Monday, December 12, 2011
Early Christmas for Escalante City Senior Citizens
Indigent Senior Citizens of Escalante City have reasons to rejoice after receiving their social pension from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on December 7, 2011 at the City Center. The stipend covering third and fourth quarters of CY 2011 was released through the DSWD Region 6, Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
Ms. Juliet Calamba of the DSWD Region 6 together with OSCA Chairman Mr. Rogelio Prietos and Ms. Leah Juntarciego of CSWDO spearheaded the cash distribution to the 117 recipients. One hundred and seven (107) beneficiaries received three thousand Pesos (P3, 000.00) each whilet he remaining ten (10) collected six thousand pesos (Php 6, 000.00) each being retroactive as of January 2011 or from the First and Second Quarters. The later was approved after methodical deliberations with the Grievance Committee attesting to their qualifications.
This Social Pension Program was an offshoot of the approved R.A. 9994, also known as the “Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010”. The act provides a monthly stipend of five hundred pesos (Php 500.00) to indigent Senior Citizens, given in a quarterly basis to augment their daily subsistence and other medical needs.
The registration started in 2009 where needy residents of 77 years and older were surveyed by the DSWD. This was coordinated with the Escalante City Government through Mayor Beboy Yap. Documented inhabitants were evaluated so as to validate their situations.
On the other hand, Mayor Yap expressed his profound gratitude to this very noteworthy undertaking. He hailed the program with the slogan Nakakatanda: Kaagapay sa Kaunlaran at Kapayapaan that really supported our elders. The thrust does not only sustain their basic needs but also to enjoy life to the fullest. (ECM)
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Escalante City Councilors Receive Prestigious Awards
Three Escalante City Councilors received prestigious awards in different categories on December 1, 2011. Councilors Virgie A. Pastor, Santiago R. MaravillasandManolo P. Mendoza were honored in ceremonies at the CityState Tower Hotel in Manila.
The award was given by the Leaders Consultancy for Expertise and Excellence for their exemplary performance as local lawmakerswho authored several ordinances of any kind. It was also in recognition to their dedication and invaluable commitment for the genuine service to the people they served. In the same way, the awards were to appreciate theirknowledge ability as policymakers in the City of Escalante.
Councilor Pastor, Chairperson on Education, Culture and Values Formation, and Women, Children and Family Welfare, has sponsoredthe most number of ordinances not only for her concerned committees but relevant decrees as well for the betterment of the community. She received the LEGISLATIVE GOVERNANCE EXCELLENCE AWARD for sponsoring nineteen (19) ordinances; these exceeded the number of the required four (4) to qualify for the award. The award thus recognized her as a full-pledged local legislator.
Likewise, Councilor Maravillas prepared numerous ordinances specifically on appropriations, laws, rules and regulations.He alsoauthoredrulingson human rights, social justice and other significant edicts.He was furthermore awarded for having served as councilor for three (3) consecutive terms.
Councilor Mendoza as well received the credits for the invaluable services he rendered to the residents as a lawmaker for three (3) successive periods.
Giving of such honors are based by the award-giving body on the number of ordinances written either general or special, comprehensionon the local laws passed and devotion to the constituents they engaged in. These assets are not new to the Councilor-awardeeswho possess such abilities in helping others with perseverance and determination.
The award was given by the Leaders Consultancy for Expertise and Excellence for their exemplary performance as local lawmakerswho authored several ordinances of any kind. It was also in recognition to their dedication and invaluable commitment for the genuine service to the people they served. In the same way, the awards were to appreciate theirknowledge ability as policymakers in the City of Escalante.
Councilor Pastor, Chairperson on Education, Culture and Values Formation, and Women, Children and Family Welfare, has sponsoredthe most number of ordinances not only for her concerned committees but relevant decrees as well for the betterment of the community. She received the LEGISLATIVE GOVERNANCE EXCELLENCE AWARD for sponsoring nineteen (19) ordinances; these exceeded the number of the required four (4) to qualify for the award. The award thus recognized her as a full-pledged local legislator.
Likewise, Councilor Maravillas prepared numerous ordinances specifically on appropriations, laws, rules and regulations.He alsoauthoredrulingson human rights, social justice and other significant edicts.He was furthermore awarded for having served as councilor for three (3) consecutive terms.
Councilor Mendoza as well received the credits for the invaluable services he rendered to the residents as a lawmaker for three (3) successive periods.
