferential road.
The fire also interrupted the electrical power service in the island resort.
Eight houses from the Muslim community were struck by the fire, according to Muamar Faisal Arumpac, president of the Boracay Muslim Community Association.
“The local government of Malay led by Mayor John Yap promised support for the Muslim community,” said Faisal who met with Yap hours after the fire.
Some of the Muslims whose houses got burned sought refuge at the mosque.
Several foreigners also helped put out the fire.
Around 300 firefighters, residents and foreigners responded, according to Lieutenant Commander Randall Parker, an American volunteer for the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary.
“Some of us foreigners who reside in this island resort wanted to preserve the beauty of Boracay,” said Parker.
Meanwhile, business group Boracay Foundation Inc. (BFI) is also appealing for donation to help the fire victims.
“In the true spirit of Christmas, let us all help our community members who lost their homes and all their belongings during the fire that hit Ambulong area,” urged BFI Executive Director Pia Miraflores.

BFP estimates damage at P10M

FIRE struck several houses and business establishments in Boracay Island on Christmas Eve.
The blaze started from along the main road in Sitio Ambulong, Barangay Manoc-manoc, and swept through a 2-hectare property near a Muslim community.
At least 40 houses made of light materials were destroyed, according to initial reports from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
As of posting time, fire investigators were still trying to determine the cause of the blaze and if there were any injuries or casualties.
The damage was estimated to have reached P10 million, according to the BFP, but investigation was still ongoing.
The fire started at 10:50 a.m. on Thursday. Firefighters declared a “fire out” at 2:45 p.m.
Personnel from the BFP’s Special Fire Protection Unit and volunteer fire brigades responded.
Among the business establishments hit by the blaze were Alevir’s Trading and Sespene Trading.
Amid the fire, the Boracay Tourist Assistance Center rerouted the vehicular traffic from the main road to the circumferential road.
The incident also interrupted the electrical power service in the island resort.

Fire hits Station 3 area in Boracay

A fire is engulfing a residential area at the popular tourist destination of Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan.

Fire officials said the fire broke out at around 11:30 a.m. of December 24, 2015 in the Ambulong residential area near Station 3and has destroyed at least 100 homes.

As of this posting, firemen and fire volunteers are still battling the fire from spreading in other areas in the area. No casualties have been reported.

Boracay still a good tourism potential for 2016

For Boracay tourism, the year 2016 is anticipated as a good year despite several reports that the famous island resort is facing environmental degradation.

Reports by different international and national organizations reveal that Boracay faces flooding and coliform issues.

Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores said that around ten cruise ships are expected to dock at the Boracay port, the largest of which is scheduled to arrive in January.

"There is also a lot of new tourism facilities that are being constructed. We actually expect we may experience lack of carpenters, masons and the like because of the ongoing construction boom," Miraflores said.

"For 2016, we actually expect more tourists from Kuala Lumpur," he said.

The Aklan Congressional District Office together with the Department of Public Works and Highways are currently building various tourism road access in the province. Several new high-end resorts are also expected to rise next year.

Also, currently the Asia Foundation in cooperation with the Iloilo Business Club is in partnership with the Aklan Provincial Government and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Aklan. They will hold a series of conferences aimed to determine new high-impact road networks for the province.

From January to December 20 this year, Boracay tourist arrivals reached 1,500,070, according to the reports of the Caticlan Jetty Port.

The figure is currently much higher compared to the 2014 tourists arrivals report which is 1,472,352.

For her part, Aklan Vice Gov. Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo said that Boracay, despite its problems, is still a huge tourism potential and that the Aklan provincial government is bent on pushing for environmental conservation programs.

13th International Body Building tilt in Boracay

 Preparations are now underway for the 13th Philippine Committee of Bodybuilding and Fitness (PCBF) Boracay Body Building Championship at the Ambassador in Paradise in this resort island, December 19.

Georgen Dela Cuesta, organizer of the annual event, said that it will be participated in by PCBF officials, judges and athletes coming from different countries. Oscar Gan, PCBF president from Metro Manila, will also be coming.

"The event was widely known as the Boracay Body Building Championship but it is now being rebranded as the PCBF Body Building Championship as we are now officially accredited by the national committee," said Dela Cuesta.

Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo is among those who has confirmed as guest of honor representing the tourism industry of the province.

In 2002, the event was originally created as Mr. Muscular focused only in male physique competition. It, however, evolved as the years passed with an added category on women on physique, bikini and figure.

SP to investigate rampant selling of helmet shells in Boracay

 The Sanguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan is set to investigate the alleged rampant sale of porcelain clams or China Clams and helmet shells in this resort island.

Provincial Board Member Russia Soviet Dela Cruz said these clams are being sold at Php500 each and above depending on their size.

"I was informed that since 2008, the BFAR has already made some confiscations at both Caticlan Airport and the Kalibo International Airport. Volumes of confiscated shells are now pending at the BFAR-Kalibo office," said Dela Cruz.

The BFAR has been prohibiting the sale and keeping of both the China clams and the helmet shells since these are considered endangered.

"Tourists might be turned off with our tourism industry since they are buying these items in Boracay not knowing that it is illegal and then the government will just confiscate them at the airport," said Dela Cruz.

SMC urge more farmers for its cassava assemblers program

 Food and beverage giant San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is looking for more farmers for its nationwide cassava assemblers program.

This was bared by Raymund Britanico, SMC Business Development Analyst, during the Agri Business Forum initiated by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Aklan.

Britanico said that the cassava, which was once considered as the food of the poor, is now considered as the "food of the millennium."

"The cassava is now being globally considered as a survival food in the midst of global warming," he said.

Cassava can be used for manufacturing food for livestock, papers, sweetener, medicines, alcohol, and plywood, among others.

The SMC is looking for farmers and cooperatives who have at least 20 hectares of agriculture land devoted to cassava plantation. The SMC then will contract the farmers as a market with purchase agreement.

Britanico said that the SMC Cassava Assemblers program has contracted 188 assemblers in the provinces of Negros Oriental, Isabela and various provinces in Luzon and Mindanao areas.

It has yielded some 200,000 metric tons of cassava, collectively planted in 58,000 hectares. Farmers of the program earned PHP2.41 billion in 2014 benefiting thousands of farmers in 44 provinces.(

Aklan PB warns of possible food shortage in Boracay due to El Niño

Provincial Board member Soviet Russia Dela Cruz, chairman of the committee on agriculture, warned of possible food shortage in the resort island due to the El Niño phenomenon.

Dela Cruz said that already Boracay has been importing food supply from the provinces of Iloilo, Baguio, Davao, Capiz, and Mindoro among others.

The PAGASA earlier said that majority of the provinces in the country will be affected by the El Niño.

"Currently, the Provincial Board is enacting a budget of some PHP100 million for agriculture for the whole year of 2016. We are also looking at possibly sourcing out a budget from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to be used by the province for mitigation of the El Nino phenomenon," said Dela Cruz.

The provincial government has recently created a task force on El Niño.

"The task force also hopes of purchasing drilling equipment as soon as possible to be used for searching water supply for farmers and as potable water. Currently, farmers who could not be serviced by the National Irrigation Administration are advised to plant agricultural products that are not dependent on water," he said.

Boracay security tightened

 Security in this resort island has been tightened to ensure the safety of tourists this Yuletide and possibly until the summer vacation next year.
Lieutenant Junior Grade Edison Diaz, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Caticlan chief, said tourists should expect long lines at the port because of the tightened security measures.
Tourists are now obliged to sign a manifesto before the boat leaves to and from Boracay. The strict implementation creates a bottle neck of tourists falling in line in boarding the motor boat.
Tourists are also strictly required to wear lifejackets during the trip.
“We are requiring tourists to follow our strict implementation for proper accountability of each passengers going to and from Boracay. I am implementing these tightened security measures as long as I am the head of PCG-Caticlan,” he said./

Incoming 2016, a good year for Boracay cruise tourism

The Aklan provincial government considers the incoming year 2016 to be a good year for cruise ship tourism in this resort island with a vessel bringing the biggest number of tourists onboard so far.

Niven Maquirang, Caticlan jetty port administrator, said that a Celebrity Cruise Ship is expected to bring in more than 2, 000 tourists coming from all over the world in Boracay by 2016.

