marinduque rising

PBB's The Great Marinduque Adventure!

2012-02-10T11:09:00.001+08:00

Many Marinduquenos were glued to their seats last night watching the first part of Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited Season 4's special feature with the housemates, "The Great Marinduque Adventure".

Kuya: "Anong alam mo tungkol sa Marinduque?" (What do you know about Marinduque?)

Slater: "Wala po talaga Kuya, zero po!" (Nothing really, Brother, zero!)

With that, will Slater and Biggel travelling via Balanacan Port, and Divine with Paco travelling via Cawit Port, succeed in their separate Marinduque missions? Slater and Biggel appear to have easily lost their way from Balanacan to Boac Market to buy fish for breakfast, salt and matches. Abangan uli mamaya sa primetime, 9:30 pm sa ABS-CBN Channel 2. (Last night, "The Great Marinduque Adventure" was Twitter trending topic no. 2.)

PBB teaser on the extraordinary trip, "The Great Marinduque Adventure":

Joseph Biggel's Fan Pages

2012-02-09T14:52:00.002+08:00

Joseph Biggel

http://josephbiggel.weebly.com

It appears that among the stars of PBB Unlimited Season 4 edition, Joseph Biggel of Marinduque has inspired the creation of the most number of fan sites administered by various supporters from within and outside the country. The above website offers easier access to regularly updated Biggel fb pages that chronicle his activities.

Marinduque is Trending Topic this Time

2012-02-09T14:02:00.002+08:00

#Marinduque instantly became trending topic the other night after Big Brother of PBB Unlimited Season 4 made an announcement that housemate Joseph Biggel, better known as "Biggel" would be given the chance to visit his island-province. Biggel, together with Cebu housemate Slater Young were blindfolded right then and there and were spirited out of the PBB house to a waiting van, off to Dalahican Port in Lucena City sailing on via a roro-vessel to Balanacan Port in Mogpog, Marinduque.

There they awaited written instructions on what they were tasked to do in the island of Marinduque. Incidentally, we have blogged about the excitement of CNN International, The Western Australian and Elle Canada about this island called Marinduque in the Philippines. Pick up names like "next travel hotspot", "next-gen tourist hotspot", "one of world's top islands", etc. were written to describe this island-province.

In a meeting with then Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim sometime last year, Congressman Velasco stressed the need to improve the local airport facilities, particularly the runway, to really attract more tourists. Maybe the "it's more fun in the Philippines" new Big Boss would recognize that "its' more fun and cheaper to promote the Philippines by first recognizing the island that the outside world is excited to watch"!

To refresh our memories, am reposting this blog, "ONE OF WORLD'S TOP ISLANDS" (posted here May 4, 2011):

In March 2010, Christina Pfeiffer, as guest of the Department of Tourism writing for Escape (Australia) asked: “Is Marinduque Island the next travel hotspot?” There are no sleek nightclubs, bars or tacky souvenir shops here, she said, yet even Marinduque island is only 170km away from Manila “it’s a world away from the traffic, skyscrapers and frenetic pace of the big city”. Pfeiffer wrote that this island is such “a pristine natural treasure trove of sandy beaches, diving sites, caves, hot springs and waterfalls” and that “the few local resorts on the island are simple and inexpensive”.

...children play with carefree abandon

She wrote of the Moriones festival, the Gothic Boac Church, her visits to a butterfly farm, a local museum, and of inter-actions with the local people who look happy, she said. “The streets are clean, homes are neat and children play with carefree abandon.” Buenavista “lives up to its name with stunning ocean views, sandy beaches and swaying palms” was how she described that small town.

Of Bellarocca she also wrote thus: “Bellarocca's setting is stunningly Mediterranean. White-washed buildings are a stark contrast to green Mt Malindig and the turquoise ocean. Facilities include a nine-hole golf course, cigar room, gym and fitness centre, swimming pools and a spa. Rooms are luxurious and furnished with amenities such as L'Occitane and Aveda cosmetics, plasma television sets and iPod docks.” Read

It should be noted that unlike the seclusion of guests applied by an earlier resort that once stood where it sits now, Bellarocca has decidedly partnered with local government units so that visitors are able to also sample the many wonderful things that mainland Marinduque has to offer. The 6-star resort has encouraged the development of eco-tourism sites with potentials to generate livelihood as part of its social responsibility program. Resort visitors therefore who enjoy the luxury and amenities offered there have the option to see for themselves the many cultural and tourism attractions found in this island-province. Read

In April 2010, now Senator Ferdinand Marcos, Jr visiting the Moriones festival with his family made a statement that Marinduque should be promoted as a major tourism destination because of its vast resources and natural beauty. “Marinduque is known worldwide for its colorful Moriones Festival and that’s good, but it has so much more to offer in terms of world-class attractions and facilities that we must and will capitalize on to boost tourism, spur economic activities, and uplift the quality of lives of Marinduquenos,”, he said. (In the middle of rehearsals for a passion play, this blogger was tasked to coordinate his visits to the municipalities. Marcos and family did not have the opportunity to visit Bellarocca then). Read

By May 2010, CNN International was saying that Marinduque could very well be “the next tourist hotspot in Asia”, together with Phu Quoc in Vietnam, Hainan Island in China and the Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam where billion dollar investments for resorts were being funneled by their governments and developers.

CNN reported: "For years, Marinduque has been under the foreign tripper's radar, but not for long, if politicos and developers have their way. The laid-back island-province is now being touted as the Philippines’ next holiday haven, with the Bellarocca luxury resort set up last year, and new domestic flights…”

It also cited that Luzon officials are also on a crusade to raise the area’s public profile, and quoted Senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. who said that “once the Marinduque air and sea ports are modernized, larger volume of local and foreign tourists can be lured to visit its little-known but awesome white sand beaches.”

In June 2010, CNN followed up its Marinduque sojourn with “25 killer things to do this summer”. That’s for people who look to the beach for some relief from the heat during vacation. No. 12 is its recommendation to “visit one of Asia’s next gen tourist hotspots”, citing Marinduque in the Philippines and the three other places in Vietnam and China, which are “up and coming tourist hotspots…amazing summer destinations, each for unique reasons.”Read

TWIST AND SHOUT

On October 10, 2010, however, was published in The Philippine Star an article that gallantly trumpeted the following:

“CNN says the hottest Asian tourism spot is in Marinduque” by Christine S. Dayrit . This entire lengthy article was devoted not to Marinduque but to Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa. Waxing poetic: “The ethereal paradise of Bellarocca, an ultra-luxuriousresort, is sanctioned by God since it takes its role in environmental stewardship not just seriously but very seriously. Like a beautiful enigmatic woman, the resort charms and beguiles discriminating travelers with a bespoke experience of soaking in nature’s jewels as you immerse yourself in a trip of a lifetime that doesn’t cost the earth”, it said.

There’s no doubt about it, the unfortunate distortion of what CNN reported is much too clear. The Dayrit article could have been closer to the truth if it bannered that “the hottest Asian tourism spot is in the Philippines”.

Said article went on to say: “As if that wasn’t enough, even CNN International has given Bellarocca a thumbs up for being the hottest New Generation Asia tourist hotspot. There is a Bedouin saying that fosters hospitality to the highest degree: “Each guest is a guest of God.” With this philosophy in mind, Bellarocca delivers only the most indefatigable degree of loving kindness.” Hmmm.

And as if that wasn’t enough, the same article appeared elsewhere, more deliberate, this time in its pronouncement: “CNN says Marinduque resort, hottest Asian tourism spot”. Read

Sicily was on top, followed by Marinduque

10 TOP ISLANDS

By January 2011, The Western Australian’s John Borthwick chose 10 of the world’s best islands where Marinduque landed in the No. 2 position. These islands, in chronological order are: Sicily (Italy), Marinduque (Philippines), Reunion (Indian Ocean), Manihi (French Polynesia), Maldives, Phu Quoc (Vietnam), Koh Lanta (Thailand), Zanzibar (Tanzania) and Santorini (Greece).

Borthwick’s exact description of Marinduque:

“Little Marinduque, a short flight south of Manila, is one of the loveliest islands in the Philippines. It's a quiet place of waterfalls, villages, jungles, a butterfly farm and old Spanish churches - in short, authentic, regional Philippines.
“The island is most famous for its annual Moriones Festival held each April, featuring actors dressed as Roman soldiers at Christ's Crucifixion.
“Just off Marinduque's southern tip is a surprising new resort, Bellarocca, whose Mediterranean-style whitewashed walls are framed by the vivid blue Sibuan Sea. Luxurious suites and private pools just add to the romance.”

Elle Canada’s approach was different. It identified top islands by continent or island groups, stating the “then” and “now” islands. First part of Elle’s choices entitled “Travel destinations: The new hot spots” listed the “now” islands as Punta del Este for South America, Bonaire for Carribean, MARINDUQUE FOR ASIA, and Hvar for Europe. Elle echoed Pfeiffer “Asia: Then, Phuket; Now, Marinduque -There are no Starbucks on this volcanic Philippine island—life in Marinduque calls for a calmer pace. (Think white-sand beaches and sulphuric hot springs.) Its sole concession to luxe tourism is the Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa, which sprawls over its own island…”

Even a Bellarocca manager was apparently incredulous seeing that list, that he posted in the Elle comments page thus: “Thank you for including/rating Marinduque in the new travel hot spots. I work for Bellarocca and seeing it here is somewhat surreal, but definitely pleasant…”

Well said.

The upset part is that the Dayrit article that claimed it's the resort and not the island found its way into the Department of Tourism website as a featured article. Read

But these facts must be stated, put on record, considering that up to three years ago the spark of an idea that Marinduque Island could ever get noticed in the world tourism and travel map is unimaginable. But the world has changed, and it keeps getting smaller everyday as we know it today.

Through creative ways one’s imagination could get caught in an idea, then others could find themselves drawn to that same idea until it finds magical manifestation somewhere, somehow… up until someone comes along from elsewhere to blow it into smithereens for whatever reason.

But, blowing up a good thing really, really is the easiest thing to do. And that isn’t art.

Street-dancing on Buenavista's Feast Day

2012-01-19T18:09:00.000+08:00

Today's the Feast Day of Sto. Nino in Buenavista, Marinduque. Buenavista is the smallest of Marinduque's six towns, located on the southwestern portion of this island-province. Inhabitants of this town speak Marinduque Tagalog with a blend of Masbate and Romblon dialectic influences. Some of those living in the coastal areas trace their roots to Banton island in Romblon.

The 1,157 meter Malindig Volcano serves as its backdrop. 'Malindig' where 'Marinduque' was derived from means steep and elegant. This year, the municipal government, in cooperation with the Department of Education and all the barangays decided to hold a street-dancing festival inspired by the many Sto. Nino festivals staged throughout the country, particularly those in the Visayan region, like Sinulog and Dinagyang festivals.

Tourist arrivals and tourism interest in this picturesque and quiet town has increased with the opening of Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa, a luxury resort in what was once known as Elefante Island.

This street-dancing festival was participated in by costumed grade school students from the town's 15 barangays and public high schools who danced in the heat to the rhythm of all types of drums. It was not intended to be a water-dousing festival, this one, but parents, teachers and plain watchers took turns dousing and sprinkling water on the dancers as a remedy for the soaring mid-day solar heat.

Biggel's home province of Marinduque

2012-01-17T15:25:00.000+08:00

Biggel photo: LBM Group

It is the home province of one of the most publicized Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) housemates these days, (landing at least four times as trending topic in Worldwide Trends), where he was raised by his poor grandparents - Joseph Biggel, Marinduque’s ‘promdihirang tisoy’. Few people know that Marinduque is also really the geodetic center of the Philippines.

Atop a mountain near Balanacan Port is a marker appropriately marked as Station Balanacan, the origin of Luzon Datum of 1911. It is the mother of all datums in the country.

Also, the roots of various expressions of Tagalog culture, traditions, indigenous arts, including the language that originated here and has evolved into today's modern national forms, could still be clearly seen, heard and learned in Marinduque - yes, Biggel speaks that language throughout his stay at the famous PBB house.

In its long and colorful history, this island-province measuring only 959 sq.km. became part of Batangas, Mindoro, and Tayabas (now Quezon). By the 1920s an act separating Marinduque from Tayabas laid the basis for the island-province's existence as a separate province, celebrated February 21st - off and on.

Marinduque is widely known for the colorful Lentenpageant, Moriones Festival, and for the fierce patriotism displayed by therevolutionary soldiers during the Philippine-American War in the Battle ofPulang Lupa and Battle of Paye, both commemorated annually, for sure.

Day Two of Marinduque Development Partnership Forum

2012-01-13T13:54:00.000+08:00

On the second day of the Norwegian Mission-organized development partnership forum in Marinduque, ‘partnership’ in the context of the development work the NMA undertakes was defined. It is based on active and substantial participation of their chosen communities in the NMA programs – through community-based orgs (CBOs) - from conceptualization to implementation, to the extent that the communities feel strongly that they own these programs and must see their fruition.

For any identified programs, the Mission sees to it that a staff or unit is assigned the task of coordinating such programs with its public and private sector partners until the appropriate technical support and/or funding, as the case may be, are obtained.

Community-based organizations established under the sponsorship of NMA in the municipality of Buenavista are as follows: Sama-sama sa Ikauunlad ng Ating Pamumuhay (SIKAP), Aktibong Nakikilahok sa Ikauunlad ng Brgy. Bagacay (ANIB), Pagkakaisa sa Kaunlaran ng Yook (PAKAY), Bagtingon Angat Kaunlaran Pagkaisahan (BAKAP), Samahan ng Magsasaka ng Tungib (SamaMagsasaka), Samahan ng Magsasaka ng Pinagbulugan (SAMAPI) and a new core group in Brgy. Caigangan.

Agriculture and livestock programs for the communities.

Coco- based processing (coco-sugar, coco-vinegar, etc.)

Construction of school buildings.

In Torrijos, there’s Sulong Malibago sa Kaunlaran (SUMAKA), Pagkakaisa Tungo sa Pag-unlad ng Dampulan (PAGTUPAD ), Samahan ng Pagkakaisa sa Pag-unlad ng Payanas (SP3), Samahan ng Makawayan Tungo sa Kaunlaran at Pagkakaisa (SAMAKAP), Samahan i-angat Kaunlaran ng Talawan (SiKAT), and a core group in Brgy. Buangan.

Today's forum will end in a covenant of partnership among all of NMA's partners in development.

Norwegian Mission holds Marinduque Development Partners Forum

2012-01-12T15:10:00.000+08:00

The Norwegian Mission Alliance introduced its ‘diaconal’ mission in Marinduque in 2007. That’s a role in the Christian Church generally associated with service to others to pursue a vision. The said NGO initially identified one barangay in the entire province that they considered the poorest – Yook in Buenavista. Certain sectors of the local community were vocal in their skepticism then that the NMA will ever get anywhere in its attempt to improve the lives of the un-empowered.

“Many so-called NGO’s and even church organizations have made their presence in those poor communities for years, spending millions of pesos in health-related and livelihood projects but all that help did not make any difference in the people’s lives”, one religious leader openly stated in the introductory meeting organized by the NMA then.

But the unique NMA approach involved the creation of Participatory Action Research Teams in the community they want to support composed of community members with the potential to facilitate interventions and capacity to draw community support. Members were chosen from a cross-section of farmers, fisherfolks, women and youth and were trained by the Mission’s development team.

The NMA has since initiated development partnerships with other community-based orgs, with the local and national government agencies and the private sector, and today it has undeniably made headways in the identified barangays, the number of which also gradually increased. From barangay Yook, NMA expanded its work to other barangays in Buenavista town such as, Tungib-Lipata, Bicas-Bicas, Bagacay, Bagtingon, Caigangan and Libas – eventually moving on to the Torrijos barangays of Malibago, Talawan, Makawayan, Dampulan, Payanas and Buangan, to address problems that the said communities have themselves identified as those needing NMA intervention.

NMA has made headways in these communities in the area ofhealth and nutrition, education and protection of children and livelihoodprograms. Some poor communities outside Buenavista and Torrijos eventually approachedNMA for inclusion in the program. To explore possibilities of furtherstrengthening partnerships with local stakeholders and partners, the Missionhas decided to hold a Marinduque Development Partners Forum from January 12-13,2012 at the 2^nd Floor of DJ Plaza, Gasan. The forum will serve asvenue for the presentation, discussion and assessment of previous developmentpartnership initiated by the NMA and for strengthening of such partnership andcollaboration.

Plain Biggel

2012-01-06T17:12:00.001+08:00

Hello Philippines! Hello World! Ako si Biggel!

