Zambales patriarch wins Ulirang Ama 2011

In a fitting celebration of Father’s Day, former governor and Liberal Party stalwart Attorney Amor Deloso wins Ulirang Ama 2011

A Zambaleño father of nine children — five of them lawyers, one a practicing doctor in the United States, another a soon-to-be engineer son, another son a soon-to-be lawyer, and a soon-to-be accountant daughter — is an awardee in this year’s Natatanging Ulirang Ama.

In a fitting celebration of Father’s Day, former governor and Liberal Party stalwart Attorney Amor Deloso reaped in the field of law and judiciary along with more than 20 other awardees in different categories.

The ceremony was held at the Century Park Hotel in Manila last Sunday.

The National Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Foundation Incorporated give the award yearly to fathers who exemplify outstanding performance as individuals in their field of endeavor and at the same time as fathers to their children.

The Ulirang Ama Award is a project of the foundation to help teach Filipinos to respect and honor their parents and strengthen family ties.

“It also offers Filipinos, especially the youth, with role models who exemplify integrity, high moral principles, and ideal care and nurturing of children,” the foundation said.

This year’s awardees also include Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Eduardo Oban, Congressman Bienvenido Abante, Philippine Navy Rear Admiral Edmund Tan, Bases Conversion and Development Authority Chairman Felicito Payumo, and former Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Commissioner Vicente De Lima, the father of Department of Justice Secretary Leila De Lima.

Honed by poverty, education

Two-time outstanding governor and brilliant lawyer Deloso came from humble beginnings whose parents imbued in him values of hard work, education, and concern for the plight of the man on th street.

He recalled how his mother Natividad used to seek help from wealthy businessmen in this town for his tuition fee, carrying with her and presenting his school card, in exchange for a day’s house labor.

“Life during those times was hard but I learned to persevere,” Atty. Deloso said.

He revealed that when it was time for him to have kids he told himself he will do everything to give them the best education they can have.

“But I didn’t forget the value of simple, frugal life so I enrolled them in public schools,” the former governor said.

His marriage to former Botolan town mayor Sally Poynter-Deloso blessed them with nine children namely Zarmi, Cheryl, Ad Hebert, Yodel, Arys, Omar, Renoir, Izelle Iamly, and Vijay Vianney.

Zarmi Deloso-Marasigan is a Diplomat Doctor of Medicine in the US, Atty. Cheryl Deloso-Montalla is a former vice governor of this province, Iba town Mayor Ad Hebert is also a lawyer and former fiscal in the province, Atty. Yodel Deloso-Penacho is a practicing immigration lawyer based in California. Fourth child Arys is also a lawyer and is a member of the Board of Regents at the Ramon Magsaysay Technological University (RMTU) here.

Omar is on his way to becoming another lawyer in the family who is now on his third year of law studies at the University of Santo Tomas (UST). Renoir is a geodetic engineering student at the University of the Philippines, Izelle Iamly—a Juris Doctor and just recently passed the Bar Exams, and Vijay Vianney is on his senior years in accountancy.

In all of these accomplishments, daughter Atty. Cheryl said their father gave them a free hand in choosing their careers in life.

“Majority of us opted to become lawyers not because he wanted us to become one but for us, this is our way of telling him that we idolize and honor him,” the former vice governor said.

Governance of educational reforms, poverty alleviation

In his 30 years as public servant who rose from being mayor of his hometown Botolan to becoming one of the most beloved governors of the province, Deloso actively pushed for reforms in education and espoused genuine care for the needy.

In his latest term as governor, he was able to put up more than 200 new classrooms and has funded repairs and improvements in a number of existing schools around the province.

“Too bad it was during my incumbencies that several disasters struck this province,” he recalled, pointing to the eruption of Mount Pinatubo and the devastating typhoons that wrecked havoc in the province that stalled developments.

In 2009, typhoons Kiko and Ondoy swept almost 70 percent of Botolan, leaving more than 3,000 families homeless and displaced.

Many indigents are witness to how the former governor treats the needy. In all of his stints as father of this province, he was often seen talking to the poor and asking them how he can help them.

The provincial capitol is always flooded with people from different walks of life and he always saw to it that the indigents were prioritized.

His executive assistant, Rene Totol, said that during Gov. Deloso’s last stint, the governor’s office was always filled with an average of 2,000 indigents per day with requests ranging from hospitalization to food to school matters.

“All of their requests were being tended to and we saw to it that as soon as they left the governor’s office, they had answers to what they came for,” Totol explained.

Even to this date, the former governor is regularly visited by indigents at his residence for personal requests. He makes it a point to help them in any way he can, even sending them to his son Ad Hebert who is mayor of this town.

The son gladly accommodates, saying that helping the people is a legacy he must continue, and should be continued along with his other siblings and family.(WLB/AMV-PIA 3 Zambales)

No NPA campaign tax in Zambales

IBA, ZAMBALES — Governor Amor Deloso said that here in this province, the New People’s Army (NPA) does not implement campaign taxes despite rumors that some of the candidates of other provinces in the country have been asked to pay for campaigning in their areas.

According to Deloso, they have already conveyed with the ranking officers of the NPA here, adding that it would go against their idealism of a free country if the only candidate capable of campaigning would be those who are rich.

“It would not be a free nation if the candidate who will campaign in those areas and win will only be those candidates with money. Ibig bang sabihin mayayaman lang ang puwedeng tumakbo? Deloso said.

Currently, the province of Zambales has around 7,000 rebels scattered all around the province and 1,500 of them are willing to vote this coming elections.

The province, Deloso said, attends to all sectors of the community especially during medical needs even if that sector is part of the NPA. “They are Zambaleños. If they need any help, especially medical attention, I will certainly attend to their needs,” he added. (Jonas Reyes)

US firm starts $50-b Zambales project

IBA, Zambales—Swiss Global Connect USA, an American financing company, broke ground for the first phase of its multi-billion peso project involving the construction of infrastructure projects, property development, tourism, mining and agricultural research center in this province.

