DA literally flooded Bohol with fish

Wake-uppers:

Scene: A chorus of tribute has echoed around the world to remember the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin who died last Thursday, Aug. 16. She was 76.

Scene:  Tributes to former Sevilla Mayor Ceferino Digal began pouring in within minutes following the news of his death last Aug. 9.   The necrological service is today, August 19, 11 a.m. at the Sevilla Municipal Building Lobby.  His youngest daughter Marie Karen Joy Digal said that it was such a healing gift to be surrounded by  people who love and respect his father.  “Daddy, you were always there when I needed you, and I know you are still with us now. Remember that I will always be ‘Daddy's Little Girl’,” she said.

 Fuertes and Montero in war of words.

Scene: Panglao Mayor Pedro Fuertes has been locked in a war of words with former Mayor Leonila Paredes-Montero last week. It started when Montero surprisingly visited Fuertes in his office, while her supporters were outside the mayor’s office. Montero who addressed Fuertes as “Vice Mayor” told him that she will back soonest.

Scene:  Police Senior Superintendent Angeles Geñorga, Jr., director of the Bohol Provincial Police Office (BPPO), said the synchronized operations last Thursday in 47 towns and 1 city targeted shabu dealers and illegal firearms owners across the province. At least 39 were arrested and two were killed in police operations. Geñorga also said that the drug supply in the province has significantly dropped.

***

Divina Sarabia, a resident of Barangay Cogon, woke-up early last Thursday to visit the Agricultural Promotions Center (APC) in Barangay Dao. However, she had to endure the long line since the venue was extremely crowded before sunrise.

Sarabia and other consumers bought fish and vegetables at low price after the Department of Agriculture launched the Bohol Fish Market and Tienda to address the price manipulation in the market which resulted in very high cost of fish, vegetables and fruits in the province.

Broadcaster Felix Cempron said that he was satisfied because he was able to buy a swordfish forP100 per kilo instead of the normal price at P220 per kilo in the market.

The Department of Agriculture launched the Bohol Fish Market and Tienda
to address the exorbitant price of fish, vegetables and fruits in the province.
  Photos by Leo Udtohan

“Mas barato ang mga isda diri, dako kaayog deperensa. Hinaut nga mosustiner gyud ni bah. Mga negosyante  nga murag ilang gipalabian pagmahal ilang tindag isda para ila pud i-us-us. Kay ang mga tawo diri sa Bohol porbida perting lisura tungod niining pagmahal sa  presyo sa isda ug ubang panaliton,” said Cempron.

Agriculture Sec. Manny Piñol said that 7.2 metric tons (7,200 kilos) of assorted fish from Mindanao seas was loaded in Bohol for a cheaper price, which literally flooded the province.

“Natingala ko nga nalibutan mo og dagat pero perting mahal sa isda.  Mao nga mingon ko mubalik ko, bahaon nako og isda sa Bohol.  Pero nabali noon ako’y gibaha og tawo karung adlawa. Nahurot na among isda,” he said.

Not only fish was sold but also some vegetables.  Potatoes were sold at P60 per kilo, carrots at P60 per kilo, lettuce at P80 per kilo, cauliflower at P110 per kilo and broccoli at P110 per kilo

Before Thursday noon, almost all the fish and veggies were sold out.

Piñol said another 20 metric tons of assorted fish will arrive this week.

He said the fish trading in Bohol is controlled by a few big business groups in a validation conducted by his office.

Bohol remains an expensive destination for local and foreign tourists. In Panglao Island where it calls with its stunning aqua-blue waters and white-sand beaches, the place is pricey.

In 2017, the provincial lawmakers initiated an investigation on the factors in the high prices of fish in Bohol which remains unresolved for over a decade.

It was Benjie Oliva, the Boholano administrator of Cooperative Development Authority, who revealed that a fish cartel exists, which has been dictating prices of goods in the province based on a study of the Department of Agriculture.

“I believed of a monopoly dominated by few players in the province,” said Oliva. “Government should address business monopoly in Bohol by providing an enabling policy environment for opening competition from other business players in the country to bring down the cost of products and services,” he added.

Piñol said he wanted Bohol as a fish farm tourism destination. 

***

Drug-free award is not forever-DDB chief

The chairman of the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) Catalino Cuy reminded awardees that the drug-free award for barangays is not forever as it can be revoked anytime.

“Hindi iyan forever,” said Cuy who was the guest of honor during the declaration and awarding ceremony of the 321 drug-cleared barangays in Bohol province last Monday afternoon attended by village chiefs, town mayors, police officers, and other local officials.

A barangay is declared drug affected if there is a presence of either drug users, drug pushers, drug dens  and shabu laboratories.

Cuy said that there should be continuous vigilance of the village chiefs and law enforcement agencies.

“It’s a whole nation approach. Hindi lang si gobyierno ang may responsibility, responsibility ng lahat lalong-lalo na nakatira dun yung community mismo. It is their responsibility to make their barangay drug free,” he said.

The village chiefs received their certificates of declaration from Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the implementing agency of DDB.

Cuy said there was a thorough and careful validation of the oversight committee and satisfying  all the parameters set by the DDB that the  321 barangays out 1,109 villages in Bohol province were declared drug-cleared.

Last month, Bohol has been ranked fifth in the Philippines and first in Central Visayas in terms of barangay drug affectation percentage, according to PDEA provincial office.

But the ranking, according to PDEA agent Nicolas Gomez was based on affected barangay even if there was only one user.  These users surrendered to the authorities even if they used illegal drugs once to clear their names.

“Boholanos are honest and they are volunteering information,” he said during the provincial peace and order council meeting. 

He said the ranking doesn’t mean Bohol has many drugs and pushers compared to other places.

The 321 drug-cleared villages in the province came from 23 towns and one city.

The towns which  almost hit 100 percent drug-free were  Jagna (32 out of 33 barangays), Lila (17 out of 18 barangays), Maribojoc (20 out of 22 barangays, Pilar (20 out of 22 barangays), San Isidro (11 out 12 barangays and Trinidad (19 out of 20 barangays).

