Mahinog Municipal Council thanks Fr. Scott Escanilla for parish service

Rev. Fr. Ismael Scott N. Escanilla

IN A motion presented by Councilor Liberato E. Babanto and unanimously approved by all members, the Municipal Council here passed a resolution commending and thanking Rev. Fr. Ismael Scott N. Escanilla, SSJV for his outstanding leadership, performance and selfless dedication as parish priest of the St. Michael Archangel Parish of Mahinog, Camiguin.

After three years as parish priest in Mahinog, Camiguin, Rev. Fr. Ismael Scott N. Escanilla will be transferred to St. Joseph the Worker Parish of Salay, Misamis Oriental.

The reassignment was due to the reshuffling of all priests in the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro.

Fr. Scott, as he is fondly called, is credited for his numerous accomplishments now serving as legacies of his stint in Mahinog.

These are the fencing of the right side of the convent including the renovation of the kitchen and rooms, the repair of priest’s room, and the improvement of church floor tiles.

Also to his credit is the body repair of priest service vehicle Suzuki Samurai, construction of keyboard wooden casing, and purchase of one unit Sumo generator set.

The latest to be inaugurated among his big projects is the construction of the new formation center and construction of spandrel ceiling inside the church.

According to the resolution, local officials noted the dynamism of the partnership and cooperation between the local government and the Roman Catholic church under the helm of Fr. Scott as Parish Priest.

The resolution put a premium on the fact that apart from the imposing structural development he helped establish, parishioners also acknowledged Fr. Scott’s significant contribution to the spiritual, social and civic development of the parish and the municipality.

The resolution was signed by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle and approved by Mayor Alex R. Jajalla.

Mahinog has new priest now in the person of Fr. Pete Ubalde, SSJV.

Mahinog National High School to be renamed Sixto A. Abao National High School

Late Mayor Sixto Abao

THE Mahinog Municipal Council has unanimously voted to pass a resolution endorsing the renaming of Mahinog National High School in barangay Hubangon after the late mayor Sixto A. Abao.

This after Camiguin Representative Pedro P. Romualdo filed House Bill No. 6915 known as an "Act Changing the name of Mahinog National High School in barangay Hubangon, Municipality of Mahinog, Province of Camiguin to Sixto A. Abao National High School."

Romualdo said the present Mahinog National High School was established through the efforts of the late mayor Sixto A. Abao who is known for his deep concern and passion in education. 

It is the clamor of the residents of Mahinog that in order to perpetuate the memory of the late Sixto A. Abao,  the Mahinog National High School in barangay Hubangon be renamed in his honor, Romualdo said in the bill’s explanatory note.

During the creation of Mahinog as a town in July 1, 1948 by virtue of Executive Order No. 122 of President Manuel L. Roxas, then mayor Sixto A. Abao had shown us the importance of education in his own barangay when he chose the Mahinog High School, the first secondary public school in the island of Camiguin, to be established in his native barangay of Hubangon instead of the town hall and seat of government of Mahinog to be established in his barangay, the members of the Municipal Council said in their resolution endorsing the bill.

Through the effort of then mayor Sixto A. Abao, the family of Cabeza Celedeno Abao, his close relative, agreed to an exchange of property where the said school was established and that the house made of hardwood owned by the latter became the original structure of the school, the resolution added.

“Firstly, we honor the late Sixto A. Abao for his outstanding achievement and exemplary work as the first Mayor of the town of Mahinog.”

“Secondly, we honor this man for his burning passion for education and commitment to public service that led to the establishment of the first secondary public school in Camiguin now known as Mahinog National High School in barangay Hubangon,” the resolution said.

Once HB No. 6915 becomes a law, the newly established Mahinog National High School II in barangay Poblacion will be automatically renamed Mahinog National High School. (HRJ)

Mahinog lauds local police for outstanding achievements

Mahinog Police Station 

THE Municipal Council of Mahinog recently commended the municipal police station for their unrelenting efforts in making sure that the municipality is a very safe place to live.

The award was given to members of the Mahinog Police Station after the flag raising ceremony on Monday. 

Authored by Hon. Erlindo G. Bequilla, chairman of the committee on peace and order, fire and public safety, the resolution was signed by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle and approved by Mayor Alex R. Jajalla.

Police Inspector Lemuel S. Sabanal

“Through the relentless efforts of the Mahinog Police Station under Police Inspector Lemuel S. Sabanal, Chief of Police, the peace and order situation of the whole municipality remains undisturbed, peaceful, safe to live and do business,” the resolution states.