#3 in Worldwide Trends, #1 in Philippine Trends & #4 in Yahoo TrendsWatch Biggel's dramatic moment with the PBB housemates.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012!

2011-12-31T23:14:00.001+08:00

Biggel's still in Worldwide Trends

2011-12-23T16:55:00.001+08:00

Three-four days after Biggel landed among trending topics worldwide, he's still there. This one's from last night's 'Worldwide Trends'.Curiously the topics have changed yet Biggel remained. As PBB host Toni Gonzaga is wont to ask: "What eez the meaning of theeze?"

Biggel (sitting third from left) is shown here with his co-housemates in the most famous house in the country, the Pinoy Big Brother house.

Marinduque's Biggel is trending topic Worldwide (again)!!

2011-12-21T07:54:00.000+08:00

‎@OfficialPBB4 BIGGEL IS TRENDING TOPIC WORLDWIDE at #7 last night!

pic.twitter.com/DFqo4IXYCongratulations!(info sent by @IAdelaCruz and Melisa Van Dorf)

Wishing 'LAV' a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

2011-12-19T15:01:00.001+08:00

Well-wishers and supporters of Congressman Lord Allan Velasco trooped to his beach house address in Poctoy, Torrijos for an early Christmas get-together. An all-smiling Velasco extended his warm thanks to those who came, stating that his district offices expect more increase in the number of educational assistance recipients now totaling about 4,000 under the Velasco Achievers program.

The same thing goes with financial assistance to medical patients, burial and transportation for indigents. He said that assistance being given by his office to patients who had to be transported for special treatment in hospitals outside the province will also be further strengthened with additional funds.

The aggressive road infrastructure projects going on in all the six municipalities of Marinduque, he said, are manifestations of his battle-cry for ‘pagbabago’ for these are long overdue projects, in the same manner that barangay roads, multi-purpose buildings and waterworks projects are now being undertaken in areas prioritized at the start of his watch as representative to Congress of the Lone District of Marinduque.

Velasco also mentioned in his brief speech that his controversial affirmative vote in the lower chamber of the Philippine congress for impeachment proceedings against Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona was not only due to the fact that in his view, the grounds for impeachment were present, but most importantly, it was also a representative vote by his constituents for the continued forward thrust of the province of Marinduque on the matter of economic development.

Velasco was joined in by his congressional staff, Atty. Montano Nazario, Chief of Staff, Erick Abad, Chief of Staff for Marinduque Affairs, Johann Frantz Rivera, Juvilee Anne Ravanera, Arnold Isorena and the local staff from Velasco's district offices in Boac and Sta. Cruz.

Some photo-ops...

Overheard during the Christmas gathering from emcees Bernard Revilla and Primo Pamintuan: Bernard: Alam ba ninyo kung ano ang ibig sabihin ng L-A-V?Mga Tao: Lord Allan Velasco!Primo: Tama po. Pero alam ba ninyo kung ano talaga ang ibig sabihin ng L-A-V?Mga Tao: Lalawigan Aasenso kay Velasco!Primo: Ay alam pala!

Marinduque's Biggel composes a winning Christmas Song for PBB Team High Voltage

2011-12-19T11:10:00.005+08:00

Video showing Joseph Biggel teaching his Christmas song to fellow housemates.

As Pinoy Big Brother 'head of housemates' last week, the task of choosing Christmas carols that paying fans would request his team High Voltage to sing fell on his lap. That included having to come up with an original Christmas song. The 'promdi' from Marinduque, Joseph Emil Biggel rose to the occasion and came up - under extreme pressure - with "Tayo ang Pasko" that he taught his co-housemates.

In three days, the Tayo ng Pasko MTV created by Team High Voltage (THV) registered over 55,000 likes and was the most requested Christmas Song by fans who flocked to the PBB house. At the end of the caroling session THV collected more than Php 71,000 that goes to charity.

A PBB mini-concert for charity is currently being organized for victims of recent typhoon, Sendong that struck southern Philippines.The Official "Tayo ng Pasko" MTV by Team High Voltage:...and with songwriter Jimmy Antiporda, singer Yeng Constantino and composer Maestro Ryan Cayabyab serving as the panel of judges, their decision was unanimous. The winner of the original Christmas carol weekly task was... "Tayo ang Pasko" by Team High Voltage that also won the MTV competition. Congratulations THV!

How's PBB housemate Joseph Biggel doing?

2011-12-14T13:30:00.008+08:00

Goings on at the Pinoy Big Brother house.

Marinduque's PBB housemate continues to sing about his life in Marinduque that he calls "munting paraiso", little paradise. This week he enjoys immunity from being nominated for eviction after being named Head of Housemates (HOH) following a task.

Photos in this spread show a Joseph Biggel sleeping with his brand new shoes beside him (courtesy of Converse), Biggel with the immunity medalion, a poster from love interest Tin's mother titled "Voltage", a banner from an international fan club out to support him and love interest, Tin Patrimonio, and a hilarious video, "Reindeer Biggel" showing him being ridden by housemate Tin and one named Echo.

Sandcastles in Poctoy beach

2011-12-13T14:19:00.005+08:00

You can’t think of building sandcastles unless the sand is wet and so you need a lot of water to build something like this in Poctoy white sand beach.

For once, the rainshower that pours now and then this December season might give you a good excuse to stay out drenched and play with sand and water. Then you might find yourself shaping and carving the damp sand in no time at all - pounding it, pounding it till you get a glimpse of what you have in mind.

When evening comes and you are still at it, you’d want to put candles all over your sandcastle to bring romance and delight to your spur of the moment creation - before the stray dogs or cats destroy it. Like humans do if you are not looking.

Colors of Bila-Bila Festival 2011 in Boac

2011-12-12T11:59:00.012+08:00

A beaming Mayor Roberto M. Madla waves his hand to the crowd atop the municipal government float bedecked with flowers.

Boac's answer to the street-dancing festival craze as a way to attract tourists and spur more business growth in this capital town of Marinduque, is the "Bila-Bila Festival". Successfully staged for the second time under the stewardship of Mayor Roberto M. Madla, the 8th December festival was participated in by various contingents from the Ilaya, Seaside, Riverside and Poblacion districts.

The Mogpog Brass Band with some 40 members under bandmaster Chino Leyco joined the festival playing "We Are the World", "I Wanna Hold Your Hand", "Jingle Bell Rock" and others.

"Bila-Bila Festival" photos below courtesy of Toby Jamilla Photography, official photographer of "Bila-Bila Festival 2011".

Background on the origin of the Bila-Bila Festival could be found here.

Switching on Sta. Cruz sitios

2011-12-09T16:24:00.001+08:00

Congressman Lord Allan Velasco and Sta. Cruz Mayor Percival Morales together with MARELCO officials led by board president, Beethoven Arevalo are expected to attend the official switch-on ceremony for the line extension of Sitio Ilaya in Brgy. Masalukot and Sitio Bagumbungan in Brgy. San Isidro, all in Sta. Cruz.

Implementation of this project in all 30 sitios in Marinduque's six towns identified under the national government's electrification and barangay line enhancement program are expected to be completed before the end of December this year.

The program is expected to help bring jobs to rural areas and, for the residents, access to basic convenience.

Sitio Bagumbungan in San Isidro is the site of San Isidro Caves, one of Sta. Cruz town's increasingly popular tourist destinations.

389th Founding Anniversary of Boac today

2011-12-08T10:46:00.011+08:00

The capital town of Boac celebrates its 389th Founding Anniversary today, December 8th., the Fest of the Immaculate Conception. Boac derived its name from “biak”, divided or separated from end to end, referring to the river running from the eastern hinterland down to the sea on the western side of town.

Boac River

Boac River gained international attention in 1996, when a badly sealed drainage tunnel collapsed and spewed millions of tons of mine tailings into the 26-kilometer long river.

The tunnel has been used to drain acidic water from Marcopper Mining’s Tapian pit since the early 1970s when fishkills in the river also started. The river appears to have naturally resuscitated itself when after only five years, small fishes began to show and the water cleared that those living in the river valleys used it for washing their clothes and bathing.

The bulk of the tailings are within the dredge channel at the north and south estuaries. But throughout the stretch of the river, a huge amount of tailings remain under water or are covered by soil erosion and sedimentation that, authorities claim, secure the tailings from oxidation and acidity of the river.

Our Lady of Biglang Awa

A relative awareness of a traditional story that has survived to this day, told of how Moro pirates in the olden days, one gloomy day, invaded the town of Boac passing through the mouth of the river in Laylay.

The townspeople took refuge in the cathedral fortress and prayed, when all at once, a mysterious Lady in white appeared with arms outstretched atop the fortress wall facing the river. With fear and trembling the pirates fled, saving the people in that episode which inspired the creation of a new name, “Biglang Awa” for the revered Lady in white.

The 389th Founding Anniversary of Boac showcases during the week that started on December 1st, various religious, cultural and sports activities that culminates in today’s grand “Bila-Bila Festival and Street Dancing Competition”. This butterfly-inspired festival is participated in by cluster contingents from Boac’s 61 barangays.

The executive committee is headed by Boac Mayor Roberto M. Madla with Vice-Mayor Dante J. Marquez and Dr. Aquilina Rivas, as co-chairs, and officials of the Sangguniang Bayan ng Boac as members.

They are Councilors Theresa P. Caballes, Sonny L. Paglinawan, Luisito M. Majaba, Luisito S. Laylay, Robert E. Opis, Benildo L. Largado, Avelino L. Chi, Ma. Herietha M. Gayutin, Ferdinand L. Mameng and Gelacio Raphael Mascarenas.

Work and fun in Buenavista

2011-12-07T14:29:00.009+08:00

Boys just love to fish and swim. Fishermen's boys from Buenavista enjoy diving off a pangulong, fishing vessel, into the waters. It is common for boys living in the coastal areas to join their fathers during the wee hours to catch fish.

Congressman Lord Allan Velasco recently joined the town's runners in a 5-kilometer "Takbo sa Pag-asenso" fun run from Brgy. Daykitin to the town center, and distributed trophies and cash prizes to the winners.

The fun run was organized by Mayor Russel Madrigal of Buenavista in cooperation with the office of the Congresssman.

Meanwhile, workers from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) are busy with the rehabilitation of the Buenavista Covered Court, the center of cultural, political, educational and sports activities in this town.

Buenavista hosts the 6-star resort, Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa, and local attractions like Mt. Malindig, Marinduque Hot Spring Resort, Malbog Sulfuric Hot Spring and Bulusukan Falls in Bagtingon.

The Buenavista Covered Court project is funded by Cong. Velasco's Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF).

Biggel's Banot and his Blue Marlin story

2011-12-06T15:26:00.005+08:00

PBB housemate, Joseph Emil Biggel is from Banot, a coastal barangay in Gasan, one of the town's major fishing villages. Banot had 895 residents by the end of 2007.

In December 2009, the same "Biggel" who was a fresh graduate of Bognuyan National High School (students from said school were selected by this blogger for the "Viva Marinduque" theater project but Biggel was only interested in basketball then), was the source of my news regarding a big fish caught in the waters of Gasan. He produced photos of the fish (appropriately credited to him), with a friend's cellphone camera.

My blogpost dated Dec. 29, 2009, and said Biggel's photos are reproduced here:

Two fishermen named 'Inshot' and Edwin from the fishing village of Banot in Gasan caused quite a stir when they anchored their outrigger dragging this huge silvery-white fish, Malasugui, caught near the Tres Reyes Islands off Gasan. This Blue Marlin is said to have weighed a hundred kilos and measured about nine feet long. The long spear-shaped upper jaw of this big fish was cut off to be preserved by the catchers as anting-anting, charm against asuangs.

Sold at one hundred fifty pesos per kilo the families of the two fishermen met the holiday season with faces beaming, gratified for their Christmas wishes granted.

Photos by Joseph Emil Biggel.

Malindig's Moods

2011-12-06T09:24:00.009+08:00

On a clear day when you can see forever Mt. Malindig flaunts its bluish hue and would seem content just watching the affairs of her busy subjects below.

This potentially active volcano, the mother of all mountains on the island, creates a panorama reaching southern Luzon up to the Bicol Peninsula, Mindoro and Verde Island, the Romblon islands and Burias. Its peak is a mossy forest with a diversity of life forms.

One could just watch it from the beach in Poctoy being slowly surrounded by the darkness of the night - until mysterious lights appear just below it or bluish lights appear to soar up from behind it as some witnesses claim.

Photos 1-3 courtesy of Toper Matienzo of Torrijos. Last photo by Lovebus en.wikipedia.

At times it would seem to blind you with a golden hue, bringing to mind the numerous tales of enormous, hidden treasures being guarded there by spirits of the underworld the locals are only too familiar with.

Diving at Gaspar Is.

2011-12-02T13:17:00.011+08:00

Gaspar is the most accessible of the Tres Reyes Islands just off the coast of Gasan and ranks among the most dived site on the island.

Photos shown here of Congressman Lord Allan Velasco's diving sojourn on this remarkable island, also site of the only underwater excavation in Marinduque.

A Chinese junk sank here that carried stoneware jars and covers, porcelain plates, dishes, saucers and bowls that dated back to the Ming dynasty. Stoneware jars recovered with relief dragon designs were similar to finds unearthed in some of Marinduque's caves.

Velasco is seen here examining marine life in the area. This area is within the Verde Island Passage Marine Corrdor, a busy sea lane that covers portions of the coastal waters of Batangas, the Mindoro provinces, Romblon and Marinduque.

Within this center of marine biodiversity, the largest concentration of marine life in the world has been identified between Batangas and Mindoro.

Map of Verde Island Passage Marine Corridor

Remembering Bonifacio: The spirit of Hermenegildo Flores isn't far behind

2011-11-30T08:23:00.001+08:00

"Andres Bonifacio" by Raymond C. Go of Boac, Marinduque was Grand Prize Winner of the Bonifacio Centennial Art Competition (1997). It hangs on display at the Bonifacio Trial House in Maragondon, Cavite.

The Tagalog poet Hermenegildo Flores who spent the last years of his life as the leader of the revolutionary struggle in Marinduque during the Filipino-Spanish War wrote the poem, “Hibik ng Filipinas sa Inang Espana”. The said stirring poem elicited a poetic response from Marcelo H. del Pilar (“Sagot ng Espanya sa Hibik ng Pilipinas”), and eventually from Andres Bonifacio (“Katapusang Hibik ng Pilipinas”).

The final Bonifacio poem of this historic poetic triad has been described as “the climactic moment to the history of Tagalog poetry during the 19th century” (Mabangio).

Flores led the first direct assault on the Spanish quarters at Casa Real of Sta. Cruz, Marinduque on March 4, 1897. He was incarcerated at the Casa Real in Boac and executed as a prisoner of war on Oct. 10, 1897. Five months later to the day, Bonifacio, whose 148th birth anniversary we mark today, a Philippine national holiday, was executed at Aguinaldo's hands in the mountains of Maragondon, Cavite.

Bonifacio Trial House in Maragondon, Cavite

The Last Appeal of the Philippines
(A translation of Andres Bonifacio’s poem, “Katapusang Hibik ng Pilipinas”. Trans. Teodoro A. Agoncillo and S.V. Epistola)

Mother, in the east is now risen
the sun of the Filipinos' anger
that for three centuries we suppressed
in the sea of suffering and poverty.

We, your children, had nothing to shore up
against the terrible storm of suffering,
the Philippines has but one heart,
and you are no longer our Mother.

Other mothers cannot compare with you:
your children's comfort are poverty and sorrows,
when they, in appealing to you, prostrate themselves,
your proffered balm is exceedingly painful.

The Filipinos are bound tightly,
they but moan when kicked, boxed, and hit with the butt of of the gun,
they are tortured with electric wires, hung like an animal,
is this, Mother, your love?

You order them imprisoned and thrown into the sea,
to be shot, poisoned to eradicate us,
to us Filipinos is this the decision
of a Mother affectionate to her vassals?

We suffered all this even unto death,
we are almost dead yet you don't stop your punishment,
so that when you throw us into our graves,
our bones are broken, our flesh smashed.

The Philippines has not received any legacy
of comfort from the Mother, nothing but sufferings;
our suffering continues, patents abound,
new charges and imposts are made.

Various ways of cheating us are devised
at the same time compelling us to give in,
we pay for illumination,
although we do not see even one light.

The land and the house we live in,
the field and farm so wide,
and so also the trees and plants --
to the Spanish priest we pay taxes.

Aside from this, the rest
need not be recited, O Mother Spain,
we follow all this to the last breath,
still, the Filipinos are considered bad.

You, O negligent and malevolent Mother,
we are no longer yours whatever happens,
prepare, then, Mother, the grave
where many dead bodies will find rest.

