LibjoLIVE! Finalist in Travel Category

LibjoLIVE! nominated and one of the finalist competing for Travel Category.

The DigitalFilipino Web Awards 2007 - The DigitalFilipino.com Web Awards in collaboration with the APEC Digital Opportunity (ADOC) Award program aims to advocate the use of Internet and e-Commerce for business development, through the identification, promotion, and highlighting of best e-Commerce practices from various websites in the Philippines.

Here are the finalists competing for the Travel category:

• Marsman Drysdale Travel Inc.
• SuperFerry Travel and Leisure
• Lakbay Pilipinas
• Cebu Travel Philippines
• Filipino Travel Center
• Blue Horizons Travel & Tours
• Libjo Live
• Adventures of the Coconuter

Fiesta Celebration in Libjo

Summer time in Libjo means fiesta time from April to June when kids are out from school and on vacation. Summer always means less rain and calm seas compared to November to January because it's Amihan season. It is time to travel, enjoy the beach and celebrate fiesta.

Original resident here in Libjo and Dinagat Island in general came from as far Bohol, Leyte and Surigao and partly gets the culture mixed. We get the same tradition from Bohol for celebrating fiesta. So whenever we are, we still have it desire to go home to celebrate fiesta with our family and friends in our hometown.

Fiesta is nothing without free food, games competition, dance, drink, activities and cookfighting derby. And of course celebration of the patron saint where fiesta first came about.

Here’s the list of Libjo Fiesta Schedules;

Albor/San Antonio- June 13
Arellano - May 15 (but now moved to 16 because of the election in the 14)
Bayanihan - June 25
Dona Helen (Kahayag)- May 3
Garcia - May 24
Gen. Aguinaldo - May 19
Kanihaan - Apr. 20
Llamera - Apr 27
Magsaysay - June 24
Osmena - Jan. 15
Plaridel - May 27
Quezon - June 29
Rosita - May 2
San Jose - May 29
Santo Nino - May 6

Proclamation Rally Photos

Photos during the Lakas-CMD proclamation rally in Libjo. Most of the candidates listed below in our previous post are present in this rally except those running independent. We are is still working for more details about these photos. Photos by Liquit.

Tagay Drinking in Group

Whenever my father needs help for carpentry job either in constructing house a boat or just any construction project he usually hires two of his favorite Panday (Carpenter). Both called Ninong. To distinguish one with the other, one is called Usahay (he’s an occasional drinker) and the other called Kanonay (all the time drinker). Apparently this two share the same name and the same work but when it comes to drinking they don’t share glass. In our culture when it comes to social group drinking we have typical way; one is assign to tend the drink share the same glass passed on every person on a circle. We call it ‘Tagay’. It’s considered show of brotherhood, camaraderie which is good in my opinion but in the other hand a bad hygienic practice. Like the Ad I saw about handling of beer in bottles (Miller Beer). “You poke it, you own it”. Putting ones finger on the bottle’s mouth is considered bad manner. It just plainly a matter of like after using the restroom we should wash hands.

Speaking of drinking In Libjo here are some of my other observations. No strict rules for the Minors. Anyone can buy liquor or drink alcoholic drinks without any age verification. Generally most of the time drinking is disturbance. Drinking late at night creating noise and disturbing neighbors. Drinking on public places. Like one example a councilor who tolerate drinking in the streets in front of his church.

I mean there is nothing wrong with drinking if only we have common sense of delikadesa or we have such rules to follow. Especially now that I’ve read those moderate drinkers are the least likely to acquire heart diseases. But as a reminder there is always a day you cannot have a drink the ‘Liquor Ban’ during Election Day.

reference added:
Alcohol Problems and Solutions
by Prof. David J. Hanson, Ph.D.
State University of New York at Potsdam

Lobsters Local in Libjo

Here are the common lobsters that lives in the reefs in Libjo. One that is eaten the local lobster known as Banagan (Spiny Lobsters) and the other two that is usually not eaten the annoying lobster locally called Hanlilitik (Peacock Smasher) and Voigtmann's reef lobster.

Phylum Arthropoda
Class Crustacea
Order Decapoda
Suborder Macrura Reptantia
Superfamily Palinuroidea
Family Palinuridae
Genus Panulirus

Phylum ARTHOPODA
Class MALACOSTRACA
Order DECAPODA
Family ENOPLOMETOPIDAE
Species Enoplometopus voigtmanni
Common Name Voigtmann's reef lobster

Phylum ARTHOPODA
Class MALACOSTRACA
Order DECAPODA
Family ODONTODACTYLIDAE
Species Odontodactylus scyllarus
Common Name Peacock Smasher
local called Hanlilitik

Here's some reading about lobster farming in Libjo.

Dinagat Island: A thriving aquaculture center
Small town sees success in lobster farming

Happy Celebration Araw ng Libjo

How wonderful and festive day today in Libjo! We are celebrating the very foundation of the town - Araw ng Libjo or Libjo Foundation Day. This event is observed every year the same day we celebrated Earth Day. The town hosted a series of activities the parade, ballroom dancing contest, folk dance, minus-one singing contest finale, volleyball, and basketball, pump boat racing and followed by the coronation night of Ginang Kalikasan (More-Money-Than-Beauty Pageant) a sort of fund generating activity. Barangay turns up hundred percent in the participation even though we have rain late the afternoon. Barangay San Jose and Quezon is one of the best entries in ballroom dancing hilarious full body contact with really superb outfit, our version of ‘Dancing with the Star’.

Got to go. I might miss something :). By the way Simbada is not included in this years program since it is so expensive to host. Photos will just follow.

News: Update on Loreto Ambush Incident

Report said unidentified men fired at the house of a Lakas-CMD mayoralty bet in the newly created province of Dinagat Friday night.

The attack on the house of Loreto mayoral candidate Doandre Bill Ladaga happened a day after one of his supporters was shot.

Police said the attackers fled after sensing that lawmen, who was informed about the incident by no less than Loreto Mayor Dario Pelismino, were approaching. Read more ...

News: Mayoral Bet’s Supporter in Dinagat Hurt in Ambush

BUTUAN CITY – A supporter of a mayoral candidate in the island town of Loreto in the newly created Dinagat province was wounded in an ambush Thursday morning, police said.

Investigation showed that the victim, Junie Ablites, 35, was driving a single motorcycle when a white Toyota pick-up blocked his path.

Ablites was said to be on his way to a meeting of supporters of Lakas-CMD mayoral bet Doandre Ladaga when he was attacked.

