News From Bansalan,Philippines

5th Sinulog sa Bansalan (Update : Photos by dehr)

2012-01-29T22:37:00.000-08:00

On the dawn of January 27, 2012 the weather was not so good. But it did not hinder the people in Bansalan ,especially the devotees to the Infant Jesus, to go out and participate on the annual celebration in honor to the Sto. Nino. The thanksgiving mass was officiated by Rev. Cris Violon, DCD the assistant Parish Priest of Immaculate Conception Parish of Bansalan. Fr. Cris cited on his homily that Sinulog should not only be centered on entertainment but should focus on the love Jesus to his people. Sinulog is a thanksgiving to the infant Jesus thru dancing and music. After the mass, which was celebrated infront of the municipal hall, Fr.Cris led the Sinulog dancing despite the rain. Mayor Edwin Reyes, a devotee to the Sto. Nino, rendered thanksgiving and led the Sinulog Dancing. It can be recalled that Mayor Reyes had first introduced Sinulog festival in Bansalan during his first term as mayor.

At around 9:00 in the morning, the street dancing competition started despite the rain. Some suggested that the activity would be held in the ABC Gym instead of making it in the streets of Bansalan. But after a short meeting with the trainors , principals and the dancers, the majority had decided to make it outside the gym. So, there we go..dancing and singing, offering thanksgiving under the rain. God really worked in mysterious ways because the rain had subsided as the main celebration started. Thousands of people from the different barangays and neighboring towns joined the affair. The Hon. Congressman of the 1st District of Davao del Sur in the person of Marc Cagas was also present.

There were eight (8) participating teams from the different public and private schools who rendered their numbers on the open Sinulog Street Dancing contest. The dancers from Managa National High School got the 3rd place while the group from Nazareth High School bagged the second place. The Bansalan Central Elementary School Sinulog Dancers was declared grand champion, retaining their crown and honor because last 2011 Sinulog Dancing Competition they also won the first prize.

In the afternoon, the Bansalan Sinulog Basketball Tournament was held at the ABC Gym and was immediately followed with a free concert at the Viacrusis Park in the evening. Indeed, the celebration of Sinulog sa Bansalan was successful. The whole event was covered live by 91.1 Bansalan FM. To God be the Glory!

5th Sinulog Sa Bansalan

2012-01-26T00:21:00.000-08:00

On January 27, 2012 (friday), thousands of people will participate and witness the 5th Sinulog sa Bansalan. The day would be started with a thanksgiving mass in honor to the Infant Jesus, called by many devotees as Sto. Nino. This year there are eight (8) groups from the different schools in Bansalan who will be joining the Open Sinulog Street Dancing Competition. Big prizes are at stake.
In the afternoon , the championship games from the different divisions of the Sinulog Festival Basketball Tournament will be played at the ABC Gymm. A free concert will be held at the Viacrusis Park in the evening.
The celebration of the Sinulog sa Bansalan is supported by the Local Government Unit on Bansalan, San Miguel Brewery, 91.1 Bansalan FM and Dok Alternatibo : The Expert in Alternative Medine.

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-08T02:31:00.001-08:00

Von Voyage : Heavenly Resting Place Fitting of the truly beloved

2011-12-01T02:35:00.000-08:00

In his search for appropriate jumping board to launch continuing approach in the growth of the town of his birth, Mayor Edwin G. Reyes took the pain of scanning the pages of the legislative records on town zoning and the municipal development plans. He has in mind to build a more fitting resting place of our beloved departed.
Unable to find guide from the works of the past on the development of the municipal public cemetery, the hardworking town mayor summoned his indefatigable alter ego, now EEMO Manager Eric Pabinguit, himself a Cor Jesu Civil Engineering Alumnus and together drew a development perspective of the municipal public cemetery truly an ideal abode of the departed.
“ We will build them a resting place fit for our loved ones because we love them ’’ the town executive declared. It is said that he is not comfortable looking at the sad state of the public cemetery. Others are reported saying that the cemetery is in a condition of sepulchral disarray a little less of a dustbin of society’s refuse. On given the green signal , Pabinguit went to action. At this writing on the occasion of the celebration of the feast day of the beloved departed, there now materializes the envisioned heavenly resting place prior the von voyage ritual for the departed beloved in joining the homing tide to eternity.
Von Voyage, to refer to the cemetery, came about at the time of the workover on the resting place of the departed. Exposed to undue sunlight in personally supervising the project he wanted completed in time for the feast day of the dead, EEMO Manager Pabinguit could not hide his sunburnt complexion. When asked the reason
complexion. When asked the reason, his regular companion in the work supervision said it results from the close supervision in the construction of the Bansalan Von Voyage under the heat of the sun.
Von voyage is a borrowed expression similar to the hispanic vaya con dios or the English farewell meaning goodbye.
The parting good wishes gesture arises from a world view of reality as old as the Greek and Egyptian civilization. Modern Christian thought tells of man being as a being made up of body and soul. When man dies, his soul departs from his mortal form. The mortal remains is buried to decompose as expressed in the line, “ from ashes to ashes”, to be reunited in the hour of resurrection in the second coming.
After officiating the mass celebration for the repose of the dead transferred to the perpetual sepulchre beneath the big cross, Father Diomedes Templa expressed gratitude to Mayor Reyes and G.M Pabinguit saying that there is now more decent place on which to celebrate common prayer for the souls.
Himself confident of keeping his own timeline for the project, Pabinguit speaking as guest during a conference of Tagum City development officials, prided of the results of the training learned, courtesy of the Tagum planners themselves. He invited them to come to Bansalan to see for themselves the transformation of Bansalan especially the town public sacred burial.
Constructed on that portion of the cemetery which used to be utilized as garbage and corn plot of the resourceful and the less civic conscious, there now stands the reception hall where held the rites of passage. There too is the “candelaria”, as well as the symbol of the faith dominant in the community.
At the east side and south side walls are constructed the lodging of the dead. At the east side lodging rooms are the niches where first are rested the departed constructed in uniform design signifying that the occasion of the meeting with the Maker in this stage in the cycle of existence is indeed a great equalizing event as Rizal had said that he is going to a place where no one is a master and none is a slave. It fits to the term “just reward” used in reference to the event.
Underneath the Christian symbol is built the bonage where kept the bones of the long gone and long lost.
At the middle, south of the hall, there stand two rows of bonage one for the children and the other, the second destination after full term of five years of residence at the niches along the east side wall bonage.
The cemetery development program calls for eventual emergence of a totally renovated public cemetery evolving from out the still existing one just like the design of the new risen memorial plaza.
One step already on line is encouraging those concerned to move their lost loved ones to the new niche upon expiration of the term occupancy. This was addressed upon in the October meeting of the cemetery development committee under the chairmanship of Councilor Liza Abril.
Another consideration taken up during the October meeting related with the implementation of the cemetery development plan is the prohibition of burial at the old cemetery.
It is also stressed that in the projected road to run across the new design per the plan should be according to the plan specifications.
simultaneous with the construction of the new public market structure now nearing completion, and another EEMO big project in the public cemetery, there is the bagsakan.
If the public market building construction began February 3 last year is as of date already sixty per cent ( 60% ) completed,
the bagsakan which started construction July this year is about forty per cent ( 40% ) completed.
As of this date, the concrete posts of the structure already stand, the flooring cemented and the concrete walls are already built.
The project cost of ninety eight thousand pesos as appropriated out of the EEMO fund is different from the appropriation for the public market construction.
From out of the amount intended for the construction, a total of Ᵽ97,500.00 is for the construction materials, without labor cost since the construction is by administration. The materials consist of cement costing Ᵽ44,160.00, reinforcement pass costing Ᵽ22,000.00, post strap at Ᵽ2,500.00, sand Ᵽ2,400.00, lumber costing about Ᵽ22,000.00 and Ᵽ3,000.00 worth of nails.
The construction started following the resolution of the Sangguniang Bayan authored by Coun. Fe S. Lao authorizing portion of Azucena Street as temporary display area of vegetable products in time for the completion in the improvement of the Gulayan ng Bayan.
The resolution also authorized the temporary closure of the portion of the same street to vehicular traffic.
The resolution was passed due to the request of EEMO for the temporary stoppage of business operation of the vegetable vendors at the Gulayan ng Bayan pending the completion in the improvement of the facility. The temporary dropping area of products is also moved nearby.

(Source : The Bansalan Economic Enterprise, Nov. 2011 Issue)

Grand Opening Coming Soon Market Building completion on February 3

2011-12-01T02:25:00.000-08:00

Bansalan sees it coming. The people watch the structure rising. From those few shocking days immediately following the December blaze. That burning inferno brought down to ashes the decade - old market building. Mayor Edwin G. Reyes gave in the beginning the word that there will rise from the ashen debris a more imposing trading edifice sooner than soon before knowing it.
The people watch the word becoming everyday a reality. Today the word stands in hard stone and strong steel nearing completion on schedule. According to the contract the period of work completion is one year from February 3, 2011 – February 3, 2012.
The construction firm started the work as stipulated in the contract and it appears that the contractor is religiously observing the stipulation of the contract obviously avoiding the penalties of the infractions.
The contract provides in Article III that in case of any defect on workmanship or materials, it is the responsibility of the contractor to correct any damages resulting from such defects at the contractor’s expense. The contract also stipulates that the procuring entity meaning the municipal government may have the work or repair done by another contractor at the expense of the contractor.
The contract stipulates that the entire works shall be completed within a period of 365 calendar days for the consideration of seventy nine million eight hundred twelve thousand three hundred pesos ( Ᵽ 79,812,300.00 ).
The work on the drainage system construction was given signal to begin with the passage of Sangguniang Bayan Resolution No.301, S,2011 authored by Coun. Eduardo N. Telmo. The resolution authorized the temporary transfer of the dropping point for passenger buses infront of the Viacrusis park along the national highway road right–of–way beyond the 30 meters from center line of the road.
The purpose is for the reconstruction of the public market requiring drainage system.
Letters of advice to those vendors with stalls affected in the construction of the drainage have already been sent to concerned for the purpose.

(Source : The Bansalan Economic Enterprise, Nov. 2011 Issue)

The Bringas Brothers ... From Bansalan to the Whole World

2011-09-28T13:12:00.000-07:00

Yes, they came from Bansalan. They make make our town popular not only in our country but around the world. Last July 9, 2011, ABS-CBN’s Pilipinas Got Talent Season 3 featured the Bringas brothers (Jefferson and Kurt Bringas), as they performed Peter Cetera hit "After All' and were successfully accepted during the Mindanao audition. These two brothers are acoustic musicians from Bansalan, Davao Del Sur, Philippines. But along with their great talent, lies a moving story that would touch everyone’s heart. Kurt Bringas got a stage-four bone cancer and his left leg was amputated when he was 19. According to the doctors then, the cancer had already spread in his major organs and told him that he had only one month to live. He is now 25 and considers the incident as a miracle. As Kris Aquino stated, these guys will definitely become stars.
Two more semi-finalists successfully made it to the Grand Finals of ABS-CBN's reality based talent search, Pilipinas Got Talent (PGT) Season 3. Bringas Brothers of Bansalan, Davao del Sur garnered 36.96% of the total text and online votes to secure the 5th slot for the final round.

Kurt and Jefferson, the “Acoustic Duo,” performed an Extreme hit song “More Than Words” during the performance night on Saturday, September 24, 2011.

Procedure in Getting Business Permit & License in Bansalan Davao del Sur

2011-09-27T02:57:00.000-07:00

REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW BUSINESS PERMIT
(Source : OFFICE OF THE BUSINESS BUREAU)

1. Locational Clearance (MPDC)
2. DTI/SEC/CDA Registration
3. Barangay Clearance (where the business is located)
4. Community Tax Certificate (MTO)
5. Real Property Tax Clearance (MTO)
6. Sanitary Permit (MHO)
7. Fire Inspection Certificate
8. Occupancy Permit/Change of Use Certificate (MEO)
9. Occupational Permit (BBO)
10. Lessor’s Permit (if rented)
11. Others (National Requirements)

PROCEDURE

1. Secure Business Application Form at the Business Bureau Office
2. Submit fully filled-up Application Form together with all the required supporting documents attached to it, for evaluation, assessment, and billing
3. Proceed to the Treasury Office for Payment of Tax & Fees
4. Business Permit/License will be prepared
5. Approval of Business Permit and License (Mayor)
6. Releasing of Business Permit/License

REQUIREMENTS FOR RENEWAL

1. Barangay Clearance
2. Previous year’s Business Permit and Official Receipt (representing payment of the same)
3. Community Tax Certificate (Cidula)
4. Tax Clearance
5. Sanitary Permit
6. Engineering Inspection Certificate
7. Fire Inspection Certificate
8. Occupational Permit – as needed for
9. Market Clearance – for market stallholders
10. Lessor’s Permit (if rented)

PROCEDURE

1. Submit the required documents to the BBO
2. Evaluation, Assessment and Billing
3. Proceed to the Treasury Office for Payment of Tax and Fees
4. Business Permit /License will be prepared
5. Approval of Business Permit & License (Mayor)
6. Releasing of Business Permit/License

RETIREMENT OF BUSINESS

BBO must receive the Application for Retirement after operation of business has stopped/ceased.

REQUIREMENTS FOR BUSINESS RETIREMENT

1. Latest Business Permit
2. Official Receipt representing payments
3. Community Tax Certificate
4. Financial Statement/Sworn Statement of the current year

PROCEDURE

1. Submit the required documents to the BBO
2. Applicant will be given an acknowledgement receipt
3. BBO will inspect the business
4. Assessment will be done for any unpaid obligation
5. Pay at the Treasury Office collector for any delinquency
6. Retirement will be approved

OCCUPATIONAL PERMITS

The application must be renewed and approved by the Mayor before engaging in occupation in the municipality and should be renewed annually before the 20th of January. This is required for all workers in the establishments.

REQUIREMENTS

1. Barangay Clearance
2. NBI/Police Clearance
3. Health Inspection Certificate/Sanitary Permit
4. Food Handlers Training Clearance
5. For Guest Relation Officers (GRO’s) only: HIV Test and PAP Smear
6. I.D. Photo, 1x1
7. Official Receipt

All employees (those who are not subject to Professional Tax Receipt (PTR)) of business establishments shall secure an Occupational Permit simultaneously with the processing of the Mayor’s Business Permit and License.

OTHER SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

(NATIONAL REQUIREMENTS)

1. Home Owners Association Clearance – if in subdivision
2. Occupancy Permit – for New & Renovated structure
3. Contract of Lease – for Lessor & Lessee
4. DEP ED Registration – for learning institutions
5. DENR Certificate – for gravel and sand, lumber
6. BFAD Certificate – for drugstore and food-processing
7. Fertilizer & Pesticide Authority License – for selling such good
8. Potability Test Certificate – for drinking water vendor
9. Traffic Clearance (PNP) – for transport terminal
10. PNP Firecrackers Clearance – for vendor of such good
11. Dangerous Drugs Board Accreditation – for drug selling
12. Others (depending on nature of business)

GUIDELINES IN THE PROCESSING

All business permits and licenses are to be renewed within the first 20 days of January. During this period, the Municipality of Bansalan has a ONE-STOP SHOP program wherein all offices with direct participation in the processing of the application for renewal of business permits and licenses are housed in one place to help facilitate the smooth flow of documents; thus, saving the clientele’s money, time and effort.

Applications for renewal of business permits and licenses processed after the deadline January 20 shall be subject to a surcharge of 25% of the amount of tax and fees or charges including surcharges, until such amount is fully paid.

No business permit and licenses shall be renewed unless payment of business tax on the previous year is fully paid.a

2011-09-13T23:38:00.000-07:00

59th Araw ng Bansalan

2011-09-06T02:46:00.000-07:00

WOW BANSALAN
MUNICIPALITY OF BANSALAN
59TH ARAW NG BANSALAN
SEPTEMBER 10-18, 2011

“PANAGHIUSA: Tulay sa Kalinaw ug Kauswagan”

September 10, 2011
“Walk for a cause”
Municiapal Hall to Nia Dam
Assembly Place: Municipal Hall
Assembly Time: 5:00 AM

Live Band
Sponsored by: San Miguel Brewery Inc.
Viacrusis Park, 7:00PM

September 11, 2011
Mayor Edwin Reyes’ Basketball
Cup Semi-Finals
ABC Gym, 7:00PM

September 12, 2011
Thanksgiving Mass
Municipal Hall, 8:00 AM

Parade (9:00AM)
Opening Ceremony for the 59th Araw ng
Bansalan Celebration
Municipal Hall, 10:30 A.M

Search for little Miss Tourism
ABC Gym, 7:00PM

September 13, 2011
Jobs Fair(Municipal Hall, 8:00 AM)

Opening of Grow Micro Booths
Municipal Ground, 9:00A.M.

