Bank of Commerce Hosts CASAP-Bacolod’s DBM 1A for Bank Tour

Leni Dujon-Leong, Assistant Manager, and Mark Ojeras, Branch Manager, (seated) with branch staff (at the back), Instructor James U. Sy Jr., and Principles of Finance Diploma in Business Management (DBM) 1A students of the College of Arts & Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus at the conclusion of the Bank Tour at Bank of Commerce, 888 Premiere Mall, Gatuslao St., Bacolod City on November 11, 2016 (NDB photo).

Leni Dujon-Leong, Assistant Manager, and Mark Ojeras, Branch Manager, giving a short talk about the banking function and its role in the economy and individual savings to Principles of Finance Diploma in Business Management (DBM) 1A students of the College of Arts & Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus during the Bank Tour at Bank of Commerce, 888 Premiere Mall, Gatuslao St., Bacolod City on November 11, 2016 (NDB photo). 19 Diploma in Business Management (DBM) 1A students of the College of Arts & Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus, along with their Instructor James U. Sy Jr., were welcomed and hosted by Branch Manager Mark Ojera and Assistant Manager Leni Dujon-Leong for a Bank Orientation and Bank Tour last November 11, 2016 at the Bank of Commerce-888 Chinatown Square Premiere Mall Branch, Gatuslao St., Bacolod City. The bank tour was part of the course requirements for the subject Principles of Finance, which covers money, banking, and credit, and aims to expose students to banking functions and operation in real life. Ojera and Leong gave a short talk on the importance of banking institutions in the Philippine financial system and the value of savings among the youth. The bank tour is among the efforts of College of Arts & Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus under the leadership of School Director Jun C. Montaño, MPA, and College Dean Maximo F. Torrento Jr. to equip students and make them more competitive to the demands of the globalized industry. The College of Arts & Sciences of Asia & the Pacific (CASAP) is a private educational institution founded by Hon. former Marikina Mayor Ma. Lourdes C. Fernando in 2010 in Marikina City, currently with 4 separate campuses nationwide. The Bank of Commerce, an affiliate of the San Miguel Corporation group, is one of the country’s progressive commercial banks (JUS).

DTI Conducts “Doing Business in FTA” Seminar by: James U. Sy Jr.

Resource speakers, DTI officials, and the participants of the "Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTA)" information session organized by the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Negros Occidental for Bacolod and Negros Occidental-based business enterprises on November 8, 2016 at the Molasses Hall, Sugarland Hotel, Araneta St., Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr. photo).

Resource speaker Rudolph Jay Velasco of Pampanga, Trade-Industry Development Specialist (TIDS), Market Innovation Division (MID), EMB, DTI, gave a talk on “Philippine-US Bilateral Trade and US GSP” during the "Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTA)" information session organized by the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Negros Occidental on November 8, 2016 at Sugarland Hotel City (James U. Sy Jr. photo).

Resource speaker Nick Johnson of Atlanta, Georgia, President/CEO of Asia Etc., gave a talk on "Market Opportunities in the US for Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)" during the "Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTA)" information session organized by the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Negros Occidental on November 8, 2016 at Sugarland Hotel City (James U. Sy Jr. photo). The "Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTA)" information session was successfully presented by the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Negros Occidental for Bacolod and Negros Occidental-based business enterprises on November 8, 2016 at the Molasses Hall, Sugarland Hotel, Araneta St., Bacolod City. Attendance was more than the expected 60 participants from the business sector, as well as from the academe (USLS and CASAP-Bacolod included). Resource Speakers were Rudolph Jay Velasco, Trade-Industry Development Specialist (TIDS), Market Innovation Division (MID), EMB, DTI, for “Philippine-US Bilateral Trade and US GSP” and Nick Johnson of Atlanta, Georgia, President/CEO of Asia Etc., for "Market Opportunities in the US for Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)." Velasco informed the participants that the top Philippine export for the Philippines was electronics at 57% of the $58.83 billion total exports of the country. Under the Philippine-US Bilateral Trade in 2015, the USA ranked 2nd as import source of the Philippines at $7.47B, 2nd as export market at $9.02B, and 3rd as trading partner at $16.49B. Velasco also talked about market opportunities in the USA, consumer trends in the USA, recent export promotions in the US, and the US Generalized Schemes of Preferences (GSP). Johnson, who had been to all of Asia, focused on the export of food products to the USA. He talked about the market demographics, citing both the mainstream and ethnic segments, how they shop and the shifting trends towards online shopping,branding, positioning, pricing, value chain including distribution partners in the US and retailers, warehousing,and other details specific to the industry. The DBFTA is a business-education program by the DTI with the goal of informing businesses of the benefits of Free Trade agreements (FTAs) and has now expanded to include sessions on ASEAN integration and GSP schemes. Free-trade agreements (FTAs) and Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) eliminates or reduces tariffs thereby making Philippine products more price-competitive in the global market. More than half of Philippine exports are with FTA partners and GSP donor countries. Leading DTI-Negros Occidental in organizing the event was Rachel N. Nufable, Chief Trade and Industry Development Specialist/Division Chief. Master of Ceremonies was Romel Amihan, Ph.D.,Senior Trade-Industry Development Specialist (STIDS). Completing the DTI team were Engr. Engiemar Tupas and Mae Buaron, both STIDS. \\

CASAP’s Class Officers Elected By: James U. Sy Jr.

BSAT 2A Economics class at MCF, College of Arts & Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS photo).

BSIS 2A HBO class at TCF2, College of Arts & Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS photo). Class officers of the Bachelor of Science in Accounting Technology (BSAT) 2A, Bachelor of Science in Information System (BSIS) 2A, and Diploma in Business Management (DBM) for SY 2016-2017 were elected recently at the College of Arts & Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus, G/F Milagros Bldg., Rosario-Gatuslao Sts., Bacolod City. This year’s officers for BSAT 2A are Juvia Grace V. Caceres (President), Glendelyn B. Morales (Vice President), Dailyn Cañete (Secretary), Lady Lee Alintana (Treasurer), Kathylou Q. Sampit (Auditor), Johnna Jhayne Bantilan (Business Manager), Mae A. Sarabia (PIO), and Eugene dela Cruz and Jaycel Mae Olarve (Sgt. at Arms). For BSIS 2A, new officers are Jeamae Cabison (President), Kean dela Peña (Vice President), Jana Joy Mabaquiao (Secretary), Grace Bandiola (Treasurer), Jimrose Thea Galan (Auditor), Arjay Esteban (Business Manager), Riza Mae Catam-isan (PIO), and John Geiro Garolacan and Richell Garzon (Sgt. at Arms), Daisy Mae semeniano (Muse), and Joey Javellana (Escort). Those elected to the posts for DBM 1A were Julie Ann Quezon (President), Ana May Jaculbe (Vice President), Rosylle Hadia (Secretary), Rochelle Jimenez (Treasurer), Rovelyn Pardilla (Auditor), Ronice Alondra Magbanua (Business Manager), Marvin G. Salem (PIO), May Angel Claverias (Muse), and Jomel Barbon (Escort).

Trive W.A.R. XXVII Explodes @ 888 Premier Mall By: James U. Sy Jr.

Organize Founder/Master Roy R. Flores of Tribu Hangaway Philippines (THP), |Master Ricardo Filipinas of Sacred Ki Art of Kickfighting (SKAK), and Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr., of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. (2nd, 5th, and 7th from the left respectively) with members of the Tigers team at the conclusion of the Trive W.A.R. (Warrior’s Art Rumble) XXVII on October 23, 2016 at the Activity Area, 888 Premier Mall, Gatuslao St., Bacolod City (James u. sy Jr./CMAS photo).