One of two men alighted from the pick-up and aimed a gun at Ablites. The latter jumped out of his motorcycle and ran, but the man chased and shot him in the upper left shoulder.

The gunman hastily left, while Ablites was immediately rushed to the Loreto District Hospital and later transferred to the Caraga Regional Hospital in Surigao City, a one-hour boat ride from Dinagat Island.

Police later identified the Toyota pick-up with license plate GED 551 as allegedly owned by mayoralty candidate James Gupana. Read More ...

News: Korean joins Dinagat Island Politics

SURIGAO CITY - A 64-year-old Korean businessman married to a Filipina has joined local politics and is running for mayor of the seaside town of Basilisa in the newly created Dinagat Islands province.

Sangkil Ham Park, a naturalized Filipino, registered himself as "Chairman" in his certificate of candidacy (COC) and is running as an independent.

He is the Chairman-Founder of the Philippine-Chason Charity Foundation.

Park claimed he has been staying in Basilisa town for 10 years and six months prior to the May 14, 2007 elections, according to records obtained by THE STAR from the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Park was born in Seoul, South Korea on Jan. 10, 1943. He currently resides at Purok 8, Barangay Tag-abaca, Basilisa, Dinagat Islands. Read More ...

Provincial and Local Candidates

Here’s our list of Candidates in the Province of Dinagat Islands and local candidates for the Municipality of Libjo. We will post other local candidates from other municipality as it becomes available. Board Members were divided into two districts. District 1 consists of Loreto, Tubajon, Libjo and Basilisa and District 2 consist of Cagdianao, San Jose and Dinagat.



Governor: Jade E. Villaroman

Congresswoman: Glenda B. Ecleo

Vice Governor: Elvis Dela Merced

Board Members District 1:
Merlinda D. Lagroma
Gracelyn B. Ecleo
Domingo L. Torotoro
Rolizabeth T. Ladaga
Ukem Ecleo

Board Members District 2:
Norberto A. Sarita Sr.
Zacarias N. Vales
Mario P. Menil
Nilo P. Gulfo
Bernardino Alcaria Jr.

Mayor: Sonny Llamera

Vice Mayor:
Romy Villarosa
Ale Cabajes

Councilors:
Jack Llamera
Roger Magpatoc
Jimmy Taasan
Ebong Cabajes
Dodo Edera
Cuay Simbajon
Lourdes Creencia
Frank Areglo

Councilors (Independent):
Junior Dacles
Aurora Pertos
Liezl dela Cruz
Amy Baynosa
Boy Dellera
Kawit Conales
Luz Bua
Nick Oriat

Welcome to Habal-Habal Country

We have heard Dinagat Island National Highway is expected to start this year. Let me ask everyone … what do we expect from a 100 million-road project? Or we’ll simplify it this way; we have around 100 kilometers road to build and 100 million pesos to spend. That brings us more or less a budget of 1 million pesos per kilometer span. Would this be enough? Would this road be designed for 4-wheel vehicle? Would this be 2 lane asphalt or concrete? I supposed this could be done easier this time since road is already existing compared to starting from scratch cutting trees, clearing hills and forest. But remember this highway is been declared DONE long time ago in the 70’s during Navarro’s term. I’m also thinking after the build would there be budget to maintain the highway?

This is PROGRESS. Indeed a good government investment. A road access to each town is a good deal. Now we have an option. We can choose not to survive more than two hours of waves. We can transport goods faster, safer and less expensive. Fast and convenient transportation brings opportunity. This will also bring more tourists and investors in the Island.

But on the other hand one sector is opposing the idea of a highway (Habal-Habal Operators). I supposed they don’t want another kind of transport to take place since this is where they earn a living. Hmm maybe they just cherished the rough bumpy riding cowboy-like drive. Or they just want to be included or be involve. How about we will just call the project Habal-Habal Highway after all this is Habal-Habal country. (photo by Bobby Timonera)

Link to latest update...

Dinagat Island Dive Information

Travel time: Approximately 3 hours
Dive level: Advanced/Experienced
Dive type: Safari

Rocky islet off Dinagat

There are spectacular (and mostly unexplored) underwater caves, mounds, and pinnacles in and around the cluster of mostly uninhabited rocky islets just off the coast of Dinagat, located between Southern Leyte and the province of Surigao del Norte, of which it is part.

Activities range from deep dives (visibility is often 40+ meters) to snorkeling in the shallows. However, due to the area’s strong and tricky currents, we recommend it only to experienced divers with 100+ logged dives.

The best time to visit Dinagat is from April to November.

source: www.whaleofadive.com

News: Dinagat Project Exempt from Election Ban

Unaffected by the election ban, four of the government’s 21 priority road projects are up for completion before the end of the year.

Presidential Management Staff director general Cerge Remonde yesterday said the P21-billion Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway Project and the P138.5-million Edsa rehabilitation projects are among the four targeted for completion between now and December.

The two others are the P2.5 billion Southern Tagalog Arterial Road 2 from Lipa to Batangas cities and the P100-million Dinagat Island Road.

Acting Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan said the 20 priority road projects and one bridge project with a combined cost of P96.6 billion are exempted from the construction ban imposed by the Commission on Elections during the election season. Read more ...

Jerrys Style Shopping in Libjo

Most likely if your from Libjo Dinagat Island or Surigao you know what I'm talking about. Jerrys is a shopping mall in Surigao City a different kind of store concept than Sari-sari where shoppers will choose what kind of item they're going to buy and pay it at the checkout counter. Long been in places but new to the town this idea gives customers ease, choice and less man power and meaning less expense to run a store. And much better if in result customers gets back the saving by cheaper goods.

Different stores has different concept. Stores in the US for example have some of these cost savings measures. Let the customers use their 25cents coin to borrow a shopping cart. That is they don't employ (pay) people to keep shopping carts in one place since shoppers will take care for it themselves. Cut the cost of shopping bags or baggers (you have to pay for the bags). Run a store with only 2 personnel. And bring the prices down to the advantage of the customer.

Anyways, the store I’m telling here will soon rise in front of Gotiay's residence in Libjo. Remember the old house next to the Tyang-gihan (Mercado)? The building is still under construction.

I'm just hoping here, establishment like this be successful and pay more taxes and not be considered a Sari-Sari business.

