The end does not justify the means
Posted on | Tuesday 10 May 2011 | No Comments
By BENJIE OLIVEROS
Analysis
Bulatlat.com
The US has finally caught up with Osama Bin Laden, its number one enemy and its former ally. It could be remembered that the US helped build up, arm and strengthen Osama’s forces during the Afghan people’s war against Russian occupation, but later became its number one enemy. In other words, the US helped create al-Queda, which became its worst enemy afterwards.
What Osama Bin Laden was accused of masterminding, the 9-11 attacks that killed around 3,000 people, is reprehensible and could not be justified no matter what his reasons were for doing it. But what the US did in retaliation, last Sunday night, and the message it has been sending afterwards also raise a lot of questions.
First, it was obviously a kill mission. It was only after the Obama administration was criticized for ordering a kill mission did it say that it was a kill or capture mission. But the US also admitted that Osama Bin Laden was unarmed when shot at and killed by US Navy SEALS forces.
Worse, it was revealed that only one from among the five killed in the raid was armed and fired a shot. The question is, was Osama Bin Laden tried in absentia before the raid and meted out the death penalty? If not, what is the justification for killing him, and his companions for that matter, when he was unarmed? The raid was indeed a better option than bombing the compound. However, what stopped the Obama administration from choosing the latter option was not the potential “collateral damage” that the bombing would cause but its fear that Osama Bin Laden’s body might not be found and his death could not be confirmed.
In the final analysis, what the US did is not surprising. It has been bombing and firing missiles at the homes and vehicles of its perceived enemies with impunity. It even recently bombed the house of Muammar Ghadaffi, killing his son. These killings and bombings are merely different forms of political assassination and extrajudicial killing.
Second, the US government and its Armed Forces have been saying that much of the information it got regarding Osama Bin Laden’s trusted courier who, in turn, led the CIA to his house cum hiding place was obtained through the use of ‘harsher” interrogation methods – a euphemism for torture – such as water boarding and other “enhanced” methods. Water boarding is locally called water cure: continuously pouring water onto the face over the breathing passages of a prisoner causing him or her to feel the sensation of drowning. When the prisoner passes out, he or she is hit at the bloated stomach. It is a brutal form of torture. What is alarming is that a debate over the need for “enhanced interrogation techniques” has again reemerged from among US policy makers.
Of course, these acts are consistent with the thinking of the US Armed Forces – as contained in its counter-terror, counter-insurgency manuals – that a terrorist or insurgent forfeits his or her life once he or she gets involved in terrorism or in an insurgency, But this thinking has no place in a civilized world.
Political assassinations and extrajudicial killings, and torture could never be justified no matter what the objective is. If it is justifiable in this case, then we might as well throw international conventions on human rights and humanitarian law out the window.
Third, what the US did – conducting a military operation in Pakistan without informing the Pakistani government – is clearly a violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty. If this act would not be condemned what then would prevent the US from doing it in other countries as well? If it is justifiable in this case, we might as well forget about the concept of a nation’s sovereignty.
The means employed by the US could not be justified by its objective of achieving justice for those killed in the 9-11 attacks nor by its aim of putting a stop to terrorism. On the contrary, it merely committed another injustice without ensuring that acts of terror would stop. It is a folly to think that terrorism would stop by decapitating it. It might even spawn more acts of terror. After all, these acts of terror were committed not because it was ordered by one man, no matter how influential or persuasive he might be. The reason for al-Queda’s continued existence, despite the efforts of the strongest armed forces in the world, lies in conditions of poverty and oppression. But of course, the end does not justify the means for both al-Queda and the US. Reposted by Cordillera News Portal.
Analysis
Bulatlat.com
The US has finally caught up with Osama Bin Laden, its number one enemy and its former ally. It could be remembered that the US helped build up, arm and strengthen Osama’s forces during the Afghan people’s war against Russian occupation, but later became its number one enemy. In other words, the US helped create al-Queda, which became its worst enemy afterwards.
What Osama Bin Laden was accused of masterminding, the 9-11 attacks that killed around 3,000 people, is reprehensible and could not be justified no matter what his reasons were for doing it. But what the US did in retaliation, last Sunday night, and the message it has been sending afterwards also raise a lot of questions.
First, it was obviously a kill mission. It was only after the Obama administration was criticized for ordering a kill mission did it say that it was a kill or capture mission. But the US also admitted that Osama Bin Laden was unarmed when shot at and killed by US Navy SEALS forces.
Worse, it was revealed that only one from among the five killed in the raid was armed and fired a shot. The question is, was Osama Bin Laden tried in absentia before the raid and meted out the death penalty? If not, what is the justification for killing him, and his companions for that matter, when he was unarmed? The raid was indeed a better option than bombing the compound. However, what stopped the Obama administration from choosing the latter option was not the potential “collateral damage” that the bombing would cause but its fear that Osama Bin Laden’s body might not be found and his death could not be confirmed.
In the final analysis, what the US did is not surprising. It has been bombing and firing missiles at the homes and vehicles of its perceived enemies with impunity. It even recently bombed the house of Muammar Ghadaffi, killing his son. These killings and bombings are merely different forms of political assassination and extrajudicial killing.
Second, the US government and its Armed Forces have been saying that much of the information it got regarding Osama Bin Laden’s trusted courier who, in turn, led the CIA to his house cum hiding place was obtained through the use of ‘harsher” interrogation methods – a euphemism for torture – such as water boarding and other “enhanced” methods. Water boarding is locally called water cure: continuously pouring water onto the face over the breathing passages of a prisoner causing him or her to feel the sensation of drowning. When the prisoner passes out, he or she is hit at the bloated stomach. It is a brutal form of torture. What is alarming is that a debate over the need for “enhanced interrogation techniques” has again reemerged from among US policy makers.
