Our next Balik-Mindoro in Mindoro will now be in 2 0 1 1 !!! |
|||
Classmates forever ! HIA Class 60 had another reunion last February 13 in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. As shown in the picture, a vibrant group celebrated it with a mass at the Pachoca church, also in Calapan City. Congratulations to you, all, for another job well done ! On some miscellaneous items, we take note of the following : Robinson's mall will soon rise at the Xevera Neo Calapan in Nacoco, Calapan City, next to Filipiniana Hotel. It will start the coming in of private investments in Calapan City. Barangay Health Center and/or Multi-purpose Hall was recently inaugurated in Tiguisan, Pinamalayan , Oriental Mindoro. Rachel Ann Bustamante of Victoria, Or. Mindoro will join the Bb. Pilipinas 2010 pageant as one of the candidates vying for Binibining Pilipinas 2010 title. The pageant will be held on March 6 at the Araneta Coliseum. Rachel was our Miss Oriental Mindoro 2008. Shopping in the Philippines --- an added tourists attraction ! The Dept. of Tourism has launced the Mabuhay Shopping Spree to project the Philippines as an exciting shopping and entertainment destination. DOT offers attractions like health and medical, adventure, ecotourism, cultural and historical landmarks. May 10 election is fast approaching and in Mndoro, candidates for Congressman (1st and 2nd district) , Governor, Vice Governor, Mayors, Vice Mayors, Councilors and provincial board members are now getting ready for their hectic campaign schedules. We hope to release official candidates soon for everyone to be able to campaign and support their chosen ones back home. |
|||
Posted 2/14/10 Lion dancers parade in Manila's Chinatown to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year and welcome the Year of the Tiger. THE COLOR OF RED The Chinese have known it since forever, so it has always been the major color at the start of each New Year, during weddings, at happy celebration occasions and to contain money when giving it as gifts to one's loved ones. Red Envelopes/Red Packets (or Hong Bao) are always red in color. So when anyone wants extra lucks in their lives, this is the color they call on. The color of red is the purest Yang and signifies the Fire element whose energy rises upwards, brings fame, attracts a good name and welcomes honor into your life....so it is the all-time lucky color! |
|||
Lucky You ! For a mere P20, a lone bettor from the 2nd district of Quezon City won Thursday's SuperLotto jackpot prize of P201,473,805.60 but has yet to claim the money. No one has gone to the PCSO office in Quezon City to get the prize. The winning combination numbers 5-10-16-29-38-48 was won through a "lucky pick" or a system-generated selection of numbers.
|
|||
A total of 37,527 out of 94,462nursing graduates passed the November 2009 licensure examination, for a 39.73 percent passing rate.Most of those who garnered the 10 highest scores came from schoolsoutside Metro Manila. The examinees who posted the 10 highest scores were: 1. Clarie Morales Bontol of Iligan Medical Center College, Inc. (87.80%)
Four tied for sixth place (86.20), five for seventh place (86.00), nine for eighth place (85.80), 11 for ninth place (85.60), and 11 for 10th place (85.40). Those who garnered the 6th to 10th places were: 6. (86.20) Greatsky Calayag Castuciano of Our Lady of Fatima University-Valenzuela; Jobilee Sahagun Foronda of De Los Santos-STI College, Inc-(Delos Santos S.N.); Donald Bancud Paloma of St. Paul University-Tuguegarao; Karla Andrea Corneja Yap of University of St. La Salle 7. (86.00) Chastine De la Cruz Jambalos of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila; Felina Joyce Llamado Posadas of St. Paul University-Iloilo; Perla Bargo Santiago of St. Dominic Savio College; Camille Abiera Sistoso of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila; Dennis Michael Esteban Zequerra of Cotabato Medical Foundation College 8. (85.80) Joanna Marie Sajise Alvaro of Central Philippine University; Karen Lim Cheng of Xavier University; Krizzia Mae Villareal de Guzman of Our Lady of Fatima University-Valenzuela; Richard William Dulalas Domondon of Ramon Magsaysay Technological University-Iba; Angelo Garcia Galvan of Central Luzon Doctor’s Hospital Educational Institution; Lilia Calle Piramide of St. Dominic Savio College; Robert Carandang Reña of Lyceum of Batangas; Vyklyn Jimeno Testa of Aklan State University (Aklan S.C.A.-Banga); Cornelio Cezail Flores Villanueva of Mabini College 9. (85.60) Sheila Perico Casano of Our Lady of Fatima University-Valenzuela; Krystle Go Din of St. Paul University-Iloilo; John Stephen Tiongson Humiwat of St. Mary’s University; Woodrose Charm Paciente Kwan of Dr. Carlos S. Lanting College-QC; Nerissa Naval Layag of St. Dominic Savio College; Kristin Angeli Pastor Legislador of University of St. La Salle; Myrtle Shekinah Cabuyao Lopez of Southern Luzon Polytechnic College-Lucban; Suzanne Joie Napod Maño of Adventist University of the Philippines; Manelee Pescadilla Mijares of University of St. La Salle; Juan Alfred Germino Norte of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila; Garlene Anne Estanislao Rebollos of Sultan Kudarat Educational Institution 10. (85.40) Joanna Iris Lee Avena of St. Paul University-Iloilo; Erwin Garces Bodiongan of Misamis University-Ozamis City ; Steve Oliver Yap Coo of Central Philippine University; Stephen Albert Lim de Castro of Southern Luzon Polytechnic College-Lucban; Princess Camille Rodriguez de Guzman of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila; Felamie Anne Vigo Ducotan of St. Paul University-Iloilo ; Mary Kristine Teraza Labanta of St. Scholastica’s College of Health Sciences-Tacloban; Giselle Dawn Vijar Mamaril of West Visayas State University-La Paz; Samuel John Sayoc Saludez of St. Paul University-Tuguegarao; Angelo John Villasana Tacuban of West Negros College; Maria Cecilia Cervantes Tejedor of St. Dominic Savio College..... |
|||
Posted 1/22/10 Ocean City expects to benefit from the sister-city relations by expanding its network and contacts with tens of thousands of Filipinos residing in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Delaware. The city wants to position itself as an attractive destination for Filipino-American families, especially during summer and vacation seasons when as much as 100,000 local tourists visit the city to enjoy its beaches, boardwalk, and other amusement and entertainment places. Following the formalization of the sister-city relations, Ocean City will honor the Philippines in a two-day tribute entitled “Ocean City Salutes the Philippines” to be held on 26-27 June 2010 at the Music Pier of Ocean City boardwalk. The tribute, to be highlighted by Philippine trade fair, tourism exhibit and musical performance, will expose the Philippines to Ocean City’s regular tourists. Philippine made-crafts will be showcased and sold at the event. Likewise, the tourism exhibit will feature the many attractive tourist destinations in the Philippines. Filipino-American entertainers, singers and dance groups will also perform at the musical concert to be held on the night of 26 June. While Ocean City has year-long activities, it will mark the first time that it will feature a country. Mr. Rene Sese, a Filipino-American resident of Ocean City who was born in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro was instrumental in making the sister-city relations possible. A promoter and entertainer by profession who was recently designated as Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Ambassador for Tourism, Mr. Sese will help in the preparations for the two-day tribute for the Philippines in coordination with the Ocean City’s Chamber of Commerce and City Council and with the New York-based Philippine Consulate General, Philippine Trade and Investment Center and the Philippine Department of Tourism. Officials of the Philippine Consulate General New York, led by Consul General Cecille Rebong, traveled to Ocean City on 14 January 2010 to meet with Ocean City Mayor Sal Perillo, Mr. Mark Soifer (Ocean City Public Relations Director), the officers and members of the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Mr. Sese. They also discussed the preparations for the two-day tribute for the Philippines in June 2010. For more information about Ocean City’s two-day tribute for the Philippines, interested parties may contact Mr. Mark Soifer at (+609)-525-9300 or msoifer@hotmail.com, Mr. Rene Sese at (+609) 398-3342 or RSamermanila@yahoo.com or Consul Zaldy Patron at (+212) 764-1330 ext. 602 or newyork@pcgny.net. Relevant information about Ocean City may be obtained at http://www.oceancitychamber.com/default.asp.
|
|||
Posted 1/6/10 In February last year, two winners from the cities of Pasig and Caloocan shared a whopping P347 million, the biggest prize in SuperLotto history.In May, two winners from Sta. Maria, Bulacan, and Pateros, Metro Manila, split the P188-million jackpot.In September, a 44-year-old taxi driver, who placed only P60 in bets, took home P150.9 million for his wife and three children.The second biggest SuperLotto jackpot ever went to a 61-year-old construction worker from Novaliches, Quezon City, who took the P249-million prize in April. Congratulations to past and present winners ! |
|||
|
|||
Posted December 31, 2009 We wish you a Happy New Year wherever you may be these days ! Enjoy your time off, the company of your loved ones, shopping and eating. See you again next year....January 1, that is ! Thank you all for visiting our Mindoro www.mindorousa.com site . Hope you will continue checking what's the latest in Mindoro. Salamat po ! This collection of parols made of capiz are now on display at the Philippine Center lobby in New York City. It catches attention on Fifth Avenue and we truly enjoyed the different designs dedicated to the Filam community in the East Coast. |
|||
Posted 12/27/09 46 persons are still missing after a Roll-On/Roll-Off ferry MV Baleno sank off Isla Verde, between Batangas City and Calapan City last Saturday, Manila time. Total on board was 88. Some of the survivors said that water seeped into the ferry's bow causing the ferry to tilt on the side and eventually sink. Philippine Coast Guard station also said MV Balleno, an inter-island ferry, was hit by big waves causing it to sink. MV Balleno is operated by Besta Shipping Lines and has a capacity of 250. It left Calapan City at 9:18 PM Saturday, Manila time. On a happy note, a Max's Restaurant , Filipino Food Chain, was opened in Calapan City on December 1 with Elsie Basco, MD and Wilfredo Aceveda, Branch Manager as the key people managing this 115th Branch in the Philippines. |
|||
Posted 12/21/09 Fifty two (52) senior citizens were among the graduates of the Language Learning Program - Plus at St. Benedictine Nuns Monastery, Barangay Salong, Calapan City last December 11, 2009. Other trainees finished the Specialized English Enhancement Course for Elementary and High School Teachers and Other Language Users, English Language Proficiency, and Finishing Course for Call Center Agents. DepEd Oriental Mindoro, DepEd Calapan City and the Federation of Senior Citizens Association Calapan City (FESCACC) participated in this undertaking. The Provincial Government of Oriental Mindoro thru Governor Arnan C. Panaligan, TESDA, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, and Malampaya Joint Ventures were the principal sponsors of the program. The free Basic IT Training for Senior Citizens is the first in the region if not in the country. According to Panaligan, the training for senior citizens will resume next year. This is in tune with the government programs for graceful aging. Do not be surprise if very soon you will be chatting with any of them in the internet and exchanging views with them in your facebook.Meanwhile, last December 12, FESCACC and the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) Oriental Mindoro Chapter together with their junior campus members from Divine World College of Calapan (DWCC) signed a memorandum of agreement for the latter to prepare a perspective and structural plan for a senior citizens’ complex in a one hectare lot. It will house the office, social hall, home for the aged, with provisions for retirement home and a mini green park. Oscar E. Ricaflanca, FESCACC President, represented the seniors while PICE President Engr. Jaime Tolentino and Engr. Aiza Sobrepena, student adviser for PICE, represented the group of civil engineers. The signing was witnessed by the FESCACC Board of Directors and civil engineering students from DWCC.According to Ricaflanca who was elected FESCACC president barely 7 months ago, senior citizens can now buy their one month maintenance medicines at a 20% discounts from any drugstore chain in Calapan City. Before, seniors were only allowed one week medicine supply at 20% discounts. Following a couple of letters to the management of these drugstore chain requesting considerations particularly for those residing in far off towns and barangays, seniors are now allowed to enjoy this great benefit.
Ricaflanca also disclosed what he learned about Section 32 of the General Appropriation Act (GAA) which provides for 1% budget allocation for programs and services for Older Persons (OPs) and People with Disabilities (PWSs). This, he added, is to be taken from the annual Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) of the local government units. (LGU). This revelation should translate to more projects to benefit our senior citizens.
Ricaflanca, who was at one time the Barangay Chairman of Libis, Calapan City, has done remarkable projects in his community. Libis is the only barangay in the island of Mindoro that complies to RA 9003 otherwise known as Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. They collect segregated waste daily from every household in their barangay using tribikes. Biodegradable waste are then grinded with a grinding machine and are processed as organic fertilizer while recyclables are sold to junkshops. The project was funded by Malampaya Joint Venture Partners in coordination with Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. During his tenure, he solicited the help of PICE thru their DWCC chapter to conduct a topographic and demographic survey of the barangay. He was also the official who commissioned the design of the barangay’s website.
|
|||
Mindorenos in NYC and tri-state area sponsored the 7th Simbang Gabi sa Konsulado (NY) last night at the Philippine Center on Fifth Avenue, Manhattan, New York. It was their annual sponsorship in the seven-night Simbang Gabi at the Consulate. Attendees were Ambassador Hilario Davide, Jr, and wife, Gigi, Consul General of the Philippines, Cecille Rebong and visiting Vice Gov. Estee Aceron Bisnar with husband, Capt. Chito Bisnar. Officers and members of the Mindoro attended, as well. This traditional Simbang Gabi, now on its 24th year, is a regular event for all Filipinos in NY, NJ and nearby states. Parols made of capiz and paper artwork are now on display at the lobby of the Philippine Center in Manhattan. Some of the Calapenos who attended last night were Oscar Canete, Claire Mendoza, Feliciana Dakis, to name a few. Other Mindoro towns were also represented i.e. Andrea Ampara Mahiya of Baco, Wilma Py Ababon of San Teodoro, Ronald Labaguis of Pinamalayan, and Ivy of Roxas. A little salu-salo with "hamon" was enjoyed by all after the Mass, with Vice Gov. entertaining Mindorenos and non-Mindorenos, as well. From all of us in the East Coast, to all Mindorenos worldwide, Happy Holidays ! |
|||
Goodbye, 2 0 0 9 and Hello, 2 0 1 0 !!! |
|||
Posted 12/11/09
The province of Occidental Mindoro has passed an ordinance banning large-scale mining in the province for 25 years, a local news site reported Friday. On its website, The Mindoro Post reported that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the province passed the ordinance last November 23 and was signed into law by Governor Josephine Ramirez-Sato on November 27. The province of Oriental Mindoro also passed a similar mining ban in 2002. Occidental Mindoro in its edict bans “land clearing, prospecting, exploration, drilling, excavation, mining, transport of mineral ores and products and such other activities in furtherance of and/or preparatory to all kinds and forms of large-scale mining in the province of Occidental Mindoro for a period of 25 years.”Sato said the mining moratorium “is a manifestation of our inherent right to self determination.” “The people of Occidental Mindoro believe that a strong agriculture is the backbone of our economy. We have brought our agricultural productivity to a level higher than that of national average yield,”The ordinance was passed even as three large-scale mining firms were given clearances by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to explore mineral resources on the island, The Mindoro Post said. It cited the need to protect Occidental Mindoro’s ecology, noting the poor environmental record of large-scale mines in the Philippines. |
|||
Posted 11/30/09 The DENR Special Order signed Friday by Atienza temporarily revoked the ECC issued to Intex Resources last October 14."In the interest of the service and in view of the seriousness or the allegations attendant to ECC-CO-094-007-2721 dated October 14, 2009 issued by this Department in favor of Intex Resources for the Nickel Mining Project in the Provinces of Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, the ECC is hereby temporarily revoked pending completion of a thorough and impartial investigation that will validate all allegations," the order said. Last week, the hunger strikers that included priests briefly ended their fast and rejoiced when they thought the ECC had been indefinitely suspended. They later found out that Atienza merely issued a 90-day suspension order. Thus the hunger strikers resumed their protest.On Friday, Atienza admitted to anti-mining advocates, bishops, the clergy and religious present that there was a lapse in the process of issuing the said ECC."May pagkukulang," (There was a lapse), he said, adding that he wanted to know why the ECC was issued despite the fact that the proposed mining project was in a watershed area."They told a lie," Atienza said without naming who misled him into signing the ECC. "There must be punishment." But Atienza also stressed that due process must be followed, hence the "temporary revocation.""We have to investigate, we have to prove that this is in a watershed area. It is not enough to cancel," he said. The temporary revocation, Atienza assured, meant that "nothing should move." Atienza called for the creation of an "independent, impartial investigating" group which will include civil society groups and representatives of the indigenous communities of Mindoro to examine the serious allegations of the protestors.The report and conclusion of the investigation shall be submitted to Atienza 15 days after the completion of the task and will be "the basis of resolving the issues surrounding the ECC."