Giving of such honors are based by the award-giving body on the number of ordinances written either general or special, comprehensionon the local laws passed and devotion to the constituents they engaged in. These assets are not new to the Councilor-awardeeswho possess such abilities in helping others with perseverance and determination.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Riverside College Donates Books to Escalante City
The Riverside College Inc., of Bacolod City donated a total of 349 volumes of assorted books in the City of Escalante on November 25, 2011. This is in line with their thrust of delivering education to the grassroots level. It is also their way of extending gratitude to the communities who continue to support and believe in their competence as an academic institution. Ms. Nancy O. Go, Chief Librarian of Riverside College turned over the said books in a simple but very significant ceremony at the Escalante City Library.
City Officials led by Vice Mayor Baby Ampil, City Councilor Virgie Pastor and City Information Officer Vermont Khan Juvahib received the donations. They as well presented a certificate of appreciation for the efforts bestowed by the school to the city for its constituents. The officials likewise thanked the institution for their contribution specifically their advocacy in providing books to the Local Government Units.
City Mayor Beboy Yap, in a separate occasion likewise expressed his profound gratitude on behalf of the people of Escalante. He stressed the magnitude of these books in augmenting the reference materials needed not only by our students but to the professionals as well.
The donated books are now at the Escalante City Library. It will undergo library standard documentation before it will be available to the reading public. (ECM)
Ampingan Ta Kini, Ato Ni.
Escalante City Civil Registrar’s Office Ranks 10th in the National Level
The Escalante City Civil Registrar’s Office (CCRO) was adjudged as Top Performing Office for 2011 by the National Statistics Office (NSO) garnering the 6th spot in the national level. Consistently ranking Number 1 and Number 2 in the Provincial and Regional Levels respectively, the Escalante CCRO was able to hold its competence and obtained the prestigious award.
Diligence, hard work and devotion were the tools that helped a lot in delivering services to the public. With perseverance, the CCRO was able to taste the sweetness of the victories in the local and national levels.
Mayor Beboy Yap and Vice Mayor Baby Ampil led city officials, employees and the people of Escalante in applauding the officers and staffs of this triumphant administrative center. (ECM)
Congratulations!!!
Ampingan Ta Kini, Ato Ni.
Escalante City Holds 4Ps Community Assembly
Escalante City Holds 4Ps Community Assembly
The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Community Assembly will be held on December 15-17, 2011 in the City of Escalante. This is a project of the national government concerning poverty alleviation by helping the poorest of the poor communities. Escalante City has 4,260 potential grantees distributed throughout the 21 barangays. These are supplementary grantees to the 439 initially identified in 2010 in Barangay Old Poblacion. DSWD Region 6 channeled it to the provincial levels and in turn coordinated with the Local Government Units (LGUs).
Escalante City Mayor Beboy Yap received the program with fervor and commitment. Representatives from the government sectors conducted a series of meetings and consultations for the success of this public service endeavor. The City government as well employed its resources in support of the agendum.
Potential beneficiaries were identified through the surveys conducted earlier by the Regional DSWD office. Fourteen years old and below dependents are also qualified. Grantees will undergo a series of evaluations and must comply with all the necessary requirements to qualify for the said program. (ECM)
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Escalante City Launches Danao-Tanquinto River Development Project
The Escalante City Government successfully launched the Danao-Tanquinto River Development Project this morning of November 11, 2011. The affair was well attended by various city government officials and employees, barangay officials, the academe, the religious sectors, the police, the military, stakeholders, special guests and the general community. A fun walk from the Escalante City Center to Danao Port and a river cruise from Danao Port to Tanquinto highlighted the affair.
The 11.11.11 affair is spearheaded by the Danao-Tanquinto River which was created and organized through Executive Order 2011-007 issued by Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr. on September 28, 2011 whose main task is to be the prime mover in initiating activities that will promote the conservation, preservation and development of Danao-Tanquinto River.
The event started with a registration of participants at five thirty in the morning followed by a lively seven-kilometer walk to Danao Port participated in by more or less 1,700 Escalantehanons. A program was prepared to formalize the launching of the said project. Welcome address was given by City Councilor Virgie A. Pastor who was also the Convenor of the Danao-Tanquinto River Development Council (DTRDC). and the background of the project was delivered by CITPEEMO head, Mr. Godofredo R. Reteracion. Messages of support were conveyed by Vice Mayor Ester Ampil and Kgd. Lavinia T. Rios on behalf ABC President Aladino Lumayno, Jr.
Board member Dela Cruz in his message being the Chair on Tourism Development in the Provincial Board stated the impact of this endeavor to the tourism industry not only for Escalante City but for Negros Occidental. Students from various schools thus equally provided entertainment with their prowess in Folk dance numbers.
Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr., expressed his advocacy message citing the significance of this natural heritage. He also cited his fervor in rehabilitating the river and its importance for the generations to come. Mayor Yap likewise led the unveiling of the Conceptual Framework of Danao-Tanquinto River and the signing of support for this very noteworthy event on 11.11.11. A couple of hundreds of participants boarded 11 motorized boats and cruised the 12 km Danao-Tanquinto River.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
NEGROS ACE Official Statement on the NAPOLCOM Resolution involving Mayor Melecio. J. Yap. , Jr.
NEGROS ASSOCIATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVES, INC.
Province of Negros Occidental
c/o Mayor’s Office, Municipality of E.B. Magalona
Tel. No. (034) 4765119
=====================================
RESOLUTION NO. 10
Series of 2011
RESOLUTION STRONGLY OPPOSING THE DIRECTIVE SUSPENDING THE ADMINISTRATIVE AND OPERATIONAL CONTROL OVER THE LCOAL PNP OF ESCALANTE CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL IMPOSED ON MAYOR MELECIO J. YAP, JR. WHICH WAS HASTILY DONE WITHOUT DUE PROCESS AND INVESTIGATION
WHEREAS, on July 15, 2011 the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) issued a resolution order suspending the administrative and operational control of Escalante City Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr. over the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the local government unit;
WHEREAS, it appears that the suspension was hastily promulgated based on unverified report leveled at Mayor Yap since he has not received official copies of complaints filed against him purporting “his close association with the New People’s Army,” and alleged extra-judicial killings that occurred in Escalante City;
WHEREAS, the League of Municipalities/Negros Association of Chief Executive (LMP-ACE) view this development as a dangerous precedent that could befall a city/municipality in that the NAPOLCOM can arbitrarily take away his supervision and control over the local police based on unfounded and flimsy allegations of unknown personalities;
WHEREAS, the same situation could place in quandary to any local chief executive who has been granted supervisory and administrative control over the police; and therefore seeks clarification on the obtaining situation;
WHEREFORE, by Unanimous Consent the League of Municipalities – Negros Association of Chief Executive (LMP-ACE);
RESOLVES AS IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED strongly opposing the directive suspending the administrative and operational control over the local PNP of Escalance City, Negros Occidental imposed on Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr. which was hastily done without due process and investigation;
RESOLVED FURTHER that copies of this resolution are immediately furnished:
1. PCSUPT. CIRPIANO E. QUIROL, JR.
Regional Director, PRO6
Camp Martin Delgado, Iloilo City
2. SSUPT. ALLAN C. GUISIHAN
Provincial Police Director, PNP
NOPPO Camp Alfredo Montelibano, Bacolod City
3. HON. JESSE M. ROBREDO
Secretary, DILG and
Chairman, National Police Commission
Carried by the vote of:
AFFIRMATIVE : Unanimous
NEGATIVE : None
ABSTAINED : None
COMMENT : Passed
Done and dated this 19th day of August, 2011 at Bacolod City, Philippines.
===============
MARXLEN LAWRENCE J. DELA CRUZ
Secretary General, NEGROS ACE
Mayor – Municipality of DS Benedicto
DAVID ALBERT R. LACSON
President, NEGROS ACE
Mayor – Municipality of EB Magalona
Province of Negros Occidental
c/o Mayor’s Office, Municipality of E.B. Magalona
Tel. No. (034) 4765119
=====================================
RESOLUTION NO. 10
Series of 2011
RESOLUTION STRONGLY OPPOSING THE DIRECTIVE SUSPENDING THE ADMINISTRATIVE AND OPERATIONAL CONTROL OVER THE LCOAL PNP OF ESCALANTE CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL IMPOSED ON MAYOR MELECIO J. YAP, JR. WHICH WAS HASTILY DONE WITHOUT DUE PROCESS AND INVESTIGATION
WHEREAS, on July 15, 2011 the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) issued a resolution order suspending the administrative and operational control of Escalante City Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr. over the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the local government unit;
WHEREAS, it appears that the suspension was hastily promulgated based on unverified report leveled at Mayor Yap since he has not received official copies of complaints filed against him purporting “his close association with the New People’s Army,” and alleged extra-judicial killings that occurred in Escalante City;
WHEREAS, the League of Municipalities/Negros Association of Chief Executive (LMP-ACE) view this development as a dangerous precedent that could befall a city/municipality in that the NAPOLCOM can arbitrarily take away his supervision and control over the local police based on unfounded and flimsy allegations of unknown personalities;
WHEREAS, the same situation could place in quandary to any local chief executive who has been granted supervisory and administrative control over the police; and therefore seeks clarification on the obtaining situation;
WHEREFORE, by Unanimous Consent the League of Municipalities – Negros Association of Chief Executive (LMP-ACE);
RESOLVES AS IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED strongly opposing the directive suspending the administrative and operational control over the local PNP of Escalance City, Negros Occidental imposed on Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr. which was hastily done without due process and investigation;
RESOLVED FURTHER that copies of this resolution are immediately furnished:
1. PCSUPT. CIRPIANO E. QUIROL, JR.
Regional Director, PRO6
Camp Martin Delgado, Iloilo City
2. SSUPT. ALLAN C. GUISIHAN
Provincial Police Director, PNP
NOPPO Camp Alfredo Montelibano, Bacolod City
3. HON. JESSE M. ROBREDO
Secretary, DILG and
Chairman, National Police Commission
Carried by the vote of:
AFFIRMATIVE : Unanimous
NEGATIVE : None
ABSTAINED : None
COMMENT : Passed
Done and dated this 19th day of August, 2011 at Bacolod City, Philippines.
===============
MARXLEN LAWRENCE J. DELA CRUZ
Secretary General, NEGROS ACE
Mayor – Municipality of DS Benedicto
DAVID ALBERT R. LACSON
President, NEGROS ACE
Mayor – Municipality of EB Magalona
Monday, August 22, 2011
official statement of the O. Carm. of Escalante City
The official statement of the Carmelite Friars of the Our lady of Mount Carmel College
----------
August 15, 2011
STATEMENT ON THE NAPOLCOM RESOLUTION SUSPENDING THE ADMINISTRATIVE AND OPERATIONAL CONTROL OF MAYOR MELECIO YAP OVER THE POLICE STATION OF ESCALANTE CITY
Observe what is right, do what is just; for my salvation is about to come, my justice, about to be revealed (Isaiah 56:1).
The Resolution for the suspension of the administrative and operational control of Mayor Melecio Yap of Escalante City, Negros Occidental by the NATIONAL POLICE COMMISSION is indeed doing a gross injustice to the people of Escalante when it arbitrarily stripped Mayor Melecio Yap of his function as deputy of the NAPOLCOM to Escalante PNP station without giving him the benefit of an impartial and objective investigation upon arriving at a sound and credible resolution.
The action smacks with shame because it did not merit a full blown investigation. P/Supt. Querol used the Northern Negros Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (NNAHRA) and the communist issue to harass the mayor. But did the Investigating team or P/Supt. Querol bother to ask the church in Escalante to ferret out the truth? We do not know whether the NAPOLCOM and the supposed investigating team is aware that NNAHRA has a Carmelite priest as a chair, in the person of Fr. Gilbert Billena.
Further, NNHRA is also allied with the JPIC or Justice and Peace and Integrity of Creation wherein Fr. Gilbert is also the National Convenor. It is linked also with the different religious congregations and also with the Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines (AMRSP). If P/Supt.Querol, as stated in his report, is claiming that the NNAHRA is a communist group, thus, are they also claiming that Fr Billena, the JPIC National Convenor is likewise a communist?
If P/Supt.Querol sees red on NNAHRA, does it also follow that Mayor Melecio Yap has to be punished because he is supportive of its cause, especially in pursuing truth and justice? It is a known fact that Mayor Yap is very close to the peasants in Escalante. Does this mean that being supportive to the sector is aiding the communist?
It is demoralizing and disappointing to note how a general and gentleman, at that, would tend to forget the essential rights of an individual which manifest a free and democratic society – the very system that the National Police Commission and all police officers are bound to protect and uphold.
The NPA has already claimed responsibility to the extrajudicial killings to those who have blood-debts in Escalante. However, the losing politicians are using the hysteria to malign their political rivals through internet platforms like facebook and other social networking sites including print and broadcast media. Did the NAPOLCOM include this in the investigation?
Were the Human Rights group asked about these malicious allegations? Or for the benefit of having a thorough inquiry, the two parishes administered by the Carmelite Order who are evidently living witnesses of the true and real events in the city? Querol seems not mindful that the Carmelite has been serving Escalante for almost 50 years now.
We, the Carmelite Friars in Escalante City strongly condemned the NAPOLCOM Resolution. We see this as unfair and unjust. We are alarmed that by the act of tagging NNAHRA as a communist group, it consequently endanger the very life and security of our brother priest, Gilbert Billena, the Chairperson as well as Bernardino “Toto” Patigas, the Secretary General.
We also believed that the haste to punish Mayor Melecio Beboy Yap did not go through due process as mandated by our laws and constitution. The groundless, malicious accusation hurled against Mayor Beboy and NNAHRA is a grand design to destroy and put down the administration of Mayor Melecio Beboy Yap and also to stifle the NNAHRA’s advocacy for Justice and Human Rights.
ISSUED BY:
FR. JERRY SABADO, O. CARM
Parish Priest, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish
Escalante City, Negros Occidental
FR. GILBERT BILLENA, O. CARM.