One of the six no-gi Jiu-jitsu bouts contested during the Trive W.A.R. (Warrior’s Art Rumble) XXVII on October 23, 2016 at the Activity Area, 888 Premier Mall, Gatuslao St., Bacolod City (James u. sy Jr./CMAS photo). Trive W.A.R. (Warrior’s Art Rumble) XXVII, the longest running multi-martial art-system tournament in Bacolod City, was successfully held by the Tribu Hangaway Philippines (THP) of Master Roy R. Flores on October 23, 2016 at the Activity Area, 888 Premier Mall, Gatuslao St., Bacolod City. A total of 10 bouts were contested, 4 for Wushu Sanshou and the rest for no gi grappling/Jiu-jitsu with the participation and officiating of 10 martial arts groups. Competing teams were Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr., Fight Club (FC) of Founder/Chief Instructor Edwin Tusil, Leverage Jiu-jitsu of Founder Don Villacin (represented by Adrian Gellana in the event), New Life Jiu-jitsu of Trainor Ken Toledo, Purple Belt, 1 on 1 of Trainor/Owner Brian Encartes, Pangamut International of Master Stephen Dedel, Sacred Ki Art of Kickfighting (SKAK) of Master Ricardo Filipinas, Supreme Modern Combat (SMC) represented by seniors Patrick Barrera and Dennis Villacrusis, Tigers Team of Dan Visitacion, and Tribu Hangaway Philippines (THP) of Master Roy R. Flores. WUSHU SANSHOU. Jowel Salodo of Tigers Team, 116 lbs., over Ronald Homma of Fight Club, 121 lbs. Roy Flores Jr. of Tribu Hangaway over Geniel Alit of 1 on 1/Leverage Jiu-jitsu. Rodgie Aquino of 1 on 1/Leverage Jiu-jitsu over Biboy Mayang of Tribu Hangaway. Julius A. Alipato of Fight Club, 145 lbs., over Mokey Poblado of Tigers Team, 142 lbs. NO GI GRAPPLING/JIU-JITSU. Christian Abelarde of FC, 158 lbs., over Rubin Jacube of TT, 140 lbs. Al Abelarde of FC, 174 lbs., over Japit Jemeña of THP, 186 lbs. Mark Mayang of THP, 129 lbs., over Jam Ramirez of FC, 117 lbs. Dave Gonzales of 1 on 1/Leverage Jiu-jitsu over John Mark Aram of Pangamut International, 153 lbs., via guillotine choke at 3:11. Miko Pamplieaga of Leverage Jiu-jitsu over Christopher Alita of New Life Jiu-jitsu. Al Abelarde of FC, 174 lbs., over Rubin Jacube of TT, 140 lbs. (openweight category). Officlas were Master Roy R. Flores of THP (Referee), Master Ricardo Filipinas of SKAK and Black Belts Patrick Barrera and Dennis Villacrusis of SMC (Judges), Ms. Julie Pantua, of Paglaum Village National High School, Official Coach of Bacolod City in DepEd Wushu Sanshou (Head Jury), Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of CMAS (Master of ceremony and Recordkeeper), Chloe De Guzman of THP-Jiu-jitsu (Timer), and Stephanie Sagal of THP-Miay Thai (Flag Raiser).

Soriño & Alnasan, 2016 Ms. & Mr. PDPR of Bcc BSOA 1G By: James U. Sy Jr.

BCC instructors James U. Sy Jr., Mario Pao Jr., and Ma. Victoria "Marivic" Galleguez, MBA, with BSOA 1G at the conclusion of the PDPR Program Requirements "Bonding Through Social Gatherings" on October 18, 2016 at Room 9, New BSOA Bldg., Bacolod City College (BCC)-Taculing Campus, Taculing Rd., Brgy. Taculing, Bacolod City (CMAS photo). Rose Jean Soriño and Jhie Cyprus Alnasan were named 2016 Ms. And Mr. PDPR of BSOA 1G with scores of 98% and 95% respectively during the Personality Development Public Relations (PDPR) Program Requirements culminating activity with the theme “Bonding Through Social Gatherings” on October 18, 2016 at Room 9, New BSOA Bldg., Bacolod City College (BCC)-Taculing Campus., Brgy. Taculing, Bacolod City. Sharina Fernandez and Saira Dematillo were 1st and 2nd runner up respectively. Soriño, who was candidate no. 21, was also named Best in Casual Attire among the 28 contestants of BSOA 1G. Other winners were Joenilyn Esquia (Best in Formal Attire), Foulin Recodo (Best in Office Attire), and Rhei Gaudenio (Best in Sports Attire). All the freshmen of the BSOA department, sections A to H, are under the supervision and advisory of Ma. Victoria “Marivic” B. Galleguez, MBA, who has taught at BCC since 2000. The participants were judged according to the following criteria: appropriateness of clothes 25%, make up 25%, self confidence 25%, and bearing/poise 25%. Judge was James U. Sy Jr., Instructor at BCC and the College of Arts and Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus. In-charge for the program were Veronica Dumdumaya and Foulin Recodo (Master of Ceremonies), Decel Ann Colantes (opening prayer and intermission number), class president Hamah Paula Delas Alas (Lupang Hinirang), and Jayve Madillas (intermission number). Personality Development Public Relations (PDPR) is among the required subjects for the course of BSOA at BCC. Here the students are taught by Galleguez the finesse, poise, confidence, and overall personality development that are very essential to the course. Galleguez was awarded her Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) by La Consolacion College (LCC) in 2005, graduating as Magna Cumlaude. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Commerce (BSC) at Colegio de San Agustin-Bacolod (CSA-B) in 1982 and her Bachelor of Science in Secretarial Administration (BSSA) at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R) in 1999. She has previously taught at West Negros College (WNC) (1995-2000) and CSA-B (1985-1995). Also gracing the event was BSOA Insturctor Mario Pao Jr. The BSOA department is under the leadership of Program Coordinator (PC) Aprilene Ferreras.

“Someone to Watch Over Me” Kapuso Stars Wow Bacoleños in MassKara Mall Show, Encantadia Stars Up Next by: James U. Sy Jr.

NDB writers Gil Alfredo B. Severino and James U. Sy Jr. with Lovi Poe,Tom Rodriguez, and Max Collins during the GMA Kapuso Press Conference for "Someone to Watch Over Me" on October 14, 2016 at Planta Hotel, Bacolod City (NDB photo).

Bacolod media with Lovi Poe,Tom Rodriguez, and Max Collins during the GMA Kapuso Press Conference for "Someone to Watch Over Me" on October 14, 2016 at Planta Hotel, Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr. photo).

NDB columnist/feature writer James U. Sy Jr. with Lovi Poe during the GMA Kapuso Press Conference for "Someone to Watch Over Me" on October 14, 2016 at Planta Hotel, Bacolod City (NDB photo).

NDB writers Gil Alfredo B. Severino and James U. Sy Jr. interviewing Lovi Poe,Tom Rodriguez, and Max Collins during the GMA Kapuso Press Conference for "Someone to Watch Over Me" on October 14, 2016 at Planta Hotel, Bacolod City (NDB photo).

