Bandilyo Abaknon

Capul Church Now A National Treasure

2011-08-09T18:35:00.000-07:00

The Historical Marker

August 5, 2011. After quite a long wait, Capul's centuries-old church has finally received the recognition and honor it truly deserves. It is now placed as among the country's historical and cultural treasures - a jewel that has to be preserved as a legacy to future generations. It also formalizes our claim that indeed, Capul is one of the country's older and history-rich communities in the Philippines.

It is hoped that with this designation, it will generate more support from the government and all other sources for its upkeep. And for the Capulenos, this will have to inspire us to invite more visitors to the island, so that they may see this quaint and unassuming beauty that has long mesmerized us.

Kudos to all those who worked hard for the realization of this dream.

Photos from Mr. Jed Tan Saluib

Beachfront Property For Sale

2011-06-22T20:16:00.000-07:00

For those who want to enjoy the sea breeze, this property located in Sitio Danao is currently for sale.
Just call Edwin Montopar at 09217322595 OR 09053381834 for the details!

CAISAA Grand Alumni Homecoming 2011: Postscript

2011-05-01T00:32:00.000-07:00

Administrator's Notes:

At the outset let me say: it was one of the most fun-filled homecomings I have attended (although I wasn't there in 2001, 2005 and 2008). I heard many others sharing the same opinion. Kudos therefore to those who exerted a lot of effort in organizing the event, particularly CAISAA President Rommel Enecillo who personally devoted time and effort for the preparations.

Clearly however, it was not perfect. And since we will surely have more homecomings to come, it is just but right to evaluate the event and make adjustments wherever warranted. Let me share my two-cents worth:

I. Timing

Three days is clearly too long, if we consider that most of the alumni are working people. Scheduling it away from the Holy Week celebration is also ill-timed, as they will be torn between going home for the alumni event or the Holy Week. Suggestion: Make the timing standard. Schedule it always on Easter Sunday and the Monday next. That will allow people to schedule their absences early on and all they need to do is extend their Holy Week vacation.

II. Programming

We have three years to plan a grand homecoming so there is no excuse for sloppy scheduling of activities. People spend time, money and effort going home so the returns must be maximized.

For Day One, before the parade starts, representatives of all the batches must first be gathered, to orient them of what to expect for the two days. Tasks and responsibilities should be spelled-out there and specific people will be made accountable for specific activities.

If there has to be a celebration of the mass, all participants must be present. If it has to be done in church, then the alumni must first be assembled there and the parade may start from the municipal plaza to simulate a "ruluwaay".

At the end of the parade, all batches will have to be called on-stage for recognition. There has to be a manner of doing this without consuming much time (if it is the worry).

Homecoming Day 2: A very silent CAIS

Daytime was dead in the recent homecoming. What happened to the scheduled activities? Scheduling events by groups does not draw commitment from batches. They will only be interested in their individual honor. What could be done is to schedule physical games for the latest ten batches. The older batches have had their chance. Ten competing teams for say, basketball, can be handled as that that has been done before. Game periods may be reduced in the elimination rounds and just use full regulation time during the final matches.

Less stressful games can be scheduled for the senior batches.

The soccer game which was witnessed by only a few spectators.

III. Election of Officers and Report of Accomplishments

A general homecoming is the only time the entire alumni are gathered. There is no better time than that to secure their mandate for their leaders, whether or not there are by-laws prescribing it.

The event should also be used to apprise the Alumni of the activities and accomplishments of the Association. A report must be circulated detailing those including its financial standing.

CAISAA Representatives in a courtesy call to Mayor Isidro Bandal.

IV. Fund Raising

If the plans for projects are clearly drawn and presented at the beginning of the event, alumni will surely dig deep into their pockets to contribute. But this has to be done with a little finesse – not a through a throng of partners dancing kuratsa simultaneously. There were color groupings during the event so the dancing could have been segregated by colors. And the “gala” per batch should have been announced in recognition of their contributions. If the issue is that some miniscule amounts could embarrass some batches, then the top groups may only be declared.

IV. Legacy

Every homecoming must leave something worthwhile to the community. While we all have fun, we must endeavor to come up with projects that will bear fruition in the coming years. That way, more memories will be nurtured and these are not limited to the fun during the dancing, playing and drinking. Tree planting is an example.

I am sure there are more suggestions that will crop up, so I will park my pen. Let’s discuss and make the future homecomings more fun, memorable and worthwhile.

Capul Central I Graduation Exercises

2011-04-28T20:13:00.000-07:00

April 6 was red-letter day for the students, parents and teachers of Capul Central I as the graduation ceremonies for SY 2010-2011 was held. Despite the scorching heat, everyone flashed sweet smiles as each of them savored that one proud moment in the young lives of the graduates.

Proudest in the lot are the following Honor Pupils:

1st Honor - Kendra Maxine M. Gasid
2nd Honor - Paula Marie S. Montopar
1st Hon. Mention - Elisha Shammah O. Rebong
2nd Hon. Mention - Cristine M. Dejoide
3rd Hon. Mention - Marchelle Nica D. Saluib
4th Hon. Mention - Floriebelle O. Montopar
5th Hon. Mention - Junibelle M. Calamay
6th Hon. Mention - Faye M. Gaco
1st Achiever - Faye M. Gaco
2nd Achiever - Juffel Jule B. Congzon
3rd Achiever - Ian Harvey B. Congzon

Valedictorian Kendra Maxine M. Gasid with proud parents Mr. & Mrs. Val Gasid

The happy parents of the honor pupils

Salutatorian Paula Marie S. Montopar with beaming parents Mr. & Mrs. Elon Montopar

The guest speaker for the commencement exercises was Mrs. Pamela Gaco-Bayabay.

Katig Writers Meet Abaknon Writers

2011-04-25T18:28:00.000-07:00

The Katig Writers Network of Region 8 recently gathered aspiring Abaknon writers thru an activity dubbed as "Writers Consultation and Planning Activity".

The activity was spearheaded by Mr. Phil Harold L. Mercurio, NCCA-NCLA Regional Coordinator for Eastern Visayas. The purpose of said activity was to organize writers groups in Region 8 (specifically in Capul), promote arts and culture in Eastern Visayas, and build cooperation and understanding among the people in Region 8.

Courtesy call at the residence of Mayor Bandal in Capul, Northern Samar

The new set of Abaknon Literary Arts Guild (ALAG) Writers for 2011

April 9, 2011 at the Municipal Building of Capul during the ALAG Writers Consulation and Planning Activity conducted by Katig Writers

Dr. Francisco Datar ( center), a UP Diliman-based anthropologist, together with Katig Writers of Region 8

With Mrs. Nilda Andarino, the host for the visiting writers.

CAIS Holds 37th Graduation Rites

2011-04-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

The Capul Agricultural and Industrial School, on April 7, 2011, held the graduation rites for Batch 2011. And from a group of 181 graduates, the following were on the honor roll:

Valedictorian - Faith Jirah O. Rebong
Salutatorian - Larrielyn S. Pornelos
First Hon. Mention - Mary Ann G. Cabacang
Second Hon. Mention - Kim Jay M. Bulan
Third Hon. Mention - Hezel C. Bulan
With Honors: Juvin T. Tortoles
                     Robin O. Banagbanag
                     Charlotte Kaye A. Panis
                     Cestle Rose P. Catucod
                     Floriza P. Agote

This year's keynote speaker was Atty. Reo S. Andarino (please click link for his profile), Landbank's Chief Representative to Japan, who taught the graduates how to "dance to the tune of life".

CAIS Principal Domingo Castillo confirmed the graduates.

Mrs. Mercy Gaco, who will be retiring in June, hosted the event.

Announcement: CCES I Alumni Get-Together

2011-04-12T01:14:00.000-07:00

The Capul Central Elementary School (now with a I, for those who are not yet aware) announces the holding of an Alumni Get-Together on July 29, 2011 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Under the leadership of Principal Anecita Catucod, the event is in response to the clamor of CCES alumni who have been yearning to walk through memory lane again with the rest of their schoolmates. It aims to gather the bountiful produce the school has had and document its history - which is now in danger of being forgotten.

