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

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

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

INTERNATIONAL BOXING CHAMPION NONITO DONAIRE VISITS VIGAN

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

“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

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

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)

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

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)

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)

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.

ORDER OF BUSINESS (JULY 20, 2009)

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Hon. Henry A. Formoso
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. PRIVILEGE SPEECH (Hon. Benedicto Jose P. Verzosa)
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. July 13, 2009

6. REFERENCE OF BUSINESS

COMMUNICATIONS:
a)FROM: Elvira R. Racsa ( Barangay Kagawad of Ayusan Norte)
RE: Motion for Reconsideration on Administrative case No. 2008-2
b)FROM: Eva Marie S. Medina ( City Mayor)
RE: Appointment of Mr. Dante G. Hipolito as City Assessor 1 (SG-25) for concurrence.

b)FOR FIRST READING. “
Draft Resolution No. 09-21 A Resolution Requesting the Hon. Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina for the Establishment of a Botika ng Bayan exclusively for Senior Citizens, Handicapped and persons with disability residing in the City of Vigan .”
Introduced By SPM Audie Q. Agdamag

Draft Ordinance No. 09-11 An Ordinance Prescribing the ticketing system for tourists in the City of Vigan.
Introduced By SPM. Benedicto Jose P. Verzosa.

7. COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee on Finance & Appropriation ( 2)
8.CALENDAR OF BUSINESS
For Second Reading
Draft Resolution No. 09- 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).
9. OTHER MATTERS

10. ADJOURNMENT

FINISHED BUSINESS (JUNE 13, 2009)

Supplemental budgets of Barangay Camangaan and Barangay Rugsuanan were approved on review.

ORDER OF BUSINESS (July 13, 2009)

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Hon. George J. Villanueva
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. July 6, 2009

5. REFERENCE OF BUSINESS

COMMUNICATIONS:
a) FROM: Margarito C. Dela Cruz ( Assistant Secretary of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao)
RE: Resolution No. 01756-09, Series of 2009 other wise know as “Requesting Congress through the Speaker of the House of Representative and the Senate President to consider repealing the Automatic debt payment law in the light of global economic meltdown.
b) FROM: Irene D. Queppet ( City Budget Officer)

RE: Supplemental Budget of Barangay Pantay Daya.
c) FROM: Cedric Genovia Dayta ( Secretary of the Sangguniang Bayan of Lugait)
RE: Resolution No. 925, series of 2009

b) FOR FIRST READING ---

6. COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee on Finance & Appropriation
Committee on Health
Committee on Public Safety
Committee on Oversight
Committee on Market
7. CALENDAR OF BUSINESS
FOR Second Reading
Draft Ordinance No. 09-08 An Ordinance establishing guidelines on the marginal farmers and fishermen’s market day every Wednesday of the week at the Vigan Public Market.
8. OTHER MATTERS

9. ADJOURNMENT

TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE (Message delivered during the Testimonial Program for New Lawyers of Vigan on July 6, 2009)

We have started a tradition, not of conducting testimonials for passers of the bar but a TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE. The bar examination is one of the hardest, if not the hardest, government examinations being administered in the Philippines and this is the last step before a law graduate can practice the law profession.

Do we really need lawyers in our country ? Whether we like it or not, lawyers perform an important role in our community. Through them, justice is expected to be dispensed effectively. Through them, rights are expected to be upheld. Through them, equality and fairness are expected to be given where it is due.

We are proud of you, Atty. Cajigal, Atty. Favis and Atty. Centeno. We join your families and loved ones in this simple but meaningful ceremony.

CONGRATULATIONS!

TESTIMONIAL PROGRAM FOR THE NEW LAWYERS OF VIGAN

VM Franz Ranches recognizes the important role of lawyers in community-building.
Atty. Wilbur Cajigal delivers his message of gratitude.

Atty. Joseph Darren Centeno remembers his hardships and sacrifices in law school.

Atty. Ma. Cristina Favis states her intention to serve her City although she is now gainfully employed in a law office in Manila.