Sari-Sari Stores

Considering the mercantile attitudes and sales abilities of the Filipinos the publicist Regalario wrote once: “Give a Filipino thousand pesos and he probably will use this sum as a start-capital for a small retail-business". This thesis seems to be confirmed, if you look in a typical street of a Philippine barangay. With few exceptions one sari-sari store follows the other. You could gain the impression, that every house is or has a little street store - the Philippines as an agglomeration of small and smallest micro enterprises. The ubiquitous sari-sari stores are also belonging to the typical inventory of the Philippines like the Jeepney, Barong or the Sampaguita garlands. They can provide the owners with an additional income.

Sari-sari stores are often little wooden huts. A oversized billboard, emphasizing the importance, can contrast with a narrowly cut sales window. A look into the sales window shows a little room in semidarkness filled with properly arranged goods. Here basic commodities are sold: i.e. rice, salt, sugar, preserved foods, calorie-rich candies, detergents, batteries, shampoo or floor wax. Very often soft drinks and surely also beer and gin are bestsellers. Cosmetics are bringing higher profits, so they are exposed in a favourable position. Fruits (for example bananas) and vegetables can be added, particularly if there is no “Wet Market " with fresh products in the neighbourhood. A western observer can be astonished, seeing the sale of only one or two cigarettes. Sandals can be a special offer attracting possible buyers. Sometimes the exposed range of goods is thinned out to reduce the taxation by official and unofficial authorities. But the range of goods seems to be very similar even if there is a strong competition with other sari-sari stores in the neighbourhood. New products need further investments and the demand may be only small.

Sari-saris have an important social function in everyday life. Here you can hear the newest gossips and you can have a little chat. In the morning you see perhaps women with their children, clinging on the apron strings and pleading for sweeties. Later the pupils come for a Coke or a comic strip. And in the evening men can sit on provisory benches smoking cigarettes or drinking beer and Ginebra, just to forget the frustration of the day or to have some entertainment. With closing time the store gets very well secured, because you never know … read more

Island's Way of Life and Diet by Richard Parker

Richard Parker's from UK now lives half each year in GL (General Luna) in Siargao. He is currently doing a study about the way of life and diet in the Philippines particularly in the Island of Siargao. He also owned and managed a website containing rich information about Seashore Food, Early Human Diet, Fishing, Fruit & Vegetables, Animals and the Philippines itself. Information mostly related to Siargao but since Dinagat and Siargao is a just neighbor, the two islands share some common culture. This is a good source of information for those of you who want to know more about our culture in the Island. That is from an outsiders (foreigner) point of view. You can visit his site at www.coconutstudio.com


By the way this is some of what he says about our LibjoLIVE!:
Your weblog is wonderful. I enjoy it greatly. I also liked your post about spider fighting - I've only just learned about this (lawa ???) and it sounds fun. Perhaps we could organise a Siargao/Dinagat Spider Derby, and give a lot of pleasure to those who cannot afford to maintain fighting cocks or Manny Paquiao.

Kind of Viagra Discovered in Libjo

A white powder produced from a palm tree called Baji is now discovered to have potential effect like Viagra. Hmm interesting.

I supposed this would mainly be used as Aphrodisiacs not as Viagra, which is a cure for Erectile Dysfunction. Viagra is a drug approved by Food and Drug Administration in the US and scientist is not considering it aphrodisiacs since they do not have any mood effect (desire). Aphrodisiac are considered agent in which increases sexual desire or sexual arousal.

Result from my Internet search; Aphrodisiacs appear to gain their reputation from the principles of sympathetic magic, e.g. oysters or tahong, due to their shape. This also explains the trade in the phallic-looking horn of the rhinoceros. Other animal-based aphrodisiacs gain their reputation from the apparent virility or aggressiveness of the animal source — such as tiger penis — also endangering the species.

Baji may also have this reputation. This palm is used in flooring and has strong solid strand. Anyway, working or not this discovery by some barangay police from Barangay Arellano said it really work. Maybe because if this is an Aphrodisiacs by historical and scientific standpoint, this only produce the desired result simply because their users have chosen to believe they will be effective (The Placebo Effect).

Some residents now inquiring if they could export this as a product.

Going to Loreto and Libjo

DepEd Surigao Medical and Dental Team during the trip last 2006 in Loreto, Tubajon, Libjo and Puerto Princesa Dinagat Islands. Posted by Nikki.

New Town Gym Update

Here are some updated photos of the new Libjo Gym. The Gym is expected to be use partially finished or not this coming June during the towns fiesta celebration.

Your Message to the Graduates 2007

Muthja will deliver a speech to the high school graduates of 2007 in Albor National High School. I made some tips I want to share to the graduates. I hope she could insert all this to her message. You can also include yours by posting a comment.

Starting from here..
-Don’t marry to soon – you still need to earn more for that. Asa ra na.
-Learn to speak English since call centers are looking for English speakers.
-Take certification exams like programming, computer application or Information Technology.
-Learn your keyboard, learn how to Type and how to use Computers. We are getting to information tech age. Everything is done thru computers.
-Take Nursing course – The US still hiring for more nurses.
-It’s not too late. Learn how to drive, bike, motor if available a car and learn to swim.
-Build a plan for your future and make it happen.
-Make more friends.

I know not everyone can afford to go to college. Future is much better with college degree but success is not always measured the same. You could be a successful businessman with out finishing college. Pacqiuao didn’t finish high school even (just taken an exam and granted a diploma). That is if you start a boxing career. Meaning you have much much brighter tomorrow since you finished high school.. Good Luck!

Please add your message to the graduates… post a comment thanks.

Libjo New Logo

Libjo has updated its logo with Dinagat Island now as the province.

Solons of new districts to be elected on May 14

Six new members of the House of Representatives will be among those to be elected in the May 14 elections to represent newly created legislative districts in four provinces in Mindanao and two cities in Metro Manila.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) led by Chairman Benjamin S. Abalos Sr. said the additional legislative districts are in the provinces of Sultan Kudarat, Zamboanga Sibugay, Shariff Kabunsuan, and Dinagat, and in Marikina City and Taguig City.

---------
Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act No. 201 created the province of Shariff Kabunsuan with one legislative district, while RA 9355 created the province of Dinagat with a lone legislative district out of the first district of Surigao del Norte and converted Surigao del Norte into one legislative district. Read More.

Greetings to the Graduates!

Congratualtions to all graduates 2007 especially to:

Joleen Jacquez
BSChemical Engineering
University of San Carlos - Cebu City
Daughter of Mr & Mrs Emmanuel Jacquez











Melody Llamera
BSNursing
University of Cebu - Cebu City
Daughter of Libjo Mun Mayor and Mrs
Lamberto Llamera Jr.