Lovi Poe,Tom Rodriguez, and Max Collins answering questions from the Bacolod media during the GMA Kapuso Press Conference for "Someone to Watch Over Me" on October 14, 2016 at Planta Hotel, Bacolod City (NDB photo). Kapuso stars Tom Rodriguez, Lovi Poe, and Max Collins of “Someone to Watch Over Me” flew to the City of Smiles last October 14, 2016 to serenade their Bacoleño and Negrosanon fans in their highly successful Kapuso Mall Show at the Atrium, SM City Bacolod as part of this year’s MassKara Festival celebration. GMA Network is always one with Bacoleños in this yearly celebration, with the stars of GMA’s top-rating Telababad show flying in to meet and entertain their fans. Like the previous year, the Kapuso Mall Show will be a back-to-back treat, with the stars of Encantadia - Sanya Lopez, Rocco Nacino, Klea Pineda, and Migo Adecer - bringing the magic to Bacolod City and taking the center stage in another heart-stopping show come this October 22, 2016, again at the Atrium, SM City Bacolod. Oliver Amoroso, Officer-in-Charge of GMA’s Regional TV Department hopes that “our Kapusong Negrense will have a great time with the back-to-back Kapuso Mall Shows we prepared for them as part of this major celebration.” Amoroso said this is the way GMA shows how they value the celebrations of their fellow Kapuso all around the country. “Someone to Watch Over Me” is an inspirational drama, which in the words of Rodriguez, has already been explored before but differs in the way how it has been structured and presented from a fresh perspective. It is about a wife’s unwavering love for her husband who is suffering from early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The character of Joanna Mercado, the compassionate wife, is played by Lovi Poe. Tom Rodriguez breathes life into the person of TJ Chavez, the husband of Joanna who is stricken with the illness. Joanna is wlling to sacrifice her happiness for the sake of her husband, even allowing Irene Montenegro, played by Max Collins, into their lives and into their home. Joanna took the role of TJ’s “caregiver” while Irene, TJ’s ex-girlfriend, receives all his love and affection. TJ no longer remembers Joanna as his wife and. “Someone to Watch Over Me” will explore up to what extent love will be able to hold on in the face of despair. Poe, Rodriguez, and Collins, who meet the Bacolod media in a press conference prior to the Kapuso Mall Show, said that the series gave them a fresh challenge as they had to do research on the real symptoms, effects, and consequences of such an illness. Tom Rodriguez in particular elaborated on how he had to go through the internet to read the journals of people with family who are afflicted with the illness. From these journals he got a good glimpse of Alzheimer's disease in the real world. Collins revealed that her character didn’t know that TJ had the illness. Poe’s character requires her to endure a lot of pain as apparently she is the only one who has a good grasp of what’s happening. “Someone to Watch Over Me” continues to attract viewers as the plot is gradually unraveled. Meanwhile, the telefantasya Encantadia is the highest-rating Kapuso program among the most-watched shows in NUTAM, according to recent data from the Nielsen TV Audience Measurement, the industry’s trusted ratings service provider. Follow GMA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gmanetwork and GMA Regional TV at www.facebook.com/GMARegionalTV and on Twitter and Instagram via @GMARegionalTV to know more about the Network’s regional events.

CASAP-Bacolod Sr. High Campus Inauguration Today by James U. Sy Jr.

The Senior High School Campus of the College of Arts & Sciences of Asia & the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus will be inaugurated today, October 7, 2016, 9:00 AM, at its location at Palanca Ave., Brgy. 35, Bacolod City. The sprawling 7 ha. facility includes three buildings with a total floor area of 1 ha. and boasts a total of 36 classrooms to accommodate its more than 1,200 senior high school students, the third highest enrollment among schools in the province for this semester. The new building includes computer laboratory, science laboratory, kitchen, mock hotel, banquet hall, and library. The ceremony will be graced by the institution’s Founder/President/Chairman Hon. former Marikina City Mayor Ma. Lourdes C. Fernando, Vice President Rossana Buzeta, and Managing Director Arnold Pediongco. Fernando is the wife of Hon. former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman and now Cong. Bayani F. Fernando. Also to grace the event are Hon. Bacolod City Vice Mayor El Cid M. Familiaran, Brgy. 35 officials, and officials from the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd), Department of Education (DepEd), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Preparations for the inauguration was spearheaded by CASAP-Bacolod School Director Jun Montaño, MPA, and College Dean Maximo Torrento Jr. CASAP-Bacolod Senior High School offers GAS, HUMSS, STEM, and TVL.

The Pen is Mightier than the Sword, or the Click is Mightier than the Firearm Rather: Globalized Journalism with NDB By: James U. Sy Jr.

Now on its 56th year, the Negros Daily Bulletin (NDB) is like fine wine, the older it gets, the better it is. Our President/Editor-in-Chief Mr. Ruperto G. Toga once reminished to me how the NDB, as a weekly, was printed in the 1960’s; the news were slow to collect because the communication systems were not that sophisticated back then. Add to that how difficult the old printing method was and you’ll see how the newspaper can only manage one issue per week. But that was back then. Today, the news flow freely and unhampered from all directions (hence, N-north, E-east, W-west, S-south) because of better communication and printing technology, a more systematic industry, and of course, the internet. NDB has withstood the test of time, spanning the term of nine Philippine presidents, and I am proud to be part of it. The title for this piece is actually a modification of the title of an earlier article I wrote for the 53rd Anniverssary Issue of NDB in 2013, “The Pen is Mightier than the Sword: My Journey with NDB.” I chose the pen (or more accurately, the brush in Chinese culture) as a metaphor because it represents the scholastic side of the warrior and it symbolizes a higher consciousness of oneself and maturity into a physically, mentally, and spiritually superior human being who ultimately understands life and its real purpose. NDB was and still is a significant stimulus to this self realization. The “Click is Mightier than the Firearm” is actually a play on the pen/sword metaphor, signifying the constant flux in the universe and the constant change of everything in life, including scholarship, technology, and journalism among others. Time changes everything. Those who can’t adapt and don’t evolve will perish. Today, the mouse has become on the same league, if not above, the pen. This best describes my 16/17 years stint with NDB as a columnist, feature writer, photojournalist, and reporter, thousands of steps and hundreds, if not thousands, of articles depicting the changing world around us. A consummate writer by heart, I use to type my manuscripts on a pica or elite typewriter, have a picture or two developed, and physically deliver the same to the NDB office for publication. That was then. Now the email works wonders. Less time required, no paper needed. The beauty of technology, and the speed by which we have to go by our modern world. I may pale in comparison to a hardcore all-around mediaman primarily because by profession I am not a mediaman I don’t have a degree in Journalism; what I have is a bachelor’s degree in Marketing Management from the University of St. La Salle (USLS) and Completed Academic Requirements (CAR)-level units for my Master’s Degree at Carlos Hilado Memorial State College-Fortune Towne (CHMSC-FT) (where incidentally I’m also the Editor-in-Chief for the Masters Program publication, Paglaum). I’m an industry man (as well as an entrepreneur), having had eight formal employers representing at least five industries. I was twice a banker, with Prime Savings Bank and East West Bank, both Bacolod Branches. I was a Purchasing Officer at Asian Alcohol Corporation (AAC) of the Lucio Tan Group of Companies (LTGC) before I took a teaching position with Bacolod City College (BCC) and College of the Arts and Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus. I write because I love to. Writing started out just as a hobby for me, in a way to also maintain my proficiency in the English language. I have come to realize that most employees stop learning once they leave school. Learning is really a life long pursuit because most of what we have learned in school during the first 20 years of our lives will become obsolete in the next 20 years. Using the brain continuously makes it active and healthy even in advanced years. Use it or lose it. Due to my background, I am a “specialist” writer. I write about things that I know best and love, starting with the martial arts when I began writing for the NDB. Over the years, I have written about Arnis/Eskrima, Judo, Karate, Aikido, Taekwondo, Muay Thai, Boxing, Grappling, Jiu-jitsu, etc. (all arts I have studied before) and their proponents in Bacolod, Negros Island, and nearby places. No other writer in Negros Island Region (NIR) has penned such an extensive and non-partisan coverage of this specialized field in Negros. Since then, most of the grand old men of Arnis/Eskrima whom I have interviewed for these articles have passed away, the most recent of which was P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra (1933-2016), the President of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. The articles I wrote about them will serve as a historical record of “mga tumandok nga mga hangkilan kag ang ila nga mga pamaagi sang pag-amlig sa kaugalingon.” Then I started diversifying. Not all people are interested in the martial arts and there are many topics under the sun that can be talked about. NDB is primarily positioned as a community newspaper, one where you feel like you’re really part of it. As such, when I started my column “Culture Nurture” there was that purpose of educating the public about countless issues and topics which will catch their fancy and make them experience the joys of reading while sipping a cup of coffee or swinging away in their rocking chairs or seated upright in their swivel chairs. “Culture” because it is the sum total of man’s achievements, everything about humanity. “Nurture” signifies growth, evolution, development, a way of life if you will. “Culture Nurture” has featured articles on diverse fields such as entertainment (movies, celebrities), history, religion, language and linguistics, banking and finance, frauds and scams, business, and much more. Of course, these pieces were written with globalization in mind. Nowadays, national boundaries become obscured as trade is now conducted through the net (and even newspapers are online as well), alliances among nations, such as the ASEAN and the EU, have a large impact in our economy and our standing in the international arena as sovereignty as well as a consumer and a producer. Not enough can be said about journalism with a global flare in such a limited space. Nevertheless, the NDB will always be in the forefront to deliver to its readers up to date and relevant news reports and special interest articles for them to continuously learn, regarless of age, and be abreast of the ever changing and more boundaryless world that we live in. Every writer leaves behind their legacy when they leave this world. This piece and all others before and after this will be my legacy left in ink. My heartfelt thanks to the ever helpful and accommodating NDB family: to Sir Pert, Arman, Henry James, Ms. Ana, Cyrus, and all the others.