Tagbilaran City had only 1 out of 15 barangays declared drug-cleared. Sikatuna town had 1 cleared barangay out of 10 barangays, and Tubigon had 1 barangay cleared out of 34 barangays.

Lila Mayor Regina Cahiles-Salazar said that barangay officials engaged in antidrug activities and actively involving the youth to help maintain the drug-liberated status.

“We persistently motivate these barangays to continuously conduct anti drug abuse initiatives to make our town safe and progressive,” said Salazar.

She said the communities have existing drug awareness, preventive  education and information and other programs. Livelihood programs were given to surrenderees to sustain their families.

Chatto said that the provincial is serious in cleaning the province and many volunteered to surrender ecause they understood the programs of the provincial government.

“This is just the beginning of our victory. We will not stop here,” he said.

 “I hope more batches will come until 1,109 barangays will be cleared and make Bohol a truly drug-free province,” he added.

***

Cure for drug problems remains elusive

The victory in the war on drugs of President Rodrigo Duterte remains elusive, according Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano of Magdalo  who was in Bohol last Saturday, Aug. 18.

Alejao said the war on drugs was likened a superficial band-aids meant only to stop the latest bleeding and haven't proved a cure.

“Dapat i –accept na nating lahat, you can’t totally eliminate illegal drugs in the country. You cannot. Other countries have tried but they failed to address the illegal drugs,” he told Bohol reporters.

Alejano cited some studies that other countries such as the United States of America has grappled meaningfully with the menace.

He said Philippines should learned lessons from USA, Colombia and Thailand who found out that the biggest contributing factors of the illegal drugs were economy and poverty. 

Alejano, who was jailed for seven years because of the munity in 2003, said that Duterte wanted a shortcut that killed even those who were innocent. 

 “The approach of the President is shortcut. So, kapag sinabing shortcut the president doesn’t believe in the justice system, abogado man siya, he doesn’t believe in the justice system. Walang maliwanag  na policy,” he said.

He said additional districts in Bohol would help in lobbying more programs and development to the province.

He said federalism would destroy the country.

“I know what it takes to defend the country especially now that we’re bullied by China,” said Alejano who accepted the nomination of the Magdalo party for him to run for senator for the May 2019 midterm elections.

***

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Pinoy Aquaman shares diet, fitness secret

Wake-uppers:

Scene:  The Panglao’s “trio singing contest” is on August 18 at the Panglao town plaza. According to Dr. Dolereich Dumaluan, the event sponsor, he is looking for the next “The Lettermen.”  The grand  The “trio singing contest” is one of the highlights of Panglao’s fiesta.

The village of Bingag was declared champion
 during the 2^nd Panagat Festival. Photo by Leo Udtohan

champion will receive P25,000, while runners-up will receive P15,000 and P10,000.

Scene:  The 2nd Panagat Festival highlights the colorful tradition and culture of Dauis town.   11 contingents joined this year’s street-dancing contest which was won by Barangay Bingag. According to Dauis Mayor Marietta Tocmo-Sumaylo, Panagat (fishing) is basically, like any other religion-based festival, is always an attribution and expression of gratitude to the patron saint, Our Lady of the Assumption, for blessings received and at the same time, shows fishing as the major means  of livelihood of the Dauisanons.

***

Internationally acclaimed open-water swimmer Ingemar Macarine is “silent” as he is not engaged in any open-water swim this year.

 Environmental lawyer and triathlete Ingemar Macarine:
 ‘Happiness is sleeping soundly for eight full hours, uninterrupted,
and waking up to spending my day productive.’
Photo by Leo Udtohan

Popularly known as “The Pinoy Aquaman, ” who made headlines last year as the first Filipino who attempted to swim the treacherous English Channel, he says it doesn’t mean he is over with his passion for open-water swimming.

He is just taking a break, and trying to shed off some weight, in preparation for another attempt to cross the English Channel, considered the Mount Everest for open swimming, next year.

He still is keeping himself fit by practicing intermittent fasting and being on a Mediterranean diet.

“I lost 14 kilos (30 pounds),” he told VRS on Saturday while drinking his favorite “sikwate” (a native hot chocolate) at Dalareich Chocolate House in Barangay Booy in Tagbilaran City.  From 93 kilos (200 pounds) from last year’s swim in London, he is now 79 kilos (175 pounds), fit and sexier. 

So how does he stay in shape?

Macarine revealed that he still is keeping himself fit by practicing intermittent fasting and being on a Mediterranean diet. He seldom eats meat, turning to vegetables and fruits instead.

He explained that intermittent fasting is not a diet, it's a pattern of eating.

“It's a way of scheduling your meals so that you get the most out of them. Intermittent fasting doesn’t change what you eat, it changes when you eat,” he said.

The Mediterranean Diet, perhaps the world's healthiest diet, is abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and olive oil. It features fish and poultry—lean sources of protein—over red meat. Red wine is consumed regularly but in moderate amounts.

 Pinoy Aquaman Ingemar Macarine meets
Bohol’s chocolate/tableya Princess Dalareich Polot.
  Photo by Leo Udtohan

“It can carry huge benefits if it is done right: weight loss, increased energy, and many other things,” he said.

His usual brunch is oatmeal.

For dinner, Macarine said he likes having “chopseuy.”

The idea, Macarine said, is to have lots of protein and vegetables, and little or no carbohydrates such as rice. He also swears by camomile and green teas and water for their health benefits.

During coffee breaks, he drinks “sikwate” (hot native chocolate) and black coffee with honey.

Instead of turning to procedures, you know to go under the knife to look good, Macarine said he regularly does brisk walking everyday and swimming thrice a week.

Aside from diet and workouts, Macarine also stressed the importance of getting enough sleep, taking vitamins and having fun with friends as ways to maintain a healthy body.

“I sleep eight hours,” he said. “Happiness is sleeping soundly for eight full hours, uninterrupted, and waking up to spending my day productive.”

 What kind of diet do you have?

“I skip breakfast each day and eat two meals. The Mediterranean diet  is eating primarily plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables.  I use olive oil instead of butter.  Instead of salt, I am using  herbs and spices to flavor foods.  I eat red meat twice a week. ”

What’s usually for brunch and dinner?