Kristal Jacquez
Albor National High School
Daughter of Mr Bato Jacquez and
Albor Barangay Captain Fe Jacquez










Greetings from Uncles, Aunties and Cousins

Congratulation to Graduates Batch 2007!

Congratulations to the Graduates of Albor National High School 2007 :

Jade Jane Dela Cruz
Danna Buenafe
Ara May Vasquez,
Princess Gerandoy and
Jefter Balorio

Greetings from friends at LibjoLIVE!.

Filipino Folkdance in Modern Rhythm

Dance is always part of Libjo Culture not to mention Fiesta season is coming. From courtship dance Kuratcha to Cha-cha to Boogie to Rumba to Tango, Libjo has it all. Of course Disco for the younger generation. But have you seen a Filipino Folkdance in a modern music rhythm. Here's an amateur clip from last Independence Day celebration. Enjoy!

News: Blast fishing toll: 1 dead, another critical in Surigao

Dynamite fishing took its toll when a fisherman got blasted to death and his campanion now fights for dear life at a hospital in Libjo, Surigao del Norte, police authorities reported Tuesday.

Reports reaching the command and operations center of the Police Regional Office 13, the accidental blasting incident occured at sea, off the coast of Barangay Kanihaan, Libjo town late on Monday afternoon.

Chief Supt. Antonio D. Nanas, regional director of PRI-13 identified the fatality as one Gerry Coyumo Estobo, 30, of Barangay Kanihaan.

Critically wounded was Warlito Apan Estrajano, 33, a neighbor of Estomo. He was immediately brought to Libjo District Hospital for treatment of mangled extremities and other parts of the body.

Initial investigation disclosed that the victims were on a fishing expedition aboard their motorized pump boat, when the dynamite ignited by Estobo, suddenly exploded.

The exploosion was so intense that Estrajano, who was at the other end of the boat, still sustained multiple wounds in various parts of his body.

As this develop, Chief Supt. Nanas called on all fishfolk in the area to heed government warnings against blast fishing, pointing to the stiff penalties that lurks on them once the get caught inflagrante delicto. Read more.

Libjo First Place in Science Project

Libjo gets the first place in Science Investigatory Project - Elementary Level. This is during the Regional Science Fair and Quiz in Lanuza Central Elementary School Lanuza Surigao del Sur. A Certificate from the Department of Education - Caraga Region was awarded to Juan L. Espina Jr Libjo's Team Coach.

Origins and Cultivation of Coconut

You wonder where Coconuts came from. Here’s the answer.

The origins of this plant are the subject of controversy, with some authorities claiming it is native to south Asia, while others claim its origin is in northwestern South America. Fossil records from New Zealand indicate that small, coconut-like plants grew there as long as 15 million years ago. Even older fossils have been uncovered in Rajasthan, TamilNadu, Kerala and Maharashtra, India. Regardless of its origin, the coconut has spread across much of the tropics, probably aided in many cases by sea-faring peoples. The fruit is light and buoyant and presumably spread significant distances by marine currents. Fruits collected from the sea as far north as Norway have been found to be viable (and subsequently germinated under the right conditions). In the Hawaiian Islands, the coconut is regarded as a Polynesian introduction, first brought to the islands by early Polynesian voyagers from their homelands in the South Pacific. They are now ubiquitous to most of the planet between 26ºN and 26ºS.

The coconut palm thrives on sandy soils and is highly tolerant of salinity. It prefers areas with abundant sunlight and regular rainfall (750 to 2,000 mm annually), which makes colonizing shorelines of the tropics relatively straightforward. Coconuts also need high humidity (70–80%+) for optimum growth, which is why they are rarely seen in areas with low humidity (e.g. the Mediterranean), even where temperatures are high enough (regularly above 24°C). They are very hard to establish in dry climates and cannot grow there without frequent irrigation. They may grow but not fruit properly in areas where there is not sufficient warmth, like Bermuda.

Coconut palms are intolerant of freezing weather. They will show leaf injury below 34ºF (1ºC), defoliate at 30ºF (-1ºC) and die at 27ºF (-3ºC). There are rare reports of coconut palms surviving (with severe damage) to 20ºF (-7ºC). One night of freezing weather can set the growth of a coconut palm back about 6 months.

The only two states in the U.S. where coconut palms can be grown and reproduce outdoors without irrigation are Hawaii and Florida. Coconut palms will grow from Bradenton southwards on Florida's west coast and Melbourne southwards on Florida's east coast. The occasional coconut palm is seen north of these areas in favored microclimates in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area and around Cape Canaveral. They may likewise be grown in favored microclimates on the barrier islands near the Brownsville, Texas area. They may reach fruiting maturity, but are damaged or killed by the occasional winter freezes in these areas. While coconut palms flourish in south Florida, unusually bitter cold snaps can kill or injure coconut palms there as well. Only the Florida Keys provide a safe haven from the cold as far as growing coconut palms on the U.S. mainland. Read more.

Dinagat Registered Voters

National Statistical Coordination Board has this Registered Voters for the year of 2004.

Province: DINAGAT ISLANDS
Region REGION XIII (Caraga)
Province DINAGAT ISLANDS

1. BASILISA (RIZAL) 5th Class Partially Urban 12,718

2. CAGDIANAO 4th Class Rural 7,888

3. DINAGAT 5th Class Partially Urban 6,145

4. LIBJO (ALBOR) 4th Class Partially Urban 10,151

5. LORETO 4th Class Partially Urban 5,799

6. SAN JOSE (Capital) 4th Class Urban 16,670

7. TUBAJON 5th Class Partially Urban 4,069




Details Municipality: LIBJO (ALBOR)
Registered Voters (2004): 10,151
District: 1st
Barangays (Number: 16)

Albor (Pob.)
Arellano
Bayanihan
Doña Helen
Garcia
General Aguinaldo (Bolod-bolod)
Kanihaan
Magsaysay
Osmeña
Plaridel
Quezon
San Antonio (Pob.)
San Jose
Santo Niño
Llamera
Rosita

Personal Favorite Food in Libjo

What will you say if I'll ask you what is your favorite recipe when you're in Libjo. Is it Sutukil? One large fish divided in three. 1/3 sinugba, 1/3 tinula, and 1/3 kinilaw. Sinugba/Tinula/Kinilaw and why is it in short called SuTuKil? It should be "SiTiKi" taken from the first 2 letters from the 3 words. But then I realized it's not taken from those words. It was derived from the short version of the words. That is Sugba/Tula/Kilaw “SuTuKil".