The July 29 gathering will be a prelude to the actual Grand Alumni Homecoming which will be decided on by the Steering Committee to be organized on the said date. A draft by-laws will be submitted to the body for discussion and consideration.

Registration will be done in designated rooms, which divides the graduates by the decade of graduation. Parlor games designed to recall the carefree childhood days will be held, capped by a bingo bonanza in the afternoon.

Lunch will be potluck, also in the respective decade rooms.

See you there!

Gov. Paul Daza Graces CSC Basketball Tourney

2011-03-31T05:58:00.000-07:00

Gov. Paul Daza surprised Abaknons in Marikina last Sunday as he joined the Capul Sunday Club in a basketball exhibition game. Showing off his wares as a competent basketball player - he ran, hustled and scored. Joining him were Judge Freddie Ampuan, Col. Carpio (PNP) of Catarman and former PBA player Joey Mente.

International Mother Language and Parents' Day

2011-03-01T04:41:00.000-08:00

February 21, 2011 – This day marked Capul’s 1st observance of the International Mother Language Day, a celebration directed by the Department of Education on Feb 21, 1999. This was intended to encourage students to embrace their native tongue as springboard to basic education.

The activity was held simultaneously with the annual celebration of Parents’ Day. As result, parents performed, together with the pupils, several acts in Inabaknon – a “surusurumaton” by Mrs. Eden Andarino, “kanta Inabaknon” from Mr. Chenito Marzol, a “siday” or verse choir by Grade 3 pupils. The program was done purely in Inabaknon.

Mrs. Milen Esteria was the event’s Guest Speaker. The affair was graced by the new principal of CCES I, Mrs. Anecita Catucod, the District Supervisor, Mrs. Anecita Marzol and the officers of the GPTA headed by Dr. Vicente Catucod.

For the Parents’ Day portion, parlor games for teachers (including practice teachers), parents and pupils. There was also a Mother and Child showdown which was won by the pairs of Mrs. Jean Gasid and Bebet Mente. Mrs. Mercy Gaco took charge of the games.

A benefit dance was later held in the evening.

New Abaknon Nurses

2011-02-20T19:35:00.000-08:00

With the release of the results of the December 2010 National Licensure Examination for Nurses, Abaknons again got a fair share of beaming passers. They belong to the 29,711 who made it from a batch of 84,287. The passing rate of 35.25% was one of the lowest in recent years.

Here are our new source of pride - the new Abaknon nurses:

AYNRAND VICTOR MANAOG TIRAZONA

Parents: Dr. & Dra. Tony Tirazona (nee Amalia Manaog)

XENIA CHARMAINE VICARIO SALUIB

Parents: Mr. & Mrs. Elmer Saluib (nee Lil Vicario)

KAREN CABATINGAN GALOSMO

Parents: Mr. & Mrs. Oddog Galosmo (Nee Linda Cabatingan)

ARVIN DUGAN CATUCOD

Parents: Dr. & Mrs. Vicente Catucod (Nee Aniceta Dugan)

and

ETHEL PASCO MAGDARAOG

CONGRATULATIONS!

Tangnga's Annual Street Bash

2011-02-17T14:26:00.000-08:00

(Note: Apologies. This was supposed to be posted weeks ago.)

What started out as a street party cum karaoke session in Tangnga one New Year's Day seven years ago has became a traditional event. It has become a moment of thanksgiving for the neighborhood and an occasion to revel and enjoy each others' company. It has become a fiesta of sorts - with the celebration of the Mass and with hermanas and hermanos to boot. For this year, the sponsors were the families of PO3 & Mrs. Nonong Saluib Mr. Richie Enecillo, RN and Mr. Mervin Cabacang.

Sto.Nino de Capul

2011-02-14T03:02:00.000-08:00

Delayed post on the celebration of the Sto. Nino Feast in Capul last January.

Happy Valentine's Day...

2011-02-13T19:29:00.000-08:00

..... si intero Abaknon si bug-os kalibutan!

Announcement: Batch '86

2011-02-09T18:11:00.000-08:00

To All members of CAIS Class of 1986 (this year's silver jubilarians), you are enjoined to attend a meeting on Saturday, Feb. 12, 2011 at Nary's Resto in Quezon City. Be there on or before 5 p.m.. For more details, please call Salvador Cabacang at 09179970263.

Pasidungog 2010

2011-01-09T06:36:00.000-08:00

This is a delayed post.

But since there's no denying the importance of the activity, a late post still meets the requirement.

This was the day when teachers who for years have molded the minds of the young, had to pass the baton and retire. Pasidungog simply means giving them the honor they truly deserve.

Gift-giving Caroling 2010

2010-12-30T22:16:00.000-08:00

The gift-giving caroling in Capul was held last Dec. 23. In the absence of Atty. Andarino, the officials of Brgy. 4, led by Chairman Zito Tan and Kgd. Eden Andarino, took charge of the effort to distribute goods and cash to selected beneficiaries in the Poblacion area. Those who shared their voices in giving Christmas cheers were Ernie Adversario, Marlo Cabatingan, Elmer Guardiano, Louie Andarino, Lenlen Banagbanag, Josephine Baguipo, Rosemarie Castillo, Gemma Abayon and other volunteers. The Tangnga kids on the other hand took turns driving the pedicab that carried the goods.

To all those who supported the project, mahaya salamat si kaam dimuan.

Neroh and Apples' Engagement Party

2010-12-26T17:58:00.000-08:00

December 23 was the day when Neroh Adal and Apple Castillo decided to tell the public of their plan to be joined together in matrimony. And they have set June 2011 as the culmination of the path they have traveled as lovers and tread a new trail as husband and wife.

Celebrations for the Calamays

2010-12-26T06:44:00.000-08:00

December hosts many milestones for the family of Mr. & Mrs. Lucio Calamay. To get maximum attendance, the celebrations were "synchronized" (as Muno Lucio puts it) on December 19 (which incidentally was Sally's birthday).

Christmas Hymns from CAIS

2010-12-26T06:40:00.000-08:00

CAIS Teachers and Employees visited homes of Abaknons in the Metro Manila area to sing Christmas carols (mostly in Inabaknon). The proceeds were meant for choir paraphernalia and other needs of the Capul Parish Church.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T06:40:00.000-08:00

Si intero Abaknon, kunta maging malipayon i Pasko ta kam dimuan!

Basketball Winners!

2010-12-21T19:40:00.000-08:00

ASL 4^TH SEASON BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

OCTOBER 31 – DECEMBER 18, 2010

RESULTS:

TEENS / KIDS

CHAMPION : WARRIOR KIDS

1^ST RUNNER-UP : AC MILES KIDS

MYTHICAL FIVE

Aljun Odtujan (Warrior Kids) – MVP

Aljon Mendoza (Warrior Kids)

Lito Paulito (Warrior Kids)

Jophel Geron (AC Miles Kids)

Jonathan Banagbanag (AC Miles Kids)

SUPER SENIOR

CHAMPION : ABAKNON ALLIANCE

1^ST RUNNER-UP : EIGHTY SEVEN

2^ND RUNNER-UP: BATCH ’86 AND AC MILES

MYTHICAL FIVE

Hermes Baguipo (Abaknon Alliance) – MVP

Rommel Recluta (Abaknon Alliance)

Ango Mente (Abaknon Alliance)

Eduardo Enecillo ( EIGHTY SEVEN)

Antolin Oliverio ( EIGHTY SEVEN)

SENIOR

CHAMPION : JUBANG “POGUIBA?”

1^ST RUNNER-UP : LANDUSAN “BARAKO”

2^ND RUNNER-UP: OSON “SAN RAFAEL”

MYTHICAL FIVE

Richard Tenorio (POGUIBA?) - MVP

Arjay Gordo (POGUIBA?)

Luis Magloyuan (POGUIBA?)

Erwin Hechanova (BARAKO)

Wendy Flores (BARAKO)

Birthday: Jerald Catucod

2010-12-19T19:31:00.000-08:00

It was one happy birthday indeed!

All the ingredients for a great party were there: presence of family and friends, lots of good food, endless booze and carefree singing and dancing! Ribhong pa ba!

Thanks for the great night, Jerald! We hope you enjoyed your day.

Just Grab 'Em Pics II

2010-12-14T21:48:00.000-08:00

These folks caught the eye of the administrator's roaming camera. The subjects may just grab their respective pics.