Of course, these acts are consistent with the thinking of the US Armed Forces – as contained in its counter-terror, counter-insurgency manuals – that a terrorist or insurgent forfeits his or her life once he or she gets involved in terrorism or in an insurgency, But this thinking has no place in a civilized world.
Political assassinations and extrajudicial killings, and torture could never be justified no matter what the objective is. If it is justifiable in this case, then we might as well throw international conventions on human rights and humanitarian law out the window.
Third, what the US did – conducting a military operation in Pakistan without informing the Pakistani government – is clearly a violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty. If this act would not be condemned what then would prevent the US from doing it in other countries as well? If it is justifiable in this case, we might as well forget about the concept of a nation’s sovereignty.
The means employed by the US could not be justified by its objective of achieving justice for those killed in the 9-11 attacks nor by its aim of putting a stop to terrorism. On the contrary, it merely committed another injustice without ensuring that acts of terror would stop. It is a folly to think that terrorism would stop by decapitating it. It might even spawn more acts of terror. After all, these acts of terror were committed not because it was ordered by one man, no matter how influential or persuasive he might be. The reason for al-Queda’s continued existence, despite the efforts of the strongest armed forces in the world, lies in conditions of poverty and oppression. But of course, the end does not justify the means for both al-Queda and the US. Reposted by Cordillera News Portal.
Category:
opinion
Autonomy depends on how united the Cordillerans are for regional development - Coloma
by Lito Dar
Presidential Communication Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Sonny Coloma said that President Benigno Aquino III believes in a democratic process and the attainment of regional autonomy will depend on how united the people of Cordillera are and on how well they will lay down the framework of autonomy in line with the region’s vision of progress and development.
“I think we would like to see all the stakeholders in the Cordillera sit down and discuss among themselves and reach a common ground or consensus that would really promote the principle of autonomy and see it realize in your own region,” Coloma said during a presscon Friday.
According to Coloma, the issue of autonomy rests on the shoulders of the real stakeholders in Cordillera, who are the rightful beneficiaries of its wealth and natural resources. He noted that the region is blessed with abundant human talent and capital that can be harnessed for such purpose.
Coloma also advised that Cordillerans should learn from the lessons (experiences) in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and put up a draft law or framework that would be practical, responsive, and relevant to the development needs of the region.
He also called on the members of the press to also contribute their share in promoting a constructive dialogue so that there would be a broad base consensus among the stakeholders and help in the realization of the aspiration of the people in Cordillera for faster progress in the region through autonomy.
Meanwhile, the Regional Development Council’s Third Autonomy Act Drafting Committee (TAADC) chaired by Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan is now working double time in the drafting of an autonomy law which they aim to present for a plenary discussion by May 15 and to have a final draft presented for consultations with the Cordillera congressmen and governors by the end of May. (JDP/LD-PIA CAR)
Presidential Communication Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Sonny Coloma said that President Benigno Aquino III believes in a democratic process and the attainment of regional autonomy will depend on how united the people of Cordillera are and on how well they will lay down the framework of autonomy in line with the region’s vision of progress and development.
“I think we would like to see all the stakeholders in the Cordillera sit down and discuss among themselves and reach a common ground or consensus that would really promote the principle of autonomy and see it realize in your own region,” Coloma said during a presscon Friday.
According to Coloma, the issue of autonomy rests on the shoulders of the real stakeholders in Cordillera, who are the rightful beneficiaries of its wealth and natural resources. He noted that the region is blessed with abundant human talent and capital that can be harnessed for such purpose.
Coloma also advised that Cordillerans should learn from the lessons (experiences) in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and put up a draft law or framework that would be practical, responsive, and relevant to the development needs of the region.
He also called on the members of the press to also contribute their share in promoting a constructive dialogue so that there would be a broad base consensus among the stakeholders and help in the realization of the aspiration of the people in Cordillera for faster progress in the region through autonomy.
Meanwhile, the Regional Development Council’s Third Autonomy Act Drafting Committee (TAADC) chaired by Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan is now working double time in the drafting of an autonomy law which they aim to present for a plenary discussion by May 15 and to have a final draft presented for consultations with the Cordillera congressmen and governors by the end of May. (JDP/LD-PIA CAR)
Category:
Baguio City
Young Ifugao rebel surrenders
by Vency D. Bulayungan
ASIPULO, Ifugao-Tired of a grueling life in the underground movement, a young rebel recently surrendered to authorities here.
Mayor Eladio Bang-ud of this town said that the 20-year-old elementary graduate was accompanied by his uncle when he surrendered. He narrated that in his young age, he was easily recruited by the members of the New Peoples Army (NPA) since their ideology looked good. However, after experiencing hardships in staying in remote places and running from government forces, he opted to go back to the fold of the law.
Bang-ud further disclosed that another reason why he surrendered is that one of his siblings just finished his training course in the Philippine Army. “His brother was instrumental in convincing him to surrender,” the mayor said.
Bang-ud said the local officials are trying their best to convince a number of the residents who have joined the underground movement to follow suit in going mainstream.
The mayor said the local government unit will conduct a free medical mission and an information/education campaign regarding the terrorist movements in Cawayan, Camandag, and Namal. An encounter between soldiers and the NPA had just occurred in February in the favorite dwelling place of the NPAs. (VDB/PIA CAR-Ifugao)
ASIPULO, Ifugao-Tired of a grueling life in the underground movement, a young rebel recently surrendered to authorities here.
Mayor Eladio Bang-ud of this town said that the 20-year-old elementary graduate was accompanied by his uncle when he surrendered. He narrated that in his young age, he was easily recruited by the members of the New Peoples Army (NPA) since their ideology looked good. However, after experiencing hardships in staying in remote places and running from government forces, he opted to go back to the fold of the law.
Bang-ud further disclosed that another reason why he surrendered is that one of his siblings just finished his training course in the Philippine Army. “His brother was instrumental in convincing him to surrender,” the mayor said.
