LIBERAL VIEWS

KUNG HEI FAT CHOI ! ENTER THE DRAGON

2012-01-23T08:19:00.000-08:00

SC: Midas and his Priceless Reaction On The Microphone

2011-11-30T05:24:00.000-08:00

Aquilino Pimentel III proclaimed senator

2011-08-13T04:24:00.000-07:00

Aquilino Pimentel III proclaimed senator (please click here)

ZUBIRI'S RESIGNATION PRE-EMPTED KOKO PIMENTEL'S TAKEOVER

2011-08-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

The resignation of Migz Zubiri as Senator of the Philippines could have been recorded in our history as a noble act of statesmanship if it was done with utmost sincerity. I could only surmise that the resignation of Senator Zubiri was more of face-saving and a propaganda in preparation for the 2013 elections. Although he mentioned that he has nothing to do with the alleged fraud in the 2007 elections, he should have stated that if he was a benificiary to the alleged manipulaton of the elections specifically in Maguindanao, he was resigning out of delicadeza.

However, his resignation speech tend to undermine the assertions of his adversary, lawyer Koko Pimentel. He could have been appreciated more if he mentioned that his resignation is irrevocable. The statement of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile that he will study the matter (Zubiri's resignation) sent a wrong signal to the ordinary Filipino. As if everthing is "moro-moro."

Humility should have spelled the magic in Zubiri's resignation. But, the lack of it made the affair a tactical move to pre-empt the possible assumption into office of Koko Pimentel as senator.

For others, Zubiri's resignation is an implied admission that he did not really win the 2007 senatorial race.

TALL ORDER FOR P-NOY

2011-06-13T21:48:00.000-07:00

I'ts a tall order for President Noy Aquino to get rid of basic problems like poverty and corruption. The president should harness his army of liberal democrats in doing this. The ideologues of the liberal party and practicioners of liberal democracy should be tapped by the President in his crusade. The true-blooded liberals can effectively assist the president because these people are selfless and are used to making sacrifices in order to uphold the principles of good governance. It's not yet too late P-Noy.

Roxas will have hands full at DOTC | ABS-CBN News | Latest Philippine Headlines, Breaking News, Video, Analysis, Features

2011-06-07T08:02:00.000-07:00

Roxas will have hands full at DOTC | ABS-CBN News | Latest Philippine Headlines, Breaking News, Video, Analysis, Features

WATER POLLUTION MIGHT BE THE REAL CAUSE OF FISHKILL

2011-06-02T04:59:00.000-07:00

Up to this this time, there is no official word from experts and authorities as to the real cause of fishkill in Batangas and Panagasinan. This is not the first time that fishkill occured in different parts of the country. However, it seems that we only get alarmed by this when it is already happening, when the disaster is right before our eyes. A logical conclusion that comes to one's mind is that most of the bodies of water like rivers, seas, lakes and the like are polluted. Government, especially the local governments units can do something about this. Waste water directed into our rivers and seas should be regulated properly. Waste water treatment should be employed by the local governments. If local officials allot millions of pesos for roads and public buildings, they should also focus on environmental protection such as the promotion of clean water.

Waste water treatment like the reverse osmosis system is nowadays affordable. Taxpayers won't mind if public funds are spent to protect our waters. The money is worth spending to make our rivers, seas, and bodies of water clean and unpolluted. If this happens, the bounty of our aquatic resources will become sustainable. Fishkill will just become a thing of the past.

Tribes ask SC to stop Surigao mining

2011-05-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

Tribes ask SC to stop Surigao mining

P - NOY SHOULD APPOINT MORE LIBERALS TO EFFECTIVELY PROMOTE A LIBERAL GOVERNMENT

2011-05-22T08:19:00.000-07:00

The promotion of a liberal government based on the premise that a strong party system should be adopted in the Philippines is big challenge to the Aquino presidency. As the newy-elected Chairman of the Liberal Party of the Philippines, P-Noy is committed to uphold the basic principles of Liberalism which are: protection of human rights, promotion of market economy, and upholding of freedom and democracy. To effectively do this, President Noynoy Aquino should appoint more liberals in government. According to him, the liberal party has a deep bench of talents to choose from. The President should disregard the usual criticisms of the opposition as to whom he should appoint. This is a matter of presidential prerogative. P-Noy has nothing to fear especially if his appointee is qualified.

RH BILL DEBATE: MOOT AND ACADEMIC?

2011-05-22T06:56:00.000-07:00

Salient provisions of the Reproductive Health bill have found its way in the respective gender and development code of many local government units. Coupled with a memorandum circular mandating for the passage of a gender code, pro forma ordinances were distributed by the DILG several years ago which were adopted by various local government units. If local laws have been passed to this effect, the on-going debate might already be moot and academic.

400 YEARS OF UST: A Visit to my Alma Mater

2011-05-04T04:13:00.000-07:00

2009 Wear a helmet campaign

2011-02-26T23:41:00.000-08:00

LIBERALS OF ILOCOS SUR AND CAGAYAN WITH LP CHAIRMAN, HIS EXCELLENCY BENIGNO SIMEON "NOYNOY" AQUINO III

2011-02-26T22:42:00.000-08:00

LIBERAL PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES: 65 YEARS

2011-01-17T23:00:00.000-08:00

ALL THE BEST IN 2011

2011-01-01T11:37:00.000-08:00

PASKO PARA SA PAGBABAGO

2010-12-17T11:09:00.000-08:00

December 10 is International Human Rights Day

2010-12-09T10:43:00.000-08:00

Respect for Human Rights starts with the recognition of the right to life, liberty and property. The right to life includes the right to a happy and prosperous life. Right to Liberty is not just simple physical freedom but it also encompasses economic freedom. Freedom must be exercised responsibly. Right to property is a basic necessity. Property rights must always be respected. It gives dignity to an individual. It is a tool for development.

Imagine...NO LIBERALS

2010-12-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

REMEMBERING A LIBERAL PRESIDENT: ELPIDIO R. QUIRINO

2010-11-15T21:23:00.000-08:00

Quirino, Elpidio - WikiPilipinas: The Hip 'n Free Philippine Encyclopedia

VIGAN CITY COUNCIL APPROVES ANNUAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR 2011 AMOUNTING TO PHP 86,500,000.00

2010-11-11T19:46:00.000-08:00

The Vigan City Council has just recently approved the Annual Development Plan of Vigan for 2011 amounting to Php 86,500,000.00, details of which can be found above.

CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN THE FILIPINO WAY

2010-10-28T23:56:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the western-type of halloween in the Philipines does not speak well of being a Filipino, we just imitated it from our American idols. Worst, it has become commercialized and UnFilipino. We should come up with our own unique celebration without prejudice to the party mood and merriment. In the Philippine setting, "Trick or Treat" should be replaced with "Pangangaluwa" wherein groups or individuals can visit the different houses in their communities and serenade the owners for a token fee or food treat. Halloween Costumes should be something Filipino. Instead of witches, draculas, and foriegn-inspired characters, we should come up with costumes depicting a "Kapre", "Tikbalang", "Aswang", "Mangkukulam" or anything identifed with the Filipino.

Halloween according to Wikepedia, is a holiday celebrated every October 31 in places like the United States, Canada, Ireland and UK. The Filipino Halloween on the otherhand is the celebration of All Saints' Day every November 1 and All Soul's Day every November 2. These have been associated with the Catholic Church. The Filipino tradition is to visit the tombs of their departed loved ones on these days, bringing flowers and candles including food as offerings. It is also during this time that Filipino families gather together and offer prayers for the dead, after which a family picnic in the cemeteries and memorial parks take place.

A long time ago, the "Pangangaluwa" every October 31 had been a Filipino practice in several provinces in the Philippines. However, this has been forgotten and this Filipino culture and tradition was overetaken by the "Western Halloween". Parties and merriment during the halloween are acceptable, but Filipinos should do it without appearing as cheap copycats and imitators of a culture which do they not own. Identity crisis has always been a problem for the Pinoy.

Let us start reviving and appreciating our own traditions and customs. In this way, we will be contributing to the country's cultural development towards economic prosperity.