Zambales inks multi-billion investment.Zambales Governor Amor Deloso signs the Memorandum of Ageement (MOA) with Swiss Global Connect USA and AIPAC Phil. Management Corp President Ms. Rubina Zahid that would earmark $50-Billion US over a 10-year period to fund priority projects in tourism, real estate, infrastructure, agriculture and mining. (Allen Villa, PIA-Zambales)

Zambales Gov. Amor Deloso led the groundbreaking ceremony with Rubina Zahid, president of AIPAC Philippines Management Corp., Swiss Gobal’s local partner. AIPAC committed to provide $50 billion to finance the project.

Deloso said Swiss Global would implement the project under the government’s build, operate and transfer and build, operate and own programs.

Deloso said the first phase of the project involved a mass housing project in Botolan town for some 5,000 residents displaced by a series of typhoons last year and the rehabilitation of the six-kilometer Bucao river dike.

“The provincial government has outlined a 10-year infrastructure development programs identifying the Zambales dream project which was envisioned to spur economic growth in the province,” Deloso said.

Priority projects are on tourism and real estate development, infrastructure, agricultural research, indigenous power supply, and mineral enhancements and exploration sectors.

“I would like to thank Swiss Global Connect USA and AIPAC Philippines Management Corp. for believing in the Zambales 2020 vision,” Deloso said.

Zahid said her company had set its eyes on Zambales because of its natural beauty and topography.

She said the projects would generate substantial direct ventures through “foreign investment multiplier effect.” manilastandardtoday.com - by Cecille Garcia - manilastandardtoday.com

P260M lost in Iba public-market fire

IBA, Zambales—Fire of suspicious origin razed the building housing this capital town’s public market on Tuesday night, destroying some P260 million in properties and merchandise.

The blaze, which reportedly started in three locations within the building, quickly engulfed the two-story steel-and-concrete structure that was built in 1986, witnesses said.

The “slow reaction” of local firefighters, who reportedly deployed an empty water truck to the fire scene, made matters worse for more than 200 stall owners occupying the public market.

“In a matter of 15 minutes, the market was totally consumed by fire,” said public prosecutor Adhebert Deloso, son of Gov. Amor Deloso, who was then attending a late Christmas party about 300 meters from the market.

“The Iba fire truck arrived at about 9 p.m., but [the water tank] was empty,” he said, quoting investigation reports.

“The fire was only contained hours later when fire fighters from the NETC [Naval Education and Training Command], the PMMA ?[Philippine Merchant Marine Academy] and the SBMA [Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority] arrived,” Deloso added.

“Without help from the NETC, PMMA and SBMA, the fire could have spread to the nearby residential areas in barangay Zone 1.”

Deloso said that there are “strong indications that it was a case of arson,” citing reports that days before the fire, there were already rumors that the market would be burned down.

He said it was “unbelievable” that an unattended cooking fire in one of the stalls caused the blaze.

According to Hernan Moises, owner of a shoe store in the public market, several fires seemed to have started all at once just before 9 p.m. on Tuesday.

“We’re already here at about 9 o’clock and there was one fire at the first floor there,” Moises said, pointing to the western side of the market.

“There was another at the dry- goods area in the middle of the building,” he added.

The simultaneous fire scenario was also confirmed by at least two other stallholders who asked not to be named.

According to Hernan Cortez, chairman of barangay Lipay Dingin and one of the local officials who first responded to the emergency call, most of the merchandise lost in the blaze were intended for New Year.

“They have already stocked on chicken, cold cuts and other foodstuffs for the Media Noche [the traditional New Year’s Eve dinner celebrated by most Filipino households],” Cortez said.

Lina Bernan, who sold ladies’ accessories at the dry-goods section of the market, said she lost some P500,000 in inventories.

A rice dealer, meanwhile, lost some P7 million in the blaze, Deloso said.

Deloso, who is running for mayor of Iba town in the coming May 2010 polls, said that traders who lost their livelihood in the fire “should be given soft loans for them to start anew.”

He added that the legal question on the 5,000-square-meter lot where the public market is located should be settled as early as possible.

He said that while the Iba municipal government owned the market building, the land is being claimed by the Garcia family, who reportedly owns large landholdings in Zambales.

Recently, the municipal government lost the case to the Garcias, leaving the public market a virtual squatter in the area.

Deloso said that to resolve the issue, the government should decide to either relocate the market to another area or expropriate the land from the Garcia family. Written by Henry Empeño Business Mirror Correspondent

Deloso unfazed by Magsaysay and Ebdane team up

IBA, Zambales—Governor Amor Deloso has welcomed the alliance between two powerful politicians who are contesting his reelection bid in the gubernatorial seat.

"The team-up of former public works and hghways secretary Hermogenes Ebdane and former Zambales governor Vicente Magsaysay has made my reelection bid a bit harder than before," Deloso said.

But Deloso said he is confident that the people of Zambales would reelect him as governor for another term, adding that his years of service will hinder Ebdane's plans to become governor.

Unfazed by the team-up of Magsaysay and Ebdane, Deloso reiterated that the people would still look for a leader who is approachable and light-hearted.

He also said that even if eight of the mayors of Zambales have expressed their support for Ebdane, he has shown that he can win the position despite him only having one mayor in the whole of Zambales supporting him.

In the past election, Deloso won over Magsaysay who has the support of almost all the mayors in Zambales except one. "That was a classic fight. I won over him without any support from most of the mayors in Zambales," he said.

Deloso said that such political leaders can be bought but not family friends, reiterating that his grassroots method is to ensure that every family head here in Zambales is his friend.

He added that the value of money is not how much you can spend for everything you want, but what you have when you need it most. By JONAS REYES - Manila Bulletin

Zambales losing P3-billion tax due to DENR mining deal

IBA, Zambales – The province of Zambales is losing some P3-billion in taxes due to the Mineral Production Sharing Agreements (MPSA) signed between large-scale mining companies and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Governor Amor Deloso said that at the moment there are around 30 MPSAs covering the mountains of Zambales.