Bang-ud said the local officials are trying their best to convince a number of the residents who have joined the underground movement to follow suit in going mainstream.
The mayor said the local government unit will conduct a free medical mission and an information/education campaign regarding the terrorist movements in Cawayan, Camandag, and Namal. An encounter between soldiers and the NPA had just occurred in February in the favorite dwelling place of the NPAs. (VDB/PIA CAR-Ifugao)
Category:
Ifugao
Abra High School opens annex to decongest the main campus
by Maritess B.Beñas
BANGUED, Abra,- Another extension of the Abra High School, the province’s primary national high school, will be opened this school year in order to decongest the main campus in located within the Bangued town proper
Provincial Governor Eustaquio P. Bersamin reported that repairs and expansion of facilities are now underway in the Calot Elementary School to accommodate the students who are interested to go to Brgy. Calot, Bangued for their secondary education.
The Abra High School (AHS) had earlier established its first extension in Brgy. Mudeng, La Paz. The establishment of the extension in La Paz was then inspired by the great number of students coming from La Paz and its neighboring towns and barangays of Bangued located across the Abra River which had become isolated during the rainy season.
As of the last school year, AHS Main Campus in Bangued had more than 2,400 students while the Mudeng Campus had more than 500 students.
With the increasing number of prospective enrollees in the main campus, given the limited number of classrooms and area for possible expansion, the AHS is constrained to establish additional extension. Brgy. Calot was specifically identified as a conspicuous place as it would cater to the needs of the people in the southern part of Bangued which are very far from the main campus.
Meanwhile, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent concurrent Principal of the AHS, Mr. Francis Cesar Bringas, clarified queries from the public regarding the schedule of enrolment in the AHS. He said old students are already considered enrolled though they still need to confirm their enrolment for this coming school year.
Incoming first year students, on the other hand, will start their enrolment on May 23 until the opening of classes in June. The students should be accompanied by their parents to be able to participate in the Brigada Eskwela which is the clean-up activities in the public schools.
Bringas further explained that even if the incoming first year students have earlier registered last January, 2011, they still need to confirm their enrolment. (JDP/MTBB-PIA CAR,Abra)
BANGUED, Abra,- Another extension of the Abra High School, the province’s primary national high school, will be opened this school year in order to decongest the main campus in located within the Bangued town proper
Provincial Governor Eustaquio P. Bersamin reported that repairs and expansion of facilities are now underway in the Calot Elementary School to accommodate the students who are interested to go to Brgy. Calot, Bangued for their secondary education.
The Abra High School (AHS) had earlier established its first extension in Brgy. Mudeng, La Paz. The establishment of the extension in La Paz was then inspired by the great number of students coming from La Paz and its neighboring towns and barangays of Bangued located across the Abra River which had become isolated during the rainy season.
As of the last school year, AHS Main Campus in Bangued had more than 2,400 students while the Mudeng Campus had more than 500 students.
With the increasing number of prospective enrollees in the main campus, given the limited number of classrooms and area for possible expansion, the AHS is constrained to establish additional extension. Brgy. Calot was specifically identified as a conspicuous place as it would cater to the needs of the people in the southern part of Bangued which are very far from the main campus.
Meanwhile, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent concurrent Principal of the AHS, Mr. Francis Cesar Bringas, clarified queries from the public regarding the schedule of enrolment in the AHS. He said old students are already considered enrolled though they still need to confirm their enrolment for this coming school year.
Incoming first year students, on the other hand, will start their enrolment on May 23 until the opening of classes in June. The students should be accompanied by their parents to be able to participate in the Brigada Eskwela which is the clean-up activities in the public schools.
Bringas further explained that even if the incoming first year students have earlier registered last January, 2011, they still need to confirm their enrolment. (JDP/MTBB-PIA CAR,Abra)
Category:
Abra
Anti narcotic agents train on GPS
Around 35 operating personnel of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) are being trained on Global Positioning System(GPS)to enhance their competency in carrying out marijuana eradication operations through the proper mapping out of coordinates significantly lessening travel time of operating units and in landing troops to areas nearest to target-sites.
The training is conducted by the Geodetic Engineers of the Philippines, Incorporated (GEPI). Jo Raymund O. Fernandez, a Baguio boy and a fifth placer in the 1999 Geodetic Engineering board exam, orients participants of GPS units, the system and software being used, and map source. Fernandez also offered additional GPS receivers during the activity for training purposes.
The training includes practical exercises and tutoring on how to maximize the use of Google Earth. Aside from easing both navigation in the mountains and provision of data for pattern of marijuana cultivations, there are many benefits in GPS-guided anti-dangerous-drug operations.
One is obtaining data for map-making, particularly foot trails of unusual plantation sites. It can also be very useful in times of medical emergency during eradication operation or when there are hostile forces in the area, where evacuation or search and rescue maneuver is immediate. According to PDEA, the latest massive marijuana eradication in the tri-boundaries of Benguet, Ilocos Sur, and La Union had been efficiently carried out through the proper mapping out of coordinates. Primarily, travel time of operating units was significantly lessened wherein choppers were used and pilots were able to insert the troops to landing areas nearest to target-sites resulting in the eradication of more marijuana plantations.
Aliver E. Mangonon, GEPI CAR chapter president and other key officers were present during the training, showing strong support to its newfound shared venture with PDEA – CAR, for the sooner clearing of Cordillera communities from marijuana affectation. (PDEA CAR/PIA CAR)
Category:
Baguio City
Tam awan Village hosts 2nd International Arts
by Redjie Cawis
The popular Tam-awan Village is set for the 2nd International Arts Festival slated on May 13 – 15, bringing the arts closer to this highland region.
The Tam–awan International Arts Festival(TIAF) is themed “Weaving through the arts.” The TIAF aims to present the seven mediums of art like the weaves of the region as they will come together and create one tapestry of art. Activities lined up for the three-day festival include workshops, seminars, and exhibits on the arts.
