Agshan Community Newspaper

AG S H A N Community NewspaperAUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 1AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011

Continue on page 36

Continue on page 36

Continue on page 36

Dengue cases in LT decrease

The number of dengue cases in La Trinidad appears to be decreasing but health officials said there is a need to remain vigilant.

Available figures from the Municipal Health Office (MHO) showed that from a high of 453 cases last year, there were only 166 cases reported for the past nine months of this year with the same duration.

Dr. Editha Francisco, municipal health officer, said that the marked reduction in cases can be attributed to the concerted

Civil Service awards 3 Benguet public servants

Three public officials and employees received regional awards for this year’s Civil Service Commission search for Presidential and Outstanding Public Officials and Employees.

Dr. Violeta Salda, Chief Science research specialist at the Benguet State University is the only awardee from Benguet vying for the Presidential or Lingkod Bayan award in the national level.

BY ALMIRA BENTADAN

BY CAROL BAG-AYAN

Continue on page 35

Rosalina Caya-os, a resident of Tabangaoen, Balili narrated this in an interview with Agshan staff.

Going back to history, the Balili River is known as a clean and healthy river in the late 1960’s to 1970’s. It serves as the major fishing area, picnic ground and swimming area of the community and tourists.

Today, the river is considered “dead.” As cited in Alah Soledad Sungduan’s article “Stand Up for Life,” the river is already considered biologically dead mentioning the fact that no common organisms are living in it.

The river has been a source of life as it provides water and river-

acquired food when it was still clean. Although today, despite its current state, the river continues to be a vital source of water used for agricultural purposes and hydro power generation.

“Balili River is a source of life. It serves as the source of irrigation in Bahong, Alapang and Alno. Also, it is the power behind four hydroelectric plants in Bineng,” Mayor Gregorio Abalos said.

A study conducted by the University of the Philippines- Baguio College of Social Science headed by its Dean, Dr. Raymundo Rovillos, bared that Balili River is polluted because of the behavioral (culture, attitudes, emotions, values, ethics) and

The opening of the Puregold, the country’s second-biggest retailer, in La Trinidad will open more job opportunities for residents of La Trinidad, Benguet, based on internal arrangements between the municipality and the Puregold Price Club, Inc.

According to one municipal officer, although there was no written agreement between La Trinidad Municipality and Puregold Company to employ La Trinidad residents only, there was an internal agreement done mandating the company to hire at least 60% local people.

Aside from the allotment for local residents to be employed in the said supermarket, Dwight Daodao, Puregold administration officer II, assured that the management already allotted a pasalubong section for

Puregold opens job opportunity for LT residents

The Phase I sanitary landfill in Induyan, Alno is almost full but still manageable. This was assured by Teofilo Langato, administrative officer IV of the La Trinidad Municipal Office.

There are four phases to be followed in the usage of Induyan

Alno Sanitrary Land fill. If Phase I will be full, the land dug for the Phase II land fill will be used to cover up the first. The same procedure follows for Phases III and IV.

According to La Trinidad Mayor Greg Abalos Jr., garbage is increasing because of the increase in population. This problem is

heightened because segregation of waste in the municipality is still not established.

“We produce about 85, 281 tons of garbage everyday (21 loads of dump truck daily) but we collect only 70 tons (17 loads of dump truck)

BY JOLLIBEE CALDERON & MARIE FE WANCE

a day. This is equivalent to 85% of the garbage,” says Langato.

On the part of La Trinidad residents, they are on divided ground. “Garbage here in La Trinidad is still a problem. I can still see uncollected garbage along the road,” says one student from Benguet State University.

On the other hand, Bert Tomin, worker at Benguet General Hospital (BeGH) says that the hospital segregates well its garbage. He added that in their barangay, Tawang, there are ladies who segregate garbage at the collection site every Saturday.

Kagawad Jaime Cosalan,

BY ANABELLE TOSTOS & NORREN JOY ANCHETA

social dimensions (interaction with others and to their collective co-existence) caused by human impact on the environment.

Initiatives to revive Balili River

Since 1980’s, many programs to rehabilitate and protect Balili River were organized. Today, public and private institutions through Balili River System Revitalization Coalition are once again trying to revive the previous image of the said river.

A Laboratory Community Newspaper of the 3rd year Development Journalism MajorsBachelor of Science in Development Communication, Benguet State University

‘State-of-the-art’ trading center soon to rise in swamp area

Restoring Balili RiverGroups join force to revive waterway

See story on page 4

PHO

TO B

Y: M

AU

REE

N J

OY

CA

RO

LIN

O

VOL.VIII LA TRINIDAD, BENGUET AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011

LT prepares for add’l waste land fillResidents urged to do home segregation

THERE IS LIFE AFTER RUBBISH. This was the concept of a photo exhibit of the Department of Development Communication and the 3rd year photography students at BSU Library Media Center from October 7-17, 2011 titled, “The SCAVENGERS: A Glimpse into their Lives and Struggles for Survival”. The photo exhibit gives an insight into the lives of people whose livelihood relies on the vast rubbish dumps in La Trinidad. They are the people that sorts wastes of all kind which are dumped on small and huge sites usually on the outskirts of the town to make a living. They need not to be pitied or should be seen as “untouchables” in this society for they are amongst the decent and reputable people making up a clean living out of other’s trashes and debris. Baed Balintag is a 62-year old scavenger, with a wife and three children, and living in La Trinidad. For him, there is no greater joy than to have a simple yet clean living while seeing your family supporting, loving and caring for you for the rest of your life.//fya

“Twenty years ago, the Balili River was clean; it has fishes and water cress. But as years go by, it was polluted with the increase of population.”

BY ROBELINE PADSICO, SHERIELYN BANGLIG & MERRY JOY DANGATAN

Continue on page 36

FLOCK FOR JOB. Hoping to dodge from unemployment, a number of applicants tried their luck as Puregold La Trinidad started screening for soon-to-be man powers last September 7 to 9, 2011 at the municipal gym.//Mervalyn Oplas

2 AG S H A N Community Newspaper AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011NEWS

AG S H A N Community Newspaper

LaTop expands marketOrganic products seen as food for tomorrow

The La Trinidad Organic Producers (LaTop) is now expanding its market since their opening at La Trinidad public market on September 2005.

LaTop has a total of five stalls within Baguio and Benguet including their latest branch at SM Megamall in Ortigas, Pasig City.

Johnson Cadaweng, general manager of LaTop, said that they are now planning to enter other markets in Manila. “We are targeting the most populated areas like Manila because organic products are already well endorsed here in Baguio and Benguet.”

The group sells almost all temperate vegetables like beans, carrots, Chinese cabbage, among others including seasonal fruits like avocado, guava, mangosteen and santol. Other products they sell include fresh carabao milk, pork, eggs, yoghurt, kangkong, saluyot, malunggay and other lowland vegetables from Rosario, La Union and Pangasinan.

Cadaweng added that many people are now patronizing organic products. Almost every year, the demand increases by 20% so they have to increase their production by 20%.

As of now, there are 150 farmers who are members of LaTop-Multi-purpose Cooperative (LaTop-MPC); most are from Benguet while some are from La Union, Tarlac and Mountain Province.

Esther Caga, 61, an organic farmer from Bineng, says that organic farming is the best. “I observed that people today die early, one factor maybe is the kind of food they eat, so I decided to shift to organic farming,” she shared. Two years ago, she was converted as organic farmer after attending trainings and seminars.

“I found that in organic

farming, if you plant just five plots with different kinds of vegetables, the income is still the same when you plant a wider farm applying conventional farming,” Caga shared. “You don’t have to buy pesticide, fertilizer and you don’t have to hire someone to work in your farm but in preparing for fertilizer you have to do manual labor by chopping although now, we have a technology we call shredder,” she further added.

LaTop’s products are guaranteed organic according to Amy Pasking, administrative assistant of LaTop-MPC. “We have the internal quality control system committee to check if farmers are really growing their products organically.”

In a separate interview, Cadaweng explained that the Organic C e r t i f i c a t i o n Certifying Body of the Philippines (OCCP) inspect farmers if they are practicing a c c e p t a b l e organic farming.

F a r m e r s should also undergo trainings conducted by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Local G o v e r n m e n t Unit (LGU) like the Office of the Municipal A g r i c u l t u r e ( O M A G ) before they will become official organic farmers.

W i t h the increase demand of organic products n o w a d a y s , C a d a w e n g

sees hope that “organic products will be the food for tomorrow.”

“If farming technologies would be improved, there is a possibility that organic products from the Philippines will enter the world market,” Cadaweng said.

Other countries like Singapore are willing to import organic products but the expected volume of products is still hard to meet, explained Cadaweng. “If we compare how much volume we have, maybe organic products are just under 1/8 of the usual commercial vegetable, fruit, rice and other products. With these, she stressed that there is still a need for more organic producers to meet the increasing demands of these products.//

BY JASMIN KIASO

ATI holds agri training to highland farm workersGabi, ube, sweet potato given importance

Thirty-eight agricultural extension workers and farmers from Benguet, Abra and Ifugao benefited from the training on technology packaging of three root crops in the highlands conducted by the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)- Cordillera Administrative Region.

Ube, gabi and sweet potato were the identified root crops to be packaged in the training.

According to ATI-CAR, based on their training design prepared by Edwin Dicksen, agriculturist I, because of the country’s growing population and demand for alternative food, root crops production deserves particular attention. Its unrealized yield potentials can be tapped with new or improved production technologies; thus the said training.

Ines Gonzales, Director of Northern Philippines Root Crops

and Research Training Center (NPRCTC) and Grace Bacyan of the same office served as the main lecturers during the two-day training which was held on October 6 to 7, 2011.

According to the organizers, the participants learned about the selection of good planting materials, proper ways of planting and the different

products that can be processed out of raw gabi, ube and camote.

Ines also discussed how gabi or taro can be made into candies, flour, wine, gelatin, cookies, bread and many more. Ube on the other hand can be made into jam, cake, flour and wine while camote can be processed into wine, chips and flour.

In addition to the packaging of the three identified crops, Dicksen also shared some ways on how to make natural pesticide out of tomato, lemon grass, makahiya and hot pepper (sili).

Towards the end of the training, an action plan was drafted by the participants, which is the main output of the training. The output consists of the detailed plans of farmers and specialists on how they will apply the knowledge they learned in their own community. Dicksen added that they can also request planting materials from the NPRCTC through this action plan.

“It’s good, I learned a lot of new technologies which can help me,” said Milagrosa Justo, Awardee of Magsasakang Siyentista of Itogon who attended the training.

Most of the participants assured during the culminating activity that they will be sharing the gathered information to their respective municipalities for their own development.

“Hopefully, I will be able to propose another training about processing of gabi, ube and sweet potato,” Dicksen ended.

Free planting materials of gabi and sweet potato were handed out by

BY JASMIN KIASO & MARIE FE WANCE

Best way to solve LT wastesResidents urged to do home composting

The Office of Municipal Agriculture (OMAG) of La Trinidad started conducting seminars and orientations regarding Home Composting last January 2011 with an advocacy to promote the Solid Waste Management

BY JOANNE VHALE MILAN & CAROL BAG-AYAN

Program of the municipality.The seminar, which is a

continuous service of the office, is in partnership with the Japan Agriculture Exchange Program (JAEC).

Jay Sano, municipal agriculturist I, said that this is

OMAG’s way of helping the municipality address its problem on garbage. The office added that the activity is also offering a lecture on the two-drum composting technology adopted from the Japanese who have been using such in their country for the past years.

“The basic responsibility of an individual in a barangay is to segregate and to lessen his generated garbage,” Sano emphasized.

Sano said that home composting is the easiest way to manage biodegradable wastes. Moreover, it reduces the wastes going to the land fill and the final product which is the compost, can be used as natural fertilizers for plants. Experiments conducted by OMAG have shown that compost is beneficial in growing varieties of flowers such as chrysanthemum, anthurium, and roses.

Sano added that it would be best if composting location is near the kitchen for more accessible throwing of biodegradable wastes. The wastes will also be composted faster and easier if they are cut into smaller pieces, and if they are moist but not wet. The wastes need to be mixed regularly to provide aeration for the composting bin. The compost bin

should have covers to protect it from rain, animals and other disturbances as well as to maintain its heat.

“You should only bring residual wastes to the garbage collector, sell the plastics, and compost your biodegradable wastes,” explained Sano.

Barangays, sitios, organizations, and even individuals who do not have home composting materials but are interested to practice home composting can approach OMAG for orientation and to avail composting drums for 500 php each.

Meanwhile, as part of the extensive implementation of the program, OMAG had already installed home composting facilities in 15 sitios of La Trinidad. Entrepreneurs and business men who plan to establish business in the municipality are also required to undergo orientations regarding home composting before they can avail of their business permits.//

SIMPLY ORGANIC. Despite the high price, a customer prefers to buy the product sought by healthy conscious populace- organic vegetables- from LaTop stall at the La Trinidad public market.//Mervalyn Oplas

Photo taken by: Anabelle Tostos

AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 AG S H A N Community NewspaperAUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 3AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 NEWS

BFP records no fire

Personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) La Trinidad announced that the months of August and September were zero fire.

BFP record shows that August and September were ‘zero fire months’ as compared to the months of January to July where 15 fire cases in La Trinidad were recorded.

The month of June had the highest rate of fires having seven cases causing an estimated amount of Php.186, 000.00 with 4,000 square meters burned land area. Causes of fire during those months are electrical, combination of heat and bonfire, open flame or cooking, flammable liquid and LPG tank.

Most fire accidents occurred on buildings, residential houses and small establishments, followed by vehicular and forest fires.

The month of April is the second in terms of fire incidents. Three cases of which originated from the combination of heat and bonfire, cooking

BY JOLLIBEE CALDERON

and cigarette butt. The estimated amount damage is P100, 500.00 having 21,300 sq.meters land area.

According to Fire Investigators, the month of July has the highest estimated amount damaged having P1.5M. These are two houses burned at Buhaw,Puguis that is why the estimation of the damage is costly. To sum it up, the causes of all these fire cases within the month of January until July are accidental based on the investigation report of the BFP personnel.

“Maintain fire safety because it is a way of life,” Inspector Saturnino Labbag said adding that fire safety is the BFP’s main concern in the community. Moreover, Inspector Marshall Matbagan added that the negligence of land-owners is one of the causes of fire.

For assistance during fire incidents, BFP La Trinidad can be contacted through telephone number 422-1131, and for instances of emergency, they are also coordinating to some BFP nearby La Trinidad.//

One Card for Cordi’s health:PhilHealth launches ‘1M in 1M’ campaign in CAR

‘There should be one million Filipinos to be registered in one month.’

This is the main focus of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation or PhilHealth with their ‘1M in 1M’ (One million in One month) campaign which was launched here in the region on October 7, 2011 following the launching in Manila last month.

“It (pertaining to the campaign) is actually anchored on the Universal Health Care (UHC) program of the DOH,” says Magnolia Del Rosario of PhilHealth-CAR.

She further explained that the regional launching is one way to be able to meet its goal of insuring every Filipino’s health (Kalusugang Pangkalahatan) by 2013.

To encourage non- members to register and make registration easier and more convenient, PhilHealth CAR holds its registration at SM Baguio Business Center. SM is one of the largest companies among the many private sectors partnered with PhilHealth in this program through the Public- Private Partnership (PPP).

While it was announced that applicants can register to any of the 1, 067 Bayad Center registration sites nationwide, residents of CAR are advised to register at SM Baguio in the mean time as the Bayad Centers within the region are not yet accepting registration.

To attract more registrants, a new PhilHealth ID card and some incentives are offered. Del Rosario explained that though the said campaign’s primary target is the non-members, current members can also avail of the new card.

She emphasized that the new card is not mandatory and that current members can still use their ID cards. However, compared with

the old one which is made of paper, the new card is made up of polyvinyl chloride or PVC material (known as vinyl- a plastic material made on the basis of salt and oil). Accordingly, a PVC product has a life-expectancy exceeding 60 years and is perfectly fit for recycling after use.

“It is more durable and presentable,” says Del Rosario as she showed what the new card looks like. It is like an ATM card and bears the member’s Philhealth number, full name, birth date and sex. It has also a magnetic stripe at the back which, Del Rosario explained, can make the card handier especially when it will be upgraded in the future like the SSS card.

When asked about the benefits that come with the new card, Del Rosario said that aside from the usual benefits a member can avail of, the new card can be used without having to be admitted in a hospital. Cardholders can also get discounts from establishments that partnered with PhilHealth through the PPP. In Baguio City, cardholders can avail of discounts at Watsons Personal Care Stores in SM Baguio.

In order to avail discounts from partner- merchants, one should be an active paying member (including Lifetime members) and a principal member. Del Rosario explained that while dependents can have their own ID cards, they are not allowed to avail of discounts in partner- merchants using their IDs. However, they can use the card of those whom they are dependent (principal member). They can still use their cards to avail of benefits at accredited institutional health care facilities.

And to be able to avail discounts in partner establishments, a member must show a receipt

BY CARMELITA PACOS

LT recognizes senior’s part in ComDevCelebrates nat’l elderly Filipino week

For the 17th time, the local government of La Trinidad once again a c k n o w l e d g e d the contributions of La Trinidad Senior Citizens in community d e v e l o p m e n t during the celebration of the National Elderly Filipino Week.

The week-long event was conducted in c o l l a b o r a t i o n with La Trinidad Federation of Senior Citizens A s s o c i a t i o n (LTFSCA) which was held at LT Municipal Hall and Municipal Gymnasium on October 3 to 8, 2011.

With this year’s theme, “Nakakatanda: Gabay, Tulay, Kaagapay at Bantay tungo sa Kaunlaran,” Dr. Carlota Lubrica, adviser of LTFSCA, said that the National Elderly Filipino Week is in accordance to Presidential Proclamation 470 of 1994 which is to recognize the Senior Citizens as “especial Filipino of wisdom and maturity.”

Estrella Adeban, chairman of Committee on Social Services, says that this is the time for SCs to show they exist; that they have talents and that they are committed to the government. “We are part of the development of our community,” she says during the Assembly Culminating Activities on the celebration’s final day.

‘Senior’ officers of the dayAs part of the celebration,

some Senior Citizens assumed the government officers’ positions starting from the Mayor’s seat down to the Department heads on October 3, 2011.

This is patterned to the Scout Officers of the Day (SOFAD) of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines where selected officers of the LTFSCA assumed officership to selected local government unit offices.

The officers of the Day were Mayor Robert Valentin, Vice Mayor Pio de los Santos, Councilors Lito Saltin, Patricio Bansen, Alicia Carbonel, Jessica Orden, Primitiva Gorospe, Evelyn Juan, Federico Sobremonte, Felipe Oway, Adorable Castillo and Marcelo Sico, Sangguniang Bayan Secretary Elsie Padao, Municipal Administrator Mario Rufino, Health Officer Calpia Atas, MSWD Officer William Aguilan, Local Civil Registrar Semina Manuel, Treasurer, Alice Manao, Assessor Albert Tambaga, Budget Officer Bernard Baldo, Licensing Officer Lilia Mabiasen, Accounting Officer Nena Catane, Legal Officer Robert Cirilo Sr., Agriculture Officer Virginia Bagni, MPD Coordinator Samson Ambros and Engineering

BY MERVALYN OPLAS

Officer Leonila Dalpasen.The Mayor, Vice-

Mayor and Councilors were able to make ten resolutions.

“The meeting of the SCOFAD is considered the regular meeting of the SB. The resolutions they made is to be carried,” says LT Vice-Mayor Romeo K. Salda.

Meanwhile, the Municipal Legal Officer of the day Robert Cirilo Sr., said in an interview that sitting in such position for a day is a treasure and is a crowning glory for his 41 years in government service.

Physical activitiesLolos and lolas tested their

brains and brawns at the Municipal Gym on October 5, 6 and 7 when they danced, exercised and had group and individual sports competition. They were divided per barangay for the group c o m p e t i t i o n .

T h e SCs played V o l l e y b a l l , B a d m i n t o n , B o w l i n g , B i l l i a r d , Dama, Chess and Scrabble.

Barangay B a l i l i c h a m p i o n e d in both volleyball men and women category.

Other sports events and the corresponding winners were as follows: Badminton (1st -Alice Manao, 2nd-Rose Mascoy, 3rd -Dominga Alyado); Bowling Men (1st -Dunie Nang-is, 2nd -Rudy Libayan, 3rd -Robert Batolne); Bowling Women (1st -Lourdes Badol, 2nd -Rosalina Lucop, 3rd -Myrna Mudon and Virginia Bagni); Billiard (1st -Dario Langpuyas, 2nd -Ernesto Malicdan and Fidel Pasking, 3rd -Romeo Somaden); Dama (1st -Mateo Donglipen, 2nd -Ramon Tomin); Chess (1st -Agustin Guzman, 2nd -Juan Manao); and Scrabble (1st -Letty Ogbinar, 2nd -Imelda Dusayen).

Culminating activitiesElders proved to be energetic

and competitive in singing and dancing on October 8. With the leading of LTSFSCA Officers headed by their president, Mr. Agapito Delmas, the last day of the activity brought the Senior Citizens to stage their talents in singing and dancing.

A competition on singing and and performances on dancing filled the gym with excitement and laughter.

The winners of the singing contest were the following: For the solo, Emily Wakit of Barangay Wangal got the 1st place followed by Francisca Otanes of Barangay Poblacion and Asuncion Yadao of Barangay Pico who got 2nd and 3rd place, respectively.

For the duet competition, Francisca Otanes and Esperanza Hidalgo got the 1st place. Ursula

Bobila and Purita Saley placed second followed by Albert Carame and David Impiso who landed third.

The winners were given cash prizes amounting to P200 to P500.

H o n o r a b l e Romeo Salda commended, in his message during the program, the activeness of Senior

Citizens during Barangay activities. “No met activities ti barangay, dakayo nga Senior Citizens ti adda.”

He also stressed that SCs are really part of development and are given respect.

On the other hand, Hon. Ronald Cosalan, the guest speaker during the culminating program said that by 2012, the five million SC medical assistance budget will be given to Benguet General Hospital where they will give a five thousand-peso discount to SCs who are certified indigent by DSWD.

Five hundred seventeen Senior Citizens from the sixteen barangays of LT attended the Assembly and Culminating Program.//

Continue on page 35

“The meeting of the SCOFAD is considered the

regular meeting of the SB. The

resolutions they made is to be

carried.”

The vigor has noT changed. Seeming to return to youthfulness, La Trinidad Senior Citizens danced during the culminating activity at the municipal gym in celebration of National Elderly Filipino Week.// Mervalyn Oplas


New traffic scheme proposedAuthors urge drivers’ participation during public consultations

New traffic scheme is now being implemented for observation (experimental stage) in La Trinidad, Benguet to lessen the problem on traffic.

The noticeable traffic congestion along the roads of La Trinidad is a heavy concern because it generates multiple disadvantages such as air pollution, inconvenience, waste of precious time, irritations and accidents. Thus for public convenience, the resolution was proposed.

The resolution on number coding scheme in the municipality was proposed by Councilors Jim Botiwey, Henry Kipas and Ryan Von Tauli.

The traffic scheme was drawn from the various experiments they conducted prior to the passing of the scheme for implementation to determine the best scheme and regulation applicable to the traffic situation of the municipality.

This implies Public Utility Jeepneys to follow the “odd-even scheme” while private vehicles

would follow the “coding scheme.”Under the odd-even scheme,

PUJ’s with numbers ending with 1,3,5,7 and 9 are not allowed along the highway from Km 3 to Km 6 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays while 2,4,6,8 and 0 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Taxis and private vehicles ending in 1-2 are banned on Mondays; 3-4 are prohibited on Tuesdays; 5-6 are banned on Wednesdays ; 7-8 on Thursdays and 9-0 on Fridays from seven o’clock to nine o’clock in the morning (7:30A.M.-9:00A.M.), from eleven o’clock in the morning to one o’clock in the afternoon (11:00A.M.-1:00P.M.), and from four o’clock to seven o’clock in the afternoon (4:00P.M.-7:00P.M.)

In the said event, the authors urged transport operators to share their suggestions to make the scheme successful as possible. They were given 20 days to submit their position papers that contain their suggestions.

“Unfortunately, we did not

receive one position paper in that expanse of 20 days and as of this date (October). We are really frustrated because we are also trying our best to reach their needs,” says Botiwey.

On the process of formulating ordinances, public hearings encourage the public to incorporate their thoughts. They are important elements to pass an ordinance.

“The ordinance is for them, not for us. It is not our fault if the traffic scheme will not meet their discretions,” Botiwey emphasized and still urges for any contributions amongst transport operators.

Until the traffic scheme will take effect, an experimental scheme is implemented along the roads of La Trinidad following the same implications of the proposed traffic scheme. According to Botiwey, by the first quarter of January next year, the ordinance should have been passed and implemented. Effectivity of the traffic scheme will take place 30 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation in La Trinidad.//

BY JOHN GLEN SAROL

La Trinidad is on its way to be a world class market.

Through the partnership of the Municipal and Provincial Local Government Units of La Trinidad and Benguet, Department of Agriculture (DA), Benguet State University (BSU), and Benguet Farmers’ Marketing Cooperative, a state-of-the-art trading center known as Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center (BAPTC) will soon rise at the Strawberry Farm of La Trinidad, Benguet.

The trading center aims to assure food sufficiency, food safety, equal share of the farmers and the middle men, and employment to the people in the province.

BAPTC will feature cold storage warehouses, commercial areas, processing areas and postharvest facilities which will cater to the agricultural products of Benguet and the nearby provinces. Three agricultural trading center buildings will be used for sorting/grading and certification/packaging of the agricultural products.

The processing area will be utilized for the processing of fresh cuts (ready to cook) vegetables for chopsuey and other vegetable

BY MERRY JOY DANGATAN & ROBELINE PADSICOrecipes, fries (potato fries), salad types and ready-to-eat fresh veggies. Meanwhile, the postharvest facility will be used to prolong the freshness of the veggies before transporting them to the other markets nationwide.

“It is a trade for all crops but it will also accommodate the organic market, but they should slowly go organic for safety,” says Dr. Violeta B. Salda, project proponent. The trading center will accommodate vegetables provided that the farmers will strictly follow the recommended application of insecticides and pesticides. Moreover, farmers should not harvest their crops upon the application of chemicals to assure food safety.

Salda added that the trading center aims to put up an industry that will absorb the

graduates of the province. The state-of-the-art facility will establish a modernized trading center that will make the country globally competitive.

Moreover, the trading center will serve as the “bagsakan center” similar to that of the La Trinidad’s

Trading Post. However, with the state-of-the-art facilities, BAPTC will be more convenient and spacious to the traders, farmers and consumers.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the facility was signed last August 13, 2011 by Department of Agriculture Secretary

Processo J. Alcala; Benguet State University President Dr. Rogelio D. Colting; Benguet Congressional District Representative Roland M. Cosalan; Benguet Province Governor Nestor B. Fongwan; La Trinidad Mayor Gregorio T. Abalos, Jr.; and Benguet Farmer’s Marketing Cooperative Vice Chairman John M. Sagpaey.

The MOU states that the income derived from the BAPTC Facility, meant to be a business and social enterprise, shall be equitably divided into a manner most reasonable under the circumstances, taking into consideration the equity infused by all parties, opportunity lost and gains and such other monetary contributions from project conceptualization to operation.

The BAPTC is expected to be operational in 2013, two years after the MOU signing. Bidding for Construction is ongoing. //

‘State-of-the-art’ trading center soon to rise in swamp area

Trading cenTer for a change. Aiming to improve the market system, a state-of-the-art Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center is expected to rise in the year 2013 to cater the agricultural products of Benguet and nearby provinces.// Cherry Potectan

no To Traffic. To lessen traffic, a new code scheme resolution was implemented as an experimental stage and expected to take effect January 2012.// Cherry Potectan


LT ties up with PRC, CSC for bloodletting activity

A total of 139 bags (62,550 cc) of blood were collected during the mass blood donation campaign at the municipal gymnasium spearheaded by the local government of La Trinidad in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross-Benguet Chapter and Civil Service Commission-Benguet Chapter.

Oscar Paris, Red Cross Administrator, Benguet–Chapter, said that the blood collected will undergo laboratory testing at the Red Cross blood bank to ensure a safe and quality blood.

Safe and quality means safe from Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), Paris noted.

Veronica Tactay, Red Cross Medical Technologist, added that in order to ensure that the blood collected is free from Transfusion Transmissible Infection(TTI), the blood collected will undergo several laboratory testing for Hepa B, Hepa C, Syphilis , HIV and malaria. A donor will be able to know if he/she has a TTI because implications are indicated on the thank you letters which were given to the donors, Tactay explained.

According to Cornelia M. Rillera, Civil Service Commission director II (Benguet Chapter), prior to the bloodletting event (September 20, 2011), their office forwarded letters to all Benguet government units urging them to participate and support the bloodletting activity as part of the Civil Service anniversary.

Based on record, blood

BY MARIE FE WANCE

2 drainages to solve road flooding in LT

Residents of La Trinidad, particularly those at kilometers four and five, will no longer experience flooding along the national road when the construction of lateral canal and two drainages is done.

This was assured by Engr. Celso Aquino, project engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Benguet, during an interview.

These two separate drainages are being constructed at the Little Flower area in Km. 4 and at the Lubok area in Km. 5 where 2m x 2m box culverts are being installed. These canals, which are perpendicular to the national highway, will drain the rain water from the road to Balili River.

An approximately 180-meter lateral canal will also be constructed along the national road- 90 meters from Little Flower area towards the Capitol and another 90 meters towards Baguio City. This canal will be connected to the two perpendicular drainages and will be covered with steel grating to prevent garbage from going into the canal, thereby avoiding clogging.

Engr. Aquino explained that the project aims to solve the flooding problem along the national road in response to the clamors of some residents nearby the highway. He explained that the area is easily flooded during rainy days because the old drainage cannot accommodate all the waters.

The drainage at the Lubok area is already progressing and is expected to be finished by the end of October.

At the Little Flower area, excavation has already started but issues are still being resolved between La Trinidad Water District, DPWH, and a private lot owner regarding a portion of the land where the canal would

pass. These issues will be discussed with the private owner sometime this October, Engr. Aquino added.

The project was under the Post Ondoy and Pepeng Short Term Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project (POPSTIRP) of the DPWH.

Consultation with residentsIn June this year, the barangay

officials and the contractor of the said project conducted a consultation meeting among the affected residents of Km. 4 at the Little Flower Children’s Home Foundation. During the meeting, some barangay officials and the contractors explained what

the project is all about and its purpose. They also answered queries regarding the stability of the ground, the load limit and other concerns of the residents who attended.

However, since very few residents attended the meeting, some are still against the project while some have reservations about its sustainability.

“Baka mapunno ti basura ken baka bigla ngay nga agsink nu bumayag” (It might be filled with garbage and might also sink after several years), said Remy Maliacos, a

resident of Km. 4. Another resident said that after

a year, the canal might shake if big trucks pass on the road. Some also said that instead of the rain water going to Balili River, it might go back to the road instead.

Engr. Aquino, however, assures the community that this will not happen because the canal will be inclined with one end (the one connected to the lateral canal at the national road) higher than the other end leading to Balili River.

He added that they will put a “tail” at the end of the canal which opens to Balili River to direct the water with the flow of the river.