Just Grab 'Em Pics I

2010-12-14T07:10:00.000-08:00

These folks caught the eye of the administrator's roaming camera. The subjects may just grab their respective pics.

New Abaknon ECEs

2010-12-02T06:34:00.000-08:00

Abaknons are on a roll. Two just passed the recent Electronics and Communications Engineering licensure examinations - arguably one of the hardest in recent years.

Drum roll please for:

1. Engr. Hans Christian Manalo Calamay (son of Alvin and Yolly Calamay)

2. Engr.Joevic Odtujan Manalo (son of Julie and Leny Manalo)

As always, the success of an Abaknon brings pride to all other Abaknons. Congratulations!

Delayed Post: Father Irinco's Welcome

2010-11-28T18:23:00.000-08:00

(I thought these pics have been posted already. Palanat ta na gad hamok)

There is no doubt that Abaknons are a religious lot. Fact is, most of the communal activities we have are centered on religious beliefs. From bunyag to labbong, we never fail to give homage to the faith we were initiated into.

Congruently, we hold our religious leaders in high regard. The priests who were assigned to the St. Ignatius Parish have always been very welcome and they have been very influential in shaping not just religious norms but even social interaction.

Recently, a new Parish Priest was assigned to Capul - Fr. Toby Irinco. If only to prove the intensity of the people's excitement and devotion to the faith, allow us to show you these pics.

(The last pic shows the water spout, tornado if you please, that showed up while the welcome was underway - adding buzz to an already fired-up scene.)

Congratulations!

2010-11-24T14:53:00.000-08:00

Aivan Kier C. Salazar hurdled the recent Civil Engineering Licensure Examinations. A consistent honor student during his grade school and high school days (CAIS Batch 2005), Ivan once again proved the Abaknons' well-recognized academic competence. He graduated from the University of Eastern Philippines.

Congratulations are in order for his parents - Mr. & Mrs. Lito Salazar (nee Leonila Cula).

Job well done, Ivan!

A Tribute To The Departed

2010-11-16T17:16:00.000-08:00

Better late than never.

Here are some pics taken during this year's commemoration of All Souls' Day in Capul. As tradition dictated, people trooped to the cemetery to "spend time" with their departed loved ones - as masses and prayers were said for their eternal rest. At night, people continued communing with the dead, as they stayed in the cemetery until the wee hours of the night. And as always, unlike celebrations in other areas, no untoward incident was recorded.

Teenage Basketball: JP Cup

2010-11-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

Regardless of what people say about basketball not being suited to Asian capabilities (as against the taller races) there's really no telling Filipinos from enjoying and mastering the game. That's why there are basketball courts, in whatever form, in all the nooks and crannies of the archipelago.

Capulenos of course are not exempted. Truth is, the passion for basketball seemed to have even increased among the current crop of youth.

To tap this continuing fascination with the game, Mr. Pepe Manaog decided to launch a basketball tournament for teenagers of Brgy. 2. Dubbed JP Cup, the energetic dribblers got the chance to show off their stuff and there's no denying that Capulenos are no push-overs among their peers.

Featured here are pics during the championship game between the Blue and White teams.

the champions

the runners-up

the game officials

Feast of del Rosario: Reception

2010-11-03T22:41:00.000-07:00

Feast of del Rosario 2010

2010-10-28T19:38:00.000-07:00

One highly anticipated religious feast - especially among the ladies of Capul, is the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary or Del Rosario. This is when they get to dress-up in multi-colored gowns as the procession of the Lady goes around town.

According to Wikipedia "In 1571 Pope Pius V instituted "Our Lady of Victory" as an annual feast to commemorate the victory of Lepanto. The victory was attributed to the Blessed Virgin Mary, as a rosary procession had been offered on that day in St. Peter's Square in Rome for the success of the mission of the Holy League to hold back Muslim forces from overrunning Western Europe. In 1573, Pope Gregory XIII changed the title of this feast-day to "Feast of the Holy Rosary". This feast was extended by Pope Clement XII to the whole of the Latin Rite, inserting it into the Roman Catholic calendar of saints in 1716, and assigning it to the first Sunday in October. Pope Pius X changed the date to 7 October in 1913, as part of his effort to restore celebration of the liturgy of the Sundays.

The Hermana Mayor

(photos of the reception to follow)

Pahabol Teachers' Day Pics

2010-10-28T18:03:00.000-07:00

It turned out that these pics were not lost or deleted afterall. Kariman si mga kiyom-kiyom kun gae kinakulawan. So here goes ..

Winning Barangay Captains

2010-10-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

Here's a list of the winners of yesterday's barangay elections - for the post of Barangay Chairperson:

Brgy 1 - Noe Hechanova
Brgy 2 - Roberto "Berting" Magdaraog
Brgy 3 - Sitoy Blasquillo
Brgy 4 -   Zeto Tan
Brgy 5 -   Bebora Catucod
San Luis - Romy Guardiano
Aguin -   - Elisa Castillo
Landusan - Edna Magdaraog
Sawang -   Josie Tan
Sagaosawan - Rolito Cula
Jubang - Elena Mente
Oson - Salve Garais

Congratulations to all the winners. We wish you all the strength and political will to be able to fulfill the hopes and expectations of the Capuleño electorate. Cheers!

Baguio Tour with Salve & Juling

2010-10-24T18:12:00.000-07:00

Whenever Abaknons visit a place, anywhere in the Philippines or abroad, it is customary for us to look for fellow Abaknons - who will just be too happy to play hosts to the visitors. The meet-ups thus turn out to be great reunions, making the bonds among Abaknons even stronger.

Should anyone gets to Baguio these days, among those Abaknons could call is Salve Bandal-Servito and Juling Cula. These guys are simply amazing as friends and yes, tour guides. :-)

(Note: The family of Col. Maly Cula and Analyn Manaog is also in Baguio. We missed them during the visit, but we hope see them there some other time.)

CSC Tourney Ends; Results

2010-10-20T16:53:00.000-07:00

After weeks of intense skirmishes, the 2nd CSC Basketball Tournament ended last Sunday. The results are as follows:

Super-Senior
Champion: White Team (Judge Ampuan)
def. Red Team (Siloy Cascayan) 2-0

3rd Place : Green Team (Anthony Ampuan)
def. Yellow Team (Roger Magdaraog) 2-0

Senior
Champion: White w/ Blue Team (Randy Manaog)
def. Yellow Team (Don Magloyuan) 2-1

3rd Place: White w/ Red Team (Radji Magloyuan)
def. Black Team (Betot Esquillo ) 2-1

Kids/Teens
Champion: Yellow Team (Keith/Abiel) def. Blue Team (Rowen Magdaraog) 2-1

World Teachers' Day 2010: The Capul Celebration Part 2

2010-10-14T23:07:00.000-07:00

On orders of the DepEd, Capul's teaching corps trooped to the CAIS grounds on October 5, to grab the limelight and celebrate World Teachers' Day. The tribute program started at 10:05 a.m. - the specific time designated for entire country's educators to converge.

With the theme "My Teacher, My Hero" students and pupils took turns presenting commendations, awarding certificates of recognition and donning garlands to their beloved teachers.

Mr. Jethro Magdaraog was invited as the guest speaker, while Mrs. Anecita Marzol and Mr. Domingo Castillo gave words of testimony.

Officers of Parents-Teachers Associations were also there to participate in the festivities.

World Teachers' Day 2010: The Capul Celebration Part 1

2010-10-12T17:40:00.000-07:00

As tribute to the mentors who shaped our minds, here's a poem that gives them proper credit ...

PLEASE TEACH ME

(Author Unknown)

Please teach me everything I’ll need,

Teach me to calculate and speak,

Teach me to stop being so weak:

Teach me to think and write and read.

‘Cause there isn’t much I’ll learn alone,

and my mind is hungry for your food,

the food for thought that makes us good

and without which we’re dry as stone.

Teach me to be just like yourself,

The person I so much admire,

The one whose intellectual fire

I wish I’ll have one day myself.

Take a seat and start to teach,

Let me thus the wonders see

Of this world where I will be

A bit better thanks to each

Of the teachers that I had,

and thanks to yourself, the one

who’s made me sure that I can,

that in fact, I’m not that bad

as a student. I’ll succeed.