The art of weaving is endemic to the Cordilleras with each province having its own weaving style, fabric, colors, pattern, and design. These will be showcased in presentations by the Bontoc, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Benguet group of dancers who will be seen in the duration of the TIAF with Weaving, Carving and Solar painting demonstrations and graffiti art exhibitions.
Set to give talks are National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) executive chairman Malou Jacob on the Preservation of our Culture and Arts – our Heritage; Ike Picpican to share on the Overview of Cordilleran Dance and Music; Toti Cerda to speak on Visual Arts; Manny Montelibano on Multimedia Installation Arts; Dennis Ascalon on Black Artists in Asia and Bacolod Arts; and Mico Manalo on Eskwela Taller Intramuros and Art Conservation.
A demo and workshop on Kalinga Musical Instruments is set to be given by Ani Bungaoen with Benny Sokong.
The TIAF’s is an offering of Chanum Foundation, and backed by NCAA and the city government of Baguio.
Chanum Foundation has started a tradition of culture in its first jab in staging an international festival in 2010 bringing together a array of artists, enthusiasts, and lovers of culture in the city of Pines dubbed as a ‘melting pot of the Arts.’ (JDP/RC-PIA CAR)
The popular Tam-awan Village is set for the 2nd International Arts Festival slated on May 13 – 15, bringing the arts closer to this highland region.
The Tam–awan International Arts Festival(TIAF) is themed “Weaving through the arts.” The TIAF aims to present the seven mediums of art like the weaves of the region as they will come together and create one tapestry of art. Activities lined up for the three-day festival include workshops, seminars, and exhibits on the arts.
The art of weaving is endemic to the Cordilleras with each province having its own weaving style, fabric, colors, pattern, and design. These will be showcased in presentations by the Bontoc, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Benguet group of dancers who will be seen in the duration of the TIAF with Weaving, Carving and Solar painting demonstrations and graffiti art exhibitions.
Set to give talks are National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) executive chairman Malou Jacob on the Preservation of our Culture and Arts – our Heritage; Ike Picpican to share on the Overview of Cordilleran Dance and Music; Toti Cerda to speak on Visual Arts; Manny Montelibano on Multimedia Installation Arts; Dennis Ascalon on Black Artists in Asia and Bacolod Arts; and Mico Manalo on Eskwela Taller Intramuros and Art Conservation.
A demo and workshop on Kalinga Musical Instruments is set to be given by Ani Bungaoen with Benny Sokong.
The TIAF’s is an offering of Chanum Foundation, and backed by NCAA and the city government of Baguio.
Chanum Foundation has started a tradition of culture in its first jab in staging an international festival in 2010 bringing together a array of artists, enthusiasts, and lovers of culture in the city of Pines dubbed as a ‘melting pot of the Arts.’ (JDP/RC-PIA CAR)
Category:
Baguio City
Metro-Manila surgeons up in Baguio for convention
Posted on | Sunday 8 May 2011 | No Comments
by Ramon Dacawi
Beauty lies not only in the eyes of the beholder; it lies in the hands of a surgeon.
Thus said mayor Mauricio Domogan in keynoting Thursday the mid-year convention of the Metro-Manila chapter of the International College of Surgeons (ICS) at the posh Baguio Country Club.
“I hope you add the RH (Reproductive Health) bill in your discussions on the theme ‘Health, Beauty and Longevity in Harmony with Nature’”, he suggested after a glance at the eye-popping topics of the two-day conference.
Even without the controversial measure now pending in Congress, there was enough fire in the topics lined up. On tap were “Female and Male Sexual Dysfunction”, “Penile Augmentation and Vaginal Tightening”, as well as “Invasive and Non-Invasive Body Sculpting” focusing on abdomino plasty (tummy tack), ultrasonic liposuction, radio frequency, and sclerotherapy.
It was “Diseases of the Prostate Gland” for males and “New Technique in Wound Closure” for surgeons, “Updates in the Initial Management of Trauma” for emergency medics and “Medico-Legal Pitfalls in the Practice of Medicine” for all in the profession.
“We are making sure that this forum will be educationally gratifying as we have meticulously crafted very interesting, hot and burning issues…,” assured convention chair, Dr. Francis Decangchon who introduced Domogan.
The theme, according to ICS Metro-Manila chapter president, Dr. Nicasio Salang, was “geared towards excellence in the practice of surgery, thus significantly improving the health and well-being of our people.”
Dr. Ernesto Acosta, ICS Philippine Section president, took the occasion to thank the membership for the team work in the Philippines’ hosting the 37th ICS World Congress that ICS president Christopher Chen noted was the most successful.
Tracing the founding of the Philippine section in 1948 through Dr. Gumersindo Garcia Sr., the medical director Mary Johnston hospital, Domogan noted “you have achieved unparalleled accomplishments” and “may you continue to fulfill a God-given task that has an impact to my life and those of other lives.”
ICS envisions “to improve the lives of patients through the development and education of our members and the advancement of the medical field”. Its missions are to “teach, research, communicate and lead”. Its goals are anchored on: explore new horizons; active participation; one world, one organizatio.”
After the doxology and the national anthem by the City Hall Choir, the surgeons renewed their vows through the ICS hymn, pledging anew to care for patients “regardless of nationality.”
To the beat of Cordillera gongs, the ICS officers and the mayor went ethnic before the convention topics began with “Power Dressing and Fashion Etiquettes” by designer Rene Salud and models Marina Benipayo and Patricia Betita.
The two-day convention opened just after BCC general manager Anthony de Leon signed with labor union president Ronald Rivera a collective bargaining agreement that ended a month of tension-filled negotiations. *(PIO Baguio City/PIA CAR
Beauty lies not only in the eyes of the beholder; it lies in the hands of a surgeon.