Faune-Locsin Talk on Federalism by: James U. Sy Jr.

Mary Jane Faue-Locsin, Visayas Coordinator of Hugpong Federal and a close aide of President Duterte, as guest speaker, talked about federalism during the Task Force Crusaders Against Crime, Illegal Drugs, and Corruption Grand Launching on August 20, 2016 at the Grand Regal Hotel (James U. Sy Jr./NDB photo). Mary Jane Faune-Locsin of Janiway, Iloilo, Visayas Coordinator of Hugpong Federal and a close aide of President Duterte, was the guest speaker during the Task Force Crusaders Against Crime, Illegal Drugs, and Corruption Grand Launching was by the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) under Hon. Atty. Jose Calida in cooperation with Kasanag Foundation Inc. under Founder/President John Chiong under the auspices of the Office of the President under President Rodrigo Duterte on August 20, 2016 at the Imperial Hall, Grand regal Hotel, Araneta St., Bacolod City. She spoke on the nature and structure of federalism, which according to her, was being pushed by the president even when he was still the mayor of Davao City. President Duterte plans to create a Constitutional Commission in September that will work out the transition Philippines into a federal government. Faune-Locsin explained the advantages of federalism, highlighting the fact that in this form of government power is decentralized from the national (federal) government), thereby allowing greater flexibility, and increases the revenue of the local (state) government. Only 20% of the taxes will go to the federal government; the rest stays with the state. Faune-Locsin noted that the USA, Canada, and Australia use this form of government. Under the federal form of government, the federal government will only have control over national defense, foreign affairs, natural resources, and customs and immigration. The state meanwhile, can institute their own economic policies and will have their own constitution, judiciary, and police force. A state can be defined based on its geography, culture, and language among other things, according to Faune-Locsin. She adds that the Philippines can solve the unequal distribution of wealth, The other guest speaker for the grand launching was bemedalled PNP Gen. (Ret.) Romeo Maganto, Ph.D. in Criminology, Consultant of the OSG and National Commander of the Task Force Crusaders, who talked about the crime situation in the Philippines. Gracing the event were PO2 (Ret.) Rex Noble, TFC Regional Commander; John Chiong, TFC Deputy Commander and National Secretariat, and concurrent Commander for Western Visayas; TFC deputies and volunteer-members from Negros Island Region, Iloilo, Cebu, Biliran, and Cagayan de Oro; Gloria Villamin, Project Implementor/Coordinator-Talisay; Lilia Matti, Project Implementor/Coordinator-Bago; Pastor Winston Villanueva, KASANAG Head Organizer; Edith A. Riofrer, KASANAG VP-Operation/Coop Chairman; emcee Gil Alfredo B. Severino, M.A., a UP-Diliman trained educator teaching at Riverside College; Sarah C. Villan, usherette; and the Bacolod media.

Task Force Crusaders Against Crime, Drugs Launched in Bacolod by: James U. Sy Jr.

The Task Force Crusaders Against Crime, Illegal Drugs, and Corruption Grand Launching on August 20, 2016 at the Grand Regal Hottel (James U. Sy Jr./NDB photo).

Bemedalled PNP Gen. (Ret.) Romeo Maganto, Ph.D. in Criminology, Consultant of the OSG and National Commander of the Task Force Crusaders, as guest speaker, talked about crime in the Philippines during the Task Force Crusaders Against Crime, Illegal Drugs, and Corruption Grand Launching on August 20, 2016 at the Grand Regal Hotel (James U. Sy Jr./NDB photo).

Master of Ceremonies Gil Alfredo B. Severino, MA, a UP-Diliman trained Social Sciences Instructor at Riverside College, with Guest Speakers Ms. Mary Jane Faune Locsin, Hugpong Federal Coordinator and Close Aide of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte, and bemedalled PNP Gen. (Ret.) Romeo Maganto, Ph.D., during the Task Force Crusaders Against Crime, Illegal Drugs, and Corruption Grand Launching on August 20, 2016 at the Grand Regal Hottel (James U. Sy Jr./NDB photo). The Task Force Crusaders Against Crime, Illegal Drugs, and Corruption Grand Launching was successfully held by the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) under Hon. Atty. Jose Calida in cooperation with Kasanag Foundation Inc. under Founder/President John Chiong under the auspices of the Office of the President under President Rodrigo Duterte on August 20, 2016 at the Imperial Hall, Grand regal Hotel, Araneta St., Bacolod City. Bemedalled PNP Gen. (Ret.) Romeo Maganto, Ph.D. in Criminology, Consultant of the OSG and National Commander of the Task Force Crusaders, told the volunteers and the media who attended the gathering that the TF was created to serve as the counter-intelligence unit of the Office of the President and of the Office of the Solicitor General, and carry out covert operations if necessary, and help in the president’s nationwide campaign against illegal drugs, crime, and corruption. Gen. Maganto appointed PO2 (Ret.) Rex Noble as regional commander and Chiong as Deputy Commander and National Secretariat, and concurrent Commander for Western Visayas. He also offciated the oath-taking of TFC commanders, deputies, and volunteer-members from Negros Island Region, Iloilo, Cebu, Biliran, and Cagayan de Oro with an initial headcount of 30 (although a million volunteer-members from all over the nation is expected ultimately). Gen. Maganto, whose resume would speak volumes, was introduced very briefly, yet concisely, by emcee Gil Alfredo B. Severino, M.A., a UP-Diliman trained educator teaching at Riverside College, when he said, “If I will read his whole resume, it will take me up to 2:00 PM, so I will just let the man speak for himself.” The venerable general is a 31-year veteran of the Philippine National Police (PNP) with no leaves and absences, rising through the ranks from a mere patrolman to police general based on merit and achievement. He is the youngest to be promoted to police general at age 44 and is the one and only police officer to be awarded Top 10 Outstanding Policemen of the Philippines 7 times, inspite of the fact that 116,000 police officers vie for the recognition. During the press conference, Gen. Maganto explained the nature of the TFC. Recruitment for the TFC will focus on retired AFP, PNP, and NBI personnel, individuals who already have the necessary training and skills for the job, as well as other patriotic Filipinos. All applicants must not have criminal records. The TFC as a counter-intelligence unit is not a vigilante group, which the general wouldn’t encourage because it is against the law. Initially, crusaders will be volunteering their services because of a lack of funds for the period. However, crusaders will be rewarded with whatever monetary bounty that is placed on the head of captured criminals. TFC members will be allowed to carry firearms but the general will have the last say on who will be allowed to carry them. Mary Jane Faune-Locsin of Janiway, Iloilo, Visayas Coordinator of Hugpong Federal and a close aide of President Duterte, was the guest speaker, explaining what is federalism and the president’s plan to transition into a federal government. Also present during the launching were Gloria Villamin, Project Implementor/Coordinator-Talisay; Lilia Matti, Project Implementor/Coordinator-Bago; Pastor Winston Villanueva, KASANAG Head Organizer; Edith A. Riofrer, KASANAG VP-Operation/Coop Chairman; Sarah C. Villan, usherette; and the Bacolod media.

World Class Philippines Social Tourism Talk @ CASAP-Bacolod by: James U. Sy Jr.