You’re the one who made me start

To realize that it’s an art

To develop the great seed

That you planted in my young brain.

I’ll water that seed all the time

With your great teaching, and with time

You’ll see your efforts were not in vain.

(Just click the pics to enlarge)

Panawagan Para Si Pagka-Aradda

2010-10-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

In just a few more days, tiborotosay na lat kitam - this time for the Barangay and SK elections. It is hoped that this exercise will become peaceful, especially in Capul where the political heat remains frustratingly intense despite the exercise being supposedly apolitical.

But this post is not about Capul. Parte to si mga Abaknon gawas na si isla ta kam nga ag-desider paghuwang si ban-o si panerbisyo.

One example is Marikina - arguably the place where you see the biggest number of Abaknons outside of Capul. Siguro, i mga Abaknon i pinakamahaya grupo si Marikina nga tikang hamok si adda bungto. But despite that number, Abaknons are not represented in the community leadership.

Now therefore is the chance for us to unite and vote as one - and get ourselves a voice. And to this challenge we hope everyone rises.

Mr. Pernel Baguipo is now running for Barangay Kagawad in his community in Marikina. Si kalabbatan na si Capuleño anan lugar, imposible nga gae iya andaog. Kinahanglan hamok ag aradda i mga Abaknon, ngan himo na misyon si balang addangan si kita nga amotos si iya ngan angala at least duwa additional botos tikang si main Abaknon. Inanto na i panahon pagpakulaw si kusog ta kam.

Pareho liwat dapat i hinimo ta kam para si ditangnga Abaknon nga agbawa na i aron na si bungto ta si lain lugar. I balita nga kandidato gyapon kas Bungkal, Eddie "Abak" and Felix Devara ari Tondo. Iya liwat kuno Tiyoy Magdaraog ari Cavite, Pati Ely Saluib and Narsing Ombrog ari Parola. Buruligan ta kam nga an gawas mga iya.

Note: For the details parte sito mga magkandidato Abaknon si lain-lain lugar, alayun pagsumat ato basi a-adjust to post. Salamat.

Scouting in Capul: Part III

2010-10-07T18:35:00.000-07:00

One highly anticipated part of every scouting encampment is the torch parade and campfire. This is where the scouts get to display their various talents, now through a cultural presentation (it used to be limited to the presentation of the troops' song, yell and stunt/skit). For this year, the theme is "Ganito Kami Noon, Ganito Kami Ngayon".

From accounts received, this year's encampment was a huge a success. Kudos to the Executive Directors of the Event: Mrs. Anecita Marzol, Mr. Domingo Castillo, Mrs. Emma Parina and Mrs. Madrona Largo. The same goes of course to all the teachers, students/pupils, parents and other members of the community who fully supported the worthwhile activity.

Scouting in Capul: Part II

2010-10-03T18:43:00.000-07:00

Dont these pics just make you smile? Don't they evoke special memories of the days when we all had pure fun?

These things make scouting specially wonderful?

..... the "ruruma-rumaay" ....

... the "surugnaay and paratahakay" ...

the scouting lectures ..

.... and the competitive fancy drills ...

It's nice to know that after all these years, the scouting ideals live on as generations pass.

Scouting in Capul: Part I

2010-09-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

One of the best memories of our childhood were of the fun and learning we had during scouting events. In fact, these memories set us apart from those who studied in the cities, as the scouting we had were of the type that train people to be independent, resourceful and brothers (sisters) to all. Just talk of scouting and we will, in chorus, chatter about building elaborate tents, doing fancy drills, compete in flag signalling and fire-making contests, and of course - the showcasing of the respective songs, yells and stunts. And not to be forgotten are the friendships we built by the mingling of the scouts from the barrios and those from the poblacion.

It thus is commendable that the scouting spirit lives on among our current crop of kids. It is refreshing to once again see kids beam excited faces as they parade in their scout uniforms. It is heartwarming to note that the tradition of bonding and learning continues to pass to generations next. And for us who have gone through the same phase, we share the same joy as we reminisce the good times we had - knowing that the new breed of scouts will be wallowing in the same fun while learning skills that could come handy in their mature lives.

These pics were taken during the parade en route to the opening of the Capul District Encampment at the CAIS Grounds last September 23 to 25, 2010. More pics to come.

Photos by Louie Andarino

CSC Tourney Updated Standings

2010-09-13T23:56:00.000-07:00

SENIOR W L P         SUPER SENIOR W L P       KIDS / TEENS W L P

Yellow (Don) 2 1 5      Red (Siloy) 2 1 5                  Yellow (Keith) 2 0 4
Red (Radji) 2 1 5         White (Marlon) 2 1 4       White (MatMat) 1 1 3
Blue (Randy) 2 1 5      Yellow (Bigboy) 1 2 4          Blue (Rowen) 0 2 2
Black (Betot) 0 3 3      Green(Anthony/CA) 1 2 3

Classification Rule in breaking the tie:

SENIOR
Red       44      Yellow 39
Blue      82       Red 78
Yellow 77        Blue 70

Team Game Ave. Goal Diff.

PS PA

Yellow 116 / 114 1.017544
Red    122 / 121 1.008264
Blue   152 / 155 0.980645

PS – Points Scored (Sum of the scores played by the team)
PA - Points Against (Sum of the scores played by the opponents)
Goal Difference is equal to PS divided by PA

SCHEDULE OF GAMES

September 19, 2010 Semi – Finals (Team Numbers 1 and 2 are twice to beat)
Game starts at 10am

1st Game Senior Yellow (No. 1) vs. Black (No. 4)
2nd Game Super Senior Red (No. 1) vs. Green (No. 4)
3rd Game Kids / Teens Blue vs. White
4th Game Super Senior White (No. 2) vs. Yellow (No. 3)
5th Game Senior Red (No. 2) vs. Blue (No. 3)

And Now .... The Models

2010-09-11T20:16:00.000-07:00

In between games, while the teams are just gathering and warming-up, I took some candid and not-so-candid shots of the players and everyone else who gets captured by the roving cam. So here now are the pics of Capul's new models.. :-)

CSC Games Standings & Sked

2010-09-10T02:23:00.000-07:00

Here now are the current standings of the on-going CSC Basketball Tournament:

SENIOR W L P

Yellow (Don) 1 1 3

White (Radji) 1 1 3

Blue (Randy) 1 1 3

Black (Betot) 0 2 2

SUPER SENIOR W L P

Red (Siloy) 2 0 4

Yellow (Bigboy) 1 1 3

White (Marlon) 1 1 2

Blue (Anthony/CA) 0 2 1

KIDS / TEENS W L P

Yellow (Keith) 2 0 4

White (Mat Mat) 0 1 1

Blue (Rowen) 0 1 1

And the game schedules:

September 12, 2010

1st Game Senior Yellow vs. Blue

2nd Game Super Senior Yellow vs. Blue

3rd Game Kids / Teens White vs. Blue

4th Game Super Senior Red vs. White

5th Game Senior Black vs. White

September 19, 2010 Semi – Finals

1st Game Senior No. 1 vs. No. 4

2nd Game Super Senior No. 1 vs. No. 4

3rd Game Kids / Teens Blue vs. White

4th Game Super Senior No. 2 vs. No. 3

5th Game Senior No. 2 vs. No. 3

Finals – Best of 3

CSC Kicks-Off Inter Color Tourney

2010-09-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

All in the spirit of fun and camaraderie, the Capul Sunday Club (CSC) once again launched a basketball tournament in Marikina starting two Sundays ago. Composed of three divisions, the league allowed Abaknons of all shapes and sizes to flex worn-out muscles and sweat things out while getting the chance to bond again with long-time friends.

Headed by the indefatigable Judge Freddie Ampuan, the league has provided Abaknons an avenue to meet with friends the healthy way.

Note: The administrator is having problems posting the pics and the details of the tournament. Will post them soon.

Marlo's Definitely Got Talent!

2010-08-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

As if to prove that the island of Capul is indeed a hotbed for musicality, another Abaknon took center stage yesterday and made every Abaknon proud - by winning a province-wide talent contest.