SUGBA short for SINUGBA
TULA short for TINULA
KILAW short for KINILAW

My personal favorites are Sugbang Sa-ang, Lutong Saging Karnaba, Kinilaw nga Lato and Takubo - takyobo (endengered na). Also kinilaw or adobo or fried nukos (pusit).

What is yours?

LibjoLIVE! Featured in Pidjanga

LibjoLIVE! Featured in Pijanga of Mainit, Surigao del Norte. Thanks to Mr. Zimmbodilion MOSENDE aka Zimm/Peter of Mainit. Please visit Pidjanga of Mainit http://pidjanga.blogspot.com.

Beach View - Libjo Dinagat Island

A beach view from Libjo Dinagat Island Philippines.

photo by junsjazz under Creative Commons License.

Weather and its Political Connection

When it comes to international news, we always hear of snowstorm, blizzard, tornado and hurricane. Sounds foreign of course we don’t have one. And of course we cannot afford to have. For us in Libjo and us Filipinos we always dream of snow and cold. But it’s not easy to get the same temperature to get snow. First of all our houses are not design for the cold. A lot of people will die if we have cold temperature. Imagine water system frozen including toilets? We need water and air heater to warm our homes. Need another fund? We need another set of clothes and another type of transportation. And snow needs to be plow and clean up from our roads. Our government doesn’t even have a budget to make roads, much more to clean up snow. But don’t worry we don’t have one.

What I’m thinking was because the US or any cold country with such adversary’s people tend to cooperate in result provides a great government services. With such common problem like weather good government is critical. They should function and coordinate so residents will get comfortable living. And so people choose to elect public officials for what is right because lives are at stake. With this unusual climate, culture and government tends to work differently.

For us in the Philippines we always think we are lucky to have a close constant temperature all year round. We don’t have fall or spring or winter. Boring as you might think but its not. Since we can enjoy the beach and outdoors all the time. We can do things, work tomorrow or the next day. Maniana maniana mamaya na. We can build houses bahay kubo, road that works with the minimum sub standard qualities. Basta na lang. And every thing is okay. Climate is so perfect no wonder we are called Paradise Island in the Pacific. Everything lives here. We are paradise for crocodiles, wild animals and also some corrupt public officials.

Pay Per Vote Election 2007 not Pay Per View

Not the Pay per View we watch from ABS-CBNNOW http://abs-cbnnow.com. The PPV we are talking about is the Pay Per Vote is the Philippine Election in May 2007. This is what you want to know if you want to run for office in the Philippines. Of course you can check COMELEC website http://www.comelec.gov.ph for official guidelines. But our method is fairly straight truth about politics Philippine style. Lets accept the certainty “Votes are for Sale”.

Since from the old political scheme to run for office you need 3G (not the 3rd generation telephone system) but “Guns, Goons and Gold”. Not to be considered bad but Guns makes you a respected person. Other party opposition doesn’t temp to create hostility “Gulat” on you because you run for the office. You have to have people – Goons that will enforce your plan of action. These are the people you are going to use to campaign and convince voters to choose a candidate. And Gold. Popularity in an election doesn’t necessarily converted to votes. You still need cash amount to bring people to vote. In either to pay for the transport or let people be able to eat while in town in the polling stations. Or plainly a gift “pahalipay” you choose them in the election. Which in legality during election if proven, is illegal and can bring up to 6 years imprisonment.

It depends on locality and population. To run for Mayor you need to have at least 500 thousand pesos. That is if you have 6 thousand voters and you have at least 83 pesos per voter. Some gets higher bid 1 thousand pesos per 3 candidates. That is a deal per number of candidate to write. To run for municipal councilor you need at least 100 thousand pesos. Part of it contributed to the party and part for personal vote buying. How do they know you include them in the ballot? They have a system signs called “contra sinyas”. Instead of writing name like Jose Rizal they will write Mr. Jose Rizal. Clear? Get it?

Not just that. Here are some more tips. Be sure you have Religious Recommendation. If you gets Iglesia Ni Cristo or PBMA ticket you are sure get more vote. Just be careful with Sample ballot tampering. Some candidates or party will try to change names from your sample ballot. Voters use this form as guide during the actual vote.

Some towns cost more. Like for example San Isidro in Siargao Island it cost 3 million capital to run for a mayor. Vote buying is much higher. Imagine how much you need to run for Governor or Senator or President? That makes me wonder how much money can I get back to get back investment. That is ROI return of investment from corruption and project kickbacks since salary is not enough.

Anyway… Choose right and shop wise. Vote what’s right. Happy shopping!

Dinagat Island Province and Municipal Candidates

The table is open for nomination. Who will you recommend for office for your town and for the Province Dinagat Island. And can you support it by pointing out background and experiences why he or she is right for the position? Remember you could always be an anonymous to post your entry. Nomination is open for the following offices: Governor, Board member, Mayor and Municipal Councilor. So you can note down name, office and town and your supporting statement. Whether it is already officially filled in the Commission on Election (COMELEC) or not I hope you can include it here. Thanks for your partaking.

Dinagat Island Inside Politics

It was said the interim provincial government set of officials would run in this coming May election. But this is believed to be not true. Some if not all will be change with a new set of candidates to run. Seems to represent the majority of the Dinagatnon. And since a party could not be monopolized by one family in the election. Most of the same last name candidates or family will run independently. As expected during the actual vote, most of the line-up board members that are not family is expected to be drop from the official sample ballot and gets zero vote recommendation.

Dinagat Island Chromite Prospect

The bulk of Chromite deposites in the Philippines are found in Zambales Province and Dinagat Island, off northeastern Mindanao. Here's the list for Dinagat Island Prospects.

Location : 1 Km. Bo. Camayog, Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Camayog Prospect

Location : Due East of Bo. Osmeña, Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Caniyog Prospect

Location : Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Dinagat Island Prospect
Operated by : Alfa Integrated Mineral Res., Inc.

Location : Rizal, Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Doña Helen Chromite Prospect

Location : Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Libjo Chromite Deposits
Operated by : Velore Mining Corp.

Location : Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Loreto Chromite Deposit
Operated by : Malayan Wood Products, Inc.

Location : Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Masdang Chromite Deposit
Operated by : Acoje Mining Co.

