My take on One Island Region

My take on One Island Region

The game of Split and Mend

The Negros island is in toil of the game of being split and mend, which has been ongoing for centuries. This is the result of two power thirst enclaves (Cebu and IloIlo) trying to get as much resources as possible. They have used so many reasons just to split the island and its people, from language to politics to affinity and even money.

The revival

Right after the EDSA revolution, former Negros Occidental Governor Bitay Lacson and former Negros Oriental Governor Emilio Macias (God Bless his Soul), started to talk about uniting Negros. This was continually advocated by their successors former Negros Occidental Governor Rafael Coscolluella and former Negros Oriental Governor George Arnaiz (this guy is now a congressman). Then a long silence.

The Long Silence

Since 1992 there was a long silence because many from IloIlo and Cebu opposed to the idea of Negros just being one region(remember the game of split and mend). This time the argument was about "too much politics", "this is not the right time", "we are wasting so much money".

I am like okay, arent they ashamed of too much graft going on and the money graft wastes, over something that is meaningful to the island dwellers? Okay sure.

Though the silence seems like forever. This dream has always been at the back of the mind of Negrenses.

The Dream

Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, through several Governors since 1992 have made several projects possible where the two provinces are integrated. Anti-GMO practices, Fisheries(coalition of Cauayan, Sipalay City, Hinobaan, Basay, and Bayawan City in the protection of marine resources which directly benefit the small fisherfolks), agriculture, Emergency response, Transport, environmental protection and strategies, tourism, etc. However these practices cannot move forward since both parties report to two seperate bodies that discusses and approve essential developments for the island.

2012 when formal talks about the reunification and creation of Negros Island Region started to roll. This was of course just like 20 years before it, again was opposed. This time all cards that was previously used were recycled.

The Issues

Language Barrier

Seriously? Anyone who says that language of cebuano speaking and hiligaynon speaking would make it difficult for negrenses to unite, should try to think and figure out because I know theres a lot of TUP-Visayas graduates works at MEPZ and they dont find it hard at all, there is always the room to adjust and learn. Only a feeble mind would think language is an issue.

Economy, Poverty, and Money

Businesses will always run and that's not because they run based on which region they belong, it is driven by market. The customers that feeds the pockets of their business. This is pretty basic, you dont need to be master degree holder to understand that? Common sense. You don't put up a store if nobody buys. You can ask any retailers for that. 

Now the subject about poverty, what is poverty? Essential it is just being poor. Okay poor, what makes one be called poor? According to the World Bank, poverty is a multidimensional social phenomenon, definition and causes of poverty varies by gender, age, culture, and other social and economic contexts...  In Philippines, in the Mindanao region,women said “we boil bananas for our children if food is not available. In some cases, when theDepartment of Agriculture distributes corn seeds, we cook these seeds instead of planting them.Ironically, they borrow money to acquire these seeds. The cycle of poverty continues as they areunable to pay for these loans” (Philippines 1999).

To summarize, it includes low incomes and the inability to acquire the basic goods and services necessary for survival with dignity. Poverty also encompasses low levels of health and education, poor access to clean water and sanitation, inadequate physical security, lack of voice, and insufficient capacity and opportunity to better one’s life.

How can this be measured. The DILG, DSWD, LGU's and Barangays have tools to measure the poor among its citizens, these reports are provided to the national agencies. How reliable these data's are, well I saw how a social worker work, and being a humanitarian myself, they are being monitored by UN and the World Bank, this is in line to the Philippines signatory to the Millennium Summit Declaration which talks about poverty. Now whoever wants to come up with their own twisted analysis about data just to favor their own interest, make sure you channel your arguments to the national agencies and the international body. I am saying that because there are so many who plays "all-so-knowing" everywhere especially online, yet in reality all they do is talk. My best guess is they would even try to sum up this blog post, yikes. Anyway. You know who you are and my message to you is that DILG and DSWD have their numbers made available online so you can read from there and don't rant on my page.