“I like oatmeal, with three eggs, a buko juice and tea for brunch. For dinner, I like vegetables and fruits. ”

What food do you always crave for, what food do you avoid?

“I always crave for fish and vegetables. I like chopseuy and sari-sari. I only eat meat twice a week but only a small portion of it.  There are many recipes for fish and veggies.”

Any snacks between meals?

“No snacks!” 

How much water do you take per day (soda, coffee, tea or energy drinks)?

“A lot of water. ”

What vitamins do you take?

“Usually multi-vitamins. But mostly Vitamin C and fish oil.

What workout do you do?

“I do brisk walking and swimming.”

What part of your body needs improvement?

“I think my tummy.  Belly fat is harder to lose than fat in other areas of your body. It’s difficult to achieve.”

What part of your body is most vulnerable?

“My left shoulder. Due to volume of trainings, I had an injured  shoulder last year since endurance swimming has repetitive motions.”

***

Art exhibit in Bohol brings appreciation for diversity

With art ranging from paintings, sculptural works, performance arts and installations, the Philippine Visual Arts Festival (PVAF) in Bohol 2018 was one of the most intriguing events hosted in this city during last month’s Sandugo Festival.

With an abundance of amazing art, perhaps the best part of the art exhibit was that artists came together to celebrate and be inspired.

The PVAF was held on July 23-27 was presented by National Commission for Culture and the Arts  (NCCA), Bol-anon United Sectors Working for the Advancement of Community Concerns (BUSWACC) and provincial government of Bohol.

According to Liza Macalandag, project coordinator, PVAF Bohol 2018 gathered 83 visual artists from all over the country to celebrate, reflect and refract on our heritage and the visual arts.

Kalamadera by Renzo Anora

Bohol’s  culture czar  and musical scorer Gardy Labad was the event consultant who said that  artists can draw from or reflect on the various facets of our heritage- cultural, natural, tangible and intangible- which are(bahandi)  treasures.

Fellow artist JumJum Ouano got to display his art.

“I love events like this where you get to bring your art and see everyone else’s art,” said Ouano. His work “Maglana Tag Potot? (Making Oil from Coconut Sprout?)” showed the appreciation of the coconut as a fruit that has many cultural attachment to Boholanos.  Potot (a coconut  sprout) served as food during hard times.

Manila-based multi-disciplinary artist Sam Penaso who used  his own body as the medium performed a mentally, creatively and physically challenging task on Alona Beach in Panglao town. His performance art was calling for clean seas.

While PVAF in Bohol 2018 was providing a great way for artists to showcase their talents, it also gave visitors the opportunity to explore the culture and talent of Boholano artists and other artists from the country.

“Expressive, lots of emotions are featured,” said Education student Jamielaine Butawan.

Butawan, 19, a resident of Cortes town, came to see the exhibit at the Island City Mall together with her friends Kathleen Jean Ayuban and Neil Amplayo.

“The art here said a lot about the artists from Bohol and other regions and how diverse everyone really is,” added Butawan.

Istallation arts were also displayed at the top of Chocolate Hills in Carmen town, Loboc River, Abatan River and Plaza Rizal in Tagbilaran City.

Installation art is a modern movement characterized by immersive, larger-than-life works of art. 

A giant whale-shaped blimp made of bamboo designed by contemporary artist-designer Leeroy New attracted visitors at the Chocolate Hills. It soared above the Chocolate Hills only until July 28.

***

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300 Bohol moms celebrating August with simultaneous breastfeeding

Wake-uppers:

Scene: Consumers in Tagbilaran lined up last Friday to buy cheap rice from National Food Authority (NFA) as sales and distribution resumed in the province.  According to NFA-Bohol manager Maria Fe Evasco, 40,000 sacks of rice arrived in Bohol last Tuesday from Cebu after four months of non-availability of NFA rice in the market.  The NFA rice is sold at P27 per kilo half a price of the commercial rice.  Evasco explained that they had to limit 5 kilos being sold to an

Ilocos Norte. Gov. Imee Marcos

individual a day so many consumers could avail of the cheaper rice.  “We have to limit it in the sense that we have plenty of consumers in the locality for them to avail/buy of the low price NFA rice, we have to institute the measure of limiting it to 5 kilos per customer per day,” she said. 

Scene:  Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos was in Bohol last week to attend the Acquaintance Party of the BIT-International College and meet the members of the Marcos Loyalists Movement.  She was met by Vice Governor Dionisio Balite, Agriculture Central Visayas director Salvador Diputado, Donald Sevilla of Alyansang Bol-anon para sa Kausaban (Abaka)  and Balilihan Vice Mayor Roy Adonis Olalo. Marcos also met Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco, Jr at the event. Marcos said she was thankful to Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio for including her in the list of senatorial candidates that will be endorsed by regional political party Hugpong Ng Pagbabago (HNP) in the May 2019 elections. She said she was in Bicol when she heard the endorsement during the Bohol launching of Abaka which Duterte was the guest speaker. Marcos said she has yet to decide if she would run for senator in the 2019 midterm elections. “Napag-usapan sa pamilya na iba na tatakbo baka hindi na si BongBong because he doesn’t want to abandon the protest. (It was discussed in the family that another one should run, maybe not BongBong) Maybe, I will be the one to run,” she said.

***

Marking the start of the National Breastfeeding Month, more than 300 lactating mothers from Bohol province simultaneously breastfed their babies for one minute yesterday, August 4 at the Island City Mall.

More than 300 lactating mothers simultaneously breastfed their 

babies for one minute during Saturday’s “The Big Latch”

 to mark the celebration of the National Breastfeeding 

\Awareness Month. Photo by Leo Udtohan

The event dubbed “The Big Latch” was the first ever breastsfeeding advocacy in Bohol, according to

Dr. Suzette Quiwag-Redillas, chair of the breastfeeding committee at Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital.

Dianne Pozon, 38, a resident of Tagbilaran City, brought her three month-old son Joseph Niño to the event.

“This is an event for all mothers and families,” said Pozon, a mother of five. 