|
|||
Posted 11/23/09 Efren Peñaflorida, who started a "pushcart classroom" in the Philippines to bring education to poor children as an alternative to gang membership, has been named the 2009 CNN Hero of the Year.CNN's Anderson Cooper revealed Peñaflorida's selection at the conclusion of the third-annual "CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute" at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood on Saturday night. The gala event, taped before an audience of 3,000 at the Kodak Theatre, premieres on Thanksgiving, November 26, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on the global networks of CNN. The broadcast, which honors the top 10 CNN Heroes of 2009, features performances by Grammy Award-winning artist Carrie Underwood, R&B crooner Maxwell and British pop sensation Leona Lewis. Peñaflorida, who will receive $100,000 to continue his work with the Dynamic Teen Company, was selected after seven weeks of online voting at CNN.com. More than 2.75 million votes were cast. "Our planet is filled with heroes, young and old, rich and poor, man, woman of different colors, shapes and sizes. We are one great tapestry," Peñaflorida said upon accepting the honor. "Each person has a hidden hero within, you just have to look inside you and search it in your heart, and be the hero to the next one in need.  Gallery: CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute Video: CNN Hero of the Year named"So to each and every person inside this theater and for those who are watching at home, the hero in you is waiting to be unleashed. Serve, serve well, serve others above yourself and be happy to serve. As I always tell to my co-volunteers ... you are the change that you dream, as I am the change that I dream, and collectively we are the change that this world needs to be." The top 10 CNN Heroes, chosen by a blue-ribbon panel from an initial pool of more than 9,000 viewer nominations, were each honored with a documentary tribute and introduced by a celebrity presenter. Each of the top 10 Heroes receives $25,000.
|
|||
http://mindorocybermovement.wordpress.com/ |
|||
Posted 11/7/09
Mindoro execs threaten to sue Atienza over ‘patently illegal’ mining clearance . MANILA, Philippines—(UPDATE) The two governors of Mindoro island have threatened to sue Environment Secretary Lito Atienza for a “patently illegal” issuance of an environmental clearance to a Norway-based mining firm.Governor Arnan Panaligan on Friday said Atienza issued the environmental compliance certificate (ECC) to Intex Resources Philippines even as “the proposed mining area is encompassed in a critical watershed area that the Mining Act itself declares as off limits to any mining activity.” Occidental Mindoro Governor Josephine Ramirez-Sato said however they needed to exhaust other legal remedies before going to court.“We are still studying what we can do because we can’t go to court without exhausting other available legal remedies,” said Sato.“We are now gathering (pieces of) evidence so we could launch our legal action,” she said. Panaligan said they were looking into the possible administrative and criminal liabilities of Atienza in doing the “unjust action.”“The destruction of our watershed areas will deprive our people of sources of water for drinking and irrigation purposes. More seriously, the destruction of critical watershed will lead to disastrous flooding that will kill our people and destroy our communities,” he said.
|
|||
Mabuhay!!!!
san po ay patuloy nating suportahn ang galing at husay ng kabataang pinoy ..
mabuhay ang taga mindoro..
maraming salamat po ,
lito o napolitano
|
|||
http://earthjedi.blogspot.com/ (visit this site, too) CALAPAN CITY – Around two thousand (2,000) Mindorenos from different sectors staged a mock funeral procession for Intex Resources and Secretary Joselito Atienza of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to protest against the ill-omened issuance of the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) of Intex Mindoro Nickel Project. Coffins marked with INTEX logo and photos of DENR Secretary Atienza, were paraded in the procession coinciding with the traditional celebration of All Souls’ Day. The event signified the grave dismay of civil society organizations including the Catholic Church together with the local government, led by Governor Arnan Panaligan, Congressman Alfonso Umali, Jr., Mayor Alfredo Ortega Jr. of Victoria, Mayor Doy Leachon of Calapan, together with the Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ang Sanggunian Bayan of Victoria, and other prominent political leaders of the province. Priests came in their cassock bearing anti-mining placards. Bishop Warlito I. Cajandig also delivered his message during the program, challenging the people to hold on to their faith and to strengthen their ranks against those who are using money as bait to accept mining. Fr. Edu Gariguez of Alyansa Laban sa Mina (ALAMIN) slammed DENR Secretary Atienza because he railroaded the issuance of ECC on October 14, 2009 during the massive flooding incidents, which recently happened in Marikina, Antipolo, Rizal and Northern Luzon. These calamities should have prompted Secretary Atienza to think twice before granting the ECC to INTEX considering that Mindoro is an Island Province, with very fragile ecosystems.” “The ECC gave the green light to Intex Resources to proceed with the implementation of the mining operations in the municipalities of Victoria, Oriental Mindoro and Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro despite the lack of ‘social license’ from the local governments”, added Gariguez. |
|||
Posted 10/23/09
Mindoro Mining - The people of Mindoro are furious with the DENR’s approval of Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) for the operation of the Mindoro Nickel Project by Intex Resources.To express our protest, from November 17 onwards, volunteer-campaigners mostly from Alyansa Laban sa Mina (ALAMIN) will hold a HUNGER STRIKE AND FASTING, in front of the DENR Building in Visayas Avenue, Quezon City. There are already 25 persons who are determined to fast or not to take anything except water, while holding a peaceful vigil in front of the DENR to manifest the protest of the people of Mindoro against the questionable and spurious approval of ECC to Intex Resources by the DENR.
The said hunger strike is planned to be held for indefinite number of days until the ECC is reconsidered and revoked by DENR Secretary Atienza.
On the first day of the vigil (November 17), the 25 hunger strikers will be joined by representatives from the local government units both from Occidental and Oriental Mindoro. The presence and participation of the following local government officials are expected but still to be confirmed, namely: Governor Arnan Panaligan (Oriental), Governor Josephine Ramirez-Sato (Occidental), Vice Governor Estella Aceron (Oriental), Vice Governor Mario Gadiano (Occidental), The Municipal Government of Victoria led by Mayor Alfredo Ortega and Vice Mayor Luis Castillet, the Municipal Government of Sablayan led by Mayor Godofredo Mintu and Vice Mayor Eduardo Gadiano, and other LGU officials.
On the second day of the vigil (November 18), the 25 fasters will be joined by the representatives from the Church, the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan led by Bishop Warlito Cajandig and the Apostolic Vicariate of San Jose. The attendance of the two bishops is still to be confirmed. But priest and sisters from the two Vicariates have expressed their willingness to join the vigil and peaceful prayer protest. Seminarians too from stakeholder provinces will join the second day vigil. Bishop Broderick Pabillo of the CBCP-NASSA will be invited to celebrate the Eucharist for the group.
On the 3rd and 4th day of the vigil (November 19 and 20), the 25 hunger strikers will be joined by representatives of peasant group coming from Mindoro and other parts of the region to express their solidarity being one of the primary sectors that will be affected by the mining project. The national peasant federation of PAKISAMA is to be invited, along with other organized peasant groups.
On the 5th day of vigil (November 21), the 25 hunger strikers will be joined by the civil society organizations led by Alyansa Tigil Mina. Other development, HR and environmental organizations to be invited include: LRC-KsK, Philippine Misereor Partnership (PMP), PANLIPI, Ateneo Human Rights Center, ULAN, Haribon, among others. Fr. Robert Reyes will be invited to lead the prayer vigil and to do a “Takbo Alay Para sa Kalikasan” along with other campaign activities.
The succeeding program of activities for the vigil and participation of other solidarity groups/sectors days will be arranged in coordination with Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) and other Manila-based NGOs.
Please join us in this campaign to save our environment!
For more details, please contact:
Fr. Edwin A. Gariguez, ALAMIN/Mangyan Mission
Email address: edugariguez@gmail.com
|
|||
|
|||
All roads led to Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas on September 26. Over 300 guests came to celebrate the 3rd Annual Fundraising & Dinner-dance of the Association of Calapenos USA International. Jimmy Chua, president, Elsa Abilar Quindor, Vice President, Paz Castillo Iturralde, Secretary and Ball Chair, Adelmar Oliva Silvestre, Treasurer, Nestor Calata, Auditor and Vera Regis, PRO did a good job in entertaining their guests. Ruby Mendoza Navarro and husband, Louie, Myrna Masilang Vilas, Drs. Ting and Len Luna and the first lady of the evening, Prez Chua, wife of Jimmy were equally attentive to all Calapenos who arrived for this much-awaited event. |
|||
The Oriental Mindoro Electric Cooperative (Ormeco) has been granted a 400 million loan from DBP to fund the construction of the 4.2 megawatt Linao Cawayan mini-hydropower project in San Teodoro, Oriental Mindoro. The proposed mini-hydropower plant is a run-of-river type, which taps the potential of the Linao Cawayan and Alag rivers in Oriental Mindoro. It is expected to gerate an average of 109 gigawatt-hrs of electricity per year, which is equivalent to the consumption of 37,375 barrels of oil. The planned hydropower project will reduce approximately 11,409 tons of carbon dioxide output per year. Wind Power Ventures for Mindoro - Eurus Energy Japan Corp. and Korea East-West Power Co. organized the Alterenergy Philippine Investments Corp. as holding co. for possible investments in the renewable energy sector. It will study the feasibility of setting up a wind farm in Occidental Mindoro, Laguna and Rizal. |
|||
Summer is almost over. Hope you had a wonderful one ! If you live in an area where Fall is almost around, get ready for trips to places to enjoy Foliage. On another note, national election in the Philippines will be in May 2010. The Philippine Consulate General of New York has just ended their campaign for Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV). There was a big turnout yesterday at the Consulate. It was also the day when dual citizens took oath and was officially given certificates to that effect. Dual citizens and/or OAV registered Filipino citizens can now vote in the upcoming election in the national level only. Calapenos USA International is now busy preparing for its third anniversary celebration at Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas on September 26. Many Calapenos from Calapan are scheduled to fly to Las Vegas for this much-awaited event. Charo Santos will be the guest of honor. If you are interested to attend, please email gusamina@yahoo.com. |
|||
Cory C. Aquino, the first woman to lead the Philippines, had been battling colon cancer since March 2008 and died of cardio-respiratory arrest at 3:18 a.m. Saturday (3:18 p.m. Friday ET), August 1 Manila time. Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has also announced a 10-day mourning period for the former president. The political novice took over the leadership of her husband's movement after his death and challenged Marcos in a 1986 election, making a yellow dress her trademark and bolstered by the support of the country's Roman Catholic churches. |
|||
Posted 7/27/09
Please see new travel tourism website for Bulalacao that may be of interest to you. It's www.travel-bulalacao.com. New Mindoro Provincial Hospital - It was announced that the new Mindoro Provincial Hospital is now 25 % completed in its new location. On another note, P200 million was appropriated for the construction of a new public market to be done by R11 Building Inc. of Quezon City. And now for the happy event in the East Coast....The annual Mindoro picnic held in NYC was a success, again. With over hundred Mindorenos and their friends and relatives, the annual family picnic started at noon and ended around 6 pm. Naujenos, Pinamalenos, mga taga Bongabon at Calapenos all gathered in this spacios Astoria Park, complete with around 20 dishes and desserts, fruits, drinks and more. The Agudos, Uriartes, Cuetos, Agays, Mercados, Saulong, Palustres , Felix familiy , Atienzas of Pinamalayan, Pesigan of Naujan, Habats of Socorro, to name a few were glad to see old and new friends. Pictures of this event will be posted soon in our website. Thanks to all who brought food and their specialties like special bibingkang kanin of Willie Adeva. Thanks, too, for those who drove to NYC coming from as far South Jersey and Connecticut. See you , again, next year . Calapenos USA International, Inc. is reminding everyone of the upcoming 3rd Anniversary Ball in Las Vegas. It will be on September 26, Sat. at the Orleans Hotel. For reservations and other details, please email gusamina@yahoo.com or mangyan49@yahoo.com. See you all in Las Vegas ! |
|||
Cheers for the Association of Calapenos USA (International) based in Northern California!!! Jimmy Chua, president, is proud to announce their upcoming third Annual Fundraising and Dinner Ball on September 26. It will be at the Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas. In an effort to reach out to other Calapenos, they hold their annual ball in different locations. Their first anniversary ball was in November 2007 at the Embassy Suite in San Francisco, the second on October 2008 at the Marriott Hotel in Burbank and their third, the upcoming one, on September 26 at Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas. All Calapenos, wherever you are, are invited to join us this event. Let us support the association's projects. This occasion will not only reunite fellow Calapenos but also to meet new friends. It promises to be an exciting one for all of us. A special guest from the Philippines is scheduled to attend and guests from various states, as well. So book your flights now, reserve your room at the Orleans hotel and get ready for this much-awated grand ball. For more details, contact Jimmy at mangyan49er@yahoo.com and Paz at gusamina@yahoo.com, 650 200 5091. See you there ! |
|||