Barangay Secretaries’Night
ABC Gym, 7:00 P.M.

September 14, 2011
Opening of Garden Show
Viacrusis Park 8:00AM

Cooking Contest
Municipal Hall, 9:00AM

Teacher’s Night (ABC Gym, 7:00PM)

September 15, 2011
Agri-Day (ABC Gym, 8:00 AM)
-Carabao Costume Parade
-Search for Most Beautiful &
Talented Caretakers

Businessmen Night (ABC Gym, 7:00 PM)

September 16, 2011
Drum & Lyre Presentation
BCES Athletic Ground, 7:00 AM

Cheer Dance Presentation
ABC Gym, 1:00 PM

Disco Concert
Sponsored By: San Miguel Brewery Inc & BTC
ABC Gym, 7:00PM

September 17, 2011
Street Dancing Presentation 7:00 AM
Municipal Ground to
BCES Athletic Ground

Opening of 2 Days Tennis Tournament
8:00AM

September 18, 2011
Parada ng mga Karetela
BCES Ground – Municipal Hall, 7:00AM

Anniversary Program
ABC Gym, 9:00AM

Tennis Tournament
Championship Game 9:00AM
Larong Lahi (Sponsored by: PIGROLAC)
Viacrusis Park, 1:00PM

Mayor Edwin Reyes Basketball Cup
Championship Game ABC Gym, 2:00PM

Bisaya Jokes : Made in Bansalan (DJ Ranz and his 5 year old daughter Inday Miles at 91.1 Bansalan FM)

2011-08-04T06:04:00.000-07:00

Bansaleños @ ABS CBN's Pilipinas Got Talent Season 3

2011-07-09T22:32:00.000-07:00

1st Mayor Edwin G. Reyes Basketball Tournament

2011-06-27T03:06:00.000-07:00

Last June 25, 2011, the long awaited 1st Mayor Edwin G. Reyes Basketball Tournament was finally declared open. Fourteen barangays in Bansalan joined the opening ceremony which was done at the newly renovated ABC Gym. The teams were divided into two (2) categories for the inter-barangay division; and other category for the intercollegiate. Among the teams who submitted their officials entries are the following:

CATEGORY A
1.Poblacion Uno
2. Poblacion Dos
3. Dolo
4. New Clarin
5. Kinuskusan
6. Rizal

CATEGORY B
7. Eman
8. Marber
9. Altavista
10. Managa
11. Alegre
12. Darapuay
13. Mabunga
14. Linawan
15. Tubod
16. Libertad
17. Anonang
18. Sibayan
19. Mabuhay
20. Sto. Niño

CATEGORY C
1. John Paul College of Davao
2. Davao Marine Merchant Academy of Davo
3. Brokenshire College of Davao
4. University of South Eastern Philippines
5. EMAR College of Davao
6. Collegio de Kidapawan

Happy 46th Bday ! Mayor Edwin G. Reyes, June 25, 2011

2011-06-24T17:30:00.000-07:00

Construction of the New Public Market Building

2011-06-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

The contractor shall build it first then upon completion, turn it over to the Local Government Unit of Bansalan (LGU Bansalan). This scheme is widely known as Build and Transfer or BT. The construction of the 2 storey public market building had already started a couple of months ago and it was being handled by RG Salanatin Construction Inc. Projected total project cost is about 70 Million Pesos. The LGU Bansalan thru the leadership of Mayor Edwin G. Reyes, had tapped the assistance of a commercial bank to finance the construction of the modern public market building. It can be recalled that the old building was turned into ashes when a fire sprouted last December 27, 2009.

Bansalan Bridge : On going Construction

2011-06-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

In the coming days, a new and modern bridge will give another landmark of development in Bansalan. The Department of Public Works and Highways had allocated an amount of 20Million Pesos for the construction and widening of the existing bridge along Miral River situated at Poblacion Dos Bansalan Davao del Sur. This development is consistent with the widening of National Highway making it four(4) lanes.

The new bridge will be placed besides the old one, making it more spacious and safety for the motorists and commuters. At present, the construction was handled by Monolitic Construction. The target date of completion will be on or before the end of December 2011.

8 High Valued Crops Suited for Bansalan Soil

2011-05-13T15:28:00.000-07:00

The office of the Municipal Agriculturist of Bansalan had recently conducted a study on High Valued Crops suited in Bansalan. Mr. Julian L. Albores, the Municipal Agriculturist, in coordination with his staff and the Barangay Agricultural Workers had manifested that the crops listed hereunder are best suited in the soil of Bansalan.

1. Rubber
2. Banana
3. Abaca
4. Cacao
5. Coffee
6. Calamansi
7. Passion Fruit
8. Mango

In support to the implementation of Good Agricultural Practices in the municipality, the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist is giving its best in educating local farmers. In fact, an educational radio program has been launched at 91.1 Bansalan FM dubbed as Kalambuan sa Kaumahan (Development in the Farm) to sustain farmers education. Said program is aired every Wednesday and Saturday, 6:00 to 6:30 in the the morning and 6:00 to 6:30 in the evening on the same days. It is a school on the air program with 250 farmer-enrollees.

2011-02-08T13:57:00.001-08:00

Four (4) Lane Highway in Bansalan

After decades of waiting, the national highway in Bansalan Davao del Sur is now on its on going construction for the widening. Additional two lanes are now inplaced making the Poblacion area more convenient for the motorists and commuters. Initial road building started near the main bridge along fronting Petron and Caltex Gas Station up to the point fronting the Municipal Health Center, along UM Site , Ramon delos Cientos St. Bansalan Davao del Sur. In the days to come, construction for the road widening will start in also in Curvada and in the national Highway of KM 77 Bansalan, Davao del Sur.

The Sinulog sa Bansalan Street Dancing Competition

2011-01-14T12:46:00.001-08:00

For those who participated the festival, the physical tiresome doesn't really matter.
It's the act of offering to the Holy Infant Jesus , the Sto Nino that count the most. This is the common feelings of the participants to the 4TH Sinulog sa Bansalan Street Dancing Competition.

The festive mode started with a gesture of thanksgiving mass at Viacrusis Park yesterday , January 14,with Rev.Fr .Cris Violon DCD as the presider. Mayor Edwin Reyes, the founder Sinulog sa Bansalan, sent his message thru the newly established Radio Station in town, inviting all Bansalenos and the people from the neighboring towns to witness the celebration. Reyes being a devotee to the Sto Nino, led the dancing of Sinulog after the celebration of the holy Eucharist.

When the time came for the street dancing begun, there was a little rain. It seemed that heaven had blessed Bansalan with showers from above. But this didn't hinder the devotees to go on. Thousands of spectators didn't only witness the event, but also join the dancing while witnessing the show. There were seven groups who joined the competition to wit : Villa Doneza Elementary School, Nazareth Highschool,
Marber National Highschool, Bansalan Central Elementary School, Mabuhay Elementary
School,Poblacion Uno (Salazar Group) and J.Cutin Group of Poblacion Uno.

The street dancing started at the Viacrusis park , to the national highway, to
public market and finally gathered back at Viacrusis Park for the final showdown. In the end, it was the group from Bansalan Central who was declared as the
champion. Marber National High school got the second place while Villa Doneza Elementary School was proclaimed third.

The whole event was covered live by 91.1 Bansalan FM.

4th Sinulog sa Bansalan

2011-01-11T20:32:00.000-08:00

The 4th Sinulog sa Bansalan will be held this coming January 14, 2010, Friday. At present, the Local Government Unit thru the Office of the Municipal Tourism has been dedicating its time for the preparation of the said event. It can be recalled that that this festive celebration was first introduced by Hon. Edwin G. Reyes to the people of Bansalan during his first few months as mayor last January 2008. Reyes is a devotee to the Holy Infant Jesus, the Sto. Niño. Nine-day novena in honor to Sr. Sto. Nino is also being done at the municipal lobby every afternoon since last week.

For this year's activity, the day will be graced by a celebration of the Holy Eucharist at the Municipal Lobby at 6:00 o'clock in the morning. After the mass, which will be officiated by Rev. Fr. Cris Violon, comes the Sinulog Street Dancing Competition. In the past years, the contest was exclusive only for the employees of the Local Government. However, 2011 is more joyful because the organizers had decided to open it to the different schools and private sectors in Bansalan. There will be a total of seven groups who will join the friendly competition. For them, joining the Sinulog sa Bansalan is not merely a contest, but a gesture of thanksgiving to Sr. Sto.Niño.

The event this coming January 14 will also be covered live by the first FM Radio Station in Bansalan,91.1 Bansalan FM.It is also aired via live audio streaming at www.bansalanfm.weebly.com

Happy 55th Patronal Fiesta

2010-12-03T14:06:00.000-08:00

Immaculate Concepcion Parish of Bansalan will celebrate once again its patronal feast day celebration this coming December 8, 2010. Marian devotees from our parish, have been attending the afternoon novena-mass which started last 29 November 2010. Rev. Fr.Diomedes "Bobong"Templa DCD,our parish priest,is glad that all organizations in the parish as well as the public and private sector in Bansalan have been very supportive in the different fiesta related activities.

After the afternoon's novena mass comes the hermana y hermano, wherein the statue of the Immaculate Conception is brought outside the parish church . Marian devotees will bring the statue of our patron to the different barangays in the parish. The motorcade is accompanied by the newly organized Holy Cross of Bansalan College marching band.

To make the celebration more festive and meaning, people in Bansalan are participating in the nightly program at Rizal Park. This affair is considered as one of the unique traditions of the town.

Happy 55th Patronal Fiesta Celebration 2010!

Happy 58th Town Anniversary!

2010-09-14T19:03:00.000-07:00

Local Election (Official Result ) as proclaimed by the Commission on Election

2010-05-17T01:52:00.000-07:00

FOR GOVERNOR
---------------
CAGAS, Douglas R. 163,440
BAUTISTA, Claude P. 159,527
WANGKAY, Alex B, 11,601
CARRILO, Dominador F. 3,733
VILLAMOR, Rosemarie C. 826

------------------
FOR VICE GOVERNOR

LATASA, Arsenio A. 171,013
BELLO, Merlin B. 107,648
LATASA, Simplicio A. 28,845
VILLABER, Pablo C. 6,987
BANDIGAN, Lorna B. 4,737

--------------------
FOR BOARD MEMBERS (1st District)

CAGAS, Mercedes C. 88,978
LLANOS, Nonito III A. 88,499
ALMENDRAS, Aileen C. 78,645
MOLINA, Ricardo Jr. S. 77,414
MANOS, Marvin V. 63,471
GARCIA, Romualdo C. 62,361
AYO, Rey Q. 60,778
TONGCOS, Francisco B. 58,055
FERNANDEZ, Marc Dominic R. 55,473
RAZONABLE-GASCON, Gladys A. 49,043
FLORES, Alejandro S. 43,929
ALMENDRAS, Alejandro III K. 27,246
------------------------
FOR BOARD MEMBERS ( 2nd District)

BALIOTA, Fatima Grace B. 43,278
COLINA, Allan G. 38,253
PARCASIO, Princess Erum M. 37,787
MASIWEL, Isabelo M. 31,074
GEALON, Ligaya P. 30,891
CALINAWAN, Elmer R. 30,169
BARIBAR, Rogelio Vicente P. 29,169
DIONES, Leopoldo Jr. C. 29,062
MONTERO, Paulito M. 26,730
LICUAN, Serafin F. 24,077
ABANGAN, Genevieve Indira G. 23,719
HORTEL, Dindo S. 22,282
SARMIENTO, Pedro B. 20,724
ABE, Diacarba D. 20,425
MAYOR, Gilbert Romeo K. 10,081
MANGOLAYON, Anecito B. 8,258
BALDOZA, Leonardo Jr. D. 6,193
VERGARA, Dionesper P. 3,797

Result of the Local Election

2010-05-10T19:59:00.000-07:00

Result of the Local (Official : As proclaimed by the COMELEC)

Election (Bansalan Davao del Sur)

Mayor

Edwin G. Reyes - 13,654 votes
Peter Melchor J. Arches - 11,761 votes
Joshue Rodaje - 519votes

Vice Mayor

Arnel Gallardo - 13,390 votes
Virgilio Humol -9,214votes
Loreto Valdez -2,401 votes

SB MEMBERS

1. Armard Anthony Gallardo - 11,910 votes
2. Nestor Bonilla -11,002 votes
3. Quirina Sarte - 10,855 votes
4. Alfredo Guiterrez -10,080 votes
5.Fe Lao - 9,850 votes
6.Eduardo Telmo - 9,693 votes
7. Guillermo Potestas - 8,644 votes
8.Liza Abril - 8,640 votes
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9. Calit, Casiano - 8,374 votes
10. Mabanag, Mindanito - 7,837votes
11. Cortes, Joselindo - 6,588votes
12. Fuentes, Solomon Sr. 6,003 votes
13. Granada, Sunday - 5,801 votes
14. Gomez, Norberto - 5,767 votes
15. Minguito, Pedro - 5,269 votes
16. Noel, Joselito - 4,796 votes
17. Abagon, Nicolas - 4,643 votes
18. Deloy, Jethro - 4,564 votes
19. Sisneros, Estrellita 4,337 votes
20. Gohol, Arnulfo - 3,855 votes
21. Catalan, Simplicio - 3,818 votes
22. Segura, Rafael - 3,709 votes
23. Laquihon, Eleanor - 3,304 votes
24. Jugadora, Nemesio - 2,065 votes
25. Gonzales, Juan Jr. - 1,708 votes
26. Mendoza, Juan - 873 votes

Candidates for May 10, 2010 Election (Bansalan, Davao del Sur)

2010-03-28T03:50:00.000-07:00

NATIONALIST PEOPLES COALITION

For Mayor ........................... Peter Melchor Arches
For Vice Mayor....................... Loreto Valdez
For SB Member........................ Nick Abagon
For SB Member........................ Lindo Cortez
For SB Member.........................Jethro Deloy
For SB Member........................ Neneng Gomez
For SB Member........................ Ellen Laquihon
For SB Member.........................Peter Minguito
For SB Member.........................Padong Noel
For SB Member.........................Payle Sigura

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LAKAS CMD

For Mayor ........................... Josue M. Rodaje
For Vice Mayor....................... Arnel "Atong" Gallardo
For SB Member........................ Simplicio "Plicing" Catalan
For SB Member........................ Solomon "Mon" Fuentes
For SB Member.........................Armand "Gogoy" Gallardo
For SB Member........................ Jun Gonzales
For SB Member........................ Al Gutierrez
For SB Member.........................Sunday "Wilan" Granada
For SB Member.........................Nemesio "Mesio" Jugadora
For SB Member.........................Estrelia "Ester" Sisneros

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NATIONALISTA PARTY

For Mayor ........................... Edwin Reyes
For Vice Mayor....................... Virgilio C. Humol
For SB Member........................ Mindanito G. Mabanag
For SB Member........................ Liza R. Abril
For SB Member.........................Fe S. Lao
For SB Member........................ Casiano C. Calit
For SB Member........................ Guillermo Potestas
For SB Member.........................Quirina T. Sarte
For SB Member.........................Nestor M. Bonilla
For SB Member.........................Eduardo N. Telmo

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LIBERAL PARTY

For SB Member.........................Juan Mendoza

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PMP

For SB Member.........................Arnulfo Gohol

King cobra attacks alarm townsfolk, execs

2010-03-01T07:29:00.000-08:00

(By : Orlando B. Dinoy, originally posted @ Philippine Daily Inquirer 22:04:00 02/27/2010)
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BANSALAN, DAVAO DEL SUR, Philippines—King cobras, which are not endemic in this town, have suddenly appeared and even started attacking humans, officials said.