Maquirang announced this to the local media covering the plaque exchanging ceremony on the arrival of the M/S Silver Shadow Cruise Tuesday afternoon in Boracay island.

The said cruise ship carried more than 400 tourists with crew members.

"We thank the Department of Tourism for promoting Boracay along with Metro Manila and Palawan as a cruise ship tourism destination of the Philippines in South East Asia," said Maquirang.

The Jetty Port administration said that around 10 cruise ships visit Boracay every year.

Different cruise ship companies have decided on embarking in Boracay journey because this resort island is famous all over the world.

Former DoT Secretary urges domestic tourists appreciation

Former Department of Secretary  Richard 'Dick' Gordon has urged the national government to further enhance domestic tourism to boost the country's economic growth.

Gordon was here recently during the symbolic opening of shelter sites of the Philippine Red Cross in nearby New Washington town.

"There are 55 million Filipinos travelling around the country. I hope the national government will continue to make programs to encourage more Filipinos to travel," he said.

Gordon also urged the DOT to take on pro-active measures against several national peace and order concerns.

Aklan vice gov worried about ‘laglag-bala’ incidents at NAIA

 Aklan vice governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo is confident the current investigation into the “laglag-bala” issue at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) can be solved immediately.
She believes, however, it may have a long-term effect in the country’s tourism industry.
“I have heard from the news that the national government is now on top of the situation. I just hope that tourists coming in the country are always on alert with what is going on,” said Quimpo.
Currently, the Department of Tourism is checking with different resorts here if there were reported cancellations of hotel rooms due to the “laglag-bala” issue.
Recently, a Filipina tourist bound for Boracay was apprehended at the NAIA after fell victim to the scam.

Two fall in Boracay drug bust

Two suspected drug pushers were arrested here recently.
Police identified the suspects as Adrian Timbang, 26, of Lubao, Pampanga and Rose Ann Gajila, 22, of Romblon.
Joint elements from the Boracay police, Malay police and Aklan Provincial Illegal Drugs Task Group conducted a sting operation against the suspects.
Seized during the operation were six sachets of suspected shabu, drug paraphernalia and marked money.
The suspects were brought to Kalibo, Aklan.

Aklanons urged to bring ID cards to avail of terminal fee exemptions

The management of the Caticlan-Cagban Jetty Port urges Aklan residents to show their identification(ID) cards to avail themselves of exemptions on terminal fees.

Jean Pontero, Special Operations III of the Caticlan Jetty Port, said that in the past they were not so strict in requiring IDs for Aklanon residents. Aklanons are exempted from paying the Php75 terminal fees at the jetty port based on a provincial ordinance.

"But we received reports that non-Aklanons are excusing themselves as local residents to avoid paying the terminal fees," Pontero said.

The jetty port administration has introduced a new technical system where local residents have been provided exclusive lanes separating them from the tourists coming.

"In the exclusive lanes, once Aklanons will present their ID cards they will then be given a bar code. The bar code being provided for free will be used as their ticket to pass through a turnstile machine," she added.

Boracay stakeholders now trained in anti-kidnapping strategies

Hundreds of Boracay stakeholders were trained Monday on anti-kidnapping strategies for their own personal safety.

The training was initiated by the Anti-Kidnapping Group-Visayas of the Philippine National Police here.

The objective of the training is to ensure the safety of both the tourists and the businessmen and prevent themselves from becoming victims of kidnap for ransom syndicates.

Among the topics discussed include The Law on Kidnapping, Trends in Kidnapping, Modus Operandi, Detecting Kidnappers/Suspicious Persons, KFR Group Targets and Categories of Kidnappers, Detecting Safe Houses, Preventive Tips (Education for Prevention, Community Responsibility), Advantages of reporting/Disadvantages of not reporting of kidnapping incidents to police authorities.

The said training was also supported by the local government of Malay, Aklan.

Local parish spearheads weekly candle lighting protest in Boracay

The Parish of the Most Holy Rosary here is spearheading a weekly candle lighting protest to raise awareness to both tourists and the local government that this resort island is over developed.

Fr. Arnaldo Crisostomo, parish priest, said that the candle lighting protest will be held 6 pm of every Thursday at the Willy's Rock here.

"We urge residents, tourists and civic organizations in this resort island to join us in our weekly candle lighting protest to pray for our government authorities to shed light that Boracay is undergoing environmental degradation," Crisostomo said.

Earlier, the parish priest bared that he received report that a group of Taiwanese businessmen are interested in developing the Puka beach here.

The Puka beach has been named in 2013 as one of the best beaches in Asia.

"I am not in favor of the proposed development. Since Puka beach as the last bastion of nature in Boracay, there will be a massive ripple effect on it. Among those is the refuge of the flying foxes will be disturbed causing harm to the so-called cycle of life," Crisostomo said.

Boracay tourist arrivals may hit 1.65M for 2015

A provincial government executive bared that the world-famous resort island may just hit 1.65 million tourist arrivals for 2015.

Caticlan Jetty Port administrator Niven Maquirang said that from January to September 30, Boracay has already registered 1,199,740 foreign and local tourists.

Of this number 592,726 were domestic tourists; 592,726 were foreign tourists and the remaining 33,667 were Overseas Filipino Workers.

"For 2015, we project to reach 1.7M tourists but we may not attain the target. Boracay has been affected by the recent global MERS-COV scare and the recent kidnapping incident in Samal Island, near Davao City," he said.

Maquirang said despite the concerns, Boracay continues to become a cruise ship destination capital in South East Asia.

Boracay PNP braces for peak season

The Boracay Tourists Assistance Center of the Philippine National Police here bared that it is now ready for the anticipated influx of both foreign and local tourists during the last quarter of the year.

Police Senior Inspector Fidel Gentallan, Boracay police chief, said they had partnered with force multipliers such as the Boracay Action Group (BAG).

"In our meeting with the BAG, we agreed for the first time to dispatch police deployment at the Bolabog Beach at the back portion of Boracay. We anticipate the huge number of tourists to visit the beach soon," Gentallan said.

The Boracay PNP bared that the huge influx of tourists will be arriving during semestral break, halloween and the yuletide season.

Government enforcement agencies such as the Philippine Army, Philippine Coast Guard, PNP Maritime Command are also on alert with the anticipated arrival of tourists.

The Aklan Provincial Government targets 1.8 million tourist arrivals for 2015.

Boracay to host 31st ASEAN Maritime Meeting

This resort island is being groomed to host the 31st Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) meeting of the Maritime Transport Technical Working Group.

This was bared by Director Sonia Malaluan from the Manpower Development Service of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Central Office.

"Members from ASEAN Countries will be attending to discuss programs intended for the maritime transport sector in the region," said Malaluan here.

Malaluan is currently one of the organizers of the event to be held in this resort island on April 6-8, 2016.

"The group will also discuss the possibility of a technical overview and coordination for the implementation of the roadmap of competitive and integrated maritime transport in ASEAN," she said,

The Boracay hosting leg is being supported by the Philippine Coast Guard, Department of Health, Department of Tourism, local government of Malay and the Caticlan-Cagban Jetty Port administration.

This year, this resort island hosted several ASEAN events such as the Chief Justices Meeting and the Asia Pacific Economic Conference (APEC) on trade.

SPC to hold nationwide Coral Restoration Day

The Sangkalikasan Producers Cooperative (SPC) will hold a nationwide Coral Restoration Day in different provinces in the country as part of the International Coastal Clean Up (ICC), September 19.

Jose Rodriguez of the SPC said the provinces include Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga, General Santos, Camiguin, Bohol, Palawan, Subic and Bataan.

"We will be using the technology on coral propagation of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology," said Rodriguez.

This year's theme is 'Bring Back Life to the Sea.'

The Coral Restoration Day of the SPC is being supported by the Rotary Zamboanga-North, Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, Mindanao State University, Bohol Island State University, respective provincial and municipal governments, among others.

The SPC has decided to embark on a nationwide coral restoration after it has successfully restored corals in this resort island.