Pozon believed that there are many benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers.

“I believe it is still the best source of nutrition and growth of infants,” she said.  “Breastfeeding is still best for babies.”

After the simultaneous latch-on, lactation experts, peer counselors, and breastfeeding advocacy supporters shared the benefits and importance of breastfeeding to the mothers.

There were parlor games to enliven the event.

***

Sen. Bam Aquino validates sufferings of

ordinary Boholanos due to TRAIN Law

Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV said he would be the voice of the ordinary citizens who were directly affected under the tax reform program.

The Senator made the remark last Thursday afternoon as he had a consultation meeting with market vendors, fishermen, and other members of the sectoral groups at the Dao Public Market in this city.

Sen. Bam Aquino

Aquino listened to the residents who shared their plight on the high prices of goods under the Tax Reform Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law.

“Magiging madali lang ito sa akin kasi kasama ko kayo. Naghahanap po ako ng tapang mula po sa inyo. Hindi ako mawawalan ng lakas ng loob na ipaglalaban ito kahit mag-isa lang ako.  Pero sa totoo lang po kahit mag-isa lang ako dun, hindi ako nag-iisa kasi kasama ko po kayo,” he told at least 60 attendees. 

Aquino said he has been pushing for the immediate suspension of the excise tax on petroleum products to lessen the burden on the public.

 And if Communications Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson would like to talk at the senate as invited by Senator Nancy Binay as one of the resource persons in the next hearings to amend the charter, Aquino said Uson is welcomed at the senate.

“Well, lagi tayo  nag-attend dun sa mga hearing sa federalismo at sa  pagpapalit ng constitution.  I think si Senator Binay ang nag-invite sa kanya.  Maganda nga pumunta siya para mapag-usapan dun,” said Aquino.

Tapping Uson in raising awareness about federalism, Aquino found it awkward since Uson was known for posting fake news in the social media.

“Pero ako, simple lang, yung Constitutional Commission na kunin ang isang tao na  madalas o  may track record ng  pagbabanggit ng fake news bilang spokesman nila parang hindi seryoso dun  sa gusto nilang marating sa pagtuturo ng constitution sa ating mga kababayan,” Aquino added.

He said a constitutional expert would help to raise awareness of the proposed shift to a federal government.

“Sana po ang kinuha nila talagang constitutional expert.  Marami sa kanila ganun yung pagkakilala.  Sana hindi po tayo kumuha ng isang Asec na alam natin na makontroberysa dahil sa paglalabas ng fake news in the past,” he said.

NFA-Bohol Manager Maria Fe Evasco and NFA Information
Officer Jhoel Lim inspected rice retail stores in Barangay Cogon
 in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, during the resumption of sales/
distribution of NFA rice. Photo by Leo Udtohan

Uson has been  criticized by netizens in the social media for posting misleading information and inaccurate photos.

Benjie Oliva, a former youth leader and administrator of the Cooperative Development Authority, said that Aquino’s visit was able to validate the sufferings of the ordinary Filipino. 

“Sen. Bam Aquino was able to validate the sufferings of ordinary Filipinos brought by the high inflation rate and the implementation of Train law particularly on the excise tax on fuel during the Konsultahang Bayan held at Dao Public Market,” said Oliva.

Oliva added that Aquino’s ‘Bawas Presyo Bill’ filed at the Senate is a measure that would suspend the implementation on the excise tax on fuel thereby lessening the burden of our poor Filipino people.

“Sen. Aquino’s consumer protection advocacy is a testament of his deep concern to the poor and vulnerable sectors of society,” he added.

***

Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

Facebook is upset that Miss Maribojoc didn’t win Miss Bohol crown

Wake-uppers:

Scene: The 176 exhibitors from the different parts of the country for the 13th Sandugo Trade Expo 2018. “ This will sustain the operation of micro small and medium enterprises for the next year. It means job, income and employment in the countryside,” said Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Visayas Director Aster Caberte.

Scene:  Joshua Lillehagen of Calape town was crowned Sandugo Festival King 2018. He also received the awards: Mister Social Media, Darling of the Crowd, Best in Raja Si Katuna Costume and Best in Sandugo  Festival Costume.

Scene:  At least 500 members from different groups and cause-oriented organizations gathered last Monday, July 23,  in Ubay town to hold a protest rally  against various issues and grievances in time of President Duterte’s third State of the Nation Address (Sona).   According to Hugpong sa Mag-uumang Bol-anon (Humabol) Secretary General Nelson Lumantas,  they gave Duterte a failing grade, as they burned his image.

Scene: Residents of Barangay Booy in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, celebrated the “Koja Festival 2018” last Tuesday, July 24 at Caingget Beach.  Koja, a coral clam, is a popular delicacy in Bohol province.  Highlights of the festival were koja cooking, tuba (coconut wine) drinking and swimming contests.  The event was graced by Tagbilaran City Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Veloso, Councilors Jonas Revil Cacho, and Dodong Gonzaga. Congratulations to Booy Council headed by Captain Violy Ayeng. Cheers to koja divers and vendors!

Scene: With art ranging from paintings, sculptural works, performance arts and installations, the Philippine Visual Arts Festival (PVAF) in Bohol 2018 was one of the most intriguing events hosted in this city in time for the province’s Sandugo Festival. It gave visitors the opportunity to explore the culture and talent of Boholano artists and other artists from the country.  “Expressive, lots of emotions are featured,” said  BISU-Tagbilaran Education student Jamielaine Butawan. Butawan, 19, a resident of Cortes town, came to see the exhibit at the Island City Mall together with her friends Kathleen Jean Ayuban and Neil Amplayo.  “The art here said a lot about the artists from Bohol and other regions and how diverse everyone really is,” added Butawan.

***

Everyone is still in frenzy over the recently concluded Miss Bohol 2018 pageant. However, not everyone was happy for the newly crowned Miss Bohol.

Miss Tagbilaran Raclaire Stephan Trigo beat out first runner-up Miss Maribojoc Ma. Mediatrix Escabarte and other 19 contestants  at the pageant at Bohol Wisdom Gymnasium in the capital city of Tagbilaran.