College of Arts & Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP) BSTM and DTM students with Anna Roux of France, Resource Speaker Thomas Graham of the UK, Tony Altonaga of Gawad Kalinga and CASAP Faculty Shane Matti and James U. Sy Jr. at the conclusion of the "Motivational Talk on World-Class Philippines and Social Tourism" on August 17, 2016 at the Theater, G/F Milagros Bldg., Rosario-Gatuslao Sts., Bacolod City (CMAS photo). Thomas Graham of the UK, an international journalist, Co-Founder of MAD (Make A Difference) Travel, and the Author of the best selling book “The Genius of the Poor,” conducted the “Motivational Talk on World Class Philippines and Social Tourism” for not less than 80 Tourism students of the College of Arts and Sciences of Asia and the Pacific (CASAP) on August 17, 2016 at the Theater, G/F Milagros Bldg., Rosario-Gatulao Sts., Bacolod City. CASAP is the first institution of higher learning in Negros Occidental to host Graham, who has been delivering a series of speaking engagements across the Philippines including Manila, Cebu, and Davao, to institutions ranging from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) to National Book Store Inc. (NBSI), and Marco Polo Hotel, and to educational institutions such as Ateneo de Davao, Centro Escobar University, and San Beda College among others. The motivational talk was facilitated by Ms. Shane Oñate, Full Tourism Instructor, with the approval of Maximo F. Torrento Jr., MBA, College Dean, and Jun C. Montaño, MPA, College Administrator. Thomas, in his distinctively Brit accent and humor, has expressed how he was greatly inspired by the Filipino people, particularly the work of Gawad Kalinga (GK), and thus, highlighted the unique qualities of the Filipinos that separate them from other cultures and how they can use these to great advantage in what he calls social tourism. Social tourism is a new form of travel where marginalized, rural communities provide fun and fulfilling experiences including homestays, local tours, immersive experiences, cooking classes, and more. This is a departure from the customary tourism which is primarily centered on commercial in scope. CASAP, founded by former Marikina City Mayor Ma. Lourdes C. Fernando in 2010, is a 4-campus institution of higher learning recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Department of Education (DepEd), and Technical Education & Skills Development Authority (TESDA) that offers Bachelor’s degree course in Accounting Technology, Public Management, Computer Science, Information Science, and Tourism Management as well as diploma course in Business Management, Computer Science, Computer Technology, Hotel and Restaurant Services, and Travel and Tours Management. The talk was a welcome addition to CASAP’s efforts to bring up-to-date industry developments to its student body and to supplement their classes with industry-based exposure and insights.

Globe, Astro Conduct “TM Football Para sa Bayan” in Neg. Occ. for Camps in Malaysia, Europe by: James U. Sy Jr.

Fernando Esguerra, Globe Director for Citizenship, and Coach Hans Peter Smith, GAU Technical Director, togetehr with the ocal and other regional media people during the “TM Football Para sa Bayan” Negros clinic last July 24, 2016 at the Sta. Maria Football Field in Talisay City (PRworks Visayas-Mindanao photo). 144 children, aged 10-12, from Negros Occidental registered for the “TM Football Para sa Bayan” clinic last July 24, 2016 at the Sta. Maria Football Field in Talisay City and vied for the chance to be among the lucky dozen Filipino kids who will join world class football camps in Malaysia and possibly, Europe this year all-expense paid as part of the tie up between Astro Malaysia and Globe Telecom. The lucky dozen will attend the Astro Kem Bola Advanced Training Programme in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in September 2016, opposite their counterparts from Singapore and Malaysia. The lucky dozen will be narrowed down further to six children who will be attending a football camp in West Ham United Football Club (UK) or FC BARCELONA (Spain) in December, 2016. The Astro Kem Bola Programme aims to provide a comprehensive training and development experience for its participants, according to Datuk David Michael yap, Vice President of Community Affairs. “TM Football Para sa Bayan” has been started by Globe to use the power of sports to instill in the youth the importance of possessing the right attitude, good values, and a good education, Ray Guinoo, TM Portfolio and Brand Head, pointed out. Selections were also conducted for Iloilo (July 23), Davao (August 13), and Manila (August 20). Tiffany Trinidad of the Estafania FC was the only female entrant for the Negros Occidental selection, which was participated in by aspiring footballers from Sum-ag Elementary School, Medel Elementary School, Trinity Christian School, and St. John’s Institute among others. “TM Football Para sa Bayan” is facilitated by the Green archers United (GAU) of De La Salle University (DLSU), the professional football league that is Globe Telecom’s implementing partner of said program. The Negros selection was started as Fernando Esguerra, Globe Director for Citizenship, and Coach Hans Peter Smith, GAU Technical Director, answered querries for the concurrently held press conference for both local and other regional media people.

CASAP-Bacolod Started Classes July 25 by: James U. Sy Jr.

School Director Jun Montaño, MPA, and College Dean Maximo Torrento Jr., MBA, (seated) together with the college faculty of the College of Arts & Sciences of Asia & the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus at the conclusion of their orientation last July 22, 2016 at G/F Milagros Bldg., Cor. Rosario-Gatuslao Sts, Bacolod City (James U. sy Jr./CMAS photo). The College of Arts & Sciences of Asia & the Pacific (CASAP)-Bacolod Campus officially started classes for the its college, senior and junior high school, competency based training and short term courses, elementary, and basic education programs last July 25, 2016, being one of the few educational institutions in Bacolod and Negros Occidental to shift to the international school calendar. At least 70% of universities worldwide start their school year in August, September, or October. Among members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Philippines is the only one still beginning its academic year in June, until the top universities in the country pioneered the shift starting in 2014. The need to shift was strongly influenced by the full ASEAN Integration in 2015 and the trend of globalization in the industry. CASAP, founded by former Marikina City Mayor Ma. Lourdes C. Fernando in 2010, had also adopted the shift in the academic calendar to August to July, instead of the original June to May, to jive with its mission, which is “to produce competitive individuals who will respond to the demands of the industry.” CASAP-Bacolod Campus , under the leadership of School Director Jun Montaño, MPA, and College Dean Maximo Torrento Jr., MBA, offers Bachelor’s degree course in Accounting technology, Public Management, Computer Science, Information Science, and Tourism Management as well as diploma course in Business Management, Computer Science, Computer Technology, Hotel and Restaurant Services, and Travel and Tours Management. CASAP has 4 campuses - in Pasig City, Taytay, Rizal, Bacolod City, and Rodriguez, Rizal - and is recognized by the Technical Education & Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Department of Education (DepEd). CASAP-Bacolod Campus is located at G/F Milagros Bldg., Cor. Rosario-Gatuslao Sts, Bacolod City with its newly constructed senior high facility at Brgy. 16 Blvd.

NEWSIM-Bacolod Soars High on Its 4th Yr. Anniversary by: James U. Sy Jr.

Engr. Edison T. Batalla, MMET, MSM, Chief Training Officer (CTO), welcoming the guests of the 4th Anniversary celebration of NEWSIM-Bacolod Branch last July 5, 2016 at the 4/F LKC Bldg., (James U. Sy Jr./NDB photo).

From left: Engr. Edison T. Batalla, MMET, MSM, Chief Training Officer (CTO),NEWSIM-Bacolod, Chief Mate Stephen Sampalucia, Chief Training Solutions Officer (CTSO) and Chief Training Officer (CTO) of NEWSIM-Iloilo, and Mr. Lloyd Bantiling, COO-Vismin and the Chief Training Officer (CTO) of NEWSIM-Cebu (James U. Sy Jr./NDB photo).

NEWSIM Training Academy (NTA) in Sariaya, Quezon, the first ever resort type seafaring training facility which turns training into an instant vacation (NEWSIM photo).