The new lawyers of Vigan beam with pride as they receive their Certificates of Recognition from the City Officials of Vigan. Members of their families witnessed said occasion.

FINISHED BUSINESS (JULY 1 AND JULY 6, 2009)

>Promulgation of a decision suspending kagawad Elvira Racsa of Ayusan Norte. (respondent can file a motion for reconsideration or administrative appeal within the reglamentary period)

> Supplemental Budgets of Barangay Camanggaan, and Barangay Rugsuanan were approved on review.

>A Resolution establishing the Vigan City Skills Training Institute was approved on final reading.

ORDER OF BUSINESS (JULY 6, 2009)

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Hon. Audie Q. Agdamag.
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. June 22, July 1, 2009
6. COMMUNICATIONS:

FROM: Irene D. Quppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Supplememntal Budget of Barangay Camanggaan, and Barangay Rugsuanan.
FROM: Maximo Ramiscal Torricer ( Acting Chief of Police)
RE: Traffic Violator Apprehensions dated July 6,2009.
FROM: Austere A. Panadero ( Undersecretary DILG)
RE: National Movement of Young Legislators 2009 Luzon Congress on July 23-25 at Camarines Sur Sports Complex , Camarines Sur.

7. FOR FIRST READING.
1. Draft Resolution No. 09-20 “A Resolution establishing the “Vigan City Skills Training Center” as a training institution of the City of Vigan.”
Introduced By : SPM Henry A. Formoso

8. COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee on Finance & Appropriation

(Joint Committee Report) Market and Agriculture
Committee on Health.

9.CALENDAR OF BUSINESS
For Second Reading “A Resolution Granting The Application Of Mrs. Carmeling Crisologo For The Construction Of The Holy Camp Cemeterty 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).”

10. OTHER MATTERS

11. ADJOURNMENT

ORDER OF BUSINESS (JULY 1, 2009)

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Hon. Lourdes DG. Baquiran
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. June 22, 2009.
6. REFFERENCE OF BUSINESS
COMMUNICATIONS:
FROM: Irene D. Queppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Supplemental Budget of Barangay San Julian Norte, Purok a Dackel and Barangay Raois.

FROM: Zuleika T. Lopez ( Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao)
RE: Information and Supporting House Bill 5213, otherwise known as “An act providing for the additional support and compensation for Educators in basic Education”.

FOR FIRST READING---
7. COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee Report on Finance & Appropriation
Committee on Rules

8. CALENDAR OF BUSINESS
FOR FINAL READING---

9. OTHER MATTERS
Resolution of Administrative case No 2008-2 =Spouses Melvin Cayabyab versus Brgy. Kagawad Elvira Racsa.
10. ADJOURNMENT

VISITORS FROM OUR SISTER MUNICIPALITY, SAN MARIANO, ISABELA,

Councilor Jerome Miranda of San Mariano, Isabela gives his response after the welcome remarks of Vice Mayor Franz Ranches

LOCAL GOVERNMENTS SHOULD INVITE INVESTORS IN RENEWABLE ENERGY

Local governments should try enticing the private sector to invest in renewable energy projects. This is a way of addressing climate change through the reduction of carbon emissions. Incentives are being offered to investors and developers of "green" energy. Here in the Philippines, the passsage of R.A. 9513 (Renewable Energy Act)and its implementing rules and regulations is a breakthrough in pursuing this concern. Under the law, the following are the fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for investors in renewable energy:

Ø Seven-year income tax holidays for Renewable Energy (RE) developers;
Ø Exemption from VAT and duty-free importation of equipment and machinery;
Ø Reduction of corporate income tax after the expiry of the income tax holiday to 10 percent of net income;
Ø Zero percent VAT rate for the sale of power from RE
Ø Duty-free importation of equipment;
Ø Tax credit on domestic capital equipment and services;
Ø Special realty tax rates, income tax holidays, net operating loss carry-over, accelerated depreciation and exemption from the universal charge and wheeling charges;
Ø Exemption from all taxes of the proceeds from the sale of carbon credits;
Ø Assurance to investors in wind, solar, ocean, run-of-river hydropower and biomass in electricity generated from these clean sources through feed-in tariffs.