BARANGAY AND SK ELECTIONS STILL MARRED WITH VOTE-BUYING AND VIOLENCE

2010-10-25T02:32:00.000-07:00

When will we ever learn? Money politics still dominates the Barangay(Village) and Sangguniang Kabataan(Youth Council)) elections. Like in the past, Philippine politics is still very traditional. Characterized by patronage, vote-buying, and in some cases, violence, the just recently concluded Barangay ang SK elections are far from being tools for meaningful change. Instead, it has become training grounds for dirty politics and corruption.

It is sad to note that even the youth(15-17 yrs. old) have become victims of money politics through machinations perpetrated by many parents, guardians, or elders who desperately want their candidates to win. This is a bad precedent considering that instead of training the youth to become leaders and good citizens, they are now directly exposed to the ills of traditional politics(trapo).

In the case of the barangays, nothing much has improved. The same technique of directly or indirectly buying votes in violation of the law remains a practice. We never learn because we don't allow ourselves to effect change. We complain against the ills of society but we hesitate to expose and oppose vote-buying. We are always afraid to come out from our comfort zones and most of the time we choose to remain silent. As the saying goes, "we get the government that we deserve."

LAUNCHING OF THE YOUTH GUIDE TO THE VIGAN CITY COUNCIL

2010-10-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

INTERNAL REVENUE ALLOTMENT OF VIGAN BARANGAYS FOR 2010

2010-10-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

LEGISLATORS WEEK (SEPT. 27-30, 2010)

2010-10-03T00:08:00.000-07:00

AS THE PROPONENT OF THE YOUTH GUIDE TO THE VIGAN CITY COUNCIL, I PRESENTED AN OVERVIEW BEFORE A GROUP OF STUDENT LEADERS FROM THE DIFFERENT SCHOOLS OF METRO VIGAN.

VIGAN LEGISLATORS (L-R): COUNCILOR HENRY FORMOSO. VICE MAYOR RYAN SINGSON, COUNCILOR FRANZ RANCHES, COUNCILOR BENJO VERZOSA.

LEGISLATIVE BUDDIES FRANZ AND BENJO

PRELIMINARY BUDGET RESPONSE

2010-10-02T02:48:00.000-07:00

October 16 is the deadine for the Mayor to submit to the City Council the Proposed Development Plan and Budget for the year 2011. From the receipt of said proposals, the City Council shall begin to review these two most important documents, exercising its oversight function and power over the purse. For several years now, the Legislative Council has been at odds with the Executive Branch when it comes to budget review. While the Council wants to assert its proposals on how budgetary allocations for the operations of the local government be done, the Executive Department remains cold to the Council's counter-proposals.

I have thought of proposing a PRELIMINARY BUDGET REPONSE as a method to address the issue. Patterned after the New York City Council, this aims to ensure that the Budget reflects the needs, priorities and aspirations of the people. The Council shall conduct an in-depth review of all city departmments, their policies, their programs and their expenses. At the end of the budget hearings, the Council shall submit to the Mayor a Preliminary Budget Response, which defines the legislature's budgetary priorities and the changes it would like to see in the budget. The Mayor then submits a revised Executive Budget for the final review of the City Council.

The Preliminary Budget Response will strengthen the balance of power betwen the Executive and Legislative branches in the City of Vigan. Check and Balance is a necessary ingredient in a truly democratic society. Moreover, a performance-based City Budget shall be enacted. Is this not an innovation in governance?

VIGAN CITY COUNCIL APPROVES SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET NO.01 IN THE AMOUNT OF PHP 16,696,904.26

2010-09-15T05:29:00.000-07:00

The Vigan City Council just recently approved Supplemental Budget No. 01 in the amount of Php 16,696,904.26. Funding sources came from additional Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) in the amount of PhP 16,027,252.oo and the reversion of Personal Services as of May 31, 2010 in the amount of Php 669,652.26.oo.

Details of the supplemental budget are as follows:

LIBERALISM: AN IDEOLOGY

2010-09-15T00:22:00.000-07:00

9TH SOLIDARITY DAY CELEBRATION

2010-09-08T01:37:00.000-07:00

Every September 8 of the year, all Heritage Cities in the World celebrate Solidarity Day. This celebration is in recognition of one's rich historical and cultural legacy. It may be in the form of parades, cultural shows, arts and crafts exhibits, food fair, contests and the like, the aim of which is to raise the level of heritage awareness of the people especially the stakeholders. This activity also boosts tourism activity in the heritage site. What is notable during said celebration is the recitation of the Pledge of Commitment by the members of the community led by the local officials. It is a commitment to work for the protection of the heritage.

I am hereby publishing the PLEDGE OF COMMITMENT written by Ricardo Favis of Vigan who is presently connected with UNESCO, which is being recited every September 8 on the occasion of the Solidarity Day Celebartion in Vigan:

I AM PROUD TO BE A BIGUENO,

LIVING IN THE WORLD HERITAGE SITE OF VIGAN.

I AM PROUD OF MY HOMETOWN VIGAN,

WHICH HAS GIVEN US SUSTENANCE THROUGH THE YEARS.

I AM PROUD OF MY LOCAL HERITAGE,

WHICH PROVIDES OUR SYMBOL AND IDENTITY AND LINK TO OUR PAST.

I AM PROUD OF MY PATRIMONY, FOR IT IS THE BASIS OF OUR ECONOMIC DEVELOMENT AND KEY TO OUR FUTURE.

IN RETURN, I PLEDGE TO SUPPORT AND ASSIST

IN THE PRESERVATION OF OUR ANCESTRAL HOUSES AND HISTORIC BUILDINGS,

IN MEMORY OF OUR ANCESTORS WHO BUILT THEM.

I PLEDGE TO PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN PRESERVING THE VALUES

FOR WHICH MY HOMETOWN VIGAN WAS INSCRIBED

IN THE WORLD HERITAGE LIST.

I PLEDGE THAT MY FAMILY, PARTICULARLY MY CHILDREN,

WILL ENDEAVOR TO PRESERVE WHAT WE HAVE TODAY

FOR THE BENEFIT OF OUR CHILDREN'S CHILDREN.

I PLEDGE TO PASS ON TO MY CHILDREN THE VALUES AND TRADITIONS OF OUR ANCESTORS, THAT HAVE MOLDED OUR LIVES AND MADE US SURVIVE.

AND FINALLY, I PLEDGE TO ASSIST OUR LEADERS

IN ENSURING THAT VIGAN IS CLEAN, SAFE AND LIVABLE.

SO HELP ME GOD.

ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE COMELEC (RE: BARANGAY AND SK ELECTIONS)

2010-08-08T04:24:00.000-07:00

THE PHILOSOPHY OF LIBERTY

2010-08-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

WHY THE SONA (State of the Nation Address) AFFECTS US

2010-07-27T08:03:00.000-07:00

After years of democratic struggle, maybe we can say that the Philippines reached a certain degree of Political Maturity. Last monday's SONA delivered by President Noynoy Aquino captivated the Filipino people from all walks of life. Almost everybody was glued to their televisions, radios, internet connections, and even cellphones, just to watch, listen and monitor what the new President has to say. Unlike in the past SONAs which were not given much attention, the SONA of P-NOY (President Noy), was well attended and given importance. Surveys show that 8 out of 10 Filipinos believe in the President's SONA. With this level of trust rating, confidence in the new adminstration is very high.

The SONA is an opportunity for the President to outline his vision and program of government. It is a statement or description of the real situation of our nation and where it is headed to. President Aquino's SONA can be observed as realistic, straightforward and doable. This is how it affects us:

a)If the President is against red tape and wants transparacency in government transactions, those in government are expected to behave and help eliminate corruption.

b)If the President wants to put to a stop unnecessary expenses, then we have to expect a frugal government.

c)If the President wants a Public-Private partnership in pursuance of infrastructure and other development projects, we have to expect competition among the private contractors and developers, which is healthy in the bureaucracy.

d) If the President wants to give importance to job-generation, we have to attract more investors.

Whether we like it or not, every Filipno is affected by the SONA because through it, we can chart the destiny of our country.

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY JOJO OCHOA ATTENDS THE BATCH REUNION OF THE FRATERNAL ORDER OF UTOPIA

2010-07-21T01:09:00.000-07:00

ATTY. SAUL HOFILENA READS THE CITATION OF THE PLAQUE OF RECOGNITION FOR THE NEWLY-APPOINTED EXECUTIVE SECRETARY PAQUITO "JOJO" OCHOA.