However, instead of the usual cheering, the audience booed the judges' decision, making it known that crowd favorite Miss Maribojoc’s first place wasn't good enough.

“It was a déjà vu,” Bohol Pageantology 101  page on Facebook posted.  In 2015, Miss Tagbilaran Eda Cimafranca who won the crown was also booed by the audience.

But this year was so deafening that audience booed and heckled at the winner.

The treatment of the Tagbilaran beauty queen was nothing personal. It had more to do with the city's sometimes “tense” relationship with its powerful northern neighbor.

 Miss Bohol 2018 Raclaire Stephan Trigo and Miss Bohol
 2018 first runner-up Ma. Mediatrix Escabarte are
 real beauty queens.
Contributed Photos/Gerald James Cabal/Miss Bohol

Trigo’s winning added to the theory that the Tagbilaran always is favored, a homecourt advantage, and a cooking show.

However,  Trigo kept her poise like a true beauty queen during the coronation despite the boos and chants of "Maribojoc!  Maribojoc!" that drowned out the moment.

The pageant emcees (whose voices were decibels down) and organizers didn’t step in and tell the crowd to calm down and respect the winner as the process was hard and stressful.

People have taken to social networking sites to vent out their frustrations. 

Trigo did not comment publicly after the contest.  The organizers have yet to issue a statement.

But what was disaster was the so-called “Walk of Shame” which was the most talked about in the social media.

Normally it should be the top 5 only who should be publicly announced to give a graceful exit to those who did not make it.  The organizers, however, changed the usual thrill of calling the top 5 . Instead, the 16 candidates were called one by one  to bid goodbye.

 “Where you can see a beauty pageant which insulted directly or indirectly the candidates by way of announcing first those who did not make it? You have insulted the candidates, their families their supporters and friends. How cruel and rude of you,” former society writer Gisela Mae “Jiji” Apalisok expressed her disgust on the walk of shame.

A beauty expert Papa Jack told VRS that the show tried to inject a new concept and it was not a “Walk of Shame” but a “thank you message.”

“If you’re watching a reality TV show or an America’s Top Model, that’s it. However, the Boholanos are not yet ready to embrace a new style,” said Papa Jack.

Others said that the “walk of shame” was rubbing salt to an injury and also an upfront to the towns.

The admins of Bohol Pageanthology 101 suggested that they shall assign a municipality  to be the host for Miss Bohol every year. “Through this we can boost the tourism of Bohol. Ang mga lungsod nindot ang mga gym nila. For example, next year, Ubay will be the venue of Miss Bohol. If Miss Bohol is promoting culture, heritage, and tourism, then let the venue go around Bohol,” they said.

 Miss Bohol 2018 Raclaire Stephan Trigo (center) and her court- (l-r)
Miss Bilar Jesseth Nez Pasagad (3rd runner-up),  2nd Runner Up
 - Miss Dauis Hannah Cemine (2nd runner-up), Miss Maribojoc  Ma. Mediatrix Escabarte (1st runner-up) and   Miss Ubay
Anasela Zarisa Gaviola (4th runner-up). Contributed Photo/Gerald James Cabal/Miss Bohol

US-based socialite and beauty pageant expert Mikey Gatal said there was nothing wrong with the new concept.

“In a positive way, it was not a ‘Walk of Shame’ for me because for sure the girls were briefed about that part of the pageant and they all agreed to that,” Mikey told VRS.

“As I have seen the video, they actually had given the opportunity to thank their supporters and not just clappers and totally be forgotten who they were after top 5 will be called right away, though time consuming but, I love the idea. Let’s all be happy, respect judges decision and others opinions,” he said.

Pageant fans also expressed their support for  Trigo, saying she was the real winner in their hearts. 

On his Facebook account, Crommuel Salitrero said that Trigo answered and delivered her thoughts with dignity, grace and pride. He said it’s not about the perfect answer but it’s always God’s will.

“When people booed her but still stood up and finish the fight with grace and confidence,” said Salitrero whose comment was shared many times on Facebook.

Bohol’s seasoned host Raul Gatal said that the bashing hurt and wounded the hearts of the people directly behind the show’s conceptualization and execution.

“God knows how difficult it is to mount a show of such magnitude. There might have been lapses but clearly  the intention was not to malign nor degrade the girls,”  Raul posted on Facebook.

Miss Bohol 2018  third runner-up Jesseth Nez Pasagad said she blessed to have met such equally beautiful, smart and talented ladies.

“To Miss Bohol 2018, Raclaire Stephan Trigo, you’ve accomplished so much at such a young age and I am proud of you. May you have a meaningful reign,” Pasagad posted on Facebook.

Time to move on and support Trigo’s reign.

It’s like a sick leave for all those afflicted with “Miss Bohol Fever.”

***

Mayor Che for Congress

The 2019 mid-term elections is promising to be exciting as several “veteran” and newbie politicians have signified their intention to run.

Former Carmen Mayor Conchita “Che” Toribio-Delos Reyes revealed her plan to run for congressman for the third district of Bohol. 

She declared, “Yes, I am definitely running. I am 100 percent sure!”

Mayor Che added, “My intention is clean. It’s the same genuine service from me because I just want to serve the people of the third district of Bohol.”

Mayor Che is known for the beauty soap “Beauche.”

 Former Carmen Mayor Conchita “Che”
Toribio-Delos Reyes is ready to run for Congress.
Leo Udtohan

She said she has nothing to fear and worry.

“God is with me and the people are with me,” she said.

Last Thursday, July 26, Mayor Che organized the Federalism and Anti-illegal Drugs Summit in Carmen town. It was attended by at least 2,000 participants-  mayors, vice mayors, barangay captains, kagawad, Sangguniang Kabataan officials, senior citizen and 4P's beneficiaries - from the third district towns.

Mayors who attended the event were Dimiao Mayor Danny Guivencan, Garcia-Hernandez Mayor Tita Galentes, Guindulman Mayor Ben Balo, Ubay Mayor Constan Reyes, Sevilla Mayor Juliet Dano, Anda Mayor Angelina Cimacio, and Pilar Mayor Eugene Datahan. Also present were Batuan Mayor Yes Tirol-Dumagan.