Since the start of the month, two farmers have already been killed by king cobras while a baby was spared because his parents were quick enough to parry the attack.

Insp. Reyniel Raotraot, deputy chief of police, said the first victim was Alvin Ayuda, 28, a farmer in Barangay Tinungtongan.

Raotraot said Ayuda was cutting trees in his backyard with two friends on Feb. 1 when the reptile attacked and bit him.

Raotraot said Ayuda’s friend ran after the snake which also tried to strike him.

Ayuda reached home and told his family that he was bitten by a snake. He died shortly without medication.

Raotraot said the second victim was Raul Oguit, 32, of Barangay Managa here.

Relatives brought him to a hospital but he died on the way, he said.

On Feb. 20, Raotraot said a king cobra found its way into the house of a family here and was seen near a sleeping baby.

Raotraot said the baby’s father threw a rug at the snake to drive it away, but the snake wrestled with it. The baby’s parents struck the snake dead with a piece of wood.

On Tuesday, residents of Barangay Tinungtongan killed another king cobra.

On Thursday, residents of Barangay Sibayan here also killed a king cobra, which was trying to cross the highway to their homes.

All the snakes were suspected to be mature because their lengths exceeded two meters, Raotraot said.

Raotraot said the snake attacks were alarming.

Chief Insp. Solomon de Castilla, Bansalan police chief, said police have launched an information drive on how to avoid being bitten by snakes.

“Presence of mind is important and a person must have courage to kill them if he can’t avoid being bitten,” he said.

Raotraot said police also advised residents to clean their backyards to remove possible hiding places of snakes.

Government veterinarian Fermin Verallo said king cobras are not endemic to the province.

He said king cobras were only previously seen in Davao Oriental and their entry here could be due to the intense heat brought about by El Niño.

Verallo also said there are no available anti-venoms in the province and that victims have to be brought to Davao City to receive medication.

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Sinulog Festival Sa Bansalan 2010

2010-01-15T16:25:00.000-08:00

January 2010 is the 3rd year since the Hon. Mayor Edwin G. Reyes declared Sinulog Festival in Bansalan. Novena prayers at the Municipal Hall lobby were celebrated every afternoon for the past successive nine days. Yesterday, January 15, 2010, the festivity was started with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist , followed by a street dancing in honor to the Sto. Niño and finally highlighted with the sinulog dance contest at the municipal compound. Employees of the Local Government Units were divided into six groups, and they were all exited to join the contest. They have exerted efforts for their regular practice. It is not for the sake of prize, one of the employees cited, but it's more on praising and thanking Sr. Sto. Niño, for protecting Bansalan and giving its people abundant blessings. Despite the tragic fire incident last December 27, 2009, Bansaleños are still united in praising the Infant Jesus.

Suspect in fire still unidentified

2010-01-02T14:49:00.000-08:00

Originally posted @ http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/suspect-fire-still-unidentified
by : (Orlando B. Dinoy)

POLICEMEN are trying to identify the man who threw a lighted cigarette butt that caused the fire, which razed 112 stalls in the new public market building of Bansalan, Davao del Sur.
The man was seen throwing a cigarette butt beside Stall Number 24, one of more than 20 stalls selling firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials just outside the public market.
Bashir Gasanara, one of the firecracker vendors, said he even heard a child call the attention of the man for dropping the lighted cigarette butt.
Not one stall owner was able to save any of their commodities because the fire quickly spread amid explosions from hundreds of firecrackers, police said.
The stall owners are blaming Mayor Edwin Reyes for allowing the sale of firecrackers within the public market premises.
Bansalan has a firecracker ban crafted in 2005.
Bansalan police Chief Solomon de Castilla said they are still trying to look into the possibility that the suspect intentionally started the fire.
Municipal fire office Senior Inspector Gil Andres admitted they did not foresee such disaster. The firecracker stalls were set up outside the market since December 21.
Vendors claimed it took the firemen almost 30 minutes before they started putting off the fire. It was learned that the fire truck was used to deliver water to a slaughterhouse just before the fire broke out.
The fire station is just around 200 meters from the market.
People are also blaming the Bansalan Water District because the fire hydrants near the market did not have water for the fire department to use.
Reyes said he has allowed the vendors to set up temporary stalls around the burned market so that they can continue with their trade.
The vendors said they have already lost all their capital in the fire.
A firecracker trader, Abel Macabuat, admitted that the mayor at first refused to allow them to set up stalls in front of the market.
"Nihangyo mi ka mayor. Unya, mao to, ingon siya sa una 'di gyud ko mosugot ana. So karon, pagbigyan ta mo basta bantayan gyud ninyo (We asked the mayor if we could set up stalls there. At first he refused but was later convinced to do so. He told us that he is allowing us to sell there for as long as we keep close watch over our merchandise and customers)," Macabuat said.
It is believed that the local government was prevailed upon not to implement the firecracker ban so as not to antagonize vendors considering the coming elections.

Flame swallows Bansalan Public Market

2009-12-27T04:13:00.000-08:00

Just a moment ago, I became a witness of a fire incident that hits Bansalan Public Market at arount 5:55 in the afternoon. At first, I thought it was only a fireworks display, but as I went to the public market area, I noticed that the place was covered with flame. Eyewitnesses said that the fire accident started at the place where the firecrackers were displayed fronting the main building of the Bansalan Public Market. I immediately called up rescue units from the provincial headquarters. I also delivered breaking news to 94.3 DXDA Digos Charm Radio.

It so happened that the 91.1 khz Bansalan FM is on test broadcast, so I took the opportunity to deliver live report to the whole municipality of Bansalan. Minutes later fire volunteers from other municipalities in the province of Davao del Sur came to the scene.

Sad to note that on this 27th day of December 2009, the main building of Bansalan Davao del sur was turned into ashes. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the tragedy. The destruction covers the Bansalan Public Market Main Building fronting bus terminal, excluding the fish and meat section.

First Radio Station in Bansalan

2009-12-19T21:17:00.000-08:00

Tune in to the First and the only FM Radio Station in Bansalan @ 91.1 KHZ. Bansalan FM is now airing its test broadcast. Signal reaches to the the diferent places in Bansalan, Magsaysay and Matanao del Sur. This is indeed another landmark of development for Bansalan.

54th Parochial Fiesta Schedule of Activities

2009-12-01T23:49:00.000-08:00

Nov. 29 – 6:00 p.m. – Novena / Mass
Tema : “ Ang gugma ni Jesus ug Maria: Kalig-on sa atong pagpangandam sa
kaluwasan..”
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Nestor Lisondra, dcd
Sponsor: Pedro Arches Nat’l High School, Vocation Movement, ICCPA
Coordinators: Mr. Blademer Culnago, Mrs. Percy Albutra, Mr. Nonilon Niez.
Hermano y Hermana: GKK San Vicente Ferrer-Kinuskusan (Zone 2)
7:30 p.m. St. Therese School of Bansalan & Global System Institute of Technology Night

Nov. 30 – 5:00 p.m. Novena / Mass
Tema : “Ang gugma ni Jesus ug Maria: Paglaum sa BOKASYON..”
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Cristito M. Carmona, dcd
Sponsor: Bansalan East District

Coordinator: Dr. Virginia Masillones
Hermano y Hermana: GKK San Miguel – Marber (Zone 3)
7:30 p.m. Holy Cross of Bansalan College Night
Coordinator: S. Ma. Fe D. Gerodias, RVM

Dec. 1 – 5:00 p.m. Novena . Mass
Tema: “Ang Gugma ni Jesus ug Maria: Tuburan sa kabulahan..”
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Cornelio B. Toraja, dcd
Sponsor: Global System Institute of Technology & Bansalan Water District
Coordinators: Mr. Noel Guya & Mr. Paul Arches
Hermano y Hernama: GKK San Isidro Labrador – Dolo (Zone 5)
7:30 p.m. Bansalan East District & Pedro Arches National High School Night
Coordinators: Dr. Virginia P. Masillones & Mr. Blademer Culango

Dec. 2 – 5:00 p.m. Novena / Mass
Tema: “Ang gugma ni Jesus ug Maria: Makadasig sa pagpngalagad..”
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Consorcio Lopez, dcd
Sponsors: University of Mindanao Bansalan College & St., Therese School of Bansalan
Coordinators: Mr. Salvador Tagalog & Mrs. Farcolina Badilles
Hermano y Hermana: GKK San Isidro Labrador – Rizal (Zone 5)
7:30 p.m. Bansalan West District & Marber National High School Night
Coordinators: Mr. Julito N. Tamula and Mr. Rayke Buat

Dec. 3 – 5:00 p.m. Novena / Mass
Tema: “Ang gugma ni Jesus ug Maria: Naga-awhag sa pagpuyo sa mga Pulong sa Dios
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Jupiter Canoy
Sponsor: Marber National High School
Coordinator: Mr. Rayke Buat
Hermano y Hermana: GKK San Vicente Ferrer – New Clarin (Zone 7)
7:30 p.m. Nazareth High School Night
Coordinator: Mrs. Albertita Ma. N. Garrido

Dec. 4 – 5:00 p.m. Novena / Mass
Tema: “Ang Gugma ni Jesus ug Maria: Makapauswag sa atong pagsalig sa kalooy sa Dios
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Leopoldo Omblero, dcd
Sponsor: Bansalan West District
Coordinator: Mr. Julito N. Tamula
Hermano y Hermano: GKK San Nicolas Centro Mabuhay (Zone 8)
7:30 p.m. Bansalan Cooperative Society & KSIT Night
Coordinator: Mrs. Socorro vanonigo & Mr. Bernard Gardoque

Dec. 5 – 5:00 p.m. Novena / Mass
Tema: “Ang gugma ni Jesus ug Maria: Timaan sa diwa sa Gingharian sa Dios
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Richard Laquiohon, dcd
Sponsors: Nazareth High School & BAFAVENTRA Incorporated & BAFAVENTRA Multipurpose
Cooperative.
Coordinator: Mrs. Albertita Ma. N. Garrido, Mr. Modesto Jala
Hermano y Hermana: GKK Sacred Heart – Nebrada St., (Zone 13)
7:30 p.m. University of Mindanao Bansalan College & BAFAVENTRA Night
Coordinators: Mr. Salvador Tagalog & Mr. Modesto Jala

Dec. 6 – 6:00 p.m. Novena /Mass
Tema: “Ang gugma ni Jesus ug Maria: Kinabuhi sa MISYON
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Loreto Mesiona, dcd
Sponsor: Holy Cross of Bansalan College
Hermano y Hermana: GKK Sto. Niño Curvada (Zone 14)
7:30 p.m. Municipal Officials Night (LGU)
Coordinator: Hon. Mayor Edwin G. Reyes

Dec. 7 – 4:00 am – Procession of the Blessed Virgin Mary 5:00 am Novena / Mass
Tema: “Ang gugma ni Jesus ug Maria sa mga makasasala
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Joselyno P. Gallopin, dcd
Sponsor: Bansalan Cooperative Society
Coordinator: Mrs. Socorro CAnonigo
Hermano y Hermana: GKK ISKP Bagong Pilipino (Zone 15)

Dec. 8 – Feast Day
Tema: “Ang gugma ni Jesus sa Putling kasingkasing ni Maria
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Jose Sander Niez, dcd
Sponsor: CWL, PREX, Knights of Columbus, Marian, Divine Mercy, FLA, PSA, CCRM, Youth
Coordinator: Mrs. Angelina Delima, Mrs. Elizabeth catalan, Mrs. Juanita Andal, Mrs. Susan Rodriguez,
Mr. Jirapher Cagas.

6:00 a.m. – Second Mass
Celebrant: Rev. Fr. Leonardo D. Sayson Jr. dcd
Preacher: Rev. Fr. Jose Sander Niez, dcd
Sponsors: Catechists, Urban GKK’s, Zone 13, Zone 14, Zone 15
Coordinators: Mr. Danny Mabanag, Mrs. Carmela Culanag, Mrs. Socorro Nebrada, Mrs. Ninfa Labajo, Mrs.
Nenita Tinampay

8:00 a.m. – Pontifical Concelebrated Mass
Celebrant: Most Rev. Guillermo V. Afable, DD
Sponsors: All Rural GKK’s
Coordinators: Mr. Norberto Gomez

10:00 a.m. – Baptism

Field Demonstration @ Rizal Park will follow

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Rondalla sa Bansalan

2009-11-02T18:03:00.000-08:00

Bansalan is known for its talented people gifted with the capacity to play musical instruments. In the recently conducted Cooperative Month Culmination Program at the Provicial Capitol Gymnasium last October 30, 2009,selected cooperative members had shown how adept they are in rondalla . A rondalla is an ensemble of plectrum instruments, stringed instruments played with a plectrum or pick. It originated in Spain, but became one of the traditional forms of Philippine folk music after its introduction to the islands in the 19th century.

The Group was headed by Mr. Espiritu Gonzales and Mr. Loremer Carillo, both members of the Marber Irrigators Farmers Cooperative (MIFCO). It was supposed to be a contest among the municipalities in the Province of Davao del Sur, but other municipalities were not able to complete the minimum number of players. Besides, they were hesitant to compete knowing the fact that Rondalla players from Bansalan would garner the award because the latter won four successive Rondalla Competitions a couple of years ago @ Victoria Plaza Mall , Bajada Davao City.

The group will participate in the Regional level contest this coming December 04, 2009 at CAP auditorium on the occasion of the 6th Tapok –Tapok Sa Koop ug Barkadahan sa Pasko . They will compete with musicians from Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and Davao City.

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CCTV Camera On Board

2009-10-17T14:41:00.000-07:00

Our town continues to go with the trend of modern technology by way of installing CCTV Cameras at the Municipal Hall, Public Market as well as in the public terminal. Bansalan is one of the few municipalities and cities in the Philippines which had maximized the benefits of these gadgets. CCTV is often used for surveillance in areas that may need monitoring such as banks, casinos, airports, military installations, and convenience stores.

The present administration of Mayor Edwin Reyes had realized the importance of public security. It can be recalled that last June 15, 2007 , Weena Bus was bombed in Bansalan and yet the perpetuators has not been exactly identified until to date. Bansalan Police Chief Ispector Solomon de Castilla is also hopeful that with the presence of these cameras, crimes in public places will be minized if not totally stopped.

Bansalan Public Market is now facing another stage of progress. Lately, with the leadership of Mr. Eric Pabingwit the Economic Enterprise Manager, Bansalan was declared by the Department of Trade and Industy as the Best Pamilihan ng Bayan. This is already the 3rd time since Bansalan garnered such award thus calling our public market as the Grand Slam winner for this search. So to speak, the installation of these CCTV cameras will not only upgrade our public market's image, but more importantly bring securities to the business stall owners and customers.

Bansalan Central Warehouse

2009-10-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

>>>Photo courtesy of www.paololim.com>>>>>

Central Warehouse Club Bansalan Branch was formally opened for business last 5 October 2009. This is the first Mall in Bansalan that creates business and employment opportunities not only to our townfolks but also to other local and foreign investors. With this venture, Bansalan's local economy is expected to boom.

The Management of the Central Warehouse Club are inviting interested business entities to display their products and services. Vacant spaces are subject for lease and rent aggreement ranging from P4,000.00 to Php 6,000 per month.

Central Warehouse Club Bansalan Branch is located at Ramon delos Cientos St. , along National Highway , near Bansalan Shell Station.

BANSALAN CELEBRATES ITS 57th ANNIVERSARY ( By Henrylito D. Tacio)

2009-09-18T16:53:00.000-07:00

Fifty-seven years after it was separated from Digos as a town in itself, Bansalan is now a first-class municipality. This was what the banners had been proclaiming during the town’s 57th anniversary.

“Our hard work has finally paid off,” said Mayor Edwin G. Reyes in an interview. A businessman before he became the town’s head, he has been dreaming of making Bansalan as one of Davao de Sur’s business centers and tourist destinations.

“With the audacity of courage, utmost perseverance and industry, we have carved the way from humble beginning to a progressive town,” said Mayor Reyes in his message during the town anniversary. “Today, our municipality is facing a brighter horizon.”