UTOPIANS SHARE LIGHT MOMENTS WITH EACH OTHER.

FORMER VICE MAYOR, NOW COUNCILOR FRANZ RANCHES LISTENS INTENTLY TO THE GUEST OF HONOR, BESIDE HIM IS ATTY. JESSIE AVERIA, A SON OF VIGAN.

EVERYONE IS ALL EARS AND EYES TO THE "LITTLE PRESIDENT."

(all photos are courtesy of Atty. SP Sumulong)

ARE WE READY FOR A VECTOR CONTROL ORDINANCE?

2010-07-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

Many are wondering what the vector control ordinance is all about. As the principal proponent, I felt a sense of duty on my part to explain what is this all about.

Vector is defined as an organism which, either directly or indirectly, via micro organisms which it carries, can transmit disease to man. The term "vector" shall ordinarily but not exclusively refer to rodent, insect or vermin species such as rats, mice, mosquitoes, cockroaches, and the like. The purpose of the ordinance is to protect public health, safety and the general welfare by:

A. Preventing or controlling the spread of vector borne disease.

B. Averting the blighting effects which the presence of vector infestation places on an affected neighborhood, including undermining the desirabilty of housing, causing the decline in property value and contributing to the image of an environmentally unfit area.

C. Expanding the services of the City Health Office by making more regulations concerning vector control.

The proposed vector control ordinance seeks to control and eliminate vectors by removing harborage areas through spraying, poisoning, fumigating, trapping, or any legal vector elimination method which is not injurious to human health or the safety of domestic animals. It will be the responsibility of the City Health office to conduct inspection of residential as well as commercial establishments. The bottom line is for everybody to exert efforts in mantaining cleanliness in one's premises or sorroundings in order to achieve a vector-proof establishment.

A fine of Two Thousand Pesos or imprisonment of not more than thirty days or both at the discretion of the court is the penalty for persons who violate or permit the violation of this ordinance. This has been presented on first reading and awaits the action of the Committee on Health in which the measure was referred to.

COMMITTEE ON TOURISM TACKLES PROPOSED TOURISM CODE

2010-07-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

Councilor Franz Ranches explains the salient features of the Proposed Vigan Tourism Code.

As the principal author of the Proposed Vigan Tourism Code, Councilor Ranches stresses the need to maintain a tourism service standard.

PAUL, THE "PSYCHIC" OCTOPUS FEVER(Adopted from Yahoo Sports)

2010-07-11T19:47:00.001-07:00

An octopus named Paul opens a box decorated with a Spanish flag and a shell inside on July 9, 2010 at the Sea Life aquarium in Oberhausen, western Germany. Paul's task is to decide in favour of one of the shells hidden in boxes with the flags of the Netherlands and Spain to act thus as oracle for the upcoming final match of the FIFA Football World Cup between the two countries on July 11, 2010 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Paul, the "psychic" octopus, who had predicted well the result of six German matches earlier in the tournament, predicted Spain will win the football World Cup for the first time in their history. AFP PHOTO / PATRIK STOLLARZ (Photo credit should read PATRIK STOLLARZ/AFP/Getty Images)(Photo Credit should Read /AFP/Getty Images)

INVITATION TO ATTEND THE INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT BENIGNO SIMEON C. AQUINO III

2010-07-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

LIBERAL VIEW'S NEW LOOK

2010-07-02T23:27:00.000-07:00

After almost four years of blogging, I have decided to change the design of my blog. Since my term as Vice Mayor has expired and as I prepare for the next chapter of my political career, a fresh start is in order. The new look of LIBERAL VIEW'S represents the new perspective that I have to trek. We have a new Liberal President who is a source of hope and inspiration for the Filipinos. As such, I want to give my contribution in making the Philippines a better place to live in. LIBERAL VIEW'S NEW LOOK is a response to the new challenges of liberalism.

OUTGOING VICE MAYOR FRANZ RANCHES TURNS-OVER THE VIGAN CITY COUNCIL TO INCOMING VICE MAYOR RYAN SINGSON

2010-07-01T23:06:00.000-07:00

THE VIGAN CITY COUNCIL REPORT

By: Vice Mayor Francisco P. Ranches, Jr.

(Delivered during the the City Council Turn-Over Ceremonies held on June 28, 2010 at the Sangguniang Panlungsod Session Hall)

For the Year 2007, the legislative body of the City Government of Vigan, the 2^nd and 3^rd City Councils approved a total of 72 legislations, 54 Resolutions, 11 ordinances and 7 appropriation ordinances. It was this year when the city council approved the relocation of the Vigan City Jail in its new site at Ayusan Norte by virtue of Resolutions No. 30 and 36 series of 2007. The rehabilitation of the Mindoro sea wall has seen light through Resolution No. 32 series of 2007. The Stimulation and Therapeutic Activity Center (STAC) was established in cooperation with the Danish Polio Society as per Resolution No 34-2007.

The Council likewise enacted Appropriation Ordinance No. 7, Series 2008, appropriating P198,446,225.00 as the Annual Budget of Vigan City for Fiscal Year 2008. Out of the said amount P54, 189,716.84 was allotted for various projects for the economic, environmental and social sectors development.

It was on this year when the city council appropriated funds for the salary increase of city government employees. It was also in this year that the Vigan City Council was declared as Outstanding in Ilocos Sur and 1^st runner-up in Region 1.

For the year 2008, the Vigan City Council approved a total of 85 legislations in 48 Regular and Special Sessions. 58 Resolutions, 20 Ordinances and 7 Appropriation Ordinances.

The Gender and Development Code was enacted, the Katulagan or Vigan Service Guide Book was adopted, the formulation of the Comprehensive Land Use Paln was endorsed, a reolution was approved authorizing Mayor Eva Medina to enter into a Deed of Usufruct with TESDA for purposes of contructing the TESDA Provincial office in Vigan, other significant resolutions among others were the creation of the Metro Vigan Coordinating Council , the establishment of Buridek Children’s Museum at the Filipino-Spanish friendship Park, and the adoption of the Vigan Environmental Plan. Also the council approved the Annual Budget for 2009 amounting to Php 200,159,341.29 pesos.

From January to December of the year 2009, the Third Council approved a total of 38 resolutions, 6 ordinances and 6 appropriation ordinances or 50 legislative measures in 48 regular and special sessions.

Most notable of which are the enactment of the Vigan Environment Code, the establishment of the Vigan Skills Training Institute, the approval of the Annual Development Plan amounting to Php 62,500,000.00 pesos, approval of the Annual Budget for 2010 amounting to Php 232,402,269 pesos. Said appropriations have been allocated for the establishment of the Vigan Skills Training Institute, Implementation of the Vigan River Cruise, construction and improvement of farm to market roads and government facilities, cooperative development and for livelihood programs and projects, performance bonuses of employees, additional fund for capital outlay of various offices and the establishment of streetlights and modernization of the Vigan Gymnasium.

And for the second time, it was in 2009 that Vigan made it again as the Most

Outstanding Sanggaunian in Ilocos Sur and 1^st runner-up in the region.

January to June 30, 2010 is the last leg of the term of the 3^rd Vigan City Council. The august body has approved a total of 23 legislations. 21 Resolutions and two (2) ordinances have been enacted in 25 regular and special sessions.

Although 2010 is an election year, we were not remiss of our duties as legislators. The City Council continued to function as a legislative body by continuously holding regular sessions until the last minute of the 3^rd City Council’s term. As your humble Vice Mayor and Presiding Officer for the last 9 years, and in line with the codification project, we were able to accomplished the following:

1. Conservaton Code

2. Revenue Code

3. Transportation Code

4. Investment Incentives Code

5. Youth Code

6. Gender and Development Code

7. Environment Code

8. Market Code

In trying our best to introduce innovations in local legislation, the City Council came up with a system of electronic session, it maintained a website where ordinances and resolutions are downloadable wherever you are in the world. As a commitment to inform the people on what’s happening in the legislative branch, we initiated a Public Information Program such as Konseho ti Vigan Radio program, Legislative digest, Price Watch and the Vice Mayor’s Blogsite.