The institutionalization of a renewable portfolio standard requiring the country’s electric utilities to obtain a certain portion of their electricity from clean, home grown renewable energy sources is being sought in this new law.

Local governments can offer a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) scheme to prospective investors.

FINISHED BUSINESS (JUNE 22, 2009)

Supplemental Budgets of Barangay San Pedro , Barangay Ayusan Norte and Barangay Pantay Laud were approved on review by the Vigan City Council.

VIGAN CITY COUNCIL ORDER OF BUSINESS (JUNE 22, 2009)

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Hon. Vice Mayor Francisco P. Ranches Jr.
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. Privileged Speech -SPM. George J. Villanueva
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. June 15, 2009.
7. REFFERENCE OF BUSINESS

COMMUNICATIONS:
a. FROM: Irene D. Queppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Supplemental Budget of Barangay San Pedro , Barangay Ayusan Norte And Barangay Pantay Laud.
b.FROM: Councilor Everin F. Molina
RE: Letter to Mr Somera to formalize the issue of unpaid overtime pay.

FIRST READING.
1. Draft Ordinance No. 09-09 “ An Ordinance providing for an allowance of at least one thousand pesos a month to Barangay Nutrition Scholars, in the City of Vigan”
Introduced By SPM. Benedicto Jose P. Verzosa and SPM. Everin F. Molina

2. Draft Ordinance No. 09-10 An ordinance requiring all banking institutions, groceries and malls in Vigan City to install video monitoring devices inside and outside their premises.
Introduced by VM Francisco P. Ranches, Jr.

8. COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee Report on Finance & Appropriation

9. CALENDAR OF BUSINESS--
FOR FINAL READING--

10. OTHER MATTERS
Letter of Mr. Elpidio Que

Resolution of Administrative case No 2008-2 - Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Cayabyab versus Brgy. Kagawad Elvira Racsa.

11. ADJOURNMENT

VISITORS FROM ISABELA AND BATANGAS

THE PLANNING OFFICER AND STAFF OF SANTIAGO CITY, ISABELA POSE WITH MAYOR MEDINA, VICE MAYOR RANCHES, COUNCILOR QUIBILAN, COUNCILOR VILLANUEVA AND COUNCILOR FORMOSO.

BATANGAS BOARD MEMBER ROMAN "BOY" ROSALES(in blue shirt) PAYS HIS COURTESY TO THE OFFICIALS OF VIGAN REPRESENTED BY VM FRANZ RANCHES AND LIGA NG MGA BARANGAY PRESIDENT JAYPEE SINGSON.

VIGAN ENVISIONS THE USE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY

Mayor Eva Medina and PEEI President Cezar Pacheco shake each other's hand after signing the Memorandum of Agreement for the conduct of a feasibilty study for the establishment of a Biomass Power Plant. Acting as witnesses are Councilor Max Alves (extreme left), Vice Mayor Franz Ranches (in blue shirt) and Councilor Lulu Baquiran (extreme right).

The City of Vigan is eyeing to tap the use of Biomass (conversion of agricultural waste into electricity) for its power supply. Cognizant of the adverse effects of climate change and global warming due to excessive carbon emissions, the City Government of Vigan in its attempt to contribute to the reduction of such, entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Pacific Ecology and Environment, Inc.(PEEI) for the conduct of a feasibility study for the establishment of a Biomass Power Plant in this Heritage City.

If found feasible, Pacific Ecology and Environment, Inc. will construct the renewable energy plant on a Built-Operate-Transfer scheme. This will spare the city from spending at least 200 million pesos and can channel its limited resources to other equally important projects.

FINISHED BUSINESS (JUNE 15, 2009)

The Supplemental Budgets of Barangay V, Barangay San Jose, Barangay Nagsangalan and Barangay II were approved by the City Council upon review.

VIGAN CITY COUNCIL ORDER OF BUSINESS (JUNE 15,2009)

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Hon. Edreen Jeremiah F.Pajaro
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. June 8, 2009.
6. REFFERENCE OF BUSINESS

COMMUNICATIONS:
a. FROM: Irene D. Queppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Supplemental Budget of Barangay V, Barangay San Jose, Barangay Nagsangalan and Barangay II.