Caticlan residents protest against airport management

Caticlan residents held a protest rally against the management of the airport.
Antonio Cahilig Jr., president of the Caticlan Land Owners association, said they are protesting the P1,000-per-square-meter expropriation payment.
Trans Air, the airport management, through the Public Private Partnership Agreement, is acquiring some 300-square-meter property for the runway expansion of the Caticlan Airport.
“We are not opposing the airport development. We only wanted to be fairly paid. We demand that we should be paid P5,000 per square meter. Lots in Malay, Aklan are worth P5,000 to P10,000 per square meters,” said Cahilig.
Reports said some affected residents have already received court orders directing them to leave their houses.
To ease the tension, the Aklan Provincial Police Office has deployed around 50 police personnel to ensure peace and order.
Cahilig said they are studying their next move after they stage their protest./

Sarmiento to continue police modernization plan

Newly-appointed Department of Interior and Local Government secretary Mel Sarmiento vowed to continue the police modernization plan in the country.

Boracay Police Senior Inspector Fidel Gentallan said that Sarmiento visited him recently. Sarmiento was one of the guest of honors of the Philippine Councilors League national convention held here.

Gentallan said part of the modernization plan is to ensure that all policemen have their respective firearms.

Gentallan has also requested from Sec. Sarmiento additional police personnel for this resort island.

"We need more policemen in Boracay to ensure the safety of tourists especially now that holidays are coming," he said.

Thousands gather in Boracay for PCL Convention

Thousands of councilors from all over the country have gathered in this resort island September 9-11 to attend a national convention.

The event is part of the 3rd Quarterly National Executive Officers and National Board Meeting. Also, it's the third series of their 2015 Continuing Local Legislative Education Program of the Philippines Councilors League (PCL).

Among those personalities who graced the event are outgoing Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas, PCL National President Maybelline Fernandez, Alma Moreno, and Metro Manila Development Authority Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino.

Samar Congressman Mel Sarmiento who was recently appointed as the new DILG Secretary is also expected to come over.

At the local politics, attendees include PCL Provincial president Apolinar Cleope, Malay Mayor John Yap, Malay Councilors Rowen Aguirre and Jupiter Gallenero.

According to the secretariat, more than 1, 100 attendees participated in the event in the first day of the convention.

In his speech, Roxas told Mayor Yap and the participants that the PCL national convention would boost the tourism industry in this side of the country.

“Councilors have also brought in their respective families, saved their money to be spent while in Boracay which would also boost the local economy at the same time,” Roxas said.

The convention is being held in one of the resorts in this resort island.(

Aklan Media cited for peaceful take over of Boracay property

The Aklan Provincial Police Office is keen on citing the local media here for coverage leading to the peaceful turn over of a contested property in this resort island, Monday.

Police Supt. Gaylod Loyola, provincial deputy chief of operations, said that the Aklan Police and Defense Press Corps did well in reporting blow by blow account of the proceedings.

Loyola served as the ground commander of 161 police troops to ensure the peaceful execution of a writ as ordered by the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court ruled that the 6,000 square meters lot at Pinaungon, Balabag Boracay belongs to its rightful owner claimant Ruth Tirol-Jaranilla.

The occupant, Tapuz family have been claiming ownership of the lands since 1990's.

Loyola said that police had attempted twice for several years to fence the area in favor of Jaranilla, but the residents are opposing.

"For this third attempt we have invited the media for a transparency of the execution," said Loyola.

Loyola said he had already instructed his staff to start the process of officially recognizing the media in its role in peaceful turnover. The recognition ceremony is expected to happen next week.

South Koreans donate day care center in Boracay

 A group of South Koreans donated a modern day care center for children in the island.

In a ceremonial turn over held on Wednesday, the municipal government received the facility from the said foreigners who are members of the Boracay Community Association.

The rites were witnessed by representatives of Korea Sports Council of the Philippines, United Korean Community Association of the Philippines, and the Barangay Balabag Council.

For several years, South Koreans are the largest number of foreign tourists coming to this resort island.

"This project shows that the South Koreans are helping local community projects," said Malay mayor John Yap.

As a result, the former day care center occupied by a teacher and 45 pupils situated in island's Diniwid beach will be converted in to a school.

31 tourists rescued in Boracay this August

Around 31 tourists have been saved from drowning in this resort island in the month of August.

According to the Philippine Coast Guard, nine of these cases have been recorded August 22 at the height of typhoon 'Ineng.'

Victims comprise mix of local and foreign tourists some of them were South Koreans.

One of the South Korean victim was identified as Kim Jumz, 50.

The point of incident was recorded at Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3 beach including the Willy's Rock.

PCG continues to urged tourists to be careful when swimming especially during habagat season.

BORACAY WATER TAX

The Aklan Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) is planning to renew negotiations with the Ayala water utility firm over water the collection of taxes in the world renowned Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan.  Merlene Aborka, PENRO chief for technical operations, said that previous negotiations with the Ayala group fizzled out due to legality issues. Lawyers of the Ayala group reportedly asked for parameters regarding water tax assessment in this resort island.  “Currently, we are studying the Local Government Code on how we could effectively collect water usage tax from the Ayala group,” said Aborka. The Ayala water distribution firm, which operates in the island resort, is planning to expand its services to other municipalities in Aklan.

Coast Guard reminds Boracay beach goers to observe warning signs

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is advising the public to observe warning signs, specifically avoid swimming beyond red and yellow flags at the beach for their safety.

On Monday, a 12-year old American national was saved from drowning by two lifeguards in Boracay Island.

Reports from the Philippine Coast Guard-Boracay indicated that the child swam alone at Willy's Rock at station 1 at the height of the habagat season.

Fortunately, lifeguards Gilbert Dugang and Rex Dugang noticed the child struggling to get out of the raging waters thus immediately responded.

He was advised not to return to the beach anymore.

Young Aklanon singers in musical competitions

Three young singers whose parents are Aklanons are making waves in international and national competitions.
Ben Mobo, son of the late Aklan governor Benhur Mobo, said his nieces in Brunei won in the prestigious 19th Annual World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA). The competition, which is dubbed the “Olympics of Talents,” was held in Long Beach, California, USA.
Shana Mobo-Holmes, 13, was a semi-finalist in the Junior Vocal Solo and Modeling categories. She also received a medal for Industry Award and was the Grand Champion Division Winner for Original Work. Shana sang an original composition “Tomorrow Starts Now,” an uplifting song that expresses the millennials’ strong desire to shape a better future.
Her sister Sienna, 8, on the other hand was a Grand Finalist and Multi-Medalist for the same categories. Sienna brought the audience to tears with her heartwarming rendition of “Castle on a Cloud” from “Les Misérables.”
“The sisters chose to represent the Philippines as a nod to their maternal heritage. Their dad is British. Their Filipino roots are entrenched in Aklan where their mother is a scion of the Mobo and Patricio political clan. They go home to Kalibo for the annual family reunion, take part in the famous Ati-Atihan Festival and spend time in Boracay and Batan to visit their ancestral home,” Mobo said.
Meanwhile, the parents of Altair Aguelo from Team Bamboo in “The Voice Kids Season 2” were from Tangalan, Aklan. Aguelo hails from San Diego, California, USA.
He is advancing to the sing-off competition after he was picked by his coach as one of the contenders for the Top 6./

Chinese professors to establish English Academy in Boracay

A group of Chinese professors is keen on putting up a Chinese academy in this resort island.

In fact, J Xaing Wang, Chief Executive Officer of Ciwong.com has started training Boracay-based Filipino teachers to take part in their program. While the training has already started, the English tutorial company has also started negotiating with the local government for its proposal.

The training for interested English tutors are being held at the Shangri-la Hotel here. Aside from Wang, the other Chinese professors are Mr. Ying Liu, Professor Yutu Gong, Zi When Lu and Ms. Jue Wang.

"We are placing the name Asian Pacific TESOL Society (APTESOL) for our academy. We are planning to lure not only Chinese to learn English but also countries in Asia Pacific as well," said Wang.

The said training program was also in collaboration with the Department of Education-District of Malay.

"We promise would be tutors to triple their income once the English academy has been officially established," he said.

Wind farm gets P7.9-M penalty for cutting trees

A wind farm in Aklan province has been penalized P7.9-million for illegally cutting trees.

Merlene Aborka, acting chief of technical division of the Aklan Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), said PetroWind Energy Inc.’s (PWEI) paid P7.9-million as penalty fee to Western Visayas regional office of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-6).

“PetroWind has apparently cut trees illegally in protected areas in Malay town,” said Aborka.