What a celebration in New York City ! A well-planned parade, food festival, cultural presentations and more, all done in one day on June 7, right on Madison Avenue from 40th Street down to 23rd Street. The event was the annual independence day celebration participated in by the states of New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New York and Canada. Now on its 111 th anniversary of Philippine Independence and 20th year of celebrating independence in the East Coast, thousands gathered as early as 11 AM to get a glimpse of VP Noli de Castro, Senator Manny Villar and wife, Congresswoman Cynthia Villar, Senator Allen Peter Cayetano and wife, Congresswoman Cayetano who all flew to NYC to join the grand parade. Other celebrities included GMA7 actors and actresses i.e. Dingdong Dantes, Aljur Abrenica, Mylene Dizon to name a few. Philippine government officials marched in the spearhead area of the parade headed by Consul General Cecile B. Rebong , Amb. Hilario Davide, Jr. and wife, Gigi followed by the parade chairman, Juliet Payabyab of Calapan City. Some Mindorenos lent a helping hand in the preparations like Ric Agay, Rose Javier, Rea Pascua, Cecille Pilien Infantino, Feliz Dakis Drefus, Mercy Pastrana Mosley, Mel Panaligan, Willie Adeva, Imelda and husband, Sylwin Lazaro in addition to 100 Fil-am volunteers who tirelessly worked for the last three months to ensure a successful and memorable independence day celebration. A large number of Mindorenos also participated by marching under the banner of "VISIT MINDORO" to promote Mindoro tourism with Aster Tecson as the photographer at-large. A sea of yellow tshirts once again was displayed duplicating the most recently held Balik-Mindoro in Mindoro on February 09. VP Noli spent sometime talking to the Mindoro group during the assembly time on Madison Ave and was excited to see them as they passed the grandstand. Lumen Panahon of California came, too, to celebrate and march with her fellow Mindorenos. A cultural presentation followed after the 2-hour parade which included 14 floats, 10 marching bands, stiltwalker, stiltband, open cars and 100 Fil-am civic organizations as parade marchers. Blessed with a good and crispy weather and a $ 200,000 fundraising effort by the organizers, the event ended at 6 pm. Before the grand parade, a Miss Independence (Miss Diwa locally) was chosen to become as Ambassadress of Goodwill to the Philippines during her one year reign. And, once again, we are proud to announce that the newly-crowned Miss Diwa was Monica Leynes Castillo Meares whose mother, Faith Leynes Castillo-Meares, was from Calapan City. She won the title during the pageant of 8 beauties with her winning answer about being a Fil-am kid keeping the Filipino traditions, values and respect for elders. To capture more details, please go to Photo Album for lots of pictures. Enjoy ! On another note, it's picnictime for Mindorenos in the tri-state area of New York, NJ and Connecticut on July 25, Saturday. Fellow Mindorenos, wherever you are , please come and join this annual family picnic in Astoria Park, Astoria, Queens, New York from noon to evening. Bring your favorite dish, folding chairs, swimsuit, rollerblade, skateboard, bikes and favorite games. It will be another fun day. Enjoy the breeze from the river and olympic-size pool in the area. For details, please email mindorousa@yahoo.com or call Juliet 718 267 0221 and Ric 718 805 0175. Invite your friends, relatives, neighbors and co-workers. Special guests are Luz Acosta and husband, Jun Pait, of Las Vegas who will arrive in NYC two days before the picnic. Come one, come all to the upcoming Calapenos dinner and dance in Las Vegas on September 25. It will be held at the Orleans Hotel. Reservations are now being accepted both at the hotel and for the event. Email gusamina@yahoo.com for more information. Calling all Mindorenos especially Calapenos to attend this 3rd anniversary year sponsored by Calapenos USA International, Inc. with Jimmy Chua as the current president. This is your chance to meet Charo Santos in person at pati na yoong mga kapitbahay natin sa Calapan (now called Neo (new) Calapan City ! |
|||
Posted 6/15/09 http://www.modernhealthcare.com/section/100mp I am asking for your generous support to reach out to our fellow kababayans to pass along this email so that Dr. Saunders will be able to reach the top ten. |
|||
Calapan City gets LIGHTS ON , a traffic light, that is ! Traffic lights will be installed next month on JP Rizal Street as announced by Mayor Doy C. Leachon on May 18 at the City Hall Executive Conference Room. This project is consistent of his goal to make Calapan City a disciplined city. This traffic light installation is just an addition to projects that are already in place in Calapan City such as No Jaywalking, 10-minute Parking, Motorcycle Parking Bay and Wearing of helmets for motorcylists. On another note, the town of Socorro is getting a new Socorro Health Unit. A check for P2.5 million was given by the provincial government to the town of Socorro in support of this project and a total of 532 Philhealth ID cards for free health insurance will also be processed and will be given to qualified families. |
|||
In New York City, 100 Filipino-American organizations, with 50 members or more per association, are now officially registered to join and march in this annual grand parade on Madison Avenue, between 40th Street and 26th Street on June 7. Madison Avenue will be closed from 12 pm to 6 pm accommodating the parade from 12 PM to 2 pm followed by Street Festival and Cultural Presentation until 6 pm. Vice President Noli de Castro and Senator Manny Villar will be joining this event, too, and actors and actresses from the Philippines, as well. There will be 15 decorated floats, 10 marching bands and a display of our history and culture during the parade. Come one, come all if you are in the East Coast, as a resident or as a visitor. Juliet Payabyab, parade chairperson of this event, invites you on behalf of the PIDCI organizing committee to be part of this much-anticipated event in the East Coast. See you on Madison Ave on June 7 !!! |
|||
PROUD TO BE A MINDORENO !!! Calapan City - Stefanio Andrenicus Abaca Robin is No. 9 in 303 graduating class in Philippine National Police Academy (PNP). Congratulations to you "Nicus", from Mindorenos worldwide ! Calapan City - Rogelio "Joey" Antonio, Grand Master, led a group of Filipino Chess Masters in the 18th Annual North American Open Chess Championship on December 27 at the Bally's Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV. He scored seven straight victories in the US circuit this year including the recent 10th annual Joseph Ileto Memoria Open Chess Championship. Calapan City -------- Dr. Anthony Leachon - one of the Top Ten Filipino Physicians awarded last Sept. 29, 2008 at Manila Hotel. Bongabong --------- Mario Macalindong - comic illustrator working for Director Carlo Caparas. He will soon release a caricature for all three winners of Balik Mindoro 09 reunion themes won by Julie Lao, Ester Paras Jose and Josephine Padilla. Naujan/Calapan --- Louie Dalisay - songwriter and music arranger with clients outside the Philippines, too. He will compose a song for our upcoming Balik Mindoro 09. Bongabong --------- Lito Camu, composer and star celebrity at Wowowee program. Known for his composition of Ocho-ocho and Spageti. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Calapan City - Ernie Cleofe, President, OMASC (Southern California) Calapan City - Jimmy Chua, President, Calapenos International (Northern California) Mamburao ---- Feddy Catama, President, Midwest Asso. of Mindoro (Chicago) Pinamalayan - Rolly Mangante, President, United Mindoro Asso. of Toronto Pola - Noli de Castro, Vice President of the Philippines Bongabong - Nestor M. Mantaring, NBI Director Pinamalayan - Thaddeus E. Venturanza, SEC Commissioner Bongabong - Reynaldo V. Umali, Deputy Commissioner Bureau of Customs Occidental Mindoro - Amelita Villarosa, Congresswoman & Deputy Speaker of the House Calapan City - Engr. Florante Soriquez, Undersecretary Dept. of PW & Highways Calapan City - Patricia Aragon Sto. Thomas, DBP Chairman Bongabong - Dr. Rosalinda Bondal, former Makati Councilor Calapan City - Charo Santos, President ABS CBN Bongabong - Lito Camo, Composer of Wowowee ....more to come (please contribute more names on national level only worldwide - current positions or previous) ! |
|||
Vice President Noli de Castro has accepted an invitation to be one of the VIP guests in the upcoming 111th Philippine Independence Anniversary Commemoration in New York City. The Philippine Independence Day Committee, Inc. (PIDCI), the organizing committee for this event, in cooperation with the Consulate General of the Philippines and Honorary Adviser, Cecille B. Rebong, together with parade chairpersons, Juliet Payabyab and Gani Puertollano, an invitation was sent last month for the June 7 grand parade on Madison Avenue, New York City. PIDCI president, Gerry Austria has officially informed the Fil-am community of Vice Pres. Noli's arrival for this event. Fellow Mindorenos and non-Mindorenos in the area of New Jersey, New York, Delaware, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Maryland are welcome to watch or join this parade. Mindorenos will be marching as a group with a "VISIT MINDORO" banner in support of Mindoro tourism. If you are interested to join the parade or simply want to watch, please email mindorousa@yahoo.com. Yellow gold Mindoro tshirts will be provided. Wear khaki color pants and comfy shoes for the parade. Madison Avenue will be closed from 40th street down to 21 st street from noon to 7 pm for this much-anticipated celebration. Those participating in the parade can be part of the private audience that the group will be arranging (again) with VP Noli. Come one , come all ! Meet the delegations from Canada , California and Kansas (Mindorenos and non-Mindorenos) and a dance troupe direct from Iloilo. It will be an exciting parade, now on its 17th year, with 20 floats, 10 marching bands, and 100 Fil-am organizations and businesses joining. More VIPs and actors and actresses from the Philippines were also sent invitations to grace the affair. Fil-am mainstream newscasters i.e. Nina Pineda, Hazel Sanchez and Kristine Johnson will serve as masters of ceremonies at the grandstand. For more developments, keep visiting our website so you can adjust your visit to the Big Apple to see this parade. On another note, we were pleased to welcome Mayor Doy, his wife, Rona, son, Red, daughter, Beige and his Dad, Judge Emilio Leachon to New York City. The family had a two-day sightseeing tour in Manhattan and New Jersey and will continue to visit more places in the US before they head back to Manila. Wish you all a happy and safe trip, Mayor Doy ! |
|||
Yes, I am Joe Mari Chan and I was in Calapan City on February 27, 2009. Thanks to the organizers of the "Bahay ng Pari" fundraising event for inviting me, says Joe Mari ! This project, a retirement home for catholic priests of Mindoro, is intended to take care of the aging priests now and in the future. The event was a success and it generated generous donations to this good cause. Let us continue supporting this project ! And, of course, we have some pictures of the event for you. Go ahead and click the photo album now ! |
|||
|
|||
Proud to be a Mindoreno ! Meet Diane Arevalo of Calapan City and a student of Divine Word College located in Calapan City. She was Miss Oriental Mindoro 2007. She also joined the recently concluded Bb. Pilipinas pageant on March 7 at the Araneta Coliseum. Indeed, we are proud to announce that Diane made it to the top 10 finalists that night. Congratulations, Diane, from all of us, the Mindorenos worldwide. |
|||
Balik Mindoro 09 pictures are now in photo album (partial) ! More to come...Keep visiting the website and see what pictures have been added, so far. Review them, over and over again. Meron nadadagdag na bago at saka sa luma (me pahabol). |
|||
All 350 pictures of Balik Mindoro 09 are now posted, in four different albums. Go ahead and click them now. View them in sequence to enjoy the event. Feel like you were with us in Mindoro..........Enjoy ! Posted 3/16/09 Here is a tula dedicated to you and to all the Balik-Mindoro 2009 group. From Ante Villarica: Balik Mindoro 2009 Mga karanasan, kay sarap i-k’wento Mga kababayang mga Mindoreno, Buhat California, New York at Chicago, At sa ibang dako’t bahagi ng mundo, Nag excursion kayo pabalik Mindoro. Nahihili kaming mga naiwanan, Di namin nalasap, inyong naranasan, Nguni’t sa balitang mga kasayahan, Para na ring kami’y nar’yan sa pistahan. Juliet, bilib kami sa iyong pakana, Dapat na bigyan ka ng “Gawad Paghanga”, At lahat ng taong katulong gumawa, Mabuhay po kayo, sana’y huwag magsawa. Mga opisyales at ang kawanihan, Ng Silangang Mindoro, ng Lungsod Calapan, At ang nagsidalo sa “Grand Salubungan”, Dapat din purihin at pasalamatan, Sa palatuntunan nilang ginampanan Congresswoman Amy, buhat sa kanluran, Si Representante Boy, isang kaibigan, Puno ng probinsyang si Gobernador Arnan, Vice Governor Estee, champion sa kantahan, Alkaldeng makisig, Doy ng Calapan, Utang sa kanila, tagumpay ng bayan, Sa pagbigay-pugay sa mga kabayang Bihirang umuwi sa sariling bayan. Mabuhay! Mabuhay! Magbunyi ang lahat, Pati na rin kaming hindi napatapat, (ang pag-uwi) Baka sa susunod ay maging mapalad, Mapasama na rin sa pagbabalik-lakad. (Kung ‘yan ay sakaling may muli pang balak, Na ipagpatuloy sa taong tutulak.) -ni Gat Sandugoo (FDV) |
|||
BREAKING NEWS !!! (scroll down for Part I, II, III and IV the end na)
palaging me kasunod ito, basahin pababa ! The Balik-Mindoro 2009 (reunion of all Mindorenos regardless of which town and school they were from) event is over but the memories continue. All of us are still dreaming and just can't wake up to the fact that the activities, the very warm receptions from Congressman Boy Umali, Governor Arnan Panaligan, Mayor Doy Leachon, former Assemblyman Bong Ignacio and several mayors plus the attention that we all got from the townspeople were all remarkable, unbelievable and exceptional. It was the first time in Mindoro's history that they held such event and entertained to the fullest their Balik-Mindoro kababayans To start with, we would like to share with you the actvities that took place on: PART I (posted 2/25/09) Feb. 18 Wed. HE President Arroyo hosted lunch for all of us at Malacanang, complete with 15 press people from the media. She graciously mingled with us, talked to us, and was patient in group and individual picture-taking sessions. Congressman Girlie Villarosa of Occidental Mindoro and Undersecretary of Tourism, Mr. Oscar Palabyab were there, too, to welcome us. But before we left for Malacanang, we had to assemble at the condotel location at 8:30 am. All of us were there on time for departure except for one so we had to leave her behind. Pero naka-habol naman before Pres. Arroyo arrived for the lunch. So nahuli man daw at magaling , eh naka-habol din !!! Later in the afternoon, we all checked in at condotel in Makati. Balance of the day was spent in exploring Glorietta 1 thru 5 which was just a stone- throw away from the condotel. Feb. 19 Thurs. As scheduled, the tour bus picked us up at the condotel. Just as we were about to leave, we realized that we left one person behind (again). But someone saw him running after our bus so we had to stop and get him ! First itinerary was a rolling tour in the Makati financial district and the new condos already occupied. A very modern city "ala eh style manhattan" mandin. Then to global city, and to the biggest American cemetery outside the United States. We never knew that there is a such a huge and well-maintained place like that in Makati. Then while on the bus, we saw this "nilagang saging" so pinakyaw namin ang tinda noong bata. In few more minutes, we saw lanzones naman at ganoon din ang ginawa namin. All of us were craving for those since we landed in Manila. And not to be missed, the next stop was the Coconut Palace where we heard a detailed history of who stayed there and how it is being used these days. Then back to the Palace Museum in Malacanang for a grand tour of that place. These places were very familiar to all of us but just didn't bother seeing them while growing up. But now we did and no regrets. Dinner was at Cabalen for all of us. PART II (posted 3/1/09) Feb.20 Fri. We left Makati at 5:00 am and arrived at Batangas pier at 7:30 am. The Tourism staff were already waiting at the entrance gate. They escorted us to the Mabuhay Lounge where we were all treated to a buffet breakfast and musical entertainment. Congressman Boy Umali and former Assemblyman Bong Ignacio were there to welcome us and as participants started arriving, TV Net started rolling their cameras to capture the momentum, long-lost