Thus said mayor Mauricio Domogan in keynoting Thursday the mid-year convention of the Metro-Manila chapter of the International College of Surgeons (ICS) at the posh Baguio Country Club.
“I hope you add the RH (Reproductive Health) bill in your discussions on the theme ‘Health, Beauty and Longevity in Harmony with Nature’”, he suggested after a glance at the eye-popping topics of the two-day conference.
Even without the controversial measure now pending in Congress, there was enough fire in the topics lined up. On tap were “Female and Male Sexual Dysfunction”, “Penile Augmentation and Vaginal Tightening”, as well as “Invasive and Non-Invasive Body Sculpting” focusing on abdomino plasty (tummy tack), ultrasonic liposuction, radio frequency, and sclerotherapy.
It was “Diseases of the Prostate Gland” for males and “New Technique in Wound Closure” for surgeons, “Updates in the Initial Management of Trauma” for emergency medics and “Medico-Legal Pitfalls in the Practice of Medicine” for all in the profession.
“We are making sure that this forum will be educationally gratifying as we have meticulously crafted very interesting, hot and burning issues…,” assured convention chair, Dr. Francis Decangchon who introduced Domogan.
The theme, according to ICS Metro-Manila chapter president, Dr. Nicasio Salang, was “geared towards excellence in the practice of surgery, thus significantly improving the health and well-being of our people.”
Dr. Ernesto Acosta, ICS Philippine Section president, took the occasion to thank the membership for the team work in the Philippines’ hosting the 37th ICS World Congress that ICS president Christopher Chen noted was the most successful.
Tracing the founding of the Philippine section in 1948 through Dr. Gumersindo Garcia Sr., the medical director Mary Johnston hospital, Domogan noted “you have achieved unparalleled accomplishments” and “may you continue to fulfill a God-given task that has an impact to my life and those of other lives.”
ICS envisions “to improve the lives of patients through the development and education of our members and the advancement of the medical field”. Its missions are to “teach, research, communicate and lead”. Its goals are anchored on: explore new horizons; active participation; one world, one organizatio.”
After the doxology and the national anthem by the City Hall Choir, the surgeons renewed their vows through the ICS hymn, pledging anew to care for patients “regardless of nationality.”
To the beat of Cordillera gongs, the ICS officers and the mayor went ethnic before the convention topics began with “Power Dressing and Fashion Etiquettes” by designer Rene Salud and models Marina Benipayo and Patricia Betita.
The two-day convention opened just after BCC general manager Anthony de Leon signed with labor union president Ronald Rivera a collective bargaining agreement that ended a month of tension-filled negotiations. *(PIO Baguio City/PIA CAR
Category:
Baguio City
Domogan goes to prison this Mother’s Day
by Ramon Dacawi
City mayor Mauricio Domogan will be in prison early this Sunday afternoon, to toast with the city jail inmates the day’s twin themes of motherhood and humanitarian volunteerism.
“We, too, would like to celebrate, being either mothers or, like others, children with mothers,” a resident of the female dormitory of the city jail said Friday as she was finalizing the program for the computer print-out.
The rest in the cells of double-deck beds were scribbling their thoughts while a male detainee waited, so he could organize them into poetry or essay to be read in this afternoon’s program with the mayor.
“We are also observing Red Cross and Red Crescent Day,” another male inmate said. “We have set aside from our livelihood programs a little something for the calamity victims in Japan.”
He couldn’t give a figure but said the support from inside might help give substance to the Red Cross and Crescent theme “Find the Volunteer Inside You”.
The inmates are no strangers to the humanitarian side of things. Years back, they pooled over a hundred pesos for the ailing son of a pony boy at Wright Park who was suffering from congenital heart ailment.
Two years back, they counted from a hat that passed through cells P721. They then divided the amount, half for a woman detainee afflicted with cancer and the other half for Trinalyn Mangisel, then a two-year old girl born with a hole in her heart.
(Trinalyn eventually underwent corrective surgery, thanks to Peter Ernst, a Swiss benefactor, Jim Ward, a Zen Buddhism practitioner, and then five-year old twins Aira and Rhea Acosta who scooped clean their coin collection amounting to P476.25.)
Last March, the prisoners, for the third straight year, joined the rest of the world in marking “Earth Hour”. Cities and towns all over were in darkness for an hour. The inmates had it for three hours as with the visiting bands Blugraz and Shakilan piercing the darkness of the courtyard with folk and country music
They were into preparations for “Earth Day” last April 22, only to reset it upon realizing the day falls on “Good Friday”. They wanted to lump it into this Sunday’s program but wardress, Sr. Inspector April Rose Ayangwa, said another occasion to focus on the environment would be better.
It will coincide with the launching this month of the sale of now one-year old pine seedlings that the inmates began producing last year with support from the city and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Jail warden, Chief Inspector Severino Khita, has asked groups planning to plant trees during the rainy season to order their seedlings from jail in support of its reformatory program.
This Sunday afternoon’s marking of Mother’s Day and volunteerism are part of prison reform, Khita noted.
For the inmates, the twin celebration may serve as a reminder that, like the rest in the world outside, they are not what they measly own. Or do not have.
In-between these observances, the prisoners are into sharpening their writing skills through an informal journalism class, as an antidote to boredom and for the release of thoughts and emotions confined by their confinement.
Among those who recently went to prison to help guide the writing course were multi-awarded Baguio poet Frank Cimatu and Sunstar columnist Nonnette Bennett.
Last week, Cimatu had the newly re-established PNP Cordillera Press Corps adopt as its project the enrichment of the jail library.
Soon, the Cinderellas, Baguio’s multi-awarded women’s football team, will follow suit, this time to introduce the indoor game of futsal. – (PIO Baguio City/PIA CAR)
City mayor Mauricio Domogan will be in prison early this Sunday afternoon, to toast with the city jail inmates the day’s twin themes of motherhood and humanitarian volunteerism.