FOR FIRST READING
a. Draft Ordinance No. 09-08, An Ordinance Establishing Guidelines on the Marginal Farmers and Fishermen's Market Day every Wednesday of the Week at the Vigan Public Market.
Introduced by: Councilor Everin F. Molina

7. COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee on Finance & Appropriation

8.CALENDAR OF BUSINESS---
9. OTHER MATTERS
10. ADJOURNMENT

VISITORS FROM STA. TERESITA, CAGAYAN

As I have promised to my visitors from Sta. Teresita, Cagayan, I am publishing this souvenir photo in my blog. I had a pleasant chat with these department heads when they came to Vigan several days ago to observe on matters involving governance.

MEMBERS OF MONUZ(NUEVA ECIJA) CITY COUNCIL VISIT VIGAN CITY(ILOCOS SUR)

The members of the City Council of Vigan and Monuz

Vice Mayor Alberto Tobias, Jr. of Monuz meets Vice Mayor Franz Ranches of Vigan City

FINISHED BUSINESS (JUNE 8, 2009)

An Ordinance appropriating the amount of six hundred sixty nine thousand seven hundred thirty six pesos (Php 669,736.00) representing the share of the City government of Vigan from the 2008 tobacco excise taxes (R.A. 7171).

(Approved on final reading)

VIGAN CITY COUNCIL ORDER OF BUSINESS (JUNE 8,2009)

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Hon. John Patrick A. Singson.
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. June 1, 2009.
6. REFFERENCE OF BUSINESS

COMMUNICATIONS:
a. FROM: Herminia R. Bundoc ( Provincial Secretary)
RE: Approved Ordinance. 02-09 (River Cruise Ordinance) June 2, 2009
b. FROM: Irene D.Queppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Annual Budget of Barangay Salindeg
c. FROM: Irene D. Quppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Supplemental Budget of Barangay VI.

FOR FIRST READING ---

7. COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee Report on Finance & Appropriation

8. CALENDAR OF BUSINESS
FOR FINAL READING
Draft Appropriation Ordinance No. 09-02 An Ordinance appropriating the amount of six hundred sixty nine thousand seven hundred thirty six pesos (Php 669,736.00) representing the share of the City government of Vigan from the 2008 tobacco excise taxes (R.A. 7171)

9. OTHER MATTERS
10. ADJOURNMENT

MAR ROXAS POSTS FIVE-POINT GAIN IN LATEST PULSE ASIA SURVEY

According to Pulse Asia's latest survey (May 14-17, 2009) of who would be the voter's choice of the next Philippine President, Vice President Noli de Castro has 18 percent from 19 percent; Sen. Chiz Escudero has 17 percent from 17 percent; Deposed President Joseph Estrada has 15 percent from 16 percent; Sen. Manny Villar has 14 percent from 15 percent; and Sen. Mar Roxas leaped to 13 percent from 8 percent. Analysts say that the five aspirants are in a statistical tie, given a margin of error of plus-or-minus 3 percentage points at the 95 percent confidence level.

Presidential aspirant Mar Roxas is noticeably No. 1 in the Visayas. A Philippine Daily Inquirer report (June 2, 2009) stated that Roxas attributed his five-point gain in the latest Pulse Asia Survey to his pro-poor advocacies and programs. With the presidential election still a year away, and support for Roxas consistently snowballing, I am confident that a Liberal President will lead this nation to a new brand of politics.

FINISHED BUSINESS (JUNE I, 2009)

The following have been approved by the Vigan City Council:

1. An Ordinance regulating the sale, distribution, possession or use of fire crackers, pyrotechnic devices and other similar explosives within the territorial jurisdiction of Vigan City (approved on final reading).

2. An Ordinance enacting the Environment Code of the City of Vigan (approved on final reading).

3.An Ordinance appropriating the amount of Six Hundred Sixty Nine Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty Six Pesos (PHP 669,736.00) representing the share of the City Government of Vigan from the 2008 Tobacco excise taxes (R.A. 7171) for the infrastructure, cooperaives and livelihood projects (approved on final reading).