Budget

Budget is expected to be different for both Provinces. IRA for example, is dependent on the land area and population. So if someone would ask that the IRA for example of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental should be the same; well then you need to ask the constitutionality of that argument, because it sounds like a baby eating an adult food. Obviously they're different because the rules that stipulates the IRR for IRA treats all provinces equally was already a LAW; so if you want to change the law just for the sake of that, go ahead, ask first your local representatives to do that. I would like to see how this makes everything fare and square(shoving adult food to a poor baby's mouth). I am clearly using analogy here, so if you don't get the idea, then I don't know how were you raised as a person.

The Negros Island Region

Rappler made an initial Fast Facts about Negros Island Region.

 Now the picture above was not able to state the Municipalities and other data about poverty. For more detailed information please check: NSCB.

I wish the DILG would publish the recommendations they sent to the President so we can see the details. Maybe we can ask the DILG themselves. I will get into that, maybe to be posted on the next blog.

The Negros Island Region is basically addressing the need of both provinces in achieving resiliency, with all the Comprehensive Development Plan and Rationalize Planning System that for both provinces are harmonized and integrated.

Humanitarianism + Environmentalism = ALL of US

Why is it IMPORTANT to ADVOCATE - Humanitarianism and Environmentalism???

If you are to think about it, why would you even CARE? A lot of people does not, even though so many coastal clean up or whatever clean up happened to their lives.

Well why should you CARE?

There are two things to ponder. In my own opinion revolves to the two.

First is because whatever you eat, wear, drink, sleep on, as in literally EVERYTHING you need to live comes from the ENVIRONMENT. - Note: I will link this later to God/Allah/Creator

Second is you should probably must know by birth by now that you are HUMAN, therefore it is important to know that being human is different from acting otherwise. - Note: I will also link this later too to God/Allah/Creator

So what is this thing about human and environment fuss???

Let us see, the environment moves on without humans. Humans CANNOT move on without the environment.

The environment was all what God/Allah/Creator has made. The sun, the sky, the air, the waters, the plants, the animals, US, all part of a grand plan and we as HUMANS are supposed to be the guardian of what he created, but it looks like most of us become more of a parasite than a guardian.

A walk around Bacolod City

Well while Bacolod City is starting to improve. It never loses a chance to be creative and maintain it's clean and green plans.

Beginning of an End

More than a decade, that much time you see people come and go. That unreliable yet unmistakable truth that for all the reasons why it felt so lonely despite of - is because of seeking that gratifying lie we so called validation. Nothing felt so assuring and satisfying in fulfilling what we seek to hear.

Then it will all crash down. Not to trim thw outgrowth, but to end up in a realization that most of the shit needs to be uprooted and should not have been planted in the beginning.

We loose our sense of self respect, a great deal of dignity we thought rewarding when we give it away as an "offer". The risks are high, but who can judge a functioning adult in making that decision? Some shit hole I guess, and I participated to its journey. Damn me right?

Promises, Sacrifice, Devotion, blah blah blah. What are those words if they dont mean anything to a recepient? Ding3x, it is time to be realistic.

Always have REQUIREMENTS and not needs. Carnal fixes are better felt and appreciated when spent with an equally reciprocal soul.

All is worth it, to come into a realization. That a gesture should not be mistaken for anything close to an actual relationship. NOT WORTH IT.

It is a shame in all focal points.

Like this Redhorse, appreciation of value happens when what is holding it comes into a breaking point. The stregnth of the material is dependent on the amount of stress and mass it carries at any given rate or temperature.

Alright... here is one for the coffee time.

Well, I know its another lengthy sojourn before I added another piece here in my blog.

I went through some healing process.

I lost weight (non-covid related). This was a process too, I.F. and Ketogenic - they help big time.

So thats 225-ish to 190-ish in ten months, then went to 175-ish after 18 months.

Got pnuemonia so it went down to 160-ish. Yes, I look like I have cancer. That is when I started not to be happy about it.