“We, too, would like to celebrate, being either mothers or, like others, children with mothers,” a resident of the female dormitory of the city jail said Friday as she was finalizing the program for the computer print-out.
The rest in the cells of double-deck beds were scribbling their thoughts while a male detainee waited, so he could organize them into poetry or essay to be read in this afternoon’s program with the mayor.
“We are also observing Red Cross and Red Crescent Day,” another male inmate said. “We have set aside from our livelihood programs a little something for the calamity victims in Japan.”
He couldn’t give a figure but said the support from inside might help give substance to the Red Cross and Crescent theme “Find the Volunteer Inside You”.
The inmates are no strangers to the humanitarian side of things. Years back, they pooled over a hundred pesos for the ailing son of a pony boy at Wright Park who was suffering from congenital heart ailment.
Two years back, they counted from a hat that passed through cells P721. They then divided the amount, half for a woman detainee afflicted with cancer and the other half for Trinalyn Mangisel, then a two-year old girl born with a hole in her heart.
(Trinalyn eventually underwent corrective surgery, thanks to Peter Ernst, a Swiss benefactor, Jim Ward, a Zen Buddhism practitioner, and then five-year old twins Aira and Rhea Acosta who scooped clean their coin collection amounting to P476.25.)
Last March, the prisoners, for the third straight year, joined the rest of the world in marking “Earth Hour”. Cities and towns all over were in darkness for an hour. The inmates had it for three hours as with the visiting bands Blugraz and Shakilan piercing the darkness of the courtyard with folk and country music
They were into preparations for “Earth Day” last April 22, only to reset it upon realizing the day falls on “Good Friday”. They wanted to lump it into this Sunday’s program but wardress, Sr. Inspector April Rose Ayangwa, said another occasion to focus on the environment would be better.
It will coincide with the launching this month of the sale of now one-year old pine seedlings that the inmates began producing last year with support from the city and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Jail warden, Chief Inspector Severino Khita, has asked groups planning to plant trees during the rainy season to order their seedlings from jail in support of its reformatory program.
This Sunday afternoon’s marking of Mother’s Day and volunteerism are part of prison reform, Khita noted.
For the inmates, the twin celebration may serve as a reminder that, like the rest in the world outside, they are not what they measly own. Or do not have.
In-between these observances, the prisoners are into sharpening their writing skills through an informal journalism class, as an antidote to boredom and for the release of thoughts and emotions confined by their confinement.
Among those who recently went to prison to help guide the writing course were multi-awarded Baguio poet Frank Cimatu and Sunstar columnist Nonnette Bennett.
Last week, Cimatu had the newly re-established PNP Cordillera Press Corps adopt as its project the enrichment of the jail library.
Soon, the Cinderellas, Baguio’s multi-awarded women’s football team, will follow suit, this time to introduce the indoor game of futsal. – (PIO Baguio City/PIA CAR)
Category:
Baguio City
Council says no to salary hike for Beneco managers; yes to rank-and-file’s
by Aileen Refuerzo
The city council last Monday approved a resolution “strongly opposing” the proposed increase in the salary rates of department managers of the Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) from P55,000 to P100,000.
The body, however,in a separate move “strongly supported” the proposed hike in wages of the cooperative’s rank-and-file employees from grades 1 to 18 as contained in BENECO Board Resolution No. 75-2010.
The aldermen reached the decision after a lengthy deliberation with the department heads of the utility firm led by Human Resources manager Delmar Carino who maintained that the increase is reasonable in view of the rising cost of living triggered by upheavals affecting the oil industry and the country’s economy.
The BENECO heads also said that the 82 percent increase in their salaries will make their wages at par with those of other cooperatives.
Despite the justifications, the body rejected the proposed increase adopting the sentiment of Councilor Fred Bagbagen, who broached the opposition in a resolution, that the proposed increase is excessive.
Bagbagen said that the National Electrification Administration (NEA) pegged the salary grade of managers serving at electric cooperatives at grade 20 or equivalent to P35,000 monthly and the proposed increase is over and above the NEA limit.
It also noted that the National Association of Electric Consumers for Reform (NASECORE) also objected to the increase through Resolution No. 2011-04 dated March 4, 2011.
The body tasked Councilors Richard Carino, Erdolfo Balajadia and Bagbagen to come up with a toned down version of the latter’s resolution.
Apart from this, Bagbagen also proposed that the city oppose the increase of the BENECO directors’ countryside development fund from P200,000 to P500,000 and to require the power firm to submit an audited financial report to the city government. (PIO Baguio City/PIA –CAR)
The city council last Monday approved a resolution “strongly opposing” the proposed increase in the salary rates of department managers of the Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) from P55,000 to P100,000.
The body, however,in a separate move “strongly supported” the proposed hike in wages of the cooperative’s rank-and-file employees from grades 1 to 18 as contained in BENECO Board Resolution No. 75-2010.
The aldermen reached the decision after a lengthy deliberation with the department heads of the utility firm led by Human Resources manager Delmar Carino who maintained that the increase is reasonable in view of the rising cost of living triggered by upheavals affecting the oil industry and the country’s economy.
The BENECO heads also said that the 82 percent increase in their salaries will make their wages at par with those of other cooperatives.
Despite the justifications, the body rejected the proposed increase adopting the sentiment of Councilor Fred Bagbagen, who broached the opposition in a resolution, that the proposed increase is excessive.
Bagbagen said that the National Electrification Administration (NEA) pegged the salary grade of managers serving at electric cooperatives at grade 20 or equivalent to P35,000 monthly and the proposed increase is over and above the NEA limit.
It also noted that the National Association of Electric Consumers for Reform (NASECORE) also objected to the increase through Resolution No. 2011-04 dated March 4, 2011.
The body tasked Councilors Richard Carino, Erdolfo Balajadia and Bagbagen to come up with a toned down version of the latter’s resolution.