“Zambales has lost about P3 billion in taxes due to the MPSAs. It is certainly unfair to my people that they don’t gain anything from these when they suffer from the pollution and the other inconveniences it (mining operations) brings,” he said.

Large-scale mining corporations pay taxes directly to the national government and have produced billions of pesos while small-scale mining here only produced some P135 million worth of tax.

Under the current set-up, local governments like Zambales have no control over large-scale miners despite being host to their operations. Local government units (LGUs) only regulate small-scale mining.

Deloso said large-scale mining corporations have no “social conscience” and have been ravaging the lands for the past 75 years.

Despite the MPSA, Deloso said, mining companies operating in Zambales should contribute to the development of this province aside from just enriching themselves.

Deloso said, “They should show some social conscience because they’re just permittees who make a living out of our land. They don’t own the mountains here. They should give us some respect.”

Zambales has been one of the richest areas in terms of mineral deposits, but have failed to gain development since the start of mining operations 75 years ago.

Deloso said the reason why Zambales hasn’t risen to the ranks of being a fully-develop province is that most of the taxes that come from mining go directly to the national government. By JONAS REYES - Manila Bulletin

After junking prexy bid, Ebdane runs for Zambales governor

OLONGAPO CITY, Philippines — A few days after quitting the presidential race, former Public Works secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. decided to train his sights on the gubernatorial race in his native province of Zambales.

Governor Amor Deloso, who Ebdane will face in the race, said he was both “sad and worried" that a “presidentiable like Ebdane is challenging me.”

“But on the other hand, I guess it is okay because it seems like it would take a big man to fight me,” said Deloso, a member of the Liberal Party.

Ebdane, who pulled out of the race due to lack of funds to mount a nationwide campaign, filed his certificate of candidacy for governor under the Workers and Peasants Party.

Deloso said Ebdane filed his CoC at the Commission on Elections office in the capital town of Iba at about 5:30 p.m. Tuesday. By Robert Gonzaga - Inquirer Central Luzon Desk

5,800 Botolan folk told to permanently leave homes

Zambales Gov. Amor Deloso said residents of four barangays in Botolan town have to permanently abandon their homes as the Bucao River continues to flow through their villages toward the South China Sea.

Rampaging waters from the Bucao River, which first wreaked havoc in Botolan during storm “Kiko” last Aug. 6, have prevented some 5,800 evacuees from returning to their homes in Barangays Carael, Paudpod, Batonlapoc, and lower San Juan.

A dike breached during Kiko collapsed again during tropical storm “Ondoy.”

An official of the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council earlier admitted that the natural channel of the Bucao River used to flow through the four affected barangays.

Earlier, Chief Superintendent Leon Nilo de la Cruz, Central Luzon police director, said the government would permanently relocate the displaced residents and allow the Bucao River to run its path now.

De la Cruz said Public Works and Highways Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane reached this decision in a recent meeting of the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council.

“The decision was to let the river seek its natural course,” he said, echoing statements that the Bucao River has merely reclaimed its original channel.

Flooding since Ondoy has affected 10 out of 31 barangays in Botolan, but the four barangays that Deloso named were the most severely affected.

The provincial government, Deloso said, is now drafting a master plan for a 4,000-unit socialized housing project that will be put up on a 52-hectare land he himself donated near the still-to-be-completed Iba-Tarlac Road in upper San Juan.

Deloso could not readily give an estimate of the cost of each housing unit but said the road construction alone would amount to some P61 million.

“We are trying to lessen the cost of the project so that the beneficiaries will not have a hard time paying for their units,” he said. By Ding Cervantes (The Philippine Star)

Deloso mulls housing, dike reconstruction to start Botolan rehab

Iba, Zambales -- As soon as the rains stop Zambales Governor Amor Deloso lined up socialized housing and the Bucao River dike reconstruction as among the priority infrastructures the provincial government will undertake to rehabilitate the town of Botolan.

Botolan was badly ravaged by a series of typhoons and torrential rains that started with tropical storm Kiko last August 6, inundating 10 of its 31 barangays and displacing almost 5,000 families due to flash floods that destroyed some 600 houses.

Governor Deloso said that it is high time for the victims of the calamity to seek safer grounds to live, especially those residents from Barangays Carael, Batonlapoc, lower San Juan area and Paudpod.

Among the flooded barangays, the four mentioned areas took severe beating as flash floods containing rolling rocks and mud buried houses in the vicinity when the dike along the Bucao River was breached by rampaging waters.

The provincial government, Deloso said, is in the process of developing the master plan for a 4,000-unit socialized housing project which will be put up in upper San Juan, in a 52-hectare land he himself donated. The piece of land is near the still-to-be completed Iba-Tarlac road.

Deloso cannot readily estimate how much will a unit cost but said that road construction alone will amount to around P61 million.

"We are trying to lessen the cost of the project so that the beneficiaries will not have a hard time paying for their units," the governor said in Tagalog but also said that they will make the units elegant just like those subdivision homes created by Camella.

"Many of those whose houses were destroyed belong to the middle income earners and some have relatives abroad or came from abroad so we are giving them a chance to relive what they have before this calamity struck," he clarified.

Lessening the cost, he said, would entail a concerted effort from all the stakeholders—the provincial and the national government including DSWD and other concerned NGAs—plus kindhearted benefactors.

"The noble deed of these benefactors will not be put to naught as we will acknowledge their work by using their names to tag streets and blocks of the housing project," Deloso quickly said.

He will also involve all the able-bodied evacuees as laborers for the housing units through food-for-work program or directly employ them with minimum wage pays.

As for the renovation of the dike, Gov. Deloso reiterated his appeal to the national government for funding because the provincial government, he said, cannot afford the estimated amount to be used for the reconstruction.

"Improving the dike from the previous sand, soil and concrete component to a more solid, concreted steel type is pegged at around P200 million covering the whole 10 kilometer stretch," the governor said.

