SB Malay time-out for the SB Session today

Posted December 23, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

The Sangguniang Bayan of Malay has timed out in discussing the hot issues in the island of Boracay and municipality of Malay.

According to SB Secretary Concordia Alcantara, this last Tuesday is their last session for this year 2014 to give way for the celebration of Christmas and New Year.

Concordia also said that this Wednesday is the start of their vacation, hence no office in Local Government Unit of Malay.

Expectedly, the local officials of Malay will be warmly welcoming the New Year because of the celebration of the Ati-Atihan Festival in Boracay, summer season and the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit 2015.

With this regard many issues and concern such as the budget of Malay for the year 2015, construction of Boracay Hospital, trust fund of MDRRM for the repair of sea ambulance and drainage system in Boracay to name a few are pending in SB Malay before the end of session for 2014 this last Tuesday.

Establishments in Boracay increased incomes exponentially due to the influx of tourists this holiday season

Posted December 23, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Businesses’ employees in Boracay have received a record amount of orders due to the influx of tourists especially this holiday season.

According to “Joshua”, salesman, this holiday season they were already expecting the influx of tourist that is why they also have to makes “double time” in order to serve more costumers.

He added that, “as they carry out those preparations they assure a good service as well, not just only for themselves but for the tourism industry of Boracay.”

Meanwhile, it can be recalled that during holiday season there has been a left and right acoustic nights in the island which aims to provide entertainment for local and foreign tourists.

JETTY PORT: Continued growth in Boracay’s tourist market 2 days before Christmas

Posted December 22, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

Caticlan Jetty Port is now hustling to the continuing influx of tourist for their vacation in the island of Boracay two days before Christmas.

Indeed the said port this week is experiencing almost every day a long line of passengers.

Because of this the Jetty Port Administration intensified their security to the two ports especially in checking the luggage of passengers.

It was noted that two units of luggage x-ray machines are now being used in Caticlan due to the continued influx of tourists.

Meanwhile, because of vacation this holiday season the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Caticlan intensified the security especially in the inspection in roro vessels and boats, while the police officers also monitor the transport terminals.

LGU Malay launches 5th Fun Run for the environment

Posted December 22, 2014

Written by Bert Dalida

Powered by almost 200 runners from LGU Malay, Aklan Philippine National Police, Municipal Auxiliary Police – Boracay, stakeholders, volunteers and other organizations.

A "5^th Fun Run para sa Kalikasan" of local government marked the official opening of the said event aiming awareness to care Boracay and mainland Malay.

The said activity started with a registration at Balabag Plaza  where activities await the participants carrying plastic bottles.

According to a report: “The plastic bottled will be melted and make it into a plastic chairs.”

Translated by Gloria Villas

Security intensifies for MS Costa Victoria in revisiting Boracay

Posted December 19, 2014

Written by jay-Ar Arante

Cruise line security experts explain the measures the cruise industry takes to provide a safe and secure cruise vacation for passengers and how passengers can contribute to a secure environment onboard.

In this regard, the provincial government of Aklan, LGU Malay, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Department of Tourism, Maritime Police, and other agencies agreed in a meeting to intensify the security during the revisiting period of MS Costa Victoria this coming January 12, 2015 in the island of Boracay.

According to a report, “MS Costa Victoria will dock first at Puerto Princesa Palawan from Manila before it crosses to Boracay.”

The 2, 394 passengers which among European and Chinese  are  also expected to travel on Aklan’s best tourists spot and other most visited places in Boracay like Mt. Luxury, Puka Beach, D'Mall and Ati-Village while others are also set try some water activities and island hopping.

Meanwhile, MS Costa Victoria is known for its elegant and totally refurbished, new balconies, terraces and windows, as an unmistakable style that marries traditional nautical style.

According to a report, along with its 800 crews, 20% of this are Filipino.

Barangay Balusbos’ recycled Christmas tree won championship title in row

Posted December 19, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Barangay Balusbos recycled Christmas tree, has been crowned as the Christmas Tree Champion 2014 in the Malay Christmas Tree Making Contest.

The said group received the resounding amount of 50 thousand pesos in the annual event organized by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Malay thru the effort of Environmental Service Office.

According to Environmental Service Office Administrative Assistant Joery Oczon: “the said event was participated by all barangays, where recycled materials were being used for the manufacture.”