Speakers who talked about federalism and anti-illegal drugs campaign were Department of Social Welfare and Development acting secretary Virginia "Gee" Orogo, Department of Interior and Local Government Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs Martin Diño, Rep. Francisco Datol,  lawyer Aimee Torrefranca Neri and former Laguna Governor ER Ejercito III.

***

King Cesar’s Burger at Cesar’s Place

Where to find the best buns and patties in the province?

Take a clue from teen singer Darren Espanto who said that the best burger in town is in Bohol.

It was two years ago when Darren told burger lovers that 717 Cesar Place along CPG North Avenue (Phone: (038) 501 0785) has the delicious bun you don’t want to miss.  In fact, when  Darren was asked to weigh in on his favorite burger  he firmly asserted, “King Cesar’s Burger.”

Tourism and hospitality expert Ariel Llanos
of 717 Cesar Place shows the signature “King Cesar’s
Burger”  which has a delicious sweet kick.  Leo Udtohan

But it took me two years to experience it for myself.

 “Yummy! When I took the last bite of “King’s Cesar Burger” last Wednesday.

It was the hotel’s supervisor Ariel Llanos  who told me that their burger is deep and real.

“The Cesar  Place’s resto has burgers to tantalise every taste bud, no matter what you’re craving,” said Ariel, an tourism and hospitality expert. 

Each burger comprises a home-made beef patty with Mozarella cheese pickled onions, egg, fresh mushrooms on a sesame seed bun.  It is served with a side options of cheese fries and a sweet sauce.

Ariel also said that 717 Cesar Place, which is owned by Cesar Maluenda,  offers 20 affordable and clean rooms. 

Since it opened in 2016, it is managed by Camille Maluenda.

***

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‘Abaka’ movement launched to intensify campaign against corruption and drugs

Several groups and personalities on Friday, July 20, launched the “Alyansang Bol-anon para sa Kausaban” (Abaka) to support President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration's so-called war on drugs and corruption.

Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco, Jr. likened the movement to abaca fiber, a plant which is natural resource of the Philippines, considered as the strongest natural fiber that is suitable for rope making. 

 “Kining ‘ABAKA’ o Alyansang Bol-Anon para sa Kausaban’ usa kini nga pundok multi-sectoral gikan sa laing-laing sector sa Bohol aron sa ingon niana,maghawiray kita sa atong mga kamot,atong buhi-on ang atong mga damgo sa kausaban.hangtud ang kausaban mahitabo sa atong lalawigan sa tukmang panahon,” Evasco explained.

The organic members of Abaca are Norris Oculam, as chairman; Donald Borja Sevilla, Boy Pernia, Leon Calipusan, Msgr. Jeff Malanog, Argeo  Melisimo, Nonnie Orillosa, Dr. Lorna Rances, Joy Sevilla, Berting Datahan, Dr. Atup, Fr. Warli Salise, Jr., and Holger Horn, et al—as members.

The launching was graced by the presidential daughter and Davao City Mayor Sara “Inday” Duterte-Carpio.

Even she figured prominently in surveys, Mayor Sara reiterated that she had no interest to run for Senate in May 2019 elections.

Presidential daughter and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio graced the launching 

of “Alyansang Bol-anon para sa Kausaban” (Abaka), a multi-sectoral alliance,

 on Friday, July 20, in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, to establish an anti-drug and

 –corruption organization in the province. Leo Udtohan

“My plan is to run for mayor of Davao City for the 2019 elections,” Mayor Sara told Bohol reporters during the launching of the Alyansang Bol-anon para sa Kausaban (Abaka) in which she was the guest speaker.

She said she felt she was still effective as mayor of Davao City, a good neighbor to other places in the country.

“I feel that Davao City can help other LGUs with all the years of best practices and all the years of good projects that Davao City LGU had produced. We think that and I think  I can help more if I am mayor and ask everybody to come to Davao and look at what the local government has done for  Davao City,” she added.

Mayor Sara told more than 1,000 participants of Abaka that the senate is not for her since she is a silent type.

“Feel nako wala koy buhaton sa Senado,” she said.

Abaka is the umbrella of the various political personalities and persuasions identified with President Duterte.

Abaka members want to continue the aggressive campaign on drugs and stop corruption in the province.  

Bohol has been ranked fifth in the Philippines and first in Central Visayas in terms of barangay drug affectation percentage.

Last month, according to Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency provincial officer Nicolas Gomez, around 400 of 1,109  barangays in Bohol have been recommended by the provincial government and the PDEA to be declared drug-free by the multi-agency Regional Oversight Committee.

“This is not for 2019, Abaka will support leaders which we believed can help Bohol,” said Norris Oculam, chairman of Abaka.

“We are not relying on politicians. This is a movement of the people regardless of political affiliations,” he added.

Mayor Sara said since her political party “Hugpong ngPagbabago,” which was recently approved  by Commission on Elections (Comelec) as a regional political party in Region 11, she  sought alliance with other parties and movements such as Abaka in Bohol.

Also present during the Abaka launching were Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo, Evasco, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernest Pernia,  former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chair Francis Tolentino , presidential spokesman Harry Roque, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar , PhilHealth board member Celestina Dela Serna, special envoys to China Carlos Chan and Fernando “Ding” Borja,  and Philippine Sports Commission chairman William "Butch" Ramirez .

Davao City Mayor Sara  Duterte-Carpio

In Bohol, only Vice Gov. Dionisio Balite, 2nd District Rep. Erico Aristotle Aumentado, and at least eight mayors  --Allen Ray Piezas of Clarin, Norman Palacio of Bilar, Jacinto Naraga of San Isidro, Casey Shaun Camacho of Getafe, Danny Guivencan of Dimiao, Juliet Dano of Sevilla, Jose Nicanor Tocmo of Corella and John Geesnell Yap II of Tagbilaran City, and some councilors and village officials, attended.