The MPS has been active in their police community relations activities which include earthquake drill, random check points, law enforcement enhancement seminars, barangay peace action team trainings, symposium regarding child related laws, illegal drugs and illegal gambling, including tree planting activities, and feeding program.

Through heightened police visibility, a handful of crime incidents were only recorded.

“Maximum police visibility was observed through the beat patrol system which aims to deter criminality within the municipality,” the resolution states.

“Crime incidents were constrained at the lowest level due to the crime prevention efforts undertaken by the said police station with the participation of the local government unit, other government agencies and the community in the campaign against criminality,” the resolution notes.

“The accomplishment of Mahinog Police Station under Police Inspector Lemuel S. Sabanal is another proof that the police is doing their best to ensure the safety and protection of the residents,” the resolution states.

“This recognition of the exemplary performance of Mahinog Police Station under Police Inspector Lemuel S. Sabanal, Chief of Police will surely uplift the morale of the personnel of the said police station,” the members of the municipal council said.

President Aquino signs into law Mahinog National High School II

PRESIDENT Benigno Aquino III has signed into law a bill establishing a national high school in barangay Poblacion in the municipality of Mahinog, province of Camiguin to be known as Mahinog National High School II.

Camiguin Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo, the principal author of the new law, said the Chief Executive has inked Republic Act 10234 or Mahinog National High School II law last October 29, 2012.

He said the new law responds to the clamor from parents and community leaders to provide free public secondary education to our young students in Mahinog and in the peripheral barangays of Guinsiliban as well as Mambajao.

RA 10234 shall take effect 15 days after its publication in any newspaper of general circulation. The new law is already posted in the Official Gazette. http://www.gov.ph/2012/10/29/republic-act-no-10234/

Earlier, the Municipal Council of Mahinog passed Municipal Ordinance No. 2011-136 to acquire or whenever necessary expropriate the private properties owned by Grace & Josefina C. Kempis, Luz Densing and Prudencia Vivares all located in Poblacion to be used as school site for the proposed Mahinog National High School II.

Under the new law, the Secretary of the Department of Education was directed to include in the Department's program the operationalization of the Mahinog National High School II and the funding of which shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

Mahinog declares award-winning choreographer as adopted son

Harold B. Antallan

MAHINOG, Camiguin – Award winning choreographer Harold Beldas Antallan is now an adopted son of the municipality of Mahinog in the Province of Camiguin.

This was after the Municipal Council of Mahinog unanimously approved on Monday a resolution declaring the Lanzones Festival acclaimed choreographer from Surigao City as an adopted son of Mahinog.

The resolution which was authored by Councilor Rey Lawrence K. Tan was attested by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle and approved by Mayor Alex R. Jajalla.

The move was in recognition of Antallan’s achievement for bringing the municipality of Mahinog to four champion titles and hall of Famer of Camiguin Lanzones Festival.

“For the fame and honor he brought to the municipality as trainor and choreographer to our contingents, he deserved to be declared an adopted son of the municipality,” the resolution said.

“The Municipality is very grateful for the services he extended as a choreographer of Mahinog for five years since 2008 up to the present and during these years that he trained our contingent we always won in the Lanzones Festival,” the resolution noted.

“He has made every Mahinognon really proud and happy,” the resolution added.

“Mahinog being a fourth time champion is a feat achieved by no other in the province in the 33 years of Lanzones Festival,” the resolution noted.

“Winning the Lanzones Festival this year is again the confirmation of what Mahinog is known for, the home of the champions and town of the best people,” the resolution noted.

“Giving his unwavering dedication, profound and high regard to the municipality, behooves upon us to adopt Harold Antillan as beloved son of the municipality of Mahinog,” the resolution said.

Antallan, blessed with creativity and talent, also won multiple championship titles in Paladong Festival in Hinatuan in Surigao del Norte 7^th times and in Sinulog sa Dapa in the municipality of Dapa in Surigao del Norte 5^th times.

Before he became choreographer of Mahinog in 2008, Antallan was the dance master of another Surigaonon choreographer Randel B. Ruaya when Fatima College of Camiguin dancers represented the province of Camiguin in the famed Sinulog Festival in 2006 and brought home the championship title in the free interpretation category.

Antallan, as choreographer, also became the grand prize winner for his contingents he handled in other major dance festivals like Bonok-Bonok Festival in Surigao City, Sangyaw in Tacloban, Kahimunan in Butuan City, Serong Festival in Dinagat Province, Lukaylukay Festival in Burgos, Surigao del Norte, Bakhaw Festival in del Carmen, Surigao del Norte, and many others.

In 2011 he also choreographed the Camiguin Cultural Group to the Pasundayag Northern Mindanao “Power 10” at Mall of Asia, Pasay City organized by the Department of Tourism.