As an experienced, LGU is enthusiastic about the benefits of Christmas Tree Making Contest bring to the celebration, noting that beautiful recycled Christmas tree is being showcased.

A recycled material that was being used are bottled waters, dried coconuts, soda cans and news papers.

Meanwhile, although placed as second to Barangay Balusbos, Barangay Nabaoy won the Championship for “Street Beautification.”

It can be recalled that Malay Municipal Council has teamed up with Environmental Service Office to bring the Recycled Christmas Tree exhibition to barangays.

SB Malay to provide trust fund for maintenance and repair of sea ambulance

Posted December 18, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

The resolution allocating the fund of P4, 523, 95.03 from MDRRM trust fund is approved by the Sangguniang Bayan of Malay.

It is for the implementation of Drainage System, Repair and Maintenance of Sea Ambulance, Water System and Quick Response Fund of the Municipality of Malay.

Committee on Laws Chairman and SB member Rowen Aguirre discussed this during the 39th SB regular session where in the drainage system will be provided with P2.5 million and 1.5 million for the Sea Ambulance.

The said resolution will be discussed again for the opening of Sangguniang Bayan of Malay session for the year 2015.

BIWC: TIEZA’s pumping station still not working

Posted December 18, 2014

Written by Bert Dalida

The pump station in Boracay is apparently still not working.

This has residents up in arms and on the question of when it will be fixed, a hollow echo of nothing is the answer.

In a press conference yesterday, BIWC Customer Service Officer Acs Aldaba said, “the pumping station has not yet undergo into commissioning and testing.”

She added: “TIEZA might be waiting for the Local Government Unit’s consent for a dry-run of the said project."

In this regards, BIWC assures LGU to fix the illegal connections in existing drainage system.

Meanwhile, the problem on flooding in Boracay, which is originating from not having a drainage system, has been discussed over and over at the Town Council of Malay.

On the other hand, TIEZA’s formal opening in Boracay is awaited by many specially island stakeholders, and the Local Government of Malay, who together, with BIWC previously became the center of talks due to the faulty drainage in the island.

At the moment, TIEZA’s office is being constructed at the village of Balabag near the office of BIWC in preparation for its formal opening by end of August.

Translated by Gloria Villas

MTO designates officials in Boracay to ensure traffic this holiday season

Posted December 17, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

To ensure traffic regulation in the island of Boracay this holiday season.

Municipal Transportation Office (MTO) Malay designates officials to strictly monitor the vehicles coming in and out on the island.

Transportation Officer Cezar Oczon said in an interview: “The office is now also working hand in hand for the new signages in preparation not only for Christmas but for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit as well.”

Meanwhile, Oczon guarantee that they will provide assistance to the travelers in partnership with the police and other government agencies.

“Among our focus is also giving advice to the motorists in particular with regards to the overloading and other situations that may cause danger.” He added.

On the other hand, Oczon also advice the motorists to avoid driving away after drinking liquors.

He explains: “You are not only putting your life at risk but you are risking the lives of all those you come across while driving.”

Meanwhile, the MTO said the inspections aim to make sure the facilities are clean and made safe for vehicular traffic.

They will not also hesitate to impose penalty for those who will violate the policy and traffic laws.

Foreign/Local Tourists, Boracay residents come in droves for simbang gabi

Posted December 16, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

Thousands of Catholics flocked to Holy Rosary Parish Church in Boracay for the opening of the nine-day Misa de Gallo, an annual tradition in the runup to Christmas.

At the church, Father Arnold Crisostomo said, “the celebration honors Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, where he urged the faithful to intensify their devotion to the rosary.”

Misa de Gallo, which in Spanish means “Mass of the rooster,” consists of nine-day votive dawn Masses in preparation for Christmas.

The annual Filipino tradition begins on Dec. 16 and ends on Dec. 24, Christmas Eve.

The practice was introduced by Spanish friars so that farmers may hear Mass before going to the fields early in the morning.

Candidates prepare for "Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2015" Coronation

Posted December 16, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Candidates for the "Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2015" pageant are busy preparing for the highly anticipated coronation on January 9, 2015.

In this regard, in preparation for the grand coronation night, activities for the pageant are in full swing as well.

It can be recalled that KASAFI said, “The huge turnout of Mutya hopefuls was trimmed down to 16 from 35.”

KASAFI added:  “the screening of candidates was held on September 27 at KASAFI office based on the criteria that must be Filipino citizen, 15 to 24 years old and has a height of 5'4 and has Aklanon parents.”

Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (KASAFI) also brag that "Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2015" has become the biggest and considered as one of the prestigious event in Western Visayas.

Meanwhile, “Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan” winners will receive cash and other attractive prizes during the pageant finals.

The 16 candidates will vie for the coveted title on January 9, 2015 at Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center in Kalibo, Aklan.

Giant Christmas tree in Kalibo to be lighted up this evening

Posted December 16, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

Tonight is the awaited ceremonial lighting of Christmas tree at Pastrana Park in Kalibo.

Mayor William Lachica and local officials of Kalibo will lead the ceremonial switch-on of Christmas lights and fireworks display at 5 p.m which will be witnessed by the residents of Kalibo and its neighboring town in Aklan.

Every corner of the plaza and the trees will be decorated by beautiful and flashing Christmas lights called “Iwag it Kalibonhons”.

The construction of the gigantic Christmas tree which is based on a nativity scene and larger compared to the previous years’ is supported by Aklanons from Juneau, Alaska.

It can be recalled that the lighting of the giant Christmas tree has been the annual tradition of Kalibonhons in reminiscing the Christmas season and the Birth of Christ and in line with the start of "Misa de Gallo".

Authorities investigate person found dead in Boracay

Posted December 15, 2015

Written by Gloria Villas

Authorities are investigating after a person was found dead in Sitio Bolabog Balabag Boracay yesterday.

Authorities responded to a unit at 3:30 yesterday afternoon in front of a resort, where an unidentified person aging 30-40 years was found in a decomposing period.

Boracay Tourist Assistance Center (BTAC) confirms there is an investigation into a death there, but says it does not appear to be suspicious at this time.

Meanwhile, PCG Boracay Commander Senior Chief Petty Officer Ronnie Hiponia cleared that it was not the missing fisherman that was lost during the onslaught of typhoon Ruby.

On the other hand, Boracay Action Group and Coast Guard recovered the man, who was then transferred to Prado Funeral Homes.

Malay, Aklan claims top spot in first class municipalities in generating locally sourced revenue in the Philippines

Posted December 12, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

Municipality of Malay in the province of Aklan led the first class municipalities in generating locally sourced revenue in the Philippines.

The country’s statistical record shows: “Malay collected the highest real property taxes among the 286 first class municipalities in the Philippines with the income of 81. 23%.”

Meanwhile, second to Malay is Limay, Bataan with 79.89 percent, Carmona, Cavite is 78. 87%, Cabuyao, Laguna 69.07% General Trias Cavite 63. 65%, Calaca, Batangas 62.94%, Mauban, Quezon 61. 95%, Sual , Pangasinan 59. 16%, Tagaloan, Misamis Oriental 58. 59% and Norzagaray with a local income of 58.38%.

In this regard, citizens of Malay were thankful with the town’s ranking considering the island of Boracay as the main reason for the increasing income.

Malay, Aklan is the only town in Region 6 known as one of the top first class municipalities.

LGU Malay accumulates ‘Action Plan’ for Badjao in Boracay

Posted December 12, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Boracay meets complicated cases where indigenous (Badjao) were involved in begging and conning the tourists.

In this regard, LGU Malay now accumulates ‘Action Plan’ for the said problem.

However, LGU Malay admits having difficulties in handling the problem while being careful with the process, because of the law protecting indigenous people and children involved with the mentioned cases.

According to Boracay Island Chief Operations Officer Glenn Sacapaño, recently just over 20 indigenous (Badjao) delivered to the mainland from the island.

Sacapaño added that they are not just monitoring the “badjaos” but also children begging in Boracay.

He said: “This has a tremendous effect to the influx of tourist especially this coming Christmas Season and New Year.”

Meanwhile, LGU Malay will again discuss the matter with the Commission on Human Rights and National Commission for Indigenous People (NCIP) for the possible solution.

Barge who is loading, motorcycle without permit going to Boracay may subject to violation

December 11, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

Barge who is loading motorcycle without permit going to the island of Boracay may subject to a violation.

Malay Transportation Regulation Senior Officer Cesar Oczon Jr., said that there is an owners of motorcycle without a permit approaching to operators of barge to corvine their motorcycles across the island.

He also said that if catch the owner of the motorcycle they going to face a fined same as the barge who load the vehicle.