Businessman Lucio Lim, Jr, of Lite Shipping, DA 7 Regional Director Salvador Diputado and wife Alma, former Panglao Mayor Doloreich Dumaluan, lawyers Rain Calimbayan, Doni Piquero and Danilo Bantugan, University of Bohol Registrar Leah Tirol-Magno and hubby Art,  Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado, Booy village councilors Jun Telmo and Clement Ingking,  Barangay Poblacion 1 captain  Arlene Karaan, were also spotted during the event.

Cebu City Councilor Margarita “Margot” Osmeña and former Cebu Rep. Rachel del Mar also came to Bohol to attend the activity.

Other politicians and businessmen from Visayas and Mindanao also attended the launching.

Mayor Duterte also surprised the audience by formally endorsing  former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chair Francis Tolentino , presidential spokesman Harry Roque and Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar  for the senate in May 2019 elections.

Those who were present cheered and reacted positively to Mayor Duterte’s endorsement.

“So, will have to wait and see.  But they (Roque, Andanar and Tolentino) are testing the water if okay ba mudagan sila,” Mayor Duterte said.

Aside from Roque, Tolentino and Andanar, Mayor Sara also endorsed Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, Senators JV Ejercito, Sonny Angara and Cynthia Villar.

Roque humbly thanked the mayor for the endorsement.

“Ako po’y nagagalak and I am humbled by the endorsement of Mayor Sara. Importante po sa akin ang suporta ng paboritong anak ng ating president,” said Roque.

He said he would move forward knowing that God has a plan.

“At ako po’y pinasa-Diyos kung ano ang kinabukasan sa pulitika.  Bahala na ang Panginon but I am very thankful sa endorsement.  Nung ako’y aktibisita  di ko akalain na ako’y magiging member ng  kongreso, nung ako’y nasa kongreso di ko akalain na ako’y maging miyembro ng gabinete.  Di ko alam what God has to offer me, but Thy will be done,” Roque added.

More than the launching, the movement is also looking for a real Boholano (Wanted Tinuod Nga Bol-anon).

“Matinahoron, mahigugmaon sa isig kaingon ug andam manalipod sa mga dinaogdaog.Kaliwat ni Dagohoy, sumpa sa mga kurakot ug mapahimoslanon. Mao kini ang TINOOD NGA BOL-ANON,” Donad Sevilla posted on Facebook.

***

Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

Jesseth Nez Pasagad: Putting substance to beauty

The opening question was: Do you have a boyfriend?

Jesseth Nez Sendrijas Pasagad gave an honest answer: “All I can say is that I have someone special inspiring me right now. I’m trying to focus more on building my career as an engineer and as a servant to the community.”

Crowned Miss Teen Bohol 2012 first runner-up and  Miss Talent at 16,  Jesseth has been practically on the spotlight ever since. So much that when she graduated Magna Cum Laude for Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering at Palawan State University, she was the first Boholana beauty queen turned petroleum engineer.

Now 22, she juggles her time to reading, studying, playing the guitar, singing, and at times, joining beauty pageants. She is a good daughter in that she wants to fulfill her mother's frustration of being a beauty queen.

As one of the early favorites of Miss Bohol 2018, to be a beauty queen with a purpose is something that Jesseth knows too well. Her advocacy is about "Pasiga Gikan sa Basura” which intents to convert solid waste to sustainable energy that will hopefully give electricity to communities in Bilar town.

Let’s see how she fares in this tête-à-tête with your VRS, conducted a week before the pageant.

As one of the early favorites of Miss Bohol 2018, Jesseth Nez Pasagad has the most unique background as she graduated Magna Cum Laude with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering,  a male dominated course which she managed to finish with flying colors. Photo courtesy: Miss Bohol

What’s your type of a man?

“I’m a very simple and quirky person so I’d love to be with a man who can jive with my antics without judging me. I also involve myself in a lot of activities and organizations so I’d appreciate a man who is supportive and understanding, someone who’s not possessive nor insecure of my personal endeavors towards self-growth.”

What sort of preparations are you doing for Miss Bohol 2018? Are you also going to be trained (on good grooming, poise, etc.) by a beauty queen?

“I’m currently giving huge importance on understanding my advocacy so I’m working a lot on my feasibility study. Also, I’ve been practicing my walk and poses, and I watch a lot of YouTube videos on how to be more graceful and composed even off-stage. I actually don’t have a formal trainer but I do have a handful of people helping and giving me constructive criticisms.”

 Jesseth Nez Pasagad on coal-fired power
 plant in Bohol: ‘I don’t want to have a coal plant
 in Bohol because I know Bohol has a
 vision to become a prime eco-cultural
destination and that means sustainability.
Having a coal plant in the province
defeats that vision for sustainability
because coal is not sustainable,
 let alone its inevitable negative
environmental impacts.’
Photo courtesy: Miss Bohol

Do you have secrets sustaining your poise, your grace under pressure, especially during the crucial points in any contest?

“I could say that my capability of being comfortable and graceful while under pressure was really honed through a lot of involvement and experience. I did not become this confident with myself overnight. It look a lot of humiliating public speeches and cringe-worthy performances before I really learned how to carry myself with grace and assertiveness. So I guess the secret is to just put yourself out there and step out of your comfort zone. Experience is the best teacher!”

Would you rather be smart but not too beautiful, or beautiful but not too smart?

“ I’d choose to be smart but not too pretty (physically). The perception of beauty is very subjective because we have different standards for what is beautiful. Being smart gives me the opportunity to have an impact on my community by imparting my ideas and knowledge. But being smart alone is not enough. One has to be compassionate as well. Knowledge with compassion, this is the kind of beauty I want for myself.”

Have you always been smart since you were a kid?

“Hmmm. If the context of “smart” here pertains to academics, I could say that I’ve always valued my education ever since I was a kid. And those efforts resulted to honors and recognitions. At an early age I understood how important it is to be educated both in theory and practice. My parents keep me motivated to constantly do my best in everything and I guess it became deep-rooted into my system to always aim high and deep.”

Why did you choose to study Petroleum Engineering?

“I don’t actually have a super great reason why I chose to take up Petroleum Engineering. Just like any other high school graduate, I was also confused on what to study in college. My father influenced me to be in the oil and gas industry, something I never imagined myself to be in. Looking back, I didn’t have a solid reason why I took up the course but now I understand why I ended up here—to be a living example that women can excel even in male-dominated fields, and to give back to my community as a driven and compassionate engineer.”