Parish Priest, Saint Francis of Asissi Parish
Old Poblacion, Escalante City, Negros Occidental
FR. GABRIEL DOLOTINA, O. CARM. D.M.EM.
Dean of Collage, Mount Carmel Collage
Escalante City, Negros Occidental
FR. HARRY BLOEM, O. CARM.
PRIOR- Carmelite Community ( Escalante)
Balintawak, Escalante City, Negros Occidental
----------
August 15, 2011
STATEMENT ON THE NAPOLCOM RESOLUTION SUSPENDING THE ADMINISTRATIVE AND OPERATIONAL CONTROL OF MAYOR MELECIO YAP OVER THE POLICE STATION OF ESCALANTE CITY
Observe what is right, do what is just; for my salvation is about to come, my justice, about to be revealed (Isaiah 56:1).
The Resolution for the suspension of the administrative and operational control of Mayor Melecio Yap of Escalante City, Negros Occidental by the NATIONAL POLICE COMMISSION is indeed doing a gross injustice to the people of Escalante when it arbitrarily stripped Mayor Melecio Yap of his function as deputy of the NAPOLCOM to Escalante PNP station without giving him the benefit of an impartial and objective investigation upon arriving at a sound and credible resolution.
The action smacks with shame because it did not merit a full blown investigation. P/Supt. Querol used the Northern Negros Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (NNAHRA) and the communist issue to harass the mayor. But did the Investigating team or P/Supt. Querol bother to ask the church in Escalante to ferret out the truth? We do not know whether the NAPOLCOM and the supposed investigating team is aware that NNAHRA has a Carmelite priest as a chair, in the person of Fr. Gilbert Billena.
Further, NNHRA is also allied with the JPIC or Justice and Peace and Integrity of Creation wherein Fr. Gilbert is also the National Convenor. It is linked also with the different religious congregations and also with the Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines (AMRSP). If P/Supt.Querol, as stated in his report, is claiming that the NNAHRA is a communist group, thus, are they also claiming that Fr Billena, the JPIC National Convenor is likewise a communist?
If P/Supt.Querol sees red on NNAHRA, does it also follow that Mayor Melecio Yap has to be punished because he is supportive of its cause, especially in pursuing truth and justice? It is a known fact that Mayor Yap is very close to the peasants in Escalante. Does this mean that being supportive to the sector is aiding the communist?
It is demoralizing and disappointing to note how a general and gentleman, at that, would tend to forget the essential rights of an individual which manifest a free and democratic society – the very system that the National Police Commission and all police officers are bound to protect and uphold.
The NPA has already claimed responsibility to the extrajudicial killings to those who have blood-debts in Escalante. However, the losing politicians are using the hysteria to malign their political rivals through internet platforms like facebook and other social networking sites including print and broadcast media. Did the NAPOLCOM include this in the investigation?
Were the Human Rights group asked about these malicious allegations? Or for the benefit of having a thorough inquiry, the two parishes administered by the Carmelite Order who are evidently living witnesses of the true and real events in the city? Querol seems not mindful that the Carmelite has been serving Escalante for almost 50 years now.
We, the Carmelite Friars in Escalante City strongly condemned the NAPOLCOM Resolution. We see this as unfair and unjust. We are alarmed that by the act of tagging NNAHRA as a communist group, it consequently endanger the very life and security of our brother priest, Gilbert Billena, the Chairperson as well as Bernardino “Toto” Patigas, the Secretary General.
We also believed that the haste to punish Mayor Melecio Beboy Yap did not go through due process as mandated by our laws and constitution. The groundless, malicious accusation hurled against Mayor Beboy and NNAHRA is a grand design to destroy and put down the administration of Mayor Melecio Beboy Yap and also to stifle the NNAHRA’s advocacy for Justice and Human Rights.
ISSUED BY:
FR. JERRY SABADO, O. CARM
Parish Priest, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish
Escalante City, Negros Occidental
FR. GILBERT BILLENA, O. CARM.
Parish Priest, Saint Francis of Asissi Parish
Old Poblacion, Escalante City, Negros Occidental
FR. GABRIEL DOLOTINA, O. CARM. D.M.EM.
Dean of Collage, Mount Carmel Collage
Escalante City, Negros Occidental
FR. HARRY BLOEM, O. CARM.
PRIOR- Carmelite Community ( Escalante)
Balintawak, Escalante City, Negros Occidental
Sunday, August 14, 2011
official statement of Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr.
Full text of the official statement issued by Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr. during his press conference at Kuppa Cafe, Bacolod City on August 13, 2011 at 2:00pm.
Press Conference at Kuppa Café
of MAYOR MELECIO J. YAP, JR.