classmates, neighbors and friends screaming with joy when they saw each other at the pier. Half of the area inside the pier was blocked for us causing passengers to gather around and see what was going on ! Then it was time to board the new RS superferry. We occupied the whole first level of the boat with the TV Net still rolling their cameras to capture the smiling faces of the almost 100 (combined) Balik Mindoro on board. Arriving in Calapan pier at 11:30 am after just an hour ride, a welcome lei was given to each participant as they get off the boat, then passed the marching band and on to the buses, vans and cars waiting to take us all to El Pueblo resort to checkin. Thirty minutes later , we all went to Capitol where we were met by Gov. Arnan, Vice Gov. Estee, members of Sangguniang Bayan and department heads. It was their welcome lunch reception for us complete with performances by the Calapan Vendors asso. and the local singing idols. Francis Pangilinan of Canada ( a Balik Mindoro delegate) was declared to be the "Governor of the Day" by Governor Arnan. Francis was given the sash and standing ovation from the crowd. He was so thrilled to accept the title and truly enjoyed being the Governor for the day. He was joined by long time friend, former Assemblyman Bong Ignacio and high school classmates led by Resty Fernandez Asi. Part III (posted 3/3/09) After the turnover ceremony, the Calapan Vendors Asso. did a musical dance number followed by local singing idols. The buffet lunch was so delicious and was perfect for the hungry group from abroad. Ang sarap ng luto talaga !!! Then we moved on to City Hall where Mayor Doy Leachon of Calapan City and party were waiting. Again, welcome leis made of sea shells and flowers were given to each one of us as we entered, complete with banda ulit. This time, the atmosphere was different. It was in an open air/atrium setting. Tables were set up outdoor and buffet dinner was already ready when we arrived, complete with inihaw na tanige, barbeque, lots of Pinoy authentic foods and desserts. Jonathan Cueto Magpantay was given the sash as Mayor of the Day in a simple ceremony. He also received the symbolic key to the City from Mayor Doy. Juliet Payabyab, the organizer of the Balik Mindoro event, was asked to introduce the 70-people delegation from abroad. For entertainment, young performers did some numbers "ala Broadway style" showing the history of Mindoro. The show was so touching as it displayed the ups and downs of our province. Nakakaiyak ang play nila and it was brilliantly done by the youth group. Ang gagaling ! (So now we know what happened back then as portrayed in the play.) After the dinner and entertainment, we were all transported to San Vicente, JP Rizal St. which was closed for the much-awaited Mardi Gras/Street Dancing. It was like a fiesta ! People lined up on the streets (10 blocks) to see various dance troupes performed live on the streets. There were tinikling, binasuan, pandanggo sa ilaw and many more simultaneously performing to the delight of all. Balik Mindoro group was asked to dance pandanggo sa ilaw with the performers at siempre, nagpakitang gilas lahat. Sumayaw din ang Balik Mindoro Then we were escorted to the stage. At habang naglalakad kami, bumibili kami ng mga tinda, bawang na mani, palamig, suman, siopao, souvenirs, chicharon, at marami pang iba, talagang fiesta sa San Vicente. Me banda ulit sa stage , courtesy of San Miguel Corp., VG Estee was asked to sing while Balik Mindoro did a line dancing. Gov. Arnan and VG Estee were with us again at nakihalo sa saya namin. It was a special night as we were given super attention during the Mardi Gras. We were all wearing our yellow Balik Mindoro tshirts that night. So medyo pagod na kami around 11 PM that night kaya off we went to our sleeping quarters ! Part IV (posted 3/6/09) Feb. 21 Sat. Eto na ang motorcade....Assembly time and place, 830 AM at Calapan City Plaza. We took time in taking pictures infront of our landmark, the "Mangyan" and around the newly- renovated Plaza complete with Abacus lights, trees at mga upuan. As more cars and vans kept coming in to join the motorcade, the BM 09 group just couldn't stop posing for more pictures, parang mga bata talaga, just like the old days ! And soon it was time to start the motorcade ! Jimmy Chua was designated to be the escort of our Mrs. Balik Mindoro in the person of our very own, Rose Javier of NJ while Miss Oriental Mindoro gladly joined as additional beauty during the motorcade. It was a mile- long line up of cars, vans, motorcyles and bus all decorated with white balloons. After an hour of parade around the town, we all proceeded to El Pueblo resort for the barrio fiesta celebration. No transportation was allowed to enter, everyone had to walk from the entrance, para talagan fiesta sa baryo ! And as they approached the well-decorated place, the marching band started playing to welcome each one (again). Then on to the tables to relax a bit. Buffet lunch was served later then series of Filipiniana dances and a demo kung papaano ginagawa ang nilupak. A short time was also saved to show- case local talents (mga Balik Mindoro yon) dance tinikling. Merong marunong at meron talagang di marunong pero sport naman, sumayaw din ! VG Estee, Mayor Doy, Board Member Boy Infantado, Assemblyman Bong Ignacio, Francis Pangilinan (ex governor of the day) and Linda Macalintal, Jonathan Magpantay, to name a few tried a few steps of the tinikling.It was hilarious to watch their foot or both feet caught in between the bamboo. Towards the end of the celebration, BM 09 group participated in the Palarong Pilipino (for the young o.n.c.e.). Talagang game lahat, me nanalo, me nadapa at me tuwang-tuwa ! Then breaktime came to relax, time for hairdo, makeup, etc. for the grand ball. The four hairstylists came into action, pinaganda ang mga "girls" while the boys naman, got ready with their barong ! The Grand Ball/Gala Night 7pm guests started arriving, almost all in gowns and cocktail dresses while men came in barong as required. The band started playing in the front of the hall while a young violinist entertain the guests as they check their seat assignments. Fresh roses and votive candles decorated the tables. Spot- lights were properly positioned to highlight the event. Wines and food were ready to be served. Lola Toyang and family was first to arrive, even ahead of the BM 09 group. Guests started dancing while the rests couldn't stop saying "hi" and "hello" to familiar faces. Then came the grand entrance of all BM 09 participants. From the back, they were elegantly presented in single or in two's. Then appreciation awards soon followed. Lourdes Agay Dabandan got the Mindoreno Retiree of the Year while Dr. Ninfa Medina Saunders received the Outstanding Mindoreno award for her accomplishments in the national level in the United States. Gov. Arnan and VG Estee presented the awards to both of them. Juliet Payabyab was also presented with a bouquet from the BM 09 group as their appreciation for handling the BM 09 event. Congressman Rod Valencia came, too, with his lovely daughter, Jojo. They had a good time dancing and meeting our guests. Emcees were Paz Castillo Iturralde of California and Max of Calapan City. Three beauties were crowned, presented with bouquets and sashes. Miss Oriental Mindoro and her runner up joined Rose Javier,our Mrs. Balik Mindoro 09, during the pageant. The corporate and individual sponsors, the government officials, guests, BM 09 delegates and everyone who supported the event , especially Orlando Tizon of the Department of Tourism and his staff, VG Estee, Juliet's family, El Pueblo were all acknowledged and given recognition for their unconditional love and support to this project. Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat ! Feb. 22 Sun. concelebrated Mass na ito, last day of activities. Apat na pari ang nag-celebrate ng Mass at siempre nandoon lahat kami. Then we said goodbye to those who were rushing to catch the superferry ! Salamat ulit sa lahat. T h e E n d |
|||
|
|||
There are streamers all over Calapan City by now inviting everyone there to see the fireworks display during the Mardi Gras night on February 20 at JP Rizal St., in San Vicente. Start calling your friends and relatives in Mindoro and share this news. It's for all and it is open to the public to see and enjoy....at 7 PM !!! |
|||
Governor Arnan Panaligan welcomes Balik - Mindoro 09 !!! On arrival day, a welcome reception is scheduled at the Capitol for all Balik Mindoro participants. Welcoming party includes Governor Arnan, Vice Governor Estee, Sangguniang Panlalawigan board members, Provincial Tourism Office and heads of various government agencies of Region IV. There will be an entertainment and lunch at Capitol Square. Later in the afternoon of the same day, the group will move to City Hall to meet with Mayor Doy Leachon of Calapan City for another round of welcome party to be hosted by the muncipal government. There will be an entertainment, too, and this time, a dinner reception will follow. Thank you all for your warm reception ! |
|||
Posted 2/6/09 Philippines, here we come ! The Mindoro Group is set to meet with President Arroyo at Malacanang Palace. For those included in this appointment with Pres. Arroyo, please get in touch with us as soon as you can to give you specific time, exact date to meet her (as approved by the president herself) , and place of assembly. |
|||
Well, we are now approaching Manila ! some have already landed and already enjoying the company of their friends and relatives while others are about to follow in the friendly skies...in a few days. Will keep you posted for every exciting move/action that will take place before, during and after the much-anticipated Balik Mindoro event on Feb. 20 -22. Para na din kayong kasama .Travel with us, enjoy the events in spirit and together let's wish for a happy and successful reunion. Keep visiting our website for pictures of the event. |
|||
And later on, find out who will be our Miss Balik Mindoro, Mrs. Balik Mindoro and Mr. Mindoro.... |
|||
Welcome "leis" are now ready and will be given to each Balik Mindoro participant as they get off the supercat ferry on February 20. Complete with marching band, full coverage of media, welcome leis, welcome committees, and more, how exciting would that be so keep traveling with us...in spirits and feel the excitement, too ! |
|||
|
|||
|
|||
Happy Birthday to Lola Toyang (again) ! Mrs. Dorotea Oliva vda de Aguilar will celebrate her 103rd birthday next month. What a cool Lola we have ! She was born in Vigo, Lubang, Occidental Mindoro on February 6, 1906 to Bernabe and Maria Oliva. She and Lolo Tomong (her late husband) settled in Baco in the 1950s . Later on, Lolo Tomong became the town's Vice Mayor. Lola Toyang is a rock, and by all accounts, a woman of great ability and force of character. She will join us on February 21 at the formal ball of our Balik Mindoro, health permitting. For a detailed bio and more pictures of her, go to Special People column. |
|||
Here you go, folks ! Presenting to you cartoon artwork by Mario Macalindong of Bongabong as symbolic drawing of our upcoming event next month aka Balik Mindoro 09 ! Each registered participant is now ready and will be in Manila on or before February 18 for a get-together dinner first. The group will meet at specific meeting place equipped with contact numbers and complete itinerary ! And for those who didn't make it to the list, there will always be a second time, next time,and good time ! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- And here is another accomplished artist from Barcenaga, Naujan, with his music and lyrics dedicated to Balik Mindoro ! Louie M. Dalisay, Wednesday, January 28, 2009 inspired by the theme: Saan ka man sa mundo, balik mindoro. SAAN KA MAN SA MUNDO… BALIK MINDORO KUMUSTA NA MGA KAIBIGAN? KAY TAGAL NA RIN NATIN DI NAGKITA NAKAKAMISS ANG PANAHONG LUMIPAS MARAMING KWENTOHAN DIN ANG ATING PINALAMPAS KAYA NGAYON, BALIKAN NATIN, SARIWAIN ANG KAHAPON SAAN KA MAN SA MUNDO MAGKIKITA MULI TAYO… SAAN KA MAN SA MUNDO, MANANATILI KA SA PUSO DAHIL ANG NGITI NG TUNAY NA KAIBIGAN AT KALINGA NG TUNAY MONG KABABAYAN SADYA NAMANG NAIIBA ITO’Y ISANG PAANYAYA SA MASAYANG PAGKIKITA IPAGPAPALIT PA BA ANG LUNTIANG PALAYAN ANG MAYAMANG KARAGATAN, NA AKING KINALAKHAN MALILIMUTAN BA NAMAN ANG HIMIG NG KALIKASAN SA BUNDOK AT KAPATAGAN NA ATING KINAGISNAN ANG PAYAPANG DAIGDIG SA PUSO NG KABUKIRAN ANO PA ANG HINIHINTAY MAGKAPIT KAPIT NA NG KAMAY TAYO AY MAGPIPYESTA DAHIL MULI NAGSAMA SAMA BAWAT ISA’Y MAY PASALUBONG MAKULAY NA KARANASAN HWAG KA LANG MAHIHIYA, SIMULAN NA ANG KWENTUHAN! |
|||
President Barack Obama with First Lady Michelle during the inauguration yesterday, 1/20. At night, they began their first dance together as the 44th president of the United States and first lady at the Neighborhood Inaugural Ball in Washington. Barack Obama took power as the first black U.S. president on 1/20. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PNP Regional headquarters now in Calapan City - The regional headquarters of Mimarops PNP moved from the old location in Canlubang, Laguna to Calapan City. It is now easier to connect with them for PNB Region 4B's peace and order. The new headquarters is located at Camp Navarro, next to Calapan airport. |
|||
Yes, fellow Mindorenos, we are almost there. Preparations for our upcoming Balik Mindoro 09 on Feb. 20 - 22 in Calapan City are almost complete. Specific details, meeting place, time and contact persons. phone numbers in Manila and Calapan City will be given directly to participants only before they leave for Manila. These specific details will not be posted in our website for confidentiality purposes. If you are a registered participant, take time to email Mindorousa@yahoo.com to make sure that you have these exact details. They are "for your eyes only" ! See you in Manila on Feb. 18 and/or at pick up location on Feb. 19. It's sightseeing tour in Manila with a tour guide. Learn our history, one more time and more. |
|||
Mang Mindo , our mascot cartoon for our website, has something to share with you...here it is !Another year has passed and we're all a little older. Last Summer felt hotter and Winter seems much colder. I wrack my brain for happy thoughts, to put down on my pad, but lots of things that come to mind, just make me kind of sad. There was a time not long ago, when life was quite a blast. Now I fully understand, about "Living in the past". We used to go to friends homes, baseball games and lunches. Now we go to therapy, to hospitals, and after-funeral brunches. We used to have hangovers, from parties that were gay (happy, we mean). Now we suffer bodyaches, and sleep the night away. We used to go out dining and couldn't get our fill. Now we ask for doggie bags, come home and take a pill. We used to travel often, to places near and far. Now we get backaches from riding in the car. We used to go out shopping, for new clothing at the Mall, but, now we never bother...all the sizes are too small......That, my friend is how life is, and now my tale is told. So, enjoy each day and live it up...before you're too damn old !!!.....So let's join the Balik Mindoro 09 and see for yourself the progress and feel the joy of being a Mindoreno, one more time ! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Oriental Mindoro Electric Cooperative Inc. (Ormeco) received P167.32 million loan from the National Electrification Commission (NEA) as financial assistance to make the power corp more viable and competitive in the energy industry. The projects to be implemented include the energizing of sitios/puroks, the connection of new consumers rehabilitation/revamp and upgrading of distributing energy electric system, acquisition, upgrading and rehabilitation of power transfusion. Interest rate is 9 1/2 %, payable in 15 years with 6 months grace period.