The one-week celebration kicked off in September 12 and culminated on the day Bansalan was declared as a town on itself, September 18. The celebration’s theme was: “Bansalan: Padayon sa Pinasahing Pag-uswag.”

The town was used to be a barangay of Santa Cruz. When Digos became a town, Bansalan -- named after the datu chieftain – was one of those areas included. Then in 1952, Bansalan was separated from Digos.

Several programs and activities were prepared during the week-long celebration. However, the most anticipated was the street dancing or more popularly known as Bansaulog (a combination of the town’s name, Bansalan, and saulog, the Visayan term for celebration).

Thousands of people – including foreigners – flocked to see the participants as they ramped, danced, shouted, sang, and performed in the town’s busy street. Despite the fact that the temperature was soaring, it did not deter the people to witness the 8 contingents (6 from elementary and 2 from high school) competing against each other.

“Bansaulog is truly unique,” said Mark Ryan Ortega, a photographer who has been documenting celebrations like this not only in Mindanao but in other parts of the country as well. “What I like about the street dancing here is that the contingents are homegrown. While the competition is not that intense compared to other street dancing contests I have covered, the participants have developed their skills and talents as they have to fight it out against their fellow Bansaleños.”

“I didn’t expect that people would clapped and cheered as each contingent performed before the arena,” observed Elsa N. Ablayon, a graduate from the University of the Philippines at Los Baños, who accompanied her daughter who was one of the performers of the street dancing.

The showdown was held at the ground of Bansalan Central Elementary School. Each year, more people are trooping to the place to see the contingents to vie for the top prize. This year, the first place in the elementary division went to New Clarin Elementary School, whose performance left the audience in awe.

The Bansalan Central Elementary School snatched the second prize for its unique choreography, including the appearance of the “black bug” boys, which made the spectators to laugh and clap their hands.

Villa-Doneza Central Elementary School settled for the third prize.

In the high school division, the high school department of Holy Cross College of Bansalan took the first prize. Pedro Arches National High School of Managa got the second prize. Nazareth High School did not participate in the competition while Marber High School did an exhibition performance as it was already a grand slam winner in 2008.

On the day of the town’s anniversary, seven distinguished individuals were conferred the coveted Outstanding Bansaleño Award. Mayor Reyes himself conferred to the awardees during the anniversary program held at the ABC Gym.

The debonair lawyer, Atty. Israelito P. Torreon, led the awardees. He was cited for being the youngest president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines in Davao del Sur and for being the coach of the debating club of the Law School of Ateneo de Davao University, where he also teaches law.

The ever-youthful physician, Dr. Teofredo T. Esguerra, was named for being the team’s doctor of the climbers who did the historic Mount Everest expedition. While there, he helped several foreign climbers – and even saved the life of an Indonesian trekker. Dr. Esguerra is Southeast Asia’s only flight surgeon who’s an expert on wilderness emergency medical services.

Benjamin Lao, the third recipient, is a consistent winner. In 2008, the Department of Agriculture named him as one of the Gawad Saka awardees. Early this year, he received a Presidential Citation for microenterprise. And this month, he was named as the Region XI’s winner of One Town, One Product (OTOP) for the product he is promoting – the coco sugar and coco honey from coconut.

Two women awardees – Leila Rispens-Noel and Evelyn Bautista-Laguidao – are now both living in another country (Hong Kong and United States, respectively). In behalf of Rispens-Noel, her son Richard, received the award. On the other hand, Bautista-Laguidao was represented by Mrs. Rola Andal, herself an Outstanding Bansaleño awardee in the past.

Lispens-Noel was honored for being one of the most-sought speakers on microenterprise, overseas contract workers remittances, and women in development and for bringing together the former residents of Bansalan through the Association of Bansaleños Worldwide (ABW).

Bautista-Laguidao was given recognition for her work as a staff of the World Bank based in Washington, D.C. in bringing changes in the lives of the poor thereby uplifting the standards of living. She is also known for her charitable works not only in Bansalan but in other communities as well.

Two more doctors were cited for their community service in conducting medical and dental services: Dr. Sylvia Pesguerra-Bragat and Dr. Deogracias Chatto Lu, respectively. Both supported government’s as well as non-government organization’s programs.

Bansalan is the hometown of broadcast journalist Jay Sonza, bonsai expert Serapion Metilla, international singer Jojo Adlawan, national artist Salinta Monon, and TOYM recipient Warlito A. Laquihon. American Harold Ray Watson, a Ramon Magsaysay winner for peace and international understanding, used to work at the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center, which is located in Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur

57th Town Anniversary Pictures

2009-09-17T02:57:00.001-07:00

Search for Little Miss Tourism of Bansalan

2009-09-14T17:47:00.000-07:00

courtesy of http://bansalanwow.weebly.com/little-miss-tourism---bansalan.html

The Search Little Miss Tourism & Hiphop Dance Contest will be done on September 15, 2009, 6:00PM at ABC Gymn. For details visit www.paololim.com

BANSALAN HONORS FIVE DISTINGUISHED INDIVIDUALS (By Henrylito D. Tacio

2009-09-12T15:26:00.000-07:00

Five individuals, including the flight surgeon who’s an expert on emergency medical services, will be recognized during the 57th founding anniversary of Bansalan, Davao del Sur, on September 18 for “bringing honor to the town.”

Mayor Edwin G. Reyes will bestow the coveted Outstanding Bansaleño Award to Dr. Teofredo T. Esguerra, Atty. Israelito P. Torreon, Benjamin R. Lao, Leila Noel-Rispens, and Evelyn B. Laguidao. The five people are chosen for their exemplary contribution and for excelling in their chosen professions.

Dr. Esguerra is cited “for part of the Filipino team who scaled the world’s highest peak, Nepal’s Mount Everest” in 2006 as the team’s lone physician. He stayed for the most part at the base camp, which was 18,000 feet above sea level.

“We stayed for 3 months around the Himalayan ranges to acclimatize our bodies to high altitude,” he recalls. “We climbed lower peaks to train and adapt to the environment where we were in. Nobody just climbs the highest peaks there without acclimatizing.”

Dr. Esguerra became the most popular figure in the mountain when he rendered medical treatment for free (where charges were as much as $75 for checkups and treatments). “Along the way, I ended up a doctor to everyone – Tibetans, Spanish, Italian, South African, Israeli, Belgian, Indonesian, Singaporean, Malaysian, American, French, German, Swiss, everyone!”

When he turned 36, Atty. Torreon was elected president of the Davao del Sur chapter of Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP). As such, he was cited “for being elected the youngest president ever.”

“I consider my age as an asset because youthfulness exemplifies new approaches, ideas and/or viewpoints to certain problems or situations which my fellow lawyers readily accept,” Atty. Torreon pointed out.

A law professor at the Ateneo de Davao University, he founded the Ateneo Forensic, the university’s law debating club. Last June, the team became champion in the first International Humanitarian Law Debate held at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. Likewise, the team emerged winner in the ABS CBN News Channel Square Off Debates.

Lao is recognized “for being chosen as the Gawad Saka 2008 national awardee for coconut farming by the Department of Agriculture.” He has proven that a barren land can be turned into productive farm.

His farm is located in Eman, Davao del Sur. Aside from coconut, the Lao Integrated Farm is also teeming with various fruits like lanzones (more than a thousand trees), durian (700 trees), mangosteen, and rambutan. “I bought them one at a time from my salary as a government employee,” he said.

In his farm, you won’t see his farm workers using chemical pesticides. “I had a tragic experience with chemical pesticides when I was still a teenager while cultivating rice in our farm located at the neighboring barangay,” he revealed.

To people who have been to his farm, they have described it as a haven. You don’t see only livestock and crops but ornamentals as well. “It’s nice to see beautiful flowers underneath the trees,” Lao explained. “Also, the flowers serve as breeding areas for beneficial insects like spiders and dragonflies.”

Rispens-Noel is married a Dutch national, Willem Rispens. She used to live in the Netherlands but recently moved to Hong Kong. She is cited “for leading the former residents of Bansalan now living abroad into a virtual community through the Association of Bansaleños Worldwide (ABW).”

Rispens-Noel is also one of the most sought speakers on such topics as migration, development, remittances, and capacity building of diaspora organizations. She is also a good source of information on links between remittances and development.

When asked about her passion, she replied, “To serve the poor and enhance the development potentials of migration.”

Before she became Mrs. Laguidao, she was known as Evelyn Bautista. She grew up and studied in Bansalan. Later on, she migrated to the United States, where she now works at the World Bank headquarters.

Past recipients include broadcast journalist Jay Sonza, bonsai expert Serapion Metilla, international singer Jojo Adlawan, the late last Bagobo weaver Salinta Monon, and TOYM awardee Dr. Warlito A. Laquihon

Activities for the 57th Araw ng Bansalan

2009-09-06T23:47:00.000-07:00

57th Araw ng Bansalan
Bansalan, Davao del Sur
September 18, 2009

“BANSALAN: Padayon sa Pinasahing Pag-uswag”

September 12, 2009
•2nd “Lumba Ta Bai” Flat Track Challenge (BCES Athletic Ground, 7:00 AM)
•Off Road Challenge(Provincial Nursery, 10:00 AM)
•Religious Night(Municipal Lobby, 7:00 PM)
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September 13, 2009
•Motor Show with Live Band(Kiana’s Hidde Resto Bar, 8:00 AM)
•SK Disco Concert(ABC Gym, 7:00 PM)
•Kantahan sa Bansalan(Municipal Lobby, 7:00 PM)

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September 14, 2009
•Thanksgiving Mass(Municipal Lobby, 8:00 AM)
•Opening Program
•Job Fair(Municipal Ground, 9:00 AM)
•Medical Mission(ABC Gym, 9:00 AM)
•DSWD Night ( Sr. Citizens, Day Care Workers, PYA )Municipal Lobby, 7:00 PM

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September 15, 2009
•Micro Entrepreneur Fair (Municipal Ground, 8:00 AM)
•Agri Day (Rural Base Organizations Celebration ABC Gym, 8:00 AM)
•Little Miss Tourism & Hiphop Dance Contest (ABC Gym, 6:00 PM)

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September 16, 2009
•Drum and Lyre Competition (BCES Athletic Ground, 7:00 AM)
•Ride for Free ( Ferris Wheel & Caterpillar Rides )
Sponsored by Mayor Edwin G. Reyes, (Viacrusis Park, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
•Mr. & Miss. 4H (ABC Gym, 1:00 PM)
•Disco – Sponsored by Emperador Distillers, Inc.,
Assisted by Bansalan Tennis Club (ABC Gym, 7:00 PM)

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September 17, 2009
•Street Dancing Competition (Pob. 2-Pob.1, BCES Athletic Ground, 7:00 AM)
•Mc Bingo Social (ABC Gym, 1:00 PM)
•Kantahan sa Bansalan Grand Finals (ABC Gym, 7:00 PM)

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September 18, 2009
•Anniversary Parade (BCES Ground – Municipal Hall)
•Anniversary Program (ABC Gym, 9:00 AM)
•FUNDAY with MCDonalds (Municipal Lobby, 1:00 PM)
•Sky Diving (BCES Athletic Ground, 1:00 PM)
•Anniversary Disco – Sponsored by MMO,ABC Gym, 7:00 PM
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Bansalan mayor shuts down VM's rice mill

2009-07-23T19:24:00.000-07:00

originally posted @ http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/bansalan-mayor-shuts-down-vms-rice-mill

By Orlando Dinoy

visit http://now.abs-cbn.com/ondemand/premium/tvpregional/davao/20090723-tvpdavao-high.asx to view tv news
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THE 2010 election reached its fever pitch in Bansalan, Davao del Sur after two of its highest elected officials almost had a fistfight Thursday morning.
The altercation started when Mayor Edwin Reyes padlocked the rice mill of Vice Mayor Peter Melchor Arches at Sitio Curbada in Barangay Poblacion, Bansalan. The rice mill reportedly did not have a building permit.
Sun.Star Superbalita witnessed the exchange of heated words after Arches, formerly the town mayor, stopped employees of the business bureau from padlocking the rice mill.
Arches insisted he had been paying as much as P3 million in taxes to the Municipal Government.
"Kabalo ko politika ang hinungdan ani kay mobalik ko pagdagan og mayor unya di man na siya kadaog nako ba bisan og mag-eleksyon dayon kay daghan ang nasuko niya (I know this is politically motivated because I am seeking the mayoralty post in 2010. He knows he will not win if I run against him since a lot of people dislike him)," Arches claimed.
But Reyes said he ordered the shutting of Arches' rice mill "because (the vice mayor) abused his authority during his term as mayor."
Reyes accused Arhes of signing his own business permit as well as that of the Municipal Engineer's Office.
Arches admitted that his second rice mill does not have any building permit because the mayor's office and the business bureau have been delaying its release.
Reyes said he is against the construction of the rice mill "because it is within an agricultural land," a violation of the province's zoning ordinance. He said it was built when Arches was "still in power and used his influence."
"Naa man daghan diha, gani ang mga industrial katapad gyud sa mga balay pero ngano ako iya initan tungod ba kay nasirad-an na iyang ubang mga negosyo? (There is a lot of business establishments located in residential areas. Why does he have to pick on me? Is this because his other businesses have gone bankrupt?)," Arches said.
Reyes laughed off such accusation and said that he has filed a case of abuse of authority against his vice mayor before the Ombudsman Mindanao.
"Di man nako madali kay ginalangay-langay ang mga dokumento unya di sab lalim ang proseso. Harassment ni iyang gihimo sa ako, nawad-an og trabaho ang 200 nako ka mga tawo, operator ug uban pa, di na moboto niya (It is not my fault if the documents were not released. This is harassment, 200 of my employees lost their jobs. These people will not vote for him)," Arches countered.Tension was high as municipal employees forcibly padlocked the rice mill which could have ended in fistfight if municipal engineer Narciso Batingal did not intercede.
Arches agreed to closing down the rice mill.

5 rob gang members nabbed in Davao

2009-07-23T19:16:00.000-07:00

Originally published @
Philippine Daily Inquirer, by Orlando B. Dinoy, Inquirer Mindanao
July 23, 2009
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BANSALAN, DAVAO DEL Sur—Police said they scored big against robbery syndicates with the arrest late Monday of five gang members who had robbed a store owned by a Chinese-Filipino businessman.

Last week, Senior Supt. Ronald dela Rosa, officer-in-charge of the provincial police, acknowledged an increase in robbery cases in Davao del Sur.

Dela Rosa said what was alarming were reports that some men in uniform, including police officers, were involved.

Senior Insp. Nasruddin Tayuan, Bansalan police chief, identified the arrested suspects as Sanny Sarmiento, 25, and his brother Romnick, 18, both of Canuman, Zamboanga del Sur; Roldan Ven Dela Torres, 23, of Digos City; Jovel Dacolos, 30, of Cagayan De Oro City; and Rogelio Sabarte, 23, of Toril District, Davao City.

Tayuan said the suspects arrived at LCE General Merchandise on board a van and immediately declared a holdup.

When the store’s cashier resisted, one of the robbers choked her while the others emptied the cash register of some P13,000 in cash.

Tayuan said police set up road blocks and stopped the robbers in their getaway vehicle.

Dela Torres later said it was his group’s first time to operate in the province.

But he said the group had been operating in northern Mindanao, including Cagayan de Oro.

Bansalan kids get help( By Henrylito D. Tacio)

2009-06-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

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originally posted at http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/bansalan-kids-get-help

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AUTHOR'S Note: Although they are now living abroad, the former residents of Bansalan, Davao del Sur never forget where they came from. As a way of saying thanks, they are helping their townmates to uplift their standards of living. Sending some of those deserving pupils to school is just a part of the endeavors these people are supporting.)

They are very young as their ages range from seven to ten years old.

Despite their being innocent, they have their own hopes: one day, they will become what they want to be.

A few days before the opening of classes, they found themselves forming a queue near a barangay hall in Bansalan, Davao del Sur. Their purpose: to get their own school supplies, like notebooks, papers, pencil, and crayons, among others, school bag, and one set of school uniform (blouse and skirt for girls and pants and shirt for boys).