With the possibility of the canal being clogged with garbage, Aquino pointed out that they will put a manhole every 50 meters so that people can clean the canal when filled with wastes.

While some residents don’t agree with the project, some see it as a solution to the flooding at the main road. Some also said that this would benefit the community because the road would be cemented.

Another consultation was also conducted among the residents at the Lubok area and there had been no problem with the residents.//

BY ALMIRA BENTADAN & NORREN JOY ANCHETA

donors came from LGU’s and NGO’s such as Barangay Officials of La Trinidad, Benguet State University, Benguet Vocational School, Highland Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Consortium, Rural Health Unit of LT, Dep-Ed CAR, Philippine National Police, Department of Agrarian Reform and Community Environment and natural Resources.

For Wilma Valenzuela, first time donor, donating blood made her feel good and elated knowing that she is somehow helping others who are in need of blood.

Adam Pacya, a second time donor, also said that he is happy because aside from helping someone, his body will be replenished as well.

For those who are in need of blood, Paris said that they can avail blood at the Red Cross blood bank for free except for a processing fee which will depend on the blood component.

Packed Red Blood cells costs P1100 while whole blood costs P1500. Fresh and Frozen Plasma (FFP) on the other hand costs P700.

Requesting party or individual just have to secure a blood request from the attending physician for blood needs and present the form to the Red Cross blood bank. If the blood is available, the request will be served immediately. However, if they have prospect blood donors, they bring them along.

Red Cross blood bank is open 24 hours.//

NSRS to aid unemployment problems in LTNational Skills Registry

System (NSRS) can help ease unemployment as it can reduce job search periods and job-skills mismatch which includes lack of experienced and skilled workers, unresponsiveness of schools to industry needs and poor dissemination of labor market information.

This is according to Lorna Bacolong of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Bacolong requested LTs Sangguniang Bayan (SB) members during their regular meeting on October 11, 2011 to make a resolution requesting LT Mayor for the LGU to have MOA with DOLE-

CAR accepting the usage of NSRS.NSRS is a web-page facility

where people searching for jobs can input their names, information about them and their address. This would be where companies can map-out needed employees who are qualified for a job.

With the live register of skills and expanded databank of manpower feature of this system, it needs to be updated every now and then to ensure if those whose name in the system are really existing, are ready for employment, are employed already or are not available for job anymore. Philippine Overseas Employment Agency, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration,

TESDA and Philippine Regulatory Commission (PRC) would be some of the data sources. PRC would be where the licenses or diplomas would be validated.

DOLE came up with this program because of the fact that employment plays a very important role in the development of a community. Bacolong emphasized that there is a high rate of unemployment and underemployment in the country that needs to be urgently addressed.

“This system prioritizes the unemployed and underemployed who are not happy with their jobs,” says Bacolong.

LT-LGU is one of the six

target LGUs of DOLE-CAR for the second wave of the system’s implementation. The other five are Itogon, Benguet; Bontoc, Mountain Province; Bangued, Abra; San Juan and Alfonso Lista, Ifugao. The first wave was implemented in Tabuk City, Kalinga. The said municipalities were chosen because they are strategically located where people from different places go and where big establishment projects are invested.

LT Councilor Henry Kipas said that the LGU is mandated to support the implementation of this system so long as it is really a very successful program. Councilor Jim Botiwey added that

BY MERVALYN OPLAS

they are interested with the program.Bacolong, however, explains

that the implementation of this system would really need mobilization of the Barangay Captains. “Of course, they need to check on the unemployed and underemployed in their barangays. It would really need much effort,” she added. Also, an IT personnel is needed to take charge of the system’s fixing.

She also added that as soon as the LGU and DOLE signs the MOA, DOLE is ready to provide the computer units needed and they are ready to provide technical assistance to the IT personnel.//

More than 90 Human Resources Management officers from several HRM Practitioner Agencies based in Benguet took part of the Vetiver Grass and Bamboo Tree Planting Activity at Sitio Kibungan, Puguis, La Trinidad Benguet. The activity aims to prevent soil erosion and further damage at the land slide area.//

Pico Barangay Chairman Juan A. Mandoza requested P70,000 for the installation and repair of the destroyed railings during typhoon Pedring in Pico, La Trinidad, Benguet. The request is still on process for approval.//

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

drainage To comforT. As a solution to flooding problems along km 4 and 5, DPWH is currently working along Little Flower and Lubok areas.// Cherry Potectan Photo taken by. A.Tostos


Underground spring to solve water crisis- LTWD

Shortage of water supply has been a consistent problem with the growing population of La Trinidad. Scheduling was set by La Trinidad Water District (LTWD) to at least lessen, if not solve, the problem and to supply, if possible, all the target areas.

However, water sources of LTWD are still not enough resulting to complaints from the affected individuals. This, according to Oliver Taule, LTWD’s general manager, is inevitable with the increasing population of La Trinidad.

With this, LTWD started the development of an underground spring near Balili River at the back of Little Flower Children’s Home Foundation compound in Km.4, Balili, La Trinidad. The land is a private property of Elmer Mariano, a resident of Lubas. The MOA is yet to be signed but the lot owner already gave his verbal consent for the construction of the project.

The spring development actually started in 1996 but construction works were done on a staggered basis due to insufficient funds, Taule explained.

A pump house comprising two tunnels inside was already constructed in the first quarter of this year. Across this is where a

three-storey building is to be built wherein the first floor will serve as the reservoir and filtration plant while the second and third floor will serve as the laboratory and field offices, respectively. The budget for the building is approximately 5.3 million pesos. The 200 square meter lot where the building will be constructed was bought by the LTWD at 2.1 million pesos.

Since there is a river between the pump house or spring source and the building to be constructed, LTWD will construct a suspension bridge. The discharged pipes from the spring source to the filtration plant will be laid along the floor deck of the suspension bridge. The bridge will also serve as a passage for LTWD personnel going to and coming from the filtration plant and spring source.

The spring will serve as another water source for residents of barangays Balili, Pico, Betag, Poblacion and Puguis.

Further, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) already tested the spring water through Bacteriological Test, and Physical and Chemical Analysis Test to ensure that it is safe for drinking and domestic use.

“Mayat ta pagsayaatan met.

BY NORREN JOY ANCHETA

Mayat a ta pumigsa ti danum mi ditoy gamin n a k a p s o t , ” (That’s better. It’s good so that we will have adequate supply of water), Precy Dongail, a resident at Km.4, said.

T h e pump house, i n c l u d i n g the first floor of the three-storey building is expected to be operational c o m e D e c e m b e r this year.//

Bayabas deep well on standby LTWD waits for resident’s approval

The construction of the deep well in Bayabas, Pico, La Trinidad, which was started in January 2002, was stopped due to oppositions from the residents.

According to Engr. Oliver I. Taule, La Trinidad Water District (LTWD) general manager, residents of the said barangay forwarded complaints and rallied against the construction of the deep well in February of the same year.

“It is hard to resume the project because the residents did not accept the project and we fear that they might sabotage it,” expressed Taule.

With the delayed construction, Juan A. Mendoza, Pico Barangay Captain, said that

BY ANABELLE TOSTOS

the residents of sitio Bayabas fear the project might drain their private shallow wells and two springs located near the construction area.

He added that most households have their own private deep wells in the lower part of the sitio and the elevated areas have their own as well but most were installed by the government. The water from the deep well serves as their source of water for washing, bathing and cooking. Water consumed for drinking is bottled or mineral.Taule, on the othe hand, assures Bayabas residents that in constructing the new deep well in the Barangay, water will not be tapped from the surface and will only come from underground for safety.

Explaining the supposed plan of the deep well, Taule explained that the water which will be pumped from the deep well is supposed to be divided equally between Dreamland Subdivision and the sitio itself. With this, the LTWD had an agreement with the Barangay that if the project will affect these private deep wells, the project will close.

However, until the residents will approve the project, Taule says that the started project will remain as a reserve of the LTWD.//

LT cop record proves zero gambling in ‘11

Cases of illegal gambling in La Trinidad, Benguet decreased, records show.

Compared to last year’s three police records of the violation of Presidential Decree 1602, which prohibits all forms of anti-illegal gambling, this year records zero incident for the past nine months.

According to Sargeant PO3 Frederick Dio-alan, intelligence police non-commission officer, the noted decrease was observed since the Municipal Ordinance under the P.D 1602 was strictly implemented during the time of former LT Mayor Artemio Galwan.

Illegal gambling includes playing cards involving money, jueteng, salisi, and mahjong.

Salisi is a form of gambling usually played during wake. Accordingly, this was the most commonly played form of gambling on the previous years but was totally prohibited now since it is included in the Municipal Ordinance.

On the other hand, mahjong is considered as illegal gambling when there are groups in two or more tables. “When it is played on one table, it is not considered an illegal gambling,” Dio-alan explained.

In relation to this, a seminar workshop was conducted on the third week of July to disseminate and further clarify the said ordinance among the PCP Commanders.

Penalty for violators of the ordinance is less than six-year imprisonment; however, bailable.//


LTWD adds one deep wellAn approximately 180 meter

new deep well is currently being constructed by the La Trinidad Water

BY BEN SEBIANO JR.

District beside the deep well no. four at Km. 6, Balili, La Trinidad, Benguet which is expected to pump 200 gallons water per minute.

According to Engr. Oliver Taule, LTWD general manager, the deep well is expected to be finished by November this year. Supposedly, the project was estimated to be finished last September, however, the drill rod and drill bit was stocked up during its operation in July.

The beneficiaries of the new well will include Barangay Cruz, Alapang, and some parts of Bahong.

LTWD also revived two existing deep wells built by the Japanese International Corporation Agency (JICA) named JICA 1 and JICA 2. This was used by the community of Wangal, Poblacion, Long-long, and Puguis.

Meanwhile, Taule said that Deep Well No. 4 located at Km. 6 needs replacement because it is not

functioning well. He pointed that from its normal function of pumping 200 gallons per minute, it lowered to 70 gallons per minute then decreased again to 40 gallons per minute.

La Trinidad has 11 Deep Wells, but only eight are operational. Deep well number 7, 1, and 10 were abandoned and not operational because of the less production of water being pumped by the wells.

There are also three existing spring operated by the LTWD. Two are located at Lubas where one is on-going construction and the other one is in Puguis.

“We consumers must support and participate in any reforestation programs or projects for our benefits especially that we may maintain, sustain and even add the productivity of our water supply in our community,” said Engr. Taule.//

LET IT FLOW. Water shortage problem is expected to be lessened the time this on-going construction of needed facility will be finished.//Mervalyn Oplas

MORE WELL. The on-going construction no four aims to cater the increasing need of water in La Trinidad, Benguet.//Robeline Padsico


The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Benguet First District Engineering Office delayed the re-construction of Pico-Lamtang road which is supposed to be finished by December this year.

The delay was due to problems regarding negotiations with the residents of Pico whose properties are located near the road, including Benguet Electrical Cooperative (BENECO) posts positioned in site, explained by Marites Reoteres and Francisco Garabiles, project engineer and project facilitator, respectively.

According to Juan A. Mendoza, Pico Barangay Captain, they are trying to mediate between DPWH and the concerned families so that both sides may come up with possible agreements.

Due to these problems including the interruptions caused by typhoons Mina and Pedring, only 60% of the road was finished. “By this time, we should have accomplished

90%,” Reoteres explained.Reoteres added that the project

involves the construction of four- lane concrete pavement with concrete canal on both sides, and construction of grouted riprap. She added that the rehabilitation of the concrete pavement will provide a wider and better riding surface for the commuters.

With the renovation, residents expressed that they are expecting reduced travel time and minimized traffic jams during rush hours. Also, the construction of concrete canal on both sides will provide a better drainage; thereby, flooding on the area will be reduced especially during rainy season.

Re-construction of the road started on April 10, 2010 with the allotted budget of P12, 100.

Reoteres also emphasized that they will still pursue the four- lane highway; however, the completion will be extended.//

BY JOANNE VHALE MILAN & CAROL BAG-AYAN

Lubas youths support LGU’s waste campaign

The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) and youths of Lubas conducted a clean-up drive on October 14-15, 2011 within the barangay premises in support to the municipality’s Clean and Green, and Solid Waste Management campaigns.

According to SK chairwoman Loida Licang, the activity aims to promote ecological awareness and environmental care among the residents of the barangay especially among the youths.

She added that the activity seeks to involve the youths in the activities of the barangay to change the community’s notion that they are the problem of the community.

‘‘Tapno instead nga apan da agtamtambay or agbisbisyo ket at least makatulong da pay’’ (so that

instead of hanging out or indulging themselves in vices, they can at least offer help), she explained.

Several clean-up drives were also conducted in May and in August; however, Licang added that this should be done monthly.

The barangay council of Lubas also added that they are conducting clean-up drives twice a year.

Kagawad Marcelo Salipio said that every sitio in the barangay is required to conduct regular clean-up drives in their areas. Unfortunately, out of the seven sitios, only Inselbeg implements the activity every two months.

On the other hand, Kagawad Honorio Aglamas suggested to the SK to conduct a tree planting activity as soon as the improvement

BY JENNELYN LICANG

Towards a healthy society1st LT cup organized

The success of the previous cups in Baguio City led to the idea of conducting a first ever Pigrolac/UNAHCO-LGU La Trinidad Basketball League or La Trinidad Cup.

James Binos, tournament organizer of the cup, stressed that the cup was conducted ‘‘to give chances to sports enthusiasts especially the basketball fanatics to showcase their talent.’’

Also, the said activity is for health maintenance, to build camaraderie among teams and to support the programs of the municipality.

The tournament, which officially started on July 24, 2011 and is expected to end sometime in November, is being held at the municipal gymnasium.

Participants are mostly LT residents and other residents from Baguio and Benguet. 50 participating teams are divided into five brackets: Bracket A (former varsity players of 2008 and below); Bracket B (former varsity players of 2002 and below); Bracket C (former varsity players of 1998 and below); Bracket D (players other than varsity players); and Bracket E (players with ages 35 and above). Players from Bracket E are allowed to play in two different teams.

Each team is comprised of 12-15 persons, wherein a coach and a team captain are assigned. Also, color coding was assigned per team. The game is still in the elimination stage which is played under Single Round Robin.

During weekdays, games are played after 5:30 until 10 pm since players are composed of laborers, office workers, businessmen,

students and others. On the other hand, games resume upon the availability of the gym on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 10 pm.

A registration fee of 8,500 was collected from each team which is allocated to the rent of the gym and to the salary of the game officials.

According to Binos, the league is a big help to the community by promoting sports as tool in avoiding one’s vices and by giving additional income to the municipality and to the officiating referees, timers, and others.

Furthermore, he added that the league also developed the players in some aspect.

‘‘The league has a great help in the development of the players particularly discipline and that these kinds of leagues help in uniting the residents of the community,’’ said Patricio Ocampo Jr., a player.

Patrick agreed that the league helped the youths in avoiding vices such as smoking, drinking liquor and others. These vices, according to him, are among the reasons of crimes in the community.

He also added that confidence and unity were developed in him. With that, he suggested that his barangay (Lubas) should support these kinds of activities.

‘‘We also encourage aspirants to develop their talents in certain games, discipline themselves. Who knows one day we’ll see one playing at the PBA or NBA,’’ Binos expressed.

Moreover, he said that he plans to conduct another league in the future depending on the availability of the gym and the readiness of participants.//

BY JENNELYN LICANG

Issues face Pico-Lamtang road DPWH delays reconstruction

of the Nursery at Lubas Elementary School is finished and an appropriate location for the activity is assigned.

Patricio, a resident, said that the activity is good because the road will be cleaned and dengue will be prevented. He also suggested that children should also be involved in the activity so that they will also learn to pick-up garbage.

Meanwhile, Licang said that they are planning to conduct other activities within this month such as literary contests for children and sports activity in coordination with the Lubas Youth Organization which will involve the youths, wherein they will be playing according to age so that the older ones will not only the ones to play.//

Drunkenness heightens LT crime incidentsCops urge residents to help lessen crime rate

Liquor-related incidents still stand out as one of the mostly committed crime in La Trinidad.

La Trinidad Municipal Police Station (LTMPS) recorded many physical injury cases, homicides and vehicular accidents which are due to drunkenness of people involved. In most cases of homicide, a drunken person usually accidentally kills another person. “Accidentally, masaksak da ti kainuman da no ag-aapa da, (They tend to stab their drinking companions when they fight),” explains Police Senior Inspector Victoriano B. Paac of LTMPS.

Most recorded crimes happen in Barangay Pico, Betag and Poblacion where business establishments are congested.

“Ag-close met dagiti liquor stores no alas otson ta agronronda kami ngem adda dagiti magapu diyay Baguio (Liquor stores (bars) close when it’s eight (pm) but

BY MERVALYN OPLASdrank people often come from Baguio),” Paac further explains.

LTMPS Chief of Police Richard Albon explains that the reason why there are liquor-related crimes that happen beyond ten, “adda dagiti sulpeng nga uray na-curfew ket agsubli da no pinmanawen dagiti pulis.” He added that there are bars, though, that are accredited by the Department of Trade (DOT) which can operate until four in the morning. These are the bigger bars which can attract tourist.

Along with physical injuries, homicide, and vehicular accidents which are categorized under Crime against Person type of crime, theft, which is categorized under Crime against Property is another common crime in the municipality. Most of the caught thieves are young people below forty, some are minors; there even are 12 years old. Some of them are from neighboring places of LT and there are some who are residents of La Trinidad.

“Poverty is the major reason

why theft is rampant,” says Paac. Minors who are 4th, 5th, and 6th graders caught stealing are ignorant of the law. They resort to stealing when they feel hungry.

Sharmaine Wacwang, LTMPS statistician, revealed that the crime rate (since June) has significantly rose based on their statistics from 44.73 % in June to 48.62 % in July. In August, data rose to 68.07%; however, in September, the rate lowered to 59. 32%.

To lessen crime occurrences, LTMPS heightens police visibility. However, La Trinidad’s population is too big to be accommodated by the small number of the police. “The ratio is one is to more than 1,300 and this is too big to be handled by only one police,” explains Albon.

With this, Barangay Peace-keeping Action Team (BPAT) and Barangay Tanods are seen to be of great help.

For residents to help in

lessening the crime rate, COP Albon advises them to follow the municipality’s ordinances. “Nu curfew, adda tayo koma idiay balbalay tayon tapno maiwasan dagitoy nga krimen. I-secure tayo met ti valuables tayo. Haan tayo nga ikkan dagiti agtatakaw ti pagkainteresan da (During curfew hours, they (residents) should be in their homes to avoid

such crimes. Let us also secure our valuables. Do not give these thieves something to be interested in).”

He also encourages those who have filed complaints in the Police Station to push through with their complaints because this would be a big help to lessen the number of criminals, therefore lessening crime incidents.//

Pushing through. After the clashes between Pico residents and DPWH and the weather condition which delayed Pico-Lamtang Road’s reconstruction, the four lane highway construction is now again on the go.//Mervalyn Oplas

8 AG S H A N Community Newspaper AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011

‘Nursery Establishment Mngt’to solve Arabica’s low yield in CARBY JENNELYN LICANG

Shilan has new police outpostA new police outpost was

built and is expected to be used in October this year at Barangay Shilan in replace of its old police outpost.

It can be recalled that the old police outpost was a project of the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR). The area was small (12x14 sq.m.) that it cannot accommodate even just five tanods and was made up of woods and has galvanized iron roofing. Given this condition, Georgina Delmas, the former barangay captain, requested for the improvement of the outpost by passing a resolution requesting for funding.

When Mariano Caluza, the new barangay captain, took over, he continued the processing of the resolution until it was granted by the Municipal office with allotted budget of P500,000 for its construction.

However, Caluza said that the amount was utilized only in the building construction,

BY BEN SEBIANO

Brgy Betag bares plan to construct culvert canals for farmers

Barangay Betag plans to develop a box culvert canal which will be utilized as the source of irrigation for the farmers during summer and as a drainage canal during rainy season to address the problems of Betag and Benguet State University related to the flooding at the swamp area.

This decision of the barangay was heightened by the aftermath of Typhoon Mina that recorded several damages to the farmers in the said area.

According to some farmers, the onslaught of the previous typhoons made their farm look almost like a rice field wherein crucifer growers lost their income because leaves of the vegetables decayed easily, seedlings were destroyed and strawberry mother plants were submerged in water.

“Some of the problems of the Barangay were lack of drainage and irrigation canals and the absence of a main canal to cater the household water wastes which contribute to the flooding,” Juan Dulnuan, barangay kagawad of Betag, explained. He also added that the wastes are not only coming from the Barangay of Betag but also from Pico and Puguis.

On the other hand, questions

regarding the lack of drainages along the strawberry field were answered by Ruth Diego, Benguet State University (BSU) business affairs director. “We want the Barangay to get involve in establishing all the drainages to the Bolo Creek because water wastes come from them (Barangay Betag’s household wastes),” she said.

Moreover, aside from the flood problem, farmers say that they lack clean water for irrigation. Peter Daw-iles, an officer and farmer in the swamp area said that farmers lack clean water irrigation because water filtrated from the filtration plant cannot accommodate the needed water of the farmers.

Concerning this problem, BSU and the barangay had an agreement that water wastes should be directed to the filtration plant of the university to have an adequate supply of water for irrigation. Kagawad Dulnuan explained that about 70% of the household waste is directed to the filtration area. The remaining 30% waste cannot reach the plant because the location is lower than the filtration plant.//

BY ANABELLE TOSTOS

NEWS

excluding the septic tank. Thus, twenty percent of the barangay funds was set aside for its construction.

The construction of the building, including its painting started in February and was finished in June 2011.

“The new Police Outpost is better now for it has a comfort room and it is spacious,” said Kagawad Marfil Bao-an.

“The Police Outpost will play an important role especially now that Shilan-Beckel-Tip-top road was declared as a national road and a lot of vehicles pass along the barangay,” Caluza said.

Shilan has twenty one active tanods who are expected to operate and stay at the new outpost.

“If you want assistance from Police as well as from our tanods, you are always welcome to approach them at our Police Outpost or through phones,” says Caluza. He also added that it is a

duty of the tanods to serve 24 hours.Caluza hopes that the assigned

compact (community based Police) as well as the tanods will utilize the new Police outpost as a place of immediate action for the community.//

‘Knock out Crime’ kicks LT dad enjoins citizens to work hard to stop crimes

The Municipality of La Trinidad Police Station started to live its new slogan, “Knock out crime” as part of this year’s Crime Prevention Month celebration by conducting several activities to promote crime prevention awareness among the community of La Trinidad.

This year’s celebration commenced with the “Pito tayo laban sa krimen” activity, a simultaneous blowing of whistle participated in by the personnel of La Trinidad Municipal Police Station, members of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and members of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) with the LGU of La Trinidad and some NGO’s.

La Trinidad Police Chief Inspector Richard B. Albon explains that the blowing of whistle is one way of calling offenders’ attention and stopping them from committing crimes, thus the activity is a campaign towards crime prevention.

BY ALMIRA BENTADANTo raise awareness among

the youth who are the usual victims of crimes, the Police Community Relations (PCR) of PNP-La Trinidad conducted series of lectures on crime prevention among college, high school, elementary and pre-school youths in the different schools in the municipality.

The PCR discussed several crime prevention tips, bomb threat awareness, anti-kidnapping awareness, anti-drug abuse awareness and anti-gang or fraternity awareness to remind the youth of the ill effects of getting into these vices.

Police visibility was also increased. Mobile and foot patrol around La Trinidad was intensified to prevent further committing of crimes.

Some police were also deployed to assist in managing the traffic along the national highway. During school and barangay affairs, the police offered security assistance. They also helped in reporting

irregularities in the municipality which may endanger the community.

Prior to the crime prevention month, LT PNP conducted trainings among the force multipliers-barangay tanods, Barangay Peace Keeping Action Team (BPAT) and Civilian Volunteers Organization (CVO) in the different barangays of La Trinidad to prepare them for crime prevention.

With these crime prevention activities, SPO 2 Rogelio T. Limbawan noted that crime rate in the municipality has decreased from August’s 68.07% to 59.32% in September.

Meanwhile, La Trinidad Mayor Gregorio Abalos Jr., during the opening of the celebration, urged the different agencies and all the citizens in the municipality to work hand in hand towards crime prevention. Albon also asked the collective effort of the police force in maintaining peace and order in the municipality.//

Arabica coffee is facing low yield in the region due to the lack of nurseries to produce quality planting materials for new plantations.

Based on the findings of the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS), as provided by the Department of Agriculture (DA), “there was a decline of 0.88% annually in coffee production from 127,000 hectares to 122,000 hectares for CY 2004-2010. This pulled down the productivity of the coffee industry by 2.02 % whereby increasing imports to 1.70%. An average of 60% of the total supply of coffee came from domestic production while 40% of which is imported mostly from Vietnam and Indonesia” (DA Report).

With the great demand of coffee production, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)-CAR conducted training on Organic-based Coffee Production (Nursery Establishment Management) at ATI-CAR and Benguet State University Agro-Forestation Project area on October 4 to 7, 2011.

Participants of the said activity were coffee growers who are members of Arabica coffee multi-purpose cooperatives in Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) operating in Barlig, Mountain Province, Kibungan and Atok, Benguet.

Resource persons of the training were BSU Professors Valentino Macanes, Andres Basalong, and Mario Marquez with topics focused on coffee nursery establishments.

Charlie C. Sagudan, ATI-CAR project officer, said that they envisioned the trainees to establish and manage nurseries in their

places in order to come up with more coffee growers and producers in the future. By then, 25,109 hectares of land is expected to be used as coffee plantations in CAR in 2016. When attained, harvest will increase and farmer’s income and employment will increase as well.

Due to low coffee production, the country exports 20,000 to 30, 000 metric tons of coffee, and an increase in the coffee production could at least lessen the amount of importation. In Brazil, one coffee tree can supply three kilograms of green beans as compared to the country wherein one coffee tree can only produce 650-800 kilograms of green beans.

In line with the training, ATI-CAR aims to continually support the maintenance of the nurseries, in partnership with the cooperatives, and in coordination with other government agencies.

“We would like to inculcate the essence of shared responsibilities,’’ said Sagudan. He added that they want the cooperatives to be involved so that they will be able to value the program.

Meanwhile, a training on Coffee propagation will soon be conducted this November 22 at ATI-CAR.//

AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 AG S H A N Community NewspaperAUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 9AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011

Continue on page 35

‘Black Hole Tech’ over ‘Envi Recycling System’LT tests new recycling practice to solve waste problem

Instead of Environment Recycling System (ERS), La Trinidad Municipal Office will test the effectiveness of Black Hole Technology (BHT) which can possibly solve the garbage problems in the locality.

According to Teofilo Langato Jr., Municipal Administrative Officer IV, the Municipal Office and the manufacturer of BHT in Japan signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) which states that the Municipal Office can return the technology if it is found to be ineffective and not suited in La Trinidad’s condition. He also said that this agreement is made because the waste in Japan is different from the waste produced in the locality which possibly has different effect.

According to Langato, the technology is needed because the municipality accumulates 26 % recyclable, 53 % biodegradable and 21 % of residual.

“Black Hole Technology turns garbage, except metals and other derivatives, into ceramic ash that occupies little space which will lengthen the span of our landfill,” says Dwight Dao-dao, Municipal Administrative Officer II.

Furthermore, Dao-dao explained the difference between ERS and BHT. ERS processes only biodegradable and is more expensive while BHT can process other wastes aside from biodegradable waste, cheaper with P58 million-cost. Also, BHT does not use fuel or diesel and electricity unlike the ERS. The technology can process 10 tons of waste.

Dao-dao said that the municipal office already paid almost 50 % of the original price. Moreover, Mayor Gregorio Abalos Jr. said during the municipal development council meeting that the Cooperative Bank of Benguet lent money for the acquisition of the machine.

The BHT is expected to arrive before the end of this year because it is still under shipment. However, Langato emphasized that when the technology arrives, it will not be used immediately by the municipality until it was proven safe and effective.//

BY SHERIELYN BANGLIG

SB approves SK resolutionBSKC to budget their own fund

The Sanguniang Kabataan shall now be the one responsible in budgeting their own fund and not the Sanguniang Barangay.

This was emphasized in the resolution submitted by La Trinidad Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairman Brenden Quintos with Councilor Henry Kipas to the Sanguniang Barangay (SB) for their compliance.

The resolution stresses the implementation of the provision of the Local Government Code on the 10% SK fund and to allow the Barangay Sangguniang Kabataan Council to do the budgeting. This

was immediately approved after some discussions in October 11, 2011 during the SB regular meeting.

Quintos bore during the meeting that he came up with the resolution because some barangays in La Trinidad are not allowing the Barangay SK Council to budget their own fund. Instead, the Barangay Captain is the one appropriating the budget. This was the concern brought out during the SK Federation’s latest regular meeting according to him.

He added that this resolution would lessen the pressure of barangay SK Chairmen in arguing with their Barangay Captains about the budget.

NEWS

BY MERVALYN OPLAS

URI high among LT children

Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) is the most prevalent disease of children ages four and below of the first and second quarter this year. This is according to the Provincial Health Office (PHO).

Dr. Editha Francisco, La Trinidad municipal health officer said children ages four and below are vulnerable to this kind of infection because their immune system is not fully developed.

She explained that upper respiratory infection includes coughing and colds. She added that fever is one symptom of URI. This respiratory infection is not fatal but may result to lower respiratory infection which needs hospital monitoring and higher form of medication, if not treated immediately.

According to Francisco, Respiratory Infection is acquired by inhaling the bacteria when someone sneezes or coughs so this is an airborne disease.

“When having colds or cough, tissue is advisable to use than handkerchief where bacteria can spread when touched,” Francisco says.

She further advised that all mothers should breastfeed up to two years, give their children proper nutrition, go for check-up immediately if symptoms appear and most importantly complete the vaccine of babies before one year old since all vaccines for this age is free on government health centers.

She also added that we should always be ready to protect ourselves. We should always bring umbrella, jacket, get enough sleep and eat well because babies are not the only ones who get sick easily but adults as well, due to the unpredictable weather conditions.

In a separate interview with a community member, Marieta Oras, a mother, iterated that “children today are hard-headed, even if you warn or teach them, they will not listen to you but even if that’s the case, mothers should always have the patience to teach their children.”//

BY JASMIN KIASO

Ext’n workers trained to push organic agricultureBY MARIE FE WANCE & JASMIN KIASO

Thirty-five agricultural extension workers (AEWs) from the provincial local government unit and Municipal Local Government Unit of the region were trained to become trainors on organic agriculture in their respective areas.

Conducted by the Agricultural Training Institute-Cordillera Administrative Region (ATI-CAR), the five-day activity is in line with the Organic Agriculture Act or RA 10068, an Act to promote, propagate, further develop and implement the practice of OA in the Philippines.

Charlie C. Sagudan, focal person of the said training, explained that the main objective of this is to train AEWs who will soon conduct training on OA in their own municipalities. “They will disseminate what they have

learned during the training,” he added.Trainings, which will be

conducted by the AEWs in their respective municipalities, will be subsidized by ATI. Sagudan also said that OA has a bright future because initiatives and funds are coming from the government.“Hopefully, with this, conventional farming will be eradicated,” he added.