August 13, 2011
2:00 pm
STATEMENT
Last Monday, August 8, 2011, I was taken aback when I received the Resolution to suspend and withdraw my deputation or my administrative control and operational supervision over the Escalante Police Station issued by the National Police Commission on July 15, 2011.
This came in during the time when I was anticipating for the supposed investigation to roll over so I’d be given the venue to explain my side and controvert the allegations that were raised against me.
I personally regarded this move as beneficial on my part since it is through this forum that I shall be given the opportunity to confront squarely and fairly all the charges and accusations which my political opponents have proliferated way back and even beyond election period.
Unfortunately, I have never been invited nor anybody from the investigating team has visited my office to give me such opportune time to defend myself and address these issues once and for all. I was not even FORMALLY informed of the existence of these complaints. It is when the series of events implicating people who are close to me began to surface when I have felt the pressure and eventually learned of these supposed investigation.
As we take a closer look on the premises considered in the Resolution, it appears that the investigation has not maximized nor explored all possible means to come up with a fair resolution, not even an impartial investigation. The “confidential report” of PRO 6 Regional Director PCSUPT CIPRIANO E. QUEROL, JR., AL HAJ formed an integral part of the resolution.
On my alleged close association and tactical alliance with Northern Negros Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (NNAHRA) and Mr. Bernardino “Toto” Patigas, a known Human Rights supporter, I personally don’t see any reason why should I limit myself from extending the services of the government to our constituents who promote social reforms and authentic justice. We have to understand that the organizations where they belong are legitimate cause-oriented groups and should not be unfairly tagged as communist groups.
I vehemently and firmly DENY the report regarding the giving of caliber pistol and weapons to the NPA hit squad to eliminate Carapali Lualhati of the RPA/ABB. As a matter of fact, there is no problem whatsoever between me and Carapali Lualhati.
On the report that NPA hitmen “sought refuge at the fishpond owned by Mayor Yap”, this is indeed a very loaded accusation. I just doubt if they have the evidence to substantiate this claim. May I ask, which fishpond are they referring to?
It was mentioned in the report that Regional Director Honey Paredes verified the reports of Extra-judicial killings in Escalante City as enumerated in the confidential report of P/CSupt. Querol. It may then be appropriate to inquire if there are truths to these allegations, then why is there no case, criminal or administrative, filed against me? These claims should have been supported with authentic evidences and should have been disclosed in the Resolution.
As to date, I have not been charged criminally or administratively in any forum regarding “illegal activities” other than this particular incident.
May I also inquire how NAPOLCOM Regional Director Paredes did verify the veracity of the report when I have not known any investigation that took place within the territorial jurisdiction of Escalante City?
There is no truth to the report that there was no comment from Congressman Julio A. Ledesma, III of the 1st District of Negros Occidental because he even personally objected to the proposed suspension of deputation.
As the resolution invoked provisions in the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998, and DILG Act of 1990, may I inquire if they have substantial evidence and proof that will support their claim that I have indeed violated some of its provisions?
If there are, then I challenge you to take the necessary and the most appropriate action so I may have the chance to defend myself in the proper court.
Needless to say, the inquiry was conducted unilaterally, without giving me a chance to present my side and without even informing me of the complaint against my person, thus, violating my fundamental right as a human and dignity as a person. Apparently, I became a victim of human rights violation which we suppose, an act that the present administration, grossly abhor and owe to protect.
I may have been silent in the past because I believe that no amount of political intimidation shall hinder me in as I serve my fellow Escalantehanon. However, I believe that this is the right time to set all records straight. I don’t want to dignify the harassment that I am experiencing right now by not allowing the truth to come out.
Thank you.
Press Conference at Kuppa Café
of MAYOR MELECIO J. YAP, JR.
August 13, 2011
2:00 pm
STATEMENT
Last Monday, August 8, 2011, I was taken aback when I received the Resolution to suspend and withdraw my deputation or my administrative control and operational supervision over the Escalante Police Station issued by the National Police Commission on July 15, 2011.
This came in during the time when I was anticipating for the supposed investigation to roll over so I’d be given the venue to explain my side and controvert the allegations that were raised against me.
I personally regarded this move as beneficial on my part since it is through this forum that I shall be given the opportunity to confront squarely and fairly all the charges and accusations which my political opponents have proliferated way back and even beyond election period.
Unfortunately, I have never been invited nor anybody from the investigating team has visited my office to give me such opportune time to defend myself and address these issues once and for all. I was not even FORMALLY informed of the existence of these complaints. It is when the series of events implicating people who are close to me began to surface when I have felt the pressure and eventually learned of these supposed investigation.