4. A resolution endorsing the application of TAJ Business Center, Old Vigan Public Market Property (City of Vigan), Cyber North Vigan, and the University of Northern Philippines (UNP) Computer Center to be declared as Economic Zone pursuant to R.A. 7016 (Special Economic Zone Act) as amended by R.A. 8748 (approved on final reading).

VIGAN CITY COUNCIL ORDER OF BUSINESS (JUNE 1, 2009)

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Hon. Benedicto Jose P. Verzosa
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. May 25, 2009.
6. REFFERENCE OF BUSINESS

COMMUNICATIONS:
1. FROM: Irene D. Queppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Supplemental Budget of Barangays VIII, IV, VII, Purok A Bassit, Capangpangan, San Julian Barangay Mindoro and Barangay Cabaroan Laud.
2. FROM: Herminia R. Bundoc ( Provincial Secretary)
RE: Approved Res/ Ord No. 12-2008.
3. FROM: Ma. Fatima C. Antonio ( City Accountant)
RE: Financial Statement and Supporting Documents for the Quarter ended March 31, 2009

FOR FIRST READING .
Draft Ordinance N. 09-07 An Ordinance formulating and establishing the Vigan Tourism Code which provides for the rules and regulation governing the tourism industry in the City of Vigan, its promotion, development and administration, and prescribing penalties for violation thereof.
Introduced By: Vice Mayor Francisco P. Ranches Jr. and SPM. Everin F. Molina

COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee on Finance (2)

CALENDAR OF BUSINESS
For Final Reading
1. Draft Ordinance No 09-03 An Ordinance regulating the sale, distribution, possession or use of fire crackers, pyrotechnic devices and other similar explosives within the territorial jurisdiction of Vigan City.
2. Draft Ordinance 08-05 An Ordinance enacting the Environment Code of the City of Vigan

9. OTHER MATTERS
10. ADJOURNMENT

VIVA VIGAN FESTIVAL (May 1-5, 2009)

(((Top Photo) Vice Mayor Franz Ranches reads the Biography of Don Isabelo delos Reyes, founder of the Philippine Labor Movement, an Illustrious Son of Vigan.

(Above Photo) City Officials led by Mayor Eva Medina and Vice Mayor Franz Ranches open the Viva Vigan Festival and Labor Day Celebration on May 1, 2009.

Participants of the "Binatbatan" streetdancing contest are all smiles despite the heavy scourge of the sun.

Local and foreign tourists visit Vigan to witness the Festival of Culture and the Arts.

FINISHED BUSINESS (May 25, 2009 Session)

The following have just been approved by the Vigan City Council:

1) An Ordinance regulating the sale, distribution, possession or use of fire crackers, pyrotechnic devices and other similar explosives within the territorial jurisdiction of Vigan City (approved on final reading).

2) Resolution authorizing Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the PCSO for the purchase of an ambulance (approved on final reading).

3) Resolution allowing the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia to construct a Colombarium at the back of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary at Ayusan Sur, Vigan, Ilocos Sur (approved on final reading).

THE VIGAN ENVIRONMENT CODE

The Vigan Environment Code is the City Council's response to the global concern on climate change. Every human being in this planet has to make a contibution no matter how small it is, to address global warming and environmental degradation.

Vigan has been known for its efforts in protecting its rich heritage. Unkown to many, Environmental Protection goes hand in hand with Heritage Conservation. Nature is a part of our heritage. The seas, rivers, trees, the air that we breathe, the flora and fauna and our biodiversity form part of what we call NATURAL HERITAGE. Hence, heritage conservation covers environmental protection.

The environment code is a major piece of legislation which seeks to institutionalize local environmental policies. It complements the City environmental plan and outlines the priority areas which needs to be protected. Issues on Integrated Solid Waste Management, Water Resources, Land Resources, Forest Resources, Mineral Resources, Coastal Management, Air Quality, Biodiversity, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and Environmental Information and Education among others are hereby dealt with extensively.