Apart from this, Bagbagen also proposed that the city oppose the increase of the BENECO directors’ countryside development fund from P200,000 to P500,000 and to require the power firm to submit an audited financial report to the city government. (PIO Baguio City/PIA –CAR)
Category:
Baguio City
Display of cars-for-sale now banned along roads
by Aileen Refuerzo
The display of vehicles-for-sale is now prohibited along roads in the city.
The city council last Monday approved on third reading Ordinance No. 15 series of 2011 “banning parking and displaying of all motor vehicles marked for sale” along any road in the city.
Violators will face penalty consisting of fines ranging from P1,000 to P5,000.
Even owners of cars with “for sale” marks or other words with the same effect who would park only for a short time along any road will not be spared as agreed upon by the body.
Authored by Councilor Fred Bagbagen, the measure intends to stop the practice of some residents to display their cars with for sale marks along roads for long periods and has become an eyesore.
“It is observed that buying and selling of second hand or used motor vehicles is an unregistered business practice in the city,” Bagbagen noted.
“Since Baguio City is a center of commerce, even people engaged in buying and selling business of motor vehicles from the nearby BLISTT area come to display and park their motor vehicles in the thoroughfares of Baguio City for an appreciable length of time thereby depriving other motorists of parking space.”
He said this results to serious traffic problems as other motorists are forced to resort to double-parking.
“If ever the practice of using roads as display areas for business is illegal as roads are beyond the commerce of man,” he said.
As per the ordinance, “all motor vehicles marked or tagged with the phrase “for sale” or in any phrase or words in circumvention hereof depicting the same meaning as to effect sale or swap and any act of disguise to confound detection by authorities shall not be allowed at any time to park the same on all roads of the city.’
The city police is tasked to implement the measure and to strictly monitor roads for said violation. *(PIO Baguio City/PIA CAR)
The display of vehicles-for-sale is now prohibited along roads in the city.
The city council last Monday approved on third reading Ordinance No. 15 series of 2011 “banning parking and displaying of all motor vehicles marked for sale” along any road in the city.
Violators will face penalty consisting of fines ranging from P1,000 to P5,000.
Even owners of cars with “for sale” marks or other words with the same effect who would park only for a short time along any road will not be spared as agreed upon by the body.
Authored by Councilor Fred Bagbagen, the measure intends to stop the practice of some residents to display their cars with for sale marks along roads for long periods and has become an eyesore.
“It is observed that buying and selling of second hand or used motor vehicles is an unregistered business practice in the city,” Bagbagen noted.
“Since Baguio City is a center of commerce, even people engaged in buying and selling business of motor vehicles from the nearby BLISTT area come to display and park their motor vehicles in the thoroughfares of Baguio City for an appreciable length of time thereby depriving other motorists of parking space.”
He said this results to serious traffic problems as other motorists are forced to resort to double-parking.
“If ever the practice of using roads as display areas for business is illegal as roads are beyond the commerce of man,” he said.
As per the ordinance, “all motor vehicles marked or tagged with the phrase “for sale” or in any phrase or words in circumvention hereof depicting the same meaning as to effect sale or swap and any act of disguise to confound detection by authorities shall not be allowed at any time to park the same on all roads of the city.’
The city police is tasked to implement the measure and to strictly monitor roads for said violation. *(PIO Baguio City/PIA CAR)
Category:
Baguio City
P4.5M development work for Heritage Hill proposed
by Aileen Refuerzo
A development plan to put up a nature walk and view deck facilities at the Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park has been proposed.
The Baguio Heritage Hill Committee chaired by Mayor Mauricio Domogan approved the development plan for the nature park as presented by the city engineering office costing P4,550,000.
Based on the program of work submitted by city engineer Leo Bernardez, the projects will consist of the construction of a pathway or eco-trail costing P3,650,000, four units of gazebo amounting to P640,000 and two units view decks, P260,000.
Councilor Philian Weygan-Allan, a member of the committee, submitted the project for confirmation by the city council through a proposed ordinance which was approved on first reading last Monday by the city council.
Weygan included in the ordinance the realignment of P4,130,005.94 from the Centennial Commission Fund balance to be used for the proposed project.
The city government intends to introduce substantial development in the area this year and included it as a priority project with P20 million allocation.
The overall concept for the development of the area was estimated to cost P98 million including the rehabilitation of the building, parking area construction, slope management, greening or landscaping, fencing, drainage system development and installation of sewer line.
The city initially introduced improvements in the area by constructing the perimeter fence, improving the road and parking area that amounted to P18 million.
The area was designated as a property for environmental, tourist, education and spiritual activities. *(PIO Baguio City/PIA CAR)
A development plan to put up a nature walk and view deck facilities at the Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park has been proposed.
The Baguio Heritage Hill Committee chaired by Mayor Mauricio Domogan approved the development plan for the nature park as presented by the city engineering office costing P4,550,000.
Based on the program of work submitted by city engineer Leo Bernardez, the projects will consist of the construction of a pathway or eco-trail costing P3,650,000, four units of gazebo amounting to P640,000 and two units view decks, P260,000.
Councilor Philian Weygan-Allan, a member of the committee, submitted the project for confirmation by the city council through a proposed ordinance which was approved on first reading last Monday by the city council.
Weygan included in the ordinance the realignment of P4,130,005.94 from the Centennial Commission Fund balance to be used for the proposed project.
The city government intends to introduce substantial development in the area this year and included it as a priority project with P20 million allocation.
The overall concept for the development of the area was estimated to cost P98 million including the rehabilitation of the building, parking area construction, slope management, greening or landscaping, fencing, drainage system development and installation of sewer line.
The city initially introduced improvements in the area by constructing the perimeter fence, improving the road and parking area that amounted to P18 million.