Antallan finished his Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Management and Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education at Northeastern Mindanao Colleges (Nemco), Surigao City.

Born and raised in Libuac, a barangay in Surigao City, Harold is the eight of nine children, whose family runs a fishing boat venture in their place.

In 2002 after a brief stint as high school teacher in Nemco, Harold focused on choreography. He quickly gained popularity after a contingent that he choreographed in “Banuahon Festival” in Mat-i, Surigao City won the grand prize.

“Before sa Mat-i daghan nakoy nadag-an wala lang nako na dumduman unsa to nga mga festival kay at that time nag focus paman ko sa pag skuyla,” Harold recalled.

He said he started doing choreography in 1997 when he was in college and the first contingent that he handled was his birthplace barangay Libuac in Bonokbonok Festival barangayanon category which was awarded second place, best in costume and street dancing.

With such a jump in popularity, a blogsite for Bonokbonok Marajaw Karajaw Festival described Harold Antallan as “one of Surigao's main weapon in the field of dance festival.” 
http://bonokbonokfestival.blogspot.com/2009/07/harold-antallan-next-val-lusada.html

“Murag kulba kaayo sa ako nga part kay main weapon man jud diay ko (laugh), Harold replied when asked about how did he feel being described as “Surigao’s main weapon in the field of dance festival”. 

“In short naka salalay sa ako ang mga umaabot nga kadungganan sa amo syudad in the field of arts, in my part as long as maayo pa ang lawas ug daghan pa mga maayo nga mga idea mo flash sa ako mind padayon pa gihapon ang pag hatag dungog sa ako syudad with God’s guidance,” Harold added.

Considered also as a “trend setter of festival” in Mindanao and Surigao, he said he worked under pressure just to live up to others expectations.

“Pressured sa ako part nga ang mga Surigaonon nag expect nga pag uli namo sa Surigao, we can bring home the bacon and that’s my promise to my beloved Surigaonon that we strive to bring pride and fame to our beloved city,” Harold said.

“Every year mag biyahe me paingun sa Camiguin start me sa alas dos sa kadlawon, since my house is around the city proper muagi jud me sa tunga sa syudad going to bus terminal, tulog pa tanan Surigaonon makig storya ko sa Surigao sa hunahuna nga ako e promise nga magdala me pag uli sa trophy usahay maka cry ko sa hilom while nag hunahuna,” Harold added.

Asked what is his technique of being an award-winning choreographer, Harold answered most of the important things are unity, hard work, dedication and Christ centered contingent.

He added time management is also an important thing because we have target dates to be accomplished.

“One week before the final finished na tanan… 3 am nako mag sleep while on the period of mounting the choreography para maka plan unsa napud ako e apply for the next rehearsal. Just like a teacher mag lesson plan gyud,” Harold explained.

Asked being a 4th time champion what it did for him and for the municipality as well, Harold answered:

“Speaking on a personal note, winning is always a sweet achievement and great source of pride,” he said.

“I guess same goes for the town of Mahinog, for CSMPHS and the students,” he added. He said it is because he believes that that for the past four years “our collective efforts, hard work and determination have fostered discipline, unity and friendship among all sectors involved, the local officials, the school, the community, and the trainors alike."

Antallan said Mahinog is already his second home not only because of the good response of the participants to him but also the warm support of all Mahinognons.

Harold Antallan is working with the following production assistants: Assistant Choreographer - Cyril Biasong; Dance Masters - Jayson Villarante, Lester Culdora, Jackpol Casinillo, Gino Sagrado; Musical Director - Jaymar Villarosa; Assistant Musical Director -  Dondick Taliman and Benjie Seraspe; Liaison Officer - Vergelio P Dy; Writer -  Junnar "Ybong" Garrido; Make Up Artist- Mutya Caballes.

Mahinog to ask funds from national government to rebuild infrastructure damaged by flashfloods

THE Municipal Planning and Development Office here reported that the estimated cost for rehabilitation or total reconstruction of public infrastructure damaged by flashfloods amounted to P218,400,000.00

This was according to municipal planning and development coordinator Engr. Benito C. Paderanga who appeared at the Sangguniang Bayan session on Monday to present the DANA (Disaster Analysis and Needs Assessment) report to the legislative council.

Last July 26, 2012, parts of the municipality were flooded due to non stop rains and a total of 344 families or 1,209 persons have been displaced by the flashfloods.

Water distribution systems have been damaged by floods, resulting in about 90 percent of the population in the affected barangays to be waterless.

Parts of barangay San Roque and Poblacion were submerged in floodwater after river control dikes collapsed, causing immediate flooding in rice field areas and homes located near river banks.