Ladies and Gentlemen, staying too long in one position makes you run out of ideas, I have to let go and turn-over the leadership of this council so that a fresh mandate can continue making the legislative body of Vigan face the new challenges of governance. The love for Vigan inspired me to run for public office and get elected as a legislator. Now I can say that it is also for the love for Vigan and Country that I’m stepping down as your Vice Mayor as I embark on a new chapter of my political career. Vigan will always be unique to me, it is not only a place where there is so much to see and so much to eat, but it is a community where there is so much to do for the betterment of the Biguenos.

I’d like to thank all of you, Mayor Eva Medina, my colleagues in the city council, the department heads, the members of the media who helped us maintain the flames of democracy alive, the legislative staff, some of you are unsung heroes and heroines in making the legislative body work, without your assistance, life would be more difficult for me. As I welcome Vice Mayor Ryan Luis Singson, join me in making a commitment to uphold a Strong, Dynamic, Independent, and Responsible Vigan City Council. Thank you and good day!

CITY COUNCIL SPONSORS TESTIMONIAL FOR THE NEW LAWYERS OF VIGAN

2010-06-20T23:32:00.000-07:00

Atty. Arnel dela Rosa of Beddeng Laud, Vigan City delivers his response during the testimonial for new lawyers while Vice Mayor Franz Ranches(background) listens intently.

Mrs. Josephine Peralta receives the plaque of recognition in behalf of Atty. Melanie Aleson.

Councilor Lourdes Baquiran beams with pride as she accepts the plaque of recognition in behalf of her son Atty. Giovanni Gio Baquiran.

Mrs. Flory Dy-Uy accepts the plaque of recognition from the members of the Vigan City Council in behalf of her son, Atty. Karl Jordan Uy.

STATEMENT OF SENATOR MAR ROXAS as read by Quezon Rep. Erin Tañada

2010-05-11T20:37:00.000-07:00

“Magandang gabi po sa inyo. Gusto ko lang magpaabot ng mensahe sa ating mga kababayan: Hangga’t hindi pa tapos ang bilangan, hindi pa tapos ang laban.

“The race as between me and my closest competitor is indeed very tight. However, it is not for me, or anybody for that matter, to say if we’ve already lost, or if we will win in the end. It is up to the sovereign will of the people.

“The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting’s latest partial and unofficial tally as of this afternoon (as of 5:30pm –ed.) is based on roughly 85% of all election returns. This means roughly five million voters in more than 11,000 precincts have yet to be taken into consideration. Of this, roughly half are expected to come from our bailiwick regions. This just underscores that the fight is not yet over, and we should remain vigilant.

“At this point, I would like to thank: all our volunteers and supporters who have been guarding the people’s sacred right to vote; all the teachers and election officers who have been steadfast in their duty, in spite of the difficulty in navigating our new method of election.

“Most especially, I would like to thank the Filipino people for coming out to vote, despite the scorching heat of the sun; despite the long lines; and despite terror being sowed by some elements to compromise our democratic process.

“And at this point, I would like to make one more request: tuloy ang pagbabantay. Patuloy na maging mapagmatyag, hanggang sa kadulu-duluhan ng halalang ito. Sama sama po tayo, hindi natin pababayaan ang isa’t isa, tuloy ang laban.”

MEDIA
Mar Roxas for Vice President
Balay, Cubao, Quezon City
Telephone: 913-62-54 - 0928-520-5489
Email: media@marroxas.com /
media.marroxas@yahoo.com /
media.marroxas@gmail.com

Tayo'y Malakas na Bumabalik! Tuloy ang Laban!

2010-03-30T08:15:00.000-07:00

VOTER PREFERENCE FOR PRESIDENT

National Pre-Election Survey (in %)

	Business World - SWS		Manila Standard Today
	February 24 - 28	March 19 - 22	February 20 - 26	March 21 - 23
AQUINO	36	37	34	39
VILLAR	34	28	32	26
ESTRADA	15	19	16	17
TEODORO	6	6	6	6
OTHERS	5	5	4	4
UNDECIDED	-	-	5	5

VOTER PREFERENCE FOR VICE PRESIDENT

National Pre-Election Survey (in %)

	Business World - SWS		Manila Standard Today
	February 24 - 28	March 19 - 22	February 20 - 26	March 21 - 23
ROXAS	45	42	39	39
LEGARDA	28	25	30	29
BINAY	17	21	15	17
MANZANO	2	3	4	3
OTHERS	5	5	6	5
UNDECIDED	-	-	4	3

Articles: www.bsworldonline.com; www.manilastandardtoday.com

Survey resutls: www.sws.org.ph; http://mstpoll.wordpress.com/

PRESS RELEASE: 42 days until election day, Aquino still leads in pre-election surveys

With a little more than a month to go until May 10, Liberal Party (LP) standard-bearer Benigno S. “Noynoy” Aquino III still leads in the pre-election surveys. Two broadsheet publications on Monday released the results of two polls that show the Liberal Party (LP) standard bearer is ahead in the presidential race.

In the latest survey of the Social Weather Stations (SWS) printed on Monday’s edition of Business World, Aquino leads at 37%, 9 percentage points ahead of his closest rival, Nacionalista Party (NP) bet Manuel Bamba Villar Jr , who trails behind at 28%.

Villar dropped 6 percentage points lower than his score during the February survey of the SWS. Deposed President Erap Estrada came in at third with 19%, while administration candidate Gilbert Teodoro remains in single-digits, holding at 6%.

The survey was conducted last March 19-22, on 2,100 registered voters nationwide, and showed that Aquino leads the race in terms of both socio-economic classes and geographic area, overtaking Villar in both the balance of Luzon and among classes ABC, and E.

Also on Monday, The Manila Standard Today released the results of its pre-election survey, wherein Aquino, scoring at 39%, has taken a 13% lead over Villar, who scored at 26%. Estrada and Teodoro garnered 17% and 6%, respectively.

The Standard survey also indicates a surge in Aquino’s popularity over the regions and the classes, noting that “[a]mong the very poor Aquino held a 12 point lead over Villar, or 39 percent to 27 percent.”

According to Pedro Laylo, the Standard’s resident pollster, “[s]upport for Villar is in the downtrend in urban areas specifically in the National Capital Region where he lost seven points while Aquino added eight more points.”

Meanwhile in the vice-presidential race, Aquino’s running mate, Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas, also enjoys a commanding lead in both the SWS and the Standard surveys, scoring at 42% and 39, respectively. His closest rival, the NP’s Loren Legarda, came in at 25% in the SWS survey, and at 29% in this month’s Standard survey.

LP General Campaign Manager Florencio “Butch” Abad attributes Aquino’s surge to strategic focus provided by former Senator Serge Osmeña, who has recently taken a leave of absence to focus on his own senatorial campaign, and to the tireless assistance of Aquino’s hundreds of thousands of dedicated volunteers.

Aquino has been campaigning on a platform of good governance and freedom from the culture of corruption that is a major cause of poverty in the country. Abad sees Aquino’s constant lead in the pre-election polls as indication that “the Filipino people continue to believe in Senator Noynoy Aquino’s ability to bring about a clean and compassionate government that will put an end to corruption and alleviate poverty.”

March 29, 2010

NOYNOY GETS WARM WELCOME IN VIGAN

2010-03-22T01:53:00.000-07:00

NOY, MAR MOST TRUSTED 2010 CANDIDATES – PULSE ASIA

2010-03-18T20:40:00.000-07:00

VILLAR SUFFERS BIG DROP, LEGARDA STILL DOWN

Liberal Party standard bearers Senators Benigno S. Aquino III and Mar Roxas are the candidates most trusted by Filipino voters among public figures and among all candidates running in the presidential and vice-presidential elections in May 10.

In contrast, voters’ trust for their rivals Sen. Manuel Villar and Sen. Loren Legarda declined, with Villar suffering a double-digit drop despite the more than P1 billion he had spent on TV and radio advertisements since last year.

These are the findings of the latest Pulse Asia survey conducted from February 21 to 25 among 1,800 respondents, which also showed Aquino and Roxas topping voters’ preferences for President and Vice President if elections were held today.

Pulse Asia said Aquino enjoyed the “big trust” of 64% of Filipino voters, making him the most trusted candidate for President. Only 14% of voters said they had “small/no trust” for Aquino, with the rest undecided.