|
|||
Preparations for the Balik Mindoro is almost complete !!! Everyone, here is the Mindoro team, counterpart of US team preparing for the Balik-Mindoro event ! Headed by Orlando Tizon of Calapan City, (3rd seated from left in picture),and Senior Tourism Operations Officer, the Mindoro team committee is ready to implement the plans and activities as scheduled. Dubbed as the pro in Mindoro in handling such kind of events, the Balik Mindoro participants are assured of quality entertainment, organized itinerary and warm welcome from Mindoro. The team met with Juliet Payabyab on December 5 at Anahaw Resort in Balite, Calapan City to finalize the details. The US team, headed by Juliet , includes Wilfredo Saulong, Rick Agay, Rose Javier, Tawel Abeleda, Rick Agay, Mercy Pastrana Mosley, Aida Mercado Abas, Andrea Amparo Mahiya, Nora de Chavez Benitez, Rea Wagan Pascua, Alvin Saulong, Cecille Pilien Infantino, Rory Adeva Angara, Atty. Bobby Hernandez and Willie Adeva. Thank you all for helping out ! Keep checking the Balik Mindoro 09 page for updates of our itinerary ! |
|||
|
|||
|
|||
Posted 12/16/08 Meet the candidates for Miss Oriental Mindoro 2009pageant during the courtesy call on Governor Arnan Panaligan in November. All towns were represented. We shall announce soon who won in this contest. She will be gracing the Balik Mindoro 09 grand ball and will be one of the three beauties to be crowned during the much-awaited formal ball honoring Balikbayan participants. Here are the candidates: Ms. Baco - Marie April Jeannel Aboboto Ms. Bansud - Jessa Arren Orense Ms. Bongabong - Abby Gale Rey Ms. Bulalacao - Charity Valdez Ms. Calapan City - Sheila Rosales Ms. Gloria - Veronica Sunio Ms. Mansalay - Mary Jewel Orejuela Ms. Naujan - Donna rae de Castro Ms. Pinamalayan - Iowa Kim Flores Ms. Pola - Ruby Jean Gardoce Ms. Pto. Galera - Sophia Paquio Ms. Roxas - Bianca Festejo Ms. San Teodoro - Lineth Sales Ms. Socorro - Kristine Joy Fabunan Ms. Victoria - Rachel Ann Bustante Outgoing Ms. Oriental Mindoro - Diane Arevalo Who will it be ? Who will be the next Miss Oriental Mindoro 09 and the 1st Ms. Balik Mindoro - Philippines 09 ? --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Coming up next are the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Board Members...so keep visiting our website for more exciting news and events. |
|||
|
|||
Posted 11/30/08 |
|||
One more time, check the expiration dates of your passports para di kayo maiwanan ng byahe !!! See you in Manila and Mindoro soon ! |
|||
A big "HELLO" from Mang Mindo, our website's mascot, which was created by artist, Aster Tecson of Calapan City on October 2007. Mang Mindo would like to share the lyrics of our Mindoro song, courtesy of Percy Aranas, president, The Association of Mindorenos in Manila. Everyone, please cherish the lyrics, the song and the thought of being a Mindoreno !!! O MINDORO O Mindoro lalawigang pinagpala Ng kamay ng kalikasa't ni Bathala Sa buhay mo'y napisan ng lahat yata Ang ganda at katangiang pambihira. Sa puso mo'y may puri ka't karangalan Sa dibdib mo'y may giting ka't katapangan Sa ulo mo'y may talino't karunungan May wika ka, bisig, ganda't kayamanan. Kaya naman lalawigan sakdal ganda Ika'y aking hahangaan sa tuwina Tutulaan ng tula ko ng pagsamba Aawitan ng awit ko ng pagsinta. Kaya naman lalawigan sinisinta Ika'y aking mamahalin sa tuwina Sisikaping umunlad ka at lumigaya Habang ako'y may buhay pa at hininga. (Composed by the late Mrs. Guadalupe Sto. Domingo of Calapan City. ) |
|||
Posted 11/10/08 On Balik-Mindoro 09 reunion, Welcome Messages from Governor Arnan Panaligan, Vice Governor Estee Aceron and Mayor Doy Leachon are now posted in Balik Mindoro 09 page (see left side column). Everyone, please open Balik Mindoro 09 page and see the entirety of their welcome messages. As a preview, here are the excerpts : "This reunion, dubbed as Balik Mindorenos 2009", is a rare opportunity for the Mindorenos from various parts of the world to visit their home province and have a reunion with their relatives, friends and "kababayans" after several years living abroad"....signed Governor Arnan Panaligan. "I believe, as you revisit the province, it will not only serve as a great opportunity to exchange expert views on issues concerning the development of our province but will also help boost the tourism industry of the province for which the Provincial Government of Oriental Mindoro envisioned as the Philippines' emerging eco-tourism destination"...signed Maria Estela Felipa M. Aceron, Provincial Vice-Governor. "The City Government of Calapan and all the Calapenos would be very much willing to open their doors and accept their fellow Mindorenos who had been away from our island for a number of years now. Witness how economic development and progress has enveloped our city and our beloved island and more importantly, how we kept its hometown appeal in the midst of the march towards modernization"...signed Atty. Paulino Salvador C. Leachon, City Mayor. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Town of Bansud, Oriental Mindoro introduces "Burnham Park" version - Mayor Ronnie Morada is proud to welcome families and friends enjoying the facilities of the newly-opened Burnham Park Bansud-version in their town. Additional "bangkas" or flat small boats will soon be introduced to accommodate more visitors and local residents in Bansud. Congratulations to you, Mayor Morada and to the people in Bansud enjoying their park and now this 5,000 sq. meter lagoon. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pictures of Calapenos USA International dinner-dance on October 25 held at Marriott Hotel Burbank location is now in our photo album. Enjoy ! |
|||
Posted 10/31/08 We just can't stop adding more and more Mindorenos who deserve to be recognized ! This time, we have Commissioner Thaddeus Enriquez Venturanza of Pinamalayan. "Thad" ,as we all call him, is one of the five-member commission en banc of the Securities and Exchange Commission. He was an audit and law practitioner prior to his appointment to this prestigious position on September 11, 2006. He finished Accounting at San Sebastian College and became 15th placer in CPA Board Exam after graduation. He joined SGV as an auditor and then established his own private practice as an audit partner at Venturanza & Associations, CPAs. Later on, he continued studying Law at Ateneo de Manila University and topped the bar as 5th placer in September 1989. With a strong desire to serve fellow Mindorenos, he served as the Vice Governor from 2001-2004. Thad is married to Pilita Quizon, current Deputy Executive Secretary. She is the daughter of Judge and Zenaida Paras Quizon of Calapan City, They are blessed with four children, namely, Isay, Sinta, Sari and Gab. |
|||
Embracing this year's theme "Calapenos go to Hollywood", Calapan celebrities started arriving at 7 pm in their formal attire. They were treated to a grand entrance as they walk through the red carpet fully decorated with stars and names of celebrities on the side. The "paparazzi" surrounding the area just couldn't keep up catching all these stunning "stars" as they continue saying "hi and hello" to all. Truly, the event became another memorable night for all Calapenos and their guests with the help of the very capable emcees, Boyet Martinez and Paz Castillo Iturralde. Ting and Len Luna, MDs, Jimmy Chua, current president and all the hardworking committes are to be credited for this successful event. And thanks, too, to Boyet Martinez for that hilarious and excellent performance as "Willie Revillame"during the surprise dance number of Southern California Calapenos headed by Jimmy and Ting. And for next year, we shall see yet another year of celebration. This time, it will be in Las Vegas. So get ready and let's start inviting more Calapenos to join us next year ! Pictures of this event to follow. Abangan na lang po ninyo kung sino yong mga celebrities from Calapan na dumating sa dinner-dance !!! |
|||
Posted 10/21/08 It's another Mindoreno from Oriental Mindoro ! Allen Angelo Garcia is little dreamer third placer of Pinoy Dream Academy. He is 6 years old and he rocks. Pinoy Dreamer Academy features cute talented kids from 6 to 10 years old known as little dreamers. Click the link below and see how our very own cute little one won the hearts of so many while singing rock n roll selections with all of his good moves. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zc2mjI4_cb8&feature=related --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Anti-Mining rally pictures on October 16 are now posted in the Mining on Mindoro page (see left side column). Latest on anti-mining issue, as of October 20 : Representatives from the provincial government of Oriental Mindoro, on The said activity is a direct violation of the province’s 25-year mining moratorium ordinance as expressed in the letter issued by Governor Arnan C. Panaligan addressed to the mining companies. The said legislation passed in 2002 explicitly prohibits the entry of any large-scale mining and other activities leading to such for 25 years. |
|||
Calapan City - More than 4,500 anti-mining advocates formed a human chain along J.P. Rizal Street here on October 16 Thursday to urge President Macapagal-Arroyo, who arrived for a peace council meeting, to respect a mining moratorium. The human chain was timed by the multi-sectoral Alyansa Laban sa Mina (Alamin, Alliance Against Mining) for the arrival of Arroyo after lunch for the Local Peace and Security Assembly (LPSA) of the Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan) region at the Filipiniana Hotel here. Joining the protest were representatives from indigenous peoples' groups, the church, Rotary Club, cooperatives, barangay (villages), religious groups and academe. At the LPSA, a two-page position paper on ecology, food security and the threats posed by large-scale mining by the Intex Resources Corp./Aglubang Mining Corp. in Oriental Mindoro was presented to Arroyo by participants led by pastors of different parishes, leaders of people's organizations and civil society groups. Anti-mining activists say the concession threatens the towns of Naujan, Baco and Victoria, and Calapan City, which had a combined rice production of nearly 170,000 metric tons in 2006, or about 50 percent of total provincial production, enough to feed more than 783,000 people for a year. The 9,720-hectare mining site also covers the ancestral domain claim of the Alangan and Tadyawan Mangyan communities, who stand to be displaced. In July 2001, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, through then secretary Heherson Alvarez, revoked the mining concession, citing the environmental and social impacts of the project. But on March 10, 2004, the Office of the President revoked the notice of termination/cancellation earlier issued against the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement of Aglubang Mining Corp., despite a 25-year-mining moratorium declared by the provincial board on January 28, 2002. |
|||
He is both a scriptwriter and an illustrator in the local comics industry. As a scriptwriter, his entry in the Gantimpalang Carlo J. Caparas Comics Scriptwriting Contest in 2007 was chosen as one of the 30 finalists held at the Malacananang Press Office. Highly skilled and proficient in printed illustration, he is also into animation as layout artist, specifically as scene planner artist. Other known artists from Mindoro are Aster Tecson of New Jersey and Calapan City, Julie Lao, book author of Virginia Beach and Calapan City, Lito Camo, composer and part of Wowowee of Manila and Bongabong, and Mario Ilao Macalindong. If you know more Mindorenos making good in their chosen fields, feel free to submit it to our website. Email it to mindorousa@yahoo.com. Salamat ! Mario has also done illustrations for a number of DepEd textbooks published by Dane Publishing House (Manila). Watch for Mario's profile coming soon in our Special People column. |
|||
Posted 10/9/08 Just five more months and off we go to Mindoro for our 1st Balik Mindoro reunion on February 20 to 22. If you have not gotten any call so far, chances are your name/s is still not on the confirmed list. Please email mindorousa@yahoo.com ,as soon as you can, to simply say you are joining. Registration forms will be sent to you right after that. It is important that we get you listed as Malacanang audience is limited to 38 only (hopefully it can be increased later) but attendees for the Balik Mindoro in Calapan City is unlimited (you still need to register and be counted for badges distribution, headcount for lunches, dinners, grand ball and activities). Again, here is our itinerary if you are still thinking of joining: February 19 Thursday tentative courtesy call with President Arroyo (only if you want to be included here) confirmed FREE half-day sightseeing in Manila February 20 Friday leave Manila for Calapan City (or meet you in in Calapan if you are already there) Upon arrival in Calapan City, to be welcomed by a marching band, then fiesta celebration at night, cultural presentation and coronation of of muses, open to public but Balik Mindoro attendees will be in a preferred seating area (that's why you need to be registered and counted) February 21 Sat. daytime activities planned At night, GRAND BALL with live music band, formal February 22 Sun. concelebrated mass, breakfast follows Optional : overnight stay at Boracay See you in Mindoro and keep visiting the website for updates. Speech Lab for Oriental Mindoro - Specialized English Enhancement Course for high school and elementary public school teachers and other language users was recently launched in Calapan City. The course is designed to enhance the English proficiency of teachers, technical and vocational trainees and other language users in Oriental Mindoro. It will enable the trainees to acquire up-to-date knowledge in English. Governor Arnan C. Panaligan and Mayor Doy Leachon of Calapan City had the opportunity to test the courseware presented by Interactivie Language Solutions Inc. A speech lab with 20 functional computers and a conference room is located at the provincial capitol. Both the provincial government of Oriental Mindoro (PGOM) and city government purchaswed the courseware account. Malampaya Foundation will fund personnel services and workshop for the trainees. About 300 teachers and other beneficiaries will be trained at the Speech Lab. |
|||
Another Mindoreno to be proud of !This time, he is from Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro. Meet Atty. Romeo Buenaventura, Jr., a practicing lawyer and current Board Member, District II of the province of Oriental Mindoro. On his recent visit to New York, Jun, as we all call him, eagerly presented to Juliet Payabyab, president of Mindoro International, Mindoro's plan of welcoming the attendees to the three day event dubbed as "Balik Mindoro 2009" on February 20-22, 2009 in Calapan City. In his capacity as board member, he sponsored an Ordinance which was unanimously approved by the Sangguniang Bayan members declaring the month of February as Balik-Mindoro month. The Ordinance was approved to boost the eco-tourism industry of the province in line with the program of the national government. Migrant Mindorenos are encouraged to visit the province to boost not only tourism but the economy of Mindoro, as well. |
|||
Posted 10/2/08 And the winner is...."Buong Mundo, Balik Mindoro 2009" !!! Cheers to the winning entry in the recently launched Name Game contest for the best theme for the 1st Balik Mindoro 2009 next year. The winning theme was submitted by Julie Lao of Virginia. Julie will receive $ 50 for being the first prize winner. The second place or winner is Ester Paras Jose of Los Angeles, CA for her "Mindoro, my homeland forever" entry while the third prize or winner goes to Josephine Padilla of Calapan City for her "Bayan Mo Bayan Ko Mindoro" entry. Each will receive $25 for being the second and third winners, respectively. Congratulations to you all and see you in Calapan City next year. And mucho gracias to all who participated in the voting for the best themes. Salamat, ulit ! "Buong Mundo Balik Mindoro 2009" will be our official theme and will be used in our logo for banners, streamers and others while the second and third themes will be for souvenirs and other related stuff. |
|||
Lito was given a warm welcome by Juliet Payabyab, president of Mindoro International and Lito's kababayan na mga taga Bongabong, Jing Oliva and Arnold Tolentino of Los Angeles, Jun Manahan and Luis Masangkay of New Jersey during his brief visit in Manhattan yesterday. For those who regularly watch him at Wowowee and to Mindorenos worldwide, Lito is the famous songwrrter who composed the famous Ocho Ocho, Spageti, Chicharong Bulaklak and many more. He wrote, too, jingles for commercials and television shows. He had a breakthrough in 2001, with the song "Bakit Papa, tawag mo ako", followed by Ocho Ocho. He also wrote songs for Manny Pacquiao. His profile will be posted soon in our Special People. Keep visiting our website to check it out. |
|||