Marlo Cabatingan won the 1st Catarman's Got Talent competition by besting 32 other contestants showcasing all types of performances. His soulful version of the classic ditty "Greatest Performance of My Life" wowed the audience and convinced the judges to hand him the win.

Marlo is the son of Marlon and Yolanda Cabatingan. He is already known as a versatile singer from his high school days in CAIS to his college days in UEP.

Below is a clip of a performance by Marlo and Jeanra in 2009.

photo from Jed Saluib

Pio Jao & Family Visit Hawaii

2010-08-13T01:49:00.000-07:00

The family of Pio and Joy Jao (kids Jefferson and Patrick) took time off from their busy schedules in Canada and frolicked in the summer sun in exotic Hawaii.

With Ms. Eurie Ampuan's family (shown here are her sons Patrick and Martin) acting as tour guides, the vacationers were able to go around the main island and visit some of the famous landmarks of Honolulu like the Pearl Harbor memorial and DOLE plantation.

But the highlight of their visit were the swimming and surfing at the world-renowned Waikiki Beach.

The pics here were taken during a luau, a traditional Hawaiian feast.

More Ms. Marangga Pics

2010-08-06T08:04:00.000-07:00

Seven young ladies competed for the Ms. Marangga Capulena crown. They were as follows:

Ms. Genevy Saluib
Ms. Vanessa Bandal
Ms. Ellean Mae Banagbanag
Ms. Zytel Ann Castillo
Ms. Nova Joy Deculawan
Ms. Eunice Calamay
Ms. Lyan Yu

After the pageant, these ladies emerged as the winners:

2nd runner up:
Ms. Nova Joy Deculawan

1st runner up:
Ms. Lyan Yu

Ms. Marangga Capulena
Ms. Ellean Mae Banagbanag

pics by Louie Andarino

Ms. Marangga and her Court

2010-08-04T18:34:00.000-07:00

Here are the pics of the part of the parade which showcased the contestants to the Ms. Marangga beauty tilt. Ms. Ellen Mae Banagbanag of CAIS won the coveted crown.

pics courtesy of Medy Cabacang, Suzette Ortego-Dante and Mylene Pelito.

Parade Pics: Fiesta 2010

2010-08-02T16:57:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the snapshots of the socio-civic parade that is a regular fare in our fiesta celebrations. As always, the center of attraction are the members of band entourage - from the shy high school teeners to the hyper-active elementary pupils. In the sidelights are the adoring parents who bask in the beauty of their children's uniforms/costumes and the teachers who try their best to control the excited banter of their wards.

These pics were courtesy of Ms. Medy Cabacang. For others who have likewise taken mementos of the 2010 fiesta, please email them to the administrator.

Honoring St. Ignatius of Loyola

2010-07-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

As we, Abaknons, celebrate our fiesta, let us not forget that amidst all the fun, the day is still in honor of our patron saint, St. Ignatius of Loyola.

Myth has it that during the time of the Moro invasions on Capul (our town was then the center of Christianity in Samar) it was Senor San Ignacio himself who defended the townfolks from the pillage. This may not seem far from the truth, as he was a soldier during his youth. But more than that, he did not only became a defender of his country, but more so his Faith.

As the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), he spent much of his life "teaching catechism to children, directing adults in the Spiritual Exercises, and working among the poor and in hospitals". As his children, we are thus expected to share his devotion to God and Country and during his feast day, the least we could do is emulate his example of sharing not just resources but the belief in the Supreme Creator.

Happy Fiesta Everyone! Viva Senor San Ignacio!

A Day To Remember

2010-07-16T06:32:00.000-07:00

We have always known that the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation started on October 20, 1944 – an event that continues to be honored and celebrated with much fanfare to date. Better known as the Leyte Landing, this episode in Philippine history is said to be in fulfillment of Gen. Douglas MacArthur’s famous promise, “I shall return”.

But we have not been told, at least officially, that Capul and the Capulenos played a strategic part of the battles that ensued - to liberate the rest of the country, particularly Manila. At that time, Japanese soldiers were already stationed in our island, and part of the clearing operations was to liberate Capul so that warships from the Pacific can enter Philippine territory through the San Bernardino Strait.

In a compilation done by Mary H. Williams of the Office of the Chief of Military History, Department of the Army, Washington D.C. in 1960, these were the events of February 19, 1945:

LUZON - In U.S. Sixth Army's XIV Corps area, intensive bombardment of Intramuros continues. With capture of Object Hill by 160th Inf, 40th Div's current mission on right flank ends. RCT 1 rejoins 6th Div. In I Corps area, 33rd Div begging limited attacks to clear Bench Mark and Question Mark Hills, NE of sison. 1st Bn of 161st Inf, 25th Div, assisted by aircraft and arty and mortar fire, begins operations against (Japanese) positions NW of Lumboy, clearing the first of a series of four. In XI Corps area, East Force suspends drive across Bataan Peninsula while 149th Inf searches for (Japanese) positions. Rock Force repels (Japanese) counterattack on Corregidor Probing of Ternate area on S coast of Manila Bay is begun.

S PHILIPPINES - In U.S. Eight Army area, X Corps begins series of amphibious operations to clear shipping route through San Bernardino Strait to port of Manila. Prov Trask Force of Americal Div lands elements at Allen, on NW tip of Samar, and 1st Bn of 182nd Inf on Capul I., at W entrance to San Bernardino Strait. The landing parties begin search for (Japanese).

Likewise, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website, in an article honoring Lieutenant Col. Harry F. Garber of the Engineering Corps says that “From February 19-22, 1945. “Lieutenant Colonel Garber served as navigator for the Detachment of the 542nd Engineer Boat and Shore Regiment participating in the North Samar, Capul, and Biri Islands operation. In this operation which extended over an area of one hundred miles of narrow, treacherous , inside straits, his skillful navigation, thorough knowledge of currents and sound judgment insured maximum efficiency in the operation of small boats and contributed materially to the success of the entire offensive.”

Clearly, Capul’s place in history must be remembered and retold to the current generation. No doubt, the youth of today is no longer aware that our forebears suffered the ravage of war, and from among our Lolos and Lolas come a generation of heroes who fought side by side with the Americans.

The last of these Abaknon veterans may have gone to rest, but the memory of their valiant efforts must not likewise fade.

As suggested by Lt. Col. Jun C. Manalo (OS) Phil Army, whose reading of the book “Philippine Campaigns” by Baclagon triggered this article, we owe it to history that February 19 be declared as Capul Liberation Day, and make this commemoration a platform for communal effort to remember and honor the Abaknons who suffered in the war and challenge the present generation to work hard to keep the peace that we inherited.

We still have time. Maybe our present Sangguniang Bayan can make the declaration and the LGU can take care of the activities. Of course, it's just a suggestion. (RSA)

(the pics were freely lifted from the net and this site claims no ownership thereof)

Saad Si Kalipayan Ko

2010-07-10T19:29:00.001-07:00

Amalako ako si pagsabot mo
Kun palangngan ako dahulo
Pagawas ngan patala si kaaw
Kay anganda panginabuhi.

Pero i kapuso ko anbilin saad
Nga kun singnga may ako apadpad
Pabwelta ako anakka i allaw
Kay si kaaw i kalipay ko.

Kunta sapasaylo mo ako
Kun minadagmitay kun kapasyada
Kun danay anirip na hamok
Kay niya lain kasibutan

Pero i saad ambanan ko
Bisan mangisog pa i kalawot
Anbalatas ako, manakay pa rambuwan
Kay balik ko kaw, kalipayan ko.

- Taga Malpal

Three Outstanding Young Abaknon Women

2010-07-07T01:35:00.000-07:00

These three ladies epitomize the ideals of the women of today - youthful, determined, passionate. That they are Abaknons make us doubly proud - and hopeful, that the generations next will be inspired to achieve just as far as they've reached.

Maribelle Flores is blessed not just with effervescent beauty but with the intellect that crowns it and a strong faith that perfects it. Now based in Jakarta as a kindergarten teacher in one of Indonesia's premier international schools, she remains passionate in a job that requires more than just patience and devotion. Now on vacation, she is touring Western Asia and Europe, starting off with a dream pilgrimage to the holy sites of Israel.