“PetroWind asked for a permit to cut the trees, but did not wait for approval. That’s why it committed environmental violations,” added Aborka.

800

Some 800 firms along the highway of this resort island are affected by the road setback program of the local government of Malay.

Of the number, some 121 firms had already complied with the road setback plan while the rest are yet to follow.

Rowen Aguirre, representing the local government of Malay said that the road setback program is meant to ease traffic condition in this resort island.

"Under the road setback program, each establishment along the highway of Boracay should provide space for pedestrians and parking areas in their firms, This means that they had to self-demolish or face consequences," said Aguirre.

Aguirre said the local government is still finalizing the deadlines for establishments to comply. After the deadline, Aguirre said the local government may enforce demolition of illegal structures along the highway.

Iloilo, Boracay boatmen seek exemption from upgrading their vessel

Boat organizations from Iloilo and Boracay have sought exemption from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) policy to convert their wooden boats to fiber glass.

Godofredo Sadiasa, representing the Caticlan-Boracay Transport Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CBTMPC), said that he had been consulted by the MARINA officials for a meeting recently.

The MARINA had decided to implement the zero wooden boats policy after a wooden vessel sank in Eastern Visayas recently killing scores of passengers.

Sadiasa said aside from the CBTMPC, boatmen plying Guimaras-Iloilo and vice versa has also sought exemption from the new policy.

"We had sought exemption because we are only transporting the passengers for ten minutes. The zero wooden boat policy should be implemented to those vessels plying longer routes," Sadiasa said.

The CBTMPC is being considered as the richest transport cooperative in the country. Sadiasa said the cooperative had 68 wooden boat with outrigger and three fiber glass boats without outrigger.

Kalibo, Davao airports named among world’s most efficient

The Airport Council International (ACI) has named the Kalibo International Airport (KIA) and the Davao International Airport as the eighth and sixth most efficient airports in the world, respectively.
The said information has been generated based on the official statement of the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). The HKIA generated 264.6 points of workload unit.

The Kalibo Airport has earned 211 points while the Davao International Airport ranked sixth with 222.22 points.

KIA has been named as efficient in terms of aircraft movement and traffic control in 2013. It reportedly managed to handle air traffic from different countries despite its small size. The council has submitted its report for 2013, but only released the first-quarter survey of 2015.

Other efficient airports include Tokyo (248.5) in the second spot and Dubai with 245.4 in third.

Engineer Martin Terre, chief of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines-Kalibo, said that the report surprises many.

“We are inspired and vow to further improve our services at the airport,” he said.

The ACI is the only global trade representative of the world’s airports. Established in 1991, ACI represents airports’ interest with governments and international organizations such as International Civil Aviation Organization.

It also develops standards, policies and recommends practices for airports; and provides information and training opportunities to raise standards around the world.

Hawaii to help Boracay beach’s enhancement

The state government of Hawaii has reportedly offered its help in the beach enhancement program of this resort island.
Vice Gov. Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo said several Hawaii state officials met with Malay officials over the weekend to discuss the program.
The visit was organized by the Philippine embassy in the United States.
“We do not know what have been discussed. But I am sure whatever has been agreed upon would be for the best interests of our famed resort island,” said Quimpo.
The state of Hawaii has declared Dec. 20 a day for Filipinos in recognition of the sacadas who were considered the first group of migrants in the United States.

HIV-AIDS spread in 12 Aklan towns

Data from the Provincial AIDS Council (PAC) here revealed that there are people living with HIV-AIDS (human immunodeficiency virus-acquired immune deficiency syndrome) in at least 12 out of Aklan’s 17 towns.
The PAC’s Debbie Villaflor said 51 cases of HIV-AIDS have been recorded in Aklan since 1984. Seven of them had already died.
Based on the official report as of March 2015, Kalibo has registered the most number with 15 asymptomatic cases. Five of them have shown signs of HIV-AIDS. Malay town follows with 11 asymptomatic cases with zero HIV-AIDS symptoms.
Other towns include Nabas, with three asymptomatic cases with one HIV-AIDS case; Altavas and Banga each have one asymptomatic case and two HIV-AIDS cases. Makato town has three asymptomatic cases.
Batan, Ibajay, Lezo, Madalag, Malinao and Tangalan towns have one asymptomatic case each.
“While the latest data was gathered March, right now we have a suspected HIV-AIDS case in Libacao town. We also suspect that New Washington has an HIV-AIDS positive patient but may still not be aware of his condition,” said Villaflor.The PAC has urged Aklanons to undergo HIV-AIDS examination at the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbukon Memorial Hospital here.
According to the website of MedlinePlus, asymptomatic HIV infection is a phase of chronic infection with human immunodeficiency virus during which there are no symptoms of HIV infection./

Aklan to host Investment Forum

 The Aklan provincial government is planning to initiate an Investment Forum to stimulate public and private partnership on July 17 in Kalibo, Aklan.

Aklan Congressman Teodorico Haresco said that the forum also aims to look for partners in financing the construction, operation and maintenance of public infrastructures and development projects.

Expected to keynote the investment forum is Peter Wallace, the chairman and president of the Wallace Business Forum.

Among the identified major projects available for financing include roads, airports, ports, water supply, health facilities, agriculture, sanitary landfills, power generation, and irrigation facilities.

The forum is also being supported by the Department of Pubic Works and Highways, Department of Transportation and Communication, Philippine Ports Authority, Department of Energy, Tourism Infrastructure Economic Zone Authority (TIEZA), National Irrigation Administration, Local Water Utilities Administration.

Also included are the different funding institutions, and private sector investors like the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Aklan.

The investment forum will be held at the Corazon Cabagnot Memorial Training Center at Barangay Old Buswang.

Boracay's new officers named

The Boracay Foundation Incorporated (BFI)has retained Ilongo businessman Henry Chusuey as its chairman during its recent election held here. BFI is considered as the largest business organization in this resort island.

Also Dionisio Salme continued to be the BFI president with other newly elected officers Jose Macavinta as its vice president for internal affairs; Nenette Aguirre Graf, vice president for external affairs; Chip Garcia as vice president for finance; publicist Johnny Dayang as vice president for corporate communication.

Other officers elected are Acs Altava as secretary, Harvey Geelito, treasurer; Bebot Gadon, auditor.

Members of the board are Peter Tay, Commodore Leonard Tirol, En Calvert, Connie Helgen, Mike Labatiao and Jupiter Aelred Gallenero.

The induction ceremony is set on July 18, 2015.

No state of calamity in Boracay

The local government of Malay, Aklan is unlikely to declare a state of calamity in this resort island despite an estimated Php 20- million damages caused by the recent fire incident here.

Malay Councilor Rowen Aguirre said that the council did not see the need to declare a state of calamity.

At least five were injured while around four hectares of boarding houses, a public market and residential areas were ravaged by fire recently at Bukid Talipapa along Barangay Manoc Manoc here.

Hundreds of residents and resort employees were also affected by the fire. The declaration of state of calamity is needed to access the local government budget on disaster response.

Also, the declaration of state of calamity is needed by the employees to avail of a calamity loan either from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) or the Social Security System (SSS).

Investigation as to the cause of fire is still going on. The Bureau of Fire and Protection said that it is investigating all angles including the possibility of foul play.

Caticlan port seeks DOH help on MERS

Port authorities are asking the Department of Health (DOH) what to do in light of the spread of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in South Korea.
Caticlan jetty port facilitates hundreds of tourists, local and foreign, to this island resort every day.
Majority of the island’s foreign visitors are South Koreans, with their number reaching 9,862 from June 1 to 14 this year alone, port records showed.
The figure was only slightly higher than the 9,657 in the same period last year.
From June to August is the period considered the “super peak season” in terms of South Korean arrivals, according to the jetty port administrator Niven Maquirang.
“We could ask our [port] personnel to wear protective masks, but this might piss the tourists off,” Maquirang said. “The best thing to do is to ask the DOH.”
Three new MERS-CoV cases were recorded in South Korea yesterday, raising the total number of cases to 172, in what could be the largest outbreak outside of Saudi Arabia, international news wires have reported.
Fatalities also rose to 27, with two new deaths — men aged 84 and 87 — recorded from Sunday night to Monday morning, the wire reports said, citing the South Korean health ministry.
Guarding Western Visayas’ entry points is crucial in preventing the spread of MERS-CoV, according to DOH Region 6.
The region’s three airports servicing international flights — in Cabatuan, Iloilo; Silay City, Negros Occidental; and Kalibo, Aklan — have been equipped with thermal scanners to detect persons with fever, one of MERS-CoV’s symptoms./

Fire ravages four hectares in Boracay

Fire gutted almost four hectares on world-famous leisure beach destination, Boracay Island in Malay town.