Other affected barangays include Owakan, Pontod, Benoni, San Jose and Hubangon.

Municipal agriculturist Sospis Leo Tabuan said that the damage on irrigation facilities made it difficult for farmers to be able to plant this cropping season.

In a resolution passed by the Sanguniang Bayan, the municipal government has requested Congressman Pedro P. Romualdo and Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo to make representation with the national government to extend financial assistance to rebuild infrastructure damaged by the recent flashfloods.

Among the projects include the rehabilitation of box culvert and reconstruction of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) in sitio Comon in barangay Pontod in the amount of four hundred thousand pesos (P400, 000.00).

Rehabilitation of box culvert and reconstruction of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) in sitios Langcangan and Jang in barangay Poblacion (Divine Mercy Chapel) in the amount of three hundred thousand pesos (P300, 000.00).

Construction of Reinforced Concrete Deck Girder (RCDG) in sitios Langcangan and Jang in barangay Poblacion (Divine Mercy Chapel) in the amount of P50 million.

Reconstruction/construction of river control dike at barangay San Roque in the amount of P10 million.

Construction of additional river control dike (both sides) at barangay San Roque in the amount of P150 million.

Reconstruction of damaged Irrigation System at barangays Poblacion and San Roque in the amount of P7 million.

Rehabilitation of damaged waterworks system in barangays Poblacion, Benoni, Hubangon, San Jose, San Roque, Pontod and Owakan in the amount seven hundred thousand pesos (P700,000.00). Homer R. Jajalla

Municipal Council passes resolution granting “Camiguin Ning Dughan” official recognition

Councilor Liberato "Liber" E. Babanto during the Mahinog charter day celebration July 1, 2012 where he recited his own  poem entitled, "Camiguin ning dughan."

Mahinog, Camiguin - The Municipal Council here recently approved a resolution granting “Camiguin Ning Dughan” official recognition of the municipality of Mahinog in the province of Camiguin.

The poem was composed by Liberato E. Babanto, member of the 18th municipal council.

The resolution says the words in the poem “Camiguin Ning Dughan" gives an accurate description of the gifts of nature, charm and heritage of the province of Camiguin that few places possess and attract people from all over the globe.

“The writer does a good job of portraying the homely qualities found in Camiguin, the same qualities where one finds in a good home -- beauty, joy, security and prosperity,” the resolution reads.

“Granting this poem official recognition will be helpful in maintaining a common bond of pride and love for every Camiguingnon in their home island province of Camiguin, a beautiful island blessed with natural attractions, warm, very friendly and hospitable people,” the resolution notes.

“The poem expresses the hopes, ambitions and pride of the people of the Mahinog, Camiguin; now therefore be it resolved, That Sangguniang Bayan  of Mahinog (Municipal Council) hereby grants “Camiguin Ning Dughan” composed by Liberato E. Babanto official recognition of the municipality of Mahinog, Camiguin,” the council declares.

Liberato E. Babanto, a long time and acclaimed public servant, is a gifted poet and has written many encouraging and inspiring poems and several of those formed part of the record of the Municipal Council.

Full text of the poem:

CAMIGUIN NING DUGHAN

Balak ni Liberato "Liber" E. Babanto

Pamalandungan ta ang tubig nga nagdagayday sa kasapaan

Mahilom ug malinawon dha sa kagabhion

Dili angayan kahadlokan ang kangitngit

Kon may makita kang bitoon sa kalangitan

Himoa kining dan-ag sa imong giagian

Ug kon may makita kang gabon sa kapanganuran

Hinumdumi ang gabon kong mahimong ulan

Sama usab sa tubig sa kasapaan

Sukda niini ang giladmon

diha sa imong kaugalingon

Sama niining balak Mahinognon

Nagaulohan "Camiguin Ning Dughan"

Isla nga mugna sa kinaiyahan

Gipalibutan sa matin-aw halapad kadagatan

Bulawanong hiyas o gawi sa mga katawhan

Mapahiyumon matahum kababayen-an

Kinaiyanhong mga gasa sa palibot gitugahan

Halos anaa ang tanan

Kon sa halayong dapit pagalantawon

Napahimutang kini nga labing malinawon

Nagkurba-kurba nga kabungturan

Berde nga mga kabukiran

Maoy larawan motapot sa panumduman.