The topics discussed during the training include: organic agriculture practices such as natural farming practices and technologies, ecological pest management, vermi-composting, and mokusako - wood vinegar production and utilization. Trainees were oriented about RA 10068 and its implementing rules and regulations by Dr. Joseph Balaoing, OA advocate.

Prov’l capitol bldg undergoes improvementThe fourth phase of the

improvement of the provincial capitol building will now push through after the completion of the third phase last September 2011.

According to Porter Camsol, Provincial Architect II, the Building is undergoing improvement so that the unused office in the third floor, which was formerly used as three judicial courts, will be utilized. Ramps from the ground floor to the second floor will also be done for disabled persons.

Camsol added that improved

BY RISHIE SUMAYAO

Benguet State University plans to develop the Strawberry Fields into an Agri-Tourism Park by Summer 2011.

The proposal states that picnic area, café, view deck, parking lot, restaurants and pathways along the field will be developed.

P56 million pesos was the estimated amount needed for the Agri-Tourism Park and will come from the BSU’s Agri-

Tourism Fund according to Ruth Diego, BSU-University Business Affairs Office Director.

She also added that the said proposal aims to generate job for the public, especially students who will apply as tourist guides during their free time.

“Instead of increasing the rent, better yet make use of the resources,” Ruth Diego ended.//

BSU to make strawberry fields into tourism spotBY ANABELLE TOSTOS

“There are certain processes followed in releasing the fund. All we know is the BSKCs are the ones budgeting for their fund,” says ABC Chairman Robert Namoro.

Councilor Jim Botiwey explains that the concern passed the Budget and Finance Department because the SK officers before did not oppose. “However, the SK officials’ autonomy should be respected. They have to exercise their autonomy,” he added.

He further said that the SB office will support the SK Federation’s plea as long as they do their part.//

Meanwhile, Jay Sano, one of the representatives (together with Felicitas Ticbaen) of the Office of the Municipal Agriculture, La Trinidad, said that they are planning to call for an orientation on OA this month of October to identify all interested farmers of La Trinidad on Organic Agriculture.

“We will be coming up with master list of old organic farmers and interested farmers and from them we will disseminate what we learned during our training,” Sano said. He added that they will teach and assist the farmers on how to make organic pesticide and fertilizer and provide necessary technologies needed.

Trainings for interested farmers will be scheduled around October to December 2011.//

offices would provide comfort to employees in their respective working areas while meeting the influx of technological office machineries.

From the General Development Fund of 2010, the P1,989,946.02 bid amount of the project covered the renovation of the part of the building’s electrical and ceiling designs.

Camsol added that the duration of the project should have been a ninety calendar days; however, due to some retouching and further furnishing, the construction was

completed beyond the expected days. Phase I of this project was

done in 2008 during the first term of Governor Nestor B. Fongwan. The project covered the renovation of the office of the governor amounting to less than 1 million. The budget came from the Maintenance of Offices and Equipment (MOOE 2008).

Phase II covered the initial renovation of the entire building, electrical and ceiling design. Twenty percent of 2009 fund amounting to seven million was allotted for Phase II.

SOLUTION FROM WITHIN. Rocks to solidify the flood control being constructed along the Balili River banks are taken from the river itself. The construction of the flood control is part of the Post Ondoy and Pepeng Short-Term Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project (POPSTIRP) under the Flood Control Component being implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways. Its Php 41, 291, 133.32 budget was funded by a loan from Japan International Cooperative Agency (JICA).//Almira Bentadan


Shilan prohibits spitting of ‘moma’ in public placesSpitting of moma

in public places of Shilan is now prohibited.

This was after the implementation of Shilan Barangay Ordinance No. 04 SS. 2008, which prohibits the spitting of betel nut, locally known as “bua” or “moma” in public places in the said barangay.

The ordinance has been passed in 2008 but was only implemented in June, this year.

“All of the waiting sheds within the barangay has a tint of moma,” said Kagawad Jeffrey Maslag, who, with Barangay Captain Mariano Caluza, initiated the said implementation.

“In some occasions, like wedding, some of the locals are chewing momma while cooking and it is unsanitary,” says Kagawad

BY BEN SEBIANO

NEWS

Maslag. What is surprising according to him is that even elementary pupils are being addicted to it like a cigarette.

These are the very reasons for the adaption of the Municipal Ordinance No. C-001-96, Section 174 (Spitting, littering in public

places), adding the prohibition of spitting “bua” in the barangay.

To disseminate information about the said ordinance, Caluza said that they posted notices in the waiting sheds and stores as well as in the public places within the barangay.

Thirty prospect trainees from the different municipalities of Benguet are expected to attend the 8th Certificate in Practical Organic Agriculture (CPOA) training that will be held on October 17- 26, 2011.

Mr. Jamesly Andres, training coordinator of Benguet State University’s Research and Extension, said that the training is conducted as part of the Extension Office Services (EOS) program in promoting organic farming.

The said training is an eight-day event (weekdays) composed of eight modules. It is a combination of lecture, demonstration and hands-on training. It includes field visitation “for them (trainees) to actually apply what they have learned during the lecture,” explained Mr. Andres.

Andres clarified that there is no fixed or organized schedule on when and how often they conduct the said training. “We conduct it as the need arises.”

He added that CPOA training will push through when they are able to acquire at least fifteen participants. Meanwhile, they limit the number of participants to

thirty for each batch of trainees. When asked how the public

learn about the said program and other current services offered by the EOS, Mr. Andres explained that it is through the combination of personal inquiry; the radio program, ‘BSU on the Air’ anchored by Bassit nga lakay, Dr. Silvestre L. Kudan; and through social networking sites particularly through Facebook.

Most of the lecturers are specialists within the university and are practitioners in organic agriculture. These include Dr. Silvestre Kudan and Dr. Jose Balaoing- practitioners who have had their projects related to organic agriculture. Organic farm owners such as Rogel Marzan, proprietor of Cosmic Farms and Magsasakang Siyentista for Natural Farming Engr. Eric Tinoyan of Tuba are also tapped as resource speakers especially during field visit and demonstration.

Certificates will be given to trainees at the end of the activity. Mr. Andres explained that the said certificate is recognized by the BSU’s Graduate School and is actually equivalent to 3 units.

Mercedes Luis, a BS Agricultural Engineering graduate of BSU, is among the members of the “Gumbayas” batch (5th batch) who joined the CPOA training in March this year. After their training, Ms. Luis had practiced organic farming. She has a farm planted with fruit crops in Atok and Itogon.

Another benefit of undergoing CPOA training, according to Ms. Luis is to be able to apply as a member in the BSU Internal Guarantee System (BIGS) Farmer’s Association. “You can’t sell your product in the BSU Organic Market unless you are a member of the association,” said Luis. She is the current secretary of the said farmer’s association.

Interested applicants need to prepare P5000 for the registration fee. This, according to Mr. Andres, will cover the trainees’ handouts and necessary materials; food during the entire training; transportation during the field visit and incentives of the resource speakers.

For inquiries, visit their office at Chrysanthemum Hall, BSU, Km. 5 or you can contact them at 442-1877.//

BY CARMELITA PACOS

BSU to conduct organic agri certification training

Free Tetanus Toxoid 2 Recipients decreased

Fifty six thousand and three hundred four women from the different municipalities of Benguet had benefited from the free Tetanus Toxoid (TT) immunization program (Round 2) of the DOH on August 22-26, 2011. It is lower compared with the 63, 091 who availed of the first round in July this year.

This is according to the consolidated report of Ma. Visitacion Saingan, program coordinator of the Expanded Program for Immunization.

It is recalled that Benguet and Abra were the chosen provinces to receive the free immunization because they are among the provinces who received less TT immunization in the past. And to eliminate Neonatal Tetanus in the ten highest risk areas of the country, a three round TT immunization was conducted (except for the third dose which will be administered in February 2012).

Saingan explained some of the factors that caused the decrease in the number of recipients during the second dose. According to her, there were some women who have been traumatized because of what they felt during the first immunization. This includes painful injection, swollen injection site, hematoma and itchiness. Others who are working (including some students) said that they had conflict schedules with their appointment in their respective clinics.

Other reasons that came up were some women got sick during the immunization, it’s planting and rainy season. As a result, original schedules were not followed.

The total beneficiary of the said immunization is 89.16% of the eligible population target of 82, 677 by the Provincial Health Office (PHO). //

BY CARMELITA PACOS & JASMIN KIASO

LTMPS encourages abused women to pursue complaints

With the implementation of the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act (RA 9262) in La Trinidad, only two complaints out of 53 were pursued.

This was based on the record of the La Trinidad Municipal Police Station (LTMPS) for the month of September.

Many withdrew their complaints before it is given proper action by people in authority.

“I-encourage mi nga i-push through da koma ti darum,” says LTMPS Chief of Police Richard Albon.

A credible source from the

BY MERVALYN OPLAS

However, he admits that the implementation is still difficult since some of the people in the community are not following the ordinance.

According to Caluza, he always reminds the tanods who are on duty to be strict in implementing the ordinance. He added that if necessary, they should bring any violator to the office for disciplinary actions.

Meanwhile, selling of betel nut is not prohibited. Caluza explained that they cannot prohibit vendors from selling “bua” since it is their source of income.

Nevertheless, Kagawad Maslag said that vendors must not be allowed to sell betel nut to children.

Violations of the said ordinance

will be penalized accordingly. For first offense, violators must pay Php 100 and will be required a one-day community work. For second offense, violators must pay Php 200 and a required two-day community work. For third and fourth offense, violators will be fined with Php 300 and a required three-day community work; and Php 500 fine and a required five-day community work, respectively. For the succeeding offenses, violators must pay Php 500 and do community work for 15 days.

Kagawad Maslag explained that they are not longing after the penalty but for the residents to be disciplined.“For the cleanliness of the barangay, they should observe self-discipline and proper disposal in chewing betel nut.”//

LTMPS Women’s Department who likes to stay anonymous says that common reason why many women do not continue their complaints is because family relationships are in peril. “Lalo na kasi kapamilya nila, kailangan nilang timbangin kasi damay ang mga anak (Especially of part of the family (the abuser), they (abused women) have to weigh things because their children are affected.) Iyong iba naman, they withdraw their disposition pag nilambing ng kanilang asawa (abuser).”

She added that some women do not even seek help from their office. “Mga palaban lang ang pumupunta

(Only those who have strong fighting spirit come).”

Albon adds that one reason why complaints are not pursued is lack of witness.

On the other hand, he explains that women movements did not fall short of informing women of their rights.

It was stressed that abuse experienced by women is not only physical but also emotional and financial.

RA 9262 defines Violence Against Women and their Children as “any act or a series of acts committed by any person against a woman who

BY RISHIE SUMAYAO & LOMIBA SAKIWAT

DOT to launch new Benguet tourist spot

The Department of Tourism, together with some municipal officials of Bokod, will be conducting a trek on October 19-21, 2011 at Mt. Porgatory as a grand opening of the place to be included as tourist spot in Benguet.

Before declaring as a tourist spot, the Mt. Porgatory passed the tourism guidelines and standards conducted by the Department of Tourism-Benguet. These include the presence of attraction, thick pine forest, and possible campaign areas.

According to Claire P. Prudencio, Provincial Tourism Operations officer, residents of Poblacion, Bokod have undergone several preparations and trainings on how to handle visitors. They offered several meetings and drills to educate them on how to cater guests.

Meanwhile, Prudencio added that a test trek will follow. Media people, mountaineers and students will climb the place. After which, they will be evaluating the trek and suggest ways to improve it. Their suggestions will be taken into consideration by the DOT.

Furthermore, the name Mt. Porgatory adds to the mysteries for the climbers to be thrilled. Prudencio said that as they travel to the top, they will know how the place got its name.//

is his wife, former wife, or against a woman with whom the person has or had a sexual or dating relationship, or with whom he has a common child, or against her child whether legitimate or illegitimate, within or without the family a b o d e , w h i c h result in or is likely to result in p h y s i c a l , sexual, psychological harm or suffering, or economic abuse including threats of such acts, battery, assault, coercion, harassment or arbitrary deprivation of liberty…”

An abuse woman who prefers to be unidentified said that she did not know that there is a certain department in the Police Station as Women’s Desk until she experienced being threatened that she had to

disclose it in the said office.

Women’s desk emphasizes that women needs to reach them especially

when the situation is dangerous like when they are being threatened. They can call the police station through their hotline. If not, they can request for barangay protection.//

“...abuse experienced by women is not only physical but also emotional and financial.”


Develop fruitful vegetable prod’n in Benguet:A Japanese farmer’s dream

‘‘My dream is to develop and maintain fruitful vegetable production bases in Benguet,’’ says Masaki Yokomori.

Yokomori is a Japanese farmer who went to U.S. to undergo training in farming. After his training, he returned to Japan and developed his own farming system, which is based on enriched soil which according to him was a successful one.

When he was given the chance to visit Benguet, he was impressed to see that Benguet farmers are hard-working.

‘‘I also found that you (Benguet people) loved vegetables and strawberries. Your hard work and your love of farming had built the ‘Salad Bowl of the Philippines’ right here in Benguet,’’ he added.

However, he was worried to see the destruction of the natural soil microorganisms in the strawberry fields due to the massive use of inorganic fertilizers and agricultural chemicals.

‘‘Fortunately, it is not yet too late. The soil will be revived if the Benguet farmers will recall the basic of agriculture and start practicing it right now,’’ Yokomori reiterated.

The basic of agriculture pertains to soil enrichment, Yokomori noted. This is applying a sufficient quantity of organic compost to the soil so that soil microorganism activities may be enhanced and plants may grow easily.

‘‘If you do it, the soil never dies. Enrichment takes some years. But if

it is done, the soil produces the safest and tastiest vegetables in the entire Philippines. Consumers will feel safe in buying and eating your vegetables. The products will fetch you good income. The province of Benguet will enjoy the name ‘Salad Bowl of the Philippines’ forever,’’ he advised.

Training LT young farmersIn line with his dream, Masaki

trained La Trinidad young farmers in Japan for seven months since 2007 to 2010 under the Organic- Based Vegetable Production program.

In January 2010, the program was extended to Benguet farmers under the program ‘Safe Vegetable Promotion Project in Benguet.’

According to Juntaro Nakajima, Local Project Coordinator, 20 trainees were sent to Japan last year and are expected to return in November this year.

The purpose of the project is to ‘‘teach the organic way of farming to produce safe vegetable,’’ said Juntaro.

The training comprises the soil enrichment processes with the use of compost, charcoal, and Mokusako (wood vinegar). It will also include trainings on farming practices from production to marketing.

The interview for this year’s applicants was just concluded on September 22-23 at Ben Palispis Hall, Provincial Capitol.

According to Juntaro, the overall screening for applicants includes: municipal interview by Office of the Municipal Agriculture (OMAG); provincial interview; orientation and information dissemination; physical

test (farming operations); medical check-up; documents checking; and processing other needed documents.

Applicants will then undergo a one-day orientation, six-day basic lecture on Japanese culture and agriculture. Added to these trainings is a 180-hour Japanese Language Class which will be held on January 9 to March 11, 2012. Departure will be on April 11, 2012.

As of press time, 20 applicants out of 44 are undergoing the physical test which is expected to be finished on October 9.

“Be patient and be observant”One of the problems with

farmers today is that, ‘‘they are depending on chemicals which destroy the soil. If the soil is destroyed, the plant which needs the soil will not grow so good,’’ expressed Juntaro.

Murphy Divindo, a former trainee, attested that excessive use of chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers is one of the problems with farmers today.

Juntaro said that the soil enrichment system is not an instant solution but a process which will take effect for years. With this, he advised the farmers to ‘‘be patient and be observant.’’

‘‘Inayaden da nga adalin jay technique ti panag-aywan ti mula. Soil first before plants ta isu ti main (They should be patient in learning the technique of plant rearing. Soil first before plants because it’s the main), added Divindo.//

BY JENNELYN LICANG

CENRO updates Benguet land classification map

The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) is presently conducting the Forest Land Boundary Delineation (FLBD) in Benguet to update the province’s land classification map.

FLBD (Department Administrative Order 2008-24 Assessment and Delineation) is identifying forest areas from residential areas and agricultural areas. This is a nationwide wide project spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) which started 2008 nationwide but started in 2009 in Benguet.

According to Lunes Marcelo, forester II, only the Province of Benguet has not updated its map yet.

In this map, boundaries between public forest and developed areas of a certain province are indicated.

The updating of Land Classification will both benefit the government and the people of Benguet as well. According to CENRO-Wangal, if boundaries will be identified, the concerned agencies like DENR will know the forest they are going to maintain. On the other hand, there will also be an additional alienable and disposable land or A&D which can be released for titling.

After assessment, the forest lands identified on the latest land classification map which will be identified as residential and agricultural area on the on going FLBD can be released. The individuals who developed that certain forest land will also be able to apply for land titles. Also, the land valuation will be upgraded. Land which will be titled will be given corresponding taxes.

CENRO-Wangal’s jurisdictions are Tublay, Sablan, Kapangan, Tuba, Kibungan and La Trinidad. The rest are under the CENRO-Baguio.

As of press time, Tublay and

Sablan were already surveyed; Kapangan and Tuba is in progress. La Trinidad has progressed only 15% while Kibungan has not yet started.

According to Forester I Noeme Melecio of CENRO-Wangal, most of the forest lands in Beckel and Alno were converted to residential and agricultural area.

However, there is a limit in the declaration of A&D in agricultural areas. Soil and water conservation must be practiced in the said agricultural land such as terrace or Agro forestry practices so that the land will be conserved.

Melecio explained that the result of this survey will undergo several channels before the forest land converted as residential and agricultural land is declared as A&D area.

The result will be submitted first to DENR regional office for verification and be forwarded to the national office.

Congressman Ronald Cosalan will make a bill and present it to the congress for their approval. If the congress will approve the bill, the Land Classification Map will be updated.

Moreover, after the congress has approved the bill, there will be a final survey where monument or mohon will be installed which will serve as boundary marks.

“The government targets that the bill for the Land Classification Map should be approved by the end of this year. By the end of October 2010, this project should be completed here in Benguet,” Melecio added.

However, CENRO-Wangal admitted that due to rainy season and lack of resources like man power and vehicle, field work will not be completed this October but is expected to be finished by the end of this year.//

BY MARIE FE WANCE

NEWS

Photo exhibit launched to pay tribute to Ambuklao dam

With the theme, ‘‘A Snapshot of life: Celebrating Ambuklao’s Power to Renew,’’ different photos were showcased during the photo exhibit on September 26 to 30 at the Provincial Capitol as a tribute to the role of Ambuklao dam towards development.

The exhibit was organized by SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet, Inc., Cordillera Photographer’s and Videographers Press Corps, and Baguio Photographers’ Club in partnership with Benguet province and Studio 5 Design, Inc.

Mr. Canuto Alumit, Provincial Community Affairs Officer II said that the exhibit was about reminiscing the dam’s role as a tool for development to the lives of the people of Bokod.

According to the organizers, the exhibit showcased the winning photos from a recent photo contest held by SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet, Inc. among media practitioners and photography enthusiasts, as well as commissioned photos from Studio 5 Design, one of the pioneers in the Philippine graphic design industry.

‘‘These inspiring and astonishing

BY JENNELYN LICANG

photos depict the continuing impact of the revived hydroelectric power facility on its host communities, the environment, and the economy,’’ the organizers said.

The pictures were taken within and around the nearby communities of the Ambuklao power plant.

There were 26 participating artists and 35 artworks presented.

The program was inaugurated with ribbon cutting which took place on September 26 where Hon. Nestor Fongwan, Benguet Governor, and Mr. Emmanuel V. Rubio, President and CEO of SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet,

Inc. gave messages.In 2008, SN Aboitiz

Power (SNAP)-Benguet rehabilitated the Ambuklao hydroelectric power plant in Bokod and started operating in July 2011 with 105 mega-watts. It implements a stakeholder engagement program and corporate social responsibility projects

ranging from livelihood and eco-tourism, minor infrastructure, education and information technology, and health to promote indigenous culture, environment, and governance.

Calumit said that in some way, the exhibit has been an eye-opener

to the people of Bokod. ‘‘It can also remind them of the goodness of that dam since it gave them employment,’’ he added.

Brian, a Bokod resident, agrees with Calumit on the exhibit being an eye-opener because according to him, the pictures reflect the lives of the people of Bokod.

He added that the regeneration of the dam has greatly helped Bokod since employments, livelihood, and other economic programs for the municipality and the province were offered.

Brian further attested that they value the dam because it gives identity to their place, Bokod.//

Photos taken from the blog of ivan inares at www.ivanhenares.com


EditorialAG S H A N Community Newspaper

Wastes go expensive

The “wastes can be sold” statement is in a real qualm. True as it is maybe, but wastes need to be first “bought” before it can be “sold.”It is known that La Trinidad opened a sanitary land fill in Alno in January. However, it is said that it can only last for a short span of time because of too much collected garbage. The town accumulates around 70 tons of waste daily.

The growing population of La Trinidad makes waste problem severe. To address this, the municipal Mayor Greg Abalos Jr. bared in June the LGU’s plan to purchase the so-coveted super plasma decomposition technology or the Super Black Hole Technology from Japan worth P58 million. The technology is said to have the ability to manage around 10 tons of garbage within 24 hours. It is supposed to be in the municipality third week of September.

Before this plan, it can be remembered that Senate Committee on Climate Change Chair Loren Legarda files the Total Plastic Bag Ban Act on March 29, 2011. On the other hand, Baguio has long passed in 2007 a city ordinance which requires all supermarkets, groceries and retail establishments, groceries and retail establishments to use paper, cloth and weaved bags and other biodegradable containers instead of plastic bags. This ordinance was set for implementation in 2012.

A newspaper article in July states that Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan said that Baguio’s Bayong Ordinance (the city’s ordinance versus plastics) may be futile after all. He was quoted in the said article saying “There is no affordable material like plastic yet…even the weaved bag or bayong is costlier than plastic.”

It can now be deduced that addressing waste problem is too expensive. LT-LGU had to borrow millions from the Cooperative Bank of Benguet for the down payment of the technology.

These alternatives may be costly, however, this is a need that has to be addressed the soonest time possible.

Typhoon Mina has shown how urgent this need is. The trash slide that ended lives is so pathetic a sight that should not have been done had this problem been addressed earlier. It should be, because a life is costlier than any amount this world have.

Alternatives are already here. The need to execute it is the only problem. In choosing between these alternatives though, people in authority have to think which is practical and sustainable.

It is ironic that one is afraid of the costliness of the solution; costly but is surely sustainable while the other is ready to spend much for a solution that might not last long as it is susceptible to stop working one day.

As was mentioned earlier, life is costlier than the money we need to invest for the waste problem to be solved. Never wait for the worst disaster to happen.

The communities where we belong have long ways to travel to flourish. Nevertheless, for sure, these long ways can be shortened with cooperation and team work of the citizenry and the government alike.

Let’s all work and hope for that day when we will no longer fear trash slides; when we no longer will see garbage scattered all around. With all our hands willing to work on this dilemma, there is no reason that we will not reach a time when the fear of spending much for our own waste diminishes.

AGSHAN

Crowded, dirty, smelly, people pushing carts loaded with vegetable here and there, vegetable trucks parked head to tail, rotting vegetable excesses nearly everywhere, some dysfunctional facilities – this picture comes into my mind whenever I here of the La Trinidad Trading Post.

Benguet has been dubbed as the salad bowl of the Philippines as it is where majority of the vegetables being supplied to the different parts of the country originates. However, farmers behind this title have been enduring and losing much due to the state of the current trading post and current trading system in the local vegetable market.

The trading post is in a very, very bad shape and I believe that those who have seen it would agree to me. It seemed that it never had a brush of repair since its construction.

With the growing population is the greater demand for vegetables. As a result, more and more buyers and

farmers alike flock to the trading post to buy and sell vegetables. However, the current post can only accommodate enough that some farmers have to wait for long hours and sometime, even days just to be able to enter the trading area. Because of this, qualities of vegetables especially the perishable ones are being sacrificed, leading to decreased income for farmers.

Aside from the limited space, there are also facilities worth thousands of money which are not serving their purpose. In the documentary film “Food Trail,” by GMA Network which featured the journey of vegetables and other foods from farm to market, the only chiller at LTTP meant to preserve perishable veggies is not functioning and even if it is, it can’t accommodate all the vegetables in the post.

As if these are not enough burdens for farmers, the middlemen’s service as bridge between the dealers and the farmers seemed to be ‘overpaid’

at times. They get more than what their several hours’ work deserved. Farmers can’t do anything because ‘it is the way it is.’

With this present situation, the soon-to-rise state-of-the-art Agri-Pinoy Trading and Processing Center that will cover four hectares of the Strawberry Fields present a promising solution.

Dr. Violeta Salda, Chief Researcher in BSU who was one of those who conceptualized the project, said that the state-of-the-art trading facility will ensure the quality of vegetables in Benguet with its modernized post harvest technology. It will also provide spacious parking area for the vehicles, thereby avoiding long waiting hours.

Of the old and the newAlmira Bentadan

In the name of developmentRampant theft and robbery, bums

along the streets and overpass, pathetic children wearing craggy clothes- all because of poverty? It’s a common sight in the Philippines; a country rich of natural resources; a country that could have flourished to the highest height.

I bet every Filipino citizen is tired. Some may be tired of being a Filipino, some patriots may be just tired of being dubbed poor; of being seen too low because of Juan dela Cruz’s dearth.

This is a big reason why our Local Government Units are trying too hard to alleviate the situation. Though the real root is sometimes confusing, the vicious cycle of poverty tells a lot. Maybe, poverty alone is the cause or maybe, it’s just a symptom of the real cause.

Unemployment and underemployment are said to be two of the culprits that make the Filipino poorer. It is believed that employment plays a very

important role in the development of a community.

Just recently, the Department of Labor and Employment proposed a solution to La Trinidad-LGU. This is the National Skills Registry System; a webpage where unemployed and underemployed citizens can find hope of being found by an employer. As of now, the LGU has not decided about the proposal.

Before this proposal though, the LGU has been trying to create employment opportunities for the citizenry. They allowed big establishments to populate the municipality. The construction of Puregold-La Trinidad branch is one. They even bought Garden City Conference Center with such desire to offer people jobs.

However, we cannot deny the fact that our world is too competitive.

How ever vigilant the government is to help everybody, it all boils down to how competent a person is; or how chance favors him/her. The more a person has beauty, brain and brawn, the more he/she climbs higher than others. There always exists competition.

A nation is too wide to manage for global competitiveness when every member is aiming for personal good than national development. It is too tedious to make everybody in an entire country think of the common good most especially if the rulers themselves do not have a glimpse of what common good is all about.

It may be true that man is born

continue on page 35

continue on page 35

Dustless

Breaking the cycle

Mervalyn Oplas

ALMIRA P. BENTADANEditor-in-Chief

MERVALYN G. OPLASAssociate Editor

SHERIELYN B. BANGLIGFinancial Manager

BEN P. SEBIANO JR.Circulation Manager

NEWS EDITORS:Carmelita B. PacosJennelyn B. LicangRobeline T. Padsico FEATURE EDITORS:Cherry V. PotectanMarie Fe B. Wance

RESEARCH EDITORS:Jasmin P. KiasoNorren Joy A. Ancheta

JOHN GLEN S. SAROLGraphics Editor

Editorial Board

ANABELLE O. TOSTOSPhoto Journalist

Merry Joy C. DangatanCartoonist/Illustrator

Joshua C. AndresExternal Cartoonist

Ria D. WongExternal Graphics Editor

STAFF WRITERS:Manelyn S. AtasCarol B. Bag-ayanJollibee B. CalderonCarissa M. CallisenShamany B. Lapa-anJoanne Vhale C. MilanLomiba F. SakiwatRishie D. Sumayao

The Ibaloi term Agshan refers to the wooden stairs usually set for the main doors of a traditional Igorot hut. Thus, in the olden times, one needs to ascend first before one can enter inside. The paper adopted Agshan as its name because it fully represents the meaning of development- the writers in this paper believed in- a step by step process.

***The person’s views, ideas, and opinions presented here

do not necessarily reflect the paper as a whole.

FILMORE Y. AWASAdviser


OpinionAG S H A N Community Newspaper

Agent of Change

Changing the world is not an impossible dream to fulfill. If it’s our desire to reach that goal, we should then start to change ourselves. As a great man once said, ‘‘changing the world is changing yourself.’’

A friend of mine was very excited on their mission trip. They are going to teach DVBS in Ilocos Sur.

‘‘I’ll go there to change the world,’’ she thought. But when they arrived, she was astonished to know that she’s not there to bring out change but was there to be changed instead.

It was because she saw that the children in that place have worse situation than hers and she realized that she’s more blessed than them. Because of that, she’s able to release forgiveness to her mother. I believe that she went through that experience because God wants her to first experience change so that she’ll be able to bring out change in others. Indeed, we cannot give what we don’t have.

In our natural mind, it seemed impossible to achieve that dream but ‘‘the world is yet to see what God can do through an individual who is totally surrendered to Him’’(D.L. Moody). A small blot of ink on a handkerchief affected the whole of it. Small it may seem, it made a difference on the handkerchief. Likewise, the small changes in ourselves can affect our community. ‘‘Great things are products of small beginnings,’’ a maxim tells us.

An ordinary person can be used by God to do extraordinary things. We can see them on the lives of Peter, David, and other great men of God. Being a fisherman, God turned Peter to be a fisher of men, while David, a shepherd of sheep became a king, shepherding people. Their present situations and occupations prepared them for their higher calling. We also do not know where and when will God use us but as long as we please Him and desire to be used for His glory, we will see Him do great things more than we have imagined.

Sometimes, we miss the privilege of touching other people’s

Jennelyn Licang

lives because we participate on the problem instead of helping them solve the problem, and because we want the joy of receiving more than the greater joy of giving. As John F. Kennedy said, ‘‘Do not ask what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.’’

Each of us is under the process of change. We are all clay pots-on-process under the hands of our Master Potter. During a house construction, its foundation is first established then followed by the others until it will come out as a wonderful beautiful architecture. Likewise, we are also changed from one aspect to another until we become the person God wants us to be (if we allow Him to change us). Change is a lifetime subject we each need to pass.

I also believe that we can make a difference by sharing little acts of kindness- our smile, handshake, words of encouragement or even a tap on the back. We will be recompensed for everything we do in this life depending on our motives. If we do things with a pure motive, we will have an eternal reward. If it’s not out of a pure heart, we will receive our reward in this world (praise of men).

These acts of kindness may seem small and simple but we never know the impact they can do in the lives of others, even the warmth and tenderness they can give bring to their hearts. However, may we continue to do things out of our love for God, and out of the desire to share that love to others-not solely on the rewards we may gain so that at the end of the day, we will see ourselves making a difference in this world.//

Little victories: appreciation is the essence Carmelita Pacos

Nothing’s wrong with planning- setting VMGOs (Vision, Mission, Goal and Objectives), doing charts and even listing the pros and cons. But as we move along and we’re not careful enough, we tend to fall into a state of which other problems flow- insensitivity.

In our quest to achieve the goals that we (or others) set for us, we tend to become task-oriented and focus more, if not only, on the end than the means. In doing so, we miss out other things- ordinary as they seem but are essential nonetheless, along the way.

Minority View

I prefer to call such accomplishments as ‘little victories.’