Well, the weight loss process did not help me with my work then so I have to quit. My mood started to become more severe. My shrink suggest that I have to focus on my purpose. I DID NOT BUY HER ADVISE!

I know!!! I decided to be stupid and yes its painful, but yeah its a process we all have to face and conquer. That is my Mt. Everest moment.

Now, I am starting to appreciate what life can give. Time and Peace of Mind are the most valuable commodity in the Universe for me.

New Beginnings

Good Day To All.

It has been a while since the last time I posted something in this Blog. I made the sound choice not to for reasons too personal to share. Well, that is life and nothing much we can do but to brave the tides.

So I am back here in Bacolod City, like a sea turtle - always going back to where it all began.

I met new sets of friends but I always cherish the few that I always treasure.

Pandemic happened and it all brought us to a common sense of family and being. That the important things that matters should never to be decided over little temporary things.

I am truly grateful to all who became part of my life and I apologize to those who I have hurt.

Anyway, here is to life and happiness.

FYI: I will figure out how to put photo's in here.

> finally

Completing the 81 List - Final Province: Dinagat Islands

Completing the 81 List - Final Province: Dinagat Islands

Completing the 81 visited provinces took me many years. Due to schedule and priorities, I was able to do it by mixing my travels with my regular or irregular work. 

Anyway, my girlfriend and I arrived in Surigao City after spending time with family for the holidays (Christmas and New Years).

We booked at Bohol Travellers Inn at the nearest corner of Borromeo and San Nicolas Streets. We took the 12 hour space rent for the needed rest and shower. Im from Negros Occidental and shes from Misamis Oriental, we need that little pampering. Space is affordable and no hot/cold bath. For P599.00 uiu got this room for 12 hours.

Ok, wake up early for the boat ride at Pier Dos, so not mistook it with the expensive looking port.

Pier Dos

Travel time will take you 1 up to 1.5 hours. P100.00 fare.

Habal2 is P10 within Poblacion, best to talk to locals just do not be too gullible. Place is known to be safe, well everybody knows everybody.

We went to DOT and asked for any within the range day tour. Took a while for them to arrive.

Provincial Toru Guide Mark Acain . Helpful

With Dinagat Toursim Officer Danilo C. Bulabos

People are generally peaceful and food is inexpensive.

Tip for backpackers: buy seafood at the market, have it grilled at the nearby grill and go, then go to the nearest Silogan (frid rice and egg) - saves you up from cleaning plates. Hahahaha

Tapsilog is P50 as we speak
Special Goto is P40.

1500 - 2000 boat improvise roofing max 4 person look for others who wants to tag along. This is just around Basilisa.

If you need a bigger boat and more places to go to that can easily be transact through the tourism office. Tip: If you plan ahead, have it posted as an event so you can find a tag along buddies to leasen the financial burden of boat rentals.

Enjoy people.

With my Pinalangga...

Surigao Del Sur - Surigao Del SOAR and Surigao Del SURF

Surigao Del Sur - Surigao Del SOAR and Surigao Del SURF

Surigao Del Sur is a quaint province located at the eastern seaboard of Mindanao Island. This province have all it takes to jump as another Tourism Hot-spot. The coastline is bound with Ridge to Reef wonders from surfing sites, to natural pools at the sea, to majestic waterfalls, forest laden mountains, and scenic views.

An example below is a Heritage House at the Municipality of Lanuza.

Below is the Scenic View of Lanuza Bay.

Below is Cagwait Beach, Municipality of Cagwait.



A Beautiful Smile reminds me of Home... From Municipality of Bayabas



Below is Cabugo Cove, Municipality of Bayabas


Below are just some of the Islets of Brgy Britania, Municipality of San Agustin
 

I will Update more Soon.

SDS is:

Sun, Dive, and Swim

Sip, Dine, and Splurge

Sleep, Dream, and Sunrise

Surf, Drift, and Skim

More to Come from Surigao Del SOAR...

Surigao Del Sur Can be reached through Air and Land.

Below are Recommended Tranportation Options

Air: 45 minute flight from Cebu-Mactan International Airport

Air Flight Frequency: 3 Times a Week, Monday/Wednesday/Friday

Airline Company: Cebu Pacific Air

Land: Bachelor (Vallacar Transit), Van for Hirete: Land Transportation is available to all Major Cities in Mindanao.

Jogging Jogging pag may time

Jogging Jogging pag may time

I have an occasional need to "jog", or so I thought. Here in Tandag City, the roads are recently asphalted. I would like to say, that the city is starting to get neat. That would be good for the coffers because the asphalt was an over lay on the concrete high-way. 

Now going back to the jogging, I cannot help but always look on the road side as the sea is just way within 30-50 meters from the road. From my place to Surigao Del Sur State University, it is about 5.2 kilometers from my place. Since its been a while since my last "jog", Most of the time I am walking. I am like, okay this should improve.

Let me contemplate for now as I am munching my breakfast thinking, how ironic, that as much as I would love to exercise, My Love for Good Food is always a hurdle!!!

Enjoy the Photo's. I will post some soon for Surigao Del Sur.

The Mindanao Adventure

The Mindanao Adventure

I will engage in a mission in Mindanao Island. Specifically to the area that face the Pacific Ocean and the brunt of our ever changing climate.

New adventure for Hijo, and this is moving towards reaching out and make a difference.

Travelling from Negros Occidental to Manila, then to Davao City then Tagum City to Tandag City, Surigao Del Sur last March 2015 reminds me of good old days jaunts and journeys. Looking to the road going to Surigao del Sur at the back of my mind I am saying, this Province is on the right track. Roads are very essential to the logistical and economic activities of any location.

Anyway, I am very excited for the fact that this is a budding province where great potentials can happen, laidback yet willing to move forward (much like home Negros). We can only guess as when would this happen, it would really depend on what kind of development the people of Surigao Del Sur would want. We can all hope for a climate resilient options. As to what are those, we will be finding that out.

I am here to work in partnership with the Local Government in building resiliency. Building Resiliency- BIG WORDS!!! This is a big task, my stay here will be in four years(hopefully) and many things can happen in four years, with the constant threat from our ever changing climate and the challenges of inclusive growth and the external pressures of the world economy, this province would need all necessary effort and cooperation from within to keep up and definitely move as resilient.

Anyway, just enjoy the photo's of Surigao Del Sur below. I hope this would help my fellow bloggers and you my audience to go here and pay this blessed province a visit.

Surfing along Tandag City's waves

Cagwait Beach

Rice Fields at Municipality of Cagwait

Beach in Tandag

Truly yours...

Leyte: Rising

Leyte: Rising

I left Bacolod City, last June 4, 2014 for a Mission in Tacloban. A Mission that involves Disaster Risk Reduction for Food Security and Livelihood for an International NGO. It is a new frontier for me. Though I am familiar with the principles, this is my arena where all that I have learned will definitely be put into test. 

A New Adventure:

As a blogger, I have to find ways to help the Province. I contacted friends to blog their adventures here in Tacloban City and the rest of the Eastern Visayas. For me, I am covering five areas: Tacloban City, Palo, Tanauan, Tolosa, and Dulag.

Personally, it is nice to be back here in Leyte, though now it looked different - it has been a while since the last time I was here - 2001 or 2002?. Well, I am planning to prepare my backpack and go for the whole region. I still dont have a sleeping bag and stuff, but what the heck, its an adventure, I should be able find a way to cook and eat. hahaha.

Challenge Accepted:

I was given an advise to enjoy the whole stay. HECK: this is like having a vacation, then helping out, then travelling a lot, I have to consume my leaves - YES, even sick leaves... Then...

I got lost a bit, I wasnt able to communicate well what is it I would want to communicate. Lost in Translation perhaps, I am not sure if its with the body language or the tone, then so much so of trying hard to fit in, my thought organization is scrambled.

Good thing I was coached about it by my Head-of-Project. A relief for being calibrated. Thank You Lord for the people I am working with right now. I like the idea of being left alone until you stumble, so you would learn it from there, than someone is scolding you. Well, I got scolded - many times. Shame on me and I am thankful for that, because from there, I am learning.

Back to Leyte:

Alright, so here is one impression as of now for Leyte, they are recovering, a BIG - YES!!! However, it is slow. It has been NINE Months since Yolanda happen. Some People are still living in Bunk Houses and worst some are still living in Tents. 

Most of Interventions are done by the International NGO's, I am not sure what the President is talking about from his last SONA, that the Philippine National Government was there to first to Respond. Maybe the first to Respond that they made a big Mistake in not following R.A. 10121 - Which Laws are they really following religiously? All I can say personally is: Late Eh.

Other Interventions are coming from Private Individuals who cares for their Province. 

Looters here and there, ransacked neighbors establishments, even establishments that doesn't have food items.

They called Yolanda as the "Great Equalizer", looters are from all walks of life. Rich and Poor - Lawyers, Doctors, Politicians, Ordinary People, etc... This is a stark reality of our presence in this world, that we should live in harmony with one another or else we will act like pests.

Credits to the owner of the Photo: This is Inside Robinsons Tacloban, even a widescreen TV.

This is because of one reason. HUNGER...

HUNGER and Products of Desperation.:

Hunger in all aspects. Hungry because there is no nutritious food eat. Hunger for the death of loved ones. Hunger for cash. Hunger for power.

In the situation of Leyte, to have food is POWER. Many have done so many bizarre ways just to get food.

Hunger makes everyone equal in Yolanda Devastated Areas, especially here in Leyte. This is one Force that Yolanda had brought. 

A Realization for all of us.

Recovery:

Roads are cleared, business are starting to go back, bit by bit  Leyte is coming back to its feet. However, it appears that the Government interventions is a bit awkward.

Roads are preferred to be constructed FIRST, because Pope Francis is coming in 2015. People are still living in bunk houses and tents. They could have used the money to secure a land where relocation of these displaced people can start their lives.

Somewhere in Palo, project of DPWH

I am not sure what kind of impression the National Government would like to give.

Disaster Risk Reduction:

International NGO's have Livelihood Interventions, not wanting to take over, they actually respect the System and Structure of Leyte and the Philippine Government. Corrective Disaster Risk Reduction measures is somewhat happening in the Province.

Asking an ordinary person about Disaster Risk Reduction, they all thought it is just Emergency Response. Even the Barangay doesnt have a functioning BDRRMC(Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council). Few LGU's have DRR Plans, but there is no "actual" participation from the people.

People still doesn't waits on what can be provided by someone else or the government.

So many Gaps, and little has been done.

Red Tape and Politics is whats hampering the recovery of Leyte. This is something the whole country needs to learn and change for. People needs to be empowered.

Environment:

Little regard has been given to the Environment here in Leyte. No Active Environmental Group in here to check the situation of their Environment. Mountains are denuded to give way to Coconuts, now that Coconut industry is in its lowest. They are now feeling the brunt. Fish Stocks has always been low, as mentioned by many fisherman. This is due to Illegal Fishing Activities, when asked about, what are they doing about it, they would point the Government. BFARMC(Barangay Fisheries and  Aquatic Resources Management Council) have the same situation as BDRRMC.

Hope:

There is still hope, the LGU's understands and acknowledges that there is so many Gaps, especially in System and Structure. They are now working on that. The concern is, it is so SLOW.

Correction should begin from the Grass Roots, people should know their individual strengths and collective strengths. They have to do Participatory Disaster Risk Assessment and Analysis. From there they would be able to identify what GAPS they have, make action plans for it. Specific GAPS that requires Government Intervention should be drafted and endorsed to the Barangay up to the LGU level.

This is what a Resilient Community would do. In some parts of the Country this is already happening, it is not just Highlighted. Here in Leyte, I am hopeful that they are going there.

*****

Here are some photo's around Leyte.

Brgy. San Roque, Tanauan, Leyte

Downtown Tacloban City, Zamora Street