He also renewed his offer to those who need sand for personal use to extract from the Bucao River bed for free and help dredge and desilt the area.

"Those who will be using it for commercial purposes will be allowed to extract sand at a discounted price. Proceeds from this operation will be used to lessen the cost of the dike reconstruction or for the socialized housing project," Deloso added.

He said that the area is also rich with black sand, a mineral used for making steel, and invited interested businessmen to inquire at the governor's office for the requirements in processing the permits.

Meanwhile, relief operations are continuously being undertaken by the provincial government through the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC).

As of October 5, PDCC reports more than 5,800 families or close to 23,500 individuals have been affected by the spate of typhoons that hit the province.

Around P21 million have been spent for relief operations and other assistance as of August 22, 2009.

This week, donations from the Makati City government amounting to half a million for 1,800 families and 25 sacks of rice from the Victory Liner, Inc. bus company arrived.

The 25 sacks was added to the previous 50 sacks donation by the same company last week. by Allen Villa - PIA

NASA CLEARLY PREDICTED SEVERE FLOODING HAPPENING TODAY IN LUZON

Zambales inks $50-B investment

Zambales inks $50-B investment with US-Russian-Japanese partners

Iba, Zambales -- Governor Amor D. Deloso, receiving what he said was the best birthday gift in his entire life, signed yesterday a $50-Billion investment earmarked for priority projects in tourism, real estate development, infrastructure, agricultural research, indigenous power supply and mineral enhancements in the province.

Coinciding with his 71st birthday, the Memorandum of Agreement was inked between the Provincial Government and Swiss Global Connect USA in partnership with AIPAC Philippines Management Corporation in accordance with the built, operate and transfer (BOT) or the built, operate and own (BOO) programs of the national and provincial government, and was witnessed by various political leaders, heads of agencies, guests and well-wishers.

Swiss Global Connect USA and AIPAC Philippines Management Corporation is listed as a registered corporation duly authorized by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is represented by its President/CEO Ms. Rubina Zahid.

main company, the Swiss Global Connect USA Inc, is a partnership of Russian, Japanese and American businessmen and is listed as a corporation in the State of California, USA.

Based on their unsolicited proposal which was unanimously approved by the Provincial Board in July, an initial $50-Billion US will be earmarked over a 10-year period to fund the province's development projects in tourism that include the San Salvador Island, Masinloc Resort Complex; Mt. Tapulao, Palauig Tourism Complex; Zambales Fantasy Island in Subic.

Infrastucture development including the Toll By-pass Expressway linking Tarlac and Zambales and incorporating it with the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX); and the upgrading and rehabilitation of the Iba Airstrip into a domestic airport.

620-hectare real estate development in the town of Subic transforming the area into a financial district, educational and learning center, with executive housing, parks, hotels, convention center and state of the art hospital.

A state-of-the-art agricultural research center in a possible tie-up with the Ramon Magsaysay Memorial State University (RMMSU) for research and development, equipped with modern laboratory equipments and machines that is envisioned to usher increased productivity consistent with the poverty alleviation programs of the province.

Allocation of at least 64-hectare shoreline area for the construction of a facility converting magnesium energy into alternative power supply.

exploration consistent with full compliance of environmental policies; and the dredging of Macolcol, Maloma and Bucao rivers to prevent flash flooding in nearby communities.

In her speech shortly after the MOA signing, Ms. Zahid said that their company has really set its eyes on Zambales because of its natural beauty and topography.

"We certainly see that these proposed projects will substantially enhance the image, not only of Zambales but of the entire Philippines amidst the global economic meltdown," Zahid expressed.

Zahid added that the investment will generate substantial direct investment through "foreign investment multiplier effect," contributing to the GNP and GDP and infusing critically needed cash-flow to spur countryside development and employment generation.

Gov. Deloso, for his part, said that his administration is committed to support all the necessary assistance the investors needed for the success of the project.

"I would like to thank Swiss Global Connect USA and AIPAC Philippines Management Corp for seeing the positive features of this province and for believing in the Zambales 2020 vision."

"We will walk through this development with you and give you all the support you will need from my administration," the Governor exclaimed.

Deloso also said that President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo deserves praises too because he believes that the multi-billion investment is an off shoot of the President's state visits to various nations.

"She carries the development portfolios of all the provinces with her whenever she goes out of the country, as what I have experienced when she invited me to go with her to Korea," Governor Deloso explained. (By Allen M. Villa - PIA-Zambales)

Hanjin helps Botolan folks

Biggest shipbuilding company in RP donates P.5-Million construction materials to victims of Kiko

Iba, Zambales -- Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction Co. Ltd.-Philippines, Inc. (HHIC-Phil Inc.),one of the world's biggest shipbuilding company, donated more than half a million peso worth of building & construction materials to be utilized in Botolan town as part of the rehabilitation efforts by the provincial government to help the victims of Typhoon Kiko.

The materials include seven large truckloads of cement, corrugated G.I. sheets and concrete hollow blocks.

Ten barangays of Botolan were swept by flash floods last month as torrential rains brought about by the onslaught of Kiko destroyed a dike along the Bucao river. Some two thousand families were rendered homeless because of the disaster and are now housed in six evacuation centers in the town.

In a ceremonial turnover held at the Provincial Capitol, Mr. Taek Kyun Yoo, General Manager for External Trade Part of HHIC-Phil Inc., said that apart from canned and dry goods they have initially donated "we also see the urgent need for the repair of houses destroyed by the typhoon."

"We are hoping that these building and construction materials will help the people of Botolan who were devastated because of Kiko," Yoo added.

Governor Amor Deloso warmly received the Hanjin officials and thanked them for extending their hand to help the communities outside the shipbuilding company in Subic.

The Governor clarified though that the construction materials will be used for the planned relocation areas in Barangay Babon San Juan, Botolan as the areas where the residents came from are now declared unsafe for habitation.