When we become insensitive, not only we fail to notice ‘little victories’ but we tend to take it for granted as well. When we fail or when our standards are not met, our initial reaction is either frustration or acceptance. Honestly, more often than not, it is the former which is commonly displayed.

What to do then? Well, it really pays to appreciate things- big or small, ordinary or extraordinary. For when we

Young behind bars

It has been said. It has been heard. It has been claimed yet unfulfilled. Our national hero said it right: YOUTH IS THE HOPE OF THE MOTHERLAND. He had the confidence to state that the youth are the instruments for change because they are the blooming generations to take over the previous ones. But the question bugging me is are we living the way we are expected to be?

Juvenile justice had been a current issue as we hear about teenagers and kids caught into some forms of crimes. The issue of reducing the age limit of those under the juvenile justice was deliberated when an elementary student was accidentally killed by his fellow classmates inside their own classroom. His bereaved family falls undecided on what to do. Normally, justice would be a call but not that easy this time. If the age limit of children under the juvenile law will be lowered, what would become of our next generation?

Let me share a story I witnessed while on my way to school. A commotion occurred when a mother and son exchanged “garbage” words endlessly. The son readily pointed at his mother with much hatred as he walked away cursing. He even attempted to throw a handful piece of cracked cement towards her angry mother. He got near her as if ready to give his strongest shot but just withdrew, together with his friends, while still holding the cement. The mother was just left shouting amidst the noisy crowd.

Is it really the generation we are into right now? Will there come a time that not even one will respect

his own parent? Can we just hurt them as if they’re not the individuals who reared us while we were still fragile? But will the son be that rebellious against his own mom?

But looking at the bigger picture behind the whole scenario, what pushed the kid to do such violent behavior? Should we look at the crime alone without even considering the root cause? Is it really the child’s fault? “Ngem nu panunutem, haan met nga aramiden dagita uub-bing ti kasta nu talaga nga nababantayan da,” was my mother’s comment upon hearing the reports of juvenile crimes aired on the radio. Furthermore, Marianne Murdoch-Vermjs, on a personal experience regarding juvenile justice in the Philippines, stated that the Government and NGOs in general are not aware of the fact that the problem of children in conflict with the law is related social problems.

Vermjs added that when dealing with children in conflict with the law, we are dealing with children who had a bad start in life with circumstances and experiences very difficult to accept. Many who are abandoned, neglected, abused, exposed to drugs are in marginal circumstances and at social risk. The solution to the problem of controlling juvenile delinquency is not incarceration but good education and social training, thus, emphasizing prevention and rehabilitation.

Prevention of juvenile delinquency can be attended through the role of different sectors as stated in the act Juvenile Justice and Welfare of 2006. The family

Cherry Potectan

Wisdom and the bearded man

shall be responsible for the primary nurturing and rearing of children which is critical in delinquency prevention. Our childhood are shaped and formed in our homes. It is where our first teachers-parents, taught us the moral values and lessons that we should apply outside our premises. To quote a pastor, “our youthful stage is where a person forms his personal values.

Educational institutions shall also work together with families, community organizations and agencies in prevention of teen crimes and in the rehabilitation and integration of child in conflict with the law. Schools shall provide adequate, necessary and individualized educational schemes for children manifesting difficult behaviors.

Mass media also play an active role in promotion of child rights and delinquency by relaying messages through balanced approach since children nowadays are exposed to a lot of media outlets such as print, television, internet and radio.

Filipino children are no longer just a mouth to feed or just a soul to care for, but a mind to nurture as well. It’s not enough to fill a child’s desire just to stop his wailing but it’s really important to also invest for proper child rearing since today’s children are more delicate with our kind of environment. Let’s not let the children be sealed behind bars of corrupted minds.//

Innovative will

When I was young, I had been associating wisdom with people who have white hair and long beard. In our cultural communities, elders are respected as teacher, adviser and mediator, as I’ve seen their presence during marriage talks, settling disputes or troubles. Some of our papangoan (elders) did not even receive formal education but their opinion or advice is highly sought. That, I think, is because elders lived longer than us so they have bunches of experiences to share. Also the fact that we respect someone who is older than us is one of the identities of Filipinos.

Speaking of sharing, T.s. Eliot, a poet and critic, posed a question, “Where is wisdom lost in knowledge and where is knowledge lost in information?” This question evolves on the value of sharing

and applying what we know.Wisdom is the value-laden

application of knowledge. People always have the opportunity to become wise but it may not come to pass if the knowledge they have is not applied. But how about those who don’t have the chance to do so? That is where sharing comes in the picture. Surely, there are others (like me) who need what others discovered or what they know. So wisdom is sharing.

Likewise with knowledge, what’s the use of having it if it is not applied? But of course attached with it is responsibility. If you have heard of what they say, “the knowledge you have will rust in your mind if you don’t use it or share with others.”

I admire institutions who promote research because it stems from the will to innovate something,

do, we realize how blessed we really are. We learn to become grateful of what we have and what we have been enabled to accomplish- success or not.

When we appreciate, a new, fresh and diverse outlook is developed within us. We learn to become more thankful and less complaining. We begin to see things (we had taken for granted before) and learn to really value them.

Special thanks to Mamu and Ate Cherry for their invaluable support. With them, I am able to appreciate my “little victories.”

OPINION

Jasmin Kiaso

continue on page 35

Sleepless icon

Seeing in Perspective


It became almost a norm for us when we pass through the overpass, or walk along the streets, to see beggars in any form-a blind man singing or playing a musical instrument with a can beside him, a mother with a child wearing dirty clothes and reaching a hand. Everyday encounter with such makes it a common thing.

For some, these people may be a disturbance or hindrance along the way. They try their best to get rid of them- to avoid skin contact with them like they have contagious diseases. Others pretend they did not see any one along their way so they bump them harshly or kick them “unintentionally,” and others just yell at them incessantly.

Oftentimes, these individuals encounter and experience criticisms, m i s u n d e r s t a n d i n g , discrimination and cruelty from other people.This maybe because of the reasons and principles people have. It is easier to throw judgements than to understand. This

is always a predicament for the “normal” person.

However, the situation tends to reverse every now and then. Criticism always comes first than understanding.

Whatever is the reason to criticize, discriminate or judge these people, we have to put in mind that they also have reasons to beg rather than work; reasons that we seldom know or we may not care to know at all.

Further, the fact that it is better for them to beg for whatever other people can give than to be thieves, remains.Besides, we don’t even know what situation they are into. We don’t know every story behind those clothes to judge them that early. We can’t feel what they truly feel inside either. Truly, people easily judge other persons than criticize their own selves.

On the same way, when at a glance to these beggars, the image that public conceive in their minds is another problem of the government in general. With that, people end up blaming someone or some

people out there who in reality are not related to such thing. Worst, the government or the administration was blamed for not taking an action to solve these “problems” of the nation.

Nevertheless, these people actually gave a lot of life-lessons to us, only, that’s up to us to deliberate. If and only we are also like them, then we might fully understand their situation, but, even if we are not, we can, if and only if we let ourselves to.

Respect, concern and love are not expensive to share. Going beyond what the eyes can see imparts a significant difference in our attitude towards fellowmen.//

Along the roads and sidewalks

The UNFOLDING of TIME: Will the youth of today bring change for tomorrow?

I wonder what was on Rizal’s mind when he said that the youths are the hope of the father land considering that he said these words during the Spanish regime where Filipino’s rights were curtailed and most were living behind the shadow of fear and ignorance.

Fear, because despite the veracity that the Spaniards were actually treating them like slaves, only few got the guts to continue what Lapu-Lapu had done in little Mactan Island. Or maybe if I am wrong, then why did the Spaniards become our masters for 300 long and cruel years?

Ignorance, I say, for they turned their backs from their culture and embraced the Spanish ways just to blend in.

Anyway, I am just

really curious with these inspiring words of our national hero. Let me ask you, do you really believe that we, the youths are hope of this nation?

If you see youths drinking and smoking, taking drugs or involved in gang wars, will you still put your hopes on us? I hope before you will answer these questions, reflect first on the factual scenario.

The truth is this infectious statement became stereotype. Everybody wants to perceive that every youth can do something for the betterment of the nation and if they see some youths doing something not in line with Rizal’s statement, the question “Is this what they call hope of the fatherland?” always comes out.

But what may you (elders)

do to help us in making Rizal’s dream a reality? We need people to emulate; people who will guide us and shower us with wisdom of discerning what is appropriate and what is not.

But what if during our younger years, what we see and experience is blatant twists of what is suppose to be right?

We do not have experience but we do read our history. And every bad or good deed that elders are doing now, may it be in the family, workplace or anywhere, will become a history and soon they will become history as well. In simplest parlance, we youths today are future, that makes us the “hope of the fatherland”.

However, to my fellow youth, let me share a story of a very young king who was able

to govern Jerusalem like an adult despite his family’s bad record.

Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem for 31 years. Josiah’s grand-father was Manasseh; an evil king.

King Josiah’s father was Amon, who continued the evil practices of Manasseh. Young Josiah grew up witnessing evil deeds and these were the examples he should imitate yet he reigned as a good king. The encouraging lesson here is that one can be raised in the worst possible environment but can CHOOSE to do good deeds. Young Josiah learned from his Grand father and father’s history.

OUR PLEA: Although we are young, it doesn’t mean that we will not grow old. In our wrong doings, condemn us

Crossing the LT’s streets: A risk?

“Oh my gosh, madik pay nga matay!” this is what I always utter to myself every time I cross the road. “Racing cars” scare me. This has always been my fear since my first year in college especially when crossing the road alone.

Whenever I think of accidents, I remember the fading pedestrian lanes. There had been records of accident that happened along the streets of La Trinidad because of this. People crossing were hit by these fast-speed cars.

Last July, two students were hit by a motorcycle while crossing the road at the last gate area of Benguet State University. Luckily (thank God), they were not hurt seriously.

In this event, I wondered who’s to be blame. Is it the recklessness of the students or the driver? Is it the absence of pedestrian lane or the fading lines of these lanes?

These questions can be answered if you happen to observe the last gate area of BSU. Did you observe the missing art of the road? Have you noticed if the basis for crossing was present in the area? Well, as a student of La Trinidad for almost three years, I am aware that a pedestrian lane does not exist in the area.

It is not only in that area where you can observe the absence of pedestrian lanes. If you go to the market, Tiongsan , Km.3 and other parts of La Trinidad where people usually gather, you will see that almost no pedestrian lanes exist because the peeling off of paints faded the lanes.

On the part of the pedestrians, how would you identify the right place to cross if a sign for crossing does not exist? Pedestrian lanes are the basis for people where to cross in order to avoid jay walking and in order to secure their safety. Thus, these must be re-painted and given attention by the concerned officials.

To those who are in charge of the fading pedestrian lanes (DPWH), may you do your part also. To the people around, let’s be responsible enough to cross at the proper crossing lanes. To the reckless drivers, drive safely and cautiously. And to those indicators of who (crossers) or which (cars) to go first, your presence is badly needed.

Avoiding road accidents is easy if only we are responsible and cooperation among all the members of the community is present.//

OPINION

Norren Joy Ancheta

Robeline Padsico

Marie Fe Wancenot. Rebuke us with love and teach us to value wisdom. In the Book of Proverbs it says, “Teach a child in a way he should grow and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

To my fellow young people, our time to shine will come, we need not to rush. For now, let us learn everything we should learn. Observe the current government, develop a constructive criticism attitude and if someday, God will grant us authority to govern or rule this country, we will not repeat the same mistakes that we have observed and apply what we have learned in our younger days. For now, let us enjoy our life; enjoy life in a wholesome manner.

Let us give life to the words of our national hero.//

Front View Highly recommended


FEATUREAG S H A N Community Newspaper

It all startedYou may not know his name

and you may say that you never saw him, but actually, you did.

Anyone who ever passed the road from La Trinidad to Baguio City has seen this simple man with a smiling notable face dubbed as “Manong Basahan” and known to some as “Tonton”.

We see him everyday standing at the center of the road along Km. 4, La Trinidad and Magsaysay with his lifted hand holding a basahan (kitchen rugs/potholder) under the inevitable heat of the sun if not the cold raindrops.

Who is this man? I am lucky enough to meet

this man beside the Street of Cruz in his boarding house on a windy afternoon, August 8, this year. Having a goal of narrating one’s life that may touch others’ lives, I approached him.

He is a native of Bauang, La Union and had finished his high school in the same province. However, because of financial problems, he wasn’t able to continue his studies.

When I asked how he came to be a vendor of rugs, he replied in Ilocano, “It’s not that easy, this is not my first job.” He said that he found his way to the mountainous province of Benguet and worked as a construction worker for a year.

I asked again, “So after one year in construction, you decided now to sell rugs?” He smiled and said, “No, I worked as a komboy (one who works in a vegetable market) in Cruz and in La Trinidad Trading Post for 13 years since 1992.” He also stated that besides being a komboy, he also worked as a helper in delivering vegetables to Manila, receiving Php 300 to Php 350 per day as his wage on both jobs.

In 2000, a blessing in disguise was set upon him when he observed something along

the busy streets of Manila. During a travel in Manila, he was observing several teenagers who sell rugs along the street when an idea flashed into his mind. He was encouraged to try that same business in La Trinidad. He was strongly convinced that it would be possible, thinking of “isu pay.” Yes, he did! It is indeed the start of it.

He used an initial capital of Php350 to buy 500 pieces of rugs on his return to Manila. Kuya Tonton started selling rugs along the street of La Trinidad where he honestly said that mixed feelings are within him. “I feel a little bit shy and uncomfortable standing at first to sell rugs in the center of the street but with the thought that it’s not an illegal business, I’m able to tolerate it,” he laughingly described.

One piece of rug costs 50 cents that time. His routine begins at 5:30 am selling rugs until 7:00 am while he works as a komboy from 7:00 am to 11:00 am. He then resumes selling rugs in the afternoon.

From 2000 to 2010, his profit comes from selling rugs and from working as a part time komboy.

Just this year, he decided to concentrate and focus on selling rugs. He can dispose 2,000 pieces a day now that he is selling rugs full time. He has this first supplier in Caloocan where he buys the products. Later, he got the product in Bulacan but decided to stick permanently to another supplier back in Caloocan. According to him, his supplier allowed him to have a pay-it-later basis because of the trust and good relationship they share for almost three years.

From humble beginnings, his business became successful. Different establishments like the University of Cordillera, some gasoline stations, and some printing presses order from him.

One piece of rug that he sells costs 1.25 pesos which is cheaper compared to others.

“Honestly, I always answer whoever asked for my profit that I receive an amount of 300 pesos

BY BEN SEBIANO Sustaining family needs through selling rugs

but actually, I earned 500 Php. and above,” he humbly replied when I asked how much he earns in a day.

Meanwhile, Kuya Tonton is a family man. He is married to Virginia, a native of Bulacan. His wife and his four children permanently live in Bulacan while he does business in the province of Pines. His eldest finished high school and took his first semester in College at the University of Baguio. He didn’t continue his

studies though. The other two are in high school and grade school, respectively while the youngest is still two years old.

“Not to boast but I have used some of my earnings in putting up our house in Bulacan,” Kuya Tonton said.

He also proudly showed his certificate as a member of the Philippine Red Cross and as an awardee for being a Galloner, one

who donates blood for many lives in Benguet General Hospital and Baguio General Hospital.

He believes that trust given to us must be cherished as he also said that “Uray basit nga birok, no aywanam, dumakkel.”

His real name is Antonio G. Carreon, 37 years old.//

WHEN HE TRIED

“Uray basit nga birok, no aywanam, dumakkel.”


The Inexplicable Master’s GardenGlare and it glares at you

FEATURE

Thousands (or millions) of years ago, the first man and woman stayed in a garden, maybe that mystifying garden men now never saw. It is the Garden of Eden. Then they were brought to a lesser form of world because of violating the rule of their Creator. Nevertheless, this world is good, better than the world we have now. Man has always been given the opportunity to live in a better place. However, it became man’s nature to destroy then rebuild after the consequences are at hand. This is the irony Mother Nature has to tolerate about the most rational being on earth.

One of the rebuilding mechanisms of man is Organic Agriculture. Man has been abusive of using chemicals in the agriculture industry years ago. Today, man is trying to regain the lost nutrients of the land.

Engaging in Organic Agriculture though is not a piece-of-cake task. Rebuilding really, after the destruction, doubles, triples or more the taskswhich could have been easier decades ago. Now, take a look at how another Garden was built for Organic Agriculture to be truly organic.Entering the Master’s Garden

I’m taking you to a tour.

We’ll have a ride, almost 45 minutes to an hour to this part in Lamtang, La Trinidad, Benguet.

Arriving, a spread of Bermuda grass paves the way to a uniquely designed fortress for the skimpy vegetables most sought by the health-conscious populace-Organic Vegetables. We would first arrive at a small open “room” where composts are being processed. There is an old shredder (the machine used to grind plants for composting). Then we’ll realize, the ‘house’ is a series of open ‘rooms’.

The next ‘room’ is where seedlings, days-old, were planted in expensive containers. In the next ‘room’, seedlings, a day or so older than the 2nd room seedlings, planted still in expensive containers. We’ll notice another shredder newer to look at than the one we saw in the first ‘room’. While we progress, we’ll see plants which grew bigger than the plants we saw in the 2nd ‘room’. They are placed in bigger pots. The progress goes next ‘room’, next ‘room’ and next ‘room’.

After passing through several rooms, we’ll see a rectangular shelter with only a roof made of

plastic cellophane sheltering several vegetables. The Master calls it “rain shelter”. That, obviously, is because it shelters plants from big raindrops that may uproot the fragile plants.More wisely built shelters

Going to the Master’s house some meters below, we won’t help but look at a wall with protruded green squares we can’t see what is there. Master explains they’re strawberries. “Typhoon destroyed the cemented wall then. It collapsed. When we reconstructed, I thought of utilizing the space. So we planted organic strawberries on the green squares.”

We’ll pass through the Master’s house. Lots of rain shelters are at sight down. Plants are there. The sides of the beds are cemented. The posts of the shelter are metals. We’d pass through four terraces still divided into smaller terraces. Lots of Organic Vegetables are there such as sugar beets, pipino, tomatoes, celery, and lettuce. The Master says “the reason why the shelter was built as a rain shelter instead of a green house fully-covered is for elements to freely come and freely go.” He means that if the ‘elements’

are parasitic; they won’t be trapped inside to destroy the vegetables.

”Every week, these vegetables are harvested. A square meter gives me almost a thousand kilo in a year. Organic Vegetables cost much. So I was able to gain back what I spent in the construction of this shelter,” the Master says.

“Farming is not difficult at all. However, no one wants to be a farmer. Why? Farmers’ children saw their parents’ labor in vain because of the traditional way of farming. In fact farming is good. Just be innovative and creative.” We hear the Master say.

A water falls with abundant water can be seen opposite the garden. It’s as if it’s saying, “Hey, life is abundant.” Surrounding the falls are plants which seem untouched.The Master

You might be wondering about the Master of this inexplicable garden. He is a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at the University of the Philippines-Los Baños. He used this degree

in coming up with the Master’s Garden. He improved the soil in the area by mixing compost, animal manure, sawdust, and leaf moulds. However, he realized that using compost is much better than the others which is why he uses compost now.

In fact, the Master received his Gawad Saka Award Trophy at Malacañang for being an Outstanding Organic Farmer last May 23, 2011.

He opens his farm for learning and agri-tourism where he shares his knowledge for interested farmers and tourists.

Meet the master: Mr. Ambrosio “Pat” Acosta.//


L E

Each year, a certain day is declared a national holiday, not to commemorate a hero’s death or observe any historical event but to join our Muslim brothers as they celebrate the last day of their month-long fasting – Ramadan.

However, as we enjoy the holiday, do we know what Ramadan is? Do we know why our Muslim brothers spend a month without eating and drinking during day time?Understanding Ramadan

“Ramadan is the month in which was sent down the Qur’an, as a guide to mankind... So everyone present...should spend it in fasting...” (Al-Baqarah, Q 2:185)

Ramadan is the ninth day in the Islamic lunar calendar which

lasts for 29 or 30 days. Muslims believed that it was the month when the Qur’an, holy book for Muslims, was handed down to Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).

According to Imam (Muslim leader) Bedejim Abdullah, Muslims devote Ramadan on praying, reading the Qur’an, giving charity to the poor and staying in the Mosque to pray. Aside from these, Muslims also spend Ramadan with fasting during day time.

During the last ten nights of Ramadan, Muslims perform itikaf or the retreat to the Mosque where they devote the time to pray and to study Islam.

Furthermore, during the last ten nights, Muslims wake up in the early morning, usually at around two am

Lessons learned from

BY MARIE FE WANCE

Behind his vibrant laughter is unspoken pain, but behind the pain is the courage to forgive, forget and move on.

Let me share to you the story of a newly found friend I met this year when we just moved into our new boarding house where he is also boarding.

He is a cheerful person; he sports laughter so full of life that even the faintest trace of a painful past can’t be seen. One night, I overheard him recalling his experience to one of our board mates. Curiosity got the better of me so I grabbed my pen and dug for the whole story. Allow me to share a story from afar.

Kuya Bubot (his nickname) is a native of Kibungan, Benguet and the middle child of their family.

He was barely 16, a second year high school student of Kibungan National Highschool, when he first met Sheryl Ann,

18 years old and a native of Mt. Province, and fell in love with her.

It was December, just after their second grading period, when he decided to quit his studies and live with her.

After a year, Sheryl gave birth to a baby boy. With their growing number, Kuya Bubot decided to build their own house. He doubled his effort to give his family a good life. He entered a lot of work, legal and illegal. He became a marijuana dealer and an illegal logger. When he was 18, Sheryl gave birth to their second child, a baby girl.

On their sixth year together, Sheryl left him for another man. All dreams were shattered for him that time. He was left with two little children to look after.

Instantly, the love he felt for Sheryl turned to hatred. He was so hurt that he burnt all the things she left behind, including her clothes and pictures. He also

tried to burn their half-finished house but his father stopped him.

To forget, he often hiked to the mountains near their house and stayed there for two to three days until his father fetch him. With his ordeal, his parents and siblings never abandoned him.

He was already 21 years old when he decided to continue his studies. Fortunately, the school allowed him to enroll as a third year high school student although he had not finished his second year. He graduated in high school at the age of 23.

The incident that has caused him so much pain was four years ago but he said he had not forgotten how it nearly destroyed his life. He said he remembered still the pain of Sheryl’s betrayal.

“I have given her all my time, love, sacrifice, everything and it has just gone to nothing. It’s not easy to forget the pain I

have suffered,” he said when he was asked how he is doing now.

He added that moving on is very hard but he needs to be strong and go on living for the sake of his children. He is currently studying at King’s College of the Philippines and all he wanted now is to finish his degree and look for a permanent job.

At the end of his story, he wisely said, “It’s not wrong to love but never abuse yourself when it comes to it. Always leave something for yourself. Never, ever destroy your studies because of love. Think of your parent’s sacrifices first.”

Indeed, to suffer pain is hard but to forgive is sweet.//

to pray. Another prayer, Tarawih, is also conducted from 8 pm to 9 pm.

The last ten days is also spent giving charity to the poor.Fasting on Ramadan

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. This is a form of worship practiced during Ramadan. It shows the obedience of Muslims to the words of Allah in the Qur’an, following the traditions of the prophets; strengthens character and good will; promotes good health; and unifies the Muslims, among others.

There are two kinds of fasting namely the physical and spiritual abstinence. Physical abstinence is the abstinence from foods and drinks, and sexual intercourse during the day while spiritual

abstinence is refraining from thinking, saying and doing bad or evil things.

Physical abstinence starts from the pre-dawn meal (Sahur) where Muslims usually eat healthy, heavy meals to sustain themselves throughout the day. It ends after sunset, where Muslims break the fast (Iftar) traditionally with water or dates (if unavailable, any fruits or sweets are accepted). After the breaking of the fast is a prayer before the usual dinner.

Imam Abdullah identified the first few days of Ramadan as the hardest part. “The body is still coping with fasting,” he said.

Meanwhile, though fasting during Ramadan is obligatory to Muslims, there are some exemptions. Temporarily sick people, lactating

FEATURE

Ramadan: A month of fastingUnderstanding our Muslim Brothers

mothers, pregnant women, terminally ill, menstruating women, post natal women and people on travel are exempted from fasting. However, they are required to make up for the number of days that they have missed when they are already capable to do so.

Children are also excused from fasting though they are being trained to fast. When they reach puberty, they are already obliged to join in fasting.Eid’l fitr

At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid’l fitr or the feast of the breaking of the fast which is the culmination of the whole fasting month. This signals the beginning of a new month.

In the early morning, Muslims gather together for a collective prayer and homily which lasts for more or less one hour. After that, they spend the time eating together as a family or visiting relatives.

“The feeling is the same when you (Christians) celebrate Christmas. There is a feeling of forgiveness. It (Eid’l fitr) is the fulfilment of spiritual obligation to the Lord. It is also a moment of get together for families,” Joanie Haramin, a Muslim, shares.//

BY ALMIRA BENTADAN

Phot

o ta

ken

at B

agui

o G

rand

Mos

que

by S

herie

lyn

Bang

lig


The SIX-day NATURAL removal of gallstonesBY ROBELINE PADSICO

Cases of gallstones (bato sa apdo) is common nowadays. Doctors usually recommend surgery as the best solution.

However, there is a natural way of removing gallstones which had already saved patients from losing their entire gall bladder.

Gallstones are formed when some bile salts (“soapy” substances) which are stored in the gallbladder are left. These bile salts become stones that often contain enough amount of cholesterol. These stones cause the gallbladder’s inflammation if the muscular gallbladder tries to push them out.

One of the symptoms of having gallstones is the feeling of bloatedness after a heavy meal. It feels like the food can’t be digested. If it gets more serious, a person will suffer pain in the liver area.

Gallstones can be removed through this natural process researched and recommended by Dr. Lai Chiu Nan, a Taiwanese chemistry doctorate holder and former cancer researcher in one of America’s top cancer research institutions:

1. For the first five days, drink at least four glasses of apple juice a day. Either freshly squeezed or packaged apple juice (Motts) will do. If not, eat four or five apples a day. Apple juice softens the gallstones. Within these days, eat just enough, not too much or too less.

2. On the sixth day, avoid taking food after 2 pm up to dinner but take your breakfast and lunch as usual. It’s also okay to drink water or other light fluids at night, but not, for example, heavy soups like macaroni. Also, don’t eat colored foods like green leafy vegetables.

3. At 6 pm, take a teaspoon of Epsom salt (magnesium sulphate) with a glass of warm water. (Tip: Buy the Epsom Salt before starting this procedure. This is obtained at any drugstore or supermarket).

4. At 8 pm, repeat the same procedure for Epsom salt to open the gallbladder ducts.

5. At 10 pm, take half cup olive oil (or sesame oil) with half cup fresh lemon juice. Mix it well and drink. The oil smoothens or makes the stones greasy for an easier removal.

6. After this, sleep or at least lie down and rest. Do not engage in any physical activity.

For the next morning, spend your day near the toilet and find floating green stones in your stools.

Dr. Chiu Nan pointed out that the green stones look like a crystal or a jade. Some people who have tried

the natural way process counted the green stones which usually reached up to 100. She recommended doing these procedures once a year.

There are gallstone victims who were thankful of this process because they were saved from surgeries. Aside from the money saved, these patients had also gained good health without taking medicines.

Cristita Giong-an, a housewife and a gallstone patient said that she used this natural process and it was successful indeed.

Michelle Pio, a student and another gallstone patient, added that this process minimizes gallstones and is good in cleansing the internal organs. “I’m a multiple gallstone patient but when I took my second ultrasound, the stones became smaller, from 4.8-3.2 centimeter,” she said.

FEATURE

Dr. Chiu Nan reminded that even if we don’t have any symptom of having gallstones, we can still undergo this process to cleanse our gall bladder. It is because naturally, we all have gallstones which are either big or small and either many or few.

We must bear in mind that our health is our wealth. There’s nothing to lose in trying this natural way of gallstone removal.

The choice is yours; a surgery or the natural way?//

Igorots : from the Mountains to the World Wide WebBefore, people use their

dictionaries or journals to express their emotions, aspirations, dreams, thoughts, ideas and opinions on things around them. These journals or diaries are only exclusive to the writer himself or to few people whom he or she trusts. But now, almost everything has changed.

Inventions are everywhere; some of such are computer and internet. The invention of these led to a world of upgraded communication. With thousand possible ways of communicating using the internet and computer, blogging is one of them.

Blog by definition is a web page that serves as a publicly accessible personal journal for an individual and is typically updated every now and then. Blogs are being controlled by a blogger, who sifts and decides what information

interests him and what he thinks is worth sharing. Most of the time, these blogs reflect the personality and cultural background of the author.

Aside from being a popular means of communicating about the issues, rumors and scandals of television and political icons, blog is used by some bloggers as a site to discuss cultural and social issues. This is proven on the study of Athalia Tulay, a Development Communication graduate, about a blog site entitled Sagada-Igorot.com.

Sagada-Igorot.com for instance, is a blog that packages and discusses the culture and other societal issues that concern the people of Sagada, Mt. Province and the entire Igorot region or the Cordillera. It is being maintained by Kamulo, a native of Mt. Province

and an IT consultant based in Illinois, Chicago.

This blog is generally created as a means of communicating the blogger’s and reader’s experiences, reactions, feedbacks and opposition to any misconceptions regarding the Igorots and their culture.

Sagada-Igorot.com is divided into two main sections. The first is “Sagada Section” which talks mainly about things and happenings in Sagada. This section contains the following: Sagada Folk Stories, Sagada in the News, Sagada Issues, Sagada locals, Sagada Memories, Sagada Song and Sagada Websites or Blogs.

The second main section is the Igorot People Section which discusses the experiences of Igorot people in nine different topics.

The first topic is the Igorot Discrimination that discusses the

BY ANABELLE TOSTOS

discriminatory and stereotyping experiences they (Igorots) had in their environmental and institutional exposures. One of the best examples is the issue about Candy Pangilinan, a Filipino actress, who claims that she is not an Igorot but a human being.

Igorot Dances describes the cultural dances of the different Igorot Tribes and shows how they are performed through videos and photos posted in the section while Igorot Ethnic Groups talks about the history and background of each Igorot tribe. These Igorot tribes are grouped into six ethno-linguistic groups which are Bontoc, Ibaloi, Ifugao, Isneg, Kalinga and the Kankana-ey.

On the other hand, Igorot Events describes the significant events and dates of celebrations of the different Igorot tribes within the

Cordillera and how they do it. This page also includes the Panagbenga Celebration in Baguio and others.

The fifth is the Igorot Identity which discusses issues Igorot discriminations and how Igorots cope and deal with such discriminations.

Meanwhile, Igorot Recipe features various Igorot recipes and how they are prepared and cooked. Some of the featured Igorot menus are pinikpikan and etag.

Igorot Land News on the other hand, updates readers with the achievements, successes, calamities encountered or any happenings that concern the Cordilleran people. These updates are not only for those who stay in the region or in the country, but also those who are out of the country.

Also, Igorot in the News highlights the Cordillerans who made a name in the local, national and international scope while Igorot Worldwide talks about the experiences and stories of Igorots outside the Philippines.

This is indeed a big help for the Igorots to know more about their culture and for the people from different cultures who can access the site to understand, appreciate and be informed about Igorot’s unique culture.