Roxas, on the other hand, continued to enjoy the distinction of being the public figure with the highest trust among Filipino voters, with 70% of voters saying they have a “big trust” for him, with only 10% having “small/no trust” and the rest undecided.

Aquino’s high trust ratings is in contrast to Filipino voters’ perception of his main rival Villar, whose trust ratings dipped to 59% due to an 11-point drop among Filipinos with ”big trust” in him.

Legarda’s trust rating likewise went down to 58%, or a drop of 3% from her January trust rating.

Among the presidential candidates, former President Joseph Estrada came third, with 40%, followed by administration standard-bearer Gilbert Teodoro with 29%. Sen. Dick Gordon came next with a 25% rating.

In the vice presidential race, Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay came third, with only 45%; former MMDA chief Bayani Fernando with 22% and by actor Edu Manzano, 19%.

The Pulse Asia trust survey validates results of recent pre-election preference surveys conducted by independents pollsters, where Aquino and Roxas thumped their rivals with wide margins.

Aquino and Roxas are campaigning on a platform of good governance and transformational leadership and have repeatedly vowed to make themselves examples that could be emulated by the rest in government, including a promise to open their bank accounts to public scrutiny to stress their commitment to wipe out graft and corruption in government.

AQUINO, ROXAS NANGUNGUNA PA RIN SA PULSE SURVEY

2010-03-07T18:31:00.000-08:00

Please refer to:

Ms. Jenny Bugarin

Tel. 913-6254 /+63920-950-6140

Ms. Belle Arceño

Tel. 913-6254/+632928-520-5506

March 5, 2010

AQUINO, ROXAS NANGUNGUNA PA RIN SA PULSE SURVEY

PANINIRA, BILYON-BILYONG PISONG GASTOS NG KALABAN WALANG EPEKTO

Kahit na gumastos na ng bilyon-bilyong piso at tuloy-tuloy ang paninira ng kanilang mga kalaban sa eleksyon sa Mayo 10, patuloy na nanguna sa pinakahuling survey ng Pulse Asia ang pambato ng Partido Liberal na si Senador Benigno S. Aquino III at Senador Mar Roxas.

Ayon sa survey na isinagawa ng Pulse Asia sa 1,800 na respondents sa buong bansa mula Pebrero 21-25, umungos si Aquino na kandidato para Pangulo ng LP kay Senador Manuel Villar ng Nacionalista Party ng pitong puntos nang siya ay piliin ng 36 porsyento ng mga botante na iboboto nila bilang Pangulo kung ang eleksyon ay gaganapin ngayon.

Sa mga tumatakbo naman bilang Bise-Presidente, nanguna pa rin ng milya-milya si Roxas kay Senador Loren Legarda na running mate ni Villar ng piliin si Roxas ng 43% ng mga botante kumpara sa 27% na pumili kay Legarda.

Kung boboto lahat ng 50 milyong rehistradong botante, lalamang si Roxas ng halos walong milyong boto kay Legarda, na siyang magiging pinakamalaking lamang ng isang tumatakbong kandidato sa kanyang kalaban sa buong kasaysayan ng bansa.

Sa presidential survey, pinili si Villar ng 29 porsyento lamang ng mga botante, ayon sa Pulse Asia.

Kung boboto lahat ang 49 milyong rehistradong botante, lalamang si Aquino kay Villar ng 3.5 milyong boto base sa survey ng Pulse Asia.

Samantala, ang iba namang kandidato para Pangulo ay nakakuha ng mga sumusunod na rating: Joseph Estrada, 18%; Gilbert Teodoro, 7%; Eddie Villanueva, 2%; at Richard Gordon, 1%.

Ang iba namang kandidato para Bise-Presidente ay nakakuha ng mga sumusunod na rating: Jejomar Binay, 15%; Bayani Fernando, 4%; at Edu Manzano, 2%.

NOYNOY'S SISTER PINKY AQUINO-ABELLADA WARMLY RECEIVED BY THE PEOPLE OF VIGAN CITY, ILOCOS SUR

2010-03-07T17:59:00.000-08:00

GOOD GOVERNANCE: LIBERAL PARTY'S CAMPAIGN THEME

2010-02-08T10:05:00.000-08:00

PRESS STATEMENT

Office of Senator Mar Roxas

Suite 512 GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Pasay City

Please refer to:

Ms. Jenny Bugarin

Tel. 832-82-80 /+63920-950-6140

February 10, 2010

LIBERAL PARTY KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN IN TARLAC CITY

RESTORATION OF GOOD GOVERNANCE THEME OF CAMPAIGN

The voter’s hunger for change in the corrupt political system is the Liberal Party’s formula in ensuring the victory of the tandem of Senators Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III and Manuel “Mar” Roxas in the May 10 national elections, Chito Gascon, LP Director General, said today.

The LP slate led by Aquino and Roxas, along with the 12 Liberal “Peoples’ Reform” senatorial candidates, will kick off their 90-day campaign in Aquino’s home province of Tarlac, with a 9 a.m. mass in Concepcion, where the LP standard bearer’s late father, Sen. Ninoy Aquino, started his political career.

To highlight the campaign’s advocacy for democracy and good governance, the LP bets will lay a wreath in the elder Aquino’s statue, also in Concepcion, and later, unveil and bless the Cory Monument at the Tarlac City Plaza.

The memories of Ninoy Aquino, whose martyrdom in 1983 led to the EDSA Revolution, and the late President Cory Aquino serve as inspiration to the campaign of the LP tandem for the May 10 national elections, seen by the Aquino-Roxas duo as a battle to restore good governance in the country to erase widespread corruption that pervaded the 9-year rule of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Gascon said.

Aquino and Roxas will be accompanied in Tarlac by the LP “People’s Reform” senatorial slate – former Senate President Franklin Drilon, Muntinlupa Rep. Ruffy Biazon, Bukidnon Rep. Teofisto “TG” Guingona, former Bukidnon Rep. Nereus ‘Neric” Acosta, Akbayan Rep. Risa Hontiveros-Baraquel, former National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) chief Ralph Recto, Sonia Roco of Aksyon Demokratiko, detained Brig. Gen. Danny Lim, lawyer Alex Lacson, Dr. Martin Bautista and women’s right advocate Yasmin Busran Lao.

After the Mass celebration at the Immaculate Concepcion Church in Concepcion, the LP candidates will barnstorm the province with a motorcade from Capas town to Tarlac City.

The kick-off rally in Tarlac City Plaza will start with a Mass set tentatively at 4:30 p.m. to be attended by the families of the candidates, followed by the unveiling and blessing of a monument in memory President Aquino.

AQUINO-ROXAS TANDEM STILL NO.1 IN SURVEYS

2010-02-02T22:46:00.000-08:00

PRESS STATEMENT

Office of Senator Mar Roxas

Suite 512 GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Pasay City

Please refer to:

Ms. Jenny Bugarin

Tel. 832-82-80 /+63920-950-6140

February 3, 2010

AQUINO, ROXAS STILL THE PEOPLES’ CHOICE

PULSE ASIA, MST SURVEYS: NOY-MAR NO. 1!

Liberal Party standard bearers Senators Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino and Manuel “Mar” Roxas continue to be the peoples’ choice to become the next president and vice president of the country, latest poll surveys released today indicated.

Pre-election surveys conducted by the Pulse Asia and the Manila Standard Today for the month of January showed Aquino and Roxas have maintained their leads over their rivals for the presidential and vice presidential May 10 electoral races.

In the Pulse Asia survey of 1,800 respondents during the period January 22 to 26, Aquino was chosen by 37% of the voters, while 35% chose Nacionalista presidential bet Sen. Manuel Villar.

Former President Joseph Estrada came in third with 12%, followed by former Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro with 5%, religious leader Bro. Eddie Villanueva with 2% and Sen. Richard Gordon, 1%.

In the Pulse Asia vice presidential survey, frontrunner Mar Roxas crushed closest rival Sen. Loren Legarda with a 47% rating, or a staggering lead of 19% over Legarda’s 28%.

Also, Roxas beat Legarda in the MST polls conducted by pollster Pedro Laylo Jr. during the period January 20 to 27. Roxas was chosen by 43% of the 2,500 respondents while Legarda got a picking of only 29%, or a big difference of 14%.

In the said survey, Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay ranked third with a rating of 14%, followed by former MMDA chairman Bayani Fernando with 3% and actor Edu Manzano with 3%.

The pre-election surveys of the Pulse Asia and MST confirmed a similar survey conducted by the polling firm Social Weather Stations (SWS), which showed Roxas’ lead over Legarda ballooning to 21% if elections for the vice presidential race was held today.

In the SWS survey of 2,100 respondents conducted for the BusinessWorld during the period January 20 to 24, Roxas was picked by 49% of the voters while Legarda got a nominal 28%.

In third place was Binay with 16%, followed by Fernando and Manzano, who each got 2%.

Roxas has consistently been the peoples’ choice for the vice presidential race in pre-election surveys conducted by the country’s top polling companies. He has maintained a two-digit lead over his rival vice presidential contenders in all recent surveys, a strong indication of how voters would pick the country’s second highest elective official in this year’s national elections.

The Liberal Party, on the other hand, is confident Aquino will maintain his lead over Villar, saying the numbers would change significantly once the public learns the truth behind the P6.2-billion C5 extension road scandal.

LP campaign manager Florencio Abad said Villar’s rating shoot up purely due to his huge “war chest” which has enabled him to flood the broadcast media with his campaign ads, a far cry to the little air time that Aquino has been able to get due to limited financial resources.

Official figures show Villar outspent the LP bet 7 to 1 in TV advertisements from January 22 to 24, the period when all of the pre-election surveys were conducted.

This is a gimmick that private companies usually engage in to improve the ratings of their products in market research services, Abad said.

He added the LP will intensify Aquino’s television ads during the campaign period to “stabilize his lead.”

SIGLAT AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

2010-02-01T09:04:00.000-08:00

THE MEMBERS OF THE VIGAN CITY COUNCIL HEADED BY VICE MAYOR FRANZ RANCHES RECEIVE A PLAQUE OF RECOGNITION AND A CASH PRIZE OF TEN THOUSAND PESOS FROM GOVERNOR DV SAVELLANO FOR BEING THE OUTSTANDING SANGGUNIAN(LOCAL LEGISLATIVE BODY) OF ILOCOS SUR

TESTIMONIAL DINNER FOR DPWH REGIONAL DIRECTOR MARIANO ALQUIZA AND PNP REGIONAL DIRECTOR POLICE CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT(BRIG. GENERAL) CONSTANTE AZARES,JR

2010-01-29T08:14:00.000-08:00

VIGAN CITY COUNCIL DECLARED AS OUTSTANDING IN ILOCOS SUR BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOV'T AND THE PHILIPPINE COUNCILORS LEAGUE

2010-01-27T06:31:00.000-08:00

PHILIPPINE COUNCILORS LEAGUE (PCL) EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND SANTA COUNCILOR ARTHUR SABALBURO PRESENTS THE TROPHY TO VICE MAYOR FRANZ RANCHES AND THE MEMBERS OF THE VIGAN CITY COUNCIL
PCL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT ARTHUR SABALBURO DELIVERS HIS CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE

VICE MAYOR RANCHES BEAMS WITH PRIDE AS HE GIVES HIS RESPONSE

NOYNOY AQUINO: STILL NO. 1 IN THE PRESIDENTIAL RACE

2010-01-23T21:14:00.000-08:00

PRESS STATEMENT

Office of Senator Mar Roxas

Suite 512 GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Pasay City

Please refer to:

Ms. Jenny Bugarin

Tel. 832-82-80 /+63920-950-6140

January 22, 2010

ROXAS: IN WHATEVER SCENARIO, NOYNOY STILL #1

Liberal Party President Senator Mar Roxas today said that LP standard-bearer Senator Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III still is the candidate to beat in 2010.

Citing new information revealed in a survey commissioned by a Villar ally done by the Social Weather Stations in December 27-28 last year, he said that Noynoy leads by a formidable 4 to 5 million votes in all scenarios explored.

“Bali-baligtarin man nila ang mga numero, iba-ibahin man ang mga scenario, nananaig pa rin ang puwersa para sa tunay na pagbabago na kinakatawan ni Noynoy (The forces of reform as represented by Noynoy consistently prevail in whatever scenario they try to cook up),” he said.

“Ang gusto ng taumbayan, bagong sinaing at hindi ‘yung bahaw kahapon. Ang gusto nila, tunay na pagbabago, hindi ang dating kalakaran (The people want newly cooked rice, not yesterday’s leftover rice. They want real change, not more of the same),” he stressed.

In a commissioned survey by the Social Weather Stations, Aquino retains his lead with a 44% rating, leading his next competitor by 11 percentage points. This is the main scenario, where all 8 presidential candidates are listed.

Aquino also maintains a strong lead in these scenarios (see attached):

· If former President Joseph Estrada is not listed, a lead of 11 points.

· If administration candidate Gilbert Teodoro is not listed, 10 points.

· In all three-way battle scenarios (with Senator Manuel Villar and either Estrada or Teodoro), 10 points.

· In a one-on-one battle with Villar, 8 points.

“Iisang scenario lang ang makatotoo, at iyon ay ang pananaig ni Noynoy sa pito pang kandidato (Only one scenario is closer to the truth, and this is where Noynoy leads the seven other candidates),” he stressed.

“Ang tanging pangontra ng mga katunggali ni Noynoy sa kanyang plataporma para sa tapat at tuwid na gobyerno ay paggastos sa mga patalastas at mga paninirang walang basehan. Nilulunod nila ang radyo at telebisyon, sa puntong halos purgang-purga na ang publiko sa mga ito (The only means the competition has to counter Noynoy’s platform for clean and honest governance is to splurge in advertising and in black operations. They are bombarding the airwaves to the point of saturation),” he said.

“Pero ang pinakamahalaga: 50% man si Noynoy, 20% o kahit pa 1%, pursigido siya sa laban para sa tapat at tuwid na pamumuno (What’s most important is whether Noynoy’s rating is 50%, 20% or even 1%, he is committed to the fight for clean and honest government),” he stressed.

OUTSTANDING SANGGUNIAN OF ILOCOS SUR

2010-01-22T01:28:00.000-08:00

We have been declared as Outstanding Sangguniang of the Province of Ilocos Sur by virtue of an evaluation conducted by a joint team composed of representatives from the Department of Interior and Local Government, Philippine Councilors League, Department of Environment and Non-Government Organizations. This is the second time that the Vigan City Council won as Outstanding Legislative Body in the province. The first was in 2007 and this is also the second time that we have been the first runner-up in Region I(Ilocos Region).

As the humble Presiding Officer, I feel a sense of fulfillment for steering the City Council for the past nine years. As I bow down from my office as Vice Mayor(I'm on my last term), all I can say is THANK YOU for giving me the chance to shape the destiny of our beloved Vigan.

VILLAR HOUNDED BY C5 ROAD ISSUE

2010-01-20T18:35:00.000-08:00

PRESS RELEASE

Butch Abad

General Campaign Manager

Aquino-Roxas 2010 Campaign

Tel. (02) 470-4107

butchabad@gmail.com

Villar Should Man Up: Accept Enrile Challenge

Instead of crying foul , Sen. Manny Villar should accept Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile’s challenge to prove his predecessor isn’t a coward and debate the merits of the Enrile’s C5 Report. This is a crucial leadership test to see if Villar can truly dispute the damning findings and recommendations of the Report, which has been indorsed by a majority of the Senators.

The tactic of absenting himself and his allies from the session has been called chicken-like behavior by Villar and his attempt to mount a coup against the Senate leadership only cements the public perception that Villar cannot dispell charges of violation of conflict of interest provisions of the Constitution and improper and unethical conduct as a Senator.

According to the Report, these transgressions—the illegal diversion of the C5 Road, the wastage of land bought for right-of-way and undue gains obtained from the appreciation of real estate values-- cost the Filipino people P6.22B in precious funds that could have been used for badly needed public services.

With only seven session days left, the Senate must dispose of the Report. The question of moral fitness to govern for a candidate aspiring for the highest position in the land will hound Villar no end if he continues to employ evasive tactics. Villar has to remember that corruption and abuse of power are key issues in this campaign. ###

--
Mahalaga ang Tao, Mahalaga ang Pilipino

LIBERAL PARTY NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
2nd Floor Matrinco Building
2178 Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City
website: www.liberalparty.ph
tel#(02)893-7483 / (02)893-6304
fax# (02)893-0218

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY!

2009-12-23T18:10:00.000-08:00

Let's celebrate Christmas with a pure heart, simple gifts and sincere greetings. The birth of Jesus Christ, our savior is the real essence of Christmas. Giving one's self for the salvation of humanity is what we call TRUE LOVE.

Let's have Peace on Earth!

RUNNING FOR CITY COUNCILOR IN VIGAN UNDER THE LIBERAL PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

2009-12-10T01:52:00.000-08:00

The Liberal Party of Vigan City fielded 5 candidates for councilor for the may 2010 elections.

(L-R) Dr. Cirilo Tejano, Sr., last termer Atty. Ever Molina who will serve as the campaign manager of the group, last termer Vice Mayor Franz Ranches who will be running for councilor, retired education supervisor Lucresia Gonzales, social worker Brenda Molina-Nolasco and not in photo, activist Noree Arcaina.

NOY-MAR MOVEMENT OF ILOCOS SUR

2009-11-08T08:16:00.000-08:00

ORDER OF BUSINESS (NOV. 3, 2009)

2009-11-02T23:23:00.000-08:00

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION - Hon. George Villanueva
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES.
6. REFFERENCE OF BUSINESS
A.COMMUNICATIONS:

B. FOR FIRST READING

i. Draft Resolution No. 09- 37. A resolution authorizing Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina to enter into a Build-Operate-Transfer with Pacific Ecology for the establishment of a Biomass Power plant. Introduced By: Vice Mayor Francisco P, Ranches Jr.

ii. An ordinance Repealing Section 59 of ordinance no. 11 series of 1997 - otherwise known as Vigan Market Code.
Introduced By: SPM GEORGE VILLANUEVA

7. COMMITTEE REPORT.
Committee on Finance
8. CALENDAR OF BUSINESS

THIRD READING
A. Draft Resolution No. 09-34“ A Resolution Authorizing The Local Chief Executive Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina To Enter Into A Contract Of Lease With New Javier Trading Corporation (NJTC) For The Purpose Of Leasing The Space In The 4th Module Of Vigan Public Market As A Location Of The JTC Superstore-Vigan Market Branch.”

B. Draft Appropriation Ordinance No. 09-03 An ordinance appropriating the amount of one million six hundred nineteen thousand eight hundred pesos (Php 1,619,800.00) representing the share of the city government of Vigan from the 2009 Tobacco Excise Taxes (R.A. 7171) for the infrastructure, cooperatives and livelihood projects.

FOR SECOND READING
B. Draft Resolution No. 09- 35 A Resolution Strongly Opposing The Passage And Calling For The Outright Rejection Of House Bill No. 24 And Urging The Honorable Members Of The 14th Congress To Uphold The Ruling Of The Supreme Court In The Case Of LCP Vs. Comelec (G.R. No. 176951, G.R. No. 177499, G.R. No. 178056 November 18, 2008)”

9. OTHER MATTERS
10. ADJOURNMENT

BAMBOO TRAINING PROJECT GRADUATION

2009-10-28T22:38:00.000-07:00

VM Franz Ranches delivers his opening remarks during the graduation of participants in the bamboo training project.
Farmers and agriculturists who particpated in the bamboo training project pose with Mayor Eva Medina, Vice Mayor Franz Ranches, Mr. Romy Sta. Ana (seated at the right of the Mayor) and other officials of the city.

Mayor Medina and VM Ranches are amused with the samples of bamboo products being shown by Mr. Sta. Ana of the Philippine Bamboo Foundation, Inc.

ORDER OF BUSINESS (October 30, 2009)

2009-10-27T01:27:00.000-07:00

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION - Hon. Audie Q. Agdamag
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. ACKNOWLEDGMENT/INTRODUCTION of Children Legislators - Vice Mayor Franz Ranches
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES of October 19, 2009
6. REFFERENCE OF BUSINESS

A.COMMUNICATIONS:
a. FROM: Irene D. Queppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Supplemental Budget of Barangay III, and Barangay IV.
b. FROM: Medardo Estefa De Guzman ( City Police Superintendent)
RE: Traffic Violator Apprehension dated October 19,2009.
c. FROM: Ma. Fatima C. Antonio ( City Accountant)
RE: Financial Statement and Supporting Documents for the Quarter ended September 30,2009

B. FOR FIRST READING
a. Draft Appropriation Ordinance No. 09-03 An Ordinance appropriating the amount of 1,619,800.00 representing the share of the city government of Vigan from the tobacco excise taxes ( RA 7171) for the Infrastructure, Cooperatives and Livelihood projects.
Introduced By: SPM Loreto A. Quibilan.

7. COMMITTEE REPORT.
Committee on Finance
Joint Committee on Market and Revenues .

8. CALENDAR OF BUSINESS
FOR SECOND READING
A. Draft Resolution No. 09- 35 A Resolution Strongly Opposing The Passage And Calling For The Outright Rejection Of House Bill No. 24 And Urging The Honorable Members Of The 14th Congress To Uphold The Ruling Of The Supreme Court In The Case Of Lcp Vs. Comelec (G.R. No. 176951, G.R. No. 177499, G.R. No. 178056 November 18, 2008)

B. Draft Resolution No. 09-34“ A Resolution Authorizing The Local Chief Executive Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina To Enter Into A Contract Of Lease With New Javier Trading Corporation (Njtc) For The Purpose Of Leasing The Space In The 4th Module Of Vigan Public Market With An Approximate Area Of 1,200 Square Meters As A Location Of The Jtc Superstore-Vigan Market Branch.”

9. OTHER MATTERS

10. ADJOURNMENT
Giving of Tokens to the child legislators

MAJORITY OF MARKET VENDORS FAVOR THE COMING OF JTC SUPERSTORE AT THE 4TH MODULE OF THE VIGAN PUBLIC MARKET

2009-10-22T21:34:00.000-07:00

VICE MAYOR FRANZ RANCHES(in stripes t-shirt) ATTENDS THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION CALLED BY THE COMMITTEES ON MARKET AND REVENUES REGARDING THE APPLICATION OF JTC SUPERSTORE TO OCCUPY A 1,200-SQUARE METER AREA AT THE 4TH MODULE OF THE VIGAN PUBLIC MARKET.

IT WAS LEARNED FROM MR. JOE EMPLEO, PRESIDENT OF THE VIGAN MARKET VENDORS ASSOCIATION THAT MAJORITY OF THE VENDORS ARE IN FAVOR OF THE ENTRY OF JTC SUPERSTORE AT THE VIGAN PUBLIC MARKET. NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS SUCH AS THE FEDERATION OF SENIOR CITIZENS AND THE METRO VIGAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ALSO ENDORSED THE ENTRY OF JTC SUPERSTORE.

FAMILY DAY 2009

2009-10-22T20:53:00.000-07:00

MRS. SHEILA LLANES OF THE CITY COUNCIL BARES HER TALENT DURING THE DANCESPORT COMPETITION HELD LAST OCTOBER 21,2009 ON THE OCCASION OF THE VIGAN CITY FAMILY DAY. DANCING WITH HER IS MR. MARK ESPIRITU

VIGAN CITY OFFICIALS DISTRIBUTE COMPUTER SETS TO MEMBERS OF OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS(OFW) FAMILY CIRCLE ASSOCIATION

2009-10-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

DISTIBUTION OF LOAN PROCEEDS FROM THE VIGAN LIVELIHOOD FUND IN COOPERATION WITH THE NUEVA SEGOVIA CONSORTIUM OF COOPERATIVES

2009-10-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

VICE MAYOR FRANZ RANCHES EXPLAINS TO MEMBERS OF THE NUEVA SEGOVIA CONSORTIUM OF COOPERATIVES THE HUMBLE BEGINNINGS OF THE VIGAN LIVELIHOOD FUND

A BORROWER RECEIVES THE PROCEEDS OF HER LOAN FROM MAYOR EVA MEDINA. WITNESSING THE EVENT ARE (L-R) COUNCILOR GEORGE VILLANUEVA, VICE MAYOR FRANZ RANCHES, COUNCILOR LORETO QUIBILAN AND (EXTREME RIGHT) NSCC CEO DIVINA QUEMI

VICE MAYOR RANCHES ATTENDS AYUSAN NORTE BRGY. FIESTA

2009-10-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

INTERNATIONAL BOXING CHAMPION NONITO DONAIRE VISITS VIGAN

2009-10-21T10:06:00.000-07:00

THE VIGAN SKILLS TRAINING INSTITUTE: Trailblazing in the fight against poverty

2009-10-14T00:59:00.000-07:00

“Education is a key to economic prosperity.” The establishment of a Skills Training Institute in the City of Vigan is one of those identified during the Strategic Planning conducted in 2007. The aim is to provide technical education and training for Biguenos so that they will be equipped with the necessary skills in finding a job either locally or abroad. The City Government of Vigan recognizes the importance of manpower development in the field of job-generation.

The Vigan Skills Training Institute shall serve as training ground for butchers(eskwela de los mataderos), restorers(eskwela talyer), linguists(instituto de lenguages), cultural heritage specialist guides, hair stylists, make-up artists, bartenders, hotel workers among others. In collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the City of Vigan by virtue of a resolution allowed the use of its land by the former to serve as its Provincial Office in Ilocos Sur. On the otherhand, In response to the request of Mayor Eva Medina, the Vigan City Council allotted funds in a supplemental budget for the construction of the Vigan Skills Training Institute Building and the purchase of equipments and supplies. The Council also approved the creation of permanent positions needed for the Institute.

The recent inclusion of Vigan in the list of next wave cities, makes the situation even more encouraging. The Vigan Skills Training Institute shall also become a training center for the manpower pool needed for Business Process Outsourcing and I.T. –related businesses such as call and animation centers, legal and accounting services and the like. I’m optimistic that the outcome of this program shall truly redound to the benefit of the people.

PRAYER AND REFLECTION

2009-10-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

DEAR LORD, AS WE TRY TO RECOVER FROM THE RAVAGES OF TYPHOONS ONDOY AND PEPENG, GIVE US THE STRENGTH TO FACE THE HARDSHIPS OF LIFE. GUIDE US SO THAT OUR FAITH IN YOU REMAINS UNWAVERING. MAKE US BEAR IN OUR MINDS THAT THESE TRIALS ARE NOT ONLY NATURAL BUT WITH A CORRESPONDING MAN-MADE CONTIBUTION.

ALMIGHTY LORD, MAKE THE FILIPINO NATION REALIZE HOW IMPORTANT IT IS TO PRACTICE PROPER WASTE DISPOSAL. ENLIGHTEN ALL OF US TO CONTIBUTE SOMETHING FOR THE REDUCTION OF CARBON EMISSIONS SO THAT CLIMATE CHANGE CAN BE PROPERLY ADDRESSED.

MAKE US BE AWARE THAT THE UNREGULATED USE OF OUR NATURAL RESOURCES SUCH AS ABUSIVE MINING ,QUARRYING, AND ILLEGAL LOGGING DEGRADES THE ENVIRONMENT WHICH COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE LANDSLIDES AND SOIL EROSION.

EMPOWER THE LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO COME UP WITH A SUSTAINABLE AND IMPLEMENTABLE PLAN, WHICH SHALL INCLUDE DISASTER PREPAREDNESS IN ORDER TO PROTECT THE GENERAL WELFARE.

WE THANK YOU LORD FOR SPARING OUR BELOVED VIGAN FROM THE WORSE BUT WE PRAY AND SYMPATHIZE WITH THOSE HARDLY HIT BY THE CALAMITIES.

HELP US RISE AND RE-BUILD OUR COMMUNITIES. HELP US MAKE THE PHILIPPINES A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE IN. THIS WE ASK THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF MOTHER MARY. AMEN

Feeding Program for children of Bulala, Vigan City

2009-09-15T02:26:00.000-07:00

In line with celebration of the Legislators' Week, Vigan Vice Mayor Franz Ranches spearheaded a feeding program for selected children of Barangay Bulala. This is in line with City Council's commitment to prioritize the welfare of children.

ORDER OF BUSINESS (September 14, 2009)

2009-09-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION Hon Benedicto Jose Verzosa
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. QUESTION HOUR
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. September 1, 2009
7. COMMUNICATIONS:

a. FROM: Herminia R. Bundoc ( Provincial Secretary)
RE: Approved Ordinance No. 04-2009 (Environment Code) date approved September 1, 2009
b. FROM: Irene D. Queppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Supplemental Budget of Barangay IX and Barangay V.
c. FROM: Bureau of Local Government Finance ( Department of Finance)
RE: Re- Classification of Average Annual Income of Cities effective July 29, 2008.
d. FROM: Elpidio Que
RE: Alleged under declaration of income of companies allegedly owned by Mr. Lucio Tan.

8. FOR FIRST READING.
a. Draft Ordinance No. 09- 14 An Ordinance regulating the carrying of firearms and other deadly weapons in all tourist oriented establishment in the City of Vigan”
Introduced By: SPM George J. Villanueva, SPM. Loreto A.Quibilan and SPM Henry A.Formoso

9. COMMITTEE REPORT.
a.Committee on Finance
b.Committee on Labor

9.CALENDAR OF BUSINESS
10. OTHER MATTERS
11.ADJOURNMENT

VIGAN: A NEXT WAVE CITY

2009-07-29T10:57:00.000-07:00

Vice Mayor Franz Ranches tries to convince an investor to consider Vigan as an investment site for call centers.

The City of Vigan is the newest addition to the list of Next Wave Cities. According to ICT Commissioner Mon Ibrahim, the formal announcement will be on November this year. This is a welcome development for the Heritage City considering that it will be one of the selected investment sites for IT-related businesses outside Metro Manila.

GET INVOLVED IN LOCAL GOVERNANCE, MAKE A DIFFERENCE! (speech delivered during the convocation of the UNP College of Law, Vigan City on July 25, 2009)

2009-07-29T04:08:00.000-07:00

The study of law is a tough discipline. Passing the bar is even tougher. In this field of endeavor, expect the unexpected. The ordinary becomes extraordinary and sometimes the excellent becomes average. In law school, everybody is in equal footing.

For the past years, the City Council of Vigan gave recognition to its new lawyers by tendering an annual testimonial for Bigueno bar passers. We are doing this because we want to establish a rapport between the law profession and the local government. We want the lawyers and those studying law to recognize that politics is the art of governance. We want you to realize that there is no such thing as dirty politics “maduming pulitika.” Yes, there are undesirable politicians, but politics remains in the real sense, the science or art of governance. Every citizen then should participate and have a voice in our political system. As students of this institution, you are trained to know the fundamentals and technicalities of the law. But, it should not stop there, encourage yourselves to develop a “watchdog mentality.” Get involved in local governance. We need your opinions, comments, criticisms and critical minds to improve the quality of governance in our community. Be catalysts for social change.

On the otherhand, we want lawyers and those taking up law to provide us the necessary knowledge and skill in establishing a law-abiding community. We want you to help us promote and protect human rights, uphold and dispense justice and fair play, respect and defend the constitution and existing laws. We want you to help us promote good governance.

You are not here just to become lawyers. Your ambition should be beyond that. Don’t just aim to pass the in your subjects or graduate in this law school, or pass the bar. Aim more, show to the world that the ordinary in you can become extraordinary. Show to the world that the average in you can become excellent. Show to the world that they should expect the unexpected from you. You are here with a mission and let’s all make a difference.

FINISHED BUSINESS (JULY 20, 2009)

2009-07-25T03:38:00.000-07:00

1. Supplemental Budget of Barangay Panday Daya was approved on review.

2. Draft Ordinance No. 09-09, An ordinance providing for an allowance of at least One Thousand Pesos (Php 1,000.00) a month to Barangay Nutrition Scholars, in the City of Vigan was not recommended for second reading.

3. A Resolution Granting the Application of Mrs. Carmeling Crisologo for the Construction of The Holy Camp Cemetery Located at the Southeast Wing of the Old Cemetery in Barangay VII, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur and Recommending the Issuance of an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) was approved on final reading.