Nagkadaiyang tubig niini ang mibuhagay

Gawas sa mga mahabog nga busay

Anaay maaslom, mabugnaw ug mainit sa kanunay

Andam ug tagana gamiton aron magdalit ug kalipay

Sumala sa mga maalamon

Pito ka bulkan ang naangkon

Duha lamang ang nagmadasigon

Dihang tuig 1871 bulan kadto sa Mayo

Karaan Vulcan sa Bonbon, Catarman miboto

Ug 1951 Vulcan Hibok-hibok mibuga sa mainit nga lava

Usa sa pinakasikat nga prutas mao ang lanzones

Gibantog tibook kalibutan usa's pinakatam-is

Busa kapatagan man o kabungturan

Gidasig ang tanan lanzones matamnan

Lanzones Festival usa's pinakadakong kasaulogan

Sa mga Kamiguingnon gitambayayongan

Nagkadaiyang sector nagtampohan

Aron pag-apil sa mga kalihokan

Panahon sa mahal nga adlaw Kamiguin ang puntarya

Sa mga lumad o dumuduong aron paglibot sa isla

Ug kon mahapitan mo ang estasyon sa Krus didto sa Walkway

Agi'g paghandum sa sakripisyo sa bukid sa kalbaryo

Imo usab dayon malantaw ang dakung Krus sa nalubog nga sementeryo

Concreto nga kadalanan gipalibutan

Apil pa gani ang mga barangay sa kabukiran

Nahitabo kini sa mga Romualdo nga pamunuan

Suportado sa mga katawhan

Dugay nang gipangandoy zipline miabot sa katumanan

Benoni Taquines Lagoon ang napahimutangan

J & A fisphen nga pagdumala

Dugang pagdani sa mga turista

Duha ka isla sa Mantigue ug White Island

Gihandom sa mga dumudoong madalikyatan

Katahum sa palibot imong masaksihan

Apil pa ang ilalom sa kadagatan

Salamat sa mga pamunuan ug agencia hingtungdan

Mga naupaw nga dapit sa kakahoyan gipangtamnan

Proteksyon kini sa kinaiyahan ug katalagman

Resulta nga madali pagbag-o sa kapanahunan

Mabuhay Camiguin yuta kong natawhan

Gugma ug pagmahal nahipatik ning dughan

Kon ugaling ikaw pasipad-an

Bugtong kong kinabuhi ikaw akong halaran.

Port authorities urged to restore Benoni lighthouse

Benoni Lighthouse

IN A RESOLUTION filed by Councilor Erlindo G. Bequilla, the Municipal Council here asked the Philippine Coast Guard in Northern Mindanao to restore at once the Benoni lighthouse to its original condition.

The Benoni Port Lighthouse which stands at Punta San Roque in the municipality of Mahinog was constructed in late 1980’s to guide fishermen and seafarers during night time and during stormy weather situations, among others.

Bequilla said it has been a long time since the said lighthouse stopped being functional.

He said Benoni Port was not only a major port in the province of Camiguin but also served a safe harbor for ships during stormy weather.

In addition, the council also asked the Philippine Ports Authority to restore the two channel buoys located along the Benoni channel back to its original condition.

The two lighted buoys which were installed to guide vessels entering or leaving Benoni port, were also found to be not fully functional.

"These channel markers broke down and did not serve its purpose due to lack of maintenance," Bequilla observed.

He said being an all-weather- port, it is necessary to keep the lighthouse and channel buoys functional at all times to ensure boating safety during nighttime.

Bequilla was a former ship captain before he became a town councilor of Mahinog.

Mahinog town councilor Erlindo G. Bequilla

Mahinog gets 15 new trash bins from MCC

MAHINOG, Camiguin - More than 15 garbage containers have been received by this municipality from Mambajao Credit Cooperative (MCC) as part of its commitment to provide a greener, healthier, more cost-effective waste management system for the province of Camiguin.

The donation was also in support of the Lex’s Clean Mahinog Program of this municipality.

The municipal council on Monday passed a resolution to express the municipality’s appreciation and gratitude to Mambajao Credit Cooperative (MCC) for such donation.

The donation does not only help produce a clean environment, it also establishes a sense of civic mindedness towards environment, Councilor Liberato E. Babanto, the resolution's principal author, said.

It also raises people’s awareness to keep our town clean and pleasant place to live in, the resolution added.

The council said MCC definitely deserves commendation and appreciation for their concern to care for and protect our environment.

Mahinog alderman named model municipal councilor by press media group

EXEMPLARY PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD. Councilor Liberato E. Babanto, member of the Municipal Council of Mahinog in the province of Camiguin shows the plaque he received in recognition of being chosen as Model Municipal Councilor and Foremost Advocate of Good Government of the Philippines given by Press Media Affair Center Sept. 17, 2011 at Manila Hotel.