Bridge A simulator at the training station of NEWSIM-Bacolod Branch (James U. Sy Jr./NDB photo). New Simulator Center of the Philippines, Inc. (NEWSIM)-Bacolod Branch continues to infuse the global maritime industry with highly qualified mariners as its enrollment for the first half of 2016 reached a record 4,051 seafarers, which equaled its average annual enrollment of 4,000, and with 6 more months before the year ends, more will be able to avail of its quality instruction and state of the art training facilities. This was disclosed by Engr. Edison T. Batalla, MMET, MSM, Chief Training Officer (CTO), in his welcome address during the 4th Anniversary celebration of NEWSIM-Bacolod last July 5, 2016 at the 4/F LKC Bldg., Locsin-Burgos Sts., Bacolod City. The Philippines is the seafaring manpower capital of the world, supplying 30% of the more than 1.2 million mariners in the world, and the top supplier of maritime officers in the world, with 86,636 Filipino maritime officers overseas deployed in 2013, according to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).NEWSIM, with head office in Makati City, was launched on December 8, 2000 and in the last 16 years has equipped Filipino seafarers the technical knowledge that makes them much in demand in the global market. NEWSIM is the first ever seafarer training center in the Philippines to offer simulation training stations. NEWSIM has four provincial branches, namely Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Davao. It Is well known for its NEWSIM Training Academy (NTA) in Sariaya, Quezon, the first ever resort type seafaring training facility which turns training into an instant vacation. The seafarers are encouraged to bring along their families and enjoy the facilities of the Monte Vista Beach Resort while attending their training. NEWSIM-Bacolod Branch has already trained about 16,000 seafarers in its well-equipped training and learning stations in the last 4 years of its operation, 2 years of which was under the management of Engr. Batalla. NEWSIM-Bacolod was originally housed at the MFC Bldg. along Lacson St., with only 6 learning stations. The steadily rising demand for Maritime Education and Training moved the management to expand its training facility by transferring it to its much bigger present location at the 3rd and 4th floors of the KC Bldg., Locsin-Burgos Sts., Bacolod City. NEWSIM offers a wide array of training and updating courses broadly categorized into Safety Courses, MLC and OIC Courses, Tanker Courses, and Other Courses. Its Bacolod Branch offers the only simulation training courses recognized by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) in the City of Smiles at this point in time, pointed out by Capt. Reynaldo Española, Instructor/Supervisor/Assessor. The 4th Anniversary celebration of NEWSIM-Bacolod was also graced by Mr. Lloyd Bantiling, COO-Vismin and the Chief Training Officer (CTO) of NEWSIM-Cebu and Chief Mate Stephen Sampalucia, Chief Training Solutions Officer (CTSO) and Chief Training Officer (CTO) of NEWSIM-Iloilo. The program started with a Eucharist celebrated by Fr. Casimiro Batalla. Mr. Bantiling, in his speech, announced that the NEWSIM Training Academy 2 (NTA2) will be opened in Talisay City, province of Cebu at the end of July 2016. The construction of the NEWSIM Training Academy 3 (NTA3) in Guimbal, province of Iloilo will also start at the same time. This is the forefront projects under the leadership of its energetic and dynamic CEO, Capt. Ramil L. Limocon, who hails from Victorias City, Negros Occidental. Interested parties may visit the NEWSIM website at http://newsim.ph/ or its FB page at www.facebook.com/newsim.bacolod/ or contact its Bacolod Branch through email bacolod@newsim.ph, mobile no. 0925-850-1790, or landline (034) 435-0701.

Dr. Jo, New CHMSC-FT CBMA Dean, Also Coor of Masters Program by James U. Sy Jr.

Dr. Joseph Robert Jo, the new Dean of the College of Business, Management and Accountancy (CBMA), Carlos Hilado Memorial State College-Fortune Towne Campus (CHMSC-FT) and concurrent Coordinator of the Graduate Studies Department. Dr. Renato Sorolla, SUC President II, had officially designated Dr. Joseph Robert Jo as Coordinator of the Graduate Studies Department of Carlos Hilado Memorial State College-Fortune Towne Campus (CHMSC-FT) under Special Order No. 52, series of 2016 dated May 3, 2016, and concurrently as Dean of the College of Business, Management and Accountancy (CBMA) of said instiution under Special Order No. 53, series of 2016 dated May 3, 2016, as per delegated authority innate to the Office of the College President, and in accordance with RA 8292. Primary among the responsibilities that goes with the appointments is the planning, implementation, supervision, and evaluation of the academic offerings, programs, and activities of the said departments of the institution. Jo was awarded his BS AB Economics by the Ateneo de Manila in 1984 and earned his Master in Business Administration (MBA) in 2012 and his Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration in 2015, both from the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R). Jo started his teaching career in 2002 when he joined AMA Computer College, serving up to 2005. He worked as a Part Time Instructor at the Bacolod City College (BCC) from 2011 to 2014 and at the University of St. La Salle (USLS) in the College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA) department from 2013 to 2014, after which he transferred to Carlos Hilado Memorial State College (CHMSC) where he is still serving up to the present. Among the subjects he had handled in the Master’s Program were Managerial Economics and Operation & Production Management. With these appointments, Dr. Jo plans to streamline the offerings of the college in consonance of the recent implementation of the K-12 program as well as the strengthening of the faculty profile and the continuous evaluation of the different programs of the institution. CHMSC-FT currently has a total of 71 Instructors, 29 of whom are Full Time and 42 Part Time.

Skwelanihan III Benefits Brgy. Malingin Pupils by James U. Sy Jr.

Recipients with some of the USLS volunteers during the Skwelanihan 3 on June 11, 2016 at the Jalsis Elementary school, Brgy. Malingin, Bago City (MLYAC photo).

Student volunteers from the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) and College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Councils of the University of St. La Salle (USLS) during the Skwelanihan 3 on June 11, 2016 at the Jalsis Elementary school, Brgy. Malingin, Bago City (MLYAC photo).

Student volunteers from the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) and College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Councils of the University of St. La Salle (USLS) during the Skwelanihan 3 on June 11, 2016 at the Jalsis Elementary school, Brgy. Malingin, Bago City (MLYAC photo).

Some of the school supplies given out indigent pupils during the Skwelanihan 3 on June 11, 2016 at the Jalsis Elementary school, Brgy. Malingin, Bago City (MLYAC photo).

Lester "Icy" Nonallada, Founder/President of the Malingin Leaders Youth Association for a Change (MLYAC), in tears for the success of Skwelanihan 3 on June 11, 2016 at the Jalsis Elementary school, Brgy. Malingin, Bago City (MLYAC photo). A total of 400 or more elementary school pupils from grades 1 to 6 received a complete set of school supplies, including among others notebooks, pad paper, pens, pencils, erasers (and uniforms for selected pupils), during the Skwelanihan 3, which was presented by the Malingin Leaders Youth Association for a Change (MLYAC) under its Founder/President Lester "Icy" Nonallada with the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) and College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Councils of the University of St. La Salle (USLS) as major partners on June 11, 2016 at the Jalsis Elementary school, Brgy. Malingin, Bago City. Skwelanihan is a contraction of the Tagalong words eskwelahan “school” and bayanihan “spirit of communal unity and cooperation” and when taken together, symbolizes the desire and effort to support students who have the dedication to pursue their education and by extension, their dreams in life. It is an annual civic project inaugurated in 2014 and conducted during the first week of June to give school supplies to indigent pupils in Brgy. Malingin. MLYAC goes around the 21 puroks of the barangay and qualify recipients. The first batch of beneficiaries in 2014 reached 150. MLYAC is also the proponent of the "Slippers for Hope" and "Disyembregalo" programs. Other sponsors of the project were KASADYA Bacolod Foundation, USLS-Integrated School Community Services, USLS Summer Hotties Batch 2015, Mt. Kanla-on Leo Club, friends of Nonallada, and other sponsors. Nonallada’s advocacy is actually a continuation of the work of his grandfather Luding Nonallada, who served as brgy. chairman for over a decade in Brgy. Malingin. Nonallada have experienced poverty himself and wanted to give back to his community by organizing this project. Brgy. Captain Janet Yasay with other barangay officials, Principal Ma. Dinah Pinky D. Tanajura, the SH & teachers of Jalsis Elementary School, and the recipients were all grateful to Nonallada and the MLYAC. Nonallada was in tears for the success of the project, “I’m so very overwhelmed by the city government of Bago for recognizing my project and considers me as a modern hero” (with inputs from Ritcheal Z. Lambating of the CBA Council, USLS).