Make a difference, be a steward of the environment!

VIGAN CITY COUNCIL ORDER OF BUSINESS (May 25,2009)

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Hon. Maximo M. Alves
3. PAMBANSANG AWIT
4. VISION MISSION
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES. May 11,18, 2009.
6. REFFERENCE OF BUSINESS

A. COMMUNICATIONS:
1. FROM: Irene D. Queppet ( City Budget Officer)
RE: Supplemental Budget of Barangay Ayusan Sur and Barangay Paoa.
2. FROM: Local Finance Committee
RE: A position paper of the Local Finance Committee on section 138 ( funding) of the proposed Environment code.
B.FOR FIRST READING ---

7. COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee on Finance

8. CALENDAR OF BUSINESS

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Draft Ordinance No 09-03 An Ordinance regulating the sale, distribution, possession or use of fire crackers, pyrotechnic devices and other similar explosives within the territorial jurisdiction of Vigan City.
2. Draft Ordinance enacting the Environment Code of the City of Vigan

3. Draft Resolution authorizing Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the PCSO for the purchase of an ambulance.

4. Draft Resolution allowing the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia to construct a Colombarium at the back of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary at Ayusan Sur, Vigan, Ilocos Sur

9. ADJOURNMENT

PRAYERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL VOLUME II

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With God, everything is possible. Man has to depend on God in everything – in thoughts, in words, in wisdom and in decisions he has to make for himself, for country and for God. He has to believe in the power of prayer. Prayer is very important to man. It is a universal act of adoration, contrition, thanksgiving and supplications.

The City Council of Vigan believes in the significant role of prayer in every legislation it undertakes. That, God’s guidance and wisdom in every deliberation the City Council undertakes has greatly helped every legislator immeasurably.

This book of prayers is an expression and manifestation of the Vigan City Council’s recognition of and dependence on God’s counsel and wisdom. It contains every Legislators’ aspirations for good governance. This collection of invocations preserves the opening prayers in all the sessions of the City Council for the period of July 3, 2006 to June 25, 2007. Finally, it serves as a social document, reference and repository of cultural heritage, an embodiment of the political aspirations, a legacy of the Vigan City Council. (Prepared by Ms. Min Reolalas, consultant to the Vice Mayor)

THE 2009 CITY BUDGET

As early as November 26, 2008, the Vigan City Council and the Local Chief Executive approved Appropriation Ordinance No. 5, Series of 2008, enacting the 2009 City Budget amounting to Php 200,159,341.29 (Two Hundred Million One Hundred Fifty Nine Thousand Three Hundred Forty One and 29/100) Pesos. 66% of which comes from the IRA(Internal Revenue Allotment from the National Government) and 34% from local sources, specifically from Business Income(18%), Local Taxes(11%), Service Income(3%), and General Income(permits and licenses, 2%).

Out of the total budget, the amount of Php 54,200,000.00 has been allotted for the City’s Development Fund, mainly categorized as follows:
1. Economic Development ---- Php 25,000,000.00
2. Social Development ---------- Php 18,200,000.00
3. Environmental Development -- Php 11,000,000.00.

Furthermore, Php 98,320,100.45 Million has been earmarked for Personal Services; Php 26,669,585.54 Million for Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses(MOOE); Php 9,010,183.30 Million for the Calamity Fund; PhP 8,285,000.00 Million for Capital Outlay; Php 3,557,472.00 Million for Financial Expenses; and Php 117,000 Thousand for Aid to Barangays.

The Annual Budget is the financial plan of the City and in accordance with the approved development plan.

VIGAN CITY COUNCIL LAKBAY-ARAL 2009

INTERNATIONAL BOXING CHAMPION BRIAN VILORIA VISITS VIGAN

ILOCOS SUR RED CROSS YOUTH LEADERSHIP SEMINAR

VM Ranches stresses the importance of good character as indispensable leadership tool.

A certificate of appreciation is being given to Vice Mayor Franz Ranches for being the guest speaker during a leadership seminar sponsored by the Ilocos Sur Red Cross Youth.