"As I enjoin all concerned agencies to be one with me in this difficult but surmountable situation, I am thankful for our friends in the private and business sector, including the Hanjin Shipbuilding Company for lending us a helping hand in times of need."

"These materials will go a long way in the construction of a safe haven for the residents of Botolan who were affected by the disaster," Gov. Deloso said.

"Lahat ng resources ng iba't ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan ay hinihingi o hinihiram natin upang matulungan ang mga nasalanta ng kalamidad."

"It is only through teamwork that we will be able to get past this disaster, let us set aside politics and get the job done," the Governor added.

As part of a continuing commitment to help the communities around the shipbuilding company, HHIC-Phil Inc. also donated around a million peso worth of construction materials and relief goods to the victims of Typhoon Cosme last year.

HHIC-Phil Inc. is providing employment to more that 18,000 workers primarily coming from Zambales and nearby provinces, and enjoys continued growth despite the global financial crisis. (by Allen M. Villa / PIA-Zambales)

PGMA visits Zambales

P2.1-M relief goods distributed in Zambales as PGMA visits typhoon victims anew

Zambales -- Amidst the gloom that blanketed residents of Botolan, Zambales when the wrath of Typhoon Kiko hit their town, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo gave them something to cheer about as the Chief Executive distributed relief goods amounting to some P2.1 million.

PGMA visited yesterday the TLRC compound in Barangay Taugtog, the second visit to this town this month, to distribute relief packs of rice, noodles, sardines and other basic hygiene needs to more than 1,200 families or around 5,000 individuals.

TLRC, which house some 1,200 evacuees, is one the six remaining evacuation centers out of the total 13 centers opened during the height of flooding last August 6, 2009.

Flash floods swept Barangays San Juan, Paudpod, Batonlapoc, Carael, Paco, San Miguel, Tampo, Beneg, Capayawan and Bangan when the one-kilometer portion of a dike along the Bucao River collapsed due to heavy rains brought about by "Kiko."

The incident effectively isolated five northern towns of this province as strong currents from the river sought a new path destroying a portion of the national highway along Barangay Carael.

As of the latest report issued by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office III, a total of P19.7 million assistance from all concerned agencies, LGUs and NGOs have already been extended.

Carael Highway now passable

Joining the President were Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) Chief Glen Rabonsa and Subic-Clark Alliance for Development and Luzon Urban Beltway Champion Secretary Eduardo Pamintuan.

They were received by Governor Amor Deloso, Vice Governor Ann Marie Gordon, and Botolan Mayor Rogelio Yap.

President Arroyo also inaugurated the newly-constructed 60-meter steel bridge crossing the new river along the Carael Highway linking anew Northern Zambales to the southern towns including Subic and Olongapo. Travel to the Northern part of the province had to be made through Pangasinan after Typhoon Kiko swept Botolan.

PGMA gave strict instructions to DPWH officials during her first visit to the town (August 10) to finish the bridge in three weeks. DPWH Engineers responded swiftly, finishing the bridge in just 2 weeks.

Innovative but risky means to cross the raging river such as riding a motorized banca were introduced to mostly residents of nearby southern town while the highway was impassable.

The journey required a 3-kilometer tricycle ride from the highway near the Bucao River to the inner western portion of Barangay Carael, the boat ride that take passengers some 2 minutes to cross the new river and headed towards Barangay Bangan of the same town and another 3 to 4 kilometers of tricycle ride going to the nearest town of Iba.

The two tricycle rides cost passengers P40 each while the boat ride cost 30 pesos. Discounts were given to senior citizens and students.

A footbridge made of wood and galvanized iron tubes that lessened travel and expenses was constructed a week before the completion of the steel bridge.

Rehabilitation costly but recommended. Both the DSWD Field Office III and the Governor's Office through the Provincial Social Welfare & Development Office and the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council, which Gov. Deloso head, recommended rehabilitation plans for the town that include housing units for deserving victims (P1.10M from DSWD estimate); immediate repair of roads and bridges (P10.4M from PDCC estimate); dike rehabilitation and reconstruction (P205M from PDCC estimate); rehabilitation of schools (P29M, PDCC estimate); and construction barangay health units, day care centers and centers for the elderly (P1.5M, DSWD estimate).

"We badly need the help of the Office of the President on this costly undertaking but I am confident Madame President Gloria will oblige. She has a heart for the poor and needy, as shown in her visits to this town," Governor Deloso said in an interview shortly after PGMA left the TLRC compound.

"Ngayon pa lang, in behalf of my fellow Zambaleños, I am extending my heartfelt gratitude to President Arroyo," the Governor added. (by Allen Villa PIA-Zambales)

Zambales Mining Board on watchlist

PMRB: A watchdog in need of watching

Manila Times

The Provincial Mining and Regulatory Board (PMRB) acts like the Environment department’s eyes and ears on the ground when it comes to how mining is being carried out in a particular, well, province. Among other things, a governor approves the issuance of a small-scale mining contract only upon the recommendation of the board.

To ensure that the concerned sectors have their say in the board, the Small-Scale Mining Act stipulates that the board’s five members be made up of one representative each from the regional office of the environment department, the office of the governor, the large-scale mining industry, the small-scale mining sector and civil society.

The environment department representative chairs the board, thereby keeping it under the control of the national agency. But that no longer seems to be the case in Zambales, where the board has been packed with the governor’s handpicked appointees.

For sure, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has held on to its single board seat. But that’s still one against four. Aside from provincial legal counsel Noel Ferrer, the governor’s representative, there is small-mining permit-holder Arsenia Lim for the small-scale mining sector, and Deody Solee of FIL-ASIAN Mining for the large-scale mining industry. There is also Dr. Teresa Yap of the Zambales Tourism Council Foundation.

Questionable appointments

In a 2007 letter to Environment Secretary Lito Atienza, Gov. Amor Deloso of Zambales admitted that he had tapped Lim and Solee for the board “even without prior endorsement from their respective sector inasmuch as there is no existing organization yet in the province for small-scale miners and large-scale miners.”