Based on an initial report from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the June 17 fire started around 2:45 p.m. and was declared under control by 4:50 p.m.

The fire started at the house of one Marcelino Sotto in Sitio Manggayad, Manoc-Manoc village, which is located on the southernmost part of the island.


he fire quickly spread via electrical lines, eating up more than 100 houses until it reached the public market which locals call “Talipapa Bukid.”

The three-hectare market, where those on the island go to buy all sorts of affordable goods, was totally wiped out in the fire.

Former Malay town councilor, Jonathan Cabrera, said the Bureau of Fire Protection had initially planned to send over fire trucks from mainland Malay to beef up efforts by local Boracay firefighters.

Boats were ready to ferry additional fire trucks from Caticlan Port to Boracay Island, but was called off when local firefighters including those from the Boracay Action Group led by prominent islander and Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary Commander Leonard Tirol were able to virtually put the fire under control by 5 p.m.

However, it was not until 7 p.m. that the fire was totally put out.

Fire victims, many of whom are employees and workers of resort and hotel establishments on the island, are currently temporarily staying at the Manoc-Manoc village gymnasium.

Authorities say five people were injured in the fire. No casualty was recorded.

The incident has not only caused discomfort to locals, but to tourists as well. Access roads were impassable to vehicles as it was filled with people.

Wednesday’s fire was not the first time that a major blaze occurred on

Boracay. Last January 2005, a fire also severely damaged the Talipapa or flea market for tourists located on Station3.

Cabrera added that vendors who were victims of the January, 2005 fire, were again hit by the fire last Wednesday.

“They were relocated to Talipapa Bukid after the January 2005 fire,” Cabrera noted.


Read more at http://www.mb.com.ph/fire-ravages-four-hectares-in-boracay/#bqSgmuZWzxW6lrD7.99

Fire engulfs 100 homes in Boracay

 A fire on world-famous beach destination Boracay in Malay, Aklan broke out at around 2  p.m. Wednesday (June 17, 2015).

Based on initial reports, an estimated 100 homes have been razed in the Talipapa area, where the old market used to be located.

Initial reports also say that the fire started in a boarding house, although this has yet to be confirmed.

As of press time, island fire personnel are still battling the fire although they are having a hard time controlling the blaze because of strong winds.

The fire is in an area not near where rsworts or hotels catering to tourists are located.

Boracay tourists, locals: ‘Conserve environment’

Tourists and locals gathered at the Willy’s Rock here to call on the local and national government to ensure the island’s environmental sustainability.
Estimated to be more than a hundred, they staged a rally in light of the series of online petitions by the Friends of Flying Foxes, a group leading conservation efforts for bats here.
Organizers of the protest also called on the municipal government of Malay, Aklan, which has jurisdiction over Boracay, to cancel the permit for the construction of an “underwater resort” at the Puka Beach.
The protest on Monday started with a candle-lighting ceremony at the beachfront and a public reading of an “environmental oath” to conserve the island.
Boracay-based international entertainer Armand “TJ” Tajnlangit and an 11-year-old girl led the singing of songs about environmental conservation./

Globe Platinum completes construction of Noah's Ark classrooms

KALIBO, Aklan- Seven municipalities in Aklan are renewed with hope from the devastation of typhoon Haiyan in 2013 as Globe Telecom premium postpaid brand Globe Platinum turned over new classrooms under its rehabilitation and rebuilding initiation dubbed as Noah's Ark to the Aklan provincial government in a ceremonial turnover session held at the New Washington Central Elementary School.

As part of its commitment to nation-building, Globe Platinum together with Globe Rewards, participated with Habitat for Humanity to construct classrooms in seven Aklan municipalities such as Libacao, Madalag, Banga, Batan, Altavas Balete and New Washington. The classrooms were funded through the generosity of Globe Platinum costumers and are built to double as evacuation sites with its capacity to hold a large number of people complete with toilet, bath and kitchen facilities.

The ceremonial turn over was attended by representatives from Globe, Habitat for Humanity,  Department of Education and the local government offices of New Washington and Aklan. The LGUs expressed their appreciation to Globe Platinum and its generous costumers for driving the advocacy of giving and sharing to help others.

More than 5,000 students have benefited for the new classrooms. According to Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores ," The students and communities of Aklan would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to Globe and its generous costumers who made Noah's Ark Project possible. It's wonderful to see how people's selfless generosity can create an enormous impact on so many lives."

The event was capped by a ribbon-cutting ceremony as Globe Platinum Director Kaisie Del Carmen and Habitat for Humanity Chief Marketing Officer Yvone Lih officially turned over the Noah's Ark classrooms to officials of the local and provincial government. A marker of thanks and grand mural of hope were also unveiled during the affair.

"We know how our costumers look for meaningful advocacies to support and we are glad that they were able to inspire their fellow Filipinos with renewed hope through the Noah's Ark Project. This is just the first of many more nation-building efforts we plan to to to give the gift of hope and inspiration to more Filipinos together with the collaborative efforts from our partners and costumers," says Del Carmen.

Apart from the ceremonial turn ove, the group also toured the school, participated in a community mural painting, and helped out in cleaning the classrooms in support of the Department of Education's Brigada Eskwela, a school maintenance and rehabilitation effort in preparation for the opening of classes.

Globe Platinum's Noah's Ark is one of several projects being undertaken by Globe as a development partner for Aklan under the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery (OPARR).

Mass Movement for environment

Friends, there will be a mass action for environment at the famous Willy's Rock here in Boracay Island Monday June 15 at 6 pm. Please bring in candle, rechargeable lamps/lights and bamboo torch to show our united concern for environment.

Kalibo airport on guard vs MERS-CoV

Strict passenger screening measures were ongoing at the Kalibo International Airport in light of the spread of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in South Korea.
Airport authorities were coordinating with the Department of Health in ensuring the safety of all incoming and outgoing passengers, said Martin Terre, director of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines here.
“We have placed a thermal scanner to determine incoming passengers with fever,” he said. “Those with fever will be taken to a quarantine office.”
The protocol will be strictly implemented on passengers in direct and chartered international flights.
Kalibo International Airport has direct flights to and from South Korea.
The World Health Organization has warned of a possible MERS-CoV outbreak in South Korea./

Swiss caught with drug posts bail

The 45-year-old Swiss caught trying to smuggle an illegal drug into a jail here was out on bail.
Businessman Kidd Bernhard Kiefer paid P200,000 for his temporary liberty.
After indicting Kiefer, the Aklan Provincial Prosecutor’s Office gave the suspect two options: seek preliminary investigation or get charged with illegal drug possession.
During the preliminary investigation, Kiefer will be jailed while the prosecutor studies the case for two months.
Kiefer opted to get charged immediately, which would give him the chance to post bail as soon as possible.
The Swiss was caught in possession of hashish, a potent form of marijuana, concealed in a cigarette pack at the Aklan Rehabilitation Center in Barangay Nalook here.
He was visiting inmate Carlo San Jose, a former cook in his resort in Boracay Island.
San Jose was charged for allegedly raping a British female in the island resort./

Two Arabs charged for human trafficking

At least two Arabs had been charged for human trafficking here after the two minors filed a complaint against them at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here.

Police identified the suspects as Saleh Khalid Abdullah and Jaber Mohammed Kal. They are both 24 years old and a resident of Jubail City, Saudi Arabia.

Police report said that the suspects brought two minor girls from Manila who were lured to take vacation in this resort island.

Upon their arrival at the jetty port, the minors changed their minds and asked the Arabs to send them home. The two Arabs refused the pleas of the children.

Because of this, the children sought assistance from the DSWD who has a stand by children's desk at the said jetty port. The DSWD then sought the help of the police to arrest the suspects.

The suspects had been charged at the Aklan Provincial Prosecutors Office Monday afternoon.