In any order, here are the winning TOP SIX themes : Balik-Mindoro Balik-Saya 2009 Buong Mundo Balik Mindoro 2009 Bayan Mo Bayan Ko Mindoro Mindoro My Homeland Forever Balik-Mindoro 2009 Isang Bayan I-Sandugo The winning theme will be picked from these top six and will be posted soon. Congratulations to all and thanks to all who participated in our Name Game contest. Watch for the winner ! Calapenos International, Inc. - Happy 2nd Year Anniversary to Calapenos International, a 501 C not-for-profit organization based in California. On October 25, an expected three hundred attendees, mostly from Calapan, will gather at the Marriott Hotel in Burbank, California (across the Burbank airport) to celebrate its second year of existence. Their first year anniversary last year was held at Burlingame, California. Jimmy Chua, current president, and officers and members, as well, would like to invite all Calapenos, wherever you are, to join this much-anticipated event on Oct. 25. Contact person is Paz Iturralde at gusamina@yahoo.com. Congressman Rodolfo Valencia has asked the Sandiganbayan for a review of his convictions for graft involving the P2.5 million calamity loan fund. Valencia delivered a speech at the plenary session of Congress and said utmost care must be exercised to spare the innnocent ones. Valencia exhibited to his colleagues Presidential Proclamation 306 issued by then President Fidel V. Ramos in 1993 declaring a state of calamity in Mindoro Oriental as a result of a series of typhoons that hit the province including documents and manifestoes serving as an evidence on the validity of his humanitarian and office initiatives, as governor then. First District Congressman Alfonso "PA" Umali, Jr. also delivered a privilege speech reiterating innocence because his participation in the case as then provincial administrator was merely ministerial. "Bayanijuan" goes to Calapan City to help fight malnutrition - A 120-day feeding program was organized by the ABS-CBS Foundation Inc. (AFI) for the "Bayanijuan" advocacy program of ABS-CBN as part of the company's 55th anniversary celebration. Calapan City is among the places that needs assistance because of the high incidence of poverty. ABS-CBN employees and talents led by its president, Charo Santos-Cancio shared quality time with the pupils of Adriatico Memorial School to help in the feeding program supported by Knorr. The ABS-CBN talents also played with the kids as they joined the games prepared by the "Bayanijuan" organizers. It will also distribute education TV packages in Calapan City that contains 29" TV set, a DVD player, and 400 lessons in Arithmetic, spelling and Philippine history. (article courtesy of Island Observer). |
|||
Posted 9/18/08 Would you help us select the best theme for our Balik-Mindoro ? As you know, we need the best theme/logo for next year. So go ahead and select one and email your choice to us at mindorousa@yahoo.com or post it in our Guest Book. We are currently at the height of selecting the TOP SIX themes for our Balik-Mindoro reunion next year. It is getting exciting as website visitors continue to pick their own choice from the lists of themes that we posted a week ago. The TOP SIX will be posted next week and from this top six, the winning entry will be selected. So abot pa kayong mamili. Scroll down for the lists of themes and pick your choice. Sige na, give us your chosen theme ! A film shot in Mindoro - a screening of the movie "BRUTUS" will take place in Chicago on October 24 and 26. The film which was shot in Mindoro is about two Mangyan children. The film already won four awards and is now joining the 44th Chicago International Film Festival. It would be nice if Mindorenos in the vicinity of Chicago or if you plan to be in Chicago to take time seeing this movie. It concerns Mindoro. Next screening will be in Hawaii also in October but no details are available as this writing. Should you be interested to get more information, please visit http://chiquibaylon.net/ |
|||
We are happy to report to all Mindorenos visiting our website that in one year's time, we found hundreds,and got them connected, long lost friends, classmates, relatives, neighbors, loved ones and acquaintances. Current news and events about Mindoro, the province and Mindoro associations worldwide plus special people from Mindoro were featured thanks to our contributors. Mindorenos were reached out to simply make them aware of our website, their classmates, and the progress happening in Mindoro. Likewise, Mindorenos from Canada, USA, Germany, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, South Korea, Hawaii, Qatar, and many more posted their greetings in our Guest Book. Readers responded to them that paved the way to constant communications . Others simply say it was good having such an informative website that enriches someone's life ! And the highlight of our efforts is to organize our 1st Balik-Mindoro event next year with the help of our municipal government and Provincial Tourism Office. The date is on February 20 to 22, 2009 !!! With it comes a "theme" which we will use for our banners, streamers, tshirts, key chains and other sourvenirs. But who would it be (winner) and what would it be (theme) ? Scroll down and choose which theme you prefer. These entries made to the finalists stage. And now we are about to pick and publish the top six soon and from there, we will choose the final winning entry. Keep visiting our site to see who would it be and what would it be ...pick your choice, too ! Email your pick to mindorousa@yahoo.com or post it in our guest book. |
|||
Posted 9/10/08 Name Game "search for a theme" which ended last Augut 30 now releases the finalists ! Following are the entries that made to the final selection stage (listed in any order) : Buong Mundo Balik Mindoro 2009 Mindoro, Malayo man, Malapit din, dapat bisitahin ! Balik Mindoro Balik Saya 2009 Reunion na Fiesta pa ! Isang Bayan, I-Sandugo Aming Mindoro Kahit Nasaan, Mangyan pa rin Mindoro Marangal, Mangyan Mindoro, My Homeland Forever Mindoro Di Kita Iiwan Bayan Mo Bayan Ko Mindoro Mindoro Visit '09 Para sa Lahat Nandito ako...taga Mindoro Uwian sa "2009" getz mo? Balik Mindoro 2009 The winning entry will be selected from the above and will be posted next week ! Advance congratulatios to the winner. Find out who would that be...keep visiting our website. Salamat po sa mga sumali ! Oriental Mindoro Congressmen sentenced - From: Manila Standard/Today-September 10, 2008 Graft court sentences 2 congressmen to 10 years. THE anti-graft court yesterday sentenced two congressmen and four other people to 10 years in jail for illegally disbursing P2.5 million in funds from the Mindoro provincial government in January 1994. The Sandiganbayan’s Fourth Division also perpetually disqualified from public office Oriental Mindoro Reps. Rodolfo Valencia (First District) and Alfonso Umali Jr. (Second District) and their co-accused Pedrito Reyes, Jose Enriquez, Jose Leynes and Alfredo Atienza. Valencia was Mindoro’s governor, and Umali his administrator, when the provincial government released the P2.5 million in the form of a loan to Atienza, a private citizen, to repair his vessel ferry.Atienza claimed he needed the money to repair his ferry, which the provincial government had been using to help in recovery efforts following the onslaught of four typhoons that hit the province in December 1993.Valencia admitted providing him with the loan.But the Sandiganbayan ruled that the loan was illegal, saying it served no public purpose and was grossly disadvantageous to the government. “In fact, under the credit agreement, accused Atienza had no obligation whatsoever to deliver upon a public purpose,” said the decision written by Associate Justice Jose Hernandez.The case against Valencia and Umali had reportedly caused a rift between the Sandiganbayan and the House of Representatives, and apparently due to the House’s repeated refusal to enforce the anti-graft court’s 90-day preventive suspension against the lawmakers.At one point, the Fourth Division was said to have threatened to cite then Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. for contempt for refusing to comply with its order. In the House, Speaker Prospero Nograles Jr. said they were saddened by the Sandiganbayan’s decision.“But since this is a judicial proceeding, we await the finality of the decision as the accused still have the right to appeal the decision,” he said in a text message to reporters.Valencia and Umali said they would appeal.They were expected to post another P30,000 bail for their provisional liberty. (article provided by Romy Sager). |
|||
|
|||
Posted 8/27/08 |
|||
Posted 8/20/08 |
|||
Maghanda na po tayo para sa 1st Balik-Mindoro next year !!! In the spirit of togetherness and in support of Mindoro tourism, let us join the Mindoro Reunion in February, 2009. This is for all Mindorenos living abroad and in the Philippines regardless of which town you're from. Sama-sama tayong mag-celebrate, parang fiestahan ulit sa Calapan City. Here is our tentative itinerary : Feb. 19 Thursday for those who could come on the 19th... possible courtesy call in Malacanang then followed by a FREE half-day sightseeing tour in Manila (airconditioned bus). Feb. 20 Friday leave for Calapan City from Batangas City Pier (we will post departure times later) arrive in Calapan City early a.m. to be welcomed by a marching band (only for two big arrivals) lunch to be served At night, fiesta na ! Cultural presentation, and coronation of muses. Open to public with food vendors, palamig, sinulbot, barbeque, etc. Feb. 21 Sat. daytime activities/llunch included Grand Ball - formal, at night with live music band Feb. 22 Sun concelebrated Mass at the Cathedral after Mass, leave for Boracay (optional tour) for overnight stay. then another overnight in Puerto Galera the following day. The following week, a ballroom night at Funn Side in QC is planned. Will post more details later. So, eto na po ang itinerary natin. Kaya mag save na tayo at bumili na ng Summer clothes for next year if you are in Winter zones next month. Salamat po ! |
|||
|
|||
Posted 8/6/08 We are happy to announce that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Oriental Mindoro has passed a Provincial Ordinance appropriately called "Balik-Mindoro Ordinance" declaring the month of Febuary (2009) as Balik-Mindoro month. As confirmed, this Ordinance was unanimously approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan members from the 1st District and 2nd District including the ex-officio members. The said Ordinance was also approved and signed by Diwata H. Fetizanan, Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Hon. Maria Estela felipa M. Aceron, Vice Governor and Presiding Officer and Hon. Arnan C. Panaligan, Provincial Governor. It was approved in line with the economic agenda of the Provincial Government of Oriental Mindoro to boost the eco-tourism industry of the province and as one of the programs of the national government. It also serves as an encouragement to all Mindorenos to visit the province. The event will also serve as an avenue to effect collaborative developmental underakings/projects between the provincial government and various visiting Mindoro organizations. Relevant activities shall be prepared and presented/offered to visitors and companions of visiting Balik-Mindoro attendees. The Provincial Tourism Office plans to have effective implementation of this Ordinance to make the celebration a succesful and meaningful for the participants. Mindoro International is the main coordinator between overseas and the Philippines in terms of preparations, programs, itinerary and more. Everyone is invited to join. This three-day on February 20 - 22, 2009 is for all Mindorenos regardless of which town you're from in Mindoro. You may contact us at mindorousa@yahoo.com for more details or if you have any questions. |
|||
Aceron, the current chair of the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Blood Council , advocates voluntary blood donations thru public education and information campaigns and conducts mobile blood donations province-wide. Lubang-Looc International's (LLI) time in Hawaii - a Hawaiian night, that is ! The officers and members of LLI have recently hosted another successful party to raise funds for their on-going scholarhsip program in Lubang-Looc, Occidental Mindoro. The event was held last July 19 at Lourdess Filipino Restaurant in Woodside, New York. Headed by Resty Aguilar, president, everyone had a good time dancing and meeting fellow Mindorenos and loyal supporters of LLI. Congratulations to you all at LLI !!! Aloha....Pictures of the event are in photo album. Mindoro International's annual picnic, another memorable event for all in the East Coast - Mindorenos from Connecticut, New Jersey and New York gathered, once again, in Astoria Park, Queens, New York last Sat., July 26. Old and new members of the association, together with their friends and relatives, were welcomed and duly entertained from noon to late afternoon. Winners of the parlor games received Mindoro tshirts aka Mindoy Ka (for Mang Mindo of our website). Towns of Pinamalayan, Bongabon, Bulalacao, Naujan, Roxas, Calapan City, Lubang and Mamburao were all represented a the picnic. Sincere appreciation is extended to all who attended and/or participated in the games and to those who brought in food, ice, chairs, tables, and lots of goodies. You may now view the pictures in our photo album. |
|||
Provincial Dental Association - Oriental Mindoro Chapter held an induction of their officers on July 14 at Riceland 2 in Calapan City. It was attended by Dra. Erlinda Basilio of Calapan City and outgoing president and Dra. Gloria Castillet of Victoria and incoming president of the association. Vice Governor Estee Aceron was the guest speaker of the event. Mindoro International annual picnic - We are inviting all Mindorenos, friends, relatives and neighbors to United Mindoro International's family picnic on July 26 Saturday from noon to evening. It will be held at the same Astoria Park in Queens, same location as last year's. It's below the Triboro Bridge facing the river coming from Hoyt Avenue. Potluck for all. For directions or more details, please call Juliet at 718 267 0221, Ellen 718 779 7040 and Ric 718 805 0175. Name Game contest is still on and will run until end of August. Send your winning entry anytime soon. The contest is about choosing one meaningful theme for the 1st Balik-Mindoro reunion next year. See details and guidelines below. A $ 50 prize is yours to keep as the winner. Good luck ! |
|||
Posted 7/11/08 Theme message must reflect the intended Balik-Mindoro event on February, 2009. Contest is open to all visitors of www.mindorousa.com website worldwide. The most significant and/or meaningful message or theme will be chosen as the winning entry. Winner will be awarded the $ 50 cash prize. Winner will be acknowledged in person on the stage during the event and will be given priority seating in all activities, when applicable. |
|||
|
|||
Posted 7/6/08 Halloo (that's in German) ...direct from Germany ! Here are the Mindorenos from Bonn, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt and Berlin. They all came to meet for the first time, and to some, after 40 long years or so. What an event it was ! A mixture of the old and the young generations of those who come or have roots in Mindoro, all gathered in one place. It was not difficult to recall the good old days while growing up in Mindoro. For the whole two weeks, they just kept on talking, laughing and reaching out like they were still in Mindoro. Truly bonded once again, the group is committed to continue what they have started and that is, to meet again and work on a project for Mindoro. Congratulations to Linda Magtibay Aytin and Christian Icalina for spearheading the preparations of the "grill" time (in Germany) or "picnic" time as we call it in America. "Danke" in German and "salamat" in Tagalog to those who made an effort to come to this first gathering. See you all again, same time next year ! For photos, go to photo album under Mindorenos in Germany. On a side note, we extend sincere condolences to the family of Kiko Infantado, III (son of Paquito and Fely Infantado) for the lost of his beloved wife and to his sisters, Analyn of Albany, New York and Debbie of Germany. Debbie was not able to join the scheduled reunion as she had to leave for Manila to attend to the funeral of her late sister-in-law. |
|||
And now, watch for the results of the Mindorenos in Germany reunion last week with photos. Also coming up will be the Name Game contest trivia. Susunod na...kaya mag-ready na tayong lahat. Compose one good one and claim the $ 50 prize ! |
|||