Apparently he did not bother to consult the Chamber of Mines and the Small-Scale Mining Association, which, the law says, gets to nominate one representative each to the board “in case of the absence of nominees from the area.”

The appointment of Yap to the board is also questionable since according to law, the representative from a “non-government organization must come from an environmental group duly accredited by the DENR.”

Yap, a dermatologist, admitted that her group was not registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). No other group was considered for the bureau, she said. According to Yap, she had been part of a group that met with Deloso to ask that Mount Tapulao, Zambales’s highest peak, be spared from mineral exploration. ”I was a bit outspoken during the meeting, and right there and then he asked me to join the board,” she said.

At the very least, that may mean she would be willing to vote against the governor if necessary, even though Deloso may still have the numbers.

In fact, a sixth person used to attend the board meetings, although the board members would not allow him to vote. On August 13, 2007, the Zambales Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved a 30-page ordinance that, among other things, expanded the board’s membership to six.

The provincial board’s environment committee chairman was to be the newest member of the Provincial Mining and Regulatory Board. That happened to be Sanggunian Panlalawigan member Samuel Ablola, who was, interestingly enough, the ordinance’s author.

Ablola insisted on sitting in the board, despite an October 5, 2007, Special Order by Secretary Atienza reiterating the group’s five-member composition. Reports from Zambales, however, now say that Ablola, offended that other members barred him from voting, recently stopped attending the board’s meetings. Board insiders said they were waiting for an opinion on the matter from the capitol’s legal department.

Illegal act

In the meantime, other legal experts say the provincial ordinance was pretty much like a local body amending a republic act, which just won’t do.

Comments Marvic Leonen, dean of the College of Law of the University of the Philippines: “No action by the local government can amend the law.”

Environmental lawyer Ipat Luna agrees. “The Sangguniang Panlalawigan cannot supersede the Small-Scale Mining Act, because it is the baseline law,” she says. “They cannot ignore the Small-Scale Mining Act, they can only add to the rules.”

Kiko leaves 1,946 homeless in Zambales

Typhoon “Kiko” has left some 1,946 residents of Botolan, Zambales homeless after the flood control dike in Bacao River collapsed from continuous heavy rains, the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC) here reported.

The RDCC said the flood waters came from Mt. Pinatubo where five persons, including three French tourists, died because of landslides.

Ten barangays in Botolan were hit by floods induced by the typhoon that hit Northern Luzon last week,

because the Bucao dike suffered a breach.

Residents affected by the floods are staying at evacuation areas in the province where the RDCC, the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Botolan Municipal Government and the Zambales Provincial Government are assisting calamity victims.

PNRC chairman, Sen. Richard Gordon, PNRC visited the flood victims last Sunday and helped hand out relief goods.

While the RDCC is yet to estimate the damage in the province, Gov. Amor Deloso said that P205-million would be needed for the reconstruction of the dike and road destroyed during the typhoon.

“At least P175-million would be needed to fund the rehabilitation of the flood control dike alone,” Deloso said.

She said the 800-meter dike should be repaired as soon as the weather improves.

The governor said that another P30 million is needed for the repair of the San Juan National Road.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the dike and road, still impassable as of press time, would take at least a month.

Public Works and Highways Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. and DPWH Asst. Regional Director Domingo Mariano inspected the damage last Friday.

Mariano said that the national government had instructed DPWH to take necessary actions as soon as possible because the damaged road is the most convenient way to go from Manila to Iba, Zambales, the province’s capital.

“Flood is a perennial problem in Zambales but this one is unforeseen because we did not expect that the dike will be destroyed,” Mariano said. By MARK ANTHONY N. MANUEL - Manila Bulletin

PGMA visits Zambales to check on victims of typhoon

Iba, Zambales -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo cut short her scheduled six-event visit to Guagua, Pampanga yesterday and flew via the Presidential Chopper to Botolan in Zambales to check on the victims ravaged by typhoon Kiko, pledging to fast track rehabilitation and relief operations in the area.

Flash floods swept Barangays San Juan, Paudpod, Batonlapoc, Carael, Paco, San Miguel, Tampo, Beneg, Capayawan and Bangan in Botolan town when the one-kilometer portion of a dike along the Bucao River collapsed due to heavy rains brought about by "Kiko."

The incident effectively isolated five northern towns of this province as strong currents from the river sought a new path destroying a portion of the national highway along Barangay Carael.

Joining the President were Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane and National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) Chief Glen Rabonsa.

They were received by Governor Amor Deloso, Zambales 2nd District Congressman Antonio Diaz, Philippine Merchant Marine Academy President Admiral Fidel Diñoso, Philippine Army 7th ID Gen. Ralph Villanueva, Philippine National Police (PNP) Provincial Director Col. Rolando Felix and Botolan Mayor Rogelio Yap.

In a dialogue with evacuees in Upper San Juan Evacuation Center, PGMA assured them that the national government will closely coordinate with Gov. Deloso in providing some 10,000 victims with alternative housing as their original houses were either totally swept away by floodwaters or are standing but were half or totally buried by mud and sand.

The President also instructed Secretaries Teodoro, Ebdane and Rabonsa to work together to speed up rehabilitation of the damaged dike along Bucao River and the construction of a temporary bridge along the national highway in Carael to connect North and South Zambales.

Meanwhile, Gov. Deloso reported that around P175 Million would be needed to repair the collapsed dike.

He added that the DPWH has already released an initial amount of P5 Million to put up a footbridge and rechanneling of the river that crossed the national highway in Carael.

"Meron initial P3 Million calamity fund na kami na nakalaan sa basic needs ng mga evacuees. We certainly need our friends in the national government to help us in providing them with permanent shelters and lands as the effect of this disaster is truly massive." (PIA)

Zambales launches 1st Citizen's Charter in Central Luzon

Iba, Zambales -- In adherence to the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007, the Zambales Provincial Government, in partnership with the Provincial Civil Service Commission (CSC), launched yesterday the Citizen's Charter of the Province of Zambales, streamlining government services to serve Zambaleños promptly and effectively.