Camiguin’s first zipline set to rise in Mahinog

Site development plan for the zipline project in Benoni Lagoon

in the town of Mahinog, Camiguin

Mahinog, Camiguin – J and A Fishpen and Restaurant announced it will open a three-lane zipline this coming December in Benoni Lagoon here.

This was learned from Apolinario B. Alambatin of J and A Fishpen and Restaurant during a project presentation at the Municipal Council Session presided over by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle this morning Sept. 19, 2011.

Alambatin said this will be the first zipline in the island province of Camiguin and this can be found in municipality of Mahinog.

The zipline has a distance of more than 700 meters from station 1 to station 2 that will cross over a lagoon, the first zipline in the region across a body of water, which makes the ride even more exciting.

An additional 360-meter zipline is also being eyed in same area.

Meanwhile, the municipal council here passed a resolution endorsing this project seen to boost tourism industry in the island province of Camiguin especially in the town of Mahinog.

Mahinog holds public hearing on proposed new revenue code

THE Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Committee on Ways and Means is fast tracking the passage of the proposed Municipal Revenue Code of Mahinog in a bid to update the existing tax code which was last passed in 1992.

Yesterday, a public hearing attended by more than 200 participants representing various sectors was conducted at the municipal gymnasium to gather public input on the proposed revenue measures which are needed to spur local growth.

Councilor Jonard B. Labadan (above photo), SB Ways and Means Committee Chairman, stressed the need to pass a new revenue measures because it has already been almost twenty years already that the municipality is operating with the old one.

“In 1992, we are the first municipality in Camiguin that was able to come up with a model revenue code, and now we are left behind because we are the only municipality in the province to have been unable to update it,” Labadan told participants at the hearing.

He added Mahinognons are still fortunate because for almost 20 years fees and charges in Mahinog have remained unchanged and are even considered minimal compared to other local government units in Camiguin.

At the public hearing, municipal treasurer Judith P. Baita (above photo) presented the salient provisions of the proposed Revenue Code of the Municipality of Mahinog.

Baita said the proposed revision includes ten percent (10%) increases of the rates in the existing 1992 revenue code as allowed by Republic Act 7160 otherwise known as The Local Government Code of 1991.

Under the code, local government units are authorized to adjust their tax rates once every five (5) years but such adjustment should not exceed ten percent (10%) of the rates fixed under the code.

Baita stressed it has been 3 times, or more than 15 years, that LGU chose not to take the opportunity to adjust its tax rates, then it is high time now “to awake from long sleep” and pass a new revenue code in order to keep pace with the changing times.

Dr. Perla J. Garot, a participant from the business sector, said tax amendments are appropriate as long as the money is spent properly and it is also important that during the public hearings taxpayers should be made to understand how tax money is used.

Mayor Alex R. Jajalla, in a statement, said the new revenue measures is needed to finance more developmental projects as he assured that every centavo of money collected form local taxes will be judiciously used for the purpose it was collected.

Municipal Council of Mahinog adopts its own official seal

THE Municipal Council of Mahinog today approved its own official seal that carries the local legislative body’s mission and objective as an institution.

In an ordinance authored by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle, the seal represents the authority of the Sangguniang Bayan as the law making body of the municipality and is used to authenticate its own official documents.

The official seal of the Municipal Council (Sangguniang Bayan) of Mahinog and its meaning:

The perimeter of the seal contains the words "SANGGUNIANG BAYAN" and "MAHINOG, CAMIGUIN”. The YELLOW in the background symbolizes Sunshine.

THE THIRTEEN (13) STARS represent the thirteen barangays that constitute the demographic profile of the municipality of Mahinog.

THE SUN stands for a brighter day and our burning desire to build a better town for the present and for future generations.

THE GAVEL depicts the proper order and decorum in the session hall and the authority of the Sangguniang Bayan as the law making body of the municipality.

THE MEN, THE ROSTRUM, AND THE MICROPHONE stand as a symbol of open discussion and free communication of ideas towards building a better Mahinog. The gesture of raised hands stands for “Victory” in line with the Council’s motto “Talk less, act more”. It also stands for unity of purpose in which we agree to remain united despite our differences of opinion.

THE BOOK is a symbol where ordinances and resolutions passed by the Municipal Council are written to promote the welfare of its inhabitants. It is this body of written law upon which the rule of law, not the rule of men, rests.

1948 is the year the municipality of Mahinog was founded and the first municipal council was convened on July 1, 1948.

Municipal Council approves new raffle ordinance

Konsehal Rey Lawrence K. Tan

Mahinog, Camiguin - THE Municipal Council here approved on Monday an ordinance that would regulate the operation of raffle in the municipality.