The said site, during its early operation, won the Filipino blog of the week for two straight weeks and is now a Hall of Famer. This is also one of the highest ranked among search engine results of queries on “Sagada” and “Igorot”.

For more information of the blog, just visit http:Sagada-Igorot.blogspot.com.//

This is the blog feature of the sagada-igorot.com


A Wonderful Breakfast

The above statement can be your guiding principle in planning your meals. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and it is the first meal after several hours of no food intake for the entire night. It is the meal that should provide the energy to start the day with.

Morning meals should be rich not only in carbohydrates, protein and fats alone but should also contain combinations of the macro and micro nutrients for the body. A well- balanced, heavy breakfast supplies the body with the needed energy that will keep an individual awake, energetic and full of life the whole day.

On weekday mornings, family members are usually in a rush: children leave for school while the parents report to work. During these days, it would be best if breakfast is something that can easily be wrapped and eaten in school or in the office. Here are some factors that must be considered when preparing breakfast meals based on “A Series on Filipino Money-making Ventures, Technology and Home Economics”:

VARIETY. Despite the time constraints, breakfast serving should still be appealing in the taste and appearance to the diner. Breakfast need not be just fried, cold cuts. The homemaker can also serve instant noodles, reheated leftovers from last night’s dinner, arroz caldo, pan de sal, or sliced bread topped with ground meat sautéed in spaghetti sauce; fruit mix like sliced bananas and mangoes or French toast.

FOOD PREFERENCE. Nutritious food that does not have an appealing appearance or taste will be put to waste if not eaten. Dried fish, for example, is not appealing to children. Oat meal and cereals are generally not popular breakfast dishes among Filipinos.

ADVANCED PLANNING. When the breakfast menu has been planned for a whole week or a period of days, then the homemaker will be ready with the ingredients and will be able to fix the schedule for preparing the food. This will minimize the confusion and early morning stress associated with breakfast preparations.

“Breakfast meal is very important to keep us going. Six hours fast should be the maximum of non-food intake so as not to reduce the nutrients in our blood level that keep our body to function well,” said Marie Anne R. Rulla, a nutritionist and dietician from the Department of Human Nutrition and Foods.

She added that in preparing breakfast meals, variety must also cater for a well-balanced meal rather than to touch the principle of variety alone. Furthermore, food preference is greatly influenced by mood. Some will just prefer to have coffee, bread, and cereal or oat meal while some would prefer not to take any meal. Advanced meal planning on the other hand is a good strategy but there are some instances that not all would like the meal prepared. It is still better to cook a breakfast meal that is moderate, varied and well-balanced.

She even stressed that eating beyond 8AM is already a midmorning snack rather than a breakfast meal. “Usual times for breakfast are normally until 8AM. Take a heavy meal before starting your day to keep you going. Always be reminded to EAT BY THE CLOCK,” says she.

HOW TO PREPARE A BREAKFAST MENU In her column in Food Magazine, Sanirose S. Orbeta, clinical

nutritionist cited the importance of having breakfast. As also approved by Ma’am Rulla, studies show that one is able to concentrate and perform his work better when he eats a morning meal. People who don’t eat breakfast are unable to do physical and mental work by the late morning hours. Students who skip breakfast don’t perform well in school.

When preparing a breakfast menu, make sure to serve foods rich in nutrients. Some combinations of healthy breakfast would be: 1. Fruits, sausages, egg, rice and juice; 2. Tapa or tocino, egg, rice and juice; 3. Oatmeal, cereal and milk; 4. Rice, fish and juice then 5. Pancakes and juice.

For further application on the principles of meal planning, here is a simple breakfast menu for a whole week:

FEATURE

Though breakfast is stressed, lunch is needed to keep us going for the rest of the day so we can take a moderately- sized meal. For dinner, it is also recommended to take a very light meal because the body slows down its activity when we are sleeping. This means that we need fewer calories. We gain weight very fast when we consume large amounts of food during dinner and eating midnight snacks because food are stored as fats instead of being converted into energy. Teenagers, most especially, often complain that they get hungry at the middle of the night if they don’t eat huge dinner meals. This may be corrected if one eats a full, hearty breakfast. “It is also possible not to eat dinner meals if an individual takes a snack in the afternoon,” added Rulla.

BY CHERRY POTECTAN

For breakfast, eat like a king.For lunch, eat like a queen.

For dinner, eat like a pauper.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday SundayPapaya Mango Papaya Mango Bananas BananaFried tinapa

Corned beef

Pork tocino Fried tuyo Hotdog with mayo

sardines Longganisa

Tomato slices

Fried eggs Achara Fried eggplant

Fried rice Pan de sal Fried rice Fried rice Hot buns Rice or pan de sal

Fried rice

Hot chocolate

Pineapple juice

Water Hot chocolate

Hot chocolate

juice Hot chocolate


People power has been a signature of our country’s history, dethroning abusive leaders with the people’s unity. This is not the case here in Benguet, though.

The power of the people in Benguet has been a true untainted supremacy, leading some historical marks on our own history and identifying our heroes and political leaders as well.

Recalling Bado Dangwa, who, back then had a fascination with junk machines and motor vehicles will

take vehicular parts and restore the vehicle to a working condition. In the 1920’s, loaning 10 pesos to every resident in Benguet, he managed to provide an efficient means of transportation for La Trinidad which until now has been well appreciated by the people. He is now known to be one of the heroes of the Cordillerans.

The same case implies to his nephew Samuel Dangwa, who emphasizes people power as his fuel to every success he had attained throughout the years of his service.

According to him, his service was not something he pursued; it was something he engaged in because of the needs of the people.

People power, he says is what made him continue his long service saying “I was not inclined in politics. In fact, I declined the offers to be a candidate but the people spoke louder.” His struggles concern the people who placed him from where he was and he believed it is not just his duty to seek every problem they faced but also his

everyday challenge. He mentioned, “When I entered the service, I was already met by so many challenges coming from citizens and I have to face these challenges and confront them. The needs of the people should be a priority and that makes you even more driven to continue.”

In life, we always start from humble beginnings and fight our way to our own accomplishments. For Dangwa, his life had been an open book to the society and known to start as a simple kid like all others.

FEATURE

Pleasure for a while; regret for a lifetimeWhat you get from BY CARISSA CALLISEN

Drink your heart out. It’s alright. While you are young, you won’t feel the consequences anyway. However, just what the well-known wisest king said “…many years a man may live, let him enjoy them all. But let him remember the day of darkness for they will be many” (Ecclesiastes 11:8).

It may be good as many would think, but reflect that before shutting all your senses, you must know what you will go through after enjoying your alcoholic drinks.

Alcoholism, as experts prove it, brings many diseases that you may face later such as Cirrhosis, Pancreatitis, Hypertension, Osteoporosis, and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Dana George in her article in an online health site (http://www.ehow.com ) noted some of these diseases as follows:

Cirrhosis. This is essentially the scaring of liver. As the scar grows wider it prevents the proper function of the lungs which can lead to bile (a thick bitter fluid secreted by the liver) build-up in the blood. Blood clotting may lessen and blood pressure may rise. Some of its common symptoms

are lack of appetite, accompanied by weight loss, nausea, fatigue, cognitive impairment (confusion and lack of concentration), involuntary shaking, internal bleeding and coma.

P a n c r e a t i t i s . This is characterized by inflammation of the pancreas and, just like Cirrhosis, a scaring of the organ. The scarring affects the production of insulin (sugar release in the blood stream). The symptoms are severe abdominal pain that is normally followed by vomiting or nausea, sweat and fever.

Hypertension or high blood pressure. This is one of the effects of alcoholism wherein too much blood is being forced through the arteries. This damages artery walls and lead to stroke, heart disease, heart attack, pulmonary edema and aneurism.

Osteoporosis, on the other hand, involves the thinning of the bones or loss of bone mass. The weakening makes the bone more brittle. While this is common to women, it can affect men with excessive alcohol intake. The vitamins and minerals needed for healthy bones will diminish and could trigger someone

to develop osteoporosis as well.Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome

is just another effect of alcoholism. This is a serious brain disorder caused by alcohol abuse which is a combination of two disorders that develop from vitamin deficiency and an actual change in the brain. A person who suffers this will experience blurred vision, memory loss, confusion and problems with mobility usually associated with the legs. Sadly, a portion of this syndrome which involves the brain can be permanent.

Alcohol on pregnant women can negatively affect not only the mother but especially the unborn baby. Disorders may range from minor anomalies like the deformation of body parts and undeveloped bran that leads to retardation. It could also cause spontaneous abortion, slower fetal growth in the womb, pre-mature birth and low birth weight. The risks

SEVERE ALCOHOL

INTAKE

Benguet’sPeople Power

A recollection of a former Benguet Congressman

When asked about his realizations in life, he responded, “If I look back, it makes you somewhat satisfied and proud that you have done some things for the good of your citizen. You think that, at least, you are not a complete failure.” (Laughs) And with a quick pause, he added, “It makes you realize that life should not just be for yourself but also for others.”

He and his family members assure his retirement on politics.

At the age of 75, he still runs their business transportation and happily concentrates on supporting his family and friends and he is contented with it.

People power had been a symbol of ousting and end but in Benguet, people power can also be a mark of man’s choice and his trust to his leaders.//

include birth defects.Meanwhile, alcoholism does

not only affect the health but also affects social life. It may change behavior, thus having a great impact to the alcoholic and the people around him/her.

Another effect of alcohol on behavior includes resolute focus on the present (alcohol myopia) and a need to affirm personal power, at least for men. Effects of alcohol on the brain can reduce anxiety about the consequences of one’s actions. They may also impair thinking and problem solving ability in situations of conflict and result to overly emotional responses.

In addition, alcohol consumption is strongly associated with intentional injuries caused by aggressive behavior leading to violent crime.

Health benefits of alcohol While excessive intake of

alcohol presents many disadvantages to our health, drinking moderately also gives good benefits to health. Moderate alcohol consumption has been shown to lower specific health risks like protection against ischemic stroke. Ischemic stroke according to Dr. Florence Poltic, the University physician of BSU, is the blocking of arteries. The blood which carries oxygen to the body can’t circulate due to the blocking of the arteries so the brain will be dead.

On the other hand, alcohol consumption increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. “This is the bursting of the arteries blood clot will be formed so there will be internal bleeding, from the word “hemorrhage”- and this can lead to death,” says Dr. Florence Poltic, university doctor of Benguet State University.

Studies also show that moderate alcohol consumption may offer some protection against diabetes. The protective effect is probably due to the known actions of glucose on glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, both which are factors involved in the development of diabetes, but excessive intake may actually increase the risk.

It can also reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. However, when people consume higher levels of alcohol, the risk of it is greater when they abstain from drinking altogether.

Reflection With all the information

presented, it pays to think a thousand times before indulging yourself into drinking too much. It’s always nice to reflect on what King Solomon once said as quoted in the early part of this article.//

BY JOHN GLEN SAROL


BY CAROL BAG-AYAN

FEATURE

Healthy lifestyle resultsto a healthy you

Life is a gift from God, the Saviour and Creator of everything. Psalms 139 says that we are made wonderfully and fearfully by Him. Man’s body serves as a tool in serving and honouring the Lord, therefore, taking responsibility on our health is very important.

How can you have a healthy body? For those health conscious and want to serve God for a longer time, there are many options and ways to achieve a healthy body; physically, emotionally and spirituality.

Based on the nutritional guidelines for the Filipino published by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Philippines, here are some tips that can make you healthy:

1. Eat variety of foods every day. The human body needs more than 40 different nutrients for good health. No single food can provide all the nutrients in the amounts needed. Eat a variety of foods from the three groups of food such as energy giving food (go foods), body building foods (glow foods) and protective foods (grow foods). These foods can provide all the nutrients required in maintaining good health.

2. Consume fish, lean meat, poultry or dried beans. These foods will not only enhance the protein quality but also supply absorbable iron and source of vitamin A and zinc. In addition, these are low saturated fats that may lead to heart disease.

3. Eat more vegetables, fruits and root crops such as: camote, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, tomatoes, banana and others. These could cure micro-nutrient deficiencies as

noted in the national nutrition surveys. Also, eating root crops will add dietary energy to the meal.

4. Eat foods cooked in edible/ cooking oil daily. Boiling is the most common method of food preparation. Hence, the total fat and oil consumption in a Filipino diet is low. A low fat and oil c o n s u m p t i o n results in a diet low in energy value, contributing to chronic energy deficiency. In addition, these are also essential for absorption and utilization of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin A. To ensure adequate fat intake, stir-fry foods in vegetable oil or to add fats and oils whenever possible in food preparation is encouraged.

This will guard against chronic energy deficiency and helps lower the risk of vitamin A deficiency. The excessive use of saturated fats and oils, however, may increase the risk of heart disease. The proper choice of fats and oil therefore is essential.

5. Consume milk, milk products and other calcium-rich foods such as small fish and dark green leafy vegetables every day. These products are good source of absorbable calcium, protein, vitamin A and nutrients. Also, these will help to prevent

osteoporosis in later life.6. Use iodized salt, but

avoid excessive intake of salty foods. In the Philippines, goiter and iodine deficiency disorders are rampant that cause physical and mental retardation among children. Thus, the regular use of iodized salt in the table and

in cooking will greatly help in eradicating this preventable disease.

On the other hand, excessive intake of salt and salty foods particularly in susceptible individuals increases the risk of hypertensions and hence of heart

disease. Avoiding too much table salt and overly salty foods may help in the prevention and control of these conditions.

7. E a t clean and safe food. Food and water are essentials to life but they may also carry disease-causing organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, or harmful chemical substances. Thus, it is important to buy foods that are safe by purchasing food from reliable sources and take care when preparing and serving meals to prevent food-borne diseases. Also, sharing an effort to

improve environmental hygiene and sanitation in the community will greatly contribute to food safety in the home.

8. For a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition, exercise regularly monitoring their growth. A proper diet promotes good health and normal growth. It makes child alert, and grow at a normal rate. Poor nourishment can cause delayed, if not permanent, physical and mental development.

9. Maintain children’s normal growth through proper diet and regularly monitoring their growth. A proper diet promotes good health and normal growth. It makes a child alert, and grows at a normal rate. Poor nourishment can cause delayed, if not permanent, physical and mental development.

10. Infants should be breast-fed exclusively from birth to 4-6 months old and give appropriate foods while continuing breast-feeding. Breast-feeding is one of the most effective strategies to improve a child health. This should be continued for up to 2 years of age or longer since infants and children up to 2 years of age are most vulnerable to malnutrition.

Healthy diets, regular exercise, abstinence from smoking and moderate alcohol intake are key components of a healthy lifestyle.

“Anything too much has an adverse reaction,” says Miss sherilyn Balauro, Chairman of the BSU- Department of nutrition and Dietetics. She added that knowing your limitations and responsibilities is the best option to maintain good health.//

“Life is a gift from God, the Saviour and Creator of everything. Psalms 139 says that we are made wonderfully and fearfully by Him. Man’s body serves as a tool in serving and honouring the Lord, therefore, taking

responsibility on our health is very important.”


All shoppers are waiting for the red tag or sale on malls to buy the things they want and need. It is most awaited season especially during holidays. One of the basics and most in demand items being bought are clothes. With the crisis and high cost of living, how can a common housewife buy enough clothes to wear? Wagwag!

Wagwag is a term connoted by the vendors engaged into wagwag business on the second hand items they sell. These are items (clothes, shoes, bags, appliances, stuff toys, books) that are slightly used or second hand that are being sold in the market for cheaper prices.

Wagwag in BenguetDay and night, people tend

to spend time shopping, not really in malls but in wagwagan. Why? simply because it’s practical. It is where you can find cheap and second hand yet quality items such as clothes, toys, appliances, and kitchen utensils.

Here in La Trinidad, minor entrepreneurs are engaged in wagwag business. Vendors have their own stall either at the public market or at the night market. Wagwag market is patok (in demand) to local people for shopping.

How wagwag became a business According to Carol

Allad-iw, Vice President of Igorot Second Hand Vendor Association (ISHVAI), wagwag business started in the 1980’s. OFWs employed particularly in Hongkong personally packed and sent any valuable items to

FEATURE

Wagwag:

the Philippines as a package for their families. Realizing that it can be sold and be a good source of income, it became a business.

Nowadays however, most wagwag vendors buy their items per kilo through booking (process of listing reserved buyers) from the Salvation Army, an international protestant Church known for charity works.

The wagwag will then be delivered to the warehouse for packing and tagging (classifying the wagwag according to their quality where class A is the most expensive and not so good (NSG) is cheaper). One sack/ band usually ranges from Php 4,000-20,000 while the boxes usually range from Php 30,000-50,000. Items in boxes are deposited in Hongkong while those in band or box are sent to United States and Korea.

Once the box or band reaches the Philippines, the distributors to the listed buyers will distribute it on agreed price. Those who cannot buy a whole band would go into selection (process of buying selected fine items in a box or band being opened) from the one who bought the box or band.

Risk of wagwag Wagwag or second hand

items are tagged as unclean by those who don’t buy wagwag and even new buyers. They question the sanitation permit of the items.

However, Aling Pacing, a daily customer of wagwagan at 3rd Kayang , Hilltop Baguio, said that for decade of buying wagwag, she never acquired any allergies or diseases especially form the clothes. She added that it is a matter

of choosing the items wisely and cleaning them thoroughly before using them.

Far from that, however, is the real risk behind wagwag business. Filipinos who go to Hongkong, United States and even Korea enter the country as a tourist but ill work at the warehouse, sorting wagwag items as to their quality and kind. If they are caught by the policmen, they could be jailed and would be sent back to the Philippines.

As for the local vendor, buying a class A box or band doesn’t mean that all the items are good. Some are still or the numbers of the items do not meet the capital price.

The “RTW” Vendors Meet the “ ready to wear”

vendors. Being a breadwinner

demands time and sacrifice to make a living. It’s far more on having a good source of income but on how to manage it well.

Greg Bil-i, a member of the Igorot Second Hand Vendor Association (ISHVAI), who has been into wagwag business for 20 years, said that aside from getting back his capital and gaining profit, he still has to consider a lot of things: the rent of the pwesto, payment of kwaltais (ticket) collected by the city hall, the salary of his kadwa (saleslady) in selling whole day and comboy who packed the items in the bodega when opening and closing of the pwesto.

His worst memories as wagwag vendor were during the experience of a demolition and when their collection (their daily, weekly or monthly sale) was stolen

by their own kadwa.“Iti imatang dagiti customer

ket nalaka lang ngem ti kinagpayso na sugal daytoy nga klase ti negosyo” (customers see this business so easy to manage, the truth is this is very risky).

Imelda can not help but to sigh and smile in reminiscing the old days when wagwag became a part of her life. At present, she manages her own wagwag business at Sky World Upper Session Rd. in Baguio City.

“Life back then was so fast yet so slow” she said as she tries to recall her college years. Since her mom was a widow, financing her studies together with her siblings was hard. So she applied as a kadwa in one of the wagwagan stalls at 3rd Kayang St. Hilltop in Baguio City.

Her daily routine would go this way. To be up early, help in the kitchen, off to the market, then to school at free time and dismissal back to the market, got home when the dark was already down, help at home, have time to review then off to bed when the body is tired instantly. Life was so slow for she wants to graduate and help back at home. Her life evolved at home, in school, and at the market.

And yet time flies so fast unnoticing that she let pass of her youth. She never went on dating, trying vices and experiencing youth night life. Her youth world portray a different story. Her life demand her to be tough and persistent since she really wanted to pursue her goals, she needed to be independent and matured in life.

“What I’ve gone through, I will pass on to my children, not the hardship, but for them to learn from

my story,” she ended as she looked down at her teenage daughter busy assisting an old woman buying a pair of shoes.

Her stall was one of the awaited stalls by the customers because she sell abububot (rejected items from wagwag selection) and yagyag ( wagwag items sold at the lowest price). She only opens her pwesto early in the morning, lunch break, and at dark fall. Her suki’s (regular customers) always buy in huge quantity. Her curtains, bed sheets, towels, pillows, and comforters for they are the most in demand items she sold.

At 56, she is proud to say that she is still able to make her own living and even finance her four grandchildren in school. Also, she helps her children especially when they are lacking finances. She shared that she was able to raise her children well, sent them all to school just because of her wagwag business.

Until now, she’s still strong in managing her business since all her children have their own work. Deep inside her, she was hoping she can pass it even to just one of them not as a business but as a legacy that will remind them to always look back from where it all started and will treasure it.

Behind all these stories, we can say that wagwag is not merely about the money being gained from the business. It’s about how it touched and became a part of the lives of the people.//

a source of living (Learning from the stories of the ‘RTW’ vendors)

BY SHAMANY LAPAAN

AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 AG S H A N Community NewspaperAUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 23AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 FEATURE

Egg, like any other food, is either rejected or loved. Rejected because of the feared cholesterol it contains; loved because of the nutrients it gives.

Since my uncle was hospitalized, he started to change his eating habits. Aside from vegetables, his doctor advised boiled egg on his diet. Everyday, I boiled two eggs for his breakfast but he leaves the yolk to avoid cholesterol. By nature, we usually avoid things especially foods that are heard from others that are not good to our health.

According to Karen Geslani-Vergara on her article “Eggciting News,” the bigger consequence of totally eliminating eggs from our diet is totally excluding the health benefits they can provide. Egg has high-quality protein, balanced amounts of vitamins and minerals, and a favorable balance of fats. It provides more nutrients than actual calories. That’s why it is referred to as “nutrient-dense”. Thus, it is advised as a healthy supplement for those who do not get adequate

amounts of nutrients, like those who do not have the resources or those who have imbalanced diets due to food restrictions for medical reasons or those who have difficulty in chewing.

High Quality ProteinProtein from egg has the

highest quality among all other sources of protein. It is easily digested and absorbed by the body. Just like the protein from milk, it has the highest biological value (growth supporting ability of food by providing amino acids for growth and tissue maintenance) among all protein sources. Thus, people who desire to gain weight and build strong muscle should eat eggs.

FolateFolate, also called folic acid

or folacin, is an important B vitamin for all women of child-bearing age, pregnant and breastfeeding. It is vital for the development of a fetus in the

first month upon conception because it is essential for cell division and in the production of new blood cells.

CholineCholine is essential in normal

brain development and functioning in the liver and controls water balance in the kidney. It also promotes conservation of Vitamin A and E which are not produced by the body. Choline is involved in memory storage and muscle control, as well as acting as cleansing agent in the lungs.

Luthein and ZeaxanthinThey are carotenoids that

protect eye and act as anti-oxidants that are associated with eye health. Macular degeneration leading to loss of sight as well as eye cataracts is a result of low level of Luthein and Zeaxanthin especially among female smokers, old, and obese people. It has even chemopreventive (helps in preventing the growth of cancer cells) factor against some of the


The wonders of eggs

Discoveries inside the Shell

types of cancer. Among all sources of Luthein and Zeaxanthin like green leafy and yellow vegetables, an egg yolk has the highest bioavailability rate (a rate which any substance becomes available at the right place in the body). It is three times higher than cooked spinach which has the most carotenoid content.

VitaminsThe yolk has the most of

the egg’s vitamin and mineral content. Vitamins provided by eggs are: Vitamin A, which promotes healthy vision, born growth and reproduction. It helps regulate the immune and equips the body with infection-fighting capabilities. Vitamin B6 is a key player in the metabolism of protein and red blood, and aids in the proper functioning of the nervous and immune system while B12 promotes synthesis of red blood cells, maintenance of the nervous system and growth and development in children.

How about cholesterol?Eggs are the highest source of

cholesterol among cholesterol-rich foods and it is concentrated in the egg yolk. However, Geslani-Vergara mentioned on her article that the health benefits of eggs far outweighed the risk posted by its cholesterol and fat content and that it would actually be harmful to exclude them in the diet, according to expert and results of studies conducted recently in the Philippines. Moreover, many scientific studies over the years found no association between egg intake and an increased blood cholesterol level.

Salmonella bacteria in eggs?Salmonella is the most common

source of food-borne illness. However, it can be killed by adequate cooking seven minutes frying, five minutes boiling and four minutes poaching.

So, before you exclude egg as part of your diet, try considering its “eggciting” news for you. //

Fish balls usually become lifesaver on days when a few coins are all that’s left in your purse.

Arlyn Killip, at Benguet State University sometimes eats fish ball in place of meal to save money.

Nowadays, it’s not a strange scene to see professionals in corporate

Making your own

Fish BallBY NORREN JOY ANCHETA Photo by Robeline Padsico

attires lining up for fish balls along the sidewalks. Fish balls are satisfying and (perhaps most importantly) affordable, making the Filipinos to like it more.

According to ‘he Philippine Island site, fish balls are originally from China but most Filipinos really appreciate the tempting taste of this

food (which is enhanced by sauce) and made fish balls their favorite snacks.

Here in La Trinidad alone, we can’t deny that we are also fond of fish balls. Proofs of this are the fish ball stalls seen mostly, outside the markets, churches, office buildings, schools, in the parks, along the side of the roads, or

any other place with sidewalk. However, have you ever

wondered what these fish balls are made of and how they are made? In fact, you can make your own fish balls.

The name itself tells what a fish ball is. It is actually made out of fish meat that has been finely pulverized by hand and was formed into balls. It is a type of food product made from surimi (fish puree or slurry).

Making fish balls are quite easy and enjoyable. The website of the Philippine Island suggests the following ingredients to be used: 400g white fish fillets, 750 ml water, ½ medium onion (finely chopped), 15 cloves garlic( chopped), 25g chopped onions, 60g flour, 2 eggs (lightly beaten), 1tsp. salt and ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper.

To make the fish balls, follow this procedures: first, clean fish fillets well, making sure to remove any remaining fish bones. Second, put the

water in a pot and boil. Drop the fillets into the water and let cook for about 5 minutes or until flesh is slightly firm, but not flaky. Third, remove fillets from water. Next, mash the fillets and mix with onions, garlic, spring onions, flour and eggs. Then, season with salt and pepper and mix thoroughly to form a smooth batter. Lastly, shape the batter into small balls.

At last! You have fish balls ready to be cooked!

Meanwhile, now that pollutants are everywhere, it is really important to consider the cleanliness of the food we are eating for our own safety.

For additional information and advance fish ball processing, you can visit the following websites: www.thephillipineisland.com, www.gablifestyle.com, lutongpinoy.info, www.cooks.com, www.mixph.com and www.pinoybeans.com. //


Project 66: The guerilla story through guerilla film-making

It is hard to appreciate freedom if one never felt the anguish of being suppressed. This is why today’s generation can hardly appreciate the heroism of World War II veterans during the Japanese colonization in 1941-1945. They do not have a glimpse of what colonization and war mean.

Thanks to a group of young people, who, with their young curious minds and youthful strength, came up with the documentary film project called “Project 66.”

The 66th Benguet Liberation Day Celebration

August 15, 2011. It is the 66th Benguet Liberation Day celebration. A number of war veterans are noticeable with their navy blue or red hats with the words “USAFIP NL” OR “Veterans Federation of the Philippines” standing out at the Ben Palispis Hall in Benguet Provincial Capitol. It is the time to acknowledge them, the local heroes, who contributed much for the emancipation of Benguet Province and the Philippines from the hands of the Japanese invaders.

To give tribute to these veterans, half of the Benguet Liberation Day celebration was allotted to the showing of the film Project 66 titled, “Nowhere Yet Everywhere: Untold Stories of the 66th Infantry Regiment.”

“Project 66” is a documentary film that portrays the difficult life and survival, if not death of Igorots-guerillas and civilians- during the Japanese regime. The figure “66” was derived from the three infantry divisions loosely operating an underground movement in the old Mountain Province and some parts of North Luzon, hence the acronym “NL”.

Project beginningsAs part of the celebration of

Benguet Youth Day organized by Dr. Ryan Guinaran on the occasion of the 2006 Adivay Cultural Festival, Dave Montes, who was then a student and who practically grew up with war history, was asked to prepare a write up about the struggles of the World War II veterans. However, instead of a write up, a documentary film was suggested to serve as an educational material for the youth and as a tribute to veterans as well.

With Betty Listino of Research Mate leading the research and script writing, Montes asked Claro Picpican, then a BSU student, to join them in the research team. They were later joined by Randy Arandia, Eleazar Tumayan, Jeffered Lunes and Hector Binay-an, all students of the same school, in the production stage of the film. Arandia became the film’s production manager while Binay-an served as the production designer. The rest including Lunes and Ray Jordan Montes served as production assistants. Sooner, they were joined by different individuals in the fulfillment of the project.

Project 66 aimed to patronize the significant contributions of local heroes

during World War II, specifically the 66th Infantry Regiment, USAFIP NL.

Aside from serving as a tribute to these local heroes, Montes relates that it could serve as proof of Igorots’ participation in the liberation of the country from the invasion of the Japanese and that it is a resource for today’s generation of Cordillerans to know their local history.

“Mas ammo tayo pay ti history ti dadduma nga lugar ngem diyay local history tayo, haan tayo ammo” (We know the history of other places but we do not know our own local history), says Montes.

Storyline Project 66 is a two-hour

documentary film which is a combination of narration and reenactments focused on the struggles of the 66th Infantry Battalion.

It basically started on December 8, 1941 when Japan launched an attack on several countries, the Philippines included. The bombing of Camp John Hay in Baguio marked Japanese’s invasion in the Philippines. It presented how our local heroes such as Major Dennis Molintas, Bado Dangwa and their companions defended the Region from these foreign invaders.

The film portrayed the clashes in leadership, the death of many soldiers, the survival of our local heroes, and the hope brought by them upon the final surrender of Yamashita, the Japanese soldiers’ leader, in Kiangan, Ifugao on September 2, 1945.

After the bombs hit Baguio in December 8, 1941 and full forced Japanese army were battling with the poorly equipped American and Filipino army in Bataan two days after Baguio’s bombing, indicating the Japanese invasion, guerilla movements were formed in Benguet. It was on these days when Mr. Bado Dangwa, a respected tycoon in the transportation business, turned over all his vehicles to the US Army including some 130 bus units to ferry the soldiers going to Bataan.

Dangwa became an independent guerilla leader. The Japanese tried to bribe him but to no avail.

With Dangwa’s example, most young people in the sub-provinces of Benguet and Bontoc went to Bataan and fought side-by-side with MacArthur’s troops from January 1942 until the Fall of Bataan on April 9, 1942 and the death march followed.

Some soldiers withdrew to the North; Benguet and the rest of Mountain Province became an ideal refuge to Filipino and American soldiers who escaped and disobeyed surrender rules. With the extensive rugged mountains, vast forests, and limited roads and communication of North

Luzon, it became a favorable place for the establishment of a resistance movement through guerilla warfare.

Major Dennis Molintas was then authorized to organize a company called the 12th Infantry which was later designated as the “M” Company.

Other organized operating units in Benguet were remnants of the 43rd Infantry commanded by Parker Calvert and the 11th Infantry Philippine Army commanded by Rufino Baldwin. The 43rd Infantry covered Northern and Western side of Baguio which included Sablan, Tuba, some parts of Kapangan, and La Trinidad, while the 11th Infantry concentrated its operation in Itogon.

Having felt the resistance, the Japanese rushed thousands of their troops to North Luzon. Some civilians were forced to collaborate which led to the capture of guerilla leaders such as Lieutenant Rufino Baldwin.