CCW-Malvar Squad Launched In Bacolod

Atty. Jose Malvar Villegas Jr. , Founder/President/Chairman of Crime Watch (CCW), and John J. Chiong, Founder/President of CCW-Kasanag Foundation Inc., addressing media practitioners during the launching of the CCW-Malvar Squad Volunteers Against Illegal Drugs and Criminality on June 9, 2016 at East View Hotel, Bacolod City The CCW-Malvar Squad Volunteers Against Illegal Drugs and Criminality was launched by the Citizens Crime Watch (CCW) under its Founder/President/Chairman Atty. Jose Malvar Villegas Jr. and the CCW-Kasanag Foundation Inc. under its Founder/President John J. Chiong during a press conference on June 9, 2016 at East View Hotel, Bacolod City with the project name “If they fight back, kill the drug lords, kill the pushers/” The CCW-Malvar Squad Volunteers was named after the grandfather of Atty. Villegas, Philippine Gen. Miguel C. Malvar (1865-1911), who assumed command of the Philippine revolutionary forces during the Philippine–American War following the surrender of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo to the Americans in 1901. Gen. Malvar commanded the Batangas Brigade, which was also known as the Malvar Brigade. Whereas the Gen. Malvar and his men fought for the liberation of the Philippines from American colonial rule, the CCW-Malvar Squad Volunteers seeks to support incoming Philippine President Rodrigo “Digong” Duterte’s campaign to eradicate the country of drugs (and gambling and the like), which destroys the grassroots foundation of Filipino society. Atty. Villegas and the CCW previously led the fight against the Pork Barrel and won the legal battle against PDAP & DAP, which were declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, leading to the prosecution and incarceration of members of Congress. When asked about the legality of “killing” a drug lord or a drug pusher, Atty. Villegas qualifies that this is in situations when the offending party fight back and puts the life of volunteers in danger. The squad will be led by retired law enforcement officers who can carry firearms. The group will also be trained to make them more effective in their jobs. Atty. Villegas remembers that when he headed the anti-crime task force during the terms of Presidents Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Benigno Simeon Aquino III, the efforts are not put to maximum use because culprits of illicit activities are given protection of those in power. He expressed optimism that in the term of President-elect Duterte, the government will be more open and impartial. However, he stressed that, CCW will remain as private individuals so that they can be more effective as a watchdog organization. Atty. Villegas pointed out that President-elect Duterte already have a list of 200 confirmed drug lords in the country. President Chiong supports the call of the CCW to put a stop to the illegal operations of criminals (JUS).

FHFI, Bacolod City Gov’t Hold Youth Forum on Heritage by: James U. Sy Jr.

Organizers, officials, lecturers, and participants at the conclusion of the Youth Forum on Heritage on May 25, 2016 in celebration of National Heritage Month 2016 at the Bacolod Pavillon Hotel, Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr. photo).

Atty. Lucille Karen Malilong-Isberto, Head, NCAA Committee on Monuments and Sites, and Fr. Harold Rentoria, Commissioner, NCCA on Submission for Cultural Heritage, with delegates from STI West Negros University during the Youth Forum on Heritage last May 25, 2016 at the Bacolod Pavillon Hotel (James U. Sy Jr. photo).

Gil Alfredo B. Severino, MA, Fr. Harold Rentoria, Commissioner, NCCA on Submission for Cultural Heritage, and Atty. Lucille Karen Malilong-Isberto, Head, NCAA Committee on Monuments and Sites with delegates from Silay City led by Councilor Neil Solomon L. Locsin James U. Sy Jr. photo).

Fr. Harold Rentoria, Commissioner, NCCA on Submission for Cultural Heritage, giving his lecture on “Understanding Filipino Cultural Heritage” during the Youth Forum on Heritage on May 25, 2016 in celebration of National Heritage Month 2016 at the Bacolod Pavillon Hotel, Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr. photo).

Organizers, officials, lecturers, and participants of the 2nd day/tour of the Youth Forum on Heritage on May 27, 2016 in celebration of National Heritage Month 2016 at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol building, Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr. photo). The Youth Forum on Heritage last May 25 and 26 2016 at the Pavillon Hotel was successfully facilitated by the Filipino Heritage Festival Inc. (FHFI) under its President Armita B. Rufino and the Bacolod City Government under Mayor Monico O. Puentevella with the support of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the ASEAN, Security Bank, and BBB Foundation, Inc. Said youth forum is in line with the annual celebration of National Heritage Month pursuant to Proclamation No. 439 signed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo last August 11, 2003, “in recognition of the need to create among the people a consciousness, respect, and pride for the legacies of Filipino cultural history and love of country. A heritage tour followed the next day. The forum emcee Mary Ann Dino, Executive Director of the BBB Foundation Inc. welcomed around 80 participants coming from the youth sector of Bacolod City and from other sectors representing government offices and other Cities of Negros Occidental. Councilor Wilson “Jun” Gamboa Jr., representing Mayor Puentevella, gave an inspirational message highlighting the meaning of cultural heritage, saying, “The key word here is ‘legacy’ which is synonymous to ‘heritage’, ‘Ang Pamana’ in Tagalog, ‘habilin’ in our very own Hiligaynon. These are beautiful words which means, ‘the need to interconnect with what was handed by the past and to be responsible in preserving them for the present and the future.’ These are our beliefs, customs, traditions, culture, arts, literature, stories and structures - the entire history of a people which is giving us a glimpse of the past so that we can decide how we are to live in the present and build a community for the future.” Resource speakers were NCCA Commissioner Fr. Harold Rentoria who spoke on “Understanding Filipino Cultural Heritage”, NCAA Committee on Monuments and Sites Head Atty. Lucille Karen Malilong-Isberto who spoke on “The Philippine Heritage Law”; and Gil Alfredo B. Severino, MA, a UP Diliman trained educator, Negros Daily Bulletin (NDB) writer and Board Director of the Negros Occidental Historical Council, Inc. (NOHCI) who spoke on “Issues and Concerns on Local Cultural Heritage.” The “power” behind the forum were Jeremy R. Chan, NCCA Project Development Officer III, Program Monitoring and Evaluation Division, Christianne Insigne, forum organizer-facilitator, FHFI, representing the Bacolod City Mayor’s Office (CMO) were Engr. Mae Cuaycong, RN, Asst. Secretary to the Mayor;Lora Maria Teresa S. Esguerra, Project Development Officer II and designated Youth Forum Coordinator; and Ronald “Boy” G. Amihan, PESO Scholarship Coordinator. The forum was covered by the Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDI) and the Negros Daily Bulletin (NDB) through columnist/feature writer James U. Sy Jr. The forum was well attended by participants from the Negros Occidental Tourism Office, Silay City delegation led by Councilor Neil Solomon L. Locsin, Manapla LGU, Victorias LGU, Iloilo City, Diocese of Bacolod City/Fr. Jovit Lemoncito, Negros Occidental Historical Commission (NOHC) represented by Executive Director Roque Hofileña, University of St. La Salle (USLS), STI West Negros University (STI WNU), Central Philippine state University (CPSU), Technological University of the Philippines–Visayas (TUP-V), La Consolacion College-Bacolod (LCC-B), and John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation (JBLCF). The following day was a tour of Bacolod’s heritage sites. NOHCI Executive Director Hofilena shared the history onsite of the Provincial Capitol complex while history mentor Severino led the tour to the San Sebastian Cathedral closely observing its architecture; then recalling the history of the Tindalo tree planted by President Manuel L. Quezon on October 19, 1938, during the inauguration of Bacolod from a municipality to a city under its first Mayor Alfredo Montelibano, Sr. A visit to the Dizon Ramos Museum along Burgos St. followed. Simple lunch was served at Ting-Ting’s sponsored by the Bacolod City Government where certificates were distributed and a closing remark was given by NCCA Commissioner Fr. Rentoria. The bus used for the Heritage Tour was courtesy of Bong-Bong’s Piaya and Barquillos Bacolod Pasalubong Center.