SP urges investigation on 'forced closure' of Ariel's Point

Provincial board member Rodson Mayor urges investigation on the alleged forced closure of the Ariel's Point which is a famous cliff diving site in nearby Buruanga town.

Mayor said that he received reports that Buruanga mayor Concepcion Labindao has implemented forced closure against the cliff diving site without the alleged court process.

"I call on the committee of tourism to investigate this matter," said Mayor.

Earlier, the Ariel's Point management charges Labindao and the rest of the local council at the Office of the Ombudsman for harassment in the said resort. The management said that the forced closure is purely based on opinionated facts only.

The Ariel's Point was considered as one of the best cliff diving site in the world according to a US based newspaper.

Recently, a South Korean tourist was hurt due to the tension between the local government and the Ariel's Point.

Labindao could not be reached for comment.

APEC hosting in Boracay immortalized

 The hosting of this resort island of the historic Asia Pacific Economic Conference (APEC) has been immortalized through environmental conservation.

Jose Rodriguez of the Sangkalikasan Producers Cooperative (SPC) said that they had recently launched the 'APEC Coral Reef Garden' in the sea front of the Seawind Hotel here.

"We hope to forever remember the APEC hosting in Boracay. Since we had just started the coral reforestation we hope to achieve one hectare of coral garden soon," he said.

Aside from the SPC, the local government of Malay has also conducted similar initiative at the sea front of the Paradise Garden Resort.

Boracay hosted APEC's Second Senior Officials Meeting (SOM2) and Related Meetings for Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting last May 10 to 24.

Korean hurt in Aklan dive site accident

Tension continued between the management of a dive site in Aklan and the municipal government of Buruanga following an accident that resulted in the injury of a South Korean tourist over the weekend.

The tourist, who was not identified, was injured during a diving activity at Ariel’s Point, an eco-adventure destination near Boracay Island.

Ariel’s Point owner, Ariel Abriam, said the local government on Saturday installed under water nets at their facility to discourage tourists from diving from the cliff.

The tourist was warned of the risk, but she reportedly ignored it.

The municipal government closed Ariel’s Point due to alleged violation of environmental laws two months ago.

The management reportedly ignored the closure order, saying it was meant to harass them.

Dive site manager Ruby Luces said that last month they prevented personnel of the local government out to serve the closure order from entering the facility.

The management said that time they had 68 foreign guests.

Police seized one of Ariel’s Points service boats for alleged violations. The boat was released later to the facility without penalty.

APEC ministers adopt ‘Boracay Action Agenda’

Asia-Pacific ministers have adopted a plan advancing the regional significance of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The “Boracay Action Agenda” was crafted during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting here.
APEC members recognize that MSMEs are vital to the region’s overall growth, said the Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry secretary Gregory Domingo.
“MSMEs are an important force in economic activity, growth, job creation, community resilience, and innovation,” said Domingo. “We will complement APEC’s initiatives on promoting MSMEs’ participation in the global value chain.”
According to Domingo, Boracay Action Agenda is an action-oriented initiative supporting APEC’s work addressing the barriers MSMEs face in the international trade.
It will also “facilitate their access to regional and global markets, with a strengthened focus on micro and small enterprises,” he said.
Held from May 23 to 24 in Shangri-La Hotel here, the Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting had the theme “Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World.”
The meeting helped identify areas for cooperation and action on trade facilitation, e-commerce, and financing and institutional support, and on MSME internationalization./

Effort to conserve Boracay not enough, says environmental expert

An Aklanon researcher has expressed disappointment over what he claimed was lack of effort of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in ensuring environmental sustainability in this resort island.

Raymund Jacinto Sucgang who works as a researcher at the Philippine Nuclear Institute, organized a team in 2012 to conduct a study on the effect of algal bloom to corals in this resort island.

In 2013, he brought algal bloom samples to Japan for study. He said he took samplings during the post monsoon, pre-monsoon and during summer.

"The result is the waters of Boracay Island is polluted. I found the algal bloom harmful to corals while there is no study yet to determine its (algal bloom) effect to humans yet. I suggest tourists should swim from areas away from the presence of the algal bloom," Sucgang said.

Earlier, the DENR warned resorts here that it would order closure if they had found establishments contributing to the problem on algal bloom.

"The DENR should have undertaken the steps long ago. Right now the Boracay is sick and the way to treat it is through scientific background," Sucgang added.

"The problem continues to worsen since tourists continue to increase its number to Boracay," he added.

He also rejected the claims of the residents that the algal bloom is not harming this resort island.

"The residents may be referring to the green algal bloom. But the beach has presence of blue algal bloom indicating pollution. It came from undeclared septic systems discharging wastes into the sea. Even if it rains hard, the pollution in Boracay still exists," he said.

Opening Remarks

APEC MRT Chair Gregory Domingo
APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting
May 23, 2015, Boracay, Aklan, Philippines

Good morning, Colleagues. I thank all of you for coming here.

According to legend, the name “Boracay” comes from the local word “borac” meaning “cotton” and refers to the famous white, cottony color and texture of Boracay’s sandy beach.

We have scheduled the meetings so that there will be time to go to the beach early mornings and late afternoons. We'll try to keep the meetings short so we are ahead of schedule. There is a famous saying in the Philippines that "What happens in Boracay, stays in Boracay". But I think that saying refers to private things. In APEC's case, we will not follow that rule because whatever we accomplish here, we want the world to know. I propose that we start work immediately so that we can all enjoy Boracay’s alluring beauty.

This year, we adopted the theme of “Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World”. Inclusive growth has been on the APEC table from the beginning – since Bogor in 1994 when Leaders committed to reinforce economic cooperation “on the basis of equal partnership, shared responsibility, mutual respect, common interest and common benefit.”

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in the realization of this vision and in the long-term growth of our respective economies and the entire APEC region as they comprise the great majority of businesses. Thus, I consider it very important that our approach includes the interest of SMEs, particularly micro and rural enterprises, as a priority. An important component of this effort is to bolster their ability of to take advantage of cross border business opportunities that will boost our economies in the process. Let us note that recognizing the diverse characters and different capacities of SMEs is an important parameter in pursuing interventions that are reflective of and responsive to their needs.

Colleagues, our promotion of trade and investment has provided a solid framework for growth and prosperity. Certainly, inequality and poverty are still present and remain the biggest challenges to our economies. But over the past 50 years, trade has proved to be a powerful engine of growth. Thus, we need to expand trade and investment and encourage economic dynamism to achieve strong, sustainable and inclusive growth. APEC has a particular responsibility in this regard being an important regional bloc and a major player in international trade.

APEC meetings in Boracay safe – PNP

The conduct of the second senior officials’ meeting of the 2015 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit from May 9-21 was relatively peaceful, according to the Police Regional Office (PRO-6) of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Around 3,000 policemen from the Special Action Force , Bomb Squad and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) were deployed for the APEC meeting.

There was also an augmentation force from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard and Bureau of Fire Protection.

Meanwhile, the delegates coming from 21 APEC member-countries lauded the vibrant and stunning scenery and natural beauty of the world famous tourist resort island during a farewell dinner hosted by the Philippine government.

With the concept of “Funtasea” (Fantasy), the APEC delegates praised the colorful display of artistry and creativity. Among the artistic concepts include the selfie sensation, island reggae, floating island, and the jellyfish stage decoration.

APEC challenged to interest more youth in agriculture

Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Laura del Rosario has expressed concerns about the apparent lack of interest for agriculture among the younger generation in Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member countries.

“This is a challenge for APEC member-countries as there is a huge demand for food security,” said del Rosario during a press conference here Tuesday during the ongoing 2015 APEC Second Senior Officials Meeting being held here.

The DFA undersecretary said APEC member countries must be keen in getting the youth to take part in agriculture or agricultural research that can help address the rising demand for food security in the region.

Del Rosario cited the role of the Filipino youth, particularly those participating in scientific research conducted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to benefit the agriculture sector.

One of the other concerns discussed during the APEC Second Senior Officials Meeting was the role of innovation and regulation in the agricultural sector.

“Adding value in the food supply chain is made possible through increased raw product value while minimizing food waste,” said Dr. Ian Ferguson, Departmental Science Advisor of the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries.

Ferguson, however, particularly pointed out that innovation is commonly in conflict with regulation with the latter failing to keep up with the introduction of modern agricultural techniques.