With the capture of Colonel Moses and Colonel Noble who are both guerilla leaders in June 1943, the three guerilla outfits operating in Benguet were combined and was designated to operate in the entire province. Major Parker Calvert was designated as the first Commanding Officer. 43rd, 12th, and 11th infantry merged. Adding 43, 12, and 11, the 66th Infantry Regiment was formed.The “making” of the film

April 28, 2007. “Now, I have to stand and act as their true commander, though much different from the military command. I can feel how hard it is, and I know it’s much harder these coming days. For the sake of this history, I pray (for) all our resting fathers-the guerillas and soldiers who died for the nation’s liberty…” This was taken from Joefrence Yangyang’s journal, one of the actors who portrayed Major Dennis Molintas.

The making of the film was as dramatic as its content.

“Here we faced the agony of writing history which should have been done twenty years ago,” says Randy Arandia, p r o d u c t i o n manager of the project.

T h e team started researching on October 9, 2006 to November 30, 2006. They went to Bokod, Kabayan and Kapangan to look for elder people who can help them recount history. With the passion

and desire to know the story of the veterans and to come up with a film as tribute to these World War II heroes, they started with their own resources. They have had to look everywhere for civilian survivors and war veterans who are still alive. They tried to look for books and articles about the Igorot veterans but these sources are scarce.

They resorted to locating persons whom they heard about and who can recollect history as recommended by other veterans. They went on road trips and attended different veterans’ affairs.

In August 2006, the first draft of the film was first shown at the BSU Gymnasium as part of the celebration of Benguet Youth Day organized by the SK Federation of Benguet and the alumni community of OSCAR, and of National Hero’s Day.

The film was then titled, “Our Igorot Father, the Heroes: The Untold Story of the 66th Infantry Regiment USAFIP NL,” a narrative documentary featuring the chronological narration of the war.

However, since the film was a pure narrative documentary with the veterans narrating the history, the production team had to revise it and include some reenactments. The intended audience of this film is the youth so putting reenactments could catch their interest to watch the film.

In February 2007, the team started recruiting for actors. They used posters to advertise. They found it hard to look for actors though because the willing actors wanted payment. With this, they resorted to high school students. By that time, several individuals and groups had already joined the team.

While the team is researching for more information, the actors simultaneously had their trainings with Salaco B. Pampanico (former main cast

of SLU’s ‘Apo Padi’), Claro E. Picpican (BSU-CTE graduate), Nova B. Kudan (BSU-DevCom graduate), and the then La Trinidad Chief of Police, Reynaldo H. Pawid, as trainors of the “guerilla soldiers”.

During the on-location shooting, the team went to Bokod, Kabayan, Buguias, Mankanyan, Kapangan, Sablan and Cervantes Ilocos Sur, following the trail of war and the key areas of guerilla activities in 1941-1945.

The production team started the project with its own resources. Thus, they had to make do with borrowed costumes and make props such as grenades and rifles from woods for the reenactment.

To generate funds for the project, the team, headed by its Financial Manager Filmore Y. Awas, solicited from several government agencies such as the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Benguet, the Local government unit (LGU) of Atok and from the general public. The LGUs of Mankanyan, Sablan, Kabayan, Cervantes, Ilocos Sur and the PNP La Trinidad also gave non-monetary donations for the project. The Regional Mobile Group, now the Regional Public Safety Company (RPSC) provided pyrotechnics for the military operations in the film.

After the showing of the second draft on August 15, 2007 on various venues, the film went through several revisions where donated archives such as military archives were included. The film was also shown to the critics in the academe, students and historians whom the team sought for evaluation.

It took so long, six years even, to finish the film because the making was dependent on the availability of the volunteers and the funds for the project. Collection of historical facts also needed time since they are taken from various sources in different locations.

Finally, on August 15, 2011, veterans, students, Benguet officials and other individuals gathered at the Benguet Provincial Capitol to watch the final copy of the film. Throughout the week, it was shown in various venues at Benguet State University.

“Though difficult, the making of this documentary film gave us the privilege to live the life of war veterans,” concludes Arandia.//

BY ALMIRA BENTADAN & MERVALYN OPLAS

FEATURE

The team during the final showing of the video at Ben Palispis Hall on August 15, 2011.

The team during the re-enactment of the war scenes at Sablan, Benguet


HEROESToday, with the high

rate of unemployment, people take all sorts of odd jobs to sustain their everyday needs.

One of the most prevalent odd job perhaps is vending. Under the strong rain or prickling heat of the sun, you can see vendors all around tendering their goods.

Here in La Trinidad, which is considered rural- urban town, shoe sewing is also a potential business or service.

Another common job here is to be a komboy. Being a komboy entails patience and hardwork before someone can get a price of their hard labor.

These jobs among others are taken only by brave heroes of their own family. Some may consider these as shameful, low-class and dirty work but despite that, vending, shoe sewing and being a komboy are still noble jobs. You want to know why?

Meet Mr. MamiOut of forced decision, Rodelio

James Divina finished Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEE), a course which he never loved. Thus, after graduation, he did not have the heart to take the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET). Instead, he applied as a casual government employee at San Jose City, Nueva Ecija and worked there for three years. He worked under the vice mayor until a conflict arose between the mayor and the vice mayor. The power of the mayor ruled against them and he was laid off from work.

It was hard for him but he decided to leave his loved ones and try his fate in La Trinidad.

Fortunately, he found refuge in this place as he landed his first

work as a waiter, until he settled as a self-employed mami vendor as recommended by his friend.

Being a mami vendor, according to him, is challenging and it requires patience because there are times that some of his drunk costumers do not pay and others just escape.

He starts selling mami at 4:00 pm until 9: 00 pm and earns 400-500 pesos per night; fair enough for his basic needs. He also sends some of it to his parents and part of it is used to support his niece and nephews who are now in high school.

With a mournful heart, he said, “For those who are taking a course or those who are forced to take a course they didn’t want, think twice as early as now. You’re making your own destiny. Choose carefully what you want in life so you’ll not regret in the end because I regret for not doing the best for my life,” he shared. “All I can do now is to do well in my business,” he ended.The young refreshment seller

With the unpredictable weather, when you just finished a tiresome activity then it suddenly gets very warm, would you want to have refreshment?

Read on and meet a young boy who sells buko (young coconut) and buko juice as refreshment.

His name is Jeremy, a 14-year old high school student,

who was kicked out from school because of his naughtiness.

“I was involved in a fight so I was kicked out,” Jeremy shared. His parents don’t want to send him to another school again. He relates that maybe his parents had grown tired of his naughtiness; thus he is left to help his parents earn money.

Buko juice vending is a hard job; you earn just enough for your everyday needs. Jeremy said that a cup of buko juice is five pesos only, customers can also buy buko at 25 pesos each. During rainy season, refreshments are not selling like hot cakes so the income is reasonably low and inconsistent.

“Mag -aral kayong mabuti at huwag kayong gagawa ng mga bagay na ikakatigil niyo sa pag-aara,l mas mahirap ang buhay sa labas ng eskwelahan dahil walang matinong trabahong papasukan (study well and never do things which would stop you from your studies because life outside school is harder than you think, you can’t find any decent work),” Jeremy shares to his fellow youth who are studying. He added that by any chance, he is going to continue his studies because he now realized that having dignified work lies in education.The komboy

The wooden cart carries heavy load, but who pushes the

cart to move where it should go? The komboy (one who earns by delivering baggages or sacks of vegetables). Meet one of them.

Freddie is an electrician by vocation. By lack of opportunity to apply his skills, he chose to be a komboy.

As a komboy, his income is not regular. He said that when prices of vegetables drop, all including farmers, vegetable retailers, komboys are affected. According to him, komboys are paid 20 pesos per sack of vegetable (beans, potatoes) but it all depends on the price of the vegetable they will deliver.

But Freddie has a dream. “I am applying abroad as an electrician,” he shared. “Narigat metlang ti biyag ti komboy, tsamtsambaam lang (being a komboy is also hard, you just get lucky sometimes),” he added.

Komboys are indispensable partners in selling your produce (vegetables), here in La Trinidad Trading Post.The shoe sewer/maker

Today, education becomes more expensive but if you have skills, you can compete in the walk of life.

Amor, a father of two girls, said that repairing shoes has been his inheritance from his grandfather. The inconsistency of his income pushes him to

save and so he can send her two “angels” to school. He said with high conviction, “Pagadalek met ti annak ko tapno haan da masublat ti kastoy nga trabaho ( I will send send my daughters to school so they will not inherit this kind of work).”

When asked on what is the good and bad side of being a shoe sewer, he seemed to think for a while, then he slowly answered, “Nu mamingsan awan talaga agpadait ket kasapulan nga agutang, diyay ti narigat (sometimes, no one comes for a shoe repair so I need to borrow money, that’s the hard thing).” Meanwhile, the good side of it is he gets to use his skills to provide for their everyday needs.

These are just some of the odd jobs any person can take. Believe it or not, we share the same stories which only differ in situation.

The next time we walk along the road, imagine the road without them. Imagine if they are all out to do “one-time, big-time job” like robbery or scam, as one of them shared. If they will not sacrifice for their families, who else will do it for them? Like all of us, they have dreams so they do their best to work just to live.

These people are not insignificant minorities in the society. Their jobs may be odd to us but they are brave enough to do these to make something essential out of unfortunate choices and mistakes.//

BY JASMIN KIASO & MANELYN ATAS

The advent of Benguet movies & music videos

Vernacular movies and music videos boomed in the market since 1998. This is why these days, these CD’s are often seen along the roads being sold.

Just like any existing thing, these CDs started from something and by someone.

The PioneersRecording of vernacular

songs started in 1970’s. It was heard and viewed through the use of plaque (plaka) since CDs were not still recognized. In 1980’s, recorders replaced plaques with cartridges. Until in 1990’s, Samuel “Samiklad” Dangpa produced movies using VHS (Betamax), then was transferred into CD in 1998.

Sammy “Samiklad” Dangpa

BY RISHIE SUMAYAO

FEATURE

beyond ODD jobs

is a native of Loo, Buguias, Benguet. He finished 3 years of Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education at UC-BCF in 1986. He founded the Vernacular Video Ministry ( VVM) in 1988. He was married to Nancy Dangpa and blessed with four daughters and one son.

In 2000, Nestor “Awisan” Clemente became his co-director and co-videographer. Nestor Clemente is a native of Mankayan, Beguet. He was married to Lynette Clemente and blessed with two5 daughters.

However, in 2006, Nestor Clemente moved out from VVM and put up his own production “Awisan Video Works.” Sammy Dangpa continued VVM and became the proprietor of Shapadoya Records.

The first movieIt was in 1988 when Sammy

produced the first Kankanaey

movie “Din Mangankanaey ay amey ed langit.” This was actually a mission ministry and was viewed by different churches for free.

According to Sammy, this is a documentary video about the Kankanaey people who read the translated kankanaey bible. It serves as a guiding light to see the right way to heaven.

Existing Kankanaey and Ibaloi productions and popularized movies and songs

The making of individual productions began. Everyone wanted to showcase their talents in singing and directing vernacular movies.

Among the 13 municipalities of Benguet, majority speaks Kankanaey. Thus, having many Kankanaey productions is expected.

Here are the present individual productions with their popularized songs:

Shapadoya records which produced the Igorota 1-8, music

videos on Igorot culture, Christian and love songs is owned by Sammy “Samiklad” Dangpa; Awisan Video Works which produced a Christian movies, Ganab Di Anos and Ganab Di Talek, is owned by Nestor Clemente; Donpoen Production is owned by Nardo Dongpoen; Highlanders Video Works which produced movies Cabanolan and Shawat Nanang is owned by Roger Baiwes and Nestor Clemente; Abatan Records which produced music videos Adal and The Calvary is owned by Marcons Daoawen; Apoy Production is owned by Swing Tomas; JG Production which produced music videos Stardust 1-6 is owned by Jun Garcia; Bestac Production which produced music videos Sayang 1-2 and Mankemkemte is owned by Rudy Albino; Quilito Production is owned by Nilda Olo-an; Talaw Production is owned by Sendong Salvacion; Anak Di Cordillera is owned by Gerry Bestoca; Kadontogan is owned by Cornelio Dampog; Bigis is owned by Paul Masilem; RCO Production is owned by Ricky Alpindo; JLT Production is owned by Monnette Tami-ing: Berlyson Production which produced music video Probinsyana, is owned by Wilson Langpawen; Kinobouyan which produced music videos An-anusak and Halsema

Highway is owned by Hientje Pis-oy.Like Kankanaey productions,

Ibaloi movies and music videos are starting to boom. An upcoming production is expected.

The existing Ibaloi productions are Kabenguetan Digital Productions which produced the music video Tagibi owned by Felimon Carino and RAL Production which produced the music videos Semek Ko Ken Sikam 1-2 is owned by Richard Ligmayo.

When Samuel was asked why he is producing vernacular movies and music videos he said that making videos and songs is his passion. It’s his way of entertaining people. Not only that, what’s important to him is to share the Gospel message in a language that Benguet people could understand.

“First, it is my bread and butter. Second, it is one way of promoting Igorot culture as well as preserving it. It promotes moral values and God’s word. Lastly, it’s one way of discovering self and talents,” Clemente explained.

As these pioneers are passionate to produce vernacular music videos and movies, may natives of Benguet be as passionate to support local productions.//


LT Kasambahays:

Their rights, your responsibilitiesSince the Labor Code prohibits

the employment of children ages below 15, employers, as responsible citizens, should be strict with such qualification. In reasons like lack of money for education as for young people to divert their routine to being a house helper, the Local Government should have an effective monitoring on such situated young people so that they could scheme scholarships that would reach their dreams.

This recommendation arose

after Faith D. Garoy-Micael did a survey on househelpers in La Trinidad for her study “Kasambahay: Work Experiences of La Trinidad Househelpers (2011)”.

Kasambahay is a Tagalog term from the words kasama sa bahay that refers to persons who render domestic or household services. This word is used to recognize the dignity of domestic work and domestic workers, replacing demeaning connotation of other terms like alalay,

katulong, chimay, atsay and others.With Micael’s survey, it was

found out that house helpers in La Trinidad are mostly 12-25 years old when they first engaged in paid household work, female, single, High School graduate or attended College, eldest or third eldest in the family of at least 4-11 members. Most of them are from the neighboring barangays of La Trinidad and some from towns of Pangasinan.

Though many of them are not

BY MERVALYN OPLAS related by blood to their employers, most of the respondents are given benefits such as: social security, paid day off, vacation leaves, free lodging, medical attendance, cash wage, and humane treatment. This is in parallel to the provisions of 1975 Labor Code.

Being young and having dreams to pursue, many of them use these benefits to pursue their education and/or financially sustain their siblings’ education and their parents’ needs.

According to the research, these house helpers endure working hours, loneliness due to separation from loved ones and feeling of inferiority. Nevertheless, they cope with these through thinking about their parents, siblings and children (for some) who are the reasons for their sacrifices; they think of their

RESEARCHAG S H A N Community Newspaper

How are men honed into being that they are in the community?

In the long history of mankind, men are believed to be the superiors of the society. In the cultural communities of Benguet for example, their council of elders, which is one of the most respected groups in a community, is usually composed of men. What are the different stages and trainings that they undergo that make them fit for their roles in the society?

In the study of Benedicto F. Lacanaria titled, “Patterns of Masculinity among the Natives of Benguet,” it discussed the five development stages of typical Benguet man. These are Moyang, Ubbing, Barbarito, Baro and Nataengan.

In the Ibalois and Kankana-eys of Benguet, it is believed that the physical, mental, social, and financial dimensions of man change as they go through these development stages. According to them, physical dimension is not limited to physical health and strength with muscled broad shoulders but it also includes the ability to express their grief, ideas and emotions.

Mental dimension focuses on the wisdom of men manifested

BY JOANNE VHALE MILAN

boymanbecomes ain their ability to make sound decisions and resourcefulness while social dimension centers on having active roles during rituals, and participating in community activities as representatives of the family.

Wealth, on the other hand, is not only measured in terms of money but also in the abundance of food, livestock and landholdings.

Lacanaria stressed that those who are considered moyang do not play major roles at home and in the community since they are those ages 0-6 years old. Ubbing, on the other hand, are those with ages 6-12 years old. They are expected to attend school already. Following the activities that the father or/and the older brother do is

When a

Sheneng:A more effective way of inviting folks

Sheneng, a traditional way of personal invitation, is still an effective way of invitation for rural people of Tublay.

This was proven by Cristifan A. Toring, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Development Communication, major in Development Journalism in her study, ‘‘Perceptions and Utilization of Tublay Residents on the Practice of Sheneng, a Traditional Tool for Communication.’’

Sheneng is the verbal and traditional way of inviting the neighbors and relatives of the ones who will conduct Cañao or Kalon. Cañao is a festival, ceremony, service or ritual of offering. It may be performed for

BY JENNELYN LICANGthanksgiving for a bountiful harvest, for intercession for the health of a community, for healing, and for entertainment during cultural shows and festivities. On the other hand, Kalon is a marriage arranged by the parents of the groom and the bride.

According to the study, people of Tublay still practice sheneng because it is a belief and culture inherited from elders in the community that needs to be followed and it is mandated by elders and relatives. They see it as a very important part of their culture which they should observe and preserve.

Moreover, they also see sheneng as a way of communication that portrays sincerity, formality, and warmth of the invitation from the host. The family being invited cannot

hesitate to attend because it would seem to be an insult for the host.

While sheneng is an effective way of inviting people in rural areas, it may also be a little effective in the urban areas since a lot of people living in the area came from rural areas and carried their traditions in the city.

Some of the people in the urban areas have employed a different version of sheneng which is personally inviting a person to attend occasions even when one just met a person on his/her way, to restaurants, malls and other public areas.

Sheneng is done by the para sheneng. The para sheneng goes from house to house to extend personally the invitation of the host. He should be 55 years old or above because some people believe information

from older people rather than from younger ones. He may either be a trusted relative or close friend of the family, physically fit to walk and has the capability to communicate well.

It is done verbally, either one month, two weeks, one week before the occasion or even on the day of the occasion, depending on the decision of the host family.

In cases wherein the occasion was set, the para sheneng may conduct the sheneng one week or two weeks before the event so that he will have enough time to invite people in far places. For those who are in near areas, the para sheneng can do it in the early morning of the occasion.

Once the para-sheneng is selected, the head of the family or the oldest member of the family

enumerates the persons to be invited. When the para sheneng

reaches the house of the invitee, he will introduce his name, relation to the host, and his purpose for visiting the family or household which is to extend the invitation of the host to them. After their conversations, the para sheneng shall confirm the attendance of the invitee. When the family cannot go, the para sheneng shall take note of the reasons and relay it to the host family. The para sheneng then is tasked to send later the watwat (pieces of meat from butchered animals) which is the gift of the host family to the person who was not able to attend the occasion.//

educational goal; they go home during vacation and important family occasions and they make frequent cellphone calls and text messages.

With these facts among others, the researcher further recommends that the Local Government should provide a systematic scheme to monitor the statistics of these house helpers. These would help in ensuring that the people are aware of the situations of house helpers thereby arousing their humanly instincts to treat house helpers with appropriate treatment accorded to human beings. Also, organizations should be pioneered in the locality to serve as overseers of kasambahays situation and concerns. This would provide them voice and price as workforce of the society.//

considered part of the trainings of an ubbing.During the barbarito stage, he is already

call manbagbagot or the voice becomes deeper. This is considered as the puberty period or the stage before adolescence. The barbarito is geared towards mature roles in the community and in the family.

When the barbarito becomes a baro, he is already an adolescent member of the community. He now starts getting attracted to the members of the opposite sex. He is almost always sought after to do works in the household and in the community.

Nataengan is already the age of adulthood. During such stage, the nataengan now refuses to be involved in playful activities but is more intellectually involved in the affairs of the community.

Although our cultural communities slowly gets influenced by the modern world, these different development stages stays with the Ibalois and Kankana-eys of Benguet. They serve as bases as well as guide for them to be prepared in their roles in their communities.//

AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 AG S H A N Community NewspaperAUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 27AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 RESEARCH

Study shows how traditional healing knowledge is being acquired

Study proves that traditional healers acquire their knowledge through observing traditional healers themselves and also through spiritual aspects like in dreams and visions.

Traditional Healers (Mansip-ok or Manbunong) had always been a part of our society whether in the province or in the city. Their methods of healing like Buton which is done to see good or bad omen by examining the bile of an animal killed or Tumongao which is done to cure an illness inflicted by a spirit through offerings are all well exposed and consulted in our community despite the advances of technology and medicine.

In the past, many had documented these traditional healing practices but none of them focused on the indigenous ways of transmitting traditional healing knowledge.

With this scenario, an initiative was made to document the indigenous ways of knowing among the traditional healers in La Trinidad, Benguet. This was conducted by Sherry Antonio in her undergraduate study under the Bachelor of Science in Development Communication program of Benguet State University. One of the objectives

of the study is to identify the ways of acquiring the knowledge of traditional healing and on how traditional healers transmit their knowledge to others.

As stated in the study, as important as their traditional healing knowledge are the ways by which these traditional healers have acquired their specialized knowledge and on how they plan to hand this down to the next generation. The fact that they were able to learn and apply the knowledge which indicates that their ways of knowing was very effective. They had not been to formal education to become a Mansip-ok or Manbunong as well.

There were five traditional healers interviewed in the study. They were Manang Tina and Lolo Listo who are both from Beckel, La Trinidad; Lolo Asyo who is a Manbunong in Central Tawang; Lola Lapina from Camp Dangwa; and Lolo Olito from Balili.

All the traditional healers in this study claimed to have acquired their knowledge on healing from God or Kabunian. The traditional healers had all experienced a dream except for Lolo Olito who acknowledged two Manbunongs as the source of his knowledge in traditional healing; they are his father and their neighbor. He went along with the

BY JOHN GLEN SAROL

two and observed how a Bunong is done. By the time his father and their neighbor died, he already learned how to do the bunong.

Manang Tina and Manang Lapina had acquired their ability through God conversing with them through a dream, ordering them to serve him or they will suffer an unfortunate consequence.

Lolo Isto dreamt that the old folks instruct him how to do the bunong. They taught him the first lines of the prayer and let him continue. Some old folks advised him to perform a Canao to finally accept the gift.

Lolo Asyo had dreams as well about continuing an unfinished bunong. He was then approached by numerous politicians who had doubts about manbunongs whom they had consulted concerning the result of the upcoming election. He then understood the meaning of his dream, to continue the work of other manbunongs. Furthermore, being a manbunong is in his blood for his father and grandfather were both manbunongs. When they died, he and some of his brothers became manbunong. He had also witnessed his father performing the Bunong and easily memorized the prayers and the accompanying activities.

The traditional healers

also mentioned that although they would want to pass their knowledge, it still depends on Kabunian if he will give the gift to a person. Despite that, Lolo Isto said that he teaches younger people who wants to learn about Bunong. He lets them go with him whenever he does a Bunong so that they could learn how it is done.

Indeed, knowledge in traditional healing cannot be taught or learned in a formal education setting but through experience and also through observations. Add to that is

Indigenous (Kankana-ey and Ibaloi) songs are effective in imparting social values.

Gretchen Shagami Mangahas proved this in her study, “Indigenous Kankana-ey and Ibaloi Songs: A Communication Strategy for Social Values Development among Benguet Youth.”

The researcher identified the social values that can be developed in Benguet youth upon listening to indigenous songs. These social values are thriftiness, diligence, patience, generosity, justice, equality, social responsibility, respect for others, fidelity, bayanihan, respect for the environment and love for hometown. Responsibility is the most identified social value in the song samples.

To identify these social values, she played songs released by the most popular band in Benguet to the respondents. After listening, the respondents were given questionnaires to answer.

The respondents were students

BY JASMINE KIASO

from Benguet State University (BSU) and Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) aged sixteen to twenty seven and who understand the Kankana-ey and Ibaloi songs.

The researcher noted that the most popular band for the Benguet youth is the Kinnoboyan band. Their songs are often the most requested ones in the three radio stations (DZWT, DZWR and Z-Radio) that play Kankana-ey and Ibaloi songs. In fact, the song of Junie Rey Bag-ayan(one of the members of Kinnoboyan Band), An-anusak (which means I will persevere) is the Kankana-ey song that was ranked as number 1 most requested in 2009.

According to the researcher, albums of local artist are now available in the locality and even to the neighbor provinces. However, CDs and VCDs released lack quality in their audio and video component. This is one of the reasons why some radio stations do not air these songs and why some listeners are not enticed to buy albums.

The researcher then recommends that

the relation between God and the traditional healers where in only Kabunian has the power to give the special capability to a person. Lastly, the results of the study are also indications of proper preservation on the traditional practices and beliefs in La Trinidad.

The researcher recommends in depth study on traditional healing knowledge and that ways of knowing should be conducted among all identified healers in the region to validate and strengthen the findings of the study.//

the local music industry (producers and local music artists) should move to stop piracy. This way, local music industry will flourish and will become a moving factor in the society.

Furthermore, the Benguet youth should continue listening to K a n k a n a - e y and Ibaloi songs and use them as inspiration and counseling to establish their social values. According to the researcher, these social values are guide for the youth in their struggle to c o n t r i b u t e to society’s p r o g r e s s . / /

Photo by: Paul Joseph A. Nuval

Photo by: Paul Joseph A. Nuval

INDIGENOUS songs develop SOCIAL VALUES

28 AG S H A N Community Newspaper AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011RESEARCH

There is a NEED for STRONGER implementation strategy on curfew, study suggestsBY ALMIRA BENTADAN

There is a weak communication strategies carried out by the implementing agencies and an irregular implementation of the curfew ordinance in La Trinidad.

This was based on a study conducted by Crislyn F. Balangen, a B.S. Development Communication graduate of Benguet State University which determined the reasons behind the non-adherence of minors on the curfew hours set by the local government unit of La Trinidad.

Curfews have reemerged recently as a popular option for policymakers in their attempts to prevent youths from being involved into crimes. Imposed on and off since the turn of the century, curfews are given more attention when there is a need for stronger public discipline. Curfew ordinance

In an effort to maintain peace and order in the municipality and to safeguard the welfare of the youths, the Sangguniang Bayan of La Trinidad strengthened the ordinance on curfew for minors by changing the time and penalties of the curfew.

Through an amendment on March 4, 2008, the Ordinance No. 1-2003 or the Curfew for Minors under the Children Welfare code is now referred to as the Ordinance No. 2-2008. The revised ordinance states that minors (18 years old and below) are not allowed to hang around the streets or public places between 7: 00 pm to 5:00 am except those returning to or going

Economic importance of Adlay (Job’s tears) revealed

Economic importance of Adlay (Job’s tears) revealed

Job’s tears have great potential for the development of our economy and for the alleviation of rural poverty, a study revealed.

Job’s tears or locally known as ’tigbi’, ‘agdey’ or ‘kakayan’, is a grass belonging to Family Poaceace along with rice, corn, wheat, sorghum and barley.

Adlay has two major types:

the wild variety, which can be made into ornaments like rosary, curtains, bag, neck lace, bracelet, pouch and etc; and the cultivated type which can be processed to become cookies, biscuits and wines.

Adlay is also proven to have higher protein, fat, ash and vitamin contents compared to rice.

The futures of adlay’s agriculture products hold much promise not only in Benguet but

also in the entire country as well.To know the level of

awareness of the Benguet people about adlay, a group of researchers from Benguet State University (BSU) selected six municipalities where adlay is growing to serve as the study site. These are Buguias, Kapangan,La Trinidad, Sablan, Kibungan and Kabayan.

The study revealed that residents in a wide rural area like Sablan, Kibungan, Kabayan and Kapangan are more familiar to adlay than La Trinidad which is considered as a “rurban” community.

Respondents of the study identified the two major types of adlay, which the wild type is more popular to them than the cultivated or domesticated type.

The respondents also identified several uses of adlay in their lives. The young grains of the cultivated variety is used by Kibungan residents to treat cold sore, while the leaves and roots are used to make tea which is believed to treat Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).

Cultivated adlay is also processed as food, either cooked as porridge, roasted and eaten like peanuts or steamed. Some respondents said that wild adlay was used during the world war as an alternative food.

However, the study revealed that despite the wide usefulness of adlay is well known, it is still considered as secondary crop and is not widely utilized in the entire country.

The researchers believe that the development of novel products of adlay both for domestic and export markets can empower and improve rural livelihood. It can also help our country’s economy for adlay maybe an alternate or even a reliable substitute for rice.

To increase the awareness of the residents in the economical value of adlay and promote its usage as food source, the researchers let the community taste finished products of domesticated adlay. They also made accessories like rosaries, bags and earrings from the

available samples of the community.With this, the local

folks are convinced about the usefulness of adlay and that many joined trainings on the livelihood seminar workshops about it.

The researchers recommend that policies for the development of Job’s tears agriculture and processing industries should now be proposed for the improvement of income and alleviation of rural poverty. //

BY MARIE FE WANCE

out of their houses or schools with valid reasons or unless they are with their parents and guardians.

In the same ordinance, violators who will be caught will be referred to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) for guidance and counseling. They will also be kept at the MSWDO for the rest of the night and will be released according to the provisions of RA 9344.

Meanwhile, senior citizens federation asked municipalities in Benguet to strictly impose the curfew for minors in order to shun them away from committing or becoming victims of crimes. “Lurkers at night”

Despite the efforts of the implementing team to inform the public about the curfew, the La Trinidad Women and Children’s Desk stated that there are still violations constantly observed.

According to the 2008 police reports published in SunStar Baguio, La Trinidad listed the highest crime rate in Benguet. Moreover, according to the report of LT Police Women and Children’s Desk, crimes usually committed by minors are related to physical injuries which are mostly committed during night time.

Records also show that most of the violators are high school students or dropouts.

Drawing from the above problems, the researcher conducted a study entitled, “Young Lurkers

at Night: Awareness and Compliance of Selected La Trinidad High School Students on Curfew Ordinance” to determine the awareness and compliance on the curfew of selected high school students of La Trinidad, Benguet.

Respondents were selected high school students from Balili, Betag, Pico, and Puguis, and the implementers of the said ordinance. Selected minor respondents were residents of La Trinidad for not less than three years and have at least an idea about the curfew.

Findings show that the Local Government Units used information drive, radio, newspapers, posting copies of ordinances, and the ronda system or foot patrol to inform public about the curfew.

Most of the respondents agreed that they had witnessed the ronda system while some observed nothing. Moreover, most respondents were aware that the curfew hours for minors is 7 pm to 5 am while majority of the respondents were not aware of the sanction or penalty imposed for violators of the ordinance.

As to their compliance, some of the youths obey the rule due to parental guidance. Those who do not comply are strongly influenced by their peers or friends.

Other result show that there is a lack of discipline

among minors and that there are uncooperative parents and business establishments; thus, affecting the implementation process, according to the implementers.

Seeing these problems, respondents suggested strict implementation of the ordinance and more information-educational communication materials like leaflets and posters to improve the enforcement of the curfew ordinance. Key informants also suggested additional personnel like police force, follow-up on minor offenders, wide partnership to parents and imposing of community service as penalty.

Based on the results of the study, the researcher recommends the enforcing group to strengthen the implementation of the ordinance by developing a communication strategy aside from the existing strategies applied to constantly remind the community about the ordinance.