"The main purpose of providing these things is to help these pupils get better quality education as it will motivate them to finish school despite the current hardships and difficulties in life," said Anna Marie Noel.

"We want to provide these children the basic needs they need in school so that they will be inspired to follow their dreams and to continue dreaming even if life is very difficult these days," added Randy Albores.

Both Albores and Noel are officials of the Bansalan chapter of the Association of Bansaleños Worldwide (ABW); Albores is the chair while Noel is the secretary. Both personally handed the basic school needs to the scholars.

In a way, the children are ABW scholars. "We really don't have several criteria. In fact, it is not so much with the grades they earned during the past year," Noel explained.

"As long as they passed and got a grade of 80 and above. Most of them, however, are children of poor parents who have no reliable source of income and have a hard time meeting their basic needs like food. But they have one thing in common: they want to go to school to upgrade themselves and their families," he added.

"I am very happy that my apo is one of the beneficiaries," said the 63-year-old Flavia Gumba from Purok Banikanhon. "I have three grandchildren under my care since their mother is working. Their father had abandoned them, and I heard has another family. It is really too hard to send children to school these days, much more buying them their basic school needs like notebooks and papers."

"When I heard from one of my neighbors that ABW is helping some children in providing school needs, I immediately applied. I was not discouraged even if I knew that there were so many who applied. Even if only one of my grandchildren is given the opportunity, I am basically elated and happy," she added.

This year, the ABW is supporting 99 scholars. These are 54 pupils in Bansalan Central Elementary School, 20 in Dolo Elementary School, 15 in Mabuhay Elementary School, and 5 from Sibayan Elementary School. The remaining 5 elementary pupils are supported in collaboration with the barangay officials of Poblacion Uno. In addition, two female high school students are attending Nazareth High School (third year) and Marber High School (second year).

In return, these ABW scholars have to attend in all ABW activities and required to come to a designated office to meet the coordinator every month. More importantly, at the end of the year, they must pass in all their subjects. Parents of the scholars, on the other hand, must see to it that their children are going to school; also, they are urged to meet regularly once every three months.

ABW is a virtual community composed of current and former residents of Bansalan, Davao del Sur, who now live abroad and in other parts of the Philippines. Its mission is to advance the quality of life of the people in their former hometown.

"We envision a peaceful, progressive, prosperous Bansalan," explained Leila Rispens-Noel, the president of ABW International. "We will support initiatives that will make the town a caring and desirable community in which to live and work."

One of its strategies is providing educational assistance to deserving children and youth. According to the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB), one in six school-age children is being deprived of education and the number is rising steadily, indicating that the country is still far from its goal of providing education to all.

"To give back to my hometown" is the main reason why Rispens-Noel is supporting the cause. "I believe that there are many children who wanted to go to school but because of circumstances they simply could not do it. With a little support we give the children the chance to make their dreams come true. I also believe that lack of education is one of the root causes of poverty." (She used to live in the Netherlands but has moved to Hong Kong recently.)

Dr. Hilario "Bongging" Lapena has the same idea. "It's the pay forward principle," said the physician who now lives in Ajax, Canada. "As a student, I got a scholarship in high school and up to medical school. The scholarship was a huge load off the shoulders of my parents."

Tune Sonza-Inumerables, who is supporting the 15 scholars attending Mabuhay Elementary School, has another point of view. "I see in the scholars the hope that once upon a time made me inspired to strive hard in my studies," pointed out the former Mabuhay resident who now works in New York and the association's auditor. "I see in these children so much potential. By helping them, I want them to improve their lives in the future."

Writing songs from the heart (By: Henrylito Tacio, Originally posted @ http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/writing-songs-heart)

2009-06-11T17:35:00.000-07:00

LAST year, Randy A. Albores emerged triumphant when his composition was declared as the winner in a choral contest initiated by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). This was in Cagayan de Oro City during the 18th anniversary celebration of the government agency.

Memorable part of the song goes this way: "Tapat sa sinumpaang tungkulin sa 'ting bayan / Handang maglingkod sa pamahalaan at lipunan / Init, ulan, malayo ma'ng pupuntahan / Di bale na't bayan ay mapagsilbihan."

Eventually, the song was declared by the CDA board of administrators as the National CDA Hymn in the meantime that the national competition has yet to be conducted in March 2010.

"I was totally surprised when my name was called," the 33-year-old Albores, who hails from Bansalan, Davao del Sur. "I am not a pro." It was his boss, Rosalinda E. Villaseca, who encouraged him to join.

The contest was exclusively for CDA employees from Mindanao, and there were four entries. "Some entries were written and composed by professional musicians," he said. For instance, the Cagayan de Oro piece, which was chosen second place, was written by the regional director. "I am just a simple man who wrote the song straight from my heart."

During the first Philippine Cooperative Teamshop held at Lagao Gym in General Santos City, the administrators presented him an Award of Commendation for composing the song. But before the awarding, the CDA Davao Choir (trained by Violeta Granador) was asked to sing the song before the 2,000 delegates from all over the country. "After the awarding, I went backstage and I cried," he shared. "I remembered my son."

In a way, it was his son who inspired him to write the lyrics and compose the song. "I always consider that it was me and my song together who made the song," he admitted. "That's why I usually called it 'our song.'"

His son's name is Jessie Ranz (JR for short). He is the eldest of the three siblings, and he has been diagnosed with global developmental delay. "He is seven years old now, but he still cannot do anything," he informed. "He can't talk or walk."

The chorus of the song states, "Taglay nitong katangian ay pag-asa/Kooperatiba'y buong pusong paglingkuran/Para sa kaunlaran ng buong bayan."

Albores claimed, "My song is a message of hope. For my son, I am hopeful that God will give him a normal health someday."

While doing the tune of the song, he was reminded of his favorite singer Eric Clapton, who composed "Tears in Heaven." "He dedicated the song to his son who fell from a 53rd-story window in his mother's friend's New York City condominium. I always thought of my son who has been struggling for the past seven years. My song was coupled with tears but full of hope. My guitar and my keyboards were witnesses of my sentiments."

In writing the lyrics, however, he was inspired by the accomplishments of his officemates, particularly those who are assigned in the far-flung areas. "Oftentimes, most of us are almost out of traveling allowance and other logistics, but these don't deter us to continue serving the cooperatives," he said.

He wrote the song during the second week of January in 2007. "I was already bored as a government employee for 10 years," he said. "It was if there were no challenges anymore. As I wrote the song I was thinking, 'Would I be able to live up with my words?' The song expresses what supposed to be the real attitude of government employees. Because of that song, my interest and my zeal to serve the people was restored."

Ranz, as friends called him, is the eldest of the three children of Julian and Myrna Albores (both dedicated government employees). He was a consistent honor pupil while attending the Rizal Elementary School in Rizal, Bansalan, Davao del Sur. He graduated high school with honors from the Holy Cross of Bansalan College.

Ranz never dreamed of becoming a government employee. In fact, he was aiming to become a priest. He finished his AB Philosophy at the St. Francis Xavier College Seminary in Catalunan Grande, Davao City with the Merit of Cum Laude. After that, he transferred to Lorenzo Mission Institute in Makati City and then studied theology at San Carlos Graduate School of Theology. But he went out in 1998 during his second year of theologate.

Today, he works as Cooperative Development Specialist II under the CDA. "I like the nature of my job because I always meet people and new friends as well," he said. "I think God placed me in seminary for a purpose -- to prepare me for greater responsibilities that lie ahead."

Three years after he went out from the seminary, he got married at the age of 25. "My wife's name is Cherish Sophia Dawa, an elementary school teacher," he said. "She is fondly called by her friends as Aubrey. We are blessed with three children."

His final words: "I just let God direct my way. As I grow older, my attitude towards life has also changed my idealism and youthful fantasies. During my adolescent years, I wanted to accomplish many things. But now that I am 33, I wanted to do things in its proper time and order. I will continue composing songs, not for myself alone but to bring message of hope to others."

Bakeshops in Bansalan

2009-05-23T03:55:00.000-07:00

For a small town like Bansalan, a dozen of bakeshops had invested here since the year 2007. Majority of these establishments are actually branches of the food chain companies in Mindanao like Panadero, Rose Bakeshop, Gretz Paul, Manolette, and Park and Go. Yet, the original bakers from Bansalan like Mabuhay Restaurant, Virvics, Snazzy, Sklyplaza, and the like are still continuing their bakery businesses. The bakery firm of the Leynes family had been diverted into new more profitable ventures like internet café and branching of their gas stations in the nearby municipalities. JK Salazar Bakeshop for example invites people from the nearly municipalities in view of its services in bank check exchange.

The result of this seemingly competitive environment brings a lot of advantages to the consumers. Breads are now being sold at lower prices, clean and conducive refreshment areas, lots of choices on recipe and a lot more. People are looking forward for the opening of Central Warehouse Club sometime in the 3rd quarter of 2009. To be sure, another bakeshop will be established in this new shopping center.

Some of these bakeshops are operating 24/7. The famous “pandesal” is still the best seller especially early in the morning. No doubt, these investors are bringing employment opportunities in our town. They also contribute to the local revenue collection and in other economic aspect. In one way or another, they make Bansalan more attractive to the eyes of some investors.

Why Cut the Trees?

2009-05-01T20:59:00.000-07:00

Why cut the trees? Are we not environment -friendly? Why remove the shades? These are the common queries of the residents in Bansalan upon seeing the joint action of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in coordination with the Local Government Unit of Bansalan in the on-going cutting of trees adjacent to the national Highway. The main intent is to clear the National Highway from any obstructions and any other related traffic interference. The ruling of the DPWH pointed out that there should be an allowance of clear area at least 30 meters from the center lane of the National Highway. This is to give way to a better shouldering area to prevent accidents and any other traffic related problems.

Trees have been cut down alongside of the National Highway from Curvada up to KM 77. Bansalan now is preparing its area to accomodate the long-planned four(4)lane concrete road. Said project will be implemented thru the present administration of the Hon. Edwin G. Reyes. Common folks have diverse reactions to this plan. Some would say, this four-lane project was conceptualized during the 70's but until now there was no action done. On the other hand, some would claim that the cutting of trees is the first step for the implementation of the project. It can't be denied that Bansalan's national highway is among the most destructed road in the province of Davao del Sur. Worst part of it is located in Barangay Dolo up to Marber National Highway.

Bansalan Barbeque Avenue

2009-04-23T06:13:00.001-07:00

Bansalan Barbeque Avenue was formally opened last Saturday , April 18, 2009. The project was financed by Pepsi Cola Philippines in coordination with the Local Government Unit of Bansalan Davao Davao del Sur. Pepsi Cola had invested P456,000.00 for the construction of the stalls and the LGU had allocated P250,000.00 for the walling of the foundation. This newest attraction in Bansalan is the first Pepsi Cola financed Barbeque Avenue in Mindanao.

Bansalan Barbeque Avenue is located alongside of Miral River Bridge, fronting Gulayan ng Bayan. Barbeque vendors who used to do business at the center of the public market were given clean and descent stalls in the new business site. Pepsi Cola will soon install a wide television screen to attract more customers. During the opening, hundreds of Bansaleños and visitors from the neighboring municipalities were excited to enjoy the taste of the so-called "barbeque sa Miral". The Honorable Mayor Edwin G. Reyes had graced the occasion together with the executives from Pepsi Cola Philippines.

The establishment of Bansalan Barbeque Avenue had upgraded the image of Bansalan's business and food industry. The good ambience captivates the attention of the customers to spend the night alongside of the the Miral River. Its economic impact will surely contribute to the development of Bansalan which was proclaimed by the Deparment of Finance as being upgraded from second class municipality to a First Class Municipality several months ago.

Palm Sunday..."Bendita sa Lukay"

2009-04-05T17:29:00.000-07:00

Devoted Catholics in Bansalan had joined the Palm Sunday Celebration yesterday, April 5, 2009. People were bringing palms and cococut leaves to be sprinkled and blessed with holy water as a sign of welcoming and accepting Jesus as the King and Messiah. In the Filipino culture, cathlolics used coconut leaves formed into small crosses as the most common shape to be blessed during Palm Sunday rite. These leaves are commonly placed in the altar and in the doors of the houses, offices and even in commercial establishments.

According to the Gospels, before entering Jerusalem, Jesus was staying at Bethany and Bethphage, and the Gospel of John adds that he had dinner with Lazarus, and his sisters Mary and Martha. While there, Jesus is described by the Synoptic Gospels as sending two unnamed disciples to the village over against them, in order to retrieve a donkey that had been tied up but never been ridden, and to say, if questioned, that the donkey was needed by the Lord but would be returned in a short period of time. Jesus then rode the donkey into Jerusalem, with the Synoptics adding that the disciples had first put their cloaks on it, so as to make it more comfortable. The Gospels go on to describe how Jesus rode into Jerusalem, and how the people there lay down their cloaks in front of him, and also lay down small branches of trees. The people are also described as singing part of Psalm 118 - ...Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father, David. ... (Psalms 118:25-26).

Rev Fr. Diomedes “Bobong” Templa , DCD, the parish priest of Immaculate Conception Parish Bansalan, had officiated the Sunday rite which started infront of the parish convent and was followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Bansaleños continued to pray for peace while waving their palms and coconut leaves sprinkled with holy water. Palm Sunday is also called “Bendita sa Lukay” . It is the Sunday wherein the gospel of the Passion of Christ is read by way of dramatizing the suffering, death and resurrection of our Lord.

Fire Hits Bansalan

2009-03-21T22:59:00.000-07:00

March is considered as the Fire Prevention Month. However, firefighters from Bansalan, Magsaysay, Digos and Matanao had joined forces in saving the whole Old Iglesia ni Cristo Compound from turning into ashes on the morning of March 21, 2009. Residents of Lily St. corner Rose St. of our beloved town Bansalan were shocked after seeing flames coming from the place where the old Iglesia ni Cristo church was built. At 9:00 in the morning of the same date, the civilian and Bureau of Fire Protection volunteers from our town were first rescuers in the scene.Later the fire rescue team from the neighboring towns came to penetrate the area. After a few minutes, the situation was placed in control of the authorities. The houses owned by Gloria Tolang, Domingo Corillo and Andresa Otero were totally turned into debris and ashes. Investigation of the cause of the said tragedy is still ongoing. Estimated damage reaches up to 2million pesos.

Bansalan welcomes Foreign and Local Investors.

2009-03-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

Central Warehouse club Inc. had recently acquired the property of Dra. Sherlina Manos-Hao located at Ramon de los Cientos St., National Highway Bansalan Davao del Sur. The company will invest in Bansalan by way of putting up a supermarket. This will eventually bring a positive impact in the local economy. It will create employment opportunities as well. The place was used to be a business center of the FACOMA; Rented by Davao Metro Shuttle for a couple of years and finally acquired by the Central Warehouse Club. A couple of weeks ago the CJF Construction INC. had started building the edifice.

It is evident that Bansalan is already opening its gateway for investors. Last November 2008, two big companies opened their ventures namely the MC Square and the Taiwanese Firm LCE. Just last week, a business firm from Kidapawan opened another store in Bansalan bearing trade name, Bansalan Tiles Center located at the National Highway fronting shell station . De Luna’ s Aluminun and Glass from Digos had also established their branch at the Poblacion Uno fronting the Immaculate Conception Parish Church. Motostar will also establish their display and service center at Sta. Cruz St. by next quarter of this year. The coming of these investors are positive signs that Bansalan will attain economic progress and development in the coming days.

The leadership of Mayor Edwin Reyes, being a businessman by profession, is significant in the advent of these investors. He’s the one inviting them to invest in Bansalan making our town be upgraded from purely agricultural to agro-industrial. It should be noted that Bansalan is recently proclaimed by the Department finance as first class municipality. It was upgraded from second class municipality to first class municipality after raising its income and revenue. Data from Economic Enterprise Management Office reveals that for January to March 2009 an amount of TWO MILLION was collected from the delinquent stall owners in the public market. For the past years, some of the occupants of the public stalls were not paying their rentals to the Local Government. However, the present administration’s political will had prompted them to abide with laws and orders. A couple of business firms were padlocked by the authorities in view of the delinquency.

The brighter economic future is not far from the reach of our people in Bansalan. We may continue to work hand in hand to achieve social and economic progress.