Location : Eastern coast & north tip of Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Masdang Prospect
Operated by : Acoje Mining Co.

Location : 5 Km. East of Bo. Osmeña, Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Sub - Camp 3 Prospect

Location : NE of Bo. Tagababa, Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Tagababa Prospect

Location : NE of Bo. Wilson, Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Tagbaboy Prospect

Location : NE tip of Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Talisay Prospect

Location : Pahi Creek and Gaas Inlet, Dinagat Island
Mine / Prospect Name : Talisay Prospect


source: www.pcierd.dost.gov.ph

Chromite - Alloy for a better IRON

Coffee potSteel is a mixture of iron with a small amount of carbon - around 1 percent. Such mixtures of metals are called alloys. Iron, in its pure form, can be heated and then bent, hammered or "wrought" into many forms. Iron objects produced this way are only moderately hard, and they can bend in use. Melting iron and pouring it into molds produces "cast iron" products that are brittle once they cool. But adding carbon to iron changes its microstructure and properties. When this mixture is heated it reaches an extremely ductile stage and can be formed easily. As steel cools it gains strength and rigidity, becoming stronger than iron. This process is called tempering. Different amounts of carbon and the rate of cooling determine the final properties of steel.

Adding chromium to this mixture produces a harder steel by delaying the transformation that occurs as steel is cooled, and steels with 3 to 5 percent chromium were produced beginning in 1865. It was not until the early 1900s that the corrosion resistant-properties of steels containing percentages of chromium higher than 5 percent were noticed. At higher percentages, chromium makes steel highly resistant to many corrosive agents and environments. These "stainless" steels have many applications in materials requiring high strength and resistance to corrosion. Perhaps the most well known uses of stainless steel are in cutlery and cookware. The stamp "18-8" for example indicates that the steel contains 18 percent chromium (for strength) and 8 percent nickel (for sheen). Today the use of chromium in the production of stainless steel accounts for 60 percent of chromium consumption. Stainless steel utensils and cutlery are found in kitchens throughout the United States. Read more...

Island Surf - Love and Hate

When I was young, I only have one chance in a year to visit Surigao City. Reason? Weather. Only during the month of May when the sea are usually calm. My mom’s scared to travel particularly in stormy condition when waves are bigger. Even though she’s from Siargao, where waves are much bigger in comparison. She doesn’t know how to swim. ;-) And I assumed not just us. Everyone hates the waves.

But it’s just lately that we know a wave is also good. Sort of. And that makes Siargao famous today. Our Sister Island is getting international because of it. Realty business in the island is booming and tourism in general. Check our movie clip from 2006 Quiksilver Open. You’re watching LibjoLIVE!

Treasure Hunting

The trend was long gone but the interest still lives on. (Uso-uso lang ba). Treasure hunting was once hot activity in Libjo. As you become aware of the subject, signs are everywhere it just keeps on popping up. Cemented rock with old markings, fill up stones telling some hint, metal detector clues that suggests something buried within and some chitchat about hidden burial sites.

Cemented cylinder landmark locally called “Muhon” is the usual suspect a treasure is concealed somewhere. Dinagat Island once invaded by the Japanese during World War II and occupied by Americans after that, is enough indication something should have been happened here.

Yamasita Treasure or what really they’re looking for, we don’t know for sure. One exploration I had with my father was looking for One-Eyed skull believed to be the head of a legend fighter from Dinagat. It was said left in one of the islets in Libjo. We visited the mass burial site in “Panangatan” (Skeletons and bones place in a wooden casket). But we find nothing. We get nothing but mosquito bites, muscle pain and fatigue. It was a great experience anyway. I pretend I was part of Indiana Jones party in the movie looking for the hidden treasure.

One instance, I was with another group from Libjo. We investigated one location close to baragay Quezon out to the bay. We found a cave close to the seashore just sufficient signs to build interest for everyone. Everyone is eager to check unfortunately its entrance is so small I’m the only one thin enough to fit the opening. That was then. :) Believe me, I can’t describe my feeling I’m on my knees crawling in a cave with skeleton around. I’m frightened and cold. I wish that was just a dream and I’m going to wake up. Anyway from that adventure we found broken rusted 1 inch length blade (assumed to be a samurai), pieces of broken ceramics chinaware which we cannot put together. I don’t think that has of any value at all. It was said offering for the dead the time they were buried.

Treasure hunting legend in Libjo still lives on. After all if someone gets improvement in livelihood like a new house or a new motorbike, no doubt neighbors will say “naka kis-kis man” (got a strike of treasure wealth).

The question is was there really a treasure to find or it is just a non-sense waste of time. One thing I can say…that was FUN and that was a good excuse from house and wife’s chores.

Dinagat – Philippine version of the State of Utah

Here’s some similarities I can point out between Utah’s Mormon and Dinagat’s PBMA.

Organization -
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon) was founded by Joseph Smith in New York State in the USA in 1830. The Mormons saw Salt Lake City Utah as their holy city - Brigham Young called it a Kingdom of Heaven on Earth.

Ruben Edera Ecleo, a Filipino spiritual leader founded the Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association, Incorporated in 1965 in San Jose Dinagat and called it the Holy Land.

Migration -
Mormons find their migration to Utah as equivalent to the migration of Israelites forced to leave Egypt in search of Promised Land.

Dinagat Island is a Holy Land by PBMA members and brings them here. What I’ve heard from one account. Migration gathered in Dinagat in great numbers because of the propaganda of falling SkyLab. Dinagat believed to be the only safe place when this Satellite comes down.

Polygamy -
Mormon practices doctrine of plural marriage was seen as a serious attack on the social and ethical rules.

As with late Ruben Ecleo Sr, he was known to have “material wife” and “spiritual wives” and practices polygamy.

Politics -
The Mormons asked the US government to make a new state. They call it Utah (after the local Ute tribe of Native Americans) and the Church leader Brigham Young became the Governor. The rapidly growing Mormon communities had the potential to exercise considerable political power in Utah.

Same as PBMA in Dinagat, political power in the Island province is unmistakably indisputable. Daughter of late Ruben Ecleo Sr. is now the Governor.

What can you say? And since Utah hosted big time the last winter Olympic, do you think one of these days Dinagat will also host one of worlds well known events?

Changes: We change the term used from Religion to Organization.