The event was attended by employees of the provincial government, Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies (NGAs) and representatives from the business sector.

Also known as Republic Act 9485, the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 is a decree aimed at improving the "efficiency in the delivery of government service to the public by reducing bureaucratic red tape, preventing graft and corruption, and providing penalties therefore."

It was passed by the Thirteenth Congress and was signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on June 7, 2007.

At the provincial level, Governor Amor D. Deloso tasked all heads of government agencies in Zambales to develop and make set of rules to enforce the law.

Thus, with the guidance of the CSC, the Council of Personnel Officers of Zambales and all the heads of the provincial government agencies grouped together, did situational analysis, identified the frontline services and then developed systems of procedure which will be strictly followed in transactions with the specific agency.

These standard procedures or procedural flows are compiled together and was later called "Citizen's Charter." Copies of the charter will be posted in conspicuous areas of all government agencies for the public to see.

CSC Region 3 Director Karin Litz P. Zerna, in her speech, said that the charter will go down the history books as the first in Central Luzon and one of the fastest as the charter was accomplished in only two months.

"With the creation of the first Citizen's Charter in the region we are not creating an office, but an act or movement. Hopefully with this movement we will be able to bring change and make life easier for Zambaleños," Zerna exclaimed.

Governor Deloso, in a message, explained that the charter is anchored on transparency, and that "the policy of transparency could help guarantee accountability in government."

"Citizen's Charter also provides a corresponding feedback mechanism and uniformity in all government transactions, thus eliminating graft and corruption, red tape, and serves as a venue for complaints and suggestions."

"This will eventually make the citizens part of governance and in sense, belonging in the formulation of public policies," Gov. Deloso added.

He also said that the Provincial Government and all attached government agencies is trying to achieve efficiency in service delivery and explore innovative transparency and accountability in the government's day-to-day operations, hence the drafting of the charter.

"Upang maging matibay ang probinsya at mga mamamayan ng Zambales ay magsimula tayo ng pagbabago sa mga kawani ng gobyerno because we, the public servants, are the amalgam of society."

"Basta may gagawing trabaho wag lilingon sa relo, tapusin muna ang trabaho," the Governor exclaimed.

The Zambales Citizen's Charter Task Force (ZCCTF), headed by Renato A. Uy of the Office of the Provincial Treasurer, meanwhile, opened up a feedback and redress mechanism telephone line and e-mail addresses to allow the sharing of experiences, complaints, comments and suggestions. Feedback/Suggestion boxes shall also be placed in every office to facilitate faster and better delivery of services.

The public is encouraged to fill up complaints form or send feedbacks through e-mail at tfcc_pgzambales@yahoo.com or hr_pgo_zambales@yahoo.com or send text messages at hotline Txt PGZ (0905 546 1683).

You may also address your complaints to the ZCCTF Head or call the Office of the Governor at Telephone number (047) 811 3228 and look for Mr. Rene J. Totol, Executive assistant and member of the Citizen's Charter steering committee. (by Allen Villa - PIA-Zambales)

Troops capture mercenary camp in Zambales

IBA, Zambales -- Government troops fought last Thursday with alleged mercenaries and captured their camp” in Sitio Matalisbong, Guisguis, Sta. Cruz, Zambales owned allegedly by a local mining company.

Police Provincial Director, Senior Supt. Rolando Felix, said that his men also arrested at least ten armed men who were reportedly fully equipped with various high caliber weapons, ammunitions, communication facilities. and other war gadgets during the three-day encounter. which started

There were no reported casualties but Felix said his troops are still tracking down several others who allegedly escaped during the firefight.

Arrested were Ronald P. de Vera, 46, of Bulacan; Diosdado S. Ulep, 44, a former Army staff sargeant and Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija; Daniel Peralta, 53, of Barrio Pattao, Buguey, Cagayan; John Ric Marave, 21, of Infanta, Pangasinan; and Fernando Valdez, 53, of Mabanglit, Cabangan; Ernie D. Bulatao, 40, of Porac, Botolan. Johnny Vidal, 51, an ex-CAFGU of Sta. Cruz; Alfredo Dalaodao, 58, former soldier, of Mabanglit, Cabangan; Julito Domacena, 53, of Porac, Botolan; Josefino C. Balintay, 37, of Loob-Bunga Resettlement Area, Botolan, all in Zambales.

All suspects are reportedly working as security guards under First Line Security and Protection Agency, which is based in Metro-Manila.

Recovered from their possessions were four AK-47 assault rifles; one browning automatic rifle; one M-14 Armalite rifle; five Armscor shotguns; volumes of magazines of different caliber and live ammunition; two Motorola I-Com radios; battery chargers and batteries; flashlights; cell phones and war vests.

Before the raid, Governor Amor D. Deloso sought the assistance of Felix to help serve a court decision ordering a local mining firm A3UNA to leave the mining area in barangay Guisguis, Sta. Cr in favor of one Pablo Pabilona. whose claim to the area was rendered “the rightful owner” by the court. By: Ruben A. Veloria - Journal online

Zambales: Gearing up, cashing in

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Administrator Armand Arreza announced that SBMA has maintained its status as the country's leading investment agency after posting US$1.1 billion in committed investment employing nearly 70,000 workers this year.

"Our new challenge today is to bring investments to the nearby towns of Zambales and Bataan and Olongapo City. This will be easier now after the President issued Executive Order 675," Arreza said.

With the EO 675, according to Arreza, new investors who are looking for bigger land area will be allowed to put up investment to other places near the Subic Bay Freeport and Clark areas.

"We are also preparing a plan for the construction of access roads going to some tourist and investment sites in Zambales. There are also new power plants to be built inside the Freeport zone that will provide lower power rates," he said.

In a similar move, Zambales Governor Amor Deloso has announced that Zambales is gearing towards development as it vows to open major road networks that will connect the province to other economic zones in Northern and Central Luzon.