Aside from food sustainability, the APEC Second Senior  Officials Meeting held on Boracay Island also highlighted the vital role of modern and efficient supply chain for businesses that seek access to regional and global markets.

APEC Family Photo

Delegates of the Second Senior Officials’ Meeting pose for their official family photo at the Jetty Port of Banyugan Beach in Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa after the Opening Session of the SOM2.

Another investor behind harassment of Ariel’s Point?

Another investor is said to be behind the closure order of a cliff diving site here.
Ariel’s Point owner Ariel Abriam said Buruanga mayor Quezon Labindao himself bared during one of the meetings on the permanent closure order of the diving site that the planned investment of an Oceanpark is behind the mayor’s motivation to order the closure.
“A hearing called by the municipal government on Ariel’s Point Resort’s alleged violations, Labindao mentioned his desire to have the property acquired by Oceanpark, which already has a facility nearby. He [Labindao’ explained that it would be more beneficial to the Municipality of Buruanga if the property is sold to Oceanpark as it is a bigger investor,” said Abriam, who formerly headed the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay.
To counteract the closure order, Abriam, through his counsel MarienneI Badlit, petitioned the Kalibo regional trial court for a certiorari prohibition and mandamus with urgent appeal for temporary restraining order (TRO), and/or writ of preliminary prohibition/mandatory injunction.
Abriam also asked the court to issue a 72-hour ex-parte TRO; upon summary hearing, and extend the TRO for another 20 days, and subsequently stop permanently the implementation of the mayor’s closure order. Furthermore, he asked the court to order Labindao and his fellow respondents to pay P4.7 million in indemnity, damages and litigation fees.
Oceanpark could not be reached for comment as of press time.

Biz group to showcase grand Flores de Mayo

The Boracay Foundation Incorporated (BFI) will showcase the third Grand Boracay Flores de Mayo here on May 23.
Raffy Cooper, BFI marketing officer, said the festival will be participated in by different resorts here.
The participants will parade at the front beach, anticipating that it will be witnessed by the delegates attending the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). Boracay is the venue of the Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting on May 23-24.
Featuring one of the most beloved traditions, the Santacruzan, the event will highlight the island’s most beautiful young ladies and their consorts in a flower-decked procession. The participants will wear traditional Filipino costumes in commemoration of the finding of the Holy Cross by Reyna Elena, Cooper said.
Cooper also said the Flores de Mayo parade in Boracay is different from all other similar traditions in the country since it will be held at the front beach.
The program starts after the 5 p.m. mass to be held at the Balabag Holy Rosary Parish. A colorful parade will then commence from Station 1 to Station 2 here./

Chinese couple saved from drowning

A newly wed Chinese couple were saved from drowning by the personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard here Sunday noon.

Lt. Commander Jimmy Oliver Vingno, PCG-Caticlan chief, identified the couple as Yuan Qiang Wu, 27, and his wife Chun Lan Li, 29, of Canton province, China.

They were rescued by PO3 Mark Anthony Sumanoy, 29, of San Fernando, Romblon and SN2 Dan Arvin Goboy, 28, of Laua-an, Antique. Local vendor Romel Alonsagay, 33, also assisted in the rescue.

"I will recommend that they will be given due recognition from the higher ups," said Vingno.

"The two were having fun together at Puka Beach when strong waves overcame them. Fortunately, our PCG personnel were at the area and they immediately came to the rescue.

Both Sumanoy and Goboy had already saved several victims of drowning incidents in this resort island in the past three years.

Wu, in an interview, said that they only got married in China on May 6 and decided to go to Boracay for their honeymoon.

During the drowning, Wu held Li's body above the surface of the water and pushed her to the nearest beach. It was another tourist who was also swimming who shouted for help and called the attention of the coast guard.

They were then transferred to a private medical clinic here for examination.

"I consider the PCG personnel as our angels. In China, we consider it as a fortunate sign when lives had been saved," said Wu in an interview Monday.

Disaster managers gear up for typhoon

Aklan Gov. Florencio Miraflores instructed provincial disaster managers and volunteers to be prepared ahead for typhoon “Dodong.”
In an interview, Miraflores said that although Aklan is not in the typhoon’s track, it is important to be prepared as the province plays hosts to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings from May 10- 24.
“It is better to be prepared ahead of time. We have also communicated to 17 different municipal disaster managers to be ready and prepared,” said Miraflores.
It was learned that the Office of the Civil Defense is also preparing similar preparations ahead of the typhoon.
APEC delegates will convene here on May 10-21 for the Second Senior Officials Meeting (SOM2) and Related Meetings and May 23-24 for Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting.
Around 2, 000 delegates are expected to come over.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, typhoon “Dodong” has intensified its strength as it continues to move in the general direction of Eastern Luzon.
Public storm signal number one was declared in Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon and Polillo Island and Northern Samar.

Number of hornbills in Panay growing

Conservationists in Panay Island are optimistic about the growing number of hornbills that are considered critically endangered.
“We estimate that there are now 3,000 individual species of hornbills in Panay,” said Christian Schwartz, a German national and currently the project manager of the Philippine Conservation Incorporated (Philincon).
The present number is a significant increase in the number of hornbills in Panay, which was only around 1,000 several years ago, he said.
Panay Island, composed of the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz and Iloilo, has two species of hornbills: the Visayas Tarictic Hornbill and the Writhed-billed Hornbill.
The province of Antique, by virtue of a Sanguniang Panlalawigan resolution passed several years ago, considers the hornbill as its provincial bird.
“We continuously received reports that there are private resorts in Iloilo and in other areas including Boracay that harbor a captive hornbill disguised as a tourism lure. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources does not give permits to anyone to take care of a hornbill even in private capacity since it is considered as critically endangered. Several European businessmen in Panay also do this,” said Schwartz.
The Philincon was accredited by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to just treat or rescue hornbills in captivity on condition that these will be released in the wild the soonest possible time.
In 2000, the Panay hornbills have been considered as the most endangered in the world until the late discovery of the Sulu hornbill in Mindanao.
Philincon is focused on the conservation of hornbills including other endangered species based in Pandan, Antique./

Boracay in maximum alert ahead of APEC Summit

Various government enforcement agencies have deployed their respective elite personnel as Boracay will play host to several high-profile meetings from May 9-24 of the Asia Pacific Economic Conference (APEC).

Among government agencies that deployed personnel were the Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Land Transportation Office, Bureau of Fire Protection, Metro Manila Development Authority, and Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Police Senior Inspector Frensy Andrade, Boracay police chief, said that everything has already been in place and all government agencies are now ready.

Because of the red alert status, tourists bound for this resort island during the entire two weeks period of the APEC Summit may feel inconvenience because of the maximum securities.

Sources at the police said that boat transfer for public maybe temporarily halted from time to time due to the anticipated arrival of APEC participants.

The series of APEC meetings include topics concerning tourism, environment, marine and coastal protection.

At least three hotel venues have been identified for the APEC meet namely: the Shangri-la Hotel, Crown Regency Hotel and Convention Center, and the Paradise Garden Resort.

Indonesia commits to sisterhood with Boracay

The province of Bali, Indonesia has affirmed its commitment to push for the sisterhood agreement with this resort island.
R. Toto Waspodo, minister counselor and first secretary of social and cultural affairs of the Indonesian embassy to the Philippines, was here yesterday as guest of honor in Aklan’s 59th anniversary.
The proposal for a sisterhood agreement started sometime in 2013.
“Both the provinces of Bali and Boracay have similar interests in the proposed sisterhood agreement. The government of Indonesia is seriously considering the proposal for the development of trade and tourism,” said Waspodo in his speech.
Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores, in an interview said, the Indonesian government is cautious amidst the possible execution of Filipina maid Mary Jane Veloso in Indonesia.
Veloso has been sentenced to death after she was convicted for allegedly bringing in illegal drugs in Indonesia./

ASEAN ECONOMIC INTEGRATION NOW BEING FELT

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) believes that the province of Aklan is now feeling the effect of the Association of South East Asian Nation (ASEAN) Economic Integration.

Diosdado Cadena, DTI provincial director, said that the ASEAN Economic Integration can already be felt in the locally made products, handicrafts and agricultural products made by the local entrepreneurs.