The area was designated as a property for environmental, tourist, education and spiritual activities. *(PIO Baguio City/PIA CAR)
Category:
Baguio City
DepEd reiterates no collection of fees in public schools
by Mari Cruz
The Department of Education (DepEd) in the region has warned public school administrators anew to stop collecting fees this coming enrollment period.
DepEd -Cordillera Administrative region director Josefina Tamondong, in a radio interview, urged parents and guardians of public elementary and high school students to report to the DepEd any instance when fees are collected by schools during the enrollment period.
Tamondong said that the department has ordered all school administrators particularly public elementary and secondary schools to stop collecting fees from students except those that are allowed by law.
She explained that payment of voluntary contributions which include fees for Boy Scouts of the Philippines, Girl Scouts of the Philippines, the Philippine National Red Cross, Philippine Tuberculosis Society, Inc. and the Parent, Teacher and Community Association although authorized by DepEd, should not be collected during enrollment period.
She said that although there are several school officials in other regions being investigated for illegal fees collection for the previous years, Tamondong proudly stated that so far in the region, there was no case of illegal collection of school fees.
The DepEd official said that their office is always open to address any complaints or issues regarding questionable collection of school fees. (JDP/MC-PIA CAR)
Category:
Baguio City
Local dads appeal for the implementation of salary standardization law for judges
by Juliet Saley
BONTOC, Mt. Province- Concerned by the lack of interest of lawyers to apply for the position of judges in courts in the province that have long been vacant , members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) here enacted a resolution requesting President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III, to fully implement the salary standardization law for all judges in the Philippines.
In their resolution, the SP members stated that were duly informed that Salary Standardization Law for Judges has not been fully implemented considering that at present the salaries of judges in regional and municipal circuit trial courts are lower than that of public attorneys, prosecutors, and clerks of court.
It is for this reason that lawyers are not interested to apply for the vacant positions of judges in Mt. Province - one regional trial court judge and municipal circuit trial court judges are unfilled - thus, one Municipal Trial Court Judge handles two or even three municipalities.
If only to encourage lawyers to apply for the vacant Judge positions and thereby prevent the delay in the disposition of cases, there is a need for the full implementation of the salary standardization of judges, the resolution further stated. (JDP/JBS- PIA CAR,Mt. Province)
BONTOC, Mt. Province- Concerned by the lack of interest of lawyers to apply for the position of judges in courts in the province that have long been vacant , members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) here enacted a resolution requesting President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III, to fully implement the salary standardization law for all judges in the Philippines.
In their resolution, the SP members stated that were duly informed that Salary Standardization Law for Judges has not been fully implemented considering that at present the salaries of judges in regional and municipal circuit trial courts are lower than that of public attorneys, prosecutors, and clerks of court.
It is for this reason that lawyers are not interested to apply for the vacant positions of judges in Mt. Province - one regional trial court judge and municipal circuit trial court judges are unfilled - thus, one Municipal Trial Court Judge handles two or even three municipalities.
If only to encourage lawyers to apply for the vacant Judge positions and thereby prevent the delay in the disposition of cases, there is a need for the full implementation of the salary standardization of judges, the resolution further stated. (JDP/JBS- PIA CAR,Mt. Province)
Category:
Mountain Province
Abra job seekers invited to apply in May 18-19 jobs fair
by Maritess B. Beñas
BANGUED, Abra- The Provincial Jobs Fair Committee is inviting job seekers to the jobs fair to be conducted on May 18 – 19 at the provincial capitol here.
This annual job fair is a project of the provincial government through the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and other partner-agencies.
Employers both from private business firms and institutions and recruitment agencies for overseas employment will offer employment opportunities during the jobs fair. Some may even hire applicants on the spot.
Relative to this, DOLE provincial head Dr. Emerito Narag reminded the job applicants to bring along with them all their requirements such as bio-data, Certificate of Employment, authenticated birth certificate from the National Statistics Office, and 2 x 2 ID pictures.
Last year, 14 applicants who registered in the jobs fair were deployed in local establishments while 20 were assisted for overseas deployment, according to Constancia Trongco, officer-in-charge of the Abra provincial PESO.
Meanwhile, the commitment of Governor Eustaquio P. Bersamin to support interested and qualified skilled workers to work abroad still holds. Although the jobs fair committee had not formulated the guidelines for the implementation of the plan for the provincial government to provide financial assistance for qualified workers who need money especially for their placement fees, the Governor still helped those who sought his assistance.
Bersamin moved that a proposal be prepared and submitted for regular funding by the provincial government through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in order to have a ready financial assistance for those in need. (JDP/MTBB-PIA CAR,Abra)
BANGUED, Abra- The Provincial Jobs Fair Committee is inviting job seekers to the jobs fair to be conducted on May 18 – 19 at the provincial capitol here.
This annual job fair is a project of the provincial government through the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and other partner-agencies.
Employers both from private business firms and institutions and recruitment agencies for overseas employment will offer employment opportunities during the jobs fair. Some may even hire applicants on the spot.
Relative to this, DOLE provincial head Dr. Emerito Narag reminded the job applicants to bring along with them all their requirements such as bio-data, Certificate of Employment, authenticated birth certificate from the National Statistics Office, and 2 x 2 ID pictures.
Last year, 14 applicants who registered in the jobs fair were deployed in local establishments while 20 were assisted for overseas deployment, according to Constancia Trongco, officer-in-charge of the Abra provincial PESO.
Meanwhile, the commitment of Governor Eustaquio P. Bersamin to support interested and qualified skilled workers to work abroad still holds. Although the jobs fair committee had not formulated the guidelines for the implementation of the plan for the provincial government to provide financial assistance for qualified workers who need money especially for their placement fees, the Governor still helped those who sought his assistance.
Bersamin moved that a proposal be prepared and submitted for regular funding by the provincial government through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in order to have a ready financial assistance for those in need. (JDP/MTBB-PIA CAR,Abra)
Category:
Abra