In addition, the implementers should also strictly enforce the ordinance by conducting daily ronda or foot patrol in all the barangays of La Trinidad with a uniform schedule. Parents or guardians and business establishments should also help in disciplining the minors.//


Betel nut:

‘organic” pesticide against slugs

Aside from chewing the nut as a momma, a study reveals that betel nut can be converted into pesticide.

This was proven in the study “Evaluation of the Efficacy of Betel Nut Pesticide against Slugs” by Gina Panganiban, a BSU graduate of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Entomology.

The researcher used sweet Charlie variety of strawberry as the subject in her experiment.

Formulations were used namely: the granules (powdered

betel nut), the decoction (mixture of ground betel nut and 16 liter of water); fermented betel nut (mixture of 16 liter water and betel nut powder; fermented for 7 days); and formulated betel nut (mixture of grounded betel nut, 2 kg of banana trunk and 1 kg of muscovado sugar).

Granulated and decocted betel nuts are applied through scattering them in the field by hand (broadcast) while those fermented and formulated are applied through spray.


BY CAROL BAG-AYAN & JOHN GLEN SAROL

Coffee Rust, sooty mold, cercospora spot or brown eye spot are plant diseases that decreases the production of Typica and Red Bourbon, both Arabica coffee varieties. This is revealed in the study “Assessment on the Occurrence and Severity of Diseases Affecting Arabica Coffee ( Coffea Arabica L.) in Benguet” conducted by Valentino L. Macanes, chairman of the Benguet State University- institute of Highland Farming Systems and Agro- Forestry that houses IMO Certified Organically Grown Arabica Coffee plantation in the country.

Coffee rust is the most destructive disease in coffee plantations. Initially, it is manifested by small, yellowish transparent spots in the lower part of the affected leaves that can kill a coffee tree if it is left unchecked.

Sooty mold is a black, non-parasitic, and superficial growth of fungi on plant surfaces. This grows on leaves, stems and twigs of woody plants.

On the case of Brown eye spot, there was another study conducted by Cherry May Vicente along with her adviser, Andres A. Basalong titled, “Screening of Arabica Coffee Cultivars at seedling stage against Brown Eye Spot”. The study proved that Arabica coffee is vulnerable to brown eye spot during its seedling stage.

Brown eye spot, also known as frog eye spot, is a dominant disease of coffee. According to FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization), Brown Eye Spots are fungi that occur on leaves when plants are under stress. They cause sudden loss of leaves which in return affects the seedling growth. The disease is caused by lack of air movement, extreme wet soils and even too much shade or too much sun.

Symptoms of the disease are as

follows: Before turning into its brownish color, it may begin with colors like dark brown, reddish brown, brown then reddish brown, purplish brown and reddish white. It starts as a leaf spot that reduces the vitality of coffee seedlings. It begins as small as a 1.5 centimeter spot. Also, it has ash grey center like the eyes’ pupil. The spot may be surrounded by a yellow shaggy circle.

Brown Eye spots can be treated through fungicidal application and can be prevented through maintaining enough shade since one of the main causes of the disease is too much shade. Another way of prevention is to protect the soil through maintaining enough water content.

Both Macanes and Vicente discourages Coffee breeders to apply pesticides in controlling or preventing the identified plant diseases since it will cost the local farmers and it is not an environmental friendly act.

Macanes also adds some crop protection strategies to be applied by farmers. These are selecting good seed that is disease and pest-free, removing more than 10 year-old coffee trees that are at risk to pests and diseases, applying the cultural methods, planting in a higher area, and accreditation of nurseries.

Macanes recommends that a year round smilar research should be done to know the whole disease evaluation in Benguet, and breeding or trying other Arabica Coffee varieties that are resistant to the mentioned plant diseases. While Vicente recommends a follow up study to determine the reaction of brown eye spot disease on different ecological zones.//

Diseases affecting Arabica coffee growth

VALUES from SONGS

Music can be used in diverse ways to express one’s thoughts and emotions. It is also a source of inspiration and relaxation.

In the Cordillera alone, music became a part of people’s lives. Indigenous songs or local songs became popular. Music industries, featuring indigenous songs written by Igorot composers and writers began to flourish years ago and continue to reign until now.

The Americans who occupied the country in 1900’s highly influenced the local music industry as they introduced country music in the region specifically Baguio City and La Trinidad.

Localization of the country music started as early as 1950’s when young people of the decade began to spontaneously compose traditional courtship songs using the vernacular language and western melodies like that of the “Tom Dooley” and “Don’t Cry Joni.”

The early 1970s was the period when “the first big batch of country-style local songs” was produced and distributed in vinyl discs mostly through record stores based in Baguio City.

Lani Gabriel- Bayanes in her study titled “Kinnoboyan Music: Meanings and Construction in the Context of the Kankana-eys of Loo and Abatan,”revealed that the local meanings of the music are structured in the evaluation of lyrics and themes that reflect the writers’ values, sentiments and personality

Listeners may also imitate their idols’ styles and fashions. Songs’ lyrics, however, has a greater impact in terms of values and behavior of listeners.

The lyrics contained the messages of the song and it has appealed most to the youth regardless of the other components. It is therefore the messages from the lyrics that the youth appreciated most rather than the considered more aesthetic components of the song such as the beat and the melody.

Meanwhile, the study of Gretchen Shagami C. Mangahas titled “Indigenous Kankana-ey and Ibaloi Songs: A Communication Strategy for Social Values Development among Benguet Youth,”

BY MERRY JOY DANGATAN

proved that indigenous songs can be an effective communication strategy to impart messages of social values for the social development of the Benguet youth.

One band that became popular lately is the Kinnoboyan Band. It came out to be the most popular band that writes, records, and releases indigenous songs to Benguet youth.

Kinnoboyan is a term which is popularly known in the Cordillera as “the state of acting and being like a cowboy.” The group is composed of five young men from Benguet namely; Junie Rey Bag-ayan, Heintje Pis-oy, Gelasio Biray, Stephen Lael Senio and Christopher Longalong.

The songs in their album “Halsema Highway” teaches social values, as emphasized by Mangahas. They used their songs primarily as a sense of self-expression and as a vehicle to communicate messages of social values. The song writers use the local language to share familiar experiences to their listeners.

Indigenous songs create a very strong influence to the listeners since it uses the language familiar to them. It was cited in the study that ethnic music is one of the richest sources of values. Unlike west music in which the beauty of the song is better gauged from its melody and lyrics, the Cordillera indigenous song’s beauty lies in its values and message. These songs help people gain insights into the aspirations, ideals, motivations and hopes of the people in the mountain region.

As cited in the study of Mangahas, indigenous songs are not just a major source of pleasure and entertainment, it has also been used to help people and promote certain causes. It is also a main source of hope, love, education, social life and difficulties. Indigenous songs express the indigenous people’s thoughts and feelings on education, religion, economics, marriage and family and the various configurations of such institutions.

According to the researcher, the youths are affected by the songs they listen. With indigenous songs, messages of social values may effectively be imparted to them. Through these songs, it may help to further uplift their capacities as younger generation to seek social change and development equipped with the right social values they may attain.

Listeners gain messages and positive values and use these values in their community which in turn moves toward development as cited in the study.//

The study revealed that betel nut that are pounded into small pieces (granules) and boiled (decocted) turned into sour state (fermented), while combined banana trunk, muscovado and pounded betel nut that are stored for seven days (formulated) either using 500g, 1000g and 1500g can be used to control the population of slugs.

Moreover, applying 1500g of boiled betel nut is the most effective to lessen the population of slugs while applying 1000g improves the quality of the strawberry fruits.

Also, applying 1500g of fermented betel nut lessen the damages of slugs on strawberry fruits.

Betel nut has no phytotoxicity (the effect ranges from slight burning to curling of the leaves). There were no damages of betel nut to the strawberry fruits and the leaves

Hence, the researcher recommends this native plant in the Cordillera to the farmers as an effective control on garden slugs and snails.//


CAMOTE to homemade pasta

The combination of camote with pasta or the addition of camote flour with wheat flour enhances the nutritive value of the pasta.

This was proven in the study of Jennifer A. Ibanez, Jennifer L. Lawana and Romelia A. Liwanen of Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics entitled, “Development and Acceptability of Homemade Fresh Camote Pasta”.

Camote has a large potential to be used as a staple food in developing nations with limited resources because it needs short time to mature and is able to grow under diverse climate and on less fertile soil.

Camote is rich in nutrients like complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, beta carotein, vitamin C, B, B2, B3, B6, protein, lipid, calcium, aluminum and boron. Thus, it may help alleviate nutrient deficiencies especially today that people have learned to love eating nutritive pastes.

Here’s the easy way of making the Camote Flour and Pasta

based on the researchers.1. Soak camote in a basin of

water for at least 3 minutes to soften the soil clinging to the tuber and then clean and wash them thoroughly.

2. Peel the camote and steam for 6-8 minutes.

3. Slice the tubers in small cubes or chips for fast and easy drying.

4. Dry them for 8-12 hours using the dehydrator (a machine used to remove the moisture) within 60 degree Celsius.

5. Test the chip for dryness. If the chips are easily broken, it means that the chips are well dried and ready for pulverization. Twenty kilogram of tuber can give you 3.2 to 4.2 kilograms of camote flour.

6. Mound the camote flour in a bowl.

7. Put the mixture in the sides of the bowl, making sure a space is made at the center where the salt,

slightly beaten egg and oil can be placed.

8. Mix the ingredients and shape a ball. Add water if mixture is too dry.

9. Turn the dough into a dry, lightly floured surface and knead until smooth.

10. Roll the dough out with a rolling pin as thin as you can. Cut flattened dough into desired shape.

However possible, the researchers recommended that content analysis must be done on the product to determine the exact nutrient content of the product and nutrient screening may be done to supplement the nutrient losses if ever proven to have low nutrient.

In addition, further studies for the improvement of the product must be done in terms of shelf life, cost and return analysis and packaging and develop other researches which will help in the utilization of camote pasta.//

BY CHERRY POTECTAN

RESEARCH

Alnus compost minimizes clubroot in cabbage

Mixing alnus compost with soil minimizes infestation of clubroot. This was proven in the study, “Management of the Clubroot Disease of Cabbage Using Alnus Compost” by Jenny M. Saingan, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, major in Plant Pathology in Benguet State University.

Alnus is a kind of tree growing abundantly in Cordillera. On the other hand, clubroot is a disease infecting leafy vegetables’ roots caused by the protozoa Plasmodiophorabrassicae. This disease-causing organism spreads from plant to plant.

Clubroot is evident when there is a temporary wilting of leaves during warm days but it recovers partially at night. This occurs because roots are unable to function normally. Enlargement of tap root (main root) and/or underground stem and abnormal enlargement of roots are other indication of having clubroot.

The researcher used cabbage for the experiment. She also used

BY MERVALYN OPLAS

eight kinds of alnus compost-soil mixtures to determine the amount of alnus compost which can be mixed with soil to bring good result. She planted cabbages on these mixtures of soil (infested with clubroot) and alnus compost.

Results showed that plants treated with least alnus compost were infected with clubroot while plants treated with high amount of alnus compost have good growth.

Thus, the researcher concluded that mixing large amount of alnus compost with soil minimizes further infection of clubroot to infected plants. Moreover, alnus compost is proven to enhance and promote good growth of cabbage.

She recommends that to improve plant performance, it is good to apply alnus compost in fields or in pots before planting or transplanting. Also, this compost can be used to enhance soil for good plant production.//

BY NORREN JOY ANCHETAChayote or known as

“sayote” leaves can be added to commercial feeds in broiler’s rations to reduce feed cost.

This was based in an undergraduate study conducted by Julie T. Aspilan, of Benguet State University, Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Animal Science titled, “Chayote Leaf Meal (CLM) as Commercial Feed Substitute for Broiler Chicken”.

On the study, four treatments were used: first, pure commercial feeds; second, a combination of 95% commercial feeds and 5% CLM; third, a 90% commercial feeds with 10% CLM and 85% commercial feeds with 15% CLM.

Result showed that the final weights of the broilers fed with commercial feeds containing 5-15% CLM is likely the same as the final weights of those given pure commercial feeds. This means

that chayote leaf meal is acceptable to the broilers because it did not delay the growth of the birds.

However, the study shows that 5% chayote leaf meal with 95% commercial feeds gives the highest Return on Investment (ROI). Thus, the researchers recommend minimal of 5% CLM to be added in commercial feeds for broilers’ rations.

According to Prof. Myrna Walsiyan, if a poultry raiser (for example) will give 100g of commercial feeds to his chickens, he can remove five grams of that and use five grams of sayote leaves, instead.

To prepare chayote leaf meal, collect chayote leaves and wash it thoroughly with clean water. Set it aside and let it dry under the sun followed by grinding or pounding the leaves. Now, it can be added to commercial feeds.//

“Alugbati” leaf extract: anti athlete’s footBY BEN SEBIANO

Malabar Nightshade locally known as “Alugbati” leaf extract can cure athlete’s foot.

This was proven in an undergraduate study titled, “Malabar Nightshade leaf extract as a treatment of Athlete’s foot” conducted by Katelyn Solimen, Shari Anne Ternola, Leo Karlo Valles and Marriane Walsi-en of College of Nursing in BSU.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin of the feet which is caused by parasites on the skin called dermatophytes.

The researchers extracted “Alugbati” to be used in the experiment. The study also used Ketoconazole (a topical antibiotic cream used to treat infections with fungi) as the positive control and distilled water (an experiment

done with a sample that should normally yield a negative result) as the negative control.

The researchers used four treatments having five milliliter for each concentration. Using cotton buds, the researchers applied the different treatments to the patients at Puguis, La Trinidad Benguet who had athlete’s foot.

Results showed that all the concentration of Malabar Nightshade leaf extract used prevented the growth of athlete’s foot. It was determined that 100% of Malabar extract was the best concentration while 50% and 75% of Malabar extract was determined to have the

same effect as that of the anti-fungal medicine, Ketoconazole in treating athlete’s foot.

The study concluded that Malabar Nightshade leaf extract can be as effective as Ketoconazole in treating athlete’s foot.//

From leaves toFEEDS

3 bush snap bean varieties best for organic prod’n in LTThree bush snap bean varieties

namely: Bokod, Sablan and Hab 19, are best recommended for organic production under La Trinidad, Benguet condition.

This was proven in the undergraduate study of Cristina A. Acyangan, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Agronomy, titled, “Agronomic Evaluation of Five Promising Varieties of Bush Snap Bean for

Organic Production under La Trinidad Condition.”

In the study, five promising varieties of bush snap beans which are Torrent, Bokod, Sablan, Green Crop and Hab 19 were evaluated.

Hab 19 is a code name which is not yet for commercial release. On the other hand, Bokod and Sablan were derived from the name of the places where they are commonly produced. These varieties were obtained from

Benguet State University-Institute of Plant Breeding (BSU-IBP) Highland Crops Research Station and planted at Balili Experimental Station, La Trinidad, Benguet.

It was observed that majority of the varieties produced five pods per cluster. The five varieties except Torrent produced six seeds per pod.

The snap beans were evaluated by 10 La Trinidad farmers. Based on the result, Bokod, Sablan and Hab19

have high resistance to pod borer, good growth and healthy stem, leaves and fruits.

These three varieties are recommended for organic production under La Trinidad condition because they have better growth performance, have higher profit and were accepted by the snap bean growers of La Trinidad. //

BY ROBELINE PADSICO


LT needs information drive on Anti-Corporal Punishment Law of 2007, research says

There is a need to heighten the awareness of La Trinidad elementary school teachers about the Anti-Corporal Punishment Act of 2007.

This is according to the study of Rose Budas, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Development Communication, together with her adviser Anna Liza Wakat, titled, “Awareness of selected Public and Private Elementary School Teachers in La Trinidad, Benguet on Anti- Corporal Punishment Act of 2007.”

Corporal punishment refers to the infliction of physical or mental violence or blows upon a child as a form of punishment including public humiliation, verbal abuse and other forms of punishment that is considered abusive, degrading and inconsistency with the child’s dignity considering his/ her physical and mental immaturity.

The Anti-Corporal Punishment Act of 2007 promotes positive child rearing. Parents, teachers and every person

exercising parental authority must practice positive discipline to children in guiding their behaviour while respecting their rights to healthy development and protection from violence.

To come up with the result, the researcher conducted a survey in La Trinidad elementary schools. With this, it was found out that many La Trinidad elementary school teachers are aware of the Anti-Corporal Punishment act of 2007 but are not aware of the penalty of every Corporal Punishment done.

Any parent, teacher or guardia who shall inflict corporal punishment upon a child under his care shall suffer the following:

1. The penalty or duration of prision mayor (six years and one day to twelve years imprisonment) a fine ranging from 10, 000- 20, 000 or reclusion temporal (twelve and one day to twenty years imprisonment) ranging from 50, 000-100, 000 or both, at the decision of the court, shall be imposed on any person found guilty of violating

the act if victim become insane, imbecile or blind due to a corporal punishment.

2. The penalty of prision mayor in the maximum if the victim has lost an eye, a hand, a foot or if there is incapacity to engage in usual physical activities.

3. The prision correctional (six months and one day to six years imprisonment, except when suspension is imposed as an accessory penalty, in which case, its duration shall be that of the principal penalty) in the prision mayor in the minimum if the victim have become deformed, lost any part of his body, have the lost of use, have been ill or incapacited to engage in usual physical activities of a child for more than ninety days due to a corporal punishment.

4. The penalty of prision correctional in the prision mayor in the maximum if the victim injured shall have been ill or incapacitated to engage in the usual physical activities of a child for more than thirty days due to a corporal punishment.

5. The penalty of prision correctional in the medium if victim shall have become ill or incapacitated to engage in the usual physical activities of a child for a period of ten to thirty days due to a corporal punishment.

6. The penalty of arresto mayor (one month and one day to six months imprisonment) in the maximum of to prision in the minimum if the victim shall have become ill or incapacitated to engage in the usual physical activities of a child for a period of one to nine days due to a corporal punishment.

7. The penalty of arresto mayor in the medium to maximum period when the offender has caused physical injuries not requiring medical attendance.

8. The penalty of arresto mayor in the minimum to medium period if such corporal punishment does not cause any physical or mental injury.

The researcher recommends that communicators could design IEC materials which can help in improving the awareness of teachers on the Anti- Corporal

BY CHERRY POTECTAN

Punishment Act of 2007. Also, the Department of Education could do a research to check the awareness and compliance of all public and private schools regarding the said act.

Furthermore, information drive regarding the briefing of the people with regards to the act is also suggested most especially on the kinds of corporal punishment and its corresponding punishments in compliance to the act. It is suggested too that an in-depth research study should be conducted, focusing more on the compliance and awareness of all public and private schools on the Anti- Corporal Punishment Act of 2007.//

Mango, bell pepper

attract fruit fly-study showsBY MERRY JOY DANGATAN

Mangoes and bell pepper are not just plain fruits and vegetables. They are natural insect attractants that specifically kill and trap fruit flies which destroy fruits in the fields and gardens.

This was proven in an undergraduate study titled, “Effectiveness of Different Fruit and Vegetables as Fruit Fly Attractants.”

Fruit fly damages many fruits and vegetables in La Trinidad. The female fruit flies are attracted to ripen fruits where they want to lay their eggs. They insert the needle-like ovipositor (an organ at the end of the abdomen on female insects by which their eggs are deposited) and lay their eggs into the fruits. The maggots (larva of a fly) feed and destroy the tissues of the fruit causing economic damage to the

farmers.The researcher used ripen

citrus, native guava, strawberry, mango, papaya and banana as fruit attractants while chayote, tomato, bell pepper and cucumber as vegetable insect attractants.

The researcher fermented the fruits and vegetables separately in order to produce plant juice. A vinegar juice (a mixture of crude avinegar and muscovado sugar) to enhance the aroma of the attractants was also used. It drives away and lessens the tendency of beneficial insects to be trapped.

In the experiment, the researcher poured equal amounts of fruit and vegetable juices and vinegar juice to 1.5 liter- soft drink bottles to determine which fruit and vegetable extracts are effective in attracting insects.

The study revealed that mango and bell pepper trapped the highest number of fruit fly as compared to other vegetables and fruits used..

The researcher then recom-

mends mango and bell pepper as fruit fly attractants. She also recommends to change the trap after 10 days to maintain the its effectiveness.

The study was conducted

by Eira A. Basingan, a BS Agriculture graduate major in Entomology at Benguet State University.//


Indigenous weeds as vegetable alternative

Some indigenous weeds usually eaten by local folks of Benguet, Baguio City, and Mt. Province are nutritious, acceptable and can be used as vegetable alternatives.

This was proven in a study titled, “Nutritional Value of Selected Indigenous Vegetables of Cordillera” conducted by Lorenza G. Lirio, Louisa P. Placido, Lito O. Ayyokad, and Joyce N. Paing, researchers of Semi-Temperate Vegetable Research and Development Center of the Benguet State University (STVRDC-BSU).

In the study, the researchers collected some edible weeds from the locality to analyze the nutrients present in these weeds.

The indigenous vegetables with their nutrient contents are as follows:

Amaranth (Amaranthus blitum), locally known as kalunay, is rich in protein which is used in

the formation and reproduction of tissues in our body. It is also rich in fats. Dietary fats and oils are excellent source of energy while making the foods delicious.

Beggar’s Ticks (Bidens pilosa), locally known as puriket, nguad, or pisau-pisau is also rich in protein, vitamin A and vitamin C. Vitamin A improves eyesight, growth, reproduction and bone development. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant that is important in healing wounds and in the production of collagen, the basic protein in bones, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.

It was noted that rural folks also eat puriket because it can prevent goiter and is also used in rice wine (tapey) making.

Night blooming jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum) also known as Dama de Noche or Lady of the

Night is not a popular food crop. It is used as vegetable only in Sagada, Mt. Province. It is high in vitamin A and a good antioxidant.

Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) locally known as masaprola is rich in fiber. Fiber has no nutritive value but it aids in digesting foods. It also lowers blood cholesterol and prevents diabetes and heart diseases.

Deadly nightshade (Solanum nigrum) or amti, in the locality, is found to be high in protein.

There are more indigenous weeds that remain unknown because of the rise of fast food chains, food supplements and modern technologies. Thus, we are not aware that in our surroundings, we can find edible weeds which are nutritious and are good vegetable substitutes.//

BY MERRY JOY DANGATAN

Red Mushroom gives high yield with rice straw as substrate

BY JASMIN KIASO

R i c e straw is cons ide red as an agricultural w a s t e . H o w e v e r , some farmers decompose it to avoid the nesting of rats and to sustain the fertility of land by t r a m p l i n g the rice straw after harvest. Now, its potential as s u b s t r a t e for red mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) cultivation is being realized as it is proven to give high yield.

This was revealed in a study titled “Biology and Productivity of Red Mushroom using Selected Agricultural Wastes” conducted by Jofelyn S. Palaci at Benguet State University Mushroom Project.

The researcher investigated six agricultural wastes namely; sawdust, corncobs, rice husk, rice straw, rice bran and tiger grass seeds to know which is effective as substrate (as soil) for red mushroom.

In preparing the substrates, the researcher chopped the corncobs while she cuts the rice straw into smaller pieces. After which she composted all the substrates separately for one week.

Before bagging, she watered each pile of composted substrates to attain the desire moisture. The desired moisture is when you squeeze the substrate; no water shall slip nor stay in your palm.

She then observed and recorded the mushroom’s development under different substrates from the time of planting, fruiting and harvesting.

After the experiment, the researcher emphasized that the best way to know the productivity of red mushroom is yield which is best shown by the mushroom grown with rice straw as substrate.

Rice bran also showed hope being the second to rice straw which gave the highest yield while rice husk mixed with sawdust is the best combination that also promised high yield.

On the other hand, tiger grass seeds failed to support growth and development of the red mushroom.

The researcher then recommends for further trials on the use of rice bran and tiger grass seeds and further studies of red mushroom under the prevailing environmental conditions such as humidity, temperature, lighting conditions and amount of carbon dioxide in the air.

Red mushroom is commonly known as Lingzhi in China, Reishi in Japan and Youngzhi in Korea. Red mushroom was discovered to be detoxicant, diuretic, liver protector, a tranquilizer and antitumor drug, intestine regulator, cardiotonic, blood pressure adjustor and a cold tonic under extensive research of foreign scholars, clinical experiments by hospitals, colleges and pharmaceutical manufacturers.//

RESEARCH

PEDEN: Mt. Province’s way to retain peace and order

Peden is a peace covenant prac-ticed by our ancestors and proven as an effective way of preventing tribal war and maintaining peace and order within the community of Mt. Province.

This was revealed in an un-dergraduate study, “Socio-Economic Implication of Peace Pact between Bontoc and Belwang, Sadanga, Mt. Province,” by Joshua B. Jose, a graduate of Bachelor in Science in Agriculture major in Extension Edu-cation in Benguet State University.

According to the research, peace pact contract initially from a face to face agreement (aliwid) between two community leaders (pangollo). But with the increase of population, the peace pact was no longer made between two villages anymore, but among two wards of a tribe. This ward, locally called ato, operates as the po-litical unit in the village organization.

If one ato wishes to enter a peace pact or covenant with another ato for a peaceful community, the pan-gollos of the concerned tribe meet to select who will be the covenant host.

The messenger then sends a message to one of the atos about the peden. He eats and drinks with one of the pangollos, thus becoming the pro-tected guest. As a guest, he expresses and discusses his proposal for the

peden. If the result is positive, the mes-senger returns and proclaims the day set for the peden. They are to prepare glutinous rice, tenofo (dried meat) and sugar cane wine (basi). On the set day, if predictions are good, they got to the other ato, bringing food and drink. They are welcomed with gongs and beatings.

The leading pangollo of the visi-tors then makes a speech and asks who will be the peden holder (fedohing) of the other ato. When named, the peden hold-ers will have a sparing using their spears.

After designating the peden hold-er, both parties will discuss the areas that will be covered in the peace covenant.

The next day, the covenant holders perform the eyag to get the predictions. Then gongs are played; native chicken are killed and palis is performed by the cov-enant holders who eat the pinikpikan.

On the third day, the biggest day of the celebration, five to ten pigs are butchered, rice and vegetables are cooked. It is also where the highlight of the celebration can be seen: the colour-ful procession of girls bringing tray of tenofo, tobacco and tapey (rice wine). In the evening of the same day, a tengao (day of rest) is announced for tomorrow, which ends the ceremony, and the peace pact or peden can now be re- enforced.

For the success of the cov-enant, the covenant holders will ask for the help and support of

the people from the community.Peden is being practiced by

the people from Bontoc and Bel-wang, Sadanga, Mt. Province until now. Though the two tribes have their own dialects, they share simi-larities in their customs and traditions.

Both the ethnic groups believe that through peden, they are living in harmony and in great camara-derie with the other tribe. Through peden, an open communication be-tween them was also developed, which helps them share their aspira-tions and the information they have, peden succeeded in maintaining peace and order among these two tribes.

The researcher also found out that aside from peace and or-der, peden also affects the people’s livelihood because they are to till their land without the fear of be-ing murdered, shoot or killed.

One major problem encountered in this practice though is the abuse of the holders of their limitations and area of concerns including some un-disciplined members of the covenant.

The researcher then asks for full support and cooperation from the cov-enant members and local government organizations for peace to be retained.

In general, peden is seen and proven as an effective way of pre-venting tribal wars between tribes.//

BY ANABELLE TOSTOS


Raniag and Agria potato varieties are best recommended to be planted during dry season as it was proven to be tolerant to drought.

This was based on a study conducted by Genevieve D. Taligan with her adviser, Dr. Belinda Tad-awan, titled, “Evaluation of Potato Varieties for Drought Tolerance”, done under greenhouse condition at Northern Philippine Root Crops Reseach Training Center (NPRCRTC) Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.

Potato requires larger amount of water to survive and

produce tubers. However, this research proved that Raniag and Agria varieties can survive during dry season. Compared with other varieties, these are capable of producing good yield even when there is water deficit.

In the study, the researchers evaluated potato varieties namely: Remarka, Columbus, Signal, Caesar, Farmer, Recolta, Agria, Baraka, Raniagand Granola. In addition, Remarka, Columbus, Signal, Caesar, Farmer, Recolta, Agria and Baraka were newly developed varieties obtained from Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) while varieties Raniag(developed

in Ilocos) and Granola (farmer’s variety or commonly planted in Benguet) were obtained from NPRCRTC.

T o observe the length

of time without water that the different

potato varieties can tolerate, the researchers

watered these and stopped at 30 days after planting.

Among these varieties evaluated, Raniag and Agria potato varieties

had the highest marketable and total yield and highest recovery rating, Baraka produced the tallest plants, Columbus had

Research reveals two drought tolerant potatoes

the highest relative water content, Raniag had the highest haulm weight and Agria produced the highest number of marketable tubers. Accordingly, yield is still the best parameter in measuring drought tolerance.

Further, the researchers mentioned that Raniag and Agria may have adaptive mechanism that enables them to grow and yield satisfactorily under unfavorable growing conditions. //


Vermicompost, sunflower extract gives high yield on French Beans

Vermicompost (waste products of earthworms) and fermented wild sunflower extract (FWSE) as organic fertilizers can improve the chemical and physical properties of the soil. FWSE can also decrease pest (semi-loopers) and disease (bean rust) of French beans which results to high yield in production.

This was proven in an undergraduate study by Georgette T. Tomin titled, “Rates of Vermicompost and Frequency of Sunflower Application on Some Soil Properties and Performance of French Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)”. It showed that the amount of vermicompost and the number of days per application of FWSE positively affects the soil properties and yield of French beans.

In the experiment, four main plots were applied with different amount of vermicompost.

Fermented wild sunflower extract were prepared from chopped fresh wild sunflowers and mixed it with water, indigenous microorganism (solution which has microorganism that quickens the fermentation) and lactic serum (defense against fungus and diseases). The solution was then added with muscovado sugar (unrefined sugar), fermented sunflower extract and calcium phosphate. It was fermented for seven days.

The researcher mixed the fermented wild sunflower extract with water and sprayed it to the plants. The first application was done 15 days after the seeds sprouted.

With the combination of nine kilograms vermicompost applied with FWSE every fourteen days the average length, marketable and highest number of pod yield was obtained.

The results further revealed that with nine kilograms vermicompost and FWSE with an interval of every ten days, the degree of bean rust (reddish brown pustules) and semi-loopers’ infection (Dangan-dangan in local term) decreased. These resulted to longer pods of French beans which increased marketable yields. //

Strawberry leaf extract heal wounds

Strawberry leaf extract can heal wounds.

This was proven in an undergraduate study titled “Potential of strawberry leaf extracts as an alternative in healing wounds” done by Shirlemagne L. Olecio, Kristel Joy Olsim, Vaezelle G. Pacna, Aubrey Nora A. Panilas and Ma. Ervilla P. Perez of BSU-College of Nursing.

DOH needs to impose the Philippine Code of Sanitation, study suggests

There is a need for the Department of Health (DOH) to strictly impose the Code of Sanitation of the Philippines among street food vendors.

This was stressed by Janet m. Ambucay in her Master’s study in Home Economics, titled, “Food Sanitation and Safety Practices of Street Food Vendors” after surveying 83 street food vendors from the central business of Baguio City-Abanao Street, Bonifacio Street, Burnham Park, Harrison Road, Magsaysay Avenue, and Session Road.