In the world today will explode
guns and cannons like lightning,
the terrible storm of blood that will flow
from their bullets in the struggle.

It is no longer necessary that Spain be pitied
by the Filipinos, O traitorous Mother,
it is our glory to die,
it is your glory if you defeat us.

The Philippines bids you farewell, Mother,
Mother, farewell, this one who is suffering,
farewell, farewell, pitiless Mother,
farewell now, the last appeal.

"Andres Bonifacio" by Carlos Botong Francisco

Poctoy beach stop

2011-11-29T12:22:00.003+08:00

Bikers view Mt. Malindig from the Poctoy white sand beach in Torrijos.

All of Marinduque's towns are linked by a 119-km circumferential road. Some who visit the island with mountain bikes in tow actually enjoy the experience of biking around and interact with the friendly people during stops.

Of Poctoy Beach, Pinoy Boy Journal blogger writes thus: "If you ask me about my thoughts, i couldn't point out why this place is unique. Its somewhere in between knowing that Torrijos is a poor man's beach but blessed with the whitest, clearest waters and knowing the people here are the nicest i've met anywhere in the Philippines.

"Besides the occasional brown outs and unlit pathways, this place has a charm that's hard to explain. Up until now, this particular stop seems so unforgettable to me. I have no idea why.."

Cong. Velasco fun dives at Gaspar Is.

2011-11-28T13:39:00.005+08:00

Cong. Lord Allan Velasco takes time out from his busy schedule to fun dive at Gaspar Island in Gasan.

Velasco and fellow divers set foot on Gaspar Island.

This excellent divesite, one of Velasco's favorites, offers this underwater sight. In between Gaspar and the mainland, a sunken Chinese commercial junk was the subject of the only underwater excavation undertaken in Marinduque.

Recovered here once by a joint team of National Museum and MAUI, a foreign salvage group, were numerous Ming dynasty porcelain plates, jars, skillets and others.

Infra projects in Buenavista

2011-11-28T12:55:00.020+08:00

CONG. VELASCO'S PDAF

Based on income classification for municipalities in the Philippines, Buenavista the smallest Marinduque town south of this island-province is a 4th class municipality. The luxury resort Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa, one of top resort destinations in the country is located here, and is slowly but surely contributing to the town’s tourism development.

Infrastructure development in this town being implemented vigorously by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Marinduque district engineering office for boosting tourism is underway.

Recently completed and/or ongoing projects are the asphalt overlaying of the Daykitin portion of the circumferential road, concrete reblocking of the Poblacion section of the same road, the reconstruction of the Bancoro-Daikitin section of the circumferential road and the Tigwi-Dampulaan-Lipat-Yook road.

The last mentioned road leads to the Bellarocca resort and traverses the picturesque but less traveled southern coast to northeastward through Torrijos.

Repair of revetment walls are also being undertaken in the Timbo-Sihi area and Bagtingon while repair of slips and slope protection have been completed in the Sihi-Malbog and Malibago areas.

These infrastructure projects for Buenavista are funded through Cong. Lord Allan Velasco’s priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) and regular DPWH maintenance and operating expenses.

Potions of farm-to-market roads have been concreted in Bicas-Bicas, Bagacay, Daykitin while improvements done in farm-to-market roads in Bagtingon, Bagacay, Bicas-Bicas, Caigangan, Daykitin, Libas, Lipata, Malbog, Sihi, Timbo and Yook.

Repair of multi-purpose buildings (MPB) have been also undertaken by the DPWH in Libas. Construction of the Buenavista Water System in Poblacion, Buenavista that includes the construction of a new pumphouse and water tank, installation of submersible pump, pipelines and fittings have, likewise, been undertaken.

Shown in photos top to bottom:
MCR Malbog Section
MCR Poblacion Section
MCR Malbog Section
MCR Daykitin Section
MCR Daykitin Section
MCR Daykitin Section
MCR Yook Section
Revetment walls Timbo Sihi
Revetment walls Timbo-Sihi
Revetment walls Timbo-Sihi
Revetment walls Bagtingon
Revetment walls Bagtingon
Water system Buenavista
Water system Buenavista

Maniwaya peace and freedom

2011-11-25T14:50:00.009+08:00

There’s no running water there yet. It is common for residents to travel via motorized bancas to Gen. Luna, Quezon for fetching drinking water and domestic use. A few wells exist but rainwater collection systems for other uses are found in most houses. People raise chicken and pigs for their own consumption, grow vegetables, and catch fish.
Many parts of this island of powdery white sand beach are virtually deserted. You could pitch a tent under the coconut trees or occupy the few inexpensive resorts where electricity runs from 5 pm to 11 pm. When going there, best to bring your own provisions. This island, at this time, is for those who fancy cooking their own food in a fire they themselves have to build, although the friendly locals are there to lend a helping hand if you so wish.

Nights can be creepy with the strangest bird sounds you'll ever hear, but when the moon is full and the water is still, you might experience some state of freedom and enlightenment there.

Hidden Falls in Marinduque

2011-11-24T09:46:00.006+08:00

Hinulugan Falls in Torrijos, Marinduque is located between Brgy. Sabong and Sitio Kitay. It has a small rock cave at the side of the raven where water also enters.

More hidden falls could be found in the central Marinduque area, Magdumog-dumog Falls and Batingaw Falls in Tumagabok (Boac). With 4-wheel drive vehicles or mountain bikes, access to areas near these sites has been made possible with the construction and rehabilitation of the Boac-Torrijos Road project that cuts through interior Boac to Torrijos.

Marinduque's Palarong Panlalawigan 2011

2011-11-23T14:10:00.012+08:00

Unsportsmanlike conduct, negative practices such as tampering of official records and impersonation of athletes in sports activities are among those the Department of Education wants to discourage or avoid altogether. In the conduct of local sports activities, these are given emphasis, as in tomorrow’s opening of 2011 Palarong Panlalawigan in Torrijos.

Elementary and high school athletes across the Division of Marinduque will meet for the formal opening of the Palarong Panlalawigan 2010. The activity is scheduled from November 24-27, at the Torrijos Central Athletic Arena.

This year’s Palaro aims to promote physical fitness of everyone in the division, bring together all schools as one family in a well-managed sports competition to foster self-discipline, teamwork, excellence and other values; identify sports talents who could be honed for regional and national competitions.

Dr. Teresita S. Bacudo, OIC, Schools Division Superintendent, will declare the formal opening of the Provincial Meet after the traditional rituals that include hoisting the DepEd Marinduque Banner and Delegation Flags, lighting of the urn, oath of amateurism and messages from barangay, municipal, and provincial leaders including Congressman Lord Allan Velasco.

The amateur athletes will compete in arnis, baseball,badminton, basketball,boxing, chess, lawn tennis, table tennis, sepak takraw, softball, taekwondo and volleyball.

Luneta Park in Torrijos

Closer look at Biggel's Tagalog

2011-11-21T14:07:00.014+08:00

Item: “ONE OF THE most engaging housemates of “PBB UnliNight” is the 19-year old Joseph Biggel, the fisherman-farmer from Marinduque who speaks Tagalog with a very “promdi” accent.” (PBB Unlinight’s Joseph Biggel and Slater Young winning many fans, Showbiz Portal. 11.10.11).

“Promdi” is a corruption of “from the province”, so the description is quite accurate. It is for the same reason why Biggel was tagged the “Promdihirang Tisoy ng Marinduque”.

But this really gives us an opportunity to take a closer look on the Tagalog that Biggel speaks.

So we go back a bit. The “development and adoption of a common national language based on one of the existing native dialects” was actually provided for in the 1935 Philippine Constitution. A National Language Institute was created thereafter which, after a study and survey of existing native languages, recommended the adoption of Tagalog as the core of the national language.

Eight major languages in the country were identified during that period on the basis of the number of native speakers: Tagalog (4,068,565); Cebuano (3,620,685), Ilocano (2,353,318), Hiligaynon (1,951,005), Bicol (1,289,424), Waray (920,009), Pampango (621,455), and Pangasinan (573,752).

On January 12, 1937, President Manuel L. Quezon appointed the members of the Commission on National Language for that purpose with the following as first members: Jaime C. de Veyra (Samar-Leyte Visayan), Chairman, Santiago A. Fonacier (Ilocano), Member; Filemon Sotto (Cebu Visayan), Member; Casimiro F. Perfecto (Bicol), Member; Felix S. Salas Rodriguez (Panay Visayan), Member; Hadji Butu (Moro), Member and Cecilio López (Tagalog), Member and Secretary.

Now it is the same Cecilio Lopez, the only native Tagalog speaker in the Commission and who would eventually be known as the Father of Philippine Linguistics, who made a study of the Tagalog spoken on Marinduque island. He wrote conclusively that it is “the root or among the roots from which modern national forms of speech have sprung”, and this is “where remnants of archaic Tagalog could be found”.

So Biggel’s Tagalog should really be something of interest.

Even Filipino language researchers from Surian ng Wikang Pambansa are one in saying that languages are fluid, taking on different words and phrases depending on outside influences and that no language remains the same.

But when you start looking at the roots of a language, and we now have a fairly good idea where the language started based on Lopez’ studies, we can at least see or experience where that language took its ideas from.

So how about going back to the roots of Tagalog by travelling to the beautiful island of Marinduque and listening to how the natives speak it. Then when you get used to, perhaps you could enrich your own Filipino (which is essentially Tagalog, anyway), with the version of Tagalog spoken here? In the process we could even help resolve the language problem that confronts us, Filipinos.

If something prevents you from doing it yet, listening nightly to Pinoy Big Brother housemate, Joseph Biggel’s speech could probably serve as an interesting and very practical start.

Biggel as trending topic

2011-11-21T11:44:00.003+08:00

Alvin Patrimonio, PBB's Biggel become trending topics

abs-cbnNEWS.com
Posted at 11/19/2011 6:42 PM | Updated as of 11/20/2011 4:48 PM

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine basketball legend Alvin Patrimonio and "Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited" housemate Joseph Biggel became trending topics in the social networking site Twitter on Friday night.

Following the PBB Unlinight episode aired on Friday, wherein Patrimonio made a special appearance, several netizens actively tweeted about it, making “Alvin Patrimonio” and “Biggel” among the top Twitter trending topics in the Philippines.

“Alvin Patrimonio” landed on 4th place, while “Biggel” made it as far as 9th.

Several netizens were thrilled to see Patrimonio, an icon who reminded them of their younger days.

Twitter user @TheNurseOnline said, “OMG! Alvin Patrimonio is trending. I remember my childhood crush and long time basketball hero. #Purefoods forever. <3”

Some, on the other hand, were disappointed for missing the special PBB episode.

“Why did I not watch last nyt na-miss ko tuloy all the talk with my PBA idol forever Alvin Patrimonio #PBBunlinyt”, @Angelsdg tweeted.

Meanwhile, since Biggel and his daughter Tin are considered a "couple-in-the-making" inside the PBB house, Patrimonio’s visit raised interest among some netizens.

Several PBB fans were moved with how Patrimonio got along well with his daughter’s “suitor.”

Twitter user @alberthegreat05 tweeted, “Alvin Patrimonio nice athlete, nice dad, i think he doesnt judge biggel by his status in life.”

Netizen @darrahsweet, on the other hand, commented, “Naks. Swerte naman ni Biggel :) so bait ni Alvin patrimonio sa #pbbunlinight.”

Vistans and Buenavista

2011-11-16T13:46:00.008+08:00

A day before he celebrated his 34th birthday with the populace in Buenavista town, Congressman Velasco's "Team Velasco" engaged the local basketball team "Team Vistan" in a friendly match at the Buenavista Covered Court.

The Vistans led by Mayor Madrigal won 79-67.

Team Velasco led by the Congresman himself (second from left), is composed of his staff from the district offices in Manila, Boac and Sta. Cruz that includes Michael Vincent Velasco, Montano Nazario, Erick Abad, Arnold Isorena, John Carlo Mendoza, Erick Anthony San Juan, Roldan Jalos, Nestor Recto, Fernando Rendiza, Dadong Lunay and Ogie Morales.

Team Vistan is composed of Mayor Madrigal, Mandy Navisa, Dodong Olores, Emmanuel Sarili, Joker Madrigal, Rannel Castillo, Roy Mandac, J. Jamolin, Fernan Manansala, Christopher Janda, Ernesto Navisa, David Vitto, M. Quejano and J. Luna.

Buenavista has an area of 8,127 hectares with a population of 21,018 (2007 figures).

A major tourist destination in this island-province, Buenavista's top favorite attractions include the Lourdes Grotto in Sitio Sapinit, Brgy. Bagtingon, Bulusukan Falls, Malbog Sulfuric Hot Spring, Marinduque Hot Spring Resort, the Malindig Volcano, the Yook Cove, and the luxury resort, Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa for the high-end toursts.

Buenavista's elderly in sheer fun

2011-11-16T13:16:00.010+08:00

In some areas in the countryside, the Elderly Filipino Week was conducted by introducing Hataw exercises for the health and well-being of our senior citizens.

In Buenavista, the elderly, together with former Mayor Ofelia S. Madrigal, incumbent Mayor Russel Madrigal, Office of Senior Citizens Affair President, Elenita Oblea, Congressman Lord Allan Velasco and members of the town's barangay senior citizens orgs celebrated the week by doing what they really love most - singing, dancing, simply exchanging jokes and having sheer fun.

The theme adopted for the celebration was "Nakatatanda, Gabay, Tulay, Kaagapay at Bantay tungo sa Kaunlaran" to emphasize the elderly's role in our society.

From left, former Mayor Ofelia S. Madrigal, Mrs. Elenita Oblea, Congressman Velasco and Mayor Russel Madrigal.

Maniwaya Is.

2011-11-14T14:43:00.003+08:00

Small group enjoying another weekend at Maniwaya Island. No noise, no huge crowd there. With their own laughter just continuously drowned out by the gentle breeze.

Biggel's Marinduque Tagalog

2011-11-11T13:05:00.010+08:00

PBB Housemates Biggel (Marinduque) and Carlo (Chicago)

He only speaks Marinduque Tagalog throughout the Pinoy Big Brother show, and in the process, promotes the ngani-mandin-baya language considered as the root of the modern national forms that we, Filipinos, speak today.

Likewise, Joseph Emil Biggel is helping generate awareness on Marinduque culture that attracts tourism and, certainly, deserves our support as the first Marinduqueno PBB official housemate.

Biggel with Tin Patrimonio (Quezon City)

Quote:

Biggle to Tin:

Tin, pwede maka request? kuna daw yung tualya ko dun sa ano. hanapa yung tualya ko dun o sa may sapatos ko hanapa laang...

Various facebook fan pages have been created for each individual housemates with those coming from the big cities/countries registering the highest number of 'likes".

Samples: Seichang (Japan), 25,440; Tin (Quezon City), 16,002; Kim (Olongapo), 12,945; Divine (Cebu), 10,913; Kevin (California), 10,054; Pamu (Batangas), 9,919; Slater (Cebu), 9,878; Kigoy (Ormoc), 7,288; Biggel (Marinduque), 6,808; Carlo (Chicago), 5,185; Roy (Pangasinan), 4,015; Luz (Muntinlupa), 3,837; Paco (Gensan), 3,724.

Let's support Biggel by liking one of Biggel's official PBB fan pages here

Biggel boarding Zestair

At nang magpasimuno si Biggel sa pagkutkot at pagpapak ng tutong na parang nasa Banot laang:

Velasco's happy birthday celebration in Buenavista

2011-11-10T13:53:00.021+08:00

Photos from yesterday's celebration of Cong. Lord Allan Velasco's birthday and "Araw ng Buenavista".

Big groups from all Buenavista barangays trooped to the coastal park where the main program sponsored by Cong. Velasco was held.

Groups representing government offices, agencies and NGOs from all the other municipalities then arrived early in the evening for the reception in the same venue hosted by Velasco. A live band provided the entertainment with special guest stars Aubrey Miles (Survivors) and Jacqueline Yu (Amazing Race).

Cong. Lord Allan Velasco offering a song to the cheering audience

Lower solo photos:
Jacqueline Yu

Aubrey Miles

Today's Takbo sa Pag-asenso in Buenavista

2011-11-09T13:58:00.002+08:00

Cong. Velasco's Birthday Today

2011-11-09T09:54:00.010+08:00

It's Marinduque Congressman Lord Allan Velasco's Birthday today, November 9th. The town of Buenavista also commemorates its 93rd founding anniversary with Velasco as special guest of honor.