Glee Cula-Eades had a flourishing media career laid out for her, starting off as a radio personality in Tacloban City (the first Capulena to be so). But love swept her and brought her to far away but fascinating Europe. Now working for a bank in London, she treads an unfamiliar but challenging path - a new direction which will soon be a source of laurels as she comes armed with complete education from the University of the Philippines.

Jeanra Bometivo must arguably be one of the most-traveled Abaknons (if not the most). Young as she is, she has already scoured most of Europe, the United States and Asia - all courtesy of an impeccable voice that shares limelight with the members of the University of Santo Tomas singers. Doing what she loves most, her singing has given not just her but Capul and the Philippines as well, thunderous international accolades.

The three merely represent the women of Capul, who have pushed themselves to the limits in order to bring back pride to their loved ones and their humble hometown. Many have traveled the same paths before them, and expectedly, many more will be inspired to dream just as big.

Reminiscing The ACapulko Youth Days

2010-06-28T03:30:00.000-07:00

There was a time in the past when the students and young professional Abaknons in Metro Manila would easily converge - with the ACapulKo-Youth as the central bond. And those were days of unbridled fun, of great camaraderie. Activities ranged from picnics, parties, parlor and serious games, to fund raising activities for worthy causes (gift-giving carolings, donation of water pump to Central, etc.).

It's hard to believe it's been years when these pics were taken. But when we closely look at how much slimmer people then, then there's no more denying that time has indeed gone a long way (exhibit number 1: Bebe Depaz he he).

Can those days be replicated? Of course! The current crop of Manila-based youth could once again bond together and have fun while pursuing some worthy endeavors. That's a challenge that can easily be met if taken seriously.

Mr. & Mrs. Renato Castillo & Family

2010-06-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

Rene Castillo must be one Abaknon that has not been seen for some years now. If you're wondering where he is, he and his family are now based in the United Kingdom. They've established residence in Radstock, Bath (about a hundred miles west of London) for more than five years. He works as a chef in a government hospital while his wife, Aleth, works as a nurse.

For the younger readers of this site, Renato or Rene Castillo is the only son of Mr. Moling Castillo and Glory Castillo (both retired teachers of Capul). Honestly, I too haven't known him as much - all I could remember is that he was one of my Father's favorite boy scouts, and one of the more popular and talented men of his batch. From what I heard, he was among the recognized heartthrobs of his generation (a title contested only by Pio Jao hehe). The pictures here of course would confirm that the luster has not faded (bali na sito mahal bayad hehehe).

The couple has two beautiful kids, Karen (also a nurse) and Joy. The photos here featured were taken during their oathtaking as British citizens and during their recent birthday treat for Rene and Karen.

Rene confesses to missing Capul so much, more so when he was forced to walk down memory lane as he saw pictures of friends and batch-mates featured here. He just might surprise us with a visit to Capul soon.

Dreaming of Nanay's Delectable Foods

2010-06-18T18:47:00.000-07:00

by Alex M. Castillo

Alex is from San Luis and is graduate of the University of the Philippines. He now works as the HR Manager of Guaranteed Marketing Services Inc., a service provider of local and multinational companies.

Nanay’s cooking flood my childhood memories.

From the simple meals composed of rice, paksiw, vegetable dishes to fiesta food and most especially the delicacies that were oh so yummy. When I’m homesick or stressed from work, I relive the happy anticipation of my childhood waiting for Nanay’s cooking.

Nanay with the help of my older sisters prepare these yummy foods either for the family’s consumption during fiestas, Christmas or New Year celebrations or simply to be sold around the village. I learned to cook some of them also when I was old enough to prepare them.

Rice and other local crops like sweet potato, cassava, banana and others are the main ingredients of these local delicacies. The other main ingredients are usually coconut and sugar. These are simple and easy to follow recipes that are mostly sweets.

Rice to the Occasion

Rice being the staple food of Pinoys is the most versatile among the local crops. This is made into puto ligong or steamed rice cake and moron or rice rolls. Puto ligong and moron come from the mixture of ground rice, coconut milk and sugar. For puto ligong, the mixture is left to “rise” for a few hours with fresh coconut sap locally called tuwak instead of baking soda. Moron on the other hand is rolled with banana leaves as wrapper.

Other delicacies made from rice are suman, nilanggang, bibingka and salukara. Suman is made from glutinous rice, cooked, sweetened with sugar, rolled and wrapped in banana leaves like the moron. If it is not wrapped, it is called biko.

Nilanggang on the other hand is ground rice mixture with shredded young coconut meat called lukaron. Nilanggang is wrapped and steamed in cone-shaped banana leaves.

My version of bibingka is prepared similar to the nilanggang and puto ligong. The mixture of ground rice and lukaron is left to “rise” for a few hours using fresh tuwak. The sugar is added to the mixture before it is cooked. In an open fire, the pan is lined with banana leaves before the mixture is poured and then covered. The bibingka is turned over when the bottom part is done. The finished product is much like the pizza.

On the other hand, I learned how to cook the salukara from my Aunt. It is so much like the hot cake but the mixture had shredded coconut. Just like the puto ligong and bibingka, the mixture is also left to “rise” for a few hours using fresh tuwak.

One of my all time favorites is “pinilipig” or the “pinipig” made of roasted freshly harvested rice (not yet too ripe). While is still hot, the roasted rice are flattened by pounding so as to separate the husks. The aroma of the fresh pinipig would make one’s mouth water.

The pinipig are pounded once more and then sifted to make it really fine. Finally the pinipig flour is cooked in sweetened buko juice and mixed with grated lukaron.

Sweet Potato

Sweet potato, locally called kamonte is also made into moron or iniraid. The process of cooking moron kamonte is similar to the rice moron. The sweet potatoes are grated, mixed with sweetened coconut milk and rolled with banana leaves. The rolls are then boiled or steamed until done. On the other hand, iniraid is prepared like the moron kamonte however these are steamed in tin cans covered with banana leaves or in pouches made of banana leaves.

Kinagingking is made of fried sweet potato strips much like French fries. However instead of cooking the strips individually, these are “grouped” together with rice flour and water.

Molido is one of my favorites although it is labor intensive. It is made with mashed sweet potato, shredded old coconut and again, sugar. The mixture is cooked in a pan, flattened in a square molder and cut into strips. To make it “special” add some peanut as topping before the mixture cools down. It could last for a few days so it is a favorite pasalubong fare.

Versatile Cassava

Cassava is another local crop made into moron. The preparation is also similar to the rice and sweet potato moron with a twist: it has a filling made of chocolate. Cassava puto on the other hand is prepared just like the cassava moron with a filling made of sweetened shredded coconut called konserba. Cassava puto is steamed individually on homemade steamer made of tin can mounted on an earthen jar.

Jambol is fried cassava ball with konserba filling. It is usually sold by fours and skewered on broomstick. To make the jambol softer, the grated cassava is mixed with over ripe banana.

Mikin is also labor intensive because the process involves grating the cassava, sun drying (spread thinly on banana leaves) and finally frying. The finished product is very thin and crispy with the top sprinkled with brown sugar.

Banana Split!

There are different kinds of banana produced locally but the most versatile is the kandaba. The ripe (not over ripe) kandaba is cut into half, slightly coated with ground rice and then fried. This is called piniritos. Over ripe kandaba are made into baduya which are mashed, mixed with ground rice, a little water and deep fried.

All Together Now!

Cassava, sweet potato and banana are cooked together locally called kinaso-kaso or ginat-an. The ingredients are cut into bite sizes and cooked in coconut milk, sugar and a pinch of salt. To make the sauce of kinaso-kaso thicker, grate some of the cassava and make into small balls just like small jambol. The result: yummy!

Cassava and banana are also prepared into nilupak: boiled, mashed (or pounded) and sweetened with grated coconut. This is a better alternative merienda fare than just plain boiled cassava or banana. Other cooking alternative for cassva is pinakro; simple boiled in coconut milk, sugar and a pinch of salt.

Wild and Poisonous

Inabaknon delicacies are not only made from locally planted crops. There are exotic and wild crops that are also a part of my childhood food trip. One is the ba-ay a tuber harvested from a vine that grows in the wild. The tuber which is very fibrous is boiled and pound or cut into strips. It is either eaten as is or sweetened with sugar and coconut milk. This is called inunaw.