Advance registration by email or via post office mail is required. Confirmation will be sent to the participants upon receipt of registration fees (per person basis) which must be converted in US dollar value. It´s KKB...Kanya-kanyang book, kanya-kanyang bayad ! All airline reservations and accommodations will be handled and paid for by the participants themselves. Deadlines and mechanics will be posted in the website. Guests must be pre-registered to be included in activities/meals and ID badges distribution. The event starts on February 19 in Manila with two big arrivals at the airport to be welcomed with leis (Feb. 18 evening and Feb. 19 morning), then tentative schedule in Malacanang and free half-day sightseeing city tour in Manila (airconditioned bus) or catch us in Batangas City. Depart Manila the following day,Friday, for Calapan City via RORO with a DJ on board to provide music for entertainment. Again, two big arrivals will be welcomed at the Calapan City Pier by a marching band, complete with banners and streamers. Fiesta celebration at night, coronation of muses and cultural presentation are open to the public with Balik-Mindoro registered guests (overeas and Philippines-based) seated in preferred area. Food vendors are welcome in the vicinity (halo-halo, sago gulaman, sinulbot, BBQ, at marami pang iba) . Daytime activities are scheduled the following day, Saturday, with the grandest formal ball to be held at night with live music band and booths i.e. Mangyan Heritage, souvenirs, and others. A concelebrated mass at the Cathedral will follow on Sunday. Then at lunchtime, depart for Boracay via Roxas for an optional overnight stay. Another optional overnight trip to Puerto Galera will follow after the Boracay trip. Golf Day in Lipa City and ballroom dancing in Quezon City are also being considered after the optional tours. All optional tours and post-Balik Mindoro events are additional costs per participant. For those not joining the optional tours, only registration fee is to be paid for this event that will cover selected meals , grand ball fee and miscellaneous expenses of the event. Actual dates and prices will be posted in the website later. List of recommended resorts, hotels acommodations, meals, manner of payment and many more will be posted later. You can now extend an invite to your relatives, near and far in the Philippines to go home, too, and join us. Oo, kasali din sila. We are promoting this Balik-Mindoro event for all Mindorenos worldwide to experience, one more time, the joy of growing up in Mindoro. Happy memories are here again !!! |
|||
Posted 6/17/08 Countdown to our 1st Balik Mindoro !!! Just NINE more months to go and off we go to ...Mindoro. Everyone, keep visiting the site for updates of this event. Watch for the Sangguniang Bayan's Resolution honoring Balik-Mindoro program next year plus invitations to join Balik-Mindoro from Governor Arnan, Vice Governor Estee Aceron, Mayor Doy Leachon and many more. They are excited, we are excited, everyone is excited ! Let's all go for it in...2009 ! Money sent home through banks by overseas-based Filipinos rose 18.4 percent to $1.4 billion in April from a year earlier, much faster than the 9.4-percent increase recorded in March. The inflows in April brought total remittances in the first four months of the year to $5.4 billion, up 14.5 percent from the same period last year. The number of Filipinos who left for work abroad in the first four months rose 14 percent to 399,638, the central bank said in a statement, citing government figures. The central bank expects total remittances coursed through banks this year to reach a record $15.7 billion, up 9.0 percent from last year's $14.4 billion. |
|||
Posted 6/12/08 Here's Mang Mindo's, our mascot cartoon, message to all of you celebrating Father's Day this weekend....To all the fathers out there......HAPPY FATHER'S DAY !!! and to all the children, grown kids, in-laws, neighbors of senior citizens and more, let us not forget to wish the fathers near and far, be it yours or your relatives and friends, on their special day this Sunday !!! As confirmed by Ernie Cleofe, president of Oriental Mindoro Association of Southern California (OMASC), their next anniversary ball will be held on September 20, 2008 at the Marriott Hotel, Los Angeles airport location. Anyone interested to join may please contact Ernie of Calapan City, at ecleofe@aol.com. Lubang Looc International Inc. based in the East Coast will hold its annual picnic on August 16, 2008 at the Astoria Park, Queens area, New York City. Contact person is Tawel Abeleda at annette422@hotmail.com. More details to follow. United Mindoro International, Inc. in the East Coast will also hold its annual picnic on July 26 at the same Astoria Park, Queens area, New York City. Mindorenos in the tri-state area are invited to join this event. Contact mindorousa@yahoo.com for more details. Countdown is on for our NAME GAME contest ulit. This is our third !!! Be the winner, grab the prize and be proud of Mindoro. Clue ....think of Mindoro, love Mindoro, care for Mindoro ! . |
|||
|
|||
In the United States, another event will soon take place. Calapenos International, Inc. will celebrate their 2nd anniversary on October 25 at the Marriott hotel, Burbank location in California. The first was held in San Francisco area last November 2007. The Calapeno Ball for 2008 will include the Miss Calapan beauty pageant as a means of raising funds for the association's on-going projects. Candidates are Vanessa Joyce Castor of LA and daughter of Vanni Castor, Michelle Tricia Pait, daughter of Luz Acosta Pait of Las Vegas and Samantha Renee Iturralde, daughter of Paz Castillo Iturralde of San Francisco. The very supportive and generous Dr. Ting Luna of Calapan City, honorary member and adviser to the Calapenos, is also organizing a golf tournament as another means of fundraising. This year's committees are all revved up to make this affair another memorable event for all of us. Anyone interested to join may please contact Paz at gusamina@yahoo.com . And now, let us meet Penelope Villarica Flores of Calapan City. Go to SPECIAL PEOPLE (left side) for her outstanding profile. |
|||
Everyone, meet the newly-elected president of United Mindoro of Toronto, Rolly Mangante of Pinamalayan and Emily Abaja Fermin of Calapan City and founder of the association during its meeting and mini-reunion of fellow Mindorenos at Sunrise Restaurant. Pictures of folks in Toronto are now in photo album under MINDORENOS IN TORONTO !!! Congratulations to Rolly from Mindrenos worldwide. And now, let us welcome NEVADA MINDORO ASSOCIATION, the newly-created association for all Mindorenos living in Nevada. Just on its second month and second meeting, the group decided to move on as a team to assist Mindoro and fellow Mindorenos in the area. Orville Arias was unanimously elected as president. Other elected officers were Val Lopez, Vice President, Minerva Mendez Honkala, Secretary and Website coordinator, Connie Evelyn Tolentino, Assistant Secretary and the group's muse, Luz Acosta, Treasurer, Romy Tolentino, PRO and Business Relations Officer, Rose Castillo Kerley, Auditor and Eddie Infantado, Director. With Minerva as the chairperson, this new team hopes to start their project of donating new and used books to schools in Mindoro. A fundraising effort will start soon to finance the shipment of those books. Inspired by the succes of the Las Vegas group, Mindorenos in Germany and Mindorenos in Michigan will soon follow in creating more teams with the same purpose of helping Mindoro and fellow kababayan in their respective areas. Triple cheeers to all of them !!! More power to all of you. Applications for the new maroon-colored Machine Readable Philippine Passports will be accepted by the Philippine Consulate General New York starting June 2, 2008. As personal appearance at the Consulate General is required for finger-print and signature capture, applications submitted by mail cannot be processed. The Philippine Consulate General New York will only accept applications for the green Philippine passport until May 30, 2008. Processing of the MRP from the submission of the application form and data capture will be six weeks as all passport are processed by the Department of Foreign Affairs. For more information, please go http://pcgny.net or email us at mindorousa@yahoo.com so we can refer you to the right area. |
|||
Roll on- Roll Off (RO_RO) -The President issued Executive Order 170 in January 2003 to promote private sector participation and investment in the development and operation of the RO-RO ferry system as extensions of national highways under the SRNH. In March 2003, the President launched the first RO-RO route from Zamboanga del Norte to Batangas and, three months later, conducted an eight-day working visit in Mindanao where she issued Executive Order No. 170-A right here in this city directing the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and inviting local government units (LGUs) to provide improved road access to the RORO ferry system. A year later on March 21, 2004, the President kicked off the SRNH with a four-day caravan covering the provinces and cities of Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Batangas City in Luzon; Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental. |
|||
Vice Governor Estee Aceron infront of the UN in New York City - May 16, 2008. As one of the delegates and one of the guest panelists/speakers from different countries and international organizations to the 3rd Helena Benitez Global Forum, she made mention of the actual issues affecting women not only in Mindoro but in the country, as well. It was a great opportunity for her to revisit the issues concerning our women and see what the rest of the world is doing in addressing the same. A powerpoint presentation of her meaningful speech was well-received and applauded by all attendees. Congratulations Vice Estee for a job well done ! |
|||
A Mindorena chairs the grandest ball in the West Coast - Thelma Calabio of Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro is the chairperson of Kalayaan 2008 Gala Night dinner-dance to celebrate the 110th Philippine Independence. It will be held on June 14 at the Marriott Hotel Burbank location. It's the biggest gathering of Filipino Americans in Southern California with an expected guests of 1,200. This formal event will start at 7 PM. Thelma was born in Mamburao, went to college at Maryknoll and PWU and completed Masters Degree at UST. She taught at San Beda College in Manila for twelve years. Born to Aladino and Leonor Calabio of Mamburao, Thelma is the publisher of Famegate Magazine in LA. She lives in Beverly Hills and is an active community leader in Southern California. Everyone, let us congratulate, Thelma, isang Mindorena ! The Philippine Consulate General New York will hold a briefing on the New Machine Readable Passport (MRP) on May 22 at 6:30 PM at the Philippine Center, 556 Fifth Avenue, New York City. The MRP is a project of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to replace the existing Philippine Passport, in compliance with the requirements of the International Civil Aviation (ICAO), a UN agency created to promote the safe and orderly development of internatonal civil aviation throughout the world. In August 2007, the DFA started issuing MRPs in Manila. Those issued MRPs reported satisfaction in the speed of processing when entering a country and the ease of registration particularly at "self check-in" counters at US airlines. This June, the Philippine Consulate General New York will begin pilot-testing for the issuance of the maroon-colored MRP in place of the existing green passport. Anyone interested to attend or inquire about it, may please contact the Consulate at 212 764 1330 ext. 601, or ext. 312, ext. 602 and ext. 306. |
|||
Posted 5/19/08 |
|||
Posted 515/08
Vice Governor Estee Aceron of Calapan City is currently in New York as guest in one of the conferences being held at the United Nations this week. She will be meeting with some of the officers of United Mindoro International on Friday, May 16, to discuss current projects of the provincial government of Oriental Mindoro. United Mindoro of Toronto to meet on May 23 - Officers and members of this Toronto-based Mindoro group will have its next meeting at Sunrise Restaurant on Friday, May 23. Expected to attend are Homer and Vilma Bunag, Volet Turalba, Emily Abaja Fermin (founder), Rolly Mangante, Beth Ibe and visiting Juliet Payabyab, to name a few. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo congratulated the Bureau of Customs for sustaining the campaign against smuggling and for exceeding its target after collecting P21.71 billion last April 2008. Customs Commissioner Napoleon Morales informed her that because of the Bureau's tight watch against smuggling, the BOC was able to increase its target collection by P40 million last month. "The filing of smuggling cases by the Run After the Smugglers (RATS) group was also the result of the group's support to the anti-smuggling efforts of the administration", according to Atty. Reynaldo V. Umali, deputy commissioner and executive director of the RATS program. (Side note to Mindorenos: Atty. Ray Umali is from Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro). Posted 5/12/08 Global Warming Series - Your contributions to global warming ! Which items would you be willing or able to give up if it would improve air quality and reduce the rate of global warming? Which items are necessities in your life ? remember every activity that uses energy sends carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Every item adds, in a small way, to global CO2. Now, let's think GREEN. In the last few years, the word green has taken a new meaning. It's now synonymous with environmental or ecological. Cars are huge polluters so when cars burn alternative fuels, they pollute less. Some have turned to hybrid vehicles. The word hybrid means two or more things mixed together. It may use gas and electricity. Let's drive "greene". Plant a tree. A fast-growing tree can recycle almost 50 poounds of carbon dioxide each year. |
|||
Provincial Mobile Clinic for Oriental Mindoro - Here is the latest project for Mindoro, a mobile clinic equipped with X-ray machine, dental chair, generator, to name a few. Various Mindoro associations worldwide are encouraged to get the details of this project to be possible partners in supporting this worthy project. Please email mindorousa@yahoo.com for more information. Pictures of this mobile are in photo album, under Other People and Events (scroll down after birthday party). Mining situation in Calatagan, Batangas - Fifty-five torch-bearing farmers from Calatagan, Batangas marched to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Quezon City early Tuesday evening to demand the cancellation of an exploration permit it issued to a mining firm. The farmers, who arrived in Quezon City Tuesday on the ninth day of their protest march that began April 21 in Batangas, have also set up camp outside the Department of Agrarian Reform office to protest the conversion of the 507-hectare rice land they are tilling in Calatagan town into a mining site by the Asturias Chemical Industries (ACI). Lawyer Magistrado Mendoza Jr., legal counsel of the Calatagan farmers, said ACI has been twice slapped with fines for violating environmental laws.What we’re contesting is an issue the DENR-MGB (Mines and Geosciences Bureau) already knows -- Asturias is a delinquent mining contractor. In fact, Asturias has been twice slapped with fines for being delinquent,” Mendoza said.ACI’s mining exploration in Calatagan has been temporarily suspended on orders of Environment Secretary Lito Atienza, said DENR undersecretary Manuel Gerochi. |
|||
Posted 4/24/08 The Vietnamese are among the world's top five rice consumers. Banh Chung - or glutinous rice cake - is a popular dish during the celebration of the Lunar New Year (Tet). According to legend, 3 000 years ago the sixth King of the Hung dynasty nominated as his heir the person who offered Banh Chung to him during Tet. Over the years, Banh Chung has evolved into many forms and shapes. Since cooking one Banh Chung takes as much time as 10 Banh Chung, people usually prepare them in abundance. Thailand is one of the world's biggest rice producers, with paddy output of 27 million tonnes in 2003. Thailand is also the world's biggest rice exporter: annual shipments are worth more than $2,000 million and reached 7.5 million tonnes in 2003. Its main export markets are Indonesia, Nigeria, Iran, the United States and Singapore.Thailand is one of the world's biggest rice producers, with paddy output of 27 million tonnes in 2003. Thailand is also the world's biggest rice exporter: annual shipments are worth more than $2,000 million and reached 7.5 million tonnes in 2003. Its main export markets are Indonesia, Nigeria, Iran, the United States and Singapore. |
|||
It only took one week of planning and reaching out one another. On April 19, Saturday, Mindorenos in Las Vegas for the first time gathered around to meet and talk and laugh and talk and laugh. That was it ! It was a moment of rewinding good memories while growing up in Mindoro and just updating where they are now and where they would be in the next few years. Credit goes to Minerva Mendez for coordinating the event and to the attendees who contributed to this successful meeting. With a sincere desire to help Mindoro, the group unanimously chose Val Lopez to be this year's Chairperson for Mindoro projects and mini-gatherings to keep communication alive. Attendees were Eddie Infantado, Val Lopez, Minerva Mendez, Rose Castillo, Luz Acosta, Jun Pait, her husband and daughter, Trisha and Evelyn Tolentino. They were joined by Orlie Collantes of California , Juliet Payabyab of New York and Orville Arias. Genny de Guzman and husband, Mario Gamab later on met with them at the Plaza Casino to continue having fun by dancing and watching the Filipino band, Frontpage who played until midnight. For pictures, go to Photo Album under Las Vegas visit. |
|||
Everyone, meet the Mindorenos in Las Vegas during their first simple get-together, wearing Mang Mindo's tshirt. Not in picture were Orville Arias and Genny de Guzman. For more pictures of this gathering, go to Photo Album under LAS VEGAS visit 08. |