As we take a closer look on the premises considered in the Resolution, it appears that the investigation has not maximized nor explored all possible means to come up with a fair resolution, not even an impartial investigation. The “confidential report” of PRO 6 Regional Director PCSUPT CIPRIANO E. QUEROL, JR., AL HAJ formed an integral part of the resolution.
On my alleged close association and tactical alliance with Northern Negros Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (NNAHRA) and Mr. Bernardino “Toto” Patigas, a known Human Rights supporter, I personally don’t see any reason why should I limit myself from extending the services of the government to our constituents who promote social reforms and authentic justice. We have to understand that the organizations where they belong are legitimate cause-oriented groups and should not be unfairly tagged as communist groups.
I vehemently and firmly DENY the report regarding the giving of caliber pistol and weapons to the NPA hit squad to eliminate Carapali Lualhati of the RPA/ABB. As a matter of fact, there is no problem whatsoever between me and Carapali Lualhati.
On the report that NPA hitmen “sought refuge at the fishpond owned by Mayor Yap”, this is indeed a very loaded accusation. I just doubt if they have the evidence to substantiate this claim. May I ask, which fishpond are they referring to?
It was mentioned in the report that Regional Director Honey Paredes verified the reports of Extra-judicial killings in Escalante City as enumerated in the confidential report of P/CSupt. Querol. It may then be appropriate to inquire if there are truths to these allegations, then why is there no case, criminal or administrative, filed against me? These claims should have been supported with authentic evidences and should have been disclosed in the Resolution.
As to date, I have not been charged criminally or administratively in any forum regarding “illegal activities” other than this particular incident.
May I also inquire how NAPOLCOM Regional Director Paredes did verify the veracity of the report when I have not known any investigation that took place within the territorial jurisdiction of Escalante City?
There is no truth to the report that there was no comment from Congressman Julio A. Ledesma, III of the 1st District of Negros Occidental because he even personally objected to the proposed suspension of deputation.
As the resolution invoked provisions in the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998, and DILG Act of 1990, may I inquire if they have substantial evidence and proof that will support their claim that I have indeed violated some of its provisions?
If there are, then I challenge you to take the necessary and the most appropriate action so I may have the chance to defend myself in the proper court.
Needless to say, the inquiry was conducted unilaterally, without giving me a chance to present my side and without even informing me of the complaint against my person, thus, violating my fundamental right as a human and dignity as a person. Apparently, I became a victim of human rights violation which we suppose, an act that the present administration, grossly abhor and owe to protect.
I may have been silent in the past because I believe that no amount of political intimidation shall hinder me in as I serve my fellow Escalantehanon. However, I believe that this is the right time to set all records straight. I don’t want to dignify the harassment that I am experiencing right now by not allowing the truth to come out.
Thank you.
Monday, July 18, 2011
City Government Delivers More Social Services to Escalantehanons
Free Clinic Program for City Hall Employees – Mayor Beboy Yap of Escalante City brought back its free Clinic and consultation program together with ECGEM, also known as Escalante City Government Employees Cooperative, Inc. this time, for the officials, employees and staff of the City held at the 2nd floor of the City Gov’t. Center last Friday, July 8, 2011.
A team from The Doctor’s Hospital, Bacolod City came over headed by Dr. Nicanor V. Vargas III to conduct various medical tests for more or less 150 patients. Services conducted for free were Glucose testing (FBS and RBS), Cholesterol screening, foot screening, chemical testing for urine, ECG (Echocardiogram) and consultation. A mobile pharmacy was also made available for the members who would like to avail of the medicines. They were assisted by the nurses and staff of the City Health Office.
Mr. Fred Reteracion, the chairman of ECGEM said that this endeavor will become a monthly program for ECGEM and the City Gov’t. of Escalante for the city employees especially those members of the cooperative.
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Social pension distribution for the senior citizens – 107 senior citizens who are 77 years old and above received their social pension, utensils for supplemental feeding program and cash for work/training last July 14, 2011 at the 2nd floor of the City Government Center.
This program was spearheaded by the City Social Welfare and Development Office in cooperation with the national and provincial social welfare office. Mayor Beboy Yap together with Vice Mayor Ampil and City Administrator Rolando P. Ponsica attended the opening ceremony and assured the senior citizens sector to always have a special attention under Mayor Beboy’s governance.