"There is a need to open new roads to expand the development opportunities of the provinces and maximize its potentials as a new investment site in the region," said Gov. Amor Deloso.

He identified the new economic doors as the Santa Cruz-Mangatarem Road that will connect the northern town of Santa Cruz with the town of Mangatarem in Pangasinan and the Iba-Tarlac Road which will connect the province to Tarlac.

The roads are necessary to open new space for possible economic zones and to shorten travel going in and out of the province to and from Central Luzon, Northern Luzon and Western Luzon areas. 

"The roads will also maximize the use of our Masinloc Port as a major seaport in the area benefiting investors, particularly exporters and importers, from Zambales and Pangasinan," Deloso said.

The governor noted that the Tarlac-Iba Road, which would span to about 60 kilometers when finished, has already a plan that was approved during the administration of former president Ramos.

"The road will boost the potentials of the Masinloc Port which will be constructed under a built-operate-transfer (BOT) scheme by a Canadian business group to the amount of US$5 billion. When finished, Masinloc Port will become a major transshipment port in the region," he said.

Meanwhile, the official said that the Mangatarem-Santa Cruz Road Project is about 82 kilometers and could be finished at the cost of P200 million. The road will shorten travel time going to Pangasinan from Iba, Zambales from six hours to about two hours.

Deloso has also announced that discussions have already been started to study the possibility of putting a 500-hectare industrial estate in the former San Miguel Naval Air Stations in San Antonio Zambales.

The proposed industrial zone will fast tract the many development programs of the province to turn the province into a tourism and light industry destination in the region.

"Roads will bind our resources- land, people and infrastructures. Due to the completion of the SCTEX, space for investment in Bulacan and Tarlac is getting scarce. Subic Freeport soon could not accommodate more factories. But Zambales has vast land space to offer and we have pier, ship repair facilities and a small airport for tourism," Gov. Deloso said. (AMV/PIA-Zambales)

Zambales nickel mine starts

IBA, Zambales -- Authorities confirmed Monday that giant Australian mining firm Rusina Mining N.L is ready to start its $500-million nickel commercial mining.

Gov. Amor Deloso, in a briefing with local officials and business leaders, said Rusina, in partnership with European PLC company and two other local mining entities – D.M Consunji Mining and Fil-Asia Mining companies – will operate in a month or two the 10,000-hectare nickel mine in Acoje, Sta. Cruz town.

Deloso also said a smelting plant is being put up by the firm to complement the mining operation so that only finished products such as nickel blocks would be shipped out of the country.

“Certainly, Rusina and co. will help ease-out the country’s economic gloom as 3,000-5000 workers will be hired for various works during its full operation by 2010,” he said. By: Mamer Bañez - Journal online

Deloso cites impact of DENR order on Zambales mining

IBA, Zambales—An order the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recently issued to improve tax collection in the mining industry would likely have a negative impact in this province, according to Gov. Amor Deloso.

The governor was reiterating his grounds for filing a case against the national government on the DENR order.

According to Deloso, DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2008-20, issued by Secretary Lito Atienza last September 4, would result in the loss of thousands of jobs in Zambales and millions of pesos in mining fees, excise taxes and other local fees and taxes.

Zambales produces chromite, sand and gravel, magnetic sand, nickel, armor rocks, serpentine, sandstone, copper, lahar stone and sand, and red stone.

The DENR chief said in an earlier statement he welcomed the move of Deloso to seek redress before the Court of Appeals and to clarify guidelines for the mineral ore export permit (MOEP) “since this would give us an opportunity to make our position on the issue clearer and enlighten all sectors, particularly the public at large.”

The DENR’s overriding concern “is to make sure that smuggling of mineral resources is addressed effectively” and that all mining companies understand the need to be transparent in terms of operations, Atienza stressed.

Deloso asked the Court of Appeals in a petition to stop the DENR order. DAO 2008-20, which required an MOEP for all mineral exports by large- and small-scale miners, should not be implemented because it is “void, infirm and defective,” the governor said in the petition.

DAO 2008-20 intended to eradicate “undervaluation, misdeclaration and red tape in the exportation of mineral ores, and the improvement of the collection of taxes by the government.”

But the same order called for the processing of the MOEP at the DENR office in Manila, and at least 60 days before the intended date of shipping.

The MOEP is to be required on top of the ore transport permit, which is already required under Republic Act 7942, or the Mining Act of 1995, Deloso said.

In this light, DAO 2008-20 “would definitely work injustice to Zambales, which is rich in mineral resources and where several thousands of residents work in the mining sector,” he added.

Deloso further said DAO 2008-20 is “an unlawful usurpation of legislative power vested by the Constitution with Congress.”

He said Atienza’s order “is an administrative issuance which is not sanctioned by RA 7942.”

RA 7942 specifically requires an OTP for any mined ore to be exported, but the same law contains no provision for an MOEP.

“The act, therefore, of Atienza in issuing DAO 2008-20 is an amendment of RA 7942 because it expands the law,” Deloso said in his pleadings.

“Since there is now a discrepancy between the statute RA 7942 and an administrative issuance [DAO 2008-20], then the statute prevails because the administrative issuance cannot amend an act of Congress,” Deloso concluded.

Atienza, however, said his agency has the power under the Constitution to protect the country’s environment and natural resources.

“The DENR could not stand idly by while our mineral resources become the target of smugglers who, of course, have enough money to buy all the protection they need to evade the law,” Atienza said in a statement released by the DENR.

“Our duty to protect our mineral resources is stated very clearly in the Constitution, contrary to what Governor Deloso claims,” he added.

Regarding the 60-day period to process the MOEP to which Deloso objected, Atienza said neither the Mines and Geosciences Bureau nor his office has received any complaint about this.

He added that the MOEP and its implementing guidelines have the full support of the Chamber of Mines, the main association of mining companies in the country.Written by Henry Empeño- business Mirror