Capul was used as a battleground during World War II. Naturally, my family evacuated into safer grounds and they could not tend to their crops for fear of being caught in the crossfire.

According to Nanay, one wild tuber that helped them survived during the World War II was ad’dut. Ad’dut grows on hilly land and is similar in appearance to the commercial potatoes. The vine has thorns and it can be harvested when the leaves started to dry.

That means that the ad’dut is already mature.

Ad’dut cannot be eaten fresh and if not prepared properly can be poisonous. The tuber peeled and is sliced intro chips and undergo a “detoxification” process which would last for several days. The chips are put inside a straw sack, soaked in the water and then rinsed repeatedly over a few days. When the water is clear, that means the ad’dut is ready.

The chips are then sun dried and then cooked in coconut milk and sugar. Only experts know how to prepare ad’dut because as I have mentioned, improper preparation could be lethal.

Some of these local delicacies are also available in other parts of the Philippines but maybe prepared differently. Some are even available in supermarkets like the puto and suman. So if I crave for Nanay’s cooking, I just appropriated it to those readily available. But nothing beats the home-cooked goodness especially if it is Nanay’s.

Graduation Greetings: Leizyl M. Romero

2010-06-16T00:22:00.000-07:00

Just as education is one of the best legacies that parents can leave their children, it too can be the grandest way for any child to honor his/her parents.

That precisely was what happened when Leizyl Marzol Romero recenly graduated at the California State University East Bay, in Hayward, California.

As she beamed with pride for earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Finance, Marketing, and Economics degree, her parents - Lorna Marzol and Mike Romero were just as ecstatic. They knew fully-well that her success, while an affirmation of her sheer talent and dedication, was likewise a monument to their shared hard work to ensure that the road towards Liezyl's dreams is filled with inspiration and devoid of economic stress..

Congratulations Leizyl! And salute to your parents!

More Random Pics from Capul

2010-06-08T00:08:00.000-07:00

Manalo-Olano Reunion

2010-05-31T20:05:00.000-07:00

Summertime is the best time for family gatherings. Posted here are pics taken during the reunion of the Manalos and Olanos at Cantil.

(pics sent by joeredenbautista)

7th Lamiraw Workshop Call for Submission

2010-05-31T01:01:00.000-07:00

The National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA), the Northwest Samar State University’s (NwSSU) Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension and External Affairs, and the NwSSU Arts, Social and Cultural Affairs, in coordination with the Lamiraw Literary Arts Organization, proudly announce the 7th Lamiraw Regional Creative Writing Workshop (LRCWW) to be held on November 9-12, 2010 in Calbayog City, Samar.

Now in its seventh year, Lamiraw introduces a new addition—the Chito S. Roño Literary Awards for poetry, fiction and drama—which will be launched during the opening ceremony of the workshop. In order to boost the revival of the literature of Eastern Visayas, entries in said literary contest must be written in Waray, Sebuano or Inabaknon The contest’s sponsor, Chito S. Roño, renowned film director and a native of Calbayog, is also this year’s workshop keynote speaker. Details for the Chito S. Roño Literary Awards will be announced in June.

The panelists in the workshop are Prof. Merlie Alunan and Dr. Leoncio Deriada, professors emeritus of UP Visayas; Dr. Victor Sugbo of UPV Tacloban; Dr. David Genotiva of Eastern Visayas State University; Prof. Timothy Montes of UP Mindanao; Mr. Voltaire Oyzon of Leyte Normal University; Mr. Dante Rosales of Ibabao Arts Council of Calbayog; and Mr. Harold Mercurio of Northwest Samar State University.

Fifteen slots are open to writers who are willing to hone their craft in poetry, fiction, essay and drama. Three slots are allotted for fellows coming from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao (one slot per area), nine slots for writers residing in Samar, Leyte and Biliran, and three slots for Inabaknon writers in Capul, Northern Samar. Applicants may send entries in Waray, Sebuano, Inabaknon or English. Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao guest fellows may submit works in their regional language provided that a translation is included. Likewise, the Lamiraw organizers require all writers from Eastern Visayas to provide a Filipino or English translation of their entries for the benefit of non-Region 8 fellows.

Interested writers may submit any of the following: 3 poems, 1 short story, 2 essays, a one-act play, or any reasonable combination of the above in hardcopy. A CD containing the manuscripts and their translation, the application form in MS Word format (Arial, font size 12), as well as two 2x2 pictures in JPEG format must also be submitted. A statement from a person of authority (an established writer or a notary public) attesting to the originality of the submitted work should also be included. The application form can be downloaded at Panitikan.com or the NCCA website.

Qualified fellows get free board and lodging, and a proportionate travel allowance. Walk-in auditors will have to pay a registration fee of P3,000.00. Applications must be postmarked on or before August 30, 2010.

All entrees will not be returned and will be kept as file copy of Lamiraw workshop, thus applicants are advised to secure a copy of their manuscripts. Send applications to Harold L. Mercurio, Project Coordinator, Lamiraw Regional Creative Writing Workshop c/o Office of the Arts, Social and Cultural Affairs of NwSSU, Calbayog City, Samar, 6710. Entries can also be e-mailed to lamiraw@yahoo.com.

For inquiries, call at 09177982781 or email at lamiraw@yahoo.com.

More Election Day Pics

2010-05-29T16:53:00.000-07:00

Election Day Pics

2010-05-25T18:45:00.000-07:00

Editorial: A Future For Sale

2010-05-24T06:20:00.000-07:00

Note: This post is the Administrator's take on how the recent elections went. Fair comments are welcome.

From how I saw it, it was indeed an impressive election. It definitely was more peaceful than the most recent ones. Automation made the process exciting (or worrisome) but at the same time challenging. Truly, it was heartwarming to see people brave the punishing summer heat and the tiring wait just to be able to cast their votes.

There is no doubt in my mind that the results reflected the Abaknons’ true democratic will. However, why they voted for whom is an entirely different issue. I wish to think that in the final analysis, they did vote with the thought of what’s best for Capul.

But even with that, any voter who receives money during election time still compromises his vote. While I do not wish to rob the winners of the glory of their victory, I bet that the aftertaste of their win would have been much sweeter if they (again, i mean ALL of them) did not give money to court the votes of the electorate who themselves showed very little self-respect by being all-too-willing to put a price tag on their votes.

This does not mean though that those who lost are absolved from blame. Some of them may claim that vote-buying was the cause for their downfall but they just have no right complaining about it when they too gave money no matter how miniscule. Their hands are equally dirty.

* * * *

With only about 8,000 registered voters, Capul’s electorate are a small speck in the national scheme of things. No Presidential, Vice-Presidential and Senatorial candidate in his right mind will pour massive funding just to corner this immaterial number.

For the provincial posts, the number could matter in cases of close calls. But yet again, why would candidates concentrate on a remote island where their maneuvers can be limited and easily telegraphed? They would better woo the voters from Catarman, Laverazares or Allen if they want to win significantly. Don't we wonder why for so long, no expansive developmental projects were made in Capul? It's because our number was deemed insignificant vote-wise.

But why is it, that when I checked with other voters from Metro Manila and elsewhere, bigger amounts were given to Abaknons? In those areas, many voters received from Php 300-500, but many others received nothing. But in Capul, more than majority received at least Php 1,500.00! And I say “at least” because I know there were those who received more, either from one or both sides of the political contest.

On the eve of the elections, a leader of one party told me that as we talked, about 4,200 prospective voters have already been given the standard P1,500.00. That already amounts to about P6.3 Million! He said that separate funds have already been given to the candidates to fund their last-minute personal appeals. On the otherhand, the other side also claimed to have finished distributing the envelopes to all those they thought belonged to their fold. And by their survey, a win is likewise apparent.

Pray tell me, where in heaven’s arms did all those oodles of money come from? We have not even inputted yet the logistical costs of the campaign and the money given to people long before election day came!

For chrissakes, will somebody please tell me how these people expect to recover this massive investment from the meager salaries they expected to receive? With a post receiving say Php 30,000 (the average salary of the mayor, vice and councilors), such will only give P 1.2 Million for a 14-month three-year term. Any way you look at it, they lose! Or am I just playing naïve?