Official List of Candidates for DASURECO Board of Directors

2009-02-14T04:30:00.000-08:00

This coming February 15, 2009, consumers of the Davao del Sur Electric Cooperative, INC. (DASURECO)in Bansalan will officially vote for one member of Board of Director to represent our town in the non-stock cooperative. Below is the list of canditates
1. Carlos P. Torreon
2. Wilfredo Granada
3. Nemesio Jugadora
4. Gohol (former chief of police)
5. Jusay (former Dolo brgy. captain)

Clearing Operation

2009-02-06T11:46:00.000-08:00

The Local Government Unit of Bansalan Davao del Sur, under the Reyes administration, had pursued its order to demolish the building situated at the center of the public market a couple of days ago. It can be recalled that the occupants were already informed to vacate the place even during the previous administration of Mayor Arches. The building was already very old and dilapidated making it very hazardous to fire incident or to any natural and man made calamities. Besides, the old structure of the building was no longer presentable enough to be erected in the center of the town's economic zone.

Among the occupants of the building were the MD Drug , AMG Hardware, A1 Barbershop, La Cebuana Carenderia, Park N GO Bakeshoppe,Mabunga Store and others. There were oppositions coming from them in the past, but it was Reyes' strong political that made that made them vacate the place. They were not given relocation places, but instead, they were asked to look for new locations where they can continue doing business. Some of them had resumed their economic activity already.On the other hand, the barbecue stalls will be relocated to the riverside near the Gulayan ng Bayan. Construction of the same is already on-going.

The vacated place shall be utilized as open parking space for the general public. Common folks are just waiting for the next move of the LGU. There has been rumors that a public terminal shall be constructed in the area.

Suspected NPA rebels ambush cops in Davao del Sur, four killed

2009-02-03T00:07:00.000-08:00

originally posted @
abs-cbnNEWS.com | 02/02/2009 4:54 PM
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Alleged members of the New People's Army killed three policemen and a village watchman Monday in an ambush in Davao del Sur province.

The policemen were on the outskirts of the town of Bansalan town when they were attacked reportedly by a group of twenty armed men.

Killed were Bansalan's police chief Senior Inspector Emilex Mabalot, Police Officer 3 Vernie Luis Humol, PO3 Ruel Salces and barangay tanod Rudy Dela Paz. Senior Police Officer 4 Efren Suico meanwhile was wounded.

Reports said that the policemen came from Barangay Balagunon and were en route back to their station when ambushed.

Barangay Balagunon is reported to be an area where the NPA rebels operate.

Pursuit operations have been launched by Army’s 39th Infantry Batallion.

Monday's attack came a day after the NPA said the government had refused to negotiate for three other policemen held captive after a clash in Rizal province last month.

The NPA is the armed unit of the Communist Party of the Philippines, which has been waging a Maoist rebellion against government since 1969.

The group earlier warned of stepped up attacks against government targets. With reports from Michell Robin, ABS-CBN Southern Mindanao and Agence France-Presse

Sinulog 2009

2009-01-23T06:53:00.000-08:00

raw video posted in you tube

Alumni Homecoming Schedules

2008-12-29T21:41:00.000-08:00

DEC 27, 2008 - UNIVERSITY OF MINDANAO BANSALAN COLLEGE
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DEC 30, 2008 - HOLY CROSS OF BANSALAN COLLEGE
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DEC 30, 2008 - NAZARETH HIGH SCHOOL
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The Digital Works of Dr. Emmanuel Rabe

2008-12-19T12:05:00.000-08:00

click on the photolinks to view the recent digital captures of dehr

New Dasureco BOD elected thru “People Power”

2008-11-16T14:46:00.000-08:00

New Dasureco BOD elected thru “people power”
Written by Eldie S. Aguirre
Saturday, 15 November 2008
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originally posted at www.arcanemind.com
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More or less 20 thousand member/consumers of Davao del Sur Electric Cooperative (Dasureco) flocked to the main office in Barangay Cogon, this city on Saturday and elected new set of officers for the board of directors to man the cooperative.

Governor Douglas Cagas acted as presiding officer during the conduct of the election through “people power” outside the perimeter of Dasureco to unseat the existing board of directors who continuously hold their positions under an “expired” term of office.

The new set of officers is: Digos North – Mark Fernandez; Digos South – Leonardo Suario; Boy Mante – Malita/JAS; Margarito Geolina – Sta. Maria; Ludovico Abay-Abay – Kiblawan; Douglas Corpuz – Magsaysay; Flor Alupay – Bansalan; Danilo Dianga – Matanao; Corazon Calida – Hagonoy; Padok Miego – Padada; Jose Cambas – Sulop; and Melojean Paras – Malalag.

House Representative for the First District of Davao del Sur Marc Cagas sworn the newly elected directors into office before the mammoth crowd who joined the “people power.”

Jesus de la Victoria, Dasureco general manager allowed the newly inducted officers to the board room where an election of officers was conducted with the guidance Omar Mayo of the National Electrification Administration (NEA) legal division.

Leonardo Suario emerged as the new chairman and president of Dasureco board of directors.

Glenn Solana of Sta. Cruz town was not replaced since he is still serving his first term of office.

Suario said he would oppose any move to restructure the components of Dasureco personnel to avoid hampering the operation of the electric cooperative known to be one of the best in the country.

De la Victoria said he would abide with the decisions of the newly elected officers of the board being an ex-officio member.
“I welcome the decision of the majority of the member/consumers who wanted to change the composition of the board,” he said.

Mayo said the NEA will also heed on the decision of the majority of Dasureco members. “I am here to observe how the process of the elections. NEA will not intervene with what the members are doing.”

The board of directors under the leadership of Artemio Tajon has not been reached to comment on the election of officers to the Dasureco board of directors.

Tajon and other BODs maintained the other week they would not step down unless the case seeking for the nullity of the NEA Election Code of 1993 would not be resolved in court.

Regional Trial Court – Branch 18 Presiding Judge Marivic Daray issued a preliminary prohibitory injunction on year 2005 preventing Dasureco to hold an election before the main case would be resolved.

However, Governor Cagas insisted the regional trial court has no jurisdiction over the matter since NEA is a quasi-legislative and quasi-judicial body where cases could only be filed in a court higher than the RTC.

2008 ©

Bansalan Cooperative Day

2008-10-21T15:15:00.001-07:00

By virtue of PROCLAMATION NO. 493 by the President of the Republic of the Philippines, the month of October has been declared as the Cooperative Month. As we all know, Cooperative is a legal association of people uniting themselves together to attain common goals in both social and economic aspects of development. In the province of Davao del, the cooperative month celebration was launched last October 1, 2008 at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium , Matti Digos City with no less the Hon. Governor Douglas Ra. Cagas as the Guest Speaker.

In the different municipalities in the province, coop leaders, members and advocates have been doing activities to add color to the celebration. It is in this unified spirit that the Cooperative Movement in Bansalan will also celebrate the Bansalan Cooperative Day this coming October 30, 2008. . The whole day program will be held at the ABC Gym. In order to make the celebration more meaningful, a Holy Mass will be celebrated before the program proper. It is expected the all cooperative members in the locality will be joining the Coop Quiz Bee, Parlor Games and other events. The MBM Zonal Federation of Marketing Cooperatives had voluntarily donated One Head Cattle as the Major Prize for the quiz bee. Game mechanics shall be patterned after the well-known TV Show Pera o Bayong and Wowowee.

The Cooperative Day celebration will be spearheaded by the Local Government Unit of Bansalan in coordination the the Cooperative Development Authority, MBM Zofemco and the Municipal Cooperative Development Council. The program will start at a new time schedule known as THE COOP TIME. COOP TIME means starting and ending the activity as scheduled. Coop Time is the opposite of tardiness, it is the time to come early to talk about progress and development.

The 4 -day Dry Run of the One Way System

2008-10-15T21:55:00.000-07:00

Last October 11, 2008 (Saturday ) many motorists were surprised to see " DO NOT ENTER SIGNAGES" in some parts of the Public Market. Traffic aids and officers were instructing the motorists to follow the new system correctly. It was a new system for the great majority. People were surprised about the new set up. Upon conversation with the traffic officers , they said they are conducting a dry run of the proposed one way system in the public market. The dry run will be for the period of four(4)days.

As a concern citizen, I took the initiative of documenting the traffic flow hoping that the same can help in the implementation of the new system. As a matter of fact, I submitted the said document to the Chairman of the SB Committee on Transportation a couple of minutes before the start of the committee hearing yesterday. I cited matters like: (a) traffic flow is quite impressive with the new system (b) consider the income of the business in the public market as well as the collection of the Economic Enterprise Management Office; (c) consider the reactions and comments of the tricycle drivers and passengers; and other details.

Yesterday (October 15, 2008), motorists were also surprised after seeing that the one way system has been suspended. The dry run had garnered diversified feedbacks from the public. It had revealed both advantages and disadvantages. Among the many things that is obvious is the reality that there was no massive information about the dry run per se. People were not aware that the new system was just experimental. Consequently, the suspension of the dry run also happenned very quickly. Traffic officers removed some of the DO NOT ENTER signages. Other signboards were just turned sidewards and the motorists begun to get confused. Some bus drivers were not aware that the one way system has already been suspended. This phenomenon had almost brought me to an accident last night.

A while ago, at around 6:00 PM I was nearly nearly hit by a Weena Bus coming from Davao City going to Cotabato . I entered the public market following the way of Viacrusis St. (fronting petron) because the DO NOT ENTER SIGN was not already installed in the that place. When I reached the curve section adjacent to the bridge and Centeno building, I noticed the same thing,…the DO NOT ENTER SIGN was not there anymore. Seeing this, I drove straight to the usual lane going to the terminal, when suddenly an air-conditioned Weena Bus going to Kidapawan also occupied the same lane. The bus driver thought that the one way system is still effective. On the other hand, I contemplated that the one way system was suspended because the DO NOT ENTER SIGNAGE were already removed. I had no other choice except to give way to prevent further trouble. Bystanders can testify that I was riding a white multivan with my wife as my sole passenger.

I immediately, asked the weena conductors and dispatchers if they were informed of the changes. The answer was NO. To my mind, I cannot blame my co- motorists because we were not properly informed regarding the result of the DRY RUN. In my conversation with other motorists, they pointed out that they do not even know that the One Way System is still a Dry Run.

I don’t simply give comments; I proposed alternatives because I believe that we all wanted a peaceful and well-developed local economy. My wife and I had almost lost our innocents lives a while ago. With this phenomenon, I am proposing these alternatives to our town's elected officials:

a. The public must be well informed regarding the duration of the dry run. Simple fliers and streamers may be posted and displayed in the conspicuous places to bring about awareness to the public, rather than just simply putting “DO not Enter” warning devices which are written in bond paper and cartolina using pentel pen . The public must be properly informed by means of announcement, posting and other related means.

b. Traffic officers and personel must coordinate with the management of the passenger buses and other motorists regarding the effectivity of the dry run as well as the suspension of the one way system to prevent accident.

c. All traffic warning devices shall be completely removed if a particular area is already open for entrance and exit rather than just simply turning them aside which may often create confusion to the public.

d. Traffic warning devices shall be presentable because they are government properties. Some of our DO NOT ENTER SIGNAGES are just written on bond papers and cartolina using marker pens.

I guess, the problem here is about COMMUNICATION GAP among the policy makers, traffic officers and personel and the public. I do believe that all of us deserved the right to be properly informed so as to prevent accidents and chaos. We should not place the lives of our people at risks. Laws and rules are designed to create order in the community. However, if they are not properly implemented, the exact opposite might possibly happen.

Accident Prone Area

2008-10-13T03:01:00.000-07:00

Accidents and calamities may happen at any time, but they could be prevented if we anticipate their causes.

I had furnished the Barangay Council of Rizal, Bansalan Davao del Sur with a printed copy of my photo-documentation relevant to the safety of the motorists and commuters passing in the area near the Rizal Bridge. Several cases of accidents happened here in view of visibility problem. While trees are environmentally -friendly, yet, if it would cost the lives of many, then, what benefit can it bring to mankind?

Below is the list of my recommendations as frequent traveler and concern citizen:

1.trees should be pruned so that motorists coming from both north and south bounds can see each other;
2.bushes should be cut down to bring about better visibility;
3.“Accident Prone Area” signage should be placed in order to give warning to motorists.

While the design of the concreted road is not properly angled and the location of the bridge is “blind curve”, we can still make alternatives for safety purposes. Better visibility should be present by way of trimming down branches and cutting off the bushes.

The Cooperative Month Celebration

2008-10-03T14:55:00.000-07:00

By virtue of PROCLAMATION NO. 493, the month of October has been declared as COOPERATIVE month. Pursuant to this, the Province of Davao del Sur, thru the Provincial Cooperative Development Council, had iniated the conduct of the Opening Salvo of the Cooperative Month Celebration. Last October 1, 2008, cooperative leaders and supporters came as one family as they open the cooperative month with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Provincial Capitol Gymnanium, Matti, Digos City.

It couldn't be denied that majority of the participants came from the Municipality of Bansalan. Records of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) reveals that there are 35 active cooperatives in Bansalan. These socio-economic institutions had succesfully participated to the said affair with the support of the Local Government Unit of Bansalan, the Municipal Cooperative Development Council and the Cooperative Development Authority.

Series of activities had been done to include; coop motorcade, coop banner raising, socio - cultural contest and the like. Bansalan's participation to the recently opened Cooperative Month opening salvo is another manifestation that cooperativism is very much alive in our town. It can be recalled that during recent celebration of the 56th Araw ng Bansalan, the cooperatives had also succesfully participated to the conduct of Agri-Trade Fair featuring coconut by-products.

This month's celebration carried the theme ; Cooperatives: Breaking thru barriers and beyond. In a situation where economic crisis is prevalent, people should unite to fight against poverty thru cooperativism. Cooperatives has to hurdle these barriers by way of doing business that will answer the common needs of its members.
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Kialegnon Festival

2008-09-18T17:02:00.000-07:00

Magsaysay Davao del Sur is the nearest town next to Bansalan when it comes to geographical location. After the Bansaulog celebration of Bansalan, the Municipality of Magsaysay also will be celebrating the Kialegnon Festival. The festive event will be launched this September 24, 2008. Magsaysay, called by the locals as Kialeg, has been known for its inland resorts like the Encar, Kalapao and Kamonsilan.The Honorable Mayor Jess Lumanog together with town officials are hopeful that thru this festival, Magsaysay will be able to showcase the local products that will be about development in the local economy. Magsaysay is considered to be the rice granery of the province. The aromatic Magsaysay Rice (Magrice) is also grown and produce from Kialeg.

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BANSALAN CELEBRATES 56TH ANNIVESARY: "COLORFUL, LIVELY AND UNIQUE!" (By Henrylito D. Tacio )

2008-09-17T15:34:00.001-07:00

This year's 56th anniversary of Bansalan, Davao del Sur – called Bansaulog (from the words "Bansalan" and "saulog," the Visayan term for celebration) was colorful, more unique, lively, and weeklong.

"Unlike the past celebrations, we are celebrating our town anniversary this year for one week," said Edwin Reyes, the town mayor. "Before, we only commemorate the celebration on the town's anniversary."

"Bansalan, Padayon sa Pinasahi nga Pag-uswag" was the theme of the celebration. "Our town is fast developing but we have to move further to fully develop," said Reyes, the youngest mayor of the town ever and a businessman. "I am hoping that by 2010, we will have improved economically."

Bansalan used to be a barrio of the municipality of Santa Cruz. When Digos (now the province's capital) became a town itself, Bansalan was part of it. The town lies 22 kilometers west of Digos.

On June 6, 1952, Bansalan was separated from Digos and under Executive Order No. 506 became a town itself. (In 1957, Matan-ao was created out of the territory of Bansalan. Ten years later, Magsaysay followed suit.) The Bagobos were the town's aborigines.

But it was not until Apolonio Ilagan, a captain in the Philippine Constabulary, that the town celebrated its anniversary. On September 18, 1952, Ilagan assumed office the town's first mayor.