Was the course difficult?

“Yes! Sleepless nights, hungry mornings, sweat and tears—you name it. The oil and gas industry is a very competitive and past-paced environment, so early on we are trained to be flexible and proficient engineers. This requires a lot of effort and sacrifice plus the struggle in learning the technicalities of the processes. I’m just so glad I was able to finish the course in one piece. Ha!Ha!Ha!”

Are you in favor or against a coal-fired power plant here?

“As an engineer, I am aware of the benefits that a coal plant could potentially give to the province: stable power supply, income and employment. I am not entirely against the whole concept of a coal plant, but I believe it boils down to what we prioritize more as a province. I don’t want to have a coal plant in Bohol because I know Bohol has a vision to become a prime eco-cultural destination and that means sustainability. Having a coal plant in the province defeats that vision for sustainability because coal is not sustainable, let alone its inevitable negative environmental impacts. I am hopeful that Bohol can continue to climb up the ladder of excellence without resorting to these projects. As a province, we should stick to our vision. It’s there to guide us in our future endeavors for Bohol. “

Maybe you have an important message to spread or a cause to advance and you want the Miss Bohol to be a venue or forum for it?

“Right now, I am very thankful that the Miss Bohol pageant has become a platform for me to promote my advocacy, “Pasiga Gikan sa Basura”. I want people to understand that sustainability starts from awareness. I plan to give more talks regarding my advocacy and how the people in my community can help me expand this project.”

Engr. Jesseth Nez Pasagad with her
parents Zosimo and Aileen and siblings
Jairus Zim and Josh Ron Zimon.  Contributed Photo

What qualities of the Boholano youth would you highlight?

“Two distinct Boholano characteristics that I truly appreciate are humility and resiliency. Despite the many challenges we face, we are still able to put a smile on our faces— a true reminder of how our adversities have kept us grounded. We are strong in faith and rich in values, qualities that every Boholano can be proud of.”

How do you deal with bashers on social media?

“Acceptance is the key. Before I joined Miss Bohol, I made sure that I was emotionally ready for all the negative comments. We can’t please everyone, that’s a fact so the best thing to do is just to learn to filter out comments that don’t help you grow. I also avoid being on social media all the time so I don’t get the chance to read those comments from bashers. Hahahaha”

Sexual harassment is very much in the news. What would you advise women so that they could avoid or stop being victimized?

“There are a lot of superficial and sexist things I could say like teach women self-defense or tell them not to wear provocative dresses but I don’t think this really addresses the issue on sexual harassment. Yes, it could avoid sexual assaults but the true solution really lies on proper guidance and understanding especially during the formative years of a child. We should teach our children to respect women and not see them as objects. We should educate both men and women, make them understand that nobody has the right to trespass another person’s body without consent; and if ever you see or know someone who’s violating another person, intervene! We have to help empower each other.”

Young people today are liberated and adventurous, willing to try everything. What's your stand on pre-marital sex?

“We are entitled to our own bodies, this means we decide for ourselves. But, just because we can, doesn’t mean we should. Personally, I don’t look down on people who do engage in pre-marital sex, but I would strongly discourage young people to practice this for a number of reasons, one of which is related to health. There is a growing number of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV cases in the country which are caused by both lack of proper education on safe sex and engaging in multiple sexual partners. Reserving sex after marriage lessens the probability of contracting these illnesses because there is monogamy. And this goes out to both men and women, it’s all fun and games until one gets sick.”

Her advocacy "Pasiga Gikan sa Basura" aims to provide sustainable electrical energy source for
 communities in Bilar using bio-wastes. Photo courtesy: Miss Bohol

What is your stand on divorce in the Philippines?

“For the most part, I do not support divorce because I believe every marriage should be preserved and nurtured despite challenges, so long as there is no abuse in the relationship. The conflict lies on whether there is abuse in the marriage because as an empowered woman, I believe every person deserves the right to free themselves from toxic people. Of course, divorce should not be seen as an easy way out. As much as possible we can try to mend broken relationships through counselling and help treat abusive partners through rehabilitation. Pain in a relationship should not be romanticized, reach out for help if there is something wrong. Perhaps the marriage could still be saved.

Do you think it is about time to have same-sex marriage in the Philippines?

“Being born and raised in a conservative Catholic family, I’ve always believed that everything in life is absolute, including marriage. I have several LGBT friends and over the years of knowing them, I have learned to value their principles in life. This marriage they are fighting for is not because they have no God but rather they believe in a God who is loving and forgiving. I support same-sex marriage because it is clear to me that every couple who wants to move forward with their relationship, no matter the gender, should have the same legal rights as any married couple.”

 What’s your take on the transgender issue. Should transgender be allowed to compete in beauty contests for women?

“The way I see it, people don’t support transgender women to compete in beauty contests (for natural born women) because of either being conservative or competitive. I’d like to address the topic on a competitive standpoint. Being a transgender woman means the person has made alterations in her body: size of the boobs, butt, etc. A certain “customization” has been made which could be unfair to natural-born women who don’t have the means to be at par with the enhancements of a trans woman. This is probably the only issue I have with transgenders entering beauty contests for women.”

You are a petroleum engineer, a brilliant one. Do you also like politics? Your mother Aileen is village councilor of Barangay Zamora in Bilar town.

“ I have been part of several organizations but I don’t think I see myself as a politician. I am still willing to serve the community but in other ways. I guess the “politician genes” passed right through me. HahaHa”

To end this conversation, what do you think is the essence of being a woman?  (Answered with wit and intelligence by India’s Sushmita Sen who won the Miss Universe 1994)

“Over the years, I’ve seen how people perceive the essence of womanhood from being a mother to being a housekeeper. But as an empowered millennial woman, I speak for those women who choose not to give birth and those who wish to pursue their careers than stay at home. Times have changed but one thing will remain the same, we women are instruments for development. Our essence lies in our strength in character to pursue our goals with pride and dignity.”

***

Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.