LibjoLIVE! Valentine's Wishes

For me Valentine’s Day is a special day. It is a day when we can show our love ones we care. We send flowers, something sweet or as simple as a greeting card. Need a hint? I ordered a bunch of roses from Surigao City and delivered straight to the hospital where my friend once working. Is that a good idea? That was special. And that is how sweet I am :-). During my colleges days we had same income-generating project delivering fresh roses to the classrooms. That earns me the name the “flowerboy”. But that was a good business.

Anyway, In Libjo we celebrated Valentines in different way. We usually have a ‘Bayle’. Disco’ral as they call it or Disco inside a corral. With as little as one peso youngsters can choose a girl to dance. Giving a chance for these young men to introduce themselves.

Bayle, Tibuok Kalibotan
Maayo pa unta'g kanang imong bonul
Sa Bayle hingtumban!

This years Valentines Day falls in a Wednesday. It depends in what’s your plan on how you celebrate it. By wearing red shirt to show your hunting. Or just make yourself get ready for the firing squad; it’s up to you. I hoping it is not usual a normal day for most of us. From LibjoLIVE! Happy Valentines to all!

Libjo Community Driven Development

For the whole of Dinagat Island, Libjo has been chosen to implement KALAHI-CIDSS project. KALAHI-CIDSS is a community-driven development project funded by the World Bank. It aims to empower communities through participation in every barangay. The project has a budget of 4.8 million and supposed to be subdivided in 16 barangays. At this point Libjo KALAHI-CIDSS is still undergoing a series of conference /seminar to determine a project that every barangay need most. It is the policy of this program to let the barangay folks determine what project is best for them to alleviate poverty. This is not a dole out program. For example the barangay folks needs a Day Care Center, the barangay has to donate a lot area for the building where it will be constructed or shoulder 10% of the total appropriation cost.

By the way KALAHI is Kapitbisig Laban sa Kahirapan (Linking Arms against Poverty)
and CIDSS is Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services

Breaking News: Pump Boat Capsized 3 Dead

Bad weather believed to be the cause a boat accident resulted in 3 deaths in Libjo. The pump boat named "Punta Villa" capsized due to heavy waves and wind. The named boat is owned and is the personal transport of Libjo Vice Mayor Villarosa. Names of the victims still unknown.

Correction: A farming family of 6 from Balite traveled across Libjo Bay using their own pump boat and capsized close to barangay Quezon. Three of the kids died. The family believed to be a member of Plaridel PBMA Chapter which Villarosa is the head. “Gipanggutom naman gud to sila bisan bayod niresgo lang gihapon sila kay mag kuha ug bugas sa Kaitan” our source Danny Sarsadillas said. (They’re hungry and no food to eat, so they just decided to cross to get some rice in Kaitan – barangay Plaridel).

It was mistakenly reported since the term used is "sakop ni villarosa" so literally, it is believed to be their worker and assumed they are using the punta villa pumpboat.

News: Majority of poll aspirants wanted to join PGMA ticket

In Dinagat Islands, no opposition bets were seen to go against powerhouse Ecleo political family of Congresswoman Glenda Ecleo of Lakas-NUCD. Three of the Ecleo siblings are municipal mayors of the seven towns of Dinagat Islands.

Ecleo together with Surigao del Norte Vice Governor Rodolfo Navarro were appointed by President Arroyo based on consensus with Mayors in Malacañang last 2005 to head the Lakas party in Surigao del Norte, as Lakas Provincial Chair and Vice-Chair respectively.

But House Speaker Jose De Venecia issued certificate that Surigao del Norte Governor Robert Barbers is still the Lakas Provincial Chair and his brother, Rep. Robert Ace Barbers as District Chairman.

Navarro and his group which includes Board member lawyer Victor Bernal claimed they are also fielding local bets for the local May polls but is under the Arroyo administration ticket.

Navarro wanted to run for Governor with lawyer Bernal as his running mate.

Their ally, President of the Surigao del Norte Municipal Mayors’ League, Tubod Mayor Guillermo Romarate, Jr. who repeatedly expressed in public his desire to run for Congress against incumbent Gov. Robert Lyndon Barbers who is in his last term have announced in a press conference last week that he will not run under a free zone basis.

But former Surigao del Norte Governor Francisco Matugas and his brother real estate developer, Engr. Ernesto Matugas who are also identified with the administration party KAMPI are also fielding mayoralty candidates for the 20 towns of Surigao del Norte.

The former Surigao del Norte Governor is seeking gubernatorial post he once held for three terms while his brother Ernesto is running for Surigao City Mayor also under Arroyo’s KAMPI. More...

Skirmishes of the disgruntled

Funny or horror of some sort, our sources said last January 22, 2007 a delegation is organized to welcome a MNLF General in Libjo to administer an oath of new local recruits.

Considered “Peaceful Outlaw” in some parts of southern Mindanao MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front) is gaining control and getting support from local residents. Sources said Libjo is the focal point of recruits in Dinagat Island as Dapa is in the Island of Siargao. The said recruits are supposed to be receiving an outstanding amount of P18,000.00 a month. And was believed to be the grass root of Nur Misuari’s organization to vote for him in this Senate of the Philippine Congress.

New sets of officers is lead by Major Gerry Ebrao (Commanding Officer), Captain Jose(Gotgot) Pariente, Captain Juvy Andit, Captain Abdol dela Cruz, etc, with over 100 commission officer including Leut. Baytic Ecuben, Leut. Ricky Torillo and Leut. Myrna Lisondra.

The awkward part is … these people were not muslim and is not considering converting like Robin Padilla. And I supposed not looking for a hands-on experience in Jolo, Sulu. Libjo has been long a peaceful town and insurgents free. Life still goes on as usual.

Why do we run for office?

It really makes me ponder why a person wants to own a public office? Is it because of power? For money, since public office is another kind of business? Control, so you can run a business without red tapes? Fame, so you will be popular and can spend more during fiesta or become Ninong/Ninang on every wedding? Or just simply because they cannot find a job that can makes a good living? Does it mean if only we have good livelihood we will not aspire to run for office? And what makes it so special?

It is a public office. Public officials are servants for the people not gods. People don't worship them or give them offerings. And they will not own slaves. Can anybody explain to me why he or she spends money for election to win?

FYI. I have a friend named Amstrong. He's my partner in crime during my high school days. Now he's the barangay captain in one of barangays in Libjo.

News: Dinagat officials buckle down to work

SURIGAO CITY -- It will be tough job ahead for the newly appointed interim provincial officials of the newly created province of Dinagat Islands.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was scheduled to appoint last January 19 the interim officials of the newly created province of Dinagat Islands at the San Jose Municipal Cultural Center in San Jose, Dinagat Island.