|||
In Calapan in the 60's civic-minded groups were formed by then the young and vibrant teenagers. They just needed to do something exciting every Summertime i.e. play basketball, host disco parties, or simply hanging out together for fun. So, Crusaders, Cobras, Shennanigans and Checkmates were born and became the unforgettable groups of people during that time (and until now). Club sweethearts were crowned during the "strictly by invitations only" grand ball (ballroom dancing 60's version) with "imported" live music band from Manila. Each group would then participate in the annual parade during the town fiesta in January in support of community events. Officers and members were duly inducted each year with the outgoing welcoming the new set of officers. Picnictime, gatherings, meeting old and new friends, as well, were just a few of the routine activities back then, memories that are now reminisced by members as they get older, day by day. And so here they are again, thinking of reviving those groups with the younger generations in mind as the new members. Wherever you are old members, please reach out to your own groupings and plan a reunion of your own in Calapan City. Your reunion will be synchronized with the 1st Balik-Mindoro week happening on February 19 to 22, next year in Calapan City. Isn't that exciting ? The Crusaders have already started reaching out and the Cobras also welcome the same idea...how about you guys ? Email mindorousa@yahoo.com if you are interested or simply need to contact them. Main Event in Calapan City....Oriental Mindoro High School Class '58 will celebrate their 50th year on May 2 to 4, 2008 in Calapan City. Remy Escalona Marasigan, Lily Menor Secrest, Yoly Marasigan Regala, to name a few, have been preparing for this grand reunion for a number of months now. Congratulations to you, all ! We are excited for you. Can't wait to see your photos for our website !!! Mini-mini reunion in Las Vegas - It's a simple get-together for some Mindorenos in Las Vegas on April 19 (Saturday), just "getting to know you" type of event. Expected to attend are Minerva "Melba" Mendez Honkala, Eddie Infantado and son, Meynard, Val Lopez, Orville Arias, Eden Barrientos Bangco, Luz Acosta and family, Rose Castillo Kerley, sister of Paz, Katherine Carrera, Lyle Carrera, Jun Anonuevo, Juliet Payabyab and few more TBD. Let's go, guys, come and join this gathering if you are around Las Vegas or want to come to Las Vegas next weekend. If you have friends from Mindoro in LV, please pass the word. Contact Minerva at 702 606 8287, United Mindoro Association of Toronto - Activities are as follows: May 4 Casino Rama fundraising; May 23 6 PM meeting at Prestige Restaurant; June 28 Annual Picnic, contact Beth Ibe. United Mindoro International - New York - Activities are : April 26 to meet with Percy Aranas, president of The Association of Mindorenos - Manila-based, and who is visiting New York; May 3, sponsor of Fr. Mimo's Acoustic Gospel concert in Queens; June 21, Atlantic City fundraising; June 28 Lubang Looc International Hawaiian Night fundraising. Calapenos International, Inc. - November 8, 2008 2nd Anniversary Ball. Early preparations are underway for this kind of event, second time around. We are here for you, Calapenos ! Just call and we'll be there, says Las Vegas, New York, Chicago, Calapan City folks !!! |
|||
The first day will be devoted for racing/exhibition, while the second day will be windsurfing lesson/lectures. Bulalacao is proud to have various islands/islets or attractions namely, Target Island, Balatasan, Tambaron Island, Aslom Island, Suguicay Island, Buyayao Island, Maasin Island and Fish Sanctuary at Poblacion. To make this event a successful one, an appeal for financial support is now being relayed to us Mindorenos worldwide by the Municipality of Bulalacao. Should you be interested in donating any amount towards this sports event happening soon, or contacting the organizers, please email mindorousa@yahoo.com. We will provide you details of this event and/or their bank account meant for this purpose. |
|||
China Bank - The opening and blessing of China Bank Calapan City Branch located in San Vicente is scheduled on April 11. Other banks already serving Oriental Mindoro are DBP, Land Bank, PNB, Metrobank, BPI, Bank of Commerce (formerly Traders Royal Bank), Banco de Oro (formerly Equitable PCI Bank), Allied Bank, Rural Bank of Baco, Rural BAnk of Pola, Rural Bank of Calapan, Country Bank, to name a few. Town of Bansud - A resolution was recently approved under Municipal Ordinance No. 012, s. 2007 of the Sangguniang Bayan of Bansud, entitled "An ordinance prohibiting smoking in schools, government offices and other public places, designating smoking areas thereon and prescribing penalties therefor", except Section VII (c)thereof. MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) Athletic Association Meet will be held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on 4/6 to 4/10. Oriental Mindoro is participating in the opening ceremonies with majority of government officials/town mayors expected to join the event. Oriental Mindoro will compete in volleyball, basketball, track and field and swimming. Coming up will be WINDSURFING EXHIBITION in Bulalacao Bay, Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro. We will give the details soon. Keep visiting the site !!! |
|||
|
|||
|
|||
Another meeting went very well yesterday, March 16, for United Mindoro International, Inc., an East Coast- based association of Mindorenos. It was their first meeting for 2008. With over 20 in attendance, the group welcomed four new members, Rea Wagan Pascua of Bongabong, Mila Cleofe Robleza of Calapan City and daughter, Sharon and Jojo Manato of Bansud. The meeting was held at Manny's Bake Shop located in Queens and is owned and managed by Marlyn Chua Hernandez (Calapan City) and husband, Manny (Bongabong). Projects discussed included recent donations of medical supplies to Or. Mindoro Provincial Hospital in Calapan City and Pinamalayan Health Center, 40 bags of corn seeds to Naujan farmers and electric fans to different towns in Oriental Mindoro. More similar projects are in the process of completion before the end of this year. |
|||
Posted 3/12/08 Holy Infant Academy (HIA) Batch 1964 had a blast ! It was a well-attended and well-organized reunion for '64 graduates last February 8, 9 & 10 at the El Pueblo Rizhort, Mahal na Pangalan, Calapan City. A dozen of the hundred attendees came from LA, SF, New Jersey and New York and the rests were from Calapan and Manila. Tears of joy, days of laughters, emotional hugs, games and spectacular and "surprise" performances were all shown and displayed during these 3-day reunion. The "hula" number from the America group was a hit with the boys giving an all-out hula dance while the Calapan group was hilarious with their singing of "Liwayway Gawgaw". The Manila-based group won the first prize for their unbeatable showmanship and colorful costumes. It was the group's first reunion in 43 years !!! But, hold on, they're thinking of having another one (again) in February next year in time to join the Balik-Mindoro global reunion...Congratulations to you, all !!! |
|||
To all Mindorenos, we would like to introduce to you our Police Chief Inspector. Jose Manuel Payos is just 34 years old but already the Police Chief Inspector and the 409th Police Provincial Mobile Group Commander. He comes from Bicol and currently assigned in Oriental Mindoro, 1st district. Congratulations ! |
|||
Health Watch ....Dengue fever - this infectious disease is manifested by a sudden onset of fever, with severe headache, muscle and joint pains and rashes. The dengue rash is characteristically bright red petechia and usually appears first on the lower limbs and the chest; in some patients, it spreads to cover most of the body. There may also be gastritis with some combination of associated abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Dengeu fever lasts about six to seven days, with a smaller peakof fever at the trailing end of the disease. |
|||
The Yellow Tide Aquino turned yellow into the color of her campaign. It was, personally, one of her favorite hues; but its political significance stemmed from the yellow ribbons tied around Manila's trees and posts (inspired by an American pop song) by the supporters of her husband to welcome him on what proved to be his tragic return home. Her rallies were seas of yellow. |
|||
Make a fist with your right hand, hold tight, then release, do the same with your left hand. Curl your toes tight, hold for a count of 10, then release in one foot, then the other. |
|||
Posted 2/25/08
Let's take a look at the current profile of our Oriental Mindoro Provincial Hospital...It is a 100-bed capacity secondary hospital with actual in-patient occupancy of 150 beds. The catchment area includes fourteen municipalities and one city with the total population of 705,000. It caters also to patients from Occidental Mindoro and the nearby islands of Romblon, Marinduque, and Verde The OMPH is composed of 12 one-level buildings. The main building was constructed in 1946 while the other buildings were either constructed, repaired and/or renovated during the past 5 years. The dormitory, morgue, garage and generator housing are beyond repair. One major concern is the low water pressure hence the shortage in water supply. The hospital is relatively well-equipped except for the annex, extension wing, and surgery ward. Funding -The hospital receives budgetary allocations from the provincial government amounting to about 52 Million pesos annually. Other sources of funds include Philhealth payment for services rendered and the capitation funds, as well as revenues generated from ancillary services and the private wards. Additional income comes from affiliation fees from nursing/care-giver schools. Other OMPH needs have been provided in kind through donations (equipment, instruments, supplies & consumables, and some medicines) from charitable organizations both local and foreign. Mission Statement: The
So here you go visitors of our website. OMPH needs your assistance financially or in kind. You may reach Dr. Fabon at omph_md@yahoo.com and ask him the kind of medical supplies that they currently need. Salamat po ! and try to read "Mindoro Visit" report posted 2/15/08. Keep scrolling down... Posted 2/22/08 A new photo album has just been created to showcase Mindoro Visit, town Mayors, Governors and resorts in Calapan and our visit to Lola Toyang. Go to Photo album and click on "MINDORO VISIT " now. |
|||
Posted 2/15/08 |
|||
Posted 1/ 7/08 Everyone, meet Fr. Pete Literal of Naujan and Pennsylvania. He is our special feature in SPECIAL PEOPLE column. Go to the said column for more details. The town of Naujan, Oriental Mindoro was placed under a state of calamity in November 2007 due to heavy damage caused by tropical storm Lando or Hagibis (international codename). Naujan town Mayor Romar Marcos said 15 to 20 villages were submerged under knee-deep to waist-deep floodwaters and that at least, 2000 families were evacuated from their homes. He said he had asked help from the Calapan City local government and the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Disaster Coordinating council for the evacuation of more families affected by the floods. Cebu Doctors' University topped the Dentist Licensure Examination last December 2007, accoriding to a release by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). Congratulations to Julie Ann Borromeo Lim of that school. Borromeo got an 82.47 % rating while Juan Rafael Silva from the University of the Philippines ranked second with 81.92 %. |
|||
United Mindoro International, Inc. - East Coast sponsored the 7th Simbang Gabi last night. It was held at the Philippine Center on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York City. Attended by Mindorenos, both from Oriental and Occ. Mindoro, and community leaders in the Fil-am community, the Mass was officiated by Msgr. Oscar Aquino, spiritual adviser. Rick Agay, Auditor, read the 1st reading followed by petition readers Rose Javier, VP, Ellen Cordova, Treasurer, Andrea Mahiya, adviser and Beth Edejer (guest). A second collection was done for the Sentosa Filipina nurses to help them in their legal defense and for the Aquas Filipino family, who all perished except for one son, in a recent fire in Union City, New Jersey. Mindorenos wore red and also became members of the choir for that night. Several dignitaries were also present headed by Ambassador Hilario Davide, permanent representative to the UN, Consul General Cecille Rebong (NY), Deputy Consul General Millie Thomaczek (NY), Consul General Blessy Cabrera (Chicago), Consul General Mary Jo B. Aragon (LA), Deputy CG Antonio Morales (SF), Consul General Ariel Abadilla (Honolulu), and Consul General Bayani Mercado (Aghana, Guam). Food reception was at the lobby of the Philippine Center were guests enjoyed the traditional "hamon and queso de bola" and Filipino dishes for the holiday season. Juliet Payabyab, president of United Mindoro association thanked everyone for their presence during her appreciation remarks. Pictures of this event to follow soon. So, Mang Mindo is back in Mindoro and this time, he reports that after the very memorable reception and accommodation extended to him by Linda and Pancho Macalintal, owners of Honey Beach resort in Lobo, Batangas, he is now enjoying the sights and sounds of Naujan and Victoria. He was met by Dr. Medel Vertucio for lunch and then went sightseeing at Naujan Lake. Later on, he visited Naujan Academy and the Parish chuch. And at Victoria, he visited Bishop's Farm, The Good Shepherd Parish and one Rambutan farm on the way to Socorro. And now that he's about to wrap up his trip, we hope that he did enjoy his Mindoro vacation. His place in the USA is now ready to welcome him back !!! Climate scientists have warned that developing countries such as the Philippines are at the top of the risk list on the impacts of climate change.In a recent report, the Philippines topped the list as the country most affected by climate change in 2006 due to extreme weather disasters. Sea level rise due to climate change is also projected to flood more than 1,000 coastal municipalities and cities in the country, including its capital, Manila.Inventor said that while the Philippines’ wind energy potential is estimated to meet seven times the country's total energy demand and the country's solar energy potential also possesses one of the highest efficiency ratings in the world, renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar, and modern biomass today represent less than 0.2 percent of the overall Philippine power mix. New Year's Eve in Paris ! Posted 12/26/07 Pictures...pictures and more pictures ! Go to Photo album for new pictures under "United Mindoro" (Simbang Gabi sa NY) , "Other People and Events"( Queen Wowowee) and "Calapenos Folks" (Dec. 20 gathering). "Tis the season to be jolly"...and to eat and greet kababayans in person. And that's what Calapenos folks did on December 20 at Pinoy Bistro restaurant in Cerritos, CA. It was definitely a happy event with the special presence of Ernie Cleofe, OMASC president, Lillian Arago Arcilla and Zenaida Catibog Zaura. The gathering was spearheaded by Orlie Collantes and his brother, Ronnie. And to all of our readers, feel free to share your holiday pictures with us, what you did for the holidays, anything special or whatever. Upload your pictures and a little write up or email it to mindorousa@yahoo.com and we will do it for you ! Posted 12/14/07 Santa's favorite stop in Sydney ! The City of Sydney's Christmas celebrations begin with ever-popular tree lighting in Martin Place. It was an evening of entertainment highlighted by the arrival of Santa on his sleigh ! The City's largest Christmas Tree, an impressive 20-metre tall traditional tree is the centrepiece of Christmas in the City. This news is being shared to all of us by our friends in Australia ! Countdown to our Name Game contest....just 3 days away !!! Have you composed your holiday message, wishes or greetings yet ? $ 50 is yours to keep if you got the best one. Go to Name Contest column for the rules. Happy Holidays !
And, now, introducing to you the winner of our Name Game Contest, Orlie Collantes of California ! Orlie posted the best meaningful holiday greetings before the deadline of December 23. $ 50 check goes to Orlie as his prize for winning in this contest. Congratulations ! And for those who missed the contest, watch for the next one coming up soon. Posted 12/17/07 Simbang Gabi is one of the longest and most popular among the Filipino traditions in the country. Simbang Gabi or Mass at Dawn is a nine-day novena to the Blessed Mother. The novena begins December 16 and culminates with the Misa de Gallo on Christmas Eve to welcome the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ. Simbang Gabi traces its roots in Mexico when, in 1587, the Pope granted the petition of Fray Diego de Soria, prior of the convent of San Agustin Acolman, to hold Christmas mass outdoors because the Church could not accommodate the huge number of people attending the evening mass. The changing of times does not break the preservation of celebrating Simbang Gabi although it is celebrated in new ways. |