It was noted that over two thousands motorcycle now operating in the island except from no permits.

Oczon also advised to those who are planning to enter their motorcycle in Boracay that they need to follow the proper procedure to avoid fines or confiscation of their unit.

Meanwhile, in case the operator violated various violations it may happened to get back their motorcycle in the island at face the fine subject for them.

Korean Association offering Php50, 000 rewards for Jin Woo Lee’s shooting suspect

Posted December 11, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Korean Association is offering a Php50, 000 rewards for any information identifying a gun man/suspects who shot Korean national Jin Woo Lee while walking near his rented apartment in Sitio Bolabog in Boracay.

On November 26, spa manager Jin Woo Lee was walking along Bolabog road when two unidentified suspects shot him, where he suffered two gunshot wounds in his lower right armpit.

Meanwhile, Korean Association said in a statement that: “The said incident which was happened last month might have a tremendous effect on Boracay’s tourism industry.”

However, away from this BTAC has already prepared one of the suspects’ cartographic sketches based on the description of one of the witnesses to the crime and now waiting for the victim’s recovery headed for suspects’ cartographic sketch.

Anyone with information is urged to call the BTAC at 288-3066, or 09075036235.

SB Malay resent having zero casualties during Typhoon Ruby

Posted December 10, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

The Sangguniang Bayan of Malay resent having zero casualties during Typhoon Ruby.

In the 38th SB Session yesterday SB member Rowen Aguirre said during his privilege speech that they have zero casualty of the recent Typhoon Ruby in the province of Aklan.

It can be recalled that the province was under signal number 2, although it brought only light wind and moderate rain.

It was learned that prior to the coming of storm in the province, the Local Government Unit of Malay had been prepared together with the concerned agencies in mainland and the island of Boracay Malay.

In this regard also the readiness of the residents in the area caused no recorded incidents related to the storm.

Meanwhile, the SB Malay extend their greetings to all who help them about it which now the operation of boat is back to normal in conjunction with re-influx of tourists in Boracay Island.

BTAC eyed 3 motives in Korean national shooting; suspects’ cartographic sketch, prepared

Posted December 10, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Boracay Tourist Assistance Center (BTAC) now looking into three motives on Korean national’s case, who was shot by unidentified suspects in the island of Boracay.

According to Officer on Case Police Officer 1 Alan Zamora, they couldn’t reveal the motives yet since that they are still waiting for the victim’s recovery headed for suspects’ cartographic sketch.

However, away from this BTAC has already prepared one of the suspects’ cartographic sketches based on the description of one of the witnesses to the crime.

Meanwhile, it can be recalled that Korean national Jin Woo Lee was walking near his rented apartment in Sitio Bolabog in Barangay Balabag on November 26 when two unidentified suspects shot the Korean national, who suffered two gunshot wounds in his lower right armpit.

Lee is now in stable condition at the Panay Health Care Multi-purpose Cooperative Hospital in Kalibo, Aklan.

Stranded passengers in Caticlan Jetty Port still unable to leave

Posted December 9, 2014

Written by Jay-Ar Arante

Stranded passengers going to Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, and Batangas City are expected to stay longer in Caticlan Jetty port.

This was due to the threat of bad weather brought by Typhoon Ruby in some areas of Northern Luzon and Mindoro Island, as per reports from PAGASA.

Caticlan Jetty Port Special Operations Officer III Jean Pontero said that the total number of stranded passengers in their protection is 39.

According to Pontero, passengers from different provinces in Region 6 were stranded since Friday after the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) released an advisory suspending vessels’ operation because of Typhoon Ruby.

She added that that they continue to provide food to the passengers until the operation of the RoRo vessels are ‘Okayed’.

Meanwhile, motorbancas in Caticlan and Cagban Vice resumed operation after it was cancelled due to said typhoon.

AKELCO: 100% restore power lines in Aklan, days after typhoon Ruby crosses the province

Posted December 9, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

No major damages to power lines in Aklan.

This was the striking message of Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) days after typhoon Ruby crosses the province December 7, 2014.

According to Arvin Ibesate of AKELCO, to ensure public safety they are following the continuous inspection, repair and restoration of power lines in province.

AKELCO’s report says: “Problems that occur are only wires that have been partially damage due to plunging branches of trees or some that has been leak.”

However, AKELCO cleared that it was already resolved by their office.

Meanwhile, AKELCO stressed that their office is open to any problems that might mount to them and thus, they have committed their best efforts to speed-up power restoration to alleviate the plight of the member-consumers affected by calamities.

Boracay evacuees can now go back to their humble abodes

Posted December 8, 2014

Written by: Jay-ar M. Arante

Mayor John Yap of Malay, Aklan has allowed the evacuees to return to their respective homes after the typhoon Ruby (International name: Hagupit) has taken another course, going to Mindoro area.

Although Aklan is still under storm signal number 1, the typhoon will no longer have any impact to the whole province of Aklan, most especially the island of Boracay.

It was noted that more than 400 families were evacuated to designated evacuation centers provided by the Local Government Unit of Malay.

Aside from Boracay, residents from the coastal barangays in mainland Malay were also allowed to go home.

On the other hand, Mayor Yap prohibited the citizens to swim in the waters of Boracay until the storm signal is not yet lifted.

Meanwhile, there were no listed incidents by the LGU regarding Typhoon Ruby because of the immediate and quick preparation and coordination of the mainland Malay and Boracay Island Citizens.

PDRRMC Aklan still determining, validating Ruby casualties

Posted December 8, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) Aklan still determining and validating Ruby casualties in the province.

Office of the Aklan PDRRMC Exec. Officer Galo Ibardolaza said: “So far, there has been no reported damages in Aklan neither those who were injured in the disaster.”

Indeed, their agencies were currently monitoring municipalities in the province.

On the other hand, Ibardolaza reminded the residents to be still more watchful especially those who were evacuated coming from low-lying areas.

However, based on the latest weather reports, typhoon Ruby weakens while it crosses the Sibuyan Sea.

The Official Gazette quoted PAGASA as saying that as of 8 a.m., Ruby weakened into a tropical storm with maximum winds of 105 kph and gustiness of 135 kph.

Dot Region 6 issued advisory regarding to typhoon Ruby

Posted December 6, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 6 issued advisory today because of the incoming typhoon Ruby on Eastern and Western Visayas.

Based on this all stranded foreign and domestic tourist who may need assistance due to cancellation of trips of sea transports can report to their office.

Regard to this, DOT Regional Director Helen Catalbas said to the hotel and resort owners in Boracay that their guest will check out in the time of typhoon Ruby will give consideration to stay until the storm is gone.

Catalbas concerned to those, because of they cannot pull through in mainland due to the cancellation of the trip by sea and air transport.

On the other hand the said agency advice to all island hopping activities should be cancelled/differed until such time that the Philippine Coastguard shall have issued a favorable advisory for these.

Classes in Aklan suspended due to 'Ruby'

Posted December 5, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Classes for Friday in Aklan have been suspended by the Department of Education (DepEd) in the following areas which are expected to be affected by heavy rains dumped by Typhoon “Ruby”.

Office of the Department of Education (DepEd) Aklan Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Jesse Gomez said in a letter that: “In anticipation of the onslaught of typhoon “Ruby”, national government have announced suspension of classes from Thursday (December 4) until Friday (December 5).

Meanwhile, the DepEd reminded the public of its rules on the automatic suspension of classes due to tropical cyclones.

More than 44 provinces along Ruby’s path have also been declared as critical areas, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration earlier released a list of critical areas due to the typhoon.

LGU Malay prepares Ati-Atihan Festival 2015 “Higante Contest”

Posted December 4, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

Local Government Unit (LGU) Malay is now preparing for the Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival 2015 “Higante Contest.”

Indeed, Municipal Mayor John Yap request for an authority to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Provincial Government of Aklan with regards to the financial assistance for the said contest and Aklan Festival Parade.

During the SB Regular Session, the council talks about the said MOA for the incoming referral and agreed that it will be deferred on the Committee on Laws and Ordinances by presiding officer Vice Mayor Wilbec Gelito for further study.

It can be recalled that Aklan Provincial Government provides financial assistance for the 17 municipalities but has not yet been released.

Meanwhile, the “Higante Contest” is one of the highlights of Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival this coming January 9-18, 2015.

MDRRMC Malay preparations for “Hagupit” underway

Posted December 4, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) Malay started to gather their respective disaster councils this morning apparently to activated their preparedness mechanisms” for the upcoming tropical storm with international code named “Hagupit.”

In this regard, MDRRMC likewise advised different sectors to coordinate with local governments to monitor coastal areas for storm surges.

It also instructed local disