LGU extends help to fire victims without fanfare

CITY officials belied opposition’s accusation that the local government unit (LGU) didn’t do anything to help the fire victims of Dist. 4 whose houses were razed last Aug. 10. Actor Richard Gomez made a publicized visit to the site with media practitioners in tow afternoon the next day.

Gomez’s supporters immediately uploaded photos of his visit on social networking sites and posted criticisms against city officials for not doing the same. “Grabe gyud, gi-politicize ang maong sunog ug gihimo-himoan og istorya nga dili mao,” Councilor Lea Doris Capuyan-Villar complained at a barangay visit.

Mayor Eric C. Codilla, for his part, recounted what happened that night, saying he rushed to area immediately after hearing about it. But instead of going near the scene where it was hot, he opted to position himself across Anilao River where he could see everything and get a better perspective of the situation.

He debunked allegations that the fire spread because of the delayed response of firemen and the lack of fire trucks, saying the real reason is the difficulty of fire trucks to get in because of the absence of an access road considering the community is made up of informal settlers.

Firemen hosed the flames from the top floor of Se San School nearby which wasn’t enough. Through radio, Mayor Codilla directed the fire trucks to the river walk which was being blocked by people. He radioed the police to guide the fire trucks through the crowd. The mayor saw the wind pattern and directed the firemen where to train their hoses, thus saving the rest of the neighborhood.

At a barangay visit in Bagong Buhay last Aug. 15, Villar clarified that the LGU was the first to extend assistance to the victims even as the fire was still raging. City Social Welfare and Development Officer Marietta Legaspi said they distributed 166 packs of noodles, 49 packs of biscuits and 352 sachets of coffee that night.

The next day, her office gave 450 kilos of rice, 900 cans of sardines and beef loaf, 400 packs of noodles and 180 bottles of mineral water. On Aug. 12, they continued distributing 450 kilos of rice, 498 cans of sardines, 450 packs of noodles and 252 cans of beef loaf. Legaspi said they will continue providing food aid to the victims for the next two weeks.

Councilor Rolando Villasencio who is with the Gomez camp agrees there was a misimpression that the LGU didn’t extend assistance because of the absence of materials like tarpaulins informing where the aid came from. In contrast, the relief goods given by Gomez were wrapped in plastic bags bearing the “Serbisyong Gomez” logo.

Meanwhile, other government and private organizations also extended assistance to the victims. Among them are Rotary Club of Ormoc, Serv Well Drugstore, Simeon Enterprises, Tau Gamma Phi fraternity, 19th IB, the Restauro family as well as teachers and students of Eastern Visayas State University.

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of Aug. 13-19, 2012)

Jingjing holds birthday at fire site

BRINGING CHEER. Mayor Eric C. Codilla’s wife Jingjing celebrates her birthday with her former neighbors at Dist. 4 where she grew up. Fire hit the community last Aug. 10 that razed 60 houses.

THE Gomez camp has accused Mayor Eric C. Codilla of not caring for the fire victims of Dist. 4. On the contrary however, the neighborhood is close to his heart because it is where his wife Jingjng grew up. Last Aug. 15, Jingjing, who now manages the family-owned AOG Enterprises, went back to her roots to bring joy to her former neighbors.

Accompanied by her sister Joy Maglasang-Paete and son-in-law Junjun Sia, Jingjing served snacks and distributed kitchen wares to 75 families. The items include plates, drinking glasses, ladle, bowl, cooking pot, frying pan, utensils and plastic pail. Ernesto Sejas, 67 and teacher Van Gaspay thanked the mayor’s wife for the gifts that somehow eased their problems.

Maria Kiamco, 75, tearfully related how she lost her home where she was born, had a family and grandchildren. She remembers the Maglasang sisters (Jingjing and Joy) well who kept on coming back to their neighborhood even if they already lost their parents.

In fact, Jingjing visits the community during its fiesta celebration every May 3 and even built a chapel which miraculously survived the conflagration. The house where her family lived, on the other hand, which was occupied by another tenant, was gutted by fire.

Four days later, Jingjing went back to the neighborhood to celebrate her birthday. She prepared a feast for all 89 families including those whose houses were not affected by fire. She also raffled off giveaways like face towels, bath towels and umbrellas.

But the most applauded gift given to the residents was when Mayor Eric C. Codilla announced that they can rebuild their houses based on some conditions set. The first condition is for them to build temporary structures only considering the property they occupy is government-owned.

Second, the residents should give way to an 8x10 meter road right of way which the City Engineering Office is prepared to construct. Mayor Codilla wants to re-establish the road which is an extension of Juan Luna St. beginning from the area between the river walk and Chu Liante Square building.

Eventually, Mayor Codilla wants the road to reach all the way to Mabini St. which will displace more informal structures. He thus encouraged the residents to apply at the Urban Poor Affairs Office for to avail of government housing programs at minimal cost located in Simangan, Libertad, Alta Vista, Can-untog and Coob.

Mayor Codilla further advised the victims to move forward and forget about the tragedy. “Kay basin sama sa flashflood sa 1991, may mensahe ang Kahitas-an nga ang uban ninyo dinhi biktima pa. God is fair, i-agi na lang kadto nga challenge,” he said.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of Aug. 13-19, 2012)

Sea-K’s success in Ormoc paves way for Sea-K II

BECAUSE of the successful implementation of the Self-Employment Assistance-Kaunlaran (Sea-K) program, the Department of Social Welfare and Development will implement in Ormoc Sea-K II, a non-collateral, interest-free money-lending program for small-scale entrepreneurs.

Sea-K targets poor families with six members earning only P7,000 a month and below. Sea-K I has attained an 80% repayment rate in Ormoc. Sea-K II is better as beneficiaries will only have to pay 80% of the P20,000 loan amount, explains Councilor Lea Doris Capuyan-Villar, chairman of the Committee on Social Services.

A total of 40 beneficiaries have been identified for Sea-K II who will receive a total of P400,000 in loans. The beneficiaries are made up of 25 farmers from Cabingtan and 15 members of the Violence Against Women and Children Foundation. The beneficiaries will be organized into the Sea Kaularan/Kabayan Credit Cooperative.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of Aug. 13-19, 2012)

Elevator installed at City Hall

TWO years after opening its doors to serve the Ormocanons, the New City Hall building will finally have its elevator. Philippine Rigid Construction Corp. of Cebu won the supply and installation of the elevator unit and accessories worth P4,029,000. Weighing 9 kgs., the 12-passenger capacity elevator runs at a speed of 60 meters per minute.

It will take clients to the 2nd and 3rd floors and will provide ease to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women and children. Project Development Officer IV Engr. Rizalina Dejaño said the Korean-made elevator will be functional on September.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of Aug. 13-19, 2012)

Politics of hate

IN the dog-eat-dog world of politics, there is no room for sympathy to the opponent. Mudslinging is regular fare that one should be willing to get dirty to play the game. With the next election only eight months away, politicians are exposing every muck they could rake out from their competition.

But how far can politicians go in ruining the reputation of their opponents? Are the supporters of the opponent fair game? Being dirty as it is, we believe a line should be drawn, just as how the police and army observe a set of rules of engagement in confronting the enemy.

This early though, the Gomez political camp has been stepping on the line repeatedly to the point of being inconsiderate to public sensibility in their eagerness to topple down the Codillas. This insensitivity was highlighted during the fire last Aug. 11 in District 4.

The calamity showed the disturbing side of the Gomez camp. While 75 families were losing their homes from the raging fire, rabid supporters of Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez and husband Richard were rejoicing because the neighborhood was a known drug den.

As the victims agonized on seeing their lives destroyed in front of them, Gomez fans couldn’t contain their self-righteous disgust on the burning neighborhood by the way they expressed their exhilaration on Facebook. It was sick not only because the timing was off, but also of the fact that not the entire community is involved in drugs.

The thoughtless comments posted on FB by some self-proclaimed Gomez supporters would have been dismissed as a work of juveniles, but a crony newspaper of the celebrity couple came out with a comic strip poking fun at the calamity. It sarcastically passed judgment on the community as what the Gomez followers did on social networking sites.

It should be noted that that newspaper is an unapologetic mouthpiece of the Gomezes. Think of the People’s Daily, the official publication of the Chinese Communist Party, which diplomats refer to if they want to know the real message conveyed by the Chinese government behind its official declarations.

The comic strip rightfully earned some criticisms online, prompting the publisher to issue a disclaimer also on FB, saying that the cartoon’s content was the idea of its creator of which the newspaper had no say. For a moment there she sounded convincing until she went on to belabor the drug problem in District 4 which she blames on the barangay captain.

In effect, she shared the same sentiment aired by District 4 haters online which was echoed by the comic strip in her own paper but which she insists having nothing to do with. But apart from contradicting herself, the publisher’s faux pas undermined the relief drive of Richard Gomez the next day after the fire.

The Gomez camp quickly went to work and gloated Richard’s distribution of foodstuff. Just because they beat the Codillas’ followers in putting pictures of the relief drive on the Internet, they drew the conclusion that the city government has neglected the fire victims.

But what they did sent mixed signals to the public. Set against a backdrop of condemnation and self-importance by his supporters, the “generosity” displayed by Richard has turned into a form of political campaigning highlighted by the food wrappers stamped with the Serbisyong Gomez logo.

The Gomezes are overconfident they will be able to lord it over Ormoc and the 4th District owing to their popularity. But they overlooked the politics of hate espoused by their supporters. It would do the couple best to put a leash on their attack dogs including their crony newspaper.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of Aug. 13-19, 2012)

P10M fire burns 60 homes in downtown

A TOTAL of 77 families were rendered homeless by a conflagration that swept a residential area in Dist. 4, downtown this city last Aug. 10. SFO1 Roel V. Wenceslao, chief of the Intelligence and Investigation Division of Ormoc Fire Department said an old secondary electrical wire that sparked caused the fire.

The first to catch fire was the house of Dominador Cabibi which was near the post where the wire hung. The flames quickly spread on the third floor of the house made of plywood. Fire trucks from as far as Brgy. Tongonan and the towns of Albuera, Kananga, Isabel and Baybay City responded.

However, the only access to the burning neighborhood is through the Anilao riverwalk wherein fire trucks had difficulty gaining entry because of the crowd that milled the area. The fire spread quickly because the houses were located near each other that most residents were caught flatfooted and were able to save only a few belongings.

The fire was placed under control at 11:00 pm and by 2:30 am a fire out was declared. Cost of destruction is placed at P10 million. Barangay Captain Josela Dumaguit came up with a list of structures burned consisting of 60 houses occupied by 77 families or 295 individuals.

The victims turned down the offer made by the City Social Welfare and Development Office to seek shelter at the covered court in Brgy. Cogon 1.75 kms. away because of the distance. The next night some of them put up tents on their burnt houses while the others sought refuge at an abandoned house in nearby Juan Luna St. owned by Boy Tan.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of Aug. 6-12, 2012)

Johnriel comes home to Ormoc

FRESH from his victory in Sinaloa, Mexico, Johnriel Casimero came back to Ormoc last Aug. 11 to the rousing cheers of hometown fans. Councilor Ruben Capahi welcomed the champ at the port then led him to the City Tourism Information Center nearby for a press conference.

The “Quadro Alas” from Brgy. Can-untog, here in Ormoc thanked Mayor Eric C. Codilla for his advises and continually supporting him in all his endeavors. Win or lose, the mayor constantly gives him an incentive after every fight. If given a chance, Casimero wants to keep on defending his IBF junior flyweight belt even 10 times.

Capahi lauded Casimero as a shining example for the youth. As chairman of the City Sports Council, the councilor has seen the young boxer rise from being a contender at the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association meet representing Ormoc to how he became a world title holder.

For his part, manager Sammy S. Gello-ani said that much as he would have wanted to bring one of Casimero’s fights to Ormoc, it would be a losing proposition without corporate sponsors that would shoulder the cost. Bringing alone officials that would supervise the fight will cost millions.

A motorcade was held afterwards which winded at New Ormoc City National High School where Casimero studied. Mayor Codilla who was then inducting the new set of officers of the Parents Teachers Association in that school welcomed the champ who won last Aug. 5 in a split decision by the judges. His opponent, Pedro Guevarra, is a protégé of the legendary Erik “El Terible” Morales. As of now, his camp is still contemplating on who will be his next opponent. (West Leyte Weekly Express issue of Aug. 6-12, 2012)

City hospital construction phase 1 is 60% complete

WORK on Phase 1 of the city hospital is 60% complete as of the second week of August, according to Project Engineer Elmo Calunsag of REM Construction. Slabs and extended columns are now being installed at the second floor while the basement flooring is finished.

Phase 1 which began last Apr. 13 with a budget of P43 million covers structural works and roofing. Occupying a floor area of 4,610 sq.m., the three-storey hospital is conceptualized to accept patients referred to by the six district health centers. It will initially cater to maternal and child care with appendectomy.

Even as City Health Officer I Dr. Lourdes Lampong prepares the proposed rates, Mayor Eric C. Codilla is coming up with a health card system which indigents can use to avail of free services. City Social Welfare and Development Officer Marietta Legaspi is preparing a list of indigents as the cards will color-coded based on a family’s income to determine the extent of free services to be extended.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of Aug. 6-12, 2012)

Health centers offer free newborn screening

One of Ormoc’s six district health centers that provide services on infant delivery and newborn screening, all for free.

ORMOC has been noted for offering free deliveries in its six district health centers but not everyone knows that these birthing clinics also provide free newborn screening (NBS) to infants. NBS is a procedure for early detection of a baby’s mental retardation.

A law requires all infants to undergo this procedure but not all mothers comply because of its P600 price tag. In September 2010 the City Health Office (CHO) included it to its free services. CHO Nurse and NBS coordinator Brenda Penserga said that infants will have to undergo the procedure within 72 hours after their birth.

“Most babies with metabolic disorders look normal at birth,” Penserga explains.  By doing NBS, metabolic disorders may be detected even before clinical signs and symptoms are present. As a result, treatment can be given early to prevent consequences of untreated conditions.”

The procedure entails a simple blood extraction by pricking the infant’s heel to detect any of the five mental disorders: Congenital Hypothyrodism, Congenital Adrenial Hyperplasia, Galactosemia, Phynelketonuria and Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency.

However, CHO entertains only mothers who have been consistently availing of pre-natal checkups especially during the first three months of their pregnancy to monitor their condition. Unfortunately, this service has been suspended temporarily after the CHO ran out of heel prick kit.

Penserga said a lot of documents are required for the purchase of these kits from Iloilo and takes two months processing time. CHO ordered 1,700 kits good for one year which will arrive on October. This means that infants born at the district health centers this August and September will have take the newborn screening in private hospitals.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of Aug. 6-12, 2012)

Ormoc LGU to buy 10,000 latrines for poor families

MAYOR Eric C. Codilla will release funds to purchase 10,000 pieces of latrines to be distributed to poor households. The mayor bared this during the barangay visit at Green Valley last July 11 wherein Barangay Captain Eddie Gazo requested for latrines.

City Health Officer Dr. Nelita Navales said she released 50 latrines to six cluster barangays which is not enough considering there are 110 barangays. Councilor Rafael C. Omega Jr., chairman of the committee on health said he will pass a supplemental budget to buy 2,000 more latrines.

But Mayor Eric C. Codilla ordered that 10,000 latrines be procured. Aside from the latrines, the barangay folk also aired their other concerns including water connections in puroks, road concreting and more benefits for senior citizens. The city government brought services to the barangay visit including medical and dental missions, free haircut and feeding activity.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 30-Aug. 5, 2012)

OCSSO Season VI opens with NSU as new member

SEASON VI of Ormoc School Sports Organization (Osso) meet opened last Aug 3 with three new schools joining the league: Macabug Elementary School, Ormoc International Polytechnic Academy and Naval State University (NSU). The event was made more exciting by the presence of new faces.

At least 30 educational institutions participated in the opening ceremonies. Valencia National High School alumnus Regie Ramirez declared the opening of the games. He is the Philippines’ top junior power lifter being an Asian record holder and a silver medalist of the World Junior Powerlifting Championships last year in Saskatchewan, Canada.

City Councilor and Osso Commissioner Ruben R. Capahi opened the program by saying that the league succeeded in its mission of sports development by discovering athletes that put Ormoc on the spotlight. Its success is also made more significant with the inclusion of two schools from outside Ormoc: NSU and Visayas State University of Baybay City.

For this season, basketball will continue to be the flagship sport to be played at the Superdome followed by football. The public will see volleyball action at the plaza quadrangle while chess will be held at the Superdome lobby. Other sports attractions are badminton and taekwondo. 

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 30-Aug. 5, 2012)

Beboy cites gains of his administration

MAYOR Eric C. Codilla once again blasted at his detractors especially those from the upper and middle classes who refuse to acknowledge his accomplishments for the city. Critics have stepped up their smear campaign on the mayor now that election season is fast approaching.

The problem with Ormoc’s upper and middle classes is that they limit their observation on the city proper, Mayor Codilla explained. “Di ta mabasol nila kay nagtuo sila nga ang syudad sa Ormoc mao ra na ang Real, Aviles, Bonifacio, merkado ug plaza,” he said.

Because of their limited view, they don’t appreciate the improvements he introduced in far-flung barangays where his administration was able to do much as a result of his style of good governance, Mayor Codilla said. He again cited the Seal of Good Housekeeping earned by his administration.

Along with that stamp is a P45 million prize which he spent on projects in nine barangays. This includes the 590-meter road concreting he inaugurated this week in Guintigui-an. Mayor Codila said the road was supposed to be 700 meters long but the project needed to be elevated and a riprap be built on the roadside as a flood control measure.

Another is a road opening in Monterico which is so remote that it can only be reached through Matag-ob town. The new road shortens Monterico’s distance from city center via Cacao in neighboring Kananga town. Still another road project is in the mountain barangay of Manlilinao that connects to Leondoni and Nueva Vista.

Other projects funded from the P45 million prize are distributed to San Jose (irrigation in Sitios Tipik 1 & 2), Lilo-an, Licuma, RM Tan and Labrador. Mayor Codilla said his critics don’t appreciate these projects but the barangay folk welcome these developments.Delicadeza
Mayor Codilla is saddened not everyone recognizes his efforts even if these redound to the benefit of his constituents. He cited as example real property tax (RPT) collection which was only P8-9 million annually prior to his assumption into office. In recent years, this has improved to P30-40 million a year.

The figure doesn’t include the RPT paid by Energy Development Corp. of almost P100 million annually. With an improved tax take, Mayor Codilla was able to implement numerous projects especially on education considering that 40% of RPT collection goes to the Special Education Fund.

These projects consist of schoolhouses, perimeter fences, stages, comfort rooms and also 22 covered courts with four more being constructed. Mayor Codilla said his only fault was that he didn’t emulate the style of Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez of putting tarpaulins on all construction works of 4th Leyte Engineering District even if she has nothing to do with those projects.

He likens Rep. Gomez’s action to a graduation ceremony wherein a mother claims the valedictorian as her child even if he’s not. He also finds it in bad taste to put a name and face on a project considering the money didn’t come from the politician’s pocket.The best place to live in
Another fact Mayor Codilla cited is the very good services which Ormocanons are paying at a very low cost. This is because Ormoc’s tax rate remains in the level of year 1991 even if the Local Government Code allows local government units (LGU) to update their rates every three years which all other LGUs are doing even in the barangay level.

He cites for instance obtaining a certification which costs P50 in barangays compared to only P5 in the city. On wedding services, the Church charges P2,000 compared to only P50 for civil rites at City Hall. But the best example Mayor Codilla cited is water services which costs only P3.50 per cu.m. in Ormoc.

Water rates costs P15 per cu.m. in neighboring Albuera town, P17 in Tacloban and P35 in Metro Manila. And the amazing thing is Ormoc has the best water services compared to the mentioned places. Mayor Codilla takes pride he was able to provide the best basic services to the Ormocanons without raising taxes or borrowing money.

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 23-29, 2012)

Beboy mulls new routes for tricycles

MAYOR Eric C. Codilla is considering diverting certain routes of tricycles to get them off the highways. The mayor bared his plan at a meeting with Ormoc Tricylce and Motorcab Operators and Drivers Association as well as multicab drivers to settle the differences between the two groups.

The multicab drivers are demanding that tricycles be prohibited from entering Bagong Buhay. Their president Edgardo Yu said the tricycles have affected their daily income that the number of multicabs plying that route have been reduced from 80 to 50 units. Some of the multicab drivers have shifted to driving tricycles which has more income potential.

For his part, Omtoda President Benedicto Lambunao countered that the reason why they enter Bagong Buhay is because it falls within the free zone as declared by Ordinance No. 56. The ordinance limits the routes of tricycles except in the free zone where all of them are allowed entry. He added that the demand of multicab drivers will cripple their livelihood.

Mayor Codilla sided with Omtoda, saying he will break the law if he grants the multicab drivers’. What he can do, he adds is to implement Memorandum Circular No. 2007-01 s. 2007 of the Department of Interior and Local Government. The memo prohibits tricycles from passing national roads except when there is no alternative access available.

Because of this, Mayor Codilla is mulling to prohibit tricycles bound for Bagong Buhay, Libertad and Lilo-an to use the Ormoc-Merida national road passing San Isidro, Doña Feliza Mejia Subdivision and Cogon. Instead, they will take the unpaved San Isidro-Linao road in going to downtown and back.

Mayor Codilla is also thinking about closing Lilia Ave. in Cogon to tricycles so that tricycles going to Simangan and further up north will have to pass Domingo Veloso St. instead. But he still has to consult his plan to the Land Transportation Office and traffic enforcers. The multicab drivers were pleased with what they heard even if the mayor didn’t heed their request.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 23-29, 2012)

Linao church marks 9th anniversary

Mayor Eric C. Codilla and his father former Rep. Eufrocino M. Codilla Sr. along with Alice and Teresa Larrazabal cut the ceremonial ribbon inaugurating the P8 million new rectory of St. Mark the Evangelist parish church in Linao.

NO less than His Eminence, Most Rev. John F. Du, Archbishop of Palo graced the 9th Canonical Foundation of St. Mark the Evangelist Parish Church last July 20. Highlight of the event was the blessing of the new two-storey rectory at the back of the church.

In July 19, 2003, the mission station in Linao, this was elevated to a full-pledged parish. Its first parish priest was Fr. Dennis Soon who was succeeded by the following: Rev. Fr. Jonathan O. Chavez (2004-April 2006), Rev. Fr. Joselito Laurente (May 2006-Sept. 2010) and Rev. Fr. Gerald Alcantara (Sept. 2010-present). 

  (West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 23-29, 2012)

Palo Archbishop Most Rev. John F. Du (center) leads the celebration of the 9th Canonical Foundation of St. Mark the Evangelist Parish Church in Linao, this city last July 20. On his left is Mayor Eric C. Codilla while on his right is Msgr. Jaime Villanueva. They are joined by college batchmates of parish priest Rev. Fr. Gerald Alcantara who is beside Mayor Codilla.

Beboy breaks ground for P20M Olympic-size pool

Mayor Eric C. Codilla does the ceremonial pouring of gravel at the groundbreaking of the P20M Olympic-size swimming pool.

MAYOR Eric C. Codilla led the groundbreaking of the swimming pool at New Ormoc National High School (NONHS) last July 27. City Schools Division Supt. Sol Lumarda welcomed the project as it will produce swimmers that would reap honors for Ormoc in regional and national sporting events.

Mayor Codilla described the P20 million project as a standard Olympic-size pool with a depth of three to 12 feet. It will have 10 lanes and a size of 25x50 meters with 10 meters space allotted at the sides. The entire area to be developed will measures 70x45 meters while its diving board will be raised more than 10 meters from the ground.

Now that the city will finally have its own pool, it will have the capacity to host swimming events for the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (Evraa) meet. Everytime Ormoc hosts the Evraa, the swimming events are held either at the California Energy administration complex in Milagro, this city or at Philippine Associated Smelting and Refining Corp. in Isabel town.

With the pool’s existence, Lumarda said the Ormoc division can finally send a swimming delegation to the Evraa which it seldom does. Mayor Codilla also announced that the pool will be opened to the public for a certain fee to help defray the cost of its maintenance. The Local School Board will come up with guidelines for its utilization.

Actual construction of the project will begin on August and will take 180 days to finish. The capsule buried at the site contained photocopies of the Certificate of Land Title, tax declarations and plans as well as original copies of the groundbreaking program and attendance sheet with signatures.

Former Rep. Eufrocino M. Codilla Sr. also took part in the ceremonial pouring of gravel. Witnessing the event were NONHS OIC Narcisa Batoon, Barangay Captain Rafael Fernandez of Don Felipe, Kag. Conrado Jumao-as of Punta and officers of the General Parents Teachers Association. 

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 23-29, 2012)

Manpower training center progress report

WORK on phase 1 of the new building of Ormoc Technological Manpower Training and Research Center is 74% complete as of July 27. This was bared by contractor Engr. Joseph Frederick A. Pepito who assured that they are ahead of schedule. Currently, work progress is in the installation of beams and trusses, backfilling on the ground floor to be followed by its concreting.

Phase 1 of the two-storey building costing P10,783,761.17 began last Mar. 28 and was scheduled to be completed by September. But Engr. Pepito is confident they will be able to finish it by August. Phase 2 will involve wall finishing, partitions/divisions, paint jobs, construction of comfort rooms and finishing touches. The entire building is slated to be finished on December.

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 23-29, 2012)

Beboy strives to prepare Ormoc for calamities

MAYOR Eric C. Codilla said one of the legacies he will leave is laying the groundwork to make Ormoc disaster-ready. He bared this during a capability seminar on Enhancing Barangay Risk Reduction and Management last July 12. He added that he made this to attain zero-casualties during calamities.

Mayor Codilla, who is in his final term, said the city invested on both tangible and intangible projects. The tangible projects include equipment like rescue boats as well as infrastructure like the two-storey barangay hall in Licuma which can serve as evacuation center during flooding.
The intangible projects are the conduct of rescue trainings up to the barangay level. The seminar oriented participants on the latest orders of the Department of Interior and Local Government including the proper utilization of the barangay calamity fund.

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 23-29, 2012)

Editorial: Serbisyong Gomez

LAWMAKERS in Congress carry the title Rep. on their names because they represent their constituencies in their respective districts. Their representation is not limited to their legislative functions but extends to other responsibilities outside the Session Hall.

This means that in any of their actions, congressmen should consider the interest of their constituents first and foremost, and ensure this would redound to their benefit. Lately however, there has been a noted pattern on the actions taken by Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez on controversial issues in her district.

First is the near shutdown of LIDE Management Corp.’s (LMC) pumping station in Brgy. Salvacion because of its failure to pay regulatory fees to the Ormoc City government. By preventing Mayor Eric C. Codilla from enforcing the closure order, Rep. Gomez overstepped on the LGU’s mandate to look after the public interest

Rep. Gomez convinced Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo to order Mayor Codilla to stand down by presenting a water crisis scenario in Merida and Isabel towns that are being supplied by LMC with water. She relayed this information to the Secretary based on LMC’s say-so.

But this information isn’t accurate because LMC maintains other pumping stations in Matlang and Tabunok, both in Isabel, that could amply supply the barangay water districts (BWD) even without the Salvacion substation. What worried LMC was the prospect of not being able to supply the water needs of the locators at Leyte Industrial Development Estate (LMC) in the event of a shutdown in Salvacion.

Whatever money the BWDs bring to LMC is peanuts compared to the profits it rakes from the industrial plants in LIDE. By influencing Robredo to hold off the closure order, Rep. Gomez worked for the interest of a private corporation over her constituents’.

She was all ears to LMC but she didn’t take time out to go to Salvacion and ask the barangay folk’s take on the issue. She would have learned that LMC isn’t really welcome there. She would have seen a drying creek which they believe is caused by over-extraction of water.

What Rep. Gomez solved is LMC’s problem, not that of the people who voted for her. LMC’s water consumers could only wish she would also do something about the overly expensive rate they’re paying which is P16 per cu.m., 300% more than what Ormocanons pay to Orwasa.

But Rep. Gomez didn’t learn anything from the LMC brouhaha. This month, the simmering conflict between Camp Downes residents and 802nd IB reached a boiling point. Guess whose side she took. She should stop relying on her celebrity status and reach out to her constituency.

The local folk are worried because the army has imposed measures to limit their movements. They can think of only one reason for such, and that is to drive them away from the reservation which the military doesn’t deny. One of the measures the army imposed is the tagging of homes.

To the residents’ surprise, the number tags bear the name of Rep. Gomez. She may not mean harm by that epal gesture, but it suggested to the residents that they have lost an ally on her. Those people are not used to being turned down, much less betrayed by their officials.

Ex-Rep. Dodong Codilla supported the residents’ cause by writing the Undersecretary for Lands to urgently act on  their petition to reserve a portion of the camp for socialized housing. Mayor Codilla, for his part, was heard on radio ordering the 802nd IB to leave the residents alone. What has Rep. Gomez done for the people of Camp Downes? Until she categorically declares her opposition to the residents’ eviction, she will always be portrayed as an adversary to their cause.

New fire station almost finished

WORK on the new Ormoc City fire station is 82% complete, according to project contractor Engr. Glenn Alvin Maglasang of Magnam Konstruk. Construction progress is so fast that he expects the two-storey building’s completion on September, two months ahead of the scheduled turnover.

Engr. Maglasang said they were able to accomplish much despite the challenges they encountered especially on the existence of the sub-provincial jail next door that is on the way of the roofed garage. The jail will have to be demolished to give way to the concrete posts.
 

As of press time, workers are preparing for the roofing and working on the wall finishing at the office area. Work on the garage flooring and glass doors installation are expected to be done on the last week of the month. Next will be the installation of tiles and paint jobs.

Built at a cost of P9,157,795.45, work on the 715.27 sq.m. building began last Apr. 2. The fire station office was moved to the sub-station in San Pablo St., Dist. 12 while the fire trucks are temporarily parked in front of the old city hall. The new fire station is a priority project of Mayor Eric C. Codilla. 

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 16-22, 2012)

CDC passes P3B 2013 AIP

THE City Development Council (CDC) in its meeting last July 5 approved next year’s Annual Investment Program (AIP) to the tune of P2.8 billion, the biggest amount passed in Ormoc’s history. The amount is 194% more than the AIP passed last year (supplemental budget excluded). The AIP comes from 20% of the city’s development fund.

Mayor Eric C. Codilla who chairs the CDC justifies the huge amount to the rising needs of a growing city. This year’s P958,412,000 AIP wasn’t enough that the CDC had to pass a supplemental budget of P963,458.60. This means this year’s AIP (including the supplemental budget) stands at P1,921,870,960.

With almost P3 billion AIP for next year, there will no longer be a need for a supplemental budget, thereby expediting the completion of projects. Mayor Codilla assures that the local government unit (LGU) can afford the amount, citing the P250 million collection made by the City Treasurer’s Office. The figure doesn’t even include the P100 million collected from Energy Development Corp.

Mayor Codilla reported that this year’s AIP is well spent as can be seen in the ongoing road works in interior barangays like RM Tan, Leondoni, Manlilinao, Licuma, Guintigui-an, San Jose, Monterico, etc. He also assured that next year’s AIP will be utilized based on the standards set by the Budget Department.

Aside from funding the city’s numerous infrastructure projects, Mayor Codilla said a bigger AIP will also finance socio-economic programs, this time covering a wider scope. For example, a new item in next year’s AIP is the Indigent Program Medicare Para sa Masa with an allocation of P3,056,700.

Introduced by Councilor Rafael Omega, chairman of the committee on health, the program is a city-funded insurance system that will do away with sponsoring premiums for Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) which costs P1,200-2,400 per indigent family.

The local government unit (LGU) realized that enrolling indigent families to PhilHealth is a losing proposition considering only a few of them get sick within the covered period and avail of the benefits. What the LGU will do instead is to issue insurance cards which indigents can use to avail services at the city hospital when they get sick. In this manner, only when they actually get sick will the LGU spend money on them. There are about 20,000 indigent families in Ormoc.

The Office of Senior Citizens Affairs will be allotted P3,263,381.60, 50% more than this year’s P2,175,160 to finance new programs introduced by Councilor Lea Doris Capuyan-Villar who chairs the social welfare committee. Among these are the granting of P500 Christmas cash gift to indigent senior citizens who don’t receive any pension and cash incentives to the elderly who turn 80 years of age.

The health services for indigents and incentives for the elderly are just some of the new programs to be implemented with a bigger AIP. Mayor Codilla assures that the LGU continue to provide the best services possible even without raising taxes and introducing new tax measures.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 9-12, 2012)

802nd IB’s politicization hit

MAYOR Eric C. Codilla expressed his dismay that officers of 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade allowed themselves to be used by a politician specifically Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez. The mayor aired his disappointment when the army placed number tags on houses in Camp Jorge Downes bearing the congresswoman’s name.

Army officials say the number tags are part of an inventory of illegal households within the military reservation for monitoring purposes to prevent their proliferation. But other than the serial numbers, the tags are also printed with the phrase “Donated by Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez.”

Mayor Codilla doesn’t understand why the 802nd IB had to participate in local politics which is now heating up with the coming election. “Mura’g nawad-an ko’g respeto nila nga pagkakita nako nga namolitika sila,” he said. “Abi nako neutral ang army, nagpagamit man sila.”
He added that the army is not compelled to promote Rep. Gomez’s name even with her assistance in producing the tags. A machine of the city government was used to laminate the tags but the mayor didn’t ask that his name be promoted. “Pagkakita to nako sa house tag nga nay sponsored by Congresswoman, nakaingon kong porbida, gikarga-karga diay ko sa army niini,” he said.

Mayor Codilla apologized to the barangay folk when he appeared to be neutral as he was trying patch things up between them and the army. “Nagtuo man ko nga tinarong ang sa army, yinabag man diay to, pinolitika man diay tong ila.” It now appears that the 802nd IB is promoting Rep. Gomez at the expense of the residents, he added.

Mayor Codilla added that he doesn’t mind if the 802nd IB cover the barangay with Rep. Gomez’s name so long as they leave the residents alone. “Na hala, ipaputos tanang Camp Downes og ngalang sa inyong congresswoman diha, dili lang n’yo labtan ang kabutang sa mga taga-Camp Downes.

“Bisa’g ngalan sa congresswoman ibutang sa kada poste, kada balay, kada kanal, kada punoan. Hala, hutdon ta na kay kahibaw ra bat a sa atong congresswoman mao man pud na ang iyang kalipay, kanang ilang tarpaulin,” Mayor Codilla went on.

The mayor also branded Camp Commander Lt. Col. Edgardo P. Batinga as a trouble maker. “Di ko maayo’g buot sa 802nd karon kay kung nay activity ang syudad, di ko gyud na sila imbitaron. Kung naa sila, papaulion ko sila. Mura’g wa pa ko mahimutang nang ilang kalaki,” he said.

Aside from having been politicized, barangay officials are questioning why residents are made to sign a paper during the tagging. Kag. Marilou B. Gayon said at a meeting with residents last July 14 that gathering signatures wasn’t part of their agreement with the army.

“Ayaw kamo pagpamirma kay tingali ang inyong pirma gamiton lang kadto nga butangan nga ugma dayon papahawaon na mo. Basin kadtong gitagingan unang papahawaon kay gipapirmahan nga nitando mo. Ayaw mong pagpa-ilad!” she warned.

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 9-15, 2012)

Camp Downes officers poised to evict settlers

TENSION mounts in Brgy. Camp Downes as residents brace for their eviction from the army reservation. This was the general mood at the meeting called by the homeowners’ association last July 14 to discuss the “harassments” they experienced lately from the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade.

Topping their list of “harassments” they went through is the closure of the gate leading to Sitio Liberty where there are 143 households. This forced residents in that area to take a long detour going to the main road. Army officers have also tightened rules on ownership of pets and livestock as well as house repairs and improvements.

Residents say the clampdown began with the assumption of Lt. Col. Edgardo P. Batinga as camp commander last May. They are convinced his actions are meant to force them out of their homes which the army has repeatedly made known in past instances.

One instance is a letter to Mayor Eric C. Codilla last Jan. 31 wherein Brigade Commander Col. John S. Bonafos revealed that he has taken steps to implement the policy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) “to evict illegal settlers and/or occupants in the said military reservation.”

Col. Bonafos considers “any and all entry, occupation and/or development in the military reservations, whether by private individuals or government agencies, entities, homeowners’ associations and subdivisions” as illegal. As such, he requested Mayor Codilla not to grant building and business permits to informal settlers of Camp Downes “considering they are illegally occupying the military reservation.”

Col. Bonafos further requested Mayor Codilla in the letter to help them get rid of the houses at the camp shoreline which he describes as the AFP’s future naval base which they intend to make a boulevard to become an added attraction to the city. Some employees of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office in Albuera town share the residents’ apprehension.

In her report dated Mar. 5, 2007, Land Management Officer Angelyn de Lara Costelo wrote: “That during our investigation and verification, we found out that the Brigade of Philippine Army wanted to eject and demolish all the settlers/occupants of Brgy. Camp Downes on the grounds that the barangay is part of Military Reservation since they have [a] plan to utilize and develop the place for the active personnel of [the] Philippine Army.” Costelo was referring to the five-hectare Kawal Kalinga off-base housing project for soldiers proposed by camp officials.
Background

Brgy. Camp Downes used to be part of neighboring Bantigue. Old-time residents claim their grandparents have been occupying the disputed areas since the pre-war era. In Dec. 23, 1968, President Ferdinand E. Marcos issued PD 502 declaring Camp Jorge Downes as a military reservation with an area of 36 hectares.

Despite the proclamation, military authorities didn’t prevent the residents from staying. In Jan. 9, 1979, Brgy. Camp Downes was created pursuant to PD No. 432 and Sangguniang Panlungsod Resolution No. 642. While the camp occupies only 22% of the village’s 161.8-hectare area, 90% of the barangay-folk reside within that reservation.

Barangay officials claim their settlement has never been disturbed for the past 60 years until now. Their fear of eviction was confirmed last June 4 during Lt. Col. Batinga’s presentation to Mayor Codilla of his five-year plan for the full utilization of the camp by the army and navy.

Barangay Captain Samuel Baldezanso accuses Lt. Col. Batinga of sowing intrigues towards this end. The camp commander has been heard to accuse the homeowners’ association of being part of a squatting syndicate that has been collecting money from residents in exchange for their continued stay in the neighborhood.

Kag. Marilou B. Gayon, president of the homeowners’ association confirmed they collected money from members to be used for a parcellary survey to segregate the portion occupied by residents as part for their petition for a Presidential Proclamation to de-list that area from the military camp and reserving it for socialized housing purposes.

The association agreed last year to collect from its members P1,000-1,500 each for the purpose. They were able to collect more than P80,000 even if some members paid only P100-200 which they used for the subdivision survey and to buy boundary stones (mohon).

Gayon said that she spent more than what was collected that she had to use her own money in going to Tacloban and Manila to process the papers. She also confirmed receiving P5,000 from resident Marilou Capuyan and issuing an unofficial receipt for the purpose.

But Lt. Col. Batinga used that unofficial receipt as “proof” of the operation of a squatting syndicate and as basis to close the gate leading to Sitio Liberty. Gayon took offense on the tag professional squatting syndicate given to their association, saying its existence is legitimized by its registration at the city government’s Urban Poor Affairs Office.

Baldezanso explained the purposes of the installation of mohons at houses which Lt. Col. Batinga is also complaining about. First is to plot the area occupied by each household, second is to prevent those households from expanding the area they are occupying, and third is to stop territorial disputes among neighbors.

Baldezanso also complained that Lt. Col. Batinga didn’t hide the fact that he doesn’t recognize the barangay as a political unit. This is shown in his Powerpoint presentation of his five-year plan which places the address of Camp Jorge Downes in neighboring Can-adieng.

Sought for his side of the issue, Lt. Col. Batinga said he is just putting a stop to the intrusion of squatters within the camp by implementing the law. He reiterates that the military reserve must be for the exclusive use of soldiers in need of shelter and not for outsiders.

For his part, Col. Bonafos said they closed the gate to Sitio Liberty for security reasons, but it can be opened during emergency situations. But residents counter that they do not pose as a security risk because most of them are retired military and police personnel and dependents to include law-abiding civilians.

Baldezanso said they know their limitations as illegal settlers, reason why they are working on the Presidential Proclamation granting them the right to own the land where their houses are erected. Their basis for their petition is that the areas they occupy are not being used as a military camp for the past 50 years. The area being used as a camp is situated on top of the hill occupying an area of 210,981 sq.m.

Baldezanso concedes that the military can initiate eviction proceedings against them but insists this should be done through a legal means and not by harassments. Engr. Maximo Torcende who is a resident agrees, saying that only a court order can compel them to leave their homes.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 9-15, 2012)

Camp Downes row might stall electrification project

AN electrification improvement project in Camp Downes is in jeopardy of not being implemented because of the dispute between residents and army officials. This was learned at the meeting among officials and members of the homeowners’ association last July 14.

Maximo Torcende, Institutional Services Department manager of Leyte-V Electric Cooperative Inc. (Leyeco V) who is also a resident of Camp Downes bared that Department of Energy (DOE) has allotted more than P300,000 for electrification expansion at Purok 3 under Energy Regulation 1-94.

However, this may not be implemented after Camp Commander Lt. Col. Edgardo Batinga went to Engr. Torcende’s office to complain why Leyeco V provided electricity connection to the barangay residents. His complaint is also contained in a letter dated June 11, 2012 addressed to Leyeco V GM Engr. Juanito Jorda Jr. which partly reads:

“Please be informed that installation of electrical wiring connections made by your office in favor of the professional squatters inside Camp Jorge Downes Military Reservation violated the provision stated in Article 2, Section 5b of Republic Act No. 7279 which has a penalty of six (6) years imprisonment and a fine of P5,000 to P100,000.

“In this regard, we request removal of the said illegal wiring connections to correct the violations of law committed by your office.”

Engr. Torcende said he didn’t act on the army’s demand to disconnect the residents’ electrical connection, adding that the military camp should be disconnected first considering its unpaid back accounts. However, Leyeco V may stop additional electrical installations within the reservation. An applicant for electrical connection is required to present either a land title or, in the case of tenants, authorization from the landowner.

This also derails future electricity improvements in the neighborhood including the one programmed by the DOE at Purok 3. The money intended for the project will revert back to the national government as it cannot be used in other puroks being subject to audit.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of July 9-15, 2012)

Beboy belies blocking Lucy’s project

Work goes on the rubberized track at the oval field of Ormoc Central School. Mayor Eric C. Codilla has denied he is blocking the project.

MAYOR Eric C. Codilla denied the accusation thrown by the opposition that he is blocking the ongoing project of Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez to develop a rubberized track at the oval field of Ormoc Central School. Work was halted a few days after the City Engineer’s Office (CEO) found a defect on the project design.

The mayor explained that the 4th Leyte Engineering District (Led) which implemented the project didn’t consider the provision of an access road inside the premises. Until work began, vehicles are free to run over the gravel track which will no longer be allowed if it gets rubberized.
 

This means that that part of the school would be off limits to vehicles which will pose a problem during emergencies as firetrucks won’t be able to enter. To remedy the problem, the CEO and 4th Led conducted a joint survey and redesigned the project to accomodate a seven-meter wide access road.
 

The project has since proceeded. “Way katuyan ang syudad pagpugong niana kay improvement man na nato,” Mayor Codilla said, addding that if his purpose was to obstruct, he would have waited for the project to be completed before ordering its redesign. “Maayo nang korehian daan,” he said.
 

Mayor Codilla has ordered 4th Led to secure first a permit from CEO for its projects after commiting a blunder at Liloan National High School where it constructed a six-classroom schoolhouse on a site reserved by the mayor for a two-storey 20-classroom building.

Codillas will continue to serve after 2013 -- Beboy

A GATHERING OF BEAUTIES Cheriemel Diane A. Muego is crowned Bb. Ormoc 2012 by guest of honor former Las Piñas Rep. Cynthia Villar (beside her). Mayor Eric C. Codilla and wife Jingjing, and Vice Mayor Nepomuceno P. Aparis I join them in front of the camera after the coronation. Cherie’s royal court consists of first runner-up Nina Sherra A. Tagalog (2nd from left), second runner-up Kathleen Sofia L. Dy (2nd from right), third runner-up Denden P. Pelin (leftmost) and fourth runner-up Juvilyn C. Estrada (rightmost). A political science major of UP Cebu, Cherie impressed the judges with her reply to the question is she willing to undergo a medical procedure to improve her physical features. She answered on the negative, saying she is already confident with her own natural beauty. (Photo by Felix N. Codilla III)

MAYOR Eric C. Codilla said his family will continue to serve the Ormocanons even after the 2013 elections. The last termer chief executive made the statement in his speech at the coronation night of Bb. Ormoc 2012, an occasion he described as bitter-sweet considering it will be the last time he will deliver his message at the pageant in his capacity as mayor.

Mayor Codilla took the opportunity to highlight his achievements for the last eight years. His administration may not be perfect, he said, but it made significant advancements especially in developing Ormoc’s agriculture and tourism sectors. “There were hits and misses along the way, but I can honestly tell you that I did my best, and my best efforts have borne results,” he said.

Mayor Codilla also bannered his style of good governance that prompted the Department of Interior and Local Government to stamp the city government with the Seal of Good Housekeeping. “We have been advocating for good governance long before the phrase ‘daang matuwid’ caught the fancy of the Filipino people,” he continued.

He also debunked criticisms that he neglected the business sector in favor of agriculture and good governance. “Unfortunately, some of our friends at the business sector had the misimpression that by concentrating on good governance and agriculture, I may have neglected other vital sectors which is not true.

“Various businesses have opened up that enlivened our city. This is shown by our increased tax collection which was achieved even if we did not resort to raising taxes. No less than the prestigious Asian Institute of Management included Ormoc as one of the Top 10 most competitive cities in the Philippines,” he declared.

To stress his point, Mayor Codilla observed that when he first assumed office in 2004, Ormoc didn’t have a nightlife to speak of. “Today as I look around, I am pleased to see a city pulsating with life and living to its potentials; a center of business and education in this part of the country; a melting pot of cultures and ideas where businesses thrive and grow.”

He said he will step down next year confident that the new administration will benefit from the innovations he introduced, even as he challenged his successor to build on his accomplishments. On the other hand, he said he can’t help feel a tinge of sadness upon realizing much still has to be done.

Mayor Codilla thanked the Ormocanons, saying it was an honor serving them and added it was a humbling experience. But he also said it is not yet goodbye as his family will continue to be of service to the city. “Let me assure you, my dear Ormocanons, that wherever the Lord leads me, I, together with my family, will always be of service to all of you,” he concluded.

Mayor Codilla did not specify how his family will do this, but he is expected to challenge Rep. Lucy Marie Torres-Gomez next year, though he has not yet openly declared his political plans. The Codilla family has been in public service for the past 17½ years.

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of June 25-July 1, 2012)

Former Congressman Dodong Codilla Sr. and wife Bebe give the trophy and pin the sash to Nina Sherra A. Tagalog for being the 1st runner-up of Bb. Ormoc 2012.

Ormoc hosts seminar on transparent governance

THE Region Eight Administrators League (Real) conducted its 2nd quarter general assembly and continuing leadership seminar last June 15 in Ormoc. A total of 123 government executives came to hear the seminar on priority key result areas (KRA) of anti-corruption and transparent, accountable and participatory governance attended the activity.

Department of Budget and Management Regional Director and Real President Imelda Laceras said the seminar was conducted to enable executives to become knowledgeable on the KRA so they will be able to align their programs with that of the central government.
 

Keynote speaker Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas Pelagio S. Apostol clarified that her office doesn’t exist to persecute government executives and emloyees but to protect them from harassment. For his part, Ateneo de Davao University professor Fr. Albert E. Alejo, SJ, discussed the topic “Beyond Honesty: Integrity Reflections for Public Officials.”
 

A dialogue with Pelagio was held to enable participants to voice out their queries and concerns. The activity was concluded by the oath-taking of 20 new members to Real led by City Police Director SSupt. Elizar Egloso.

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of June 18-24, 2012)

Gay walks down aisle with bride

THE celebration of Father’s Day last June 17 placed on the spotlight the importance of fathers, specifically the responsible ones who strive to uphold their family. Husbands and fathers come in all shapes and sizes that even those who seem to be the most unlikely candidate can turn out to be the most qualified for the job.

One of the best examples is Melchor “ Mito ” Bendoy. A proud homosexual, no one would think he is married for 21 years with four grown children. His sexual preference doesn’t prevent him from fulfilling his role as a husband and father, including doing carpentry works on weekends.

His love story with his wife Genita began when she took care of him when he got sick. The two are neighbors in Sitio San Roque, Ipil, this city. Mito ’s father liked her for his son and constantly coaxed him to marry her. A childhood friend, Genita knew of Mito ’s “condition” all along as he didn’t conceal his sexuality even as a boy.

Despite this, the couple lived together for six months and got married in civil rites in Jan. 21, 1992. Both of them were 25 that time. The couple lived an ordinary life with Mito earning P200-600 a day as a beautician. He took up a short course on Hair Science and Cosmetology and also moonlights as a massage therapist and dance instructor by night.

Despite his meager earnings, Mito is able to send his children to school. Eldest Meljen, 20, graduated last March from Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and is preparing for his licensure exam. Melchor Jr., 18, graduated last April from a two-year course in Hotel and Restaurant Services, and is now undergoing on-the-job training at a local hotel.

Menchu, 17, graduated from high school but didn’t proceed to college while Francis, 12 is a high school freshman. The children said their friends knew about their gay father but were not teased, seeing how responsible he is and how they were raised properly.

Despite coming home late from work as a dance instructor, Genita says her husband still helps in the household chores. He does the home budgeting and goes to the market everyday. He is also an active officer of the Parents Teachers Association. Genita admits being jealous by her husband’s dancing partners, but he assures she doesn’t have anything to worry about as he is more attracted to men.

Last June 8, Mito and Genita walked down the aisle in a proper Catholic ceremony. They were among the 11 couples who were given the privilege of having a church wedding as part of the Wedding Fair of the city government. While the other brides availed of free gowns and makeup from sponsors, Genita’s dress and makeup were made by her husband.
She couldn’t help but cry during the interview upon realizing how lucky she is for having a responsible husband who, despite his sexuality, proved to be more of a man for committing to her, standing by her side and establishing their family. Truly, Mito puts to shame other “real” men whose sole proof of manhood is siring children. 

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of June 18-24, 2012)

Melchor Bendoy looks every inch a man as he walks down the aisle with his bride Genita despite the fact he is a self-confessed gay. (Photo by Joseph Levi Sausa)

Ormoc rescue group undergo water training

THE Organized Rescue and Medical aides of Ormoc conducted a Basic Water Safety Rescue Training as part of its disaster risk reduction management activities last May 28-30. The activity was conducted in Linao upon the request of Kag. Bong Castillo.

The activity was participated by 12 members of the Barangay Auxiliary Rescue Teams in four villages. The barangay with the most number of participants is Linao with nine and one each from Tambulilid, Naungan and Punta. Lead trainer Dominic Eamiguel said he subjected the participants to three days of rigid trainings.
 

These included two-kilometer runs and one-kilometer swim to build their stamina. This was culminated by a 1.7 km. swimming race which was won by Rex de la Cruz of Philippine National Red Cross-Ormoc chapter who made the distance with a time of 55 minutes.

Mayor Eric C. Codilla poses with members of Ormoc who underwent Basic Water Safety
Rescue Training.caption

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of June 18-24, 2012)

Richard's declaration meant to distract Ormocanons on drug issue

MAYOR Eric C.Codilla dismissed Richard Gomez’s declaration that he will run for mayor as a gimmick meant to divert attention away from the actor’s alleged drug links. The announcement was unnecessary, he said, considering the Ormocanons knew all along of Gomez’s ambition and desire rule the city.

“Nideklarar si Richard og pagkandidato aron mawala ang isyu sa drogas,” Mayor Codilla said, refering to the implication of Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez’s close security aide to drugs. The Gomezes were quick to give their defense to their aide, citing his absolution by Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Commander CSupt. Arnold R. Revilla.

But Mayor Codilla said only PNP Chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome who made the accusation can clear the aide while CSupt. Revilla can only recommend. “Ngilngiga na gyud diay ni nga direktor ‘no? Muingon diay siya nga ‘hoy, dili na mao. Ayaw tuoha nang akong PNP chief!’” he said.

Mayor Codilla feels strongly about drugs because of his desire to minimize, if not eradicate the menace in Ormoc. “Sige ta’g atake [sa drogas] unya naay mudepensa nila,” he remarked. "Isip amahan sa atong syudad, akong obligasyon nga protehean ang mga tawo. Naniguro ta og sulbad sa drogas unya ang uban mudepensa hinuon.”
Mayor Codilla also recalls Maribel Martinez alias “Daisy” who was gunned down last Feb. 26, an incident which police described as drug-related. The victim was a daughter-in-law of a campaign leader of the Gomezes. “Ayaw man kaha ta sa drogas?” the mayor added.

To cover these embarrassing incidents, the Gomez camp came up with the idea of Richard’s declaration to run, Mayor Codilla quipped. “Unsa may gamit og deklarasyon karon nga hibaw-an man nato kinsay mga politiko ning atong lugar? Mao ra na ang style nila aron mawala ang isyu sa drogas,” he said.

With the election still a year away, the mayor believes it is still too early to make declarations. He recalled that he made his own first declaration in January 1, months before the May 2004 polls. Many were expecting Mayor Codilla to make a formal declaration during his birthday last June 7 but they were disappointed.

Guests at his birthday included supporters from neighboring towns, fueling speculations that Mayor Codilla will formally declare his intention to run for congressman. He was also expected to name his anointed successor. While he has repeatedly dropped the name of his brother Eduard as his likely successor, talks are also rife that their father, former Congressman Eufrocino Sr., will make a comeback for mayor.

With the Gomezes belonging under the ruling administration Liberal Party, Mayor Codilla said it is not impossible for him to align with the opposition’s United Nationalist Alliance considering the hierarchy of Lakas-NUCD-UMDP where he belongs to announced the possibility of joining forces with another party coalition.

He added that they will hold an oath-taking of new district party members on either July or August wherein they will make their formal announcement on the personalities they will field for the positions that are up for grabs in next year’s elections.

Meanwhile, one of Mayor Codilla’s guests in his 49th birthday was Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez who looks up to Eufrocino Sr. as his mentor in Congress. Speaking before the thousands of guests, the youthful solon said he sees the developments delivered by the Codillas in 4th District.

Now that Ormoc’s chief executive is on his last term, Rep. Romualdez hopes the constituency in 4th District will give Mayor Codilla a chance to serve them on a higher capacity in government to continue the progress made in northwestern Leyte.

Aside from the bash at Codilla’s Guesthouse, Mayor Codilla also offered the annual “Gasa sa Masa ni Meyor Beboy” which he delivers everytime he celebrates his birthday. Those who availed of the services are given meal coupons for them to claim free lunch at any of the 57 stalls of the food park.

“Gasa sa Masa ni Meyor Beboy” offered free services on dental and medical checkups, tooth extraction, birth registration for seven years old and below, haircut, manicure, pedicure, relexology, circumcision with antibiotics, etc. Free vegetable seedlings were also given away.(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of June 4-10, 2010)

'Ang sarap magpakasal sa Ormoc'

Mayor Eric C. Codilla and wife Jingjing listen to the program during the opening of the Wedding Fair. Also in photo are (from left) OHRA Treasurer Apple Alagon, OHRA President Amparo Tan and beauty expert Dettie Panis. Behind Mayor Codilla is STI College Administrator Maricel Reyes-Ngo.

THE local government unit (LGU) successfully mounted the 2nd Wedding Fair from June 4 to 8. The first event last year attracted bookings for participants that the Ormoc Hotel and Restaurants Association decided to make it an annual affair. This year’s event attracted 34 participants and exhibitors from last year’s 24, making it the biggest wedding fair in Region 8.

This prompted Councilor Lea Doris Villar, vice chair of the City Tourism Council, to propose to Mayor Eric C. Codilla to hold the event next year at the Superdome. The affair was held at the spacious City Hall grounds where a bridal fashion show was also mounted on the third day.

The event, held in June being a traditional month for weddings, served as a venue where suppliers of wedding-related businesses can showcase their products and services. A visitor from Tacloban who saw the availability of all products and services needed for weddings was overheard saying: “Ang sarap magpakasal sa Ormoc.”
Those who took part include hair and makeup artists, bridal gown designers, videographers, events organizers, travel and tour operators, housing developers, wellness centers, pastry shops, etc. Also participating are the Ormoc Choreographers Guild, Ormoc Photographic Society and visual artists. Four schools offering tourism-related courses also put up their booths.

The event was even made bigger with the simultaneous holding by the Tourism Department of the Mice (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions/events) Conference which aimed to consolidate the key players of the Mice industry. “We have the best hotels, restaurants and venues for conferences,” Villar said.

The Wedding Fair culminated with a Kasalang Barangay last June 8 at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Church administered by Rev. Fr. Gilbert Urbina. Eleven couples who were wed in civil rites were chosen for an all expense paid church wedding courtesy of the LGU and sponsors who are also participants of the fair.

Each couple was handled by a team of wedding experts for the contests on Most Photogenic Couple, Best Makeup Artist and Most Organized Wedding Team. There is also a photo contest for the pre-nuptial photo session at Ormoc’s historical sites. Jules Penserga, one of the grooms, is thankful for being chosen, saying he cannot afford a church wedding being an average wage earner.
(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of June 4-10, 2010)

Beboy gives scholarship grants to students

SOME 15 students who graduated from high school with honors received their full scholarship grant for college from the city government. Mayor Eric C. Codilla and Councilor Ruben Capahi who is in charge of screening the scholars met the students last May 5.

Each scholar will be entitled to a one-time P1,000 book allowance as well as P1,500 tuition and P500 transportation allowance per month. The parents are thankful to Mayor Codilla for the assistance extended to them. One of them is Marilyn Corpin who said she will be able to save P20,000 per semester on her son’s tuition.
 

Housewife Emilyn Morales who is a mother of four says: “Sus, manunubo o hurnal ra gyud intawon sa katubhan ang akong bana. Di gyud nako kaya magpaeskuwela sa [akong anak] kung ako ra ang mugasto. Salamat sa gobyerno!”

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of June 4-10, 2012)

Beboy pours over P300M projects to Ormoc in 2012

WITH 12 months more to go in his last term, Mayor Eric C. Codilla is ensuring he will leave a legacy as he continues to pour developmental projects to the barangays. This week, the 12th Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) passed four appropriation ordinances and one resolution approving infrastructure projects with a total amount of P147,964,785.
 

Most of the projects for funding by this amount will go to road concreting and rehabilitation, drainage construction, etc. Mayor Codilla said he is opting for an early implementation of these projects to beat the election ban. The filing of certificates of candidacy for next year’s polls is on October.
 

The item passed with the biggest amount is 2012-107 appropriating P80,660,500 for projects under the Annual Investment Plan (AIP). It includes the construction and upgrading of road networks, bridges, footbridges and spillways in 23 barangays totaling P41,941,400.
 

The single biggest allocation under the AIP is the construction of a bagsakan center building worth P15 million at the reclamation area in Alegria. A bagsakan center is a food depot where farmers can unload their produce for distribution to the market. Also included is the construction of covered courts in Cadauhan and Concepcion worth P3.9 million each.

The public market gets P5 million from the AIP for the provision of granite floor tiles, display partition, hallway center, electrical and paintings on a newly constructed building, P2,558,000; installation of facia board and steel works at Bldg. 3, P422,000 and wet section, P513,000; installation of 2mm thick skylight at Bldg. A, P1,107,000; and installation of two rollup doors, P400,000.
 

Also under the AIP is the construction and upgrading of drainages and cross drainages in Cogon, Punta, Alta Vista and Doña Feliza Mejia at a cost of P8,512,000. The AIP will further improve the Highway Patrol office at Camp Jorge Downes for P1,777,600 and complete the barangay hall in Mabato for P629,500.

Another item, 2012-110 also pertains to additional projects under the AIP worth P52,228,200. It includes P1,130,500 for Lake Danao particularly the improvement of the viewing deck, P750,000 as well as brushing and desilting at the Cabingtan junction of the circumferential road going to the view deck, P380,500.

The 2nd floor bridge connecting Bldgs. A and B of the public market will be upgraded for P744,000. Other projects are the improvement of the barangay health center in Mabini, P377,400; repair and extension of the health center of Sto. Niño, P370,000.

The item also includes the P2 million won by the city from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) for being stamped the Seal of Good Housekeeping. The money is already utilized for the ongoing construction of a drainage system in Domingo Veloso Street.

It further includes the P45 million Internal Revenue Allotment almost lost by Ormoc because of the creation of 16 new cities last year. The Department of Budget and Management restored this amount after Ormoc won the Gawad Pamana ng Lahi for good governance from the DILG.

The city will utilize the P45 million for road concreting works in Lilo-an-Sabang Bao, Lilo-an-RM Tan, San Jose-Labrador, RM Tan-Nueva Sociedad, Cabingtan, Nueva Sociedad-Leondoni-Manlilinao, Guitigui-an, Licuma-Mas-in and Monterico at P5 million each.

Item 2012-106 is an appropriation ordinance worth P7,760,000 for road rehabilitation in various barangays. But Councilor Claudio P. Larrazabal questioned the inclusion of the stretches of Lilo-an-RM Tan-Leondoni and Lilo-an-Labrador-Sabang-Bao considering that said roads are already included in the P5 million concrete road appropriation mentioned in the preceding paragraph.

Engr. II Yvone delos Santos of the City Engineer’s Office confirmed that said roads are subject for concreting but not the entire stretches will be covered. Each project will concretize only three sections with a length of 600-700 lineal meters each but not the entire stretch. As such, unpaved portions of the gravel roads will require resurfacing while the drainages will be desilted as part of the annual maintenance activities of barangay roads.

Item 2012-104 is an appropriation ordinance worth P6,496,085 for streetlights installation in 14 barangyas namely Liloan, Tambulilid, Cabulihan, Dayhagan, Milagro, Dolores, Valencia, Curva, San Jose, Libertad, Simangan, Alta Vista, Salvacion and Naungan.

Finally, item 2012-105 is an appropriation ordinance worth P820,000 for the fabrication and installation of signages at the new City Hall building. The projects covered by the P147,964,785 approved by the SP this week don’t include the 70 classrooms and Olympic size swimming pool programmed this year to be funded under the Special Education Fund (SEF).
It also don’t include the ongoing construction of three edifices – the Manpower Technological Training Center, fire station and city hospital – as well as the waterworks rehabilitation, as these projects have their own funding allocation. If the SEF projects, three edifices and water system are included in the count, this means the LGU will implement more than P300 million worth of projects this year alone.

(West Leyte Weekly Express issue of May 21-June 3, 2012)

Mayor Eric C. Codilla and Barangay Captain Wilfredo Rios inspects a newly constructed footbridge in Lao.