How did the town get its name? Richard Ortiz, writing for the municipal comprehensive plan, recounted: "Datu Mandu, the adventurous tribal chieftain whose exploits were the first to have been recorded in the local historical data, established along the banks of the Miral River a village that grew so rapidly during his time. His successor, Datu Tumanas, relocated the settlement of his people to the nearby carambulig (a wide patch of cogonal meadows, where cultivation of crops and domestication of animals were started).

"It was Datu Tumanas who named the place Dansalan, after valiant Datu Dansalan who ruled the tribe some decades past and whose valor and chivalry were legends that came to be passed by word-of-mouth through generations."

But how Dansalan became Bansalan is an interesting story in itself. When Americans came to resettlement area, they asked the natives what the name of the place. They replied, "Dansalan." Ortiz surmised: "The initial plosive consonant must have been misheard by the Caucasians for they used the term 'Bansalan,' and the name stuck from then on."

However, the Provincial Tourism Development Plan has a different version: "Bansalan got its name from the one simple farmer named Bansalan who one day dug the earth in search of potable water to quench his thirst. Fortunately, he dug a spring which didn't satisfy his thirst but also his other companions. Rain widened the spring and the constant erosion of soil led to its formation into a creek, and later into a river. Bansalan did not live long. His companions, who were recipients of Bansalan's labor named the river after him."

As part of this year's celebration, Bansalan celebrated the event with street dancing, called "Sayo tut dalan." "Street dancing here is much better than in Digos," said a spectator.

According to Geraldine Batal, the municipal tourism officer, the first winner in the high school level (Category B) was Marber National High School, a grand slam since it won the top prize for three consecutive years.

The three other contenders settled for runner-ups: Nazareth High School, second; Don Pedro Arches Memorial High School, third; and Holy Cross College of Bansalan; fourth.

In the elementary level (Category A), there were six contenders. The best among them was Bansalan Central Elementary School. The runners were the elementary schools of New Clarin, Dolo, Villa-Doneza, Marber, and Kinuskusan.

Part of its unique celebration was the launching of its "one barangay, one product." And the town has chosen coconut as its pride. "Coconut has several uses and we found out that we can make several products out of it," said Julian Albores, the municipal agricultural officer.

Sayototdalan (Sayaw sa Kadalanan)

2008-09-17T15:34:00.000-07:00

Bansalan Central Elementary School Team was proclaimed over all champion (Elementary Division) of the recently conducted Sayotatdalan (Sayaw sa kadalanan) held on September 17, 2008 on the occasion of the celebration of the 56th Town Anniversary. The group was trained the selected teachers from Bansalan Central Elementary School.

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Second Place (Elementary Division) = New Clarin Elementary School
Third Place (Elementary Division ) = Kinuskusan Elementary School

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High School Category

Grand Champion = Marber National High school
Second Place = Nazareth High School
Third Place = Managa National Highschool

Bansaulog 2008 Photo Gallery

2008-09-16T19:26:00.000-07:00

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First Cooperative Nite in Bansalan

2008-09-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

On the occasion of 56th Araw ng Bansalan week-long celebration, the cooperative sector has been given an important role to play. Aside from being the prime organization in the Agri- Trade Fair, the members of the 32 operating cooperatives in Bansalan had shown their talents and skills in singing , dancing, playing musical instrument to make the celebration festive and meaningful. The event was celebrated in the ABC gym tonight and had gathered around 300 participants coming from the different barangays. Indeed, cooperative is both social and economic venture that contributes progress and development in the community. Bansalan had remarkably gained honor from the other municipalities in the Province of Davao del Sur because of its strong cooperative movement. The Local Government of Bansalan had been implementing various programs and projects to the cooperatives thru the Municipal Agriculturist Office under the leadership of Mr. Julian L. Albores and the MBM ZOFEMCO under the guidance of Mr. Ronie Tomas . The cooperative nite was done thru combined effort of the Office of the Municipal Agricuturist, Municipal Cooperative Development Council and the Cooperative Development Authority
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56th Bansalan Town Anniversary Pictures (by roylorcs@yahoo.com)

2008-09-14T02:38:00.000-07:00

Bansaulog 2008

2008-09-09T05:21:00.000-07:00

Schedule of Activities of the week-long 56th Town Anniversary Celebration

September 12 (Friday) Opening of the the week-long 56th Town Anniversary Celebration
* Celebration of the Holy Eucharist @ Municipal Hall Lobby
* Blessing of the Viacrusis Park
September 13 (Saturday) * Enduro Challenge @ KM 78, Tubod Bansalan Davao del Sur
organized by the Exploriders Club thru the Leadership and
effort of Mr. Erbing Arriga, the club president.
September 14 (Sunday) * Mini Motorshow infront of Hall of Justice Building
organized by the Exploriders Club thru the Leadership and
effort of Mr. Erbing Arriga, the club president.
September 15 (Monday) * Opening of the Agri-Coop Trade Fair , Aisle of ABC GYMN
organized by LGU Bansalan Davao del Sur, thru the
Office of the Municipal Agriculturist thru the Leadership
of Mr. Julian L. Albores ; Municipal Cooperative Development
Council under the baton of Ms. Myrna Gonzales/
MBM ZOFEMCO under the guidance of the coop-federation
chairman,MR. Ronie Tomas
and the Technical Support of the Cooperative Development
Authority (CDA) thru the support of the assigned Cooperative
Development Specialist II in Bansalan, Mr. Randy A. Albores
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to be continued> >>>>>
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One Town One Product (OTOP)

2008-09-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

What is OTOP?

One Town One Product (OTOP) Philippines is a priority program of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to promote entrepreneurship and create jobs. Through OTOP, local chief executives of each city and municipality take the lead in identifying, developing and promoting a specific product or service, which has a competitive advantage.

OTOP Philippines supports micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to manufacture, offer and market distinctive products or services through the use of indigenous raw materials and local skills and talents.

Coconut: Bansalan's OTOP

Coconut has been identified as Bansalan's OTOP. Others tagged coconut as the "tree of life". Nearly all parts of the coconut palm are useful, and the palms have a comparatively high yield, up to 75 fruits per year; it therefore has significant economic value. The coconut provides a nutritious source of meat, juice, milk, and oil that has fed and nourished populations around the world for generations.

In support to the growing coconut industry in Bansalan, the Local Government Unit (LGU) had integrated an Agri-Trade Fair in the week-long 56th Town Anniversary celebration. The event which will be done this coming September 14-16, 2008 will be participated by the various exhibitors coming from the different business entities such as cooperatives, farmers associations, private farm owners and the like. Displays of coconut by- products will be situated in the booths along the side of the ABC Gym.

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BANSALAN TO SHOWCASE COCONUT PRODUCTS

By Henrylito D. Tacio

BANSALAN, Davao del Sur -- If you happen to come to Bansalan, Davao del Sur, this week, don't be surprised. The town is celebrating its 56th anniversary on September 18 (but celebration will start this coming Monday, September 15).

Part of its celebration is the launching of its "one barangay, one product." And the town has chosen coconut as its pride.

"Coconut has several uses and we found out that we can make several products out of it," said Julian Albores, the municipal agricultural officer. "Different cooperatives of the town will display their various coconut products. On the last day of celebration, we will honor those cooperatives which have done the best out of coconut."

Known as the "tree of life," the coconut is one of the most important agricultural crops of the Philippines. It yields timber; food; fermented and unfermented drink; alcohol; vinegar; thatching material; splints; strips and fiber for making baskets, mates, rope, hats, brushes, brooms, and other articles; fuel; caulking material; utensils for household use, such as cups, bowls, spoons, and the like; oil for food, cooking, illumination, for making soap, substitutes for butter and lard, ointments; and oil for cake for feeding domestic animals and for fertilizer. -- ***

Digos City Bombing

2008-09-02T00:33:00.000-07:00

News entry courtesy of www.arcanemind.com

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6 dead, 30 others wounded in another Digos bus bombing
Written by Eldie S. Aguirre
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Six people were killed while 30 others are brought to different hospitals here and in Davao City when a bomb exploded inside the Metro Shuttle Bus with body number 209 at about 2:45 p.m. on September 01 inside the New Satellite Terminal in Aplaya, Digos City.
The City Disaster Coordinating Council identified the fatalities as Marlon Duey, a resident of Barangay Basiawan, Sta. Maria, Davao del Sur; Virginia Flores, a resident of Tagum City, Davao del Norte; Fe Caduan, a resident of Talao, Sulop, Davao del Sur; Ana Marie Canon Burgas, 26, a resident of Aplaya, Digos City; and the 5-month pregnant Willa Trimocha, a resident of Padada, Davao del Sur.

One still unidentified male fatality is still inside the morgue of Davao del Sur Provincial Hospital in Digos City.

Digos City Mayor Arsenio Latasa said the incident is possibly linked to the previous bombing of another Metro Shuttle Bus unit at the same terminal on July 24.

“The culprits could be members of the Al-Khobar Extortion Ring known to be preying on bus firm operators in Southern Mindanao,” Latasa said.

Governor Douglas Cagas, the Regional Peace and Order Council in Southern Mindanao said they are looking for the same group that bombed another Metro Shuttle Bus on July 24, 2008 that killed 2 people and injured 32 others.

“Based on initial investigation, a woman could be behind the explosion. But we are still validating the reports,” Cagas said.

“We must be vigilant at all times. And we must reduce activities for the incoming celebrations to serve as preventive measures for possible terrorist activities in the city,” Cagas said.

The July 24 bombing of another Metro Shuttle Bus bound for Davao City is also a woman reported to embarked at Estrada Public Market – about 3 kilometers before reaching the New Satellite Terminal in Aplaya, Digos City where it exploded ten minutes after it was parked at its bay.

Senior Supt. Cesario Darantinao admitted elements of Digos police is conducting an intensive interrogation to a man who was acting suspiciously after the Metro Shuttle Bus with body number 209 exploded.

Fe Navidad, the city social welfare officer said 14 victims were brought to Digos Doctor’s Hospital; 16 at the Davao del Sur Provincial Hospital; 4 at Gonzales-Maranan Medical Clinic and Hospital; and 2 at Davao Medical Center in Davao City.

The ill-fated bus parked at the New Satellite Terminal from Davao City on its way to Malita, Davao del Sur – about 90 kilometers South of Digos City.

Reports said the bus was in full sitting capacity of 47 passengers when the explosion took place.

The blast shattered the roof of the bus and bomb shrapnel even bore holes at the terminal galvanized iron sheets.

Another Metro Shuttle Bus with body number 36 and plate number 642 parked at the left side of the ill-fated bus was also hit by shrapnel. No casualties were reported.

You Tube File : GSIT Intramurals

2008-08-25T07:54:00.000-07:00

Bro Alvin Barcelona @ HCBC

2008-08-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

August 23,2008 is a memorable day for the RVM Sisters, Faculty & Staff, Parents and students of Holy Cross of Bansalan College. Bro Alvin Barcelona aka "Kuya Alvin" together with the Himaya Band had performed a laudable concert talk. The preacher-musician had really touched the lives of the audience through his music and life sharing experience. "I was lost, but I didn't give up, I keep on trusting God , that is why I survive." Thoughts like these had made the audience very attentive not only to his performance but to God's Message as well.

For more information about the above-named artist, log on his http://www.alvinbarcelona.com/

Bansaulog 2008

2008-08-22T18:07:00.001-07:00

Activities for the 2008 Bansaulog will soon be posted here

Life After the Flood : From a Concern Citizen's Point of View

2008-08-14T04:44:00.001-07:00

Another Flood Hits Bansalan

2008-08-12T07:31:00.000-07:00

Another flood hits Bansalan last Sunday, August 10, 2008 at around 4:00 o'clock in the afternoon

Paolim Lim had captured the event on his youtube posting

http://ie.youtube.com/watch?v=DodSMDzy42I

Bansalan West District Online

2008-08-04T01:49:00.000-07:00

Education must maximize the benefits of Information and Communication Technology. This is the principle that inspires the management of the Bansalan West District thru the leadership of its District Supervisor, Mr. Julito N. Tamula, to apply for internet connection. The district now holds the record of being the first to have an internet connection among others.

Mr. Jose F. Cadungog, Jr, the Alternative Learning System (ALS) coordinator, is anticipating that Information and Communication Technology will be of great help to the implementation of the ALS. Thru the use of the internet, ALS can further provide a viable alternative to the existing formal education instruction. It encompasses both non-formal and informal sources of knowledge and skills.

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Bomb Explosion in Digos City (18 kilometers away from Bansalan)

2008-07-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

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Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:48am (Mla time) 07/25/2008

DIGOS CITY – A bomb believed set off by a group with terror links ripped through a bus parked in a terminal here, wounding 35 people.

Davao del Sur Gov. Douglas Cagas pointed an accusing finger at the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

But police and military authorities said they were more inclined to believe that the attack was the work of the al-Khobar extortion group, which has been linked to similar attacks in Central Mindanao.

Chief Insp. Anthony Padua, city police chief, said the Metro Shuttle bus with body No. 176, which came from Bansalan, Davao del Sur, was waiting for passengers at the terminal when the explosion occurred around 11:50 a.m.

Most of those injured were passengers and vendors, he said.

Twenty-three of the victims were rushed to the Davao del Sur provincial hospital while four other passengers, including P01 Andres Alfonso of Padada town, were brought to Davao City due to serious injuries.

The rest of the victims were being treated at private hospitals.

Marian Apurado, 32, the bus conductor, who was also wounded, said she was seated near the driver when the explosion occurred about four minutes after they arrived at the terminal.

She said the blast tore the left portion of the bus, seven seats from where she sat.

“I was combing my hair when it occurred,” she said.

Chief Supt. Andres Caro, Southern Mindanao police chief, described the bomb as powerful.

He said it was packed in a water PET bottle and was remotely detonated.

“It was an [improvised explosive device] placed in a mineral water PET bottle, which also contained nails. It was command-detonated,” he said.

Maj. Lyndon Paniza, commander of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion, said Army bomb experts helping in the investigation recovered fragments of a cellular phone.

But he said authorities, including post-blast investigators, were still trying to determine what the bomb’s explosive material was.

Caro also said they were thankful because despite the design of the bomb, which was meant to kill or inflict major damage, no one was killed.

Maj. Armand Rico, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command, earlier said there were three fatalities in the bombing, but he turned out to be wrong.

Rico on Wednesday announced the recovery of a bomb-rigged motorcycle in Ampatuan, Maguindanao. The bomb, he said, was intended for Davao City but the driver abandoned it when the motorcycle had flat tires.

He said terrorists have been trying to attack Davao City and other major urban centers but couldn’t get past security measures.

Carlito Lim, Davao Metro Shuttle assistant operation manager here, said police were correct in saying extortion was the motive for the attack.

He said shortly after the blast, officials of the bus firm received a threatening call.

“Look at what happened. You are stubborn,” Lim quoted the unidentified caller as saying.

Mayor Rey Uy of Tagum City in Davao del Norte, whose family owns the Metro Shuttle company, confirmed the al-Khobar gang has been pestering them.

“But we ignored them,” Uy said.