The DTI has spearheaded the opening of the week long trade fair and Pina Fiber Festival for the occasion of Aklan 59th year anniversary.

“We are targeting Php5 million in sales of world class products and designs now available at the trade fair,” said Cadena.

The DTI believes that because of the growing tourism industry in Boracay, Aklanon entrepreneurs are conscious of the global market potential.

“Even our students feel the influence of ASEAN Integration. Many of them are choosing careers which have huge potentials for work abroad,” said Cadena.

BORACAY RESORT “TOO HIGH”

A resort at Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan is now in hot water for exceeding the height limit on buildings in the world famous resort town. Boracay Island Administrator Glen Sacapano said the Linds Boracay violated Malay’s Municipal Ordinance No. 328 when it constructed a seven-storey building. The local building code only allows a three-storey buildings on the island. The Boracay Redevelopment Task Force and the management of Linds Boracay are currently assessing the situation and trying to work out a solution.

Red-carpet welcome for APEC delegates

 A red-carpet welcome is being prepared for delegates in the Asia-Pacific Economic Coooperatio Summit in this island resort next month.
Delegates arriving at the Kalibo International Airport in Kalibo, Aklan will pass by the newly constructed Tangalan-Ibajay road where there is less traffic.
“Delegates will be treated to fresh sceneries along the diversion road, which features pine trees and a beach along the highway,” said Rep. Teodorico Haresco Jr.
Upon reaching Boracay, the delegates will be taken by service vehicles.
The island, one of the best beach destinations in the world, will host the Second Senior Officials and Ministers Responsible on Trade.
“We expect (Aklan) province to earn around P1 billion from food, services, transport and other related expenses during the event,” said Haresco.
Various law enforcement agencies have laid out measures to secure one of the biggest gatherings of economic ministers in Asia-Pacific, the congressman said.
The local police earlier said they will deploy 3,000 uniformed personnel.

Despite opposition, proposed Boracay casino may soon get the nod

There is a big chance, despite strong opposition, that a casino may soon open in world-famous beach destination, Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan.

“The proposed casino may operate soon.  The proposal of a resort has been approved on second reading,” said Malay Town Councilor Rowen Aguirre in a text message.

With the approval, Aguirre said Boracay New Coast will soon get an endorsement from the Malay Town Council for its proposed casino operation.

Owned by Manila–based major property developer Megaworld, which has bought Fil-Estate’s Fairways and Bluewater resort in the northern tip of Boracay Boracay, Boracay New Coast  New Coast is reported to have proposed opening its proposed casino only to its own resort guests as well as visiting expatriates on the island.

Boracay New Coast is also reportedly securing a license to open its proposed casino in Boracay from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor).

For years and years, many proponents have tried, in vain, to put up a casino on Boracay Island. However, such moves have successfully been opposed by both the Church and local business here.

Specifically, Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church Parish and Boracay Foundation Inc. (BFI) have strongly been against the opening of a casino or any organized gambling operation, for that matter, in Boracay.

However, observers here fear that this time, not even the Church and other anti-casino and organized gambling sectors in Boracay, will have a chance to hold back big money and the power of such influential property developers like Megaworld and their desire to finally introduce organized gambling on the island.

BIR targets tax-evading Boracay businesses

Government tax collectors are running after tax-evading businesses, including tourist service operators, in this island resort.
Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Aklan revenue district officer Eralen De Aro said they have received numerous complaints about businesses without BIR registration.
“We recently held a mapping in Boracay and we have validated the complaint,” said De Aro. “We will run after these tax evaders.”
Several resorts here are not paying the right taxes either, the bureau noted.
“We have been giving them chances to [pay their dues]. If they will not [pay], we will order their establishments closed,” De Aro stressed.
BIR-Aklan aims to collect P1.5 billion in taxes this year.

Church, biz group still vs casino

 There is no changing their minds.
The Catholic Church and a business group have expressed continued opposition to casino operations in this island resort.
Father Arnaldo Crisostomo said they received reports that a large business corporation here has revived its proposal to build a casino.
The corporation reportedly wants to operate a casino exclusively for its guests. Its proposal is pending at the Sanguniang Bayan of Malay.
“We continue to be vigilant and oppose casino operations in Boracay,” said Crisostomo.
For his part, Boracay Foundation, Inc. president Dionisio Salme stressed that they have been against any casino operation here./

Western Visayas fastest economic hub- DOE

BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan, April 14 (PNA)-- The Western Visayas region in Central Philippines is considered a fast growing economy, according to the Department of Energy (DOE).

This was bared by Engr. Wilfred Billena, president of the Panay-Guimaras Power Supply Consortium (PPSC) Saturday during the 25-year Electric Power Purchase Agreement (EPPA) signing. The signing of EPPA was meant to respond to the projected power demand in the next two to five years.

PPSC is an alliance of electric cooperatives in the Panay-Guimaras area for the purpose of negotiating more competitive prices through aggregation of power requirements.

"The DOE report still needs confirmation from the National Economic Development Authority (EDA). But we are confident of this reality," Billena said.

Major business developers in the country, many of whom were Chinese companies, are putting up their investments on tourism related businesses and business power outsourcing,

New tourism related business companies investing in the region includes Megaworld Corporation, Ayala Land, Double Dragon Properties, Gaisano Business Centers, among others.

Famous cliff-diving site defies closure order

A popular cliff-diving site in Buruanga, Aklan has defied a local government’s order for its permanent closure.
The Ariel’s Point management barred local government personnel tasked to enforce the order from entering the site on Thursday.
“We believe we have the legal right to prevent them from enforcing the order. The [order] was mere harassment,” said Ruby Luces, the diving site manager.
Buruanga mayor Quezon Labindao, who spearheaded the serving of the closure order, was also barred from entering the site.
Reporters were informed about the situation when tension between the site management and the order’s enforcers rose.
The enforcing team, comprising personnel from Bantay Dagat, Philippine National Police and Philippine Coast Guard, withdrew when reporters arrived.
About 68 guests — Malaysians, Singaporeans and other tourists — were present at the time.
The police confiscated one of Ariel’s Points tourist service boats for alleged violations.
But Luces refuted the police’s claim that the boat did not have a permit, insisting that they have acquired a permit from the Maritime Industry Authority.
The boat was later released without any penalty upon the Coast Guard’s advise.
“The police know that only the [Coast Guard] can confiscate our boats,” Luces stressed, “and the [Coast Guard] knows we have legitimate papers.”
Ariel’s Point continues to receive tourists as of press time./

Boracay resort filing libel rap vs Ted Failon

Boracay West Cove will file a libel charge against television news anchor Ted Failon, who has been critical of the resort’s operation.
“[Boracay] West Cove owner Crisostomo Aquino has instructed us to file the charge,” Manila-based counsel Dan Roxas said in a telephone interview.
Roxas revealed that the resort management was also studying a possible ethics complaint against the ABS-CBN prime-time news anchor.
Failon, the lawyer said, was seen using the sea ambulance owned by the local government here for his news coverage.
“There was no available sea ambulance in Boracay for a day recently because Failon used it,” Roxas said.
This reporter was still trying to reach Failon for comment as of press time.
The Court of Appeals upheld the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) cancellation of Boracay West Cove’s privilege to obtain a Forest Land Use Agreement for Tourism because the land where the resort was built was a forest reserve and a prohibited domain of the government.
It dismissed the resort’s motion for reconsideration for lack of merit.
“It’s an old issue,” Roxas said of the decision. “We still have a pending case with the Supreme Court and the Office of the DENR secretary. We await the final order.”

PCG-Caticlan attains zero sea incident goal during Holy Week

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-Caticlan attained a zero sea incident goal in this resort island during the Holy Week.

Lt. Commander Jimmy Oliver Vingno of the PCG-Caticlan said they had implemented the necessary measures to ensure that both foreign and local tourists enjoyed their stay in Boracay.

"We wanted to thank the help of the local media who has actively participated in the call among tourists to be vigilant," Vingo said.

Among the security measures undertaken by the PCG-Caticlan include the deployment of security personnel in strategic areas in Boracay, and conducting operation against colorum boats, among others.

The Philippine National Police had also reported that the Holy Week observance in Boracay was peaceful.

The generally peaceful scenario in Boracay during Holy Week is important since Boracay will host the APEC conference this summer.

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