Under the new measure authored by Councilor Rey Lawrence K. Tan, raffle may be conducted only by a charitable and public welfare organization.

Accordingly, this ordinance would now restrict private individual from holding raffle in the municipality.

Tan said this ordinance came after a bungled raffle in the municipality that victimized a number of people who purchased raffle tickets, but there were no winners. The said raffle was conducted by a private person.

Tan stressed a raffle regulation was needed to safeguard the people against scam.

R.A. 7160 otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991 gives the city and municipal mayors authority to regulate the holding of activities for charitable and welfare purposes within their respective jurisdiction. Such activities may be in the form of benefit shows or dances, bingo socials for charity, raffle draws and similar activities.

The new ordinance makes it unlawful to conduct or operate a raffle in the municipality unless said raffle has been covered by a permit issued by the Municipal Mayor.

The ordinance further provides that raffle permit shall be issued only to organizations that operate without profit to their members.

The ordinance imposes a fine from a minimum of P500 to a maximum of P1,500 or imprisonment of not more than twenty days or both.

Mahinog to ink agreement with all towns in Camiguin for construction of sanitary landfills

A CLUSTERED sanitary landfill to be operated by the Provincial Government of Camiguin for the five towns in the province will soon be established in barangay Benhaan in the municipality of Mambajao, reports said.

As this developed, the Municipal Council today gives its authority to Mayor Alex R. Jajalla to sign a memorandum of agreement among the provincial government of Camiguin and other four towns in the province for the construction of a common sanitary landfill.

Republic Act (RA) 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management law, requires all local government units to shut down their open dumpsites and establish a sanitary landfill.

The landfill will replace the traditional open dumpsite which is environmentally hazardous. The law requires that solid waste must be segregated before these are brought to the sanitary landfill.

The municipality of Mahinog is still using open dumpsite which is the subject of several closure orders by the DENR.

Mayor Alex Jajalla admits continued operation of dumpsite poses danger to public health and environmental hazards in host communities.

The mayor also says closure of the existing open dumpsite and the adoption of sanitary landfill is an urgent priority for this local government as part of its solid waste management plan.

“This is part of our consistent campaign to protect the environment,” he added.

In Mahinog, its open dumpsite is located in sitio upper Kinabkaban in barangay San Roque.

Officials said establishment of sanitary landfills is expensive and maintenance may not be affordable for low class LGU like the Municipality of Mahinog.

Hence, the provincial government’s move to construct a cluster landfill that will serve the five towns including Mahinog was highly welcomed by the municipality, since this will finally solve the town’s problem of finding a final disposal site for solid wastes.

Once realized garbage collection and disposal processes are made easy and financial requirement can become less burdensome for each municipality, local officials said.

Business operating without permit could face fine and confiscation

Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle, Presiding Officer, 18th Municipal Council of Mahinog

AN ORDINANCE introduced by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle was finally approved by the Municipal Council of Mahinog to penalize businessmen who operate their enterprise without the necessary business permit.

The measure will be transmitted to the Office of the Municipal Mayor for approval.

The penalty ranges from a fine of P1,000.00, confiscation of goods to closure.

Under the said ordinance, a business license issued by the municipal mayor is required before any person can operate their business activity.

For existing business establishments, they must secure such permit not later than January 31 each year.

Failure to secure the permit within the prescribed period, a penalty of P1,000.00 shall be imposed.

Any business that continues to operate without Mayor’s Permit and without paying the fines imposed in the ordinance shall be ordered closed by the Municipal Mayor.

If the operator still disregards the closure order, the Mayor shall issue an order to the Chief of the Local PNP to seize or confiscate any goods or instruments used in the said business establishment.

The local PNP that will seize or confiscate the said business establishment shall be assisted by two Barangay Council members. In the absence of the two barangay officials, two members of the Barangay Tanods in that particular barangay shall assist the local PNP.

The local PNP members who seize or confiscate the said instruments shall record in the Police Blotter Book the particulars of the seizure/confiscation and the two Barangay Officials or the two Barangay Tanods shall sign the page of the Police Blotter Book in which the particulars thereof were written.

The seized/confiscated instruments shall be deposited for safe keeping at the Office of the Local PNP.

The operator has the right to repossess his/her seized/confiscated items or instruments upon payment of the prescribed penalties within the period of six (6) months from the date of confiscation.

The Mayor shall dispose the unclaimed seized/ confiscated items or instruments after six (6) months from seizure thru auction to be facilitated by the Office of the Municipal Treasurer and the proceeds shall accrue to the general fund of the municipality.

The purpose of the ordinance was to crack down on unlicensed business establishments and at the same time maximize local sources of revenues for the municipality.

The explanatory note to the ordinance says unlicensed business establishments poses undue competition to those establishments which has complete business requirements and are religiously paying their taxes.

Notice of Public Hearing

A CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the Committee on Transportation of the Sangguniang Bayan of Mahinog on a proposed Ordinance introduced by Hon. Erlindo G. Bequilla requiring Single Motorcycle for Hire (Habal-Habal) to operate in the municipality of Mahinog to be covered with insurance good for at least two (2) passengers in addition to the driver and the unit.

This public hearing will be held on Thursday, July 14, 2011 starting at 9:00 am at the Sangguniang Bayan Session hall.

You and all interested persons are invited to attend this hearing and provide written and/or oral comments and ask questions concerning the proposed ordinance.

Your presence will be highly appreciated in aid of legislation.

Very truly yours,

REY LAWRENCE K. TAN

Chairman, Committee on Transportation

Approved:

ROGERIO C. ACLE

Municipal Vice Mayor/Presiding Officer

Municipal Council to hold public hearing on motorela fare hike

Councilor Rey Lawrence K. Tan

A public hearing will be held by the Committee on Transportation of the Sangguniang Bayan of Mahinog on a proposed motorela fare increase filed by the Mahinog Motorela Operators and Drivers Association (MMODA).

The committee is chaired by Councilor Rey Lawrence K. Tan.

In their petition, the petitioner MMODA alleged:

The price of petroleum products continue to increase.

The existing fare rate/matrix was approved in 2008 when the premium gasoline was still P45.00 per liter.

Today the price of premium gasoline is P61.00 per liter more or less.

The continuing increase of oil price greatly affects the income of drivers and can no longer suffice their family's needs.

This public hearing will be held on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 which will begin at 9:00 am at the Sangguniang Bayan session hall.

According to Tan, all interested persons are invited to attend this hearing and provide written and/or oral comments and ask questions concerning the fare increase.

Ocean Jet to serve Jagna-Benoni-Balingoan daily

MV Oceanjet 7

THE Municipal Council of Mahinog today approved a resolution interposing no objection for Ocean Jet of Ocean Fast Ferries, Inc. (OFFI) to operate fast ferries between Benoni and Balingoan and Jagna routes.

OFFI, a domestic shipping company based in Cebu City and operates several fast ferries in Central Visayas, is applying with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) for a special permit to operate in Jagna, Bohol-Benoni, Mahinog, Camiguin-Balingoan, Misamis Oriental routes.

MV Ocean Jet 7 is expected to start operating daily before holy week, according to Mr. Peter Randy Gaquit, Balingoan-Benoni Operations.

According to the resolution of the municipal council, the economic growth in Camiguin as a tourist island province requires an efficient water transport industry to ferry passengers and cargo at reasonable and competitive rates.

The entry of new operators into these routes should be encouraged as it will enhance the level of competition and bring about reasonable rates and improved quality of fast craft and ferry services, it added.

Ocean Fast Ferries, Inc. (OFFI) entry to this island province is a welcome development taking into consideration the economic and beneficial effect which the service will bring to the province and neighboring islands or region, the resolution said.

There is only one fast ferry that operates Cagayan de Oro-Benoni-Jagna connection which is currently served by Paras Sea Cat.

With Ocean Jet, this is the first and only fast craft that serves Jagna-Benoni-Balingoan routes.

Foundation donates medical supplies to Mahinog

The Municipal Council led by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle, 4th from left, formally turned over the medical supplies to municipal health officer Dr. Juanita K. Llacuna, 3rd from left, at a simple ceremony at the municipal hall

THE municipality of Mahinog has once again benefited from a donation of medical supplies from the Heetens Helpgood Center Philippines, a non-governmental foundation based in The Netherlands devoted to assist people and communities in developing countries improve lives and promote international cooperation.

Boxes filled with medical supplies from Heetens Helpgood Center Philippines (H.H.C.P) were turned over by Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle to the Municipal Health Office led by Dr. Juanita K. Llacuna on Monday at a simple ceremony in the municipal hall.

The medical supplies include three units Gooseneck lamp and stand, 3 minor surgical kits, 9 sphygmomanometer, 9 stethoscope, 5 OB bag, 3 nebulizer, 1 crib and 4 emergency kits.

This donation is one of many humanitarian projects initiated by Jo A.M. Schoorlemmer and Truss Schoorlemmer, couple directors of H.H.C.P.

Mr. & Mrs. Schoorlemmer, who were declared adopted son and daughter of Mahinog, have been actively involved in charity projects in the Province of Camiguin, and in the municipality of Mahinog since 2002 until the present.