Last year, the legislator quietly celebrated his birthday in Brgy. Bagtingon, one of the towns poorest barangays by distributing gifts to indigent families. Tonight, Velasco hosts a reception at the Buenavista Covered Court for local officials, supporters and friends.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CONGRESSMAN VELASCO !!!

Mesmerizing Mogpog

2011-11-08T15:41:00.012+08:00

Bergen - just like Balanacan

A visiting Norwegian friend from Bergen has likened it to his hometown of snaking fjords. Balanacan harbor in Mogpog is Marinduque’s major entry point, one of the country’s finest and probably the most picturesque of all natural harbors. In its vicinity called Mataas na Bundok lies a marker, now a national landmark and eco-tourism site, that defined the origin of Luzon Datum of 1911, known as Datum Station Balanacan.
Now this is Balanacan. Photo courtesy of Gblontok

As the Mother of all Surveys in the country, all surveys had to be corrected and based only on the position of this station, and that makes it the geodetic center of the Philippines.

A new resort, Palms by the Beach, has opened in Balanacan that offers a spectacular view of the cove. Wednesdays and Fridays here means dancing with a live band till 11 p.m.

This view awaits visitors to Palms by the Beach

Going extreme at the old Capayang mine site

Sports enthusiasts may bike to Tarug Caves and Municipal Forest Park that offers raw rock climbing and spelunking episodes. Those fit to make it to the top will be rewarded with a 360 degree glimpses of the towns of Mogpog, Sta. Cruz, and Boac. More extreme sports enthusiasts have also frequented an abandoned mine site in Capayang that offers real extreme conditions where a lot of technical drops, turns, climbs, mud pits and rock beds for the adrenalin 'junkies' exist.

The town boasts of its claim as the birthplace of the “Moryonan”, popularized as “Moriones”, that old form of Holy Week penitence involving the wearing of masks in the guise of Roman soldiers or how the penitents imagined the centurions to look like. The practice has given Marinduque its unique identity in terms of folk culture.

The joy of life and thanksgiving are celebrated through the “Kangga Festival” in the month of May with carabao-drawn carts filled with the farmers’ harvests to give thanks to the patron saint, San Isidro Labrador.

DPWH Marinduque: Catching up on infra (cont'd)

2011-11-07T14:31:00.002+08:00

Farm-to-Market (FMR) roads have, likewise, been constructed both in town centers such as Villa Mendez in Mogpog and far-flung areas like Sitio Manlumod, Brgy. Guisian, once a rebel-infested area in northern Mogpog.

There's, therefore, a lot of catching up to do in the province of Marinduque in the area of road and infrastructure development, brought about by factors already mentioned.

“The general perception of the people down from the barangay level was that a significant improvement in terms of the quality of road projects done during the previous post of the district engineer compared to the present one became highly noticeable”, Bishop Evanglista of the Diocese of Boac stated in his missive to DPWH Secretary Singson.

The Bishop also pointed out that the DPWH district office had long suffered from negative criticism due to ill managed projects, but is now gaining support and has served as a role model agency in the province particularly in the areas of “work ethics, honesty and transparency in the disbursement of funds and awarding of biddings”, among others.

A building in Mogpog to serve as the Police Station was inaugurated recently and is among those constructed by DPWH from Congressman Allan Velasco's Prioriy Development Assistance Fund (PDAF)

There are still many local barangays that prioritize the construction or repairs of barangay halls when identifying their infrastructure needs. In the municipality of Mogpog, some barangay where the DPWH has completed or ongoing multi-purpose building projects are:

Barangay Mangyan-Mababad

Barangay Anapog-Sibucao

Barangay Banto

Barangay Silangan

Barangay Hinanggayon

Barangay Danao

Barangay Hinadharan

Barangay Lamesa

Barangay Paye

DPWH Infrastructure Projects in Marinduque

2011-11-04T14:10:00.019+08:00

Photo: Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) in Brgy. Argao.

Cong. Velasco's PDAF and fund sources

In the province of Marinduque the DPWH with funding sources from Cong. Velasco's PDAF and various infrastructure including local projects (VILP), continues to undertake various projects. This include asphalt overlaying and concreting of the Marinduque Circumferential Road, construction or repair of multi-purpose buildings, construction or rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads, repair and maintenance of revetment walls and construction of water systems, etc.

Addressing DPWH corruption issues

Over the years the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), has been perceived by the public as one of the most corrupt agencies. According to a report from DPWH itself corruption occurs in areas such as procurement of civil works, consultancy services and goods and materials, quality of infrastructure projects, implementation and organizational structure. To rectify this situation, steps have been undertaken to initiate reforms.

In these photos: FMR Brgy. Candahon

FMR in Brgy. Balanacan

FMR Marketsite, Mogpog

FMR Brgy. Laon

FMR Brgy. Capayang

Some of these are the development of a computer-based DPWH registry of civil works contractors for eligibility and screening of contractors.

Quarterly assessment by the Quality Assurance Unit to check compliance of on-going and completed projects with the approved specifications. In areas where delays appear to be deliberately done by some contractors or consultants so that project duration can be extended, necessarily extending also the works of contractors and consultants, corrective measures have also been undertaken.

Appropriate measures have, likewise, been undertaken so that construction materials are in conformity with the standard specification requirements of the Department.

In the area of projects implementation, it has been observed that camaraderie between contractors and DPWH personnel has in many cases led to laxity in project implementation and assessment. Job rotation of personnel, therefore, to avoid camaraderie with contractors is a continuing process.

DPWH Secretary Singson's move

On his part, DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, has encouraged the involvement of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), not only in the budgeting process but in all stages of project development cycle. They are also encouraged to work hand in hand with LGU’s, congressmen and other significant government agencies in identifying and prioritizing projects in rural areas.

FMR Brgy. Sumangga

Response from the local Diocese

As far as the local Church, the Diocese of Boac, is concerned it has had the opportunity to work hand in hand with the DPWH Marinduque District Office to ensure that “ill-managed projects of the past” are avoided.

In a letter sent to the DPWH Secretary Singson earlier this year, the Diocese of Boac, through Bishop Reynaldo G. Evangelista, expressed satisfaction that the DPWH District Office under District Engineer Tiburcio Canlas, has been carrying out his duty “with utmost diligence”.

“The province of Marinduque has long suffered from infrastructural projects, which are either overpriced or were done with low standard and thus were easily damaged due to poor structural integrity”, Evangelista stated.

(cont'd)

Biggel Fever in Marinduque

2011-11-03T15:58:00.005+08:00

Biggel while waiting at the Marinduque Airport for the Zestair flight to Manila. From left, his Lolo Eligio, cousin Aaron, Lola Violeta and Joseph Emil Biggel.

PBB Official Housemate No. #1, Joseph Biggel's entry to the Pinoy Big Brother house on Oct. 29, 2011.

Joseph Biggel, Bognuyan National High School Batch 2009

2011-11-01T12:46:00.006+08:00

Poster near Brgy. Banot in Gasan, Marinduque.

PBB snippet with Biggel from ABS-CBN

Here are the official housemates of Pinoy Big Brother Season 4 (PBB) Unlimited.

1. Joseph Biggel - Promdihirang Tisoy ng Marinduque
2. Kim de Guzman - Stunning Sweetheart ng Olongapo
3. Slater Young - Hot Engineer ng Cebu
4. Jaz Manabat - Sensual Siren ng Quezon City
5. Paco Evangelista - Hopeless Romantic ng Gensan
6. Kevin Fowler - Dreamboy ng California
7. Pamu Pamorada - Kiti kiti Kid ng Batangas
8. Seichang Ushimi - Pinoy Anime ng Japan
9. Luz McClinton - Mom of Steel ng Muntinlupa
10. Roy Gamboa - Sales Lakay ng Pangasinan
11. Kigoy Abarico - Bay Diskarte ng Ormoc
12. Tin Patrimonio - Captain's Daughter ng Quezon City
13. Divine Maitland - Smith - Darling Dude ng Cebu

Kevin, Carlo, Seichang and Biggel work-out.

Promdihirang Tisoy ng Marinduque!

2011-10-30T12:47:00.003+08:00

PBB teaser on Promdihirang Tisoy ng Marinduque!

Marinduque boy now official PBB housemate!

2011-10-30T11:47:00.012+08:00

OMG! He did It! Marinduque’s Joseph Emil Biggel is PBB Housemate now!

Promising to be the biggest and most sophisticated Pinoy Big Brother Season ever, the most famous yellow and blue house in the country opened its door last night to 13 official housemates.

Bahay ni Kuya with hosts Toni Gonzaga, Bianca Gonzales and Robi Domingo welcomed Marinduque’s 19-year old Joseph Biggel from the fishing-farming village of Banot in Gasan town. Biggel was among 30,789 who earlier auditioned for PBB, one of the most life-changing reality shows on national and global television.

Selected potential housemates numbered more than 1,000 then trimmed down to only 48, according PBB final updates, during the final selection after a stiff process of screening that covered a period of seven months.

Biggel's was PBB #15913

Biggel, “promdihirang tisoy ng Marinduque” was how the show introduced him, is of Filipino and German descent. At age six he, together with a younger sister, was left by estranged parents to maternal grandparents who were left fending for the kid and the baby from then on, as the old couple engaged in farming and fishing for living in their coastal hamlet; the boy learning to do the same and other odd jobs, as he grew up.

After the slideshow on "Biggel". also his official PBB name, in last night’s kick-off show, Toni asked what he would like to say to his parents wherever they might be.

“"Ma, pa, si Joseph to, sana nanunuod kayo, malaki na po ako. Maayos naman po ang pagpapalaki ng lolo't lola ko", on the verge of tears, he said. Hosts Bianca and Robi then lead Biggel and the other housemates to a tunnel that ended in an an opening that led to, lo and behold!, so different from the previous classy episodes. PBB seems to want to make a statement on the country's stark realities this time.

Question is, how different is it from the one "Biggel" has known? You wonder.

Trick or treating in Torrijos

2011-10-28T16:43:00.002+08:00

They've been trick-or-treating in Torrijos pala for the last ten years. Children dressed up as ghouls or ghosts parade in the streets joined in by their equally ecstatic mothers or titas.

It isn't clear whether they ask for sweets from house to house, but apparently members of the Marinduque Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Torrijos Chapter chip in to treat the kids to gifts and refreshments.

I suppose the trick part of the practice is exclusive to those who are no longer kids but engage in juvenile mischief on the homeowners as they sing "kaluluwa'y nandirito, kaluluwa sa purgatoryo nanaog dito sa mundo...", while keeping hush the chicken in the bugako fated for pulutan.

I suppose, also, that the mischievous 'nangangaluluwa' folks have suspected long ago that purgatory never existed anyway.

"The term does not indicate a place, but a condition of existence. Those who, after death, exist in a state of purification, are already in the love of Christ..." (cf. Ecumenical Council of Florence, Decretum pro Graecis: DS 1304; Ecumenical Council of Trent, Decretum de iustificatione: DS 1580; Decretum de purgatorio: DS 1820).

Marinduque contender in PBB Season 4 Unlimited

2011-10-28T14:57:00.001+08:00

A recent TV update of Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) revealed that one of the possible male housemates of this popular reality show comes from Marinduque. Local viewers are therefore eagerly awaiting that final moment when the "housemates" (as the PBB cast are referred to), are ushered into the Big Brother house, and if our Marinduque boy will make it.

There, the housemates will impart to the rest of the world their stories, talents and ability to face tough challenges (called tasks), imposed upon them by the enigmatic Kuya, or Big Brother.

The show's director, Laurenti Dyogi earlier reported that 30,789 people auditioned in various points nationwide between March and September this year, with additional overseas auditions carried out in the USA and Japan.

Other PBB updates suggest that 'PBB Season 4 Unlimited', as this year's show is dubbed, is prepared to surpass all the success of past editions, and this one will come with "mas malalaking pasabog".

The famous PBB house

The PBB Mall of Asia auditionees

PBB is shown on ABS-CBN Channel 2 and its international affiliate, The Filipino Channel, with snippets shown on Studio 23. The coverage this season will be much wider as the use of social media is expected to be maximized. The uncut 24/7 version of the series can followed on the internet through streaming video and a special cable channel provided by SkyCable.

So, let's watch it tomorrow night during the show's opening at 9:15 p.m., dubbed The Big Fiesta.

And the best of luck to our contender from Marinduque!

Kayaks and ATV's in Poctoy Beach, Torrijos

2011-10-27T14:37:00.023+08:00

KAYAKS IN POCTOY BEACH

Since the start of Summer 2011, visitors and the young people of Torrijos and neighboring towns have been enjoying the very special thrills derived from kayaking.

These kayaks are rented out by Beach Hut manager, Toper Matienzo who runs this picnic address that you find right at Poctoy Beach.

A lot of people who frequent this popular white-sand beach are now drawn to sampling these colorful kayaks, available to those who would rent them at Php 150 per hour.

The Beach Hut in Poctoy, Torrijos

In these kayaks the paddlers stroke a double-bladed paddle to travel farther out to the sea or just leisurely explore the coast of Torrijos Bay. These Poctoy sea-kayaks (Beach Hut has four of them), are designed for travel by two-paddlers on open water.

This new watersport is now attracting more local sea kayakers and tourists. Shown here is Matienzo (second from left), with recent kayakers from Britain.

ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES (ATV)

Beach Hut also rents out four-wheeled all-terrain vehicles (ATV). These vehicles are designed for a wider variety of terrain than most other vehicles. ATVs are defined as vehicles that travel on low pressure tires with a seat that is straddled by the operator, along with handlebars for steering control.

ATVs are perfect in maneuvering Torrijos’ terrain, such as the rugged and bumpy road leading to the Battle of Pulang Lupa historical site, the most recommended trail for riders.

Some ATV riders also travel from the battle site all the way down to the hamlets of Bangwayin and Maranlig, then back to Poctoy Beach. They pay Php 800 for single use of the vehicle, good for about three hours of a unique adventure. Beach Hut has four units available.

Lady maneuvers the ATV through a challenging trail in Bangwayin, Torrijos

Women ATV riders at the Battle of Pulang Lupa site that offers a panoramic view of northeastern and southeastern seaview of Marinduque

Boac's Laban and "Cuchera" to Toronto and Stockholm

2011-10-26T15:04:00.007+08:00

Joseph Israel Laban is a journalist and an independent film-maker from Boac, Marinduque. His film, "Cuchera" that starred Maria Isabel Lopez, is about drug mules, couriers and their recruiters involved in drug transshipment operation between Manila and China and how they become deeply entrenched in the world of illegal drugs.

The film was among the entries to the Cinemalaya Film Festival in Manila earlier this year. Last month, the said film, together with three other Filipino entries, went to Canada for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Next month "Cuchera" will see its European premiere in Sweden as a festival film for the Stockholm Film Festival (SFF) from November 8 - 20.

"The sex, the violence and the insertion of drugs into the character’s cavities never get too visually explicit. Laban effectively uses the sounds of disturbing screams and groans to complete the picture of misery. An exposé of people trying to survive Manila’s less gentle parts rather than a character study, this could be an eye-opener for many spectators." (SFF)

Travel directory trivia: Marinduque Rising is No. 4

2011-10-26T13:45:00.003+08:00

Bloglog is a blog directory and network where bloggers connect with readers and appears to increase their reach, among others. Bloglog.com's travel directory has today listed this blog as No. 4 (but slipping down some days).

It is interesting to be grouped with No. 1, Travel Feeder, 'a world travel photo blog by an avid travel photographer from Malaysia'; No. 2 is AccessJ.com on 'insider tips for working in and visiting Japan'; No. 3 is Smitten by Britain, 'the world's first blog for Britophiles - people who love Great Britain'...

and No. 4 is Marinduque Rising, about 'people, places, events, culture, history and all that there is on Marinduque'.

Maybe, just maybe, Marinduque is rising, drawing interest somehow.

Cheers everyone!

Marinduque visitors

2011-10-26T12:18:00.006+08:00

PBA Partylist Representative, Mark Sambar and movie-TV personality Geneva Cruz were recent Marinduque visitors. In a reception held at the residence of Cong. Lord Allan Velasco in Torrijos with local officials and other guests, they were treated to a "Putong" welcome ritual performed by tourism students of MSC.

Geneva couldn't resist responding to the local hospitality by singing "Line to Heaven", a song written by her ex-hubby Paco Arespacochaga, with guests joining in the chorus, "If I ever had a line to heaven I swear I'd call you there..."

Shimmering Sta. Cruz

2011-10-25T11:18:00.011+08:00

The islands of Mompong, Maniwaya and Polo are three of the most popular islands in Sta. Cruz, Marinduque. They are frequented by island-hoppers and visitors for their fine sand beaches and underwater coral gardens.