However, the President cancelled the appointment since she had a trip to Davos, Switzerland to attend the World Economic Forum.

Instead, Surigao del Norte Governor Robert Lyndon Barbers inducted the interim officials whose term of office ends after assumption of the newly elected Dinagat Islands provincial officials in the May 14, 2007 elections.

Sworn in as interim officials for newly created Province of Dinagat Islands at the San Jose Municipal Cultural Center were: Geraldine Ecleo-Villaroman as Governor, Elvis dela Merced as Vice Governor, Provincial Board members Merlinda Lagroma, Norberto Sarita Sr., Mario Menil, Zacarias Vales, Gracelyn Ecleo, Nilo P. Gulfo, and Elizabeth Ladaga.

"But most likely the same appointed interim officials will file certificate of candidacies for same position for the May 14, 2007 elections," Villaroman said.
more...

Fun to watch a fight

I don't really know if it’s written within our DNA. We love to watch a fight. Since I was a kid, it is fun to watch a fight. Games and sportsmanship? Or not just that. I spend much time looking for the best spider with my friends. Even earn some scratches just to find my number 1 spider (remember the spider with number on its back?). I love to watch it fight. Remember we keep it inside a small matchbox with compartment on it to keep it hungry?

They said, as you grow older this will change. From spider to rooster to human boxing. Then there will be a time that cycle comes back.. from boxing to rooster to spiders. No wonder I found Lolo in Libjo fighting spiders with their grandsons. Just kidding.

Anyway, we loved boxing same as cockfighting. Especially if Pacquao is in the ring. We usually make excuse to spend some money to get together so we could watch Pacquao fight. Chip-in chip-in as what we call it. We brought letson for dinner and watch them in pay per view. Proud and loud.

But did you know there is a more exciting fight that’s coming... '2007 May Election'. Do you think we'll have a good fight?

I hope it will be a peaceful election. And I love to hear from you. Who's running in your town? I'll keep you posted about ours in Libjo.

Native Fruit Favorites

Everyone in my friends when we were young believes someone (not-human) owns a native tree. A superstitious belief that someone planted, taking care and lives in those trees. So if anyone who pick fruit from that tree, he should ask permission from those owners. We do ask ‘Iyo, Iya, Manang, Manong... We are going to pick some fruits okay? Don't give us stomachaches or give us troubles’. Else, something will happen. Like some will get an accident fall, head aches or skin diseases, never know. I remember one tree believed to have a white monkey that lives on it and we don't even have local kind of monkey that lives in the island.

Native trees are usually huge and old and no one planted them. They grow in forest if not in a farm but untouched by landowners. Birds used them for shelter and source for food. And some children do :-).

Summer is the time these trees bears fruits. Exactly the same time with students has no school and lots of free time. Somewhat a lesson for survival since forests has these trees. If you know how to pick this fruits you're surely survive.

Here's a list of some of my favorites;

Bikwas
Eva
Batwan
Puyangi
Catmun
Pinu-on - Dwarfs food
Paguha - banana

During the loading of Chromite when International ships were in town aside from coconut, I do remember we use some of these fruits to barter for other goods. Foreigners loves it too. I'm wondering, do you think we can produce wine made from Puyangi or Batwan?

Jorge's Dinagat Gallery

Someone I believe needs a two thumbs up about his work! A foreigner, and he fall in love to our place. In deed his interest made him create a website and compiled photos about his visits. Jorge from Germany has interesting photo gallery about our island. Please click to this LINK.

San Jose Gamay

Barangay San Jose of Libjo also called San Jose Gamay (Little San Jose) in reference to the bigger San Jose the capital of the new island province Dinagat. San Jose is considered the breadbasket of Libjo. Located inland in the central plain, Barangay San Jose has the biggest rice and coconut field in the area. It has access to Gaas Inlet to the Pacific side of the island and situated along the provincial highway going to and from Loreto (north) and Dinagat (south). If then a surfing destination will soon be established in the ocean side of this Island, this will be the "Gateway to the Pacific".

Central to mining, once logging, farming and even fishing San Jose is located close to swamp mangrove area in Gaas Inlet and good for fish farming. And unlike Siargao this is not crocodile infested area :) .

Soil is not barren and not bad as supposed red earth on neighboring barangays. And by looking at the map since this are the central and the only wide flat land area in the island. By comparison to Siargao and Surigao Airports this will soon be the best spot for airport in the Island.

My father once made a welcome banner for the barangay and was disappointed after admitting a mistake instead of "Welcome to Barangay San Jose" he painted "Welcome to Barangay San Joe". By the way, my father's name is Jose and some call him "Joe".

Dinagat in History

A patrol of Company F. 6th Ranger Battalion, investigating a native hut on Dinagat Island in the Philippines (U.S. Army photograph)

On 17-18 October 1942 the 6th Ranger Battalion seized three islands that guarded the entrances to Leyte Gulf, clearing the way for Sixth Army's invasion of Leyte on 20 October. Encountering little opposition on Dinagat and Homonhon is lands, the Rangers installed beacons to guide the invasion fleet through the channel between them. On Suluan Island Capt. Arthur D. "Bull" Simons, commanding Company B. found the Japanese in a lighthouse surrounded by imposing cliffs on three sides and a steep trail on the fourth. In a daring night attack part of the company cut off a security detachment at the foot of the trail while the other Rangers climbed the cliffs, struck the surprised garrison from the rear, and annihilated them. Having accomplished its mission, the battalion moved to Leyte where it patrolled rear areas and served as a guard for Krueger's headquarters.

http://www.army.mil/cmh-pg/books/wwii/70-42/70-424.html

Lawigan Festival in Loreto

Will Libjo compete with Sinulog in Cebu this month? I have no idea... maybe.
By the way Libjo contingent won in Lawigan Festival contest in Municipality of Loreto last May. Celebrated in May 14-15 , “Lawigan Festival” Legends say that the First settlers of Loreto whose old name was “Mabua” came from Bohol, Leyte and Samar, Mabua came from the visayan word “Bua” which means foamy substance that usually float on the Mabua River . They formed small communities through the place w/c they termed “Lawig” which means Voyage. Each group developed its own culture. As a result, Loreto has a variety of language, customs and way of life . Hence, the “Lawigan Festival”.
Here are some of the photos from Lawigan Festival in Loreto.