Nate Jasper Harder Baptized

Nate Jasper Harder with (from left) grand auntie Liezel Harder-Cabarubias, mother Angel Harder, great grandmother Nenita Harder at the conclusion of his Christening ceremony last May 8, 2016 at the Sto. Niño Parish, BBB-Galo Sts., Bacolod City (CMAS photo).

Nate Jasper Harder with his mother Angel Harder, godmothers, and godfathers at the conclusion of his Christening ceremony last May 8, 2016 at the Sto. Niño Parish, BBB-Galo Sts., Bacolod City (CMAS photo). Nate Jasper Harder, the first born son of Angel Harder, was baptized into the Roman catholic faith last May 8, 2016 at the Sto. Niño Parish, BBB-Galo Sts., Bacolod City. Aileen Harder, Liezel Harder-Cabarubias, and Nenita Harder, Nate's grandmother, grand auntie, and great grandmother respectively, were also in attendance. Godmothers and godfathers were Nicole Basa, Rhoda Fernandez, Micah Unabia, Neil Bryan Gallardo, Billy Guillen, Nove Nel Gonzaga, James Sy, and JM Villanueva.

BCC's "The Best of BSBE" Honored

The awardees with their Instructor James U. Sy Jr. and Guest speakers Ma. Cristina Barrios-Parcon and Gil Alfredo B. Severino, who were the proxy for Hon. Councilor Wilson "Jun" Gamboa Jr. at the conclusion of "The Best of BSBE" Awarding Ceremony on April 8, 2016 at the Negosyo Center, Negros Occidental Barangay Center (NOBC) bldg., Gatuslao St., Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS photo). The awardees with their Instructor James U. Sy Jr. and Guest speakers Ma. Cristina Barrios-Parcon and Gil Alfredo B. Severino, who were the proxy for Hon. Councilor Wilson "Jun" Gamboa Jr. at the conclusion of "The Best of BSBE" Awarding Ceremony on April 8, 2016 at the Negosyo Center, Negros Occidental Barangay Center (NOBC) bldg., Gatuslao St., Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS photo). A total of 60 top performing 2nd to 4th year students of the BS Business Education (BSBE) Dept. of the Bacolod City College (BCC) was recognized by their instructor for their dedication and good study habits during "The Best of BSBE" Awarding Ceremony on April 8, 2016 at the Negosyo Center, Negros Occidental Barangay Center (NOBC) bldg., Gatuslao St., Bacolod City. Those honored achieved a grade of 96% to 100% in the subjects Entrepreneurship (Entrep), Finance 1 (Fin 1), Foreign Language 1 (Forel 1), Marketing Management 101 (MM 101), and Professional Salaesmanship (ProSales), all taught by Full Time Instructor James U. Sy Jr. for 1st and 2nd semester SY 2014-2015 and 1st semester SY 2015-2016. Guest speakers for the event were Ma. Cristina Barrios-Parcon, Philippine Normal College BEED Cumlaude and Local Legislative Staff, Sangguniang Panglungsod-Bacolod City, who was the proxy for Hon. Councilor Wilson "Jun" C. Gamboa Jr., and Gil Alfredo B. Severino, online English instructor and Negros Daily Bulletin (NDB) feature writer. Those who received their certificates of recognition in person were as follow: 96%. Joyce Esperon (ProSales), Joan Getgano (Forel 1), Mary Mae Lacsina (Forel 1), Kathlyn Joy D. Oderis (Forel 1), Nadia Mae S. Perolino (MM 101), Michelle Rodrigo (MM 101), June Kathleen G. Sama (Forel 1), Nelly Sausa (MM 101), Mary Grace Tabo-Tabo (ProSales), John Paul N. Togle (Entrep), and Amavil Villasan (Fin 1). 97%. Rhea Mae K. Aragon (Forel 1), Gersyl Primavera (Forel 1), Keith Anthony G. Tabligan (MM 101), and Richard Zamora (Forel 1). 98%. Maybelle C. Barcenas (Forel 1), Marilou T. Inson (Entrep), Cresile Lozano (MM 101), Angel Melgar (Forel 1), and Grace Puncion (Entrep). 99%. Teresa Joy Flestado (MM 101 and ProSales), Cresile Lozano (ProSales), Joanne Camille T. Siacon (ProSales), and Arleene L. Tortogo (MM 101). 100%. Junel F. Pecha (Entrep), Paula Grace Porras (Entrep), Joedeña Samillano (Fin 1), Joanne Camille T. Siacon (MM 101, Kimberly Solinap (Fin 1), Keith Anthony G. Tabligan (Forel 1), and Amavil Villasan (Entrep). Those recognized but were not able to attend: 96%. Yolly Ann Bas and Rosalie Camarig (Forel 1), Alyssa B. Despojo (ProSales), Maricel B. Ilustrisimo (MM 101), Kristine Joy B. Larida (Forel 1), Angel Mae Lizades, and Chaterine R. Magbanua (Forel 1), Edelyn I. Mayordomo (MM 101), Mary Criz Dianne Salado-Nasis and Aileen Pabuaya (Forel 1), and Mary Joy Tabo-Tabo and Mark Allain A. Tizon (MM 101). 97%. Analisa M. Carting and Mary Hope P. Dionaldo (MM 101). Aliza Ejercito (Forel 1), Marimar Landong (MM 101). Judy Ann B. Monge, Jaycil Pino, Shinky J. Porsuelo, and April Joy Seiton (Forel 1). 98%. Lezette Amaña (Fin 1), Charie Cañas (MM 101 and ProSales), Mary Hope P. Dionaldo, Jennes Estuche, and Reggie C. Franco (Forel 1). 99%. Mariam Grace Aguilar, Jevy Bailes, Luzvimin Banihit, and Helen Fajardo (Forel 1), and James Kelly Rembulat and Jozhen Zamora (MM 101). 100%. Rema Bangcaya, Reggie C. Franco, and Jahzel Joy H. Garcia (MM 101), and Lourdes Garzon (Entrep). Double awardees for the event were Cañas, Dionaldo, Flestado, Franco, Lozano, Siacon, Tabligan, and Villasan. The BSBE Dept., under the coordinatorship of Felipe R. Chin Jr., CPA, MBA, produced 8 Cumlaudes during this year's Graduation Rites of the Bacolod City College (BCC), 6 of which were among those honored in "The Best of BSBE." The 8 Cumlaudes from the BSBE Dept. are Nonilyn S. Estocado, Teresa Flestado, Cresile Lozano (Top 2), Edelyn I. Mayordomo, Flaviano Pasigna, Joanne Camille T. Siacon, Mark Allain A. Tizon, and Arleene L. Tortogo.

Banking & Credit Seminar Held

Former banker and NDB feature writer James U. Sy Jr. with BSBE freshmen students from four sections of the Bacolod City College (BCC) who attended the “Banking & Credit Seminar for Entrepreneurs and Marketers” last April 4, 2016 at the Negosyo Center, Negros Occidental Barangay Center (NOBC) building, Gatuslao St., Bacolod City. A total of 44 BSBE freshmen students from four sections of the Bacolod City College (BCC) attended the free 4-hour “Banking & Credit Seminar for Entrepreneurs and Marketers” last April 4, 2016 at the Negosyo Center, Negros Occidental Barangay Center (NOBC) building, Gatuslao St., Bacolod City. The seminar was conducted by James U. Sy Jr., a former East West Banker and Prime Savings Banker as well as a former Accounts Officer at First Provincial Finance Corporation (FPFC). The seminar covered the definition and history of banking, the Philippine financial system, its structure, and its role in the economy, classification of banks, bank products, all aspects of the credit process, classifications of loans, laws pertaining to financial transactions, and scams and fraud in financial transactions. Sections that attended the seminar include MM 1A, MM 1B, Entrep 1C, and Entrep 1D.