Maniwaya, the biggest of these populated islands has been bruited about by new developers as another Boracay in the offing due to its proximity to the Luzon mainland. (Just 45 minutes from Gen. Luna, Quezon).

Bathala Caves, still is a popular attraction due to its historical and cultural importance, but has not been protected from vandals over time. It still provides that unique experience with stalactites and stalagmiteste, natural stone formations, resident bats flying in droves and occasional boas.

A huge cave with a small entrance, the San Isidro Cave, was discovered in recent years in a barangay with the same name. It revealed a subterranean river system the entire length of which has not been trodden to-date. Its timely discovery fortunately triggered a new impetus among the populace on the need to conserve and protect nature’s wonders.

Sta. Cruz town is considered the sea food capital of the province. The town has been blessed by large tracts of mangrove forests, some of which have been converted into fishponds. Manakla, crawfish, punaw bivalves and lato seaweeds are among those that visitors have heard about and look for.

The Sta. Cruz Church is the oldest in the province, with intricately-carved retablos and pulpit still intact. Most of the church interiors and furnishings are well-preserved.

The church complex includes a large convento used from time to time to hold social functions.

A well-preserved baluarte in the village of Bitik still stands as a witness to local incursions by the pillaging pirates of yore.

Sta. Cruz is a 1st class municipality with a population of 61,322 in 2007.

Battle of Morions in Sta. Cruz

30 Marinduque sitios for electrification

2011-10-24T14:22:00.008+08:00

President Benigno S. Aquino III has approved the Sitio Electrification and Barangay Line Enhancement Program as part of his thrust of accelerating socio-economic development in the countryside. This was made possible through the intercession of Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras and legislators including Cong. Allan Velasco, supportive of the rural electrification program.

As a result, funds have been released to the Marinduque Electric Cooperative (MARELCO), among other electric coops by the National Electrification Administration (NEA) under official receipt no. 374631 for the implementation of projects to various sitios in the Lone District of Marinduque.

The list of sitios validated by NEA based on the criteria such as proximity to the tapping line, density or the number of potential consumers, access to site and also the cooperation of local leaders and residents are as follows:

In Boac: Sitio Mansapay, (Mahinhin), Sitio Bana/Pinagsangahan (Canat), Sitio Amotiongan (Binunga), Sitio Hantikin (Agumaymayan);
In Sta. Cruz: Sitio Ilaya (Masalukot), Sitio Ibaba (Kinyaman), Sitio Galiangan (Buyabod), Sitio Bundok (Jolo), Sitio Pantayin (Buyabod), Sitio Bagumbungan (San Isidro), Sitio Anusan (Dating Bayan), Sitio Kaluyahan/Punta (Polo), Sitio Duongan (Taytay), Sitio Mompong (Haguimit);

In Buenavista: Sitio Haynon (Malbog), Sitio Proper (Bicas-bicas, Sitio Kawayanan (Timbo), Zone 4 & 5 (Brgy. III), Sitio Ilaya (Bonliw);

In Torrijos: Sitio Mabilog (Makawayan), Sitio Mirasol (Malinao), Sitio Centro (Malibago), Sitio GK Poktoy (Poktoy), Sitio Danao (Sibuyao);

In Gasan: Sitio Libtangin, Cabugao, Purok, 2, 5 & 6 (Mahunig), Purok 2 (Banot;

In Mogpog: Sitio Lumandas (Magapua), Sitio Ilaya (Balanacan), Sitio Banga-banga (Balanacan).

The sitio electification and barangay line enhancement infrastructure is expected to bring jobs to rural areas, more access to basic conveniences and more improved standard of living for the barangay residents.

NEA has advised MARELCO to ensure the timely completion of the project, the status of project implementation of which will be coordinated by the Office of Congressman Velasco.

'No to mining' sign

2011-10-24T11:16:00.006+08:00

'No to Mining' sign in Bagtingon, Buenavista

By now, after three decades of mining disasters and environmental abuse it is possible that even on the farthest reaches of barangay roads, the Marinduque population must be deeply aware of the dangers that mining could, in no uncertain terms, bring to their lives.

But deception, outright denial of information and manipulation, however, have always been part of the Marinduque mining experience and these go on and on up to the present time.

Mining operations on this island have polluted the Calancan Bay, Mogpog and Boac Rivers and Tablas Strait, the ultimate sink for the daily doses of dreadful tailings carried down those rivers.

But these Buenavista children are not aware of the plight of others their age living in the villages elsewhere - in the Calancan Bay area north of Marinduque. There, some have been found to have high levels of lead and cyanide in their blood, as well as heavy metals in soil samples in the bay area. Unacceptable levels of lead, cadmium and elevated levels of copper and zinc were found. Even lead values were present in the air samples, exceeding tolerable levels.

Hearken to the sound of the sea in Hakupan

2011-10-21T14:34:00.010+08:00

Ain’t it so that sometimes you wish to get away from it all, to be in a place where nothing or no one could possibly bother you? A place to just hang around listening to the steady, rhythmic ocean waves.

When that longing comes it might be an idea to go to an island where a solitary old man lives but spends most of his time out at sea.

Hakupan Island is just about 4.5 hectares in size in the northern part of Marinduque, a part of the town of Sta. Cruz.

Once you get there by motorboat, you could perhaps just sit in this hut while sipping your drink, munching a sandwich, then do nothing except maybe start contemplating about writing your memoire..

3,455 Velasco scholars

2011-10-20T15:41:00.018+08:00

Applications for educational assistance grants to college students enrolled in Marinduque colleges continue to be processed by the district offices of Congressman Allan Velasco.

Applicants are required to submit a certified true copy of grades, certificate of registration from the relevant college, copy of birth certificate, certificate of indigence from their barangay as applicable, passport sized photos and duly accomplished application forms.

As of July 31, 2011 the number of recipients under this program, known as the Velasco Achievers program, has totaled 3,455 students. Under this program, students receive Php 2,500.00 per semester while those in their school’s official dean’s list receive Php 5,000.00.

Students from the following schools have benefitted under this program: Marinduque State College (MSC) (Boac, Sta. Cruz, Gasan and Torrijos Campuses), Educational Systems Technological Institute (ESTI), Marinduque Midwest College (MMC), St. Mary’s College of Marinduque (SMCM), Sta. Cruz Institute (SCI), Malindig Institute (MI), Buyabod School of Arts & Trades (BSAT) and Torrijos Poblacion School of Arts & Trades (TPSAT).

Funds for Velasco Achievers program are sourced from the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) for MSC students, with additional funding secured from the Commission on Higher Education (ChEd), for those enrolled in private schools, and Technology Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for schools that offer science and technology courses.

Recently, the Velasco Achievers also obtained additional support from Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Partylist Representative Mark Aeron Sambar who was a recent visitor to Marinduque.

Financial assistance checks were recently distributed to students of Marinduque State College by Cong. Velasco and by PBA Partylist Representative. Cong. Mark Sambar.

PDAF and Marinduque's Circumferential Road, etc.

2011-10-19T15:02:00.019+08:00

Concreting of the national road stretch in front of the Marinduque Airport is currently being undertaken by DPWH.

Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF)is a lump-sum appropriation in the annual General Appropriations Act to fund priority development programs and projects.

“Soft” programs and projects are identified following a shortlist as provided for in the General Appropriations Act such as scholarships, medical assistance to indigent patients, livelihood support programs, water supply, peace and order and financial support to local government units for their priority projects. Small infrastructure projects like roads and bridges, irrigation facilities, potable water systems, school buildings, health facilities, public markets and multi-purpose buildings are also included here.

Congressman Velasco in a consultation meeting with DPWH officials and barangay captains from areas where specific infrastructure projects have been identified and prioritized.

PDAF funds are small-scale but significant projects and programs in the congressional districts which do not qualify under the mega concerns of the national agencies or are ignored by them for being miniscule. These minor projects bring the government closer to the people and complement the national government’s agenda on the speedy and adequate delivery of basic social services as well as the promotion of infrastructure development.

All congressional districts, such as the Lone District of Marinduque under Congressman Allan Velasco, are entitled to “soft” and “hard” (infrastructure) projects like those identified by the Congressman himself.

This is so because individual members of Congress are deemed more knowledgeable about the needs of their respective constituents as well as the priority given each project.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), also continues to address infrastructure inadequacy in the island-province of Marinduque. Lump sum allocation for Regular Congressional Allocation is earmarked for infrastructure projects for the construction, repair, improvements and rehab of roads and bridges, flood control, water supply system, school buildings, health facilities, public markets and multi-purpose buildings and pavements.

Concreting of the Bancoro-Daykitin section of the Marinduque Circumferential Road is also currently being undertaken.

Concreting of the Poblacion Buenavista section of the Marinduque Circumferential. Completed as of today.

Many infrastructure projects completed by DPWH Marinduque District Engineering Office have received positive response from the public, particularly in such areas throughout the province of Marinduque where these numerous projects have been undertaken.

Such projects are strictly monitored where testing of fine and coarse aggregates in the case of road projects must pass all quality test requirements under the most recent official standard specifications.

When good men die...

2011-10-19T12:49:00.007+08:00

When good men die their goodness does not perish, but lives though they are gone. As for the bad, all that was theirs dies and is buried with them - Euripides.

Father Tino (center) flanked by Macrine Katague, Genny Nieva, David Katague, Bing Carrion-Buck, and Rene Nieva.

Rev. Fr. Constantino Nieva (Ret.) of Boac has passed on. His remains were buried at the Boac Cemetery this morning. Following is an article on 'Tito Tino' by David Katague dated May 19, 2011, after a visit to the late Fr. Nieva

A Visit with Father Constantino Nieva

Three weeks ago, prior to our return to US, we visited Macrine's uncle, Reverend Father Constantino Nieva( Retired) in Metro Manila. Tito Tino (that is the name that Macrine and I call him) is now under the care of Macrine's first cousin Bing Carrion. Tito Tino is afflicted with expressive amnesia or Alzheimer's disease. This affliction started about 4 years ago after his retirement as a parish priest in Long Island, New York.

Father Nieva's career parallels mine. I first knew of him at the University of the Philippines in Diliman in 1952. He was then President of the UP Student Catholic Action(UPSCA) and in Law school while I was also president of UPSCA, Iloilo Chapter. In 1953 when I transferred to Diliman, our friendship grew and he introduced me to his niece, Macrine Nieva Jambalos, and the rest is history. Fr. Tino finished Law school, but decided he wanted to be priest, after one year of practicing corporate law in Manila. He finished seminary school and decided to go to Rome ( Vatican), Italy for his Ph.D in Theology.

After his Ph. D graduation, the Nieva Clan in Boac, Marinduque wanted him to return to the Philippines. But Tito Tino had other plans. He wanted to stay in US . During this time, he would visit us during his vacation from his parish duties in the State of New York. He was happy of being a parish priest until he retired about 5 years ago. We visited him in his parish house in Long Island two years before his retirement, when he was hospitalized for prostrate surgery. At that time, we were still residing in Maryland.

He retired in the Philippines in 2006. His Alzheimer's affliction started about 4 years ago. When we visited him about 3 years ago, his memory was not that bad and he could still talk. In our last visit three weeks ago, he could not talk, but would give you a stare and a half smile as if he remembers. Fr. Tino is having good care at the Bing Carrion's residence. Bing informed us that her only regret is that two of Fr. Tino older sisters who are still alive and residing in Manila and Marinduque had never visited him. We will continue to pray for Fr. Tino's health. We also gave our thanks to Bing Carrion for taking care of our uncle, the Rev Fr. Constantino Nieva (Retired) of Boac, Marinduque. The photo above was taken three weeks ago during our recent visit (May 8, 2011) at Bing Carrion residence.

Winning photo by Ian Rodas

2011-10-17T14:23:00.003+08:00

'The Great Boac Worldwide Photowalk of 2011' winning entry (untitled) by Rubenal "Ian" Rodas.

This photo competes with more than 1,000 others that have been chosen as local photowalk winners worldwide. The first local photowalk in Boac, Marinduque was organized by Dan Pagulayan.

Grand Prize winner will be chosen by Scott Kelby. Kelby is a photographer, editor and publisher of Photoshop User and Layers magazines, designer, and the award-winning author of more than 40 books on digital photography.

The local photowalk appears to have spurred interest among local photography enthusiasts. The formation of a local camera club as an offshoot of this activity is now fast gaining support.

Torrijos Tranquility

2011-10-17T12:55:00.012+08:00

A long stretch of white-sand beach in Barangay Poctoy in Torrijos town is considered the finest and most accessible white sand beach in mainland Marinduque.

It is the most popular place on the island in summertime. Summer activities include beach volleyballs, bikini opens, and more recently, kayaking. Crave for fresh marine catch brought in by local fishermen.

Summertime beach-volleyball in Poctoy beach

The Battle of Pulang Lupa Historical Site is where a major Filipino victory during the Philippine-American War transpired. To reach this spot, hikers may wish to trek 3 kilometers uphill overlooking cliffs and simply spectacular views of the valleys, the Malindig volcano and the coast of Torrijos.

Chi-chi crowd includes former DOT secretary, Alberto Lim, seen here watching a loom-weaver at work.

The women buntal-weavers of Barangay Matuyatuya and Bonliw produce much sought-after table runners and placemats that are popular gift items even among the chi-chi crowd. Known collectively as Torrijos loom-weavers these women also mix other materials such as nito vines, wild cogon grass, coconut fibers, corn husks and stalks to produce other utility or decorative products.

Beach Club Cagpo is in Torrijos

Torrijos has a well-manicured seaside park named after its Luneta Park inspiration that’s a favorite picnic ground in the morning, and lover’s tryst in the evening. Torrijos is also home to Beach Club Cagpo that invites visitors with its tagline “come and join our dream on a serene setting”. It guarantees good food, enchanting evenings and simply awesome experience under its Australia/German-Filipino management.

Wherelse but in Torrijos will you find tranquility in your soul...

DOST Scholarships: Jump start your future with S&T

2011-10-14T12:43:00.008+08:00

The Department of Science and Technology has announced the availability of the 2012 Science and Technology Scholarships for qualified graduating senior high school students. The DOST-SEI undergraduate scholarships examination will be conducted nationwide on November 20, 2011 and the filing of application will be until October 21, 2011.

In Marinduque, it has been noted that there are municipalities which did not have examinees in the last four years (2008-2011). These municipalities are Buenavista and Torrijos.

Wider student participation in the scholarship examination is, thus, desired by DOST that requests the dissemination of application forms, brochures particularly in where no examinees have been listed. To be awarded are Bachelor of Science degree scholarships to students who wish to pursue priority fields of study in science, mathematics and engineering.

Application forms can be obtained from DOST offices, Provincial Science and Technology Center or from the Office of Cong. Allan Velasco. They are also downloadable at the website: www.sei.dost.gov.ph

Viva sa Produktong Marinduque!

2011-10-12T11:27:00.030+08:00

The promotion of economic development in the countryside through entrepreneurship and job creation is the aim of the government's One Town One Product (OTOP) program. This has been going on for several years now where products or services associated with a given locality are promoted, allowing optimal utilization of local resources and labor in the process.

These products include food, furniture and furnishing, fashion accessories, gifts, houseware and decors, etc.

The best of Marinduque products were showcased in this year's OTOP National Expo 2011. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in cooperation with Megamall, Manila Bulletin and other major sponsors, the expo ran from Sept. 21-25 at the SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

Local entrepreneurs, Julie Anne's Handicrafts from Bonliw, Sheena's Butterfly By-Products from Bintakay, Tex & Images from Santol, Iba 'to Olresaykel from Balanacan, Rejano's Bakery of Sta. Cruz, and Tanikala ng Pagkakaisa Multi-Purpose Cooperative of Tugos were there showcasing their best products.

The said products were quite a hit in the Expo. With that interest generated, interviews with PD Fabalena and some local entrepreneurs were featured in Studio 23's Saturday show, 'Thumbs Up' conducted by business expert Carl Balita, as well as for DZMM Teleradyo.

DTI Marinduque under PD Carlito Fabalena reported numerous book orders on top of gross sales amounting to nearly Php 200,000 for the 5-day affair.

The DTI staff thus returned to the island confident that the said Expo succeeded in highlighting public awareness of Marinduque and its products.

Viva OTOP! Viva DTI! Viva Produktong Marinduque!

DTI's technology mission for nito-weavers

2011-10-12T10:26:00.015+08:00

Selected nito-weavers from Brgy. Bocboc and Puting Buhangin recently went on a mission to Manila that allowed them some exposure to more product designs that could be applied to nito vines.

The trip, funded through Congressman Allan Velasco's livelihood support program included a visit to the Cottage Industry Technology Center (CITC) for technology upgrading with CITC’s Elvin Dimasuay.

The group also visited Product Development and Design Center of the Philippines (PDDCP), at the CCP Complex in Pasay City, the DTI-sponsored OTOP Exhibits at the SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City where Marinduque’s handmade and unique cottage products were sold, and Kultura Filipino where many more Philippine products were showcased.

In this technology mission were nito-weavers Maribel Loyola, Vivian Mauzar, Demetrio Nabiong of Brgy. Bocboc and Belen Luisaga of Brgy. Puting Buhangin with DTI Marinduque’s provincial director, Carlito Fabalena, DTI staff Ces Miciano, Mariden Calub and Harry Gutierrez.

Nito weaving flourishes in other parts of the country like Aklan, Iloilo and Dipolog City to name a few and has been a good source of livelihood.

These nito products are sold in major department stores nationwide. Nito placemats, decorative jars, baskets, serving trays, napkin rings, picture frames and even side tables are just some of the items the Marinduque group was able to inspect.

The mission looks forward to marketing nito-products from Mogpog in these venues.

A Chronologue on "No to Mining" in Marinduque

2011-10-10T14:44:00.016+08:00

On December 6, 2003, ten years after the Maguila-guila earth dam collapsed during a typhoon with heavy rains that virtually killed the Mogpog river, a rally was held in Mogpog town to oppose any future large-scale mining anywhere in the island-province and to continue seeking justice for the people affected by that tragedy.

That rally was spearheaded by the Church-based org, Marinduque Council for Environmental Concerns (MACEC), specifically calling for a 25-year mining moratorium in the entire province.

After nearly two years, on October 26, 2005, MACEC issued Resolution No. 2005-09, ‘strongly reiterating the earnest request of the Marinduque Council for Environmental Concerns for the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Marinduque to declare a 25-year mining moratorium in the entire province”.

Most Rev. Bishop Reynaldo G. Evangelista, Bishop of Boac

MACEC cited among others “the Church and Local Legislators Roundtable Discussion on Mining initiated by MACEC on March 15, 2005 (that) consolidated the stance of various entities opposing the reopening of mining operation in the province..”

Such stance, expressed through Resolutions from Sangguniang Bayans of Boac, Buenavista, Gasan, Mogpog and Torrijos, a Resolution from the Councilors’ League of the Philippines, Marinduque Chapter and a Pastoral Letter from Bishop Reynaldo G. Evangelista, Bishop of Boac, vehemently opposed the re-entry of mining companies in the province.

A part of Mogpog river

MACEC also recognized “the massive destruction of the province’s once pristine biodiversity and ecosystems, river systems, seas, forests and agricultural fields, aside from immense impacts to the health, livelihood and economy of marginalized Marinduqueños wrought by the almost 30 years of mining operation in the province and the ironic stagnation of the entire province’s economic status which places it as one of the poorest provinces in the country (4th Class Province).”

Two days later, on October 28, 2005, the 10th Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Marinduque (under the Reyes administration), adopted a Resolution declaring not a “25-year mining moratorium”, but a “50-Year Large Scale Mining Moratorium in the Province of Marinduque”.

From large scale to 'small-scale'

But by September 2006, we find MACEC expressing alarm with the "proliferation of mining companies in the island-province..which pose as "small-scale" players in the mining industry." It also cited that two mining companies held public consultation in Brgy. Bocboc, Mogpog with an offer of "various economic opportunities to the people if they will be allowed to operate a "small-scale iron mining project".

The mining companies named were Asian Iron Ore Corporation and Archean Mining Corporation, represented by Noel Mirabel and Isabelo Payongngayong.

MACEC Executive Director, Myke Magalang

MACEC's executive director Myke Magalang then called on all other environmental groups, anti-mining advocates and other advocacy groups “to document and expose other ‘pseudo small-scale’ mining permit applications in order to alert the people, expose to the media and effectively wage an all-out lobbying and monitoring activities in the Provincial Mining Regulatory Boards and regional offices of DENR’s Environmental Management Bureaus which process the ECCs."

Two months later, on November 10, 2006, we find on record that applications for Small-Scale Mining Permits were filed by proponents, Noel Mirabel and Isabelo Payongngayong with the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board which, record shows "was deliberated...and was favorably recommended for approval as per PMRB Resolution No. 2007-001."

The same applications, it turned out, were endorsed by the Municipal Government of Mogpog (under Mayor Jonathan Garcia), through SB Resolution No. 157-2006, as well as separate resolutions from the Sangguniang Barangays of Brgys. Bocboc and Puting Buhangin. Nevertheless, with MACEC pressure and strong opposition to mining activities, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Marinduque, adopted Resolution No. 710-2006 "requesting the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board to hold in abeyance the processing of the small-scale mining applications of Mirabel and Payongayong for iron ore extraction in Mogpog...as indorsed by SB Resolutin No. 157-2006 of the Sangguniang Bayan of Mogpog".

It would later surface from available data that on February 7, 2007, Small-Scale Iron Ore Mining of Poly Mining Group Development Corporation (Isabelo V. Payongngayong) has been issued an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) No. 45-007-MA-2160-2007 by the Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources MIMAROPA Region. (See photo of this extremely curious billboard posted in Brgy. Bocboc. Said billboard names a new mining company).

'Small Scale Mining' refers to mining activities which rely heavily on manual labor using simple implements and methods and do not use explosives and heavy mining equipments (R.A. 7076, Sect. 4.25)

These things were occurring during the watch of former Congressman Edmund Reyes and Governor Carmencita Reyes who held their respective positions without interruption from July 1998-June 2007). In May 2007 Governor Reyes in a letter to DENR Regon IV-B executive director Rolando de Jesus and concurrent chair of PMRB, requested to "refrain from allowing mining activities including small scale mining except for gravel and sand extraction, until our case against Marcopper/Placer Dome/Barrick has been resolved".

Under the term of Governor Carrion (July 2007-June 2010), the declaration of a 50-Year Large Scale Mining Moratorium in the province was reiterated by the 11th Sangguniang Panlalawigan through SP Resolution No. 25 s. 2007, which was "strongly supported by the environment advocates in the province, such as the Marinduque Council for Environmental Concerns". It was during this time when MACEC was accredited by the provincial government as official NGO representative to the Regional Development Council (IVB MIMAROPA).

It took two years for the PMRB under the Carrion administration to act on the pending mining applications in question that have been evaluated and considered by the previous board.

PMRB Resolution No. 03-09 of Sept. 29, 2009 was titled "A Resolution reiterating favorable consideration on PMRB Resolution No. 2007-01 Re: A “Resolution endorsing the application of Mr. Noel Mirabel and Mr. Isabelo Payongngayong for small-scale Mining (SSMP) Permit to extract iron ore in Barangay Bocboc and Puting Buhangin, Municipaiity of Mogpog, Marinduque, respectively”.

"Whereas, application for Small-Scale Mining Permits were filed by the proponents, Noel Mirambil and Isabelo Payongngayong with the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board on November 10, 2006 which was deliberated by the previous Board and was favorably recommended for approval as per PMRB Resolution No. 2007-01", it said.

More questions appear to have been raised by this listing of applications for Exploration Permit from DENR-IVB (MIMAROPA)that shows Poly Mining Group Dev. Corp (Tenement ID No. 00430IV) filed application No. 310 on 2/5/10 for Mogpog, Marinduque for an area of 1,705.5580 hectares for iron ore, copper, manganese, etc. with operator/previous holder named as Malayan Metal Mining Devt. Corp. with status as "published".

With the assumption into office of the members of the 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Marinduque, a new Resolution "Reiterating the Declaration of a Fifty (50) Year Large Scale Mining Moratorium in the Province of Marinduque" was adopted on July 20, 2010. Also in the same year the Municipal Government of Mogpog passed an ordinance known as the Mineral Resources Ordinance of Mogpog, Marinduque (SB Resolution No. 86-2010) that imposed a "moratorium on large scale and small scale activities within the Municipality of Mogpog fifty (50) years from effectivity of the ordinance".

Said ordinance expressly stated that "no permit or instrument whatsoever for the conduct of large and small scale mining activity within Mogpog shall be issued or be granted by any agency or instrumentality of the Municipality of Mogpog within the said period."

Mogpog Mayor Senen Livelo, Jr.

On June 21, 2011, Mogpog Mayor Senen Livelo, Jr. rejected a request from Poly Mining Group Dev. Corp. for approval of their business permit.

Today, bigger and more serious concerns have been voiced out by the local Mogpog population with the actual presence of heavy equipment and other mining equipment in Taluntunan that are not consistent with small-scale mining operations. Through MACEC they demand for non-extension of the mining permit issued to Poly Mining Group Development Corporation for ore extraction, etc. in Brgys. Bocboc and Puting Buhangin. The permit/s purportedly expires on October 12, 2011.

"I have witnessed the mining activities undertaken by Gold Star Mining Company, Samar Mining Company and Marinduque Industrial Mining Agents, Inc. in our sitio in Taluntunan (Brgy. Bocboc), but no progress was ever achieved by the people living here. I worked in all those mines during those years but what our barangay got in return was the destruction of our rivers and lands. We no longer want our experiences to be repeated. I do not believe that iron ore could be extracted with the mere use of pickaxe and crowbar, that's a lie.", Emilio Labatete, a MACEC officer who hails from Brgy. Bocboc was reported to have said.

A MACEC organized "No to Mining" peaceful rally will be held tomorrow, October 11, 2011. Assembly at 7:00 a.m. at Mogpog Covered Court and will proceed to the Provincial Capitol at 8:00 a.m.

http://www.minesandcommunities.org/article.php?a=4188&l=1
http://ederic.net/proliferation-of-small-scale-mining-alarms-marinduquenos/
http://ederic.net/minahan-sa-mogpog-tinanggihan/

Steve Jobs also reached our jeepney drivers

2011-10-07T10:36:00.005+08:00

It takes more than an hour to travel to Boac from Buenavista, south of the island of Marinduque, where you find the famed Bellarocca Resort and Spa, but local passengers thoroughly enjoy riding in jeepneys that offer something unusual. This driver has installed a laptop in his Buenavista-Boac bound jeepney that showed Hollywood action movies - the passengers were watching a Steven Segal thriller when I boarded this unique vehicle this morning.

But this really shows that even some of our local jeepney drivers have gone techie, too, and it confirms how far the original creator of the personal computer, Steve Jobs, has touched the lives of the masa in the most distant shores.

"Steve was among the greatest of American innovators - brave enough to think differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world, and talented enough to do it." (US president Barack Obama);

"The world has lost a visionary. And there may be no greater tribute to Steve's success than the fact that much of the world learned of his passing on a device he invented." (Microsoft chairman Bill Gates.

So true, indeed.

Brass bands and reunions

2011-10-05T14:16:00.009+08:00

Every now and then the sound of brass bands are still heard as the younger set of players go around the streets of Boac during religious events, anniversaries and special occasions, seen here as they parade in front of Casa de Don Emilio.

The new restaurant, Casa de Don Emilio, now dubbed as 'the home of authentic Marinduque cooking' is ready for intimate gatherings or grand feasts.

Yesterday, visiting balikbayan, Alice Smart and son Bryan (both standing at head table), treated former batchmates from Marinduque High School to a sumptuous lunch of that delightful Marinduque cooking.

The instant Class '70 reunion included Jean Sumo, Sergio Malapad, Julie Luarca, Ton Montegudo, Dindo Asuncion, Robert Morales, Elasio Ornos, Noel Magturo, Rosie Magcamit, Lina Leynes, Conchita Magcamit, Maribel Jambalos, Celia Sena, Alice Smart and this blogger.

Casa de Don Emilio and how we were

2011-10-05T10:05:00.018+08:00

Once upon an era in Boac, when the women were still clad in elegant sinamay na pinokpok and some men tried to wear the smooth, silky tinodtod; when the harvest of palay and lukad, copra, sustained the people; when they had time to engage in the production of anizado, gin, coconut oil and ilang-ilang scent extraction for the senses and for export, they also had significant time for dancing, singing and playing musical instruments.

Boac even had a music school then, producing pianists, violinists, other instrumentalists, composers, music teachers and classical soloists. This eventually led to the formation of several comparsas, groups in costume, of string ensembles (foremost of which were those organized by the Hidalgos, Madrigals, Allenegues and Riveras), and music bands such as one organized by Emilio Lardizabal, playing marchas and music popular at the time.

Lardizabal’s ancestral house that was the official home of the band – he was appointed Justice of the Peace in 1901 – was located in front of the Boac Plaza. It is where Kusina sa Plaza has been housed, and permanently now, for more than a couple of decades.

Restaurateur Aurora Pitero of Kusina sa Plaza, that popular eating place in this town, has purchased the said property lock, stock and barrel, and has decided to preserve, restore and refurbish the Don Emilio house as a tribute to the glory days of that bygone era.

The second floor, with its original furniture pieces, chandeliers and antique objects has been transformed into an elegant dining room aptly named ‘Casa de Don Emilio’.

Hanging on its walls are these antiquated band instruments, decidedly mute, dented and unpolished now, but were certainly among those that brought happiness and harmony to the Boac townfolks as they once whirled in to the anthems of that era.

More Casa de Don Emilio photos courtesy of Toby Jamilla/Casa de Don Emilio

"Can it be that it was all so simple then?
Or has time re-written every line?
But if we had the chance to do it all again
Tell me, would we? could we?"

Perennial threat of heavy rains and flooding in Mogpog

2011-10-03T14:06:00.011+08:00

A consultation meeting with Brgy. Bocboc officials this morning

The Pedring and Quiel back-to-back typhoons that affected more than 2 millions individuals, said DSWD, left at least 55 people dead and hundreds of villagers stuck on rooftops. Almost all of Luzon incuding Metro Manila was covered by storm signals but the island of Marinduque was spared.

But people of this island who have watched the news coverage of the two typhoons' aftermaths must have realized how lucky they've been so far. So far.

Wasn't it so that the government of the Philippines in 2001 and 2004 commissioned the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to conduct surveys (the latter one costing P 20-million) to provide a scientific assessment of mining-related environmental issues in Marinduque? The USGS then reported how four earth dams, the Maguila-guila, Bol River Dam and the Upper and Lower Makulapnit Dams could, because of their structural flaws, with strong typhoon or unusually heavy rains, release mine wastes in our downstream villages again.

Addressing that problem would involve hundreds of millions of pesos, at least, yes, but poor, controlled, largely unempowered Marinduque, once the site of the biggest tropical mining concern in Asia and the Pacific region, was perhaps considered so politically insignificant, that those studies were apparently allowed to just sleep in the floorboards of the national government offices concerned.

But, but, the dangers of the current situation of the Mogpog River, particularly in the vicinity of Bocboc and other downstream villages where residents are faced with the perennial problem of flooding are once more, dawning upon the villagers' consciousness again.

What if the next typhoon hits the island and dumps unusually heavy rains in just a few hours or so, enough to bring those dams and the mine wastes crashing down? We've been lucky for more than 15 years now since the mining company abandoned the dams of that mine site closed down after the 1996 mine spill.

PENRO (Querijero), talks about existing rain gauges in the most vulnerable areas and an early warning system so the people could evacuate to higher ground;

DPWH (ADE David), asks what appropriate flood control structure to construct with a measly budget since the appropriate flood control project in the area would involve hundreds of millions of pesos; he asks those concerned to consider relocating the residents in the affected low-lying areas just a little farther up in the same villages and spend the money on these things if only to ensure that lives are protected.

PENRO talks about the main source of sedimentation being an area of some 24 hectares of overburden that's from 5 to 25 meters thick that must be addressed, possibly by designing a slope erosion control system, he said, lest any kind of dredging would be rendered useless.

Some villagers see their relocation as a workable thing for as long as national agencies of government will really come into the picture to lend their helping hand, and they'll talk about it, think about it.

In the meantime, there's a new weather disturbance, a low pressure area, monitored 660 kilometers east of Visayas and could either dissipate or strengthen into a tropical depression in the next few days, said the weather bureau.

The brewing storm, hopefully will not be as violent when that morning breaks, but what about the next one or the one after that? The 19th, 20th or 21st storm... or next year's climate change-caused unpredictable weather disturbances?

'Let me see what spring is like on Jupiter and Mars...'

2011-10-03T13:38:00.005+08:00

Dear Eli,

On October 3, Jupiter and Mars will square off with each other, creating a burst of energy that will shower down on you! When Jupiter is involved, you can pretty much count on something good coming your way. However, its alignment with Mars isn't quite as friendly as it could be, so there are also a couple pitfalls to beware of.