Based on the researcher’s survey and observation, most of these vendors are placed in an unclean, uncovered and unscreened vending area. Also, most of their trash cans are uncovered. Thus, making their product unsafe.

According to the Code of Sanitation of the Philippines (Presidential Decree, sec. 32) food vendors shall only sell other food items like chicken nuggets, sliced mango and santol, banana cue, fishballs, tokneneng, and barbecue. They sell in an open area especially along sidewalks and streets where people pass through. They also cook in their sale sites while some display their goods in an open container.

Since cleanliness and personal hygiene is important to our health, the researcher interviewed and observed the physical appearance of vendors. She found out that everyone was aware of the importance of washing hands and cutting nails.

Females don’t wear make-up and most of them do not wear pieces of jewel. Also, men have clean hair cut while females tie their hair.

However, they failed to comply on the wearing of hairnet and apron.

As for the equipment, the vendors use clean, free from rust and still in good condition utensils. They use food tongs in handling foods and make sure that they don’t touch the foods when they are wounded. However, they do not wear gloves when handling ready to eat foods.

With these result, it is suggested that authorities like policemen must have regular surveillance of the street food vendors. Also, the print, radio and television media should encourage lectures and symposia to educate both vendors and consumers.

It is understandable that this business (street food vending) is an important source of living. However, vendors must check their food sanitation and personal hygiene to ensure their costumer’s health.//

BY RISHIE SUMAYAO

Papangoan influence in indigenous community of Bakun

Papangoan (council of elders) in Bakun have important communication roles. They are advisers, listeners, traditional judges, leaders (mangipango) and traditional healers (manbunong).

This was noted in the study titled, “Communication Roles of Elders in the Development Process among the Kankana-ey and Bago Tribes of Bakun, Benguet” by Felicidad Lunas, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Development Communication in Benguet State University.

Papangoan is the council of elders whose members are most respected in Bakun. This is the group of men and women who are 40 years of age and above, knowledgeable of the local culture and is well respected in the community.

The researcher conducted

interviews and survey in Bakun to come up with the result of the study. With the survey analysis, it shows that Papangoan are mostly needed in the community during the discussions of proposed community development projects such as dams and in settling disputes-marital, land, and minor crimes.

Furthermore, family disputes and community problems are addressed with their presence and participation.

As advisers, they are to be consulted in decision-making on matters of “abnormal” relationship like when first degree cousins have an intimate relationship. Sometimes, they have the final say depending on the complexity of the problem being talked about.

They act as leaders in the absence of authorities on occasions such as church activities. Elders are also called as healers performing hilot

or administering the use of herbal plants to cure an ailment.

As traditional judges, learned and experienced elders are called to act as mediator between conflicting parties by exercising fairness, honesty and equality. Problem is solved in the consensus of tongtong. Punishment imposed by the council of elders would be in the form of daños (amount of money requested from the offender as a compensation of the crime committed).

As teachers, they are expected to pass down indigenous knowledge, teaching the youth of the proper ways of carrying out certain rituals associated with everyday happenings like when performing kugit. Also, elders teach their beliefs and practices on how a mother takes care of situations like when the first baby is conceived and when members of the family pass away.

Furthermore, elders carry out their communication roles by performing rituals (e.i. cañao and giving pieces of advice through native prayers, stories and experiences.

Their importance in Bakun Community as adviser, mediator, listener, traditional judge, leader (mangipango) and traditional healer (manbunong/mantulong) has been institutionalized through a municipality-wide organization called the Bakun Indigenous Tribe Organization (BITO), led by the Papangoan.//

BY SHAMANY LAPAAN

BY ROBELINE PADSICO

BY BEN SEBIANO

“Fragrant Cloud” produced more leaves and more flowers while cultivar “Rainbow’s End” produced the least number of leaves and flowers. “Rainbow’s End” was also the shortest and has the smallest blooms.

Meanwhile, plants grown in alnus compost with sandy loam soil showed the shortest time to reach flower bud formation and maturity. It also produced more leaves. Plants grown in a sandy loam soil with rice hull produced the tallest plants. The researcher also observed that the sandy loam soil with alnus compost, and rice hull with BSU compost and sandy loam soil produced the highest number of flowers per plant.

The researcher then recommends the use of alnus compost with sandy loam soil, the usual type of soil used by most growers, as a planting medium for it promotes fast growth and more flower production. The use of this kind of soil increases income.//

Planting roses with the use of alnus compost with sandy loam results to fast growth and more flower production.

Carolyn I. Zaparita proves this in her study titled, “Varietal Response of Miniature Roses (Rosa chinensis minima) to Different Potting Media Formulations”.

The researcher used six varieties of potted miniature roses namely: “Joycie”, “Teddy Bear”, “Cupcake”, “Fragrant Cloud”, “Marie Shields and “Rainbow End.” To each variety, she used mixtures of soil which were: sandy loam with alnus compost; BSU compost with sandy loam; Burnt rice hull with sandy loam; mushroom compost with sandy loam; sawdust with sandy loam; and rice hull with BSU compost and sandy loam, respectively.

Results of the study showed that among the six varieties of miniature roses grown, “Teddy Bear” variety produced the biggest flowers, was the fastest to reach maturity and is the tallest. The cultivar

Sandy loam w/ alnus compost: best soil for planting miniature rosesBY CARMELITA PACOS

The researchers subjected 42 live white male mice to different treatments namely: crude extract (pure strawberry leaf extract), ethanol extract (strawberry leaf extract with an ethanol, a purified substance from a colorless liquid in alcohol beverages produced from yeast), water and Mupirocin (an antibiotic drug used to effectively treat skin infections).

Three schedules of treatment application were done: right after wounding, one day after wounding, and three days after wounding.

Results showed that the pure extract is the most effective among other concentrations when applied after the cut. This implies that applying one day after the cut provided a time for the wound to lessen its trauma.

It is then recommended

to apply pure crude extract a day after the cut for effective wound healing. It is also recommended that information dissemination about this result will be conducted.

Since the study used mouse/rat, the researchers also recommend further study on the use of pure strawberry leaf extract applied to different types of wounds of actual human patients.//

34 AG S H A N Community Newspaper AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011RESEARCH

Higher organic fertilizer produces quality of Benguet Lily

Study reveals that applying higher amount of organic fertilizers to Benguet Lily will produce longer stem, higher height, increase the development of leaves and flowers and will result to early harvesting.

Erica M. Galap, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Horticulture found this in her study titled, “Effect of Different kinds and Rates of Organic Fertilizers on the Growth on

Flowering of Benguet Lily” to determine the effect of different kinds of organic fertilizers on growth and flowering of Benguet Lily.

The researcher used four

kinds of organic fertilizers as follows: the processed chicken manure, alnus leaves compost, horse manure and BSU manure. BSU manure is decomposed organic matter such as chicken dung, mushroom compost and fresh sunflower used as fertilizers.

Results showed that all the different organic fertilizers applied to Benguet Lily produced better quality of Benguet Lily. However, BSU compost produced the tallest plants, has the higher number of leaves per plant and has bigger flower sizes during the formation stage of the buds. It also has the earliest

BY MANELYN ATAS

The power of malunggay leaves as stool softener

Malunggay leaves extract can treat constipation.

In the study of Manilyn Ann Ringor, Margie Sacyaten, Letijean Saldo and Floribelle Joy Samaniego, graduates of Bachelor of Nursing at Benguet State University titled, “Malunggay as Stool Softener for Postpartum Mothers,” they found out that malunggay leaves extract contain components with stool softening properties.

To prove this, the researchers gathered malunggay leaves at Cambaly, La Union and brought it to the National Science Research Unit of St. Louis University (NRSU-SLU) for phytochemical testing (incorporation of chemicals needed) and observations. Afterwards, they pulverized it by using mortar and pestle and packed it in tea bags and distributed to 15 mothers (their

respondents) at Pico, La Trinidad Benguet who just gave birth. The respondents used the processed malunggay leaves as tea.

The researchers found out that the malunggay tea helped the respondent mothers to have regular bowel movement.

This is due to the content of malunggay leaves which are gums, mucilages, glycoside, carbohydrates, reducing sugars, deoxysugar, saponin and polyphenolic compound which have laxative (stimulates metabolism) properties.

The researchers recommended that a further study on the other parts of malunggay as stool softener such as the flowers and fruit should be done. If possible, the elders could also be included as respondents because they commonly have constipation.//

BY JOLLIBEE CALDERON

Lemon grass, guava combi, tomato leaves effective insect repellants

With the prevalence of different insects particularly mosquitoes during rainy season, incidence of insect bites and the accompanying mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and malaria are inevitable. Because of this, people adapt different ways to prevent such diseases. One of which is the adaption of mosquito repellants such as the use of smoke from wood fires in the earlier times.

Nowadays, however, people prefer using insect repellant products since they are odor free, non-toxic and non-irritating. These repellants can be divided into two categories, the synthetic chemical and volatile oil.

Most commercial mosquito repellant products contain chemicals that are toxic and can cause skin irritation. Mosquitoes can also gradually develop resistance to synthetic repellants, making them not the best choice.

Because of these, natural repellants which include volatile oils and plant extracts are being considered. Aside from being natural, they are also environment-friendly and have lesser side effects.

Two separate studies were conducted to determine what plant extracts are best as insect repellants.

The first study was conducted by Kim T. Luminang, Charlotte M. Marino, Kaye C. Martinez and Krizzia P. Nabus

of BSU-College of Nursing titled, “Combined Effectiveness of Lemon Grass and Guava as Mosquito Repellant.” The researchers found out that lemon grass oil and guava fruit extract can effectively repel mosquitoes.

The researchers explored the possibility of combining lemon grass oil and guava fruit extract to come up with an effective mosquito repellant.

Different levels of combinations of lemon grass oil and mineral water; guava fruit extract and mineral water; and lemon grass oil, guava extract and mineral water were used to determine which combination is the most effective.

Results showed that the highest concentration of combined lemon grass oil and guava extract treatment was the most effective among the other treatment concentrations. The researchers then recommend the formulation of commercialized products like lotion or spray solution using combined lemon grass oil and guava extract.

Lemon grass is a plant widespread in the Philippines. Aside from its several health benefits, it has also been proven as effective insect repellant and its effects may last for two to three hours.

Guava, on the other hand, is a common fruit in the Philippines. It has also its own health benefits and reports from several elders state that it has the capacity to repel mosquitoes because of its

scents. In a separate

undergraduate study titled, “Tomato Mosquito Repellant: Tomato (Lycopersicum solanum) Leaf Extract as an Alternative Mosquito Repellant” by Collins Joe Francisco, Ma. Lucille Payangdo, Alexandra Pelino, Joana Grace Pistola and Riza Pumahing, graduates of Bachelor of Science in Nursing, they found out that wild tomato has mosquito repelling contents.

The researchers used a juicer to extract the Wild Tomato leaves. After that, they add boiled water to dilute it. For the experiment, they caught mosquitoes from different parts of La Trinidad by using insect nets.

Meanwhile, they applied an amount of Wild Tomato leaf extract (unrefined products) in their hands as a lotion and they put their hands inside a box with mosquitoes. They observed that the mosquitoes did not bite their hands because of the tomato leaf extract as mosquito repellant. This would help in repelling female mosquitoes which are the carrier of dengue virus that causes dengue fever, deadly disease.

In addition, the researchers recommend further study with the possible determinant of some parts of the tomato plant such as the fruit and that the variety of tomato should be used aside from Wild Tomatoes.//

BY ALMIRA BENTADAN & JOLLIBEE CALDERON

flowering and has longer stem. This was followed by Alnus leaves compost and horse manure which also produce longer stem, taller plants, higher number of leaves and has better quality of flowers.

The researcher then recommends the application of BSU compost and horse manure to Benguet Lily because they gave the highest income among the different organic fertilizers with lesser expenses compared to the others.

Organic fertilizers are derived from the decomposed wastes of animals and/or plants’ residues which can

supply more essential nutrient such as vitamins, hormones and beneficial organisms to plants for its better growth and development. //


efforts of all stakeholders and the continuous dissemination of information to residents.

Since dengue is caused by a virus, it does not have a specific medicine as treatment, Dr. Francisco explained. With this, the municipality is conducting activities to control or prevent dengue which include school campaigns, barangay orientation, four o’clock habit, nine o’clock habit, and the four S (4’s)

The four ‘S’ stand for search and destroy, self- protection measures, seek early consultation and say no to indiscriminate fogging.”

Aside from conducting school campaigns, the MHO is also distributing treated curtains from the Department of Health to areas

Dengue Cases in LT decrease...from page 1

One Card for Cordi’s health PhilHealth launches ‘1M in 1M’ campaign in CAR..from page 3

where many cases were noted like Puguis Elementary School. The curtains contain chemicals that could kill mosquito which is known as dengue carrier. These were given by the Department of Health.

As a part of fighting dengue, information, education communication materials such as posters, flyers, and other media forms were distributed and posted strategically in different barangays.

Meanwhile, Maria Imelda Ulep, provincial health office director, mentioned some ways to prevent and control dengue. She advised to keep the environment clean; get rid of containers with water; cover water drums and water pails at all times to prevent mosquitoes from

breeding; replace water in vases at least once a week; clean plants; and dispose all unusable tin cans, bottles and other items that can collect water.

According to Francisco, these are the best solutions to avoid the outbreak of dengue in the municipality, if not, the whole country. Accordingly, fogging is not advisable to use in killing mosquitoes for it contains pesticide. It may only be used unless there are no other alternatives.

Dengue occurs during rainy seasons but it already became an all year round disease now. Dengue is caused by a family of viruses transmitted by mosquitoes. This disease is considered life threatening; however, it is not always dangerous when an early prevention is observed.//

of his latest payment (premium contribution). The receipt is required by merchants for it proves that a customer is indeed an active member.

Philhealth Membership Registration Forms (PMRF) are now available at PhRO-CAR office at SSS Building along Harrison Road, Baguio City and at its Service Office at 2nd Floor Halili Building (adjacent to SLU maingate), Bonifacio Road, Baguio City. In La Trinidad, forms are also available at PhilHealth

Service Office at Al’s Building, (beside the Benguet Provincial Capitol), Km. 6. These are also available at SM Business Center and all Bayad Centers in the region.

Interested registrants need only to fill out the PMRF and prepare to pay P360.00 during the registration day. The said payment’s breakdown is as follows: P300- one quarter’s premium contribution; P50- registration and card; and P10- collection fee. Registrants, who have more than two

dependents and want to avail card for the 3rd dependent onwards, need to pay an additional P14 for each card.

Current members who want to avail of the new card must present their ID and pay P50.00. Since the new card is to be processed in Manila, it will take a month before it will be released. PhilHealth, through its other partners (Globe and SMART) will notify the applicants when and where to claim their new ID.

For inquiries, call PhRO-CAR at 444-8361 local 4018 or visit their office.//

Dustless...from page 12

to address problems and to add to existing knowledge. In many ways, anyone can also shout, ‘Eureka! Eureka! (I found it, I found it)’ but expect good and bad feedbacks. Unfortunately, that is always the case in life anyway. Viva to all scientists, special mention to the magsasakang scientista (farmer scientists).

Don’t forget. There is one kind of wisdom anybody can have, that is allowing oneself to be changed in the name of development.

Now, I realize that wisdom doesn’t require having gray hair and long beard.Youth also have powerful wisdom. Just when they

share their lives is when their wisdom is recognized.//

Innovative Will...from page 13

selfish rather than selfless, but, selflessness can be learned through the course of time. This may happen, if and only if, majority of people around an individual, while his/her understanding about the realities in the world is being formed, teaches what selflessness is all about, in words and in deeds.

Here comes the role of the family. It has a big impact to the formation of attitude which leads to an improved life. It is hard to see the relationship of this with a very narrow perspective. But one thing is for sure; a developed personality leads to the development of the family; a family of good people would make up a developed nation; and the success of a nation would flow down to its constituents; and the cycle goes on and on.//

Breaking the Cycle from...from page 12

There will also be a change in the trading system, with farmers getting bulk of their products’ payment. Like what Dr. Salda said in an interview, the farmers deserve a bigger share on the vegetable’s payment since they worked harder than anyone for every product they sell at the market.

Meanwhile, with the new trading center, the local vegetable market will be prepared when Philippines and other ASEAN member countries become an open market in 2015. Open market would mean free flow of services, goods, investments, capital and skilled labour. When this happens, vegetables coming from different countries will tighten competition in the market. If we have quality products, specifically vegetables, we would be confident that our local producers will be able to compete equally in the market.//

Prov’l capitol bldg undergoes construction ...from page 9

This October, the phase 1V improvement will now start. The twenty percent of the General Development Fund of 2011 will be allotted for this. The project will cover the comfort rooms and offices in the building.

According to Dean Mark D. Monang, administrative officer

II, some parts of the capitol were renovated before, but not the building as a whole. Also, offices were not uniformly designed.

“Now it feels comfortable because our office is newly renovated. Also, it is pleasing to the eye since the design of the entire building is uniform,” added Monang.

“The capitol is looking good now. It looks like a newly built building. However, I suggest that they put railings beside the stairs for us elders to hold when going up,” said Fidelio Malute, a 57 years old from Mankayan who visits the building more often //

Revisiting indigenous games of

IGOROTSIndigenous games help in the

improvement, if not, maintenance of good attitude. Players value trust worthiness, honesty, keeping promises, loyalty, sportsmanship and inayan (fear). Inculcating these values can cause the younger generation control their tempers and display politeness and being civil.

This was revealed in the doctorate study conducted by Vicky Cadaleg Madangeng titled, “Cordillera Indigenous Games and the Enculturation of Value from the Perspective of Art Philosophy.”

Many indigenous games are part of the Cordillerans’ daily life with no age limit or any physical basis except for some communities influenced by other provinces. These games can develop skills that can be used in a harsh environment.

In the study, the indigenous games revealed are bultong (wrestling- Ifugao and Mountain Province), bibbitnag (thigh slapping- Kalinga, Apayao and Mountain Province), akad or amadjang (stilt race- all provinces), bai-laki (piggyback ride race- Mountain Province), binalsig (wood chopping- Mt. Province, Ifugao and Kalinga), dangdangpi (leg wrestling- Mt.

Province), gatin (kicking fight contest- Mt. Province), ginnayang (spear throwing- Mt. Province).

In addition, Guyyudan (tug of war- all provinces), haggul or sanngol (arm wrestling- all provinces), hinnukting (rooster fighting- Ifugao), galgaldo (same with jack stone but with the use of sticks- Mt. Province), lip-lip-ay (lipay seed game- Mt. Province and Abra), munbayo (rice pounding contest- Mt. Province and Kalinga), punnok (ritual after bountiful harvest- Ifugao), tinnolodan (wood jostling- children in the Cordillera), and folod di ka-iw (log pushing contest- Mt. Province). These were the indigenous games

BY CAROL BAG-AYAN

played by our ancestors before, thus, some of it no longer exist.

The study reveals that the ways of playing these games between towns of the same district are different from each other. However, these indigenous games did not influence most Cordilleran people that much. Though, some were just replaced with modern names like tae kwon do, marathons and others. Hence, communities in Cordillera are trying to preserve and promote these games.

The researcher recommends that indigenous games should be included in the official list of laro

ng lahi; included in the physical education (PE) curriculum and in the values formation subjects; must be recognized and preserved as cultural heritage by the institutional bodies supported by LGU’s deliberated, preserved and promoted. Also, it is recommended that Cordillera youth need to understand the concept of the games and acknowledge the cultures and preserved traditions that are inherited from our forefathers.//


Under the Outstanding Public Official and Employee or Dangal ng Bayan Award, two from Benguet made it to the regional level where one emerged as one of the national finalists.

Edgar Madlaing, Master Teacher I at the Benguet National High School (BNHS), successfully made it to the national level for his various community involvements.

Meanwhile, John Malis, the local hero who saved a little girl from drowning at the Balili River during the height of Pepeng’s fury in 2009, was among the regional Dangal ng Bayan finalists.

Madlaing, Malis and Salda joined the other regional finalists in receiving the awards during the Regional Parangal held at the Heritage Hotel in Baguio City.

Meanwhile, there is still no exact date for the National Parangal as the result of the Lingkod Bayan award is still unknown.

Yearly, the Civil Service Commission conducts the Search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees as part of the commission’s advocacy of promoting a culture of excellence and of recognizing and rewarding women and men for outstanding work performance, contribution and superior accomplishments or for consistent manifestation of exemplary ethical behavior in the public service.

Meeting the Lingkod Bayan awardee

The Presidential or Lingkod Bayan Award, which is the highest award, is given to an individual or groups of individuals for exceptional contributions resulting from an idea or performance that had nationwide impact on public interest, security and patrimony. The contribution may be a suggestion, innovation, invention or superior accomplishment.

Salda’s contribution in the food processing industry earned her the nomination of BSU’s PRAISE committee. She pioneered the vegetable processing technology which has helped farmers the not only

in Cordillera but in other regions as well.

The technology which Salda initiated processes various vegetables into different products such as veggie noodles, veggie breads and others. Aside from providing additional source of income for farmers, the project also created an alternative market or outlet for farmers.

Sacla was also nominated for the same award in 2005 where she emerged as one of the national awardees. That time, it was the yam network which she initiated that won her the award. She served as the bridge between the producers and processors of yam, and promoted yam as a major crop.

Dangal ng Bayan awardeesThe Outstanding Public

Officials and Employees Award or the Dangal ng Bayan Award is given to an individual for performance of extraordinary act or public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior on the basis of his/her observance of the eight norms of behavior provided by the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees” namely: commitment to public interest, professionalism, justness and sincerity, political neutrality, responsiveness to the public, nationalism and patriotism, commitment to democracy, and simple living.

The above qualifications made Madlaing and Malis to the list of this year’s regional awardees.

In 2009, after the onslaught of typhoon Pepeng which has caused major landslide in the province where more than a hundred died, Madlaing led his students and other volunteers to pack relief goods for victims while he headed the team in a rescue and retrieval operation for the families affected by the massive landslide in Little Kibungan and in Buyagan, La Trinidad. They even went as far as Sto. Nino in Tublay, Benguet.

As head of the CAT at BCNH, he mobilized his students to be involved in various community activities such

as the adoption of forest in Longlong, La Trinidad where they made fire lines and planted trees, and the zero dust program of LT Councilor Kipas.

He also organized a fun run for a former student in BNHS who had a stage three cancer, and a campaign run for his batch mate who had heart disease.

Madlaing shared that he never thought of any award whenever he helped other people or whenever he organized his students to join community works. Helping people in need is a natural response from him for it had been his orientation when he worked at Good Shepherd in Baguio during his college years and when he took Air Force Science at the Philippine Air Force. He also wanted to instill the spirit of volunteerism among his students as he recognized the energy and potential of the youth to work for the progress of the community.

Even if reluctant about the nomination as confirmed by Mr. Glenn Duguis, administrative officer five of DepEd, Benguet Division who nominated him, Madlaing sees the award as a “blessing because of the many little things we have been doing.”

Meanwhile, John Malis, water resources facilities operator at the La Trinidad Water District (LTWD), was not expecting any award when he bravely jumped at the Balili River to save two little girls who were carried by the river on August 16, 2009. Even if he was not able to save the two children, he is happy to save at least one life.

“I am not worthy of being nominated because one has to posses the eight norms of being a government employee and I don’t posses those qualities,” says Malis on being nominated and on winning in the regional level. However, LTWD General Manager Oliver Taule who nominated Malis says otherwise.

“His feat is extraordinary because he risked his life to save the life of the child which is not part of his duty as an operator,” Taule shared.//

On August 24, 2011, the coalition of public and private institutions in Baguio City and La Trinidad gathered at Benguet State University (BSU) to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Balili River System Revitalization Project.

The project aims to register the river as a Water Quality Management Area (WQMA) through Environmental Management Bureau-Department of Environment and Natural Resources (EMB-DENR) within three years, from 2011-2014.

The MOU was signed by La Trinidad Mayor Gregorio T. Abalos; La Trinidad ABC President, Robert M. Namoro; Benguet Board Member Nelson Dangwa; DPWH (Benguet 1st District) Representative Engineer Albert Gahi; City Government of Baguio Representative Rafael Tallocoy; University of the Cordilleras (UC) representative Dr. Ricardo Pama; representative of Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Susan Aro; Chancellor of UP-Baguio Dr. Prescilla S. Macansantos and BSU Executive Vice President Dr. Alfredo C. Tipayno.

The signing of the MOU was witnessed by City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) Department Head Cordelia Lacsamana and Edna Tabanda, private sector representative, among others.

According to the witnesses, the people are the one affected by this scenario. Thus, they highlighted that the community of Baguio and La Trinidad, especially residents along the river, must cooperate and contribute to the success of the said project.

The said project is a combination of private and public sectors including the academe and industrial sectors.

On the government sector, twelve agencies including the LGU’s of Baguio City and La Trinidad, the CEPMO-Baguio City, La Trinidad and Baguio City’s Engineering Office, Associations of Barangay Captains, Environment and Management Bureau of Department of Natural Resources –CAR, Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Baguio City and La Trinidad’s Water District, DPWH-CAR and Office of the Governor-Benguet joined.

Meanwhile, the academe sector is composed of five universities: Benguet State University, Saint Louis University, University of the Cordilleras, University of Baguio and UP-Baguio. Private and industrial sector include BENECO, HEDCOR Inc. and Smart Communication network and the Philippine Health Social Science Association.

Ways and expected resultsThe different public and private

institutions of Baguio and Benguet re-discussed the strategies addressed to environmental and social problems associated with Balili River on July 27, 2011. They were able to come up with five key result areas with activities to be pursued by designated agencies.

Enhanced data on Balili River is the first thing these institutions have to look into. To have this result, they are to do the following activities: (1) Develop a compendium of researches and undertake a meta-analysis of past studies; (2) Data gathering to fulfill

Restoring Balili River... from page 1

the requirements of a Water Quality Management Area (WQMA); (3) Survey on the level of awareness of households and students; (4) Policy assessment of national and local news; (5) Identification of drivers of pollution; and (6) Biodiversity resources.

Second is improving governance on the Balili River with activities which are: (1) Proposal making/preparations for the designation of Balili River as WQMA, (2) Identification of commitments; signing of a memorandum of Agreement among stakeholders to launch and pursue the project.

Third is heightened level of awareness of the importance and significance of a rehabilitated Balili River. The supplementing activities are: (1) Workshops on behavioral change; and, (2) Development and production of IEC materials-(Documentary on the BR status, outputs from the September workshop, Balili River Learning Resource Center, regular Kapihan press releases).

Fourth is reduced dumping of waste (solid, liquid and infectious). To come up with this, activities to be done are: (1) establishment of a Material Recovery Facility; (2) grouping of Barangays along the Sagudin River and Balili River and creation of the stewards of Balili River (Bantay Ilog); and (3) Implementation of Existing policies related to proper waste disposal.

Last thing for the group to look into is the improvement of vegetation and infrastructures with the construction of flood control, river park and sewage system of La Trinidad. This will be done after the conduction of a feasibility study by the SLU School of Engineering.

The flood control construction started on May 2, 2011.

“Though, we have problems aside from weather concerning the flood control construction, we still hope that we’ll finish it in the middle or last week of November,” said Engineer Joseph Dejesa, in-charge of the Balili River construction.

Campaign strategies To increase people’s awareness,

the first ever Balili Day was pushed through on September 16, 2011. Tree planting and clean up drives along the Balili River banks followed after the simultaneous motorcade which started in Baguio and La Trinidad. Also, the drainage for irrigations of agricultural plants were monitored and fixed.

On October 7, 2011 various contests in relation to saving the river were launched to heighten the rehabilitation campaigns. With the theme “Save Balili River, Count me in,” contests on logo design, jingle, poster and slogan, and mascot design were done.

“Clean up drive by the students is not enough to solve the problem of Balili River, in other words, it should be faced holistically,” said Constantino Sudaypan, NSTP-coordinator of BSU. He further explained that it should be a concerted effort among community residents, Local Government Units, Government Line Agencies, Educational Institutions and other concerned groups. It also needs functional and directed advocacy to revitalize the river.//

Puregold opens job opportunities for LT residents...from page 1

LT prepares for add’l waste land fill ...from page 1

the local producers of strawberry products to help advertise the town product and the municipality itself.

As of press time, the company started catering to job applicants. There were 1,447 applicants of which 478 males and 969 females were interviewed for the 152 job vacancies. Interview was conducted at the municipality gym on September 7 to 9, 2011.

The building construction

started on February 18, 2011 and is expected to operate come November this year.

Construction and requirementsAccording to Engr. Aaron

Pineda, civil and structural engineer, the building has a floor plan of 2 100 square meters and has a budget of approximately 46.8 million pesos for civil and structural works.The general contractor of the project is

the P.G Arnaiz, based in Manila.Pineda assured that the

requirements of establishing a building was met.

“Before a certain individual can build its own business establishment, applicants must submit the application of building permit, tax declaration, evidence of owning the land (the land must be titled), tax of the land, blocking plans, locational clearances and the lease agreement between the

owner and applicant (if for lease),” he explained.

Aside from the requirements stated above, they are also expected to responsibly follow the approved

plans and specifications of the project.

This supermarket is owned by Lucio Tan, same corporate owner of Puregold-Baguio.//

Cosalan, Waste Management Committee in-charge in Alno, is requesting for the garbage to be sprayed with housefly or langaw killer because of the numerous houseflies in the dumpsite.

Kagawad Amando Dagadag Jr., the chair on Health Public Sanitation and Nutrition Committee said that these houseflies may bring diseases to the community such as diarrhea, malaria and dengue fever.

This is approved by Veronica Tactay, Medical Technologist saying it is true that these houseflies can cause such sickness because they are vectors (carriers) of different diseases.

Langato, however, opposed the recommended spraying because it might kill the scavengers also.

Civil Service awards 3 Benguet public servants ... from page 1

Scavengers, though, are not supposed to be seen in the site because biodegradable wastes are supposed to be not present in the area as stated in the Municipal Ordinance No.53-98 (Providing for a Comprehensive Solid Waste Management of the Municipality of La Trinidad, Benguet). Furthermore, a Memorandum of Agreement between Alno Local Government Unit and the municipal LGU stated that only residual waste will be disposed at Induyan.

However, due to the non-compliance of the La Trinidad residents in segregating their garbage, scavengers are now allowed because they help in reducing the volume of the waste in Alno, said Langato.

“Although we are very proud that we have a sanitary land fill, this will not solve the problem.

The dumpsite in Alno will continue to accumulate garbage. After 10 years, the dumpsite will be full, and we have to look for another place to build new sanitary land fill. The problem posed now is that will we be able to look for a place for this? The government will be hard up in looking for a place because imagine, we waited for three years for the sociability acceptance of the said land fill at Alno.”

With this, LT-LGU advises the public to internalize waste segregation by starting in their own houses.//

JUMP PAGE

AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 AG S H A N Community NewspaperAUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 37AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011 ADVERTISEMENT

38 AG S H A N Community Newspaper AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011AUGUST- OCTOBER 2011ADVERTISEMENT


POWERSUSTAINS LIVESBRIGHTENSF U T U R E

Quality of Service is our way of

Life


LINDA’S PoulTry suPPly

Agshan Community Newspaper

Documents

Transcript of Agshan Community Newspaper