I understand that candidates will do everything they can to win. They would even mortgage/sell properties or get usurious loans to bankroll their run. And they would impose upon themselves this supreme sacrifice because of their deep desire to help the people of Capul. Yeah, right.

But it takes two to tango, doesn't it? What happened to the principled electorate? What happened to the idealistic youth vote?

I remember a time when people voted primarily because of kinship or belief in the ability of the candidate. Candidates then would just give out cigarettes or liquor to the roadside “tambays”. With only Php 150.00 per session as honorarium, it was then foolhardy for any councilor-wannabe to spend Php 1,000.00 (for the entire campaign) to solicit votes.

What eroded this ideal scenario where people made choices without money in the equation? It was when the parties received funding support from party-headquarters. Not wanting to be accused of pocketing the money, the leaders divided whatever amount they receive to all their perceived allies. It was not difficult because people then wear their loyalties on their sleeves. Only a few would sit on the fence and become “unreadable”. Wrong recipients would actually return the money shared by the assuming party.

But while the initial intent was honest, that decision triggered the practice of giving out bigger amounts in succeeding elections. Money started becoming a necessary part of the process. From Php 50.00 in one election, to P100.00 to 200 and now P1,500.00! And whereas before only party funds were equally shared, now candidates have to dig deep into their pockets in order to at least hope for victory.

But instead of feeling shame, the voters relished the once-in-a-blue-moon attention and rationalized that getting money is not embarrassing since everyone received anyway. The usual retort was, "it is not vote-buying/selling because they would be voting for their kursunada just the same." How ignorantly wrong! (I suggest they read Sec. 261 of the Omnibus Election Code)

What became a boon for the voters, of course became a bane for the candidates. Not contented with the regular offer, more voters became visibly “unreadable”, as that would assure getting gambits from both sides. The harder-to-get they seemed, the higher the bid. This drama persisted until the very last minute of the election when some would wait in the sidelines for the whispered bids (not just to vote, but also not to vote).

With the passing of the 2010 election, the question now is, at what point is this craziness going to stop? Serving Capul is clearly not an easy task and I am sure it will be very hard to convince prospective public servants to participate in elections where they will be measured in terms of the amount they could give and not the quality of the service they could offer. In the end, Capul will be just the dumpster for those with political capital. But what if the candidates get tired of buying votes? Would there be a time when there will be elections with no candidates? That would be an interesting scenario.

So what's in store for future elections in Capul? With the current trend, we are undoubtedly headed towards more disturbing scenarios. To avert these, allow me to pose this challenge to all future candidates: run without giving out money. Let's allow our people to decide based solely on merit. True, expenses are inevitable but the contending parties could opt to spend only for campaign logistics. If monetary support comes from outside, they could save it for scholarships to the deserving or any other worthy project. What's important is that money no longer gets distributed to individuals.

And of course, the bigger challenge is for the Abaknon electorate. In these times of crisis, it is indeed hard to resist the temptation to receive, more so when everyone else does. But if only we take suffrage as our solemn duty to God and country, we will bear in mind that we could still vote for our favored candidate without asking anything in return. After all, elections are intended to benefit the community and not our individual selves. To that ideal I cross my fingers.

New LGU Officials Proclaimed

2010-05-12T18:28:00.000-07:00

After the canvassing of the votes from Capul's 14 clustered precincts, the newly-elected leaders were proclaimed in the afternoon of May 11.

The following were the results of the automated elections:

For Mayor:

Isidro S. Bandal - 3,706 votes
Ignacio V. Cascano - 3,211
Orlando F. Odtujan - 106

For Vice Mayor:

Veronica B. Castillo - 3,460 votes
Remegio C. Ortego - 3,349 votes

For Councilor:

Joselito C. Catucod - 3,898
Leon M. Castillo Jr - 3,533
Anthony Ian B. Castillo - 3,434
Asuncion C. Bonabon - 3,427
Carlos O. Manaog - 3,388
Wenceslao P. Castillo - 3,372
Renato E. Pasco - 3,273
Nanette O. Magdaraog - 3,195

Those who missed the cut:

Arnel Q. Ortego - 3,162
Rhea S. Sauro - 3,149
Marta S. Pelito - 3,145
Marlon C. Mente - 3,016
Eduardo A. Castillo - 2,910
Rolando F. Pineda - 2,907
Ignacio V. Magloyuan - 2,903
Baltazar C. Pernito - 2,769

A total of 7,203 voters out of the 7,928 in the registry cast their votes.

****

Side note on the provincial canvass.

As of May 11, the published figures are as follows:

For Governor:

DAZA, Paul R. - 114,356
ABAYON, Harlin C. - 79,856

For Congressman:

DAZA, Raul A. - 71,171
ROSALES, Francisco Jr. - 44,893

CPO Holds Operation Tuli

2010-05-05T02:29:00.000-07:00

Summertime, being the period off school, has always been the time for Filipino boys to go through the traditional rite of passage to manhood. Since the minor operation can be costly if done in the hospital, the Capul Pink Organization with the help of sponsors, came up with the Operation Tuli in Marikina.

Iya to i mga tururion ....

Aw sala. Yayto bali dina ...

Dr. Ben Depaz gave his services for free.

Operating Room assistants were Edwin Montopar and Mansuette Cabacang.

Boy was the designated nurse, distributing the medicines after the critical cut. At me school supplies pa!

Anxious parents and relatives were there too for moral support.

Over-all coordinator was Alex Castillo while Buddy Flores served as hygiene assistant (in other words "tagahugas" ng mga medical equipment hehe).

Sixteen boys got "cut" last Sunday and the others were scheduled for May 23.

Donors to the activity were Marikina Mayoralty candidate Boy Bolok, Marie Michiko Eli-Freic (Alex's college classmate who sent medical supplies and notebooks from USA) and Atty. Andarino.

Some parents contributed food for the volunteers.

Congratulations CPO!

(pics and report from Alex Castillo)

Sarayaw Kalsada

2010-04-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

From the Administrator:

I was just browsing thru my photo files when I found these pics taken during an impromptu irinum cum sarayaw in Tangnga by the 86ers last December. Needless to say, that was one fun-filled reunion, albeit composed only of a few.

This post however, comes in the heels of a sad news that one of our batchmates now faces some health concerns. She was not there during the gathering, but I hope these pics will make her smile.

Get well soon, Ludith!

Abaknons Rock Vegas!

2010-04-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

Abaknons work hard ... but they party harder!

This truism was once again proven when Abaknons in the US and Canada recently gathered together for serious bonding. They took leave from their respective jobs and pressing activities and rocked Las Vegas the way only Abaknons do. That means lots of dancing, drinking, chatter and limitless fun.

These photos were taken during the evening get-together at the Cafe Moda.

(Note: We would appreciate knowing the names of all the persons in the pics. ABAC members, please send the administrator the names of those featured in each photo.

Thanks to Ms. Nida Halpin, Ms. Esther Castillo-Bahm and Darren Ortego for the pics. Not all of those present however were in the pics, as the camera bearers also got lost in the fun. For those who have pics, please email them to the admin. Thanks!)

ABAC is Born!

2010-04-20T05:32:00.000-07:00

It took a long time coming, but it is now off and running. As an offshoot of a recent reunion in Las Vegas (more on that later), a formal association aimed at mobilizing Abaknons in the United States and Canada has finally been organized.

It is named ABAC or Abaknons Based in America and Canada. Its first step was to elect its pioneer set of officers, as follows:

President: Bernard Ortego

Vice - Presidents: Pio Jao for Canada

Richard Bahm for USA

Treasurer: Myrna Manaog-Valmores

Secretary : Mila Ortego

Asst. Secretary : Nida Halpin

Auditor : Nieva Tan

Advisers: Dolor Bascon
   Mandong Gatongay
               Lorna Almazan

Coordinators: East Coast - Lily Ombrog
                     West Coast - Potot Pelito
                     Canada - Pio Jao and Genny Luniza

The group is currently preparing a directory of all Abaknons in the US and Canada. Through this site, Abaknons are requested to send their names, addresses, contact numbers and email addresses so that the list can be finalized.

Likewise, a general get-together has been scheduled in Capul on July 2012.

Kudos to this new group and it is hoped that everyone participates in its future projects.