Mars is dynamic with a can-do spirit, while Jupiter is supremely confident. This can lead to a tendency to over-promise and overdo, yet still under-deliver. Jupiter also has a tendency to be a bit self-righteous and idealistic, and when paired with Mars' aggression, you could soon be ready to mount your own crusades. Slow down, take a deep breath, and make sure whatever you're fighting for is really worth all this.

On the flip side, that can-do spirit and confidence are exactly what you need to solve some major problems, or to make important strides forward with whatever project you're working on. You'll feel resourceful and full of vitality, and nothing will seem too big for you to tackle and conquer! Remember to temper your overconfidence with a dose of reality, and you really will be able to accomplish just about anything you put your mind to.

The effect Mars and Jupiter will have on the general ambiance is impressive, but how are they affecting you individually? As the planets move across the cosmos, their influences change, allowing you to grow and develop. Learn more about how all of the planets shape your continuing development with a free preview of the Planetary Influence Reading.

Sincerely,

http://www.astrology.com

Gasan cultural nerve-center

2011-09-30T13:33:00.014+08:00

Priding itself as the island-province’s cultural nerve-center with its old and newly-created festivals inspired by indigenous arts and culture that involves the entire populace, Gasenos have preserved their identity and a culture with highly religious overtones.

“Gasang-Gasang Festival” in Easter and “Kalesayahan” in August are just two of these elaborate festivals. Unique versions of the “Putong” ritual and the “Kalutang” a native band using only wooden percussion instruments are ubiquitous in any type of celebration.

Gasan has its remarkable share of scenic attractions. Among the conspicuous Tres Reyes Islands, Gaspar is a favorite place for picnicking and swimming with its crushed coral beach and ever-changing configuration.

It has a reputation of having attracted pioneers in archaeological excavations in the Philippines such as the French naturalist, Alfred Marche in the 19th century followed by others including Dr. Robert Fox in the 1960s.

Gasan’s reputation as the cleanest municipality has remained unchallenged on the island and in the entire region. Recently, its noteworthy tourism practices have also gained recognition with a corresponding award given to it.

The life-cycle of butterflies, hundreds of species actually hosted by the island-province, could be viewed and their by-products bought in the town’s butterfly breeding farms that have made Marinduque a major butterfly exporter.

The more adventurous visitors take an hour of trekking to Talao Caves in Barangay Tiguion to experience the multi-storey or wide open chambers and at times grueling passageways where untouched and massive crystalline formations are just there for all to see.

For some, a trek to the hills and the welcome smile of farmers as they go about their daily routine but taking time out to engage in pleasantries with visitors, could be a memorable experience.

Worldwide Photo Walk starts at Kusina sa Plaza

2011-09-30T10:14:00.004+08:00

All is set for Walk Organizer Dan P's 'Scott Kelby Annual Worldwide Photowalk' in Boac, Marinduque where local and visiting amateur and professional photographers get together to shoot the many sights in this historic town.

Participants will submit their single best shot from the local Walk. The winner will receive Scott Kelby’s latest bestselling book — Light It, Shoot It, Retouch It — and will also be in the running for the Grand Prize, the prizes of which continue to mount!

Venue for the basic photography talks and orientation will be conducted at Kusina sa Plaza in Boac (shown in photo). Few free slots are still available, click here.

Activity starts tomorrow, Oct 1, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Take that Walk!

In Buenavista, Marinduque, there's something for everyone

2011-09-28T16:11:00.012+08:00

Buenavista is nestled at the foot of Malindig Volcano which rises up to 1,157 meters the highest peak on the island. At its peak, a mossy forest grows and a variety of ferns and wild orchids. In the volcano’s foothills are areas where rare species of birds, deer, boar, wildcats and monkeys survive.

A cove in Barangay Yook is frequented these days by picnickers who care about getting even closer to nature by watching, feeling and listening to the waves as they smash against the rocks. Residents have made improvements in a choice spot by building a gazebo for visitors, one that rests just above the water that could be reached through a bamboo walkway.

Marinduque Hot Spring Resort in Barangay Malbog has swimming pools, private enclaves and cottages. Further away in the same village is the Malbog Sulfur Hot Spring frequented by bathers for its therapeutic value and as cure for skin ailments.

The Lourdes Grotto, in Sitio Sapinit, Barangay Bagtingon can be reached through a kilometer inland road from the highway. The Grotto rests in an elevation of around 150 meters so one must climb a cemented trail of some 250 steps.

Panorama of the southwestern portion of Marinduque and the majestic Malindig Volcano is your reward.

Bulusukan Falls in Barangay Bagtingon involves a 40-minute trek through a river that starts from it at the lower slopes of the mountain range that provides a steady supply of mineral spring waters from the uphill timberland zone. It is the largest natural habitat of some 300 endemic species of butterflies.

The luxurious 6-star Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa is, of course, located near the southernmost portion of this town.

Ian Sotto and Elorde delos Santos' class recently held their reunion at the Yook Cove and simply enjoyed every minute of it.

All Yook cove photos here courtesy of Ian Sotto

Rainy days and Mondays

2011-09-26T17:04:00.004+08:00

Rainy, stormy, gloomy Monday so enticing to just stay home and play with the dogs, but decided to go to town nonetheless. Marinduque's coastal waters are rough brought about by tropical storm "Pedring" located East Northeast of Virac, Catanduanes.

So this type of weather will probably prevail during the next fews days. Jeepneys were not full, the commuters as sleepy as I was, it seemed. I was only perked up finding this sign in front of me...

RESERVED SEAT FOR PWD.

Ah so that's why the lady passenger made sure she left it vacant pala before dozing off.

Hello World, this is Mystical Marinduque...

2011-09-24T14:14:00.006+08:00

bp1 from DC Pixel on Vimeo.

This bittersweet slideshow is by photo-hobbyist Dan Pagulayan, one that, he says, embodies his sentiments about Marinduque.

By the way, Dan P recently got an iPad2 from KLM so far as one of top 3 photographers in connection with said airline's recent photographic competition. Top two winners will travel to the Netherlands for a special photographic assignment.

Amoingon beach cleanup

2011-09-23T12:18:00.012+08:00

Got up late this morning and sluggishly headed for the beach in front of my house. Surprised to find some fishermen and their wives busy clearing, cleaning the beach even with walis tingting, broomsticks, removing trash and debris swept ashore by the sometimes violent habagat, southwest monsoon.

What's going on, I asked. There was a request from the mayor coursed through the punong barangay, for us fishermen to conduct a beach cleanup, Ruel, one of them said. But not just us, said another one, earlier this morning grade schoolers from Amoingon Elementary School did their share in the areas nearby. Ah baga?, sheepishly, I said.

It's just amazing to learn how with little effort from town leaders, people could be mobilized to spend an hour or so taking part in what apparently is a global effort to clean the world's beaches and waterways. That, somehow, would probably also change the behaviors that allow trash and debris to reach the shores.

So yes, the 2011 International Coastal Cleanup has also reached the coastal village of Amoingon and other Marinduque beaches. The idea pala was started by Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup 25 years ago and has become the world's largest volunteer effort for ocean health.

But unlike the way they do it elsewhere in the world where every item found is recorded and reported to provide a clear picture of the weight of trash from the shores and other bodies of water, here they're just piled up and, burned. We still have a long way to go on the island of Marinduque in the area of waste segregation and disposal, you see...

Nevertheless, everyone enjoyed the morning's exercise that made them one, in a spirit of camaraderie on behalf of the oceans and the seas, with the millions of volunteers from all over the world who did the same thing in their locations.

Ways to carry a queenly leadah

2011-09-22T15:41:00.009+08:00

Queen Manarangi carried on a Paata courtesy of ginasaitutakidesire.com

Queen Elizabeth I carried in Procession by Robert Peake courtesy of arts-prints-on-demand.com

Queen Maya carried on a litter en route to Delhi from dhammaweb.net

The Inca Queen carried over Cusco's squares courtesy of lasochres.se

Queen Nana Sika carried in a Palanquin courtesy of Kay Morris, myspace.com

Governor Carmencita of Marinduque carried in a rattan chair.

Pnoy's role; DBM's role on power shortages in SPUG areas

2011-09-20T16:42:00.001+08:00

PNOY DIRECTS P1.62-B RELEASE TO NPC-SPUG TO AVERT POWER SHORTAGE IN ISLANDS;
ABAD: GOV’T PREPARING NEXT STEPS FOR STABLE, AFFORDABLE POWER IN REMOTE AREAS

Upon instruction of President Benigno S. Aquino III, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P1.62 billion to the National Power Corporation (NPC) to prevent imminent power shortages in far-flung areas across the country.

“The P1.62 billion was immediately released by the government to urgently address the NPC’s capability to provide stable power supply in off-grid areas, some of which have already experienced sporadic brownouts due to fuel supply constraints,” Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad said.

“Furthermore, the government is now preparing for its next steps in ensuring stable and affordable power supply to remote areas,” he said. He notes that a fund release for the sitio electrification project is now being processed.

Of the P1.62 billion, P1.32 billion will be used to address the fuel requirements of NPC’s Small Power Utilities Group (SPUG); P162.5 million, which is half of the NPC’s capital expenditure for 2011, for the purchase of spares for SPUG plants; and P140 million for the lease of generator sets for SPUG areas. The release has been charged against the Malampaya Fund.

A total of P3.6 billion has been released for NPC-SPUG this year, to be offset against the claims of NPC for reimbursement of its advances in the preservation and maintenance of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP).

In February, P2 billion was released for the fuel requirements of NPC-SPUG. NPC has claimed for the reimbursement of its advances incurred in the preservation of the BNPP starting 1986 amounting to P4.37 billion as of December 2010.

Chateau du Mer at twilight time. Lights still lit.

SPUG is the missionary electrification arm of NPC that operates 317 generating units with total rated capacity of 147.675 MW in 86 areas. This nationwide operation serves 78 island grids and 8 isolated grids catering 3,330 barangays in 192 municipalities across the country.

(Media Release from dbm.gov.ph website 9/02/11)

NPC's Tampinco gives go-signal for Marinduque power supply

2011-09-19T15:02:00.009+08:00

With the DBM’s release of P 1.62 billion charged against the Malampaya fund to the National Power Corporation aimed at preventing imminent electricity shortages in far-flung SPUG areas, NPC president Froilan Tampinco has given the go-signal for the supply of bunker fuel for Marinduque’s power barge 120. This was the result of renewed talks made by Cong. Allan Velasco with the NPC president last week.

"NPC's target date for new bunker fuel delivery is on or before Sept. 23", Velasco said. "The NPC has likewise given the approval to extend the contract on a month-to-month basis for a 2MW genset that expired on Sept. 13."

It will be recalled that Boac DPP senior engineer, Hernan Orilla earlier announced that massive brownouts in Marinduque will occur if no bunker fuel is delivered ‘prior to its run-out date on September 14’ with only Boac DPP operating on just 2MW capacity. Orilla also stated that delivery by winning bidder of bunker fuel for PB120 could, likewise, not be undertaken ‘without an approved supplemental budget from the Congress’.

DBM Secretary Florencio Abad however had said in an earlier statement pertaining to the Malamapaya fund that the annual revenue inflow in the form of proceeds from the Malampaya project is really accounted for as part of the yearly revenue program supporting the budget proposal submitted to Congress.

On the newly released budget, Tampinco said that the amount would be used by NPC for SPUG operations up to the end of the year. About P 1.3 billion would be used for the requirements of the SPUG facilities in various areas in the country, he said, and the balance would be used to purchase ‘critical spare parts and other requirements of our generation sets’.

The colors of sunrise in Boac

2011-09-19T10:46:00.006+08:00

Titled 'Sunrise in Boac', this photograph taken by Dan Pagulayan was posted in this blogsite in April 2010. It has found its way into the pages of Lonely Planet magazine and remains my favorite photo with the Boac Cathedral as subject.

The said magazine, published under license from BBC Magazines, a division of BBC Worldwide Ltd. then featured an article, Journey to the Heart of the Philippines by Dan Pagulayan and this blogger on its February 2011 issue.

Dan is Walk Organizer for the first Scott Kelby Annual Worldwide Photo Walk in Boac scheduled on October 1. This Photowalk hopes to gather local amateur and professional photographers to shoot photos of this historic town as part of the global photofest that started four years ago.

From among a list of selected photographers, Dan was also included in the shortlist of 6 finalists for an all-expense paid trip to the Netherlands for a photography assignment sponsored by KLM for Lonely Planet.

There is no registration fee for the Worldwide Photowalk in Boac. Assembly at Kusina sa Plaza, Oct. 1, 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Laying the Foundation for Good Governance and Development

2011-09-17T14:25:00.001+08:00

Congressman Allan Velasco addressing the barangay officials during the mass graduation.

First things first

Twenty years ago, the Local Government Code of the Philippines was passed to serve as a mechanism that laid the groundwork for empowering local governments, especially barangays. It has been used by political leaders to transform their backward LGUs into dynamic and empowered local communities. The Code is said to have radically transformed the very nature of the country’s political system.

Mayor Percival Morales (Sta. Cruz), Cong. Allan Velasco, Vice-Gov. Antonio Uy, Vice-Mayor Ishmael Lim (Sta. Cruz)

However, many local governments including this island-province, the region's poorest, continue to stay behind the line of success and progress, because there is still, largely a lack of understanding on the roles and functions of local leaders particularly in the barangay level, more so with the earlier election of new barangay officials.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) response to this is the holding of an orientation seminar titled, Laying the Foundation for Good Governance and Development.

This meant imparting the basics of barangay governance, foundation on local legislation, development planning, barangay finance and budgeting, and community mobilization that in the end are expected to strengthen barangay partnerships with other local government units, national agencies and civil society orgs for efficient and effective barangay governance system in the countryside.

Mayor Roberto Madla (Boac) with DILG Provincial Director, Ma. Victoria J. Del Rosario at the orientation seminar in Boac

These seminars were first conducted by DILG Mimaropa Regional IVB in Baguio City for Marinduque’s punong barangays and Sangguniang Kabataan leaders participated in by 150 out of Marinduque’s 218 barangays.

The DILG Marinduque office under the guidance of Provincial Director Ma. Victoria J. Del Rosario, then organized similar seminars the past few months for newly elected barangay officials in the six municipalities. They are aimed to facilitate improvements in the ways barangays are run, and the formulation by said barangays of their own development agenda.

Random photos of the Barangay Newly Elected Officials Orientation Seminars in Marinduque's six municipalities of Boac, Buenavista, Gasan, Mogpog, Sta. Cruz and Torrijos

Sen. Aquilino Pimentel is the acknowledged Father of Local Autonomy and principal author of the Code. He was quoted to have said recently with the launching of a book, “The Local Government Code Revisited 2007”, thus:

“In sum, through the integration of local autonomy in our legal and political system, the passage of the Code may be likened to the splitting of the atom - in that it unleashes the forces of development with such tremendous impact that not only the privileged, but the masses as well, may benefit from the fruits of modernization in this lifetime.”

The historic Boac Cathedral (Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception)

2011-09-15T14:31:00.018+08:00

Fray Estevan Ortiz, a Franciscan missionary planted the first cross on Marinduque island in 1579. A year later, the first visita, Monserrat de Marinduque (now Boac), was established with Fray Alonzo Banol as its minister.

In 1613 the Franciscans ceded the administration of the island to the Archbishop of Manila, Miguel Garcia Serrano who then entrusted the island to the Society of Jesus. The Jesuits assumed the spiritual administration of the island in 1621.

By 1756 the church was laid out facing east with its rear overlooking the lower town, called labak by the natives. It was to be an enduring structure for worship and for serving as a refuge for the townspeople during piratical attacks rampant in in that era.

Oral tradition survives up to the present day as to how Moro pirates in those days frequently invaded the shores of Boac through the mouth of the river in Brgy. Laylay. The townspeople would take refuge in the fortress of the cathedral and fervently pray for the intercession of their patroness, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception to save them from the attack.

In one particular attack, the raiders seemed to have persisted, killing many native defenders, so the story goes, when suddenly a powerful storm came. At that point the people saw a glowing apparition of the Lady with arms outstretched standing atop the fortress wall on the southern side of the church. She was in the act of driving away the intruders. The amazing apparition drove away the Moros who fled in their sailboats.

This episode, according to the story inspired the creation of a new name for the Lady as Birhen ng Biglang Awa.

The cathedral was dedicated to her, the 'Mother of Instant Mercy', (Pronto Socorro), in 1792. A marker on the church's front wall declares thus: "naniniwala ang mga tao na siya ang nagligtas sa pagsalakay ng mga moro noong ika-18 dantaon."

Her feast day falls on May 10. A canonical coronation of this miraculous object of veneration took place in Boac in 1958 to mark the 100th anniversary of that feast day. It was attended by thousands of pilgrims from the nearby provinces in southern Luzon and Bicol.

Photograph showing the interior of the old Cathedral. Lower photo courtesy of dontrivino.com shows how it looks today.

When the Americans landed on the shores of Laylay on April 25, 1900, to control the island initially with a battalion of the 29th U.S. Volunteer infantry, they proceeded to Boac and set up their quarter in the citadel-like Boac Cathedral. They effectively took possession of the church throughout their pacification campaign on the island.

This old photo shows mass being celebrated. But closer look reveals that the devotees are sitting on the floor, said to be made of hardwood then.

Lower photo from dontrivino.com shows the church pews and ceramic tiles today.

With the creation of the Diocese of Lipa in Batangas on April 10, 1910, the island of Marinduque was attached thereto as a suffragan diocese. In 1950 the Diocese of Lucena was created with the ecclesiastical province of Marinduque under its supervision.

Then, by virtue of an Apostolic Bull issued by Pope Paul VI on April 2, 1977, the Diocese of Boac was created. It was carried into effect on May 10, 1978 with Bishop Rafael M. Lim, D.D. of Boac installed as the first Bishop of Boac.

As of Dec. 31, 2008, the Boac Diocese recorded 193,585 baptized Catholics or 84% of the population of 229,636 (2007 population). The rest are members of the other Christian denominations such as Protestants, Iglesia Filipina Independiente, Iglesia ni Kristo, and others.

Old photos showing the changing altar decorations for seasonal or religious festal events.

Thanks to Mr. Noel Cruz for the old Boac church photographs.

DTI's Tulong Asenso para sa Marindukenyo

2011-09-15T09:45:00.002+08:00

Some recipients of DTI’s Tulong Asenso para sa Marindukenyo in these photos.

Local entrepreneurs from Marinduque's six towns are availing themselves of a micro-financing program introduced and implemented by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Marinduque office.

Under this program loan amounts ranging from P 3,000.00 to P 50,000.00 are provided to qualified beneficiaries currently engaged in small livelihood industries such as production of native delicacies, sari-sari store expansion, handicrafts manufacturing, and trading of Marinduque-made products.

DTI provincial director Carlito Fabalena explains that the program is also open to new businesses with high market demand. Such loans are subjected to interest rate of 6% per annum, and are payable from three to six months depending on the gestation period. Payments are deposited to DTI Marinduque’s trust account and used as revolving fund.

Chief of Staff, Erick Abad of Cong. Velasco's Office informs that more applicants will be benefited by Tulong Asenso with additional funding from the lawmaker's PDAF.

Tulong Asenso checks are releaased by DTI to the borrowers on scheduled dates at the Office of Congressman Allan Velasco. Tulong Asenso para sa Marindukenyo is funded through Velasco’s Priority Development Assistance Fund.

Interested applicants to the program are required to fill out and submit application forms together with other requirements such as pictures, mayor’s permit, barangay certification and sketch maps.

Yesterday, 58 beneficiaries from six towns received their individual checks ranging from P. 3,000.00 to Php 50,000.00 at Cong. Velasco’s District Offices in Sta. Cruz and Boac.

Some of these beneficiaries are shown here being handed over their checks by Mike Velasco, brother of the congressman who also spoke on the latter's behalf.

Shot in the arm for NPC as Marinduque and SPUG areas are threatened by new wave of outages

2011-09-14T12:24:00.006+08:00

Repost from Philippine Daily Inquirer, Sept. 2, 2011

Napocor getting P1.6B for SPUG

By: Amy R. Remo, Philippine Daily Inquirer

National Power Corp. will receive from the government P1.6 billion to help finance the operations of small power utilities group (SPUG) in off-grid and missionary areas in the country.

At the sidelines of the Renewable Energy Leadership Roundtable on Thursday, Napocor president Froilan A. Tampinco said the power firm received last week the approval for the additional SPUG funding, which would come from the royalties paid for the Malampaya natural gas field.

“We got another shot in the arm, so to speak, from the government,” Tampico said, adding that the amount would be used by Napocor for the SPUG’s operations up to the end of the year.

Of the P1.6 billion, Tampinco said about P1.3 billion would be used for the fuel requirements of the SPUG facilities in various remote areas in the country. The balance will be used to purchase “critical spare parts and other requirements of our generation sets.”

According to Tampinco, the amount was on top of the P2 billion it received earlier from the government, which also came from the Malampaya funds.

Both the P1.6 billion and P2 billion represent reimbursements of the advances made by Napocor for the preservation of the mothballed 620-megawatt Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP).

Just last week, Napocor filed a petition with the Energy Regulatory Commission for an additional P4.3 billion in fees to enable its SPUG to continue operations, as well as prevent a fuel shortage and the consequent shutdown of power facilities.

Pulang Lupa: Blog Tribute to Curt and Dalia Shepard

2011-09-09T11:22:00.009+08:00

Philippine-American War 1900-1901. The Battle of Pulang Lupa is commemorated in Marinduque on Sept. 13 of every year.

Video with historical photos and footages on the commemoration of the Battle of Pulang Lupa in Marinduque. "Awit sa Pulang Lupa" written and composed by this blogger,and performed by the Teatro Balangaw Ensemble and the Marinduque Provincial Capitol Choir, 2007.

Reliving Pulang Lupa Video

First-hand accounts of the battle and other historical documents on Marinduque could be found in www.ulongbeach.com managed by Curt Shepard, that this blogger considers one of the most important sites on Marinduque history.

This blog is a tribute to Curt and his wife Dalia. Our correspondence started in 2006. Excerpts from an earlier email exchange are reproduced below, as well as the lyrics of Awit sa Pulang Lupa:

“Eli,

…I was attracted to your site because of your interest in bringing the history of Marinduque to the people. My interest started when neither my wife nor her family could tell me about your independence day. I thought I had asked a simple question: Do you celebrate your independence from Spain or the United States? I found out it was not a simple question to answer after all. I found several sites here in the states that argue this point as well as the date of June 12 and July 4th. Any way this started my education of the history of Marinduque as well as the Philippines. My hope is that the children don't forget or not have a chance to learn.

"Hopefully you can use some of the information on my website to encourage your new dance drama.

"Curt & Dalia" (Sept. 2, 2006)

“Curt and Dalia,

“… But doing the research then I did see the strong possibility that what transpired in Samar in a town called Balangiga, a much written-about episode on American atrocities (and was made into a movie, "Sunugin ang Samar" in the 70s), during that war must have also happened in Marinduque. I found out about the involvement of Bandholtz in Samar then. But then I had no source, no Internet here then to support this suspicion. Nevertheless I included in my play a dialogue delivered by one American soldier ordering his men "to turn this island into a howling wilderness", a phrase used in the Samar massacre of civilians.

"Locally available historical accounts stopped at Pulang Lupa, you see. And now your website contains detailed information during the two years that followed! The accounts on the Corliss Experiment are most shocking. This must be the newest document that has surfaced here after having been buried for years in U.S. archives! It could definitely be a great subject for a painting, play, film or literary piece... but I must say I was so moved reading that account in your site!...

"Eli” (Sept. 3, 2006)

"AWIT SA PULANG LUPA"
Titik at Musika: ELI J. OBLIGACION

May isang kahapong nagdaan
Kasaysayang di malilimutan
'Sang kahapong di maiwawaksi
Diwang Makabaya'y naisilang.

May isang kahapong nagdaan
Kasaysayang di mallimutan
May kahapong di maitatanggi
Ang kahulugan ay Tagumpay ng Lahi.

Sa Pulang Lupa, kawal na bayani
Gubat ay tinahak ng buong sidhi
Ang mahal sa buhay, inalo't iniwan
Nang ipagtanggol ang ating bayan.

Dito na namuno si Kapitan Abad
Kapitang namuno ng buong lakas
At naging kasama si Kang Alapaap
Siya na mapusok at puso'y marahas.

Isang madaling araw
Sa buwan ng Setyembre
Sinagupa nila ang kaaway
Sa gitna ng kabundukan.

(Mga Hiyaw/Mga putok ng baril/riple/Mga
Tambol/Simbal)

(Marahan)
At dahan-dahang nagapi ang kaaway
Kahit kay lakas pa ng dalang armas
Ang dugo sa lupa, na di na rin mahupa
Ang nagbigay lakas sa kanilang diwa.

(Mabilis)
At pagsapit ng hapon
Naganap ang pag-urong
'Merikano'y tuluyang sumuko
Sa gerilyang pinuno.

May isang kahapong nagdaan
Kasaysayang di mallimutan
May kahapong di maitatanggi
Ang kahulugan ay Tagumpay ng Lahi.

(Koro)
Pulang Lupa ay tuluyan nang di napigil
At damdaming makabayan ay nagising
Nang di magpatuloy ang likong landas
Ng dayuhang mapang-api

(Solo):
Di ko na malilimutan sa 'king isip
Pulang Lupa ay hindi mawawaglit.

(Uulitin ang Koro hanggang sa "likong landas")

At sa oras na mangailangan ng
Lakas ng puso at tapang pa
Pulang Lupa'y bubuhayin ko!
Bubuhayin ko!
Bubuhayin ko!

MARINDUQUE: Journey to the Center of the Philippines

2011-09-08T14:59:00.001+08:00

Marinduque has been identified in recent years as the geodetic center of the Philippines, being the site of Datum Station Balanacan, the origin of Luzon Datum of 1911, mother of all datums in the country. The root of various expressions of Tagalog culture, traditions, indigenous arts, including the language that originated here and evolved into today's modern national forms, could be found in Marinduque.

In its long and colorful history, this island-province that measures 959 sq.km. became part of Batangas, Mindoro, and Tayabas (now Quezon). By the 1920s an act separating Marinduque from Tayabas laid the basis for the island-province's existence as a separate province, celebrated on February 21st as "Araw ng Marinduque".

Marinduque is known for the colorful Lenten pageant, Moriones Festival, and for the fierce patriotism displayed by the revolutionary soldiers during the Philippine-American War in the Battle of Pulang Lupa and Battle of Paye, both commemorated annually.

Coconut production and fishing remain as Marinduque's major industries. Livestock and poultry continue to be raised by local farmers alongside production of rice and crops like bananas, rootcrops and mangoes. In support of its tourism industry new entrepreneurial products like buntal handlooms, arrowroot flour and cookies, diverse softwood items, nito vine wares, virgin coconut-oil, fish paste and butterfly by-products are steadily finding their way into the export market.

Tourism

Today, the development of Marinduque and its outlying islands, as a major tourist destination in south Luzon is being pursued by the local government units and the private sector. CNN International has named Marinduque as a new tourism hotspot in Asia, with the launching of Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa, alongside eco-tourism development efforts undertaken by the local governments. International tourism watchers like The Western Australian and Elle Canada listed Marinduque on the No. 2 spot as "one of world’s top islands” in January this year, 2011.

Airport rehabilitation, ports improvement and better road infrastructure are now being pursued vigorously. Marinduque is classified as a 4th Class province, trailing behind the other MIMAROPA (acronym for Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan), regional group of island-provinces in terms of poverty incidence.

Marinduque has a population of 229,636 (as of August 1, 2007), inhabiting six municipalities, namely, Boac, the capital, Buenavista, Gasan, Mogpog, Sta. Cruz and Torrijos.

Queen of Marinduque

2011-09-07T14:42:00.005+08:00

"Carrion said the criticisms against his administration are only caused by politics and he blamed Rep. Carmencita Reyes for them. Her family, who has ruled Marinduque for four decades, does not want anybody else to run the province. But what have they done for the province during all those years? he asked rhetorically. Marinduque is still a fourth-class province.

“Congresswoman Reyes calls herself the ‘Queen of Marinduque,’” he said..." (As I See It, Neal Cruz, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Jan. 22, 2008)

“…Today, Longinus’ mock-decapitation, the most important feature of the tradition in Boac, no longer takes place on Easter Sunday following the morning mass, but rather in the context of a Saturday-night passion play or sinakulo. This shift places his death chronologically before the risen Christ appears, a somewhat jarring occurrence inasmuch as the other events associated with the passion of Christ are played out in a sequence timed to replicate their actual occurrence in historical time.

"This move was spearheaded by the current Provincial Governor, Carmencita Reyes, who as one of Imelda Marcos’ original inner circle of so-called “Blue Ladies” during the Marcos era, is known for her strong personality and desire to shape the island’s traditions in ways that she feels best serves the island’s long-term strategic, economic, and cultural interests.

"Integrating a mock-execution into the final evening sinakulo may have enhanced its dramatic effectiveness, but it has also contributed to the radical transformation of a folk tradition by knocking it off its moorings." (Beheading Longinus in the ‘Heart of the Philippines’: Spirituality, Theatre, Community, and Politics in Marinduque’s Moriones Festival” By William Peterson , Monash University, 2005).

Mara Unduk Theme Song

2011-09-06T14:38:00.007+08:00

The IFI Vocal Ensemble

It was the theme song of Mara Unduk. "Marinduque Akin Ka", first sang as a duet by Ian Venida (he later joined "Miss Saigon"), and a boy soprano from Marinduque National High School whose name escapes me now, was composed by this blogger in 1992.

A couple of years ago, it was made the contest piece for Hapit Himigan, a choral competition organized by the provincial capitol and was participated in by the IFI Vocal Ensemble of the Parish of St. Joseph (Gasan), Reunited Choir of the Marinduque National High School-Boac North District (Boac), Live Echoes Choir of St. Mary's College of Marinduque (Boac), Mogpog Municipal Chorale (Mogpog) and TORMEA Choir (Torijos).

IFI Vocal Ensemble won the said contest. Shown in this video is one of their performances in Gasan after winning the competition. Members of the choir are students, government employees, teachers, stevedores and tambays, according to musical director Mark Del Monte Reginio.

The first song is Marinduque Akin Ka, followed by Reginio's own composition, the happy song, Tayo na sa Marinduque.

Video by markjoebertmark.

"Marinduque Akin Ka"
Titik at Musika: Eli J. Obligacion

Isang paraiso sa gitna ng dagat
Ay muling nabuhay
Sa aking pangarap ngayon
Kahapo'y di mawaglit sa aking isip
Ngayo'y buhay ka't di na panaginip.

Marinduque akin ka
Puso mo'y puso ko
Awit mo'y awit ko di ba
At ngayo'y magkayakap
ang ating damdami'y iisa.

Isang paraiso, ilaw sa karimlan
Batis ng pag-asa
Bayan ma'y sadlak sa dusa
Kahapon mo'y may pait, luha at sakit
Ngayo'y nagising diwa'y nagupiling.

Marinduque gising na/akin ka
Puso mo'y puso ko
Awit mo'y awit ko di ba/di baga
At ngayo'y magkayakap
Ang ating damdami'y iisa.

(Repeat Koro)

Ang ating damdami'y iisa
Marinduque akin ka.

Cong. Allan Velasco's Victory Upheld

2011-09-05T11:28:00.005+08:00

Reposted from Philstar.com

HRET upholds victory of Marinduque lawmaker

By Edu Punay The Philippine Star, Updated September 03, 2011 12:00 AM

MANILA, Philippines - The House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal (HRET) has upheld the election last year of Rep. Lord Allan Jay Velasco of the lone district of Marinduque province.

In a decision issued last Aug. 11, the HRET junked the electoral protest filed by losing congressional candidate Edmundo Reyes II against Velasco after conducting revision and appreciation of the ballots in 25 percent of the pilot protested precincts.

The tribunal, which resolves protests in the congressional polls, ruled that Velasco won over Reyes by 4,146 votes, or 39 more votes from the original margin of votes declared by the Commission on Elections.

“There was no testimony from any member of the Board of Election Inspectors of the clustered precincts nor from any watcher or voter to prop up the claim of fraud and irregularities,” the HRET said.

Velasco was proclaimed winner in Marinduque’s lone congressional seat during the May 10, 2010 elections after he garnered a total of 52,407 votes as against Reyes’ 48,300 votes.

Under HRET rules, if there is no reasonable recovery from the pilot protested precincts in favor of the protestant (Reyes), the tribunal can already dismiss the protest.

The tribunal said Reyes failed to show that the officially proclaimed election results in favor of Velasco would be substantially affected if the proceedings on the remaining contested precincts were to be continued.

It ruled out allegations of fraud, terrorism, vote buying and other irregularities alleged by Reyes in his protest.

The HRET said Reyes relied solely on the certificate of canvass and the statement of votes and the ballots to assail the integrity of the election returns.

It added that the revision of ballots failed to show any irregularity or discrepancy that would alter the results of the congressional election.