Source : Philippine Daily Inquirer. by: Orlando Dinoy and Eldie Aguirre with a report from Frinston Lim, Inquirer Mindanao

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Livelihood Program for Rebel Returnees

2008-07-14T08:47:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY, Philippines -- Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, who says he has friends in the New People's Army (NPA), has appealed to the rebels to spare the city from attacks, his aide said Thursday.
The NPA has stepped up its activities during the past weeks by staging attacks in Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur and Compostela Valley and in Surigao del Norte.
Duterte issued the appeal during talks with some left-leaning individuals last week according to his chief aide officer, Bong Go.
"The mayor asked leftist leaders if they could send a message to NPA leaders to spare the city from violence," Go told the Philippine Daily Inquirer, parent company of INQUIRER.net.
Go said Duterte also urged the NPA to release former army sergeant Jose Manero, the brother of pardoned priest killer Norberto Manero.
"He is still alive contrary to reports. Mayor Duterte appealed for his release based on humanitarian grounds," he said.
In Bansalan, Davao del Sur, Mayor Edwin Reyes offered to provide jobs and livelihood programs to NPA guerillas, who will go back to the folds of the law.
Reyes also asked the NPA rebels to leave the civilians alone.
He made the offer shortly after NPA rebels stormed the village of Managa here on Sunday and disarmed militiamen of their firearms.
The mayor said as a sign of sincerity, he has asked the army not to pursue the fleeing rebels.
"Our municipality could not employ all of them but we can recommend them for work in some businesses," he said.
Reyes said the government has many livelihood programs that the returning rebels could also avail of.
In the wake of the increasing NPA activities in Southern Mindanao, Senior Superintendent Cesario Darantinao, Davao del Sur police chief, said he placed the province's police force under a 24-hour red alert status.
Major Lyndon Paniza, commander of the Army's 39th Infantry Battalion (IB), said the NPA attacks were manifestations the rebels were becoming desperate and wanted to regain control of areas they lost to the government's anti-communist campaign.
"We should always be vigilant at this point in time. The rebels are just waiting for the right time to launch an attack," Darantinao agreed.
Davao del Sur Governor Douglas Cagas said he would start localized talks with the NPA.
Cagas, one of the co-founders of the 1980s anti-communist group Nagkahiusang Katawhan sa Davao del Sur (Nakasaka), said a dialogue with the rebels could be more effective than armed offensive.
"Let's have a talk, a dialogue. If there are basic differences, ideological, we can allow it to continue but then let's have peace," he said.
Davao del Norte officials also said a localized talk might be an effective way of reducing the NPA attacks in the said province.

Reports from Dennis Jay C. Santos, Orlando Dinoy, Eldie Aguirre and Frinston Lim, Inquirer Mindanao

Himno Bansaleño

2008-07-13T06:12:00.000-07:00

Uploading herewith the link of the Bansalan Official Town Hymn

Happy Birthday Mayor Edwin G. Reyes

2008-06-24T14:29:00.000-07:00

June 25, 2008 is the43rd birthday of our beloved town Mayor Edwin Granada-Reyes (EGR). As early as 1:00 AM , groups of Bansaleños have been serenading the birthday celebrant. People from different walks of life were there to sing one melody "Happy Birhtday Mayor". This is a kind of Histroric Celebration because this is also the first time that a town mayor in Bansalan was greeted with around 500 people during the serenade. The dawn celebration was done in the lobby of the municipal hall. You could hear the serene of the police patrol car and the fire truck as well, bringing awareness to the people that today is a day of celebration.

The celebrant had only one wish , that is, WORKING TOGETHER for a BETTER BANSALAN. He keeps on repeating the same message in his thanksgiving speech. "LET US PUT BANSALAN in the MAP!" Further, he gave his present to the employees of the Local Government Unit in Bansalan. The latter jumped into joy after hearing that they will be receiving ten (10) kilograms of rice. In a usual birthday celebration, we usually give to the celebrants . Here comes the difference...the celebrant is the one giving gifts coming from his own pocket.

To the Honorable EGR, Happy Birthday Mayor!

Mabuhay ang Bansalan.

Remembering the Souls of the Victims of the Weena Bus Bombing

2008-06-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

It's been a year already since the most tragic event in Bansalan happened. Last June 15, 2007 at about 5:45 in the afternoon, I became a witness of the deadliest event ever happened in my hometown. The folks used to call it "The Weena Bombing in Bansalan". I was the first rescuer in the scene. Unfortunately those 5 victims that i brought to the hospital didn't make it at all. May their souls rest in peace.

Recalling that day, I couldn't hold down my tears hearing the cries of the victims' family. After the Big Bang, people were shocked, there was a minute of silence. (I brought with me my digital camera and I took the opportunity of documenting the tragic event.)I was the first rescuer in the scene, although I was a little bit confused as to whether what to do next. I was trembling but was pacified and had garnered courage upon hearing the voice of a woman crying and calling me by name. It was Susan Villotes calling me, asking my help because her late husband Pepe was instantly killed. I carried the late Pepe and the four others. After that, some of the bystanders rescued the other victims. Rescue organizations, came to the scene. The members of the Kabalikat-Bansalan and other volunteers from the neighboring towns were there. The town ambulance came in late, forcing us to use the police vehicle and the firetruck to carry the victims to the hospital.

That day became part of my life-history already. It had made me courageous to help those who are in need especially during times of danger. It had made me strong and calm to respond to emergency situation. As long as I live, I will always be praying for the victims of that incident. Today, I am offering mass intentions for the victims' souls on the occasion of the first anniversary of the Weena Bus Bombing. May God welcome the souls of the faithful departed in His Kingdom.

Poverty is not a TOTAL HINDRANCE to success

2008-06-16T08:54:00.000-07:00

The Association of Bansaleños Worldwide (ABW) continues its mission in providing scholarship grants to the poor families in Bansalan.

Check this link for more update

http://www.bansalan.com/literacy/supplydistribtion08.htm

Flash Flood in Bansalan

2008-06-06T16:05:00.000-07:00

(UPDATE) 1 dead, 2 missing in Davao del Sur flashflood

By Joel Guinto, Orlando Dinoy
INQUIRER.net Mindanao Bureau

Posted date: June 06, 2008

MANILA/BANSALAN, Davao del Sur, Philippines -- One person drowned, two others including a child were reported missing, while 169 families were evacuated after a river overflowed in Bansalan town, Davao del Sur province, causing flash floods on Thursday, the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) said.

The fatality was identified as Victor Boyo, 30, a laborer at the town’s public market according to Inspector Emelix Mabalot, town police chief.

Mabalot said a woman and a child were also reported missing.

Heavy rains caused the Miral river to overflow and flood sitio (sub-village) Bugac and Poblacion 2 village, the NDCC said in a report on Friday

The evacuees were brought to the municipal gymnasium of Bansalan, the report said.

Mayor Edwin Reyes said about 500 families were affected when the flashflood hit Poblacion 2 around 5:30 p.m.

The flood, which also destroyed a wooden bridge, broke out amid fair weather in this town late Thursday afternoon, officials said Friday.

There was a report of a water spout but the occurrence remains unverified.

Baha sa Bansalan (Flood in Bansalan)

2008-06-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

At late afternoon yesterday (June 5, 2008), I became witness of the biggest flood in Miral History. Affected areas are those in the riverbank of Bugak, Cosmos St. Carnation St. The water reached also Villa Doneza and some parts of the public market.

I assisted the emergency rescue, I was the one who opened the ABC gym to accomodate the evacuees. The first to arrive in the area were group of elderly women, young mother with her new born; and group of children. My heart was moved with pity hearing their remarks that they have not saved their properties because all were taken by the flood.

The Local Government Unit of Bansalan headed by Hon. Mayor Edwin G. Reyes had declared State of Calamity the other day in view of the price of rice. Unfornately, the flood is another calamity. When I went back to the Gym last night, I saw the Mayor with some of the elected officials assisting the distribution of foods and clothes to the flood victim. Last year , Bansalan encountered the same calamity for a couple of times. But yesterday's flood was worst than before.

Tristan Khalil Singkala had uploaded amateur videos on the incident

ANG KAMAHAL SA BUGAS SA BANSALAN

2008-06-04T07:34:00.000-07:00

Arroyo, hoarders blamed for soaring rice prices

June 03, 2008 03:01:00

Mindanao Bureau

MANILA, Philippines—Hungry and frustrated, a man who lined up to buy government-subsidized rice at a "Bigasan ng Bayan" outlet in Bansalan town, Davao del Sur province, threw a stone at a streamer bearing the image of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

The unidentified man was among those who queued early Monday morning, most of them without breakfast, only to be told that the store would open at 2 p.m.

Some of the consumers tried to bring down the tarpaulin, which was displayed outside the store, before they trooped to the office of Mayor Edwin Reyes.

More and more people in Mindanao are opting to buy government-subsidized rice, which is sold at P18.50 a kilo, as the price of "polished" rice soars to levels beyond their reach – from P41 to P52.

The President has ordered an investigation into the soaring rice prices, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said Monday.

Earlier, Ms Arroyo's deputy spokesperson, Lorelei Fajardo, said the National Food Authority (NFA) would look into the alleged hoarding of the staple in Mindanao.

A Catholic bishop blamed not only traders, who hoard and resell cheap rice, but also government officials, who fail to stop the illegal practice, for the runaway prices of the grain.

Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez of Marbel, South Cotabato, said he had been receiving reports that some traders in Mindanao were re-bagging the cheap NFA rice and reselling it at a much higher price.

"We are producing rice, but why is it so expensive? Something is wrong. The reason is the greed of businessmen and the incompetence of some government people," Gutierrez said in a Radio Veritas interview.

He called hoarding and reselling rice at a higher price "satanic."

The prelate said he would urge the traders to return what they had "stolen" from the poor. If a trader accepts the condition, "then I will absolve him. I will give him communion," he said.

Traders point to millers

Gutierrez said the rice traders should open their warehouses not only to government inspectors, but also to bishops. The prelate said the bishops and priests could help in the distribution of rice.

Rice traders in Bansalan won't take the blame for the price increase. Instead, they point to rice millers, who allegedly refuse to process palay (unhusked rice) as they wait for prices to further increase.

This is also what is happening in Northern Mindanao.

A week before rice prices shot up to P50 a kilo in Mindanao, one of the biggest millers in Cagayan de Oro City, Bernal Milling, cut its output by half, pointing to lack of supply.

Virginia Cantones, an official of the United Market Vendors Association in Cogon Market and a small rice retailer, said she had been going around the city to look for other rice millers to complete her quota, but found many warehouses empty.

"One miller told me they were not processing palay, stocked in bags in their warehouse by the thousands, because their equipment broke down. That's just unbelievable," Cantones said in the vernacular.

Cantones said many millers were keeping their stocks as they await rice prices to further go up. Some farmers have also decided to keep their palay stocks.

"But who can blame the farmers? The price of fertilizer has gone up three times in less than a month. They will not be able to gain enough if they sell the palay now," she said.

The Grain Retailers Confederation-Cagayan de Oro, said a big chunk of the rice supply from Cotabato and Bukidnon was brought to Davao, where the selling price was higher than that in other parts of Mindanao.

In Davao, premium rice is bought from traders at P2,000 a sack while the selling price in Northern Mindanao ranges from P1,700 to P1,800 a sack.

As a result, many traders are forced to buy rice from suppliers based on the Davao selling price.

But it's a different case in Cotabato City, where a dealer (who asked not to be named) claimed that dealers in the nearby provinces of Shariff Kabunsuan and North Cotabato were buying rice at a higher price.

P50 per sack

"The dealers wait for the truck of the supplier from Lebak on the highway in North Cotabato. They would add P50 per sack to our original buying price so the supplier would cancel our deliveries," the dealer said.

It takes five to six hours to transport rice stocks by land from Lebak town in Sultan Kudarat province to Cotabato City.

"We compete with other dealers from other provinces who go directly to rice suppliers to ensure supply," the rice trader said.

"We used to just sit in our store and wait for the deliveries ... (but now) for us to have supplies we have to go there because others (traders) are going there," the dealer said.

He said this was one reason the price was continuing to rise.

At the Cotabato City Megamarket, the "darami" (rice that was spilled on the floor during transport) used to cost P10 a kilo. It now costs P25.

"Darami" is sold as swine feed before the price of rice started to go up. It is now out of stock.

"It has never been like this before. The government should act and should act quickly," Rizelma Anastacio, a mother of three, said.

In Agusan del Sur province, rice traders blamed their counterparts in Digos City for buying most of their rice stocks two weeks ago and reselling them at a much higher price late last week when their stocks started to run out.

Buy low, sell high

A rice trader in Tandag City in Surigao del Sur province also blamed the Davao and Cotabato-based traders for buying palay at up to P25 a kilo from farmers in neighboring San Miguel town, taking the last batch of the harvest last week.

Concepcion Atamosa, president of a rice traders' group at the Public Shopping Mall in San Francisco town in Agusan del Sur, said several rice traders from Digos bought their stocks at P1,600 a sack and resold them at P2,000 to P2,200 when their stocks were running low.

Atamosa acknowledged that the Digos traders bought 72 sacks of her stocks two weeks ago.

She said her group learned that it had been had when the Davao and Cotabato traders started to sell the group rice last week at P2,000 to P2,200 a sack after their local supply started to run out.

Amid the soaring prices, the NFA is still limiting the amount of its subsidized rice that consumers can buy in public markets, drawing mounting complaints from consumers who now opt to buy the imported rice.

Not enough

Roberta Resaba of Barangay Alegria in San Francisco, said 2 kilos of rice were not enough to feed her four grownup children.

Resaba said her family started to patronize NFA rice when it was offered at P18.50 a few months back. Like her, other consumers who joined a long queue at an NFA outlet Monday pleaded for an increase of the ration from 2 kilos to 5 a day.

Last week, the agency received 120,000 bags of Vietnam rice, which its Caraga director, Gil Pepito Paqueo, said was enough to ensure "no food shortage in the region."

In nearby Butuan City, Fernando Nuñez, NFA manager in Butuan and Agusan del Norte, said the high prices were due to increased demand because of the coming lean season.

Nuñez said the buying spree by rice traders from outside Caraga had dried up the supply of local rice millers and grain wholesalers supposedly intended for the city.

Spike in prices

A small rice retailer at the Langihan market in Butuan blamed the rice millers and grain wholesalers for the spike in prices.

"The greedy rice millers and wholesalers are responsible for the increases. By controlling the supply, they manipulate the prices," he said.

Nuñez said he had already ordered an increase in the volume of rice the NFA was distributing daily from 900 bags to 1,200 to its 143 accredited outlets.

"We are mitigating the impact of the price hike by increasing the availability of NFA rice in the markets," he said.

At a meeting with Reyes Monday afternoon, Arthur Diaz, a project development officer of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, said his office was planning to add 24 outlets to the 93 "Tindahan Natin" stores in Davao del Sur. Orlando Dinoy, Edwin O. Fernandez, Ma. Cecilia Rodriguez, Chris V. Panganiban, Franklin A. Caliguid, Inquirer Mindanao; and Kristine L. Alave and Michael Lim Ubac in Manila

Photos @ Rizal, Bansalan Davao del Sur

2008-06-03T07:08:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Fiesta in the Barangay

2008-06-03T06:38:00.000-07:00

Photo taken @ Rizal, Bansalan Davao del Sur

Fiesta Celebration in the barangay is always coupled with "salu-salu" kumbira, or "hikay" The photos shown above manifest the preparation being made by the local residents.They slaughtered nine pigs which is to be equally divided by the members of the group. Monthly contributions are expected from the members of the team. They conduct regular meetings to update their accounts. Some of them relend the money to the members of the organization to generate additional income. We commonly called this organization as "bubo" or "bugso" These gestures are manifestations of unity and oneness in the annual fiesta in honor to the the local patron saint.

Bansalan Parish Church

2008-06-03T05:33:00.000-07:00

The Immaculate Conception Parish Church

The Parish church is not only a House of Prayer but also a community landmark. 50 years after its original construction, the Parish Priest in the person of Rev. Cristito Carmona , DCD, had initiated its renovation. Several projects are also added and constructed to include; replacement and painting of the ceiling; provision of painted glasses of the mysteries of the Holy Rosary and scenes of the Old Testament; Painting of the Bellfry; renovation of the candle booth; putting up of the replica of the Last Supper, Ascension , Calvary Scene and Ten Commandments and the like.

The recent on-going project is the construction of the main gate. (Pictures will be uploaded soon). Indeed, God's generosity is manifested by the people around. All projects were made possible through the support of the parishioners and benefactors both local and abroad. Fr. Tito and Fr Ardianne had made a great contribution to success of these projects.

Munisipyo Ng Barangay

2008-05-27T16:35:00.000-07:00

The Local Government of Bansalan, Davao del Sur thru the Leadership of Hon. Edwin G. Reyes had launched the program dubbed as Munisipyo Ng Barangay (MBN). The goal of this program is to bring the services of the government closer to the grassroots. All agencies under LGU Bansalan bring their programs and projects to the barangay level. National Government Agencies (NGAs) are also joining the said activity.

The Cooperative Development Authority also supports this program. Me, as the Cooperative Development Specialist, had manifested my effort to bring our agency's services to Marber MultiPurpose Cooperative. Indeed, the LGU Bansalan and the CDA are partners for progress and development.