Mr. Rogelio Prietos, Executive Assistance IV and president of the Senior Citizens Organization together with City Consultant Mr. Francisco Pios, Jr. assisted the city officials in the distribution of the benefits.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
ESCALANTE CITY@10 WRAPS UP FEBRUARY WITH CHARTER CELEBRATION
ESCALANTE CITY: The 10th Charter Day Celebration of Escalante City was staged last February 27-28, 2011. The two-day festivities were opened with a Holy Mass at Mount Carmel College sponsored by the City Government on the 1st day followed by the 4th Cheeri Dance Competition among elementary and secondary schools. Escalante Central Elementary School and Escalante National High School bagged the Grand Prize in their respective categories. The day was closed with the talent competition of the 10 candidates on Lin-ay sa Escalante at the public plaza for the selection of the top 3 slots that will compete for the best in talent during the coronation night the following day. A night cap was held with 13-Inch Band of Bacolod City lead the body-shake until the wee hours in the morning.
The 2nd day was highlighted by the three major activities namely, the Kasalan ng Bayan spearheaded by the City Civil Registrar in line with the National Civil Registry Month. It’s a unique wedding ceremony this time considering that Catholic Couples were solemnized by a priest at Mount Carmel Parish Church while the non-Catholic was solemnized by a pastor at the City Hall. Reception program was held at the Public Plaza. The afternoon were teemed with youngsters as the SK Federation managed an SK Afternoon of Dance Competition while at the Social Hall a skill Olympics was in progressed hosted by the PESO (City Public Employment Service Office). The winner for the Table skirting was Brgy Dian-ay, for the Make Over was Brgy Old Poblacion, Cake Decoration was Brgy. Balintawak while the best web page design was won by Edlem Deanon.
Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr., who was on official trip to Vietnam presented his i2011 Update on Selected Areas Update on Selected Areas on the State of the Local Governance of Escalante for CY 2010 which was was aired at 7:00 PM at the Public Plaza as Pre- Coronation highlights. The humble mayor in his stressed on the developmental projects that was accomplished and to be implemented. He also encouraged Escalantehanon to cooperate with the administration for more participative governance which he envisioned since day one of his term.
The celebration was topped with the coronation of the Lin-ay sa Escalante. Ms Cindy Aislyn Tolentino of Brgy Dian-ay representing Brgys Magsaysay, Tamlang, Binaguiohan and Dian-ay was unanimously adjudged for the crown with Ms Cristy Mae Mendoza of Brgy Mabini was the 1st Runner-up. Ms. Shiela Mae Agabon who represented Brgys. Buenavista, Rizal, Japitan and Langub was the 2nd runner-up. Ms Tolentino bagged also the Best in Talent, Best in Interview, Best in Production Number and Miss Natasha while Ms. Mendoza was the Miss Congeniality, Best in Swim Suit and Best in Evening Gown. Miss Agabon pocketed the best in Festival Costume while Ms Gigi Agsoy was the Miss Photogenic. Miss Rhea Agabon was awarded as Ms Ever Bilena.
The 2nd night was concluded with a party band, Route88 of Bacolod City, which left all the young and old alike in festive mood until the early hours of March 1.
CCRO CONDUCTS KASALAN NG BAYAN 2011
The Office of the City Civil Registrar of the Escalante City conducted the KASALAN NG BAYAN last February 28, 2011 at Escalante Central Elementary School Gym in celebration of the 10th Charter Anniversary of the City with the theme “Escalante 10: Celebrating a Decade of Triumph and Transformation”.
Acting City Mayor Hon. Ester M. Ampil with City Councilors congratulated the Ninety Four (94) newly -wed couples before their Parents, Principal Sponsors, and Relatives Mayor Melecio J. Yap, Jr. is in a working trip in the Republic of Vietnam and his full support of the activity. Together with the Acting Mayor Ampil were SP Virgie A. Pastor, SP Eddie P. Villalon, SP Noli F. Mendoza, SP Alfonso A. Francisco and SP Romeo B. Torres.
There were two venues for this year’s KASALAN, the civil wedding rite officiated by Acting Mayor Ester Ampil at the ECES Gym and the catholic mass wedding at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish Church officiated by Rev. Fr. Jerry Sabado, O. Carm.
Regional Director of NSO Region V1, Engr. Norman R. Julag-ay and the NSO Provincial Statistics Officer of the Province of Negros Occidental, Engr. Fred S. Sollesta graced the said event. The Regional Director in his message emphasized to the newly-wed couples the importance of getting married either by License or Article 34. He further explained the requirements of Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) to foreigners who intent to marry here in the Philippines and likewise the effect of marriages that happened after the birth of the child which has a legitimizing effect on the child’s birth registration.
This endeavor is in line with CCR’s celebration of Civil Registration Month 2011 being held every February with a theme “Quality Civil Registration in Support of National Development Goal”, In this 80th year of celebration, CCRO held an ahead free civil registration inside the office last Friday, February 25, 2011.
Prepared by: THELMA G. FRANCISCO
City Civil Registrar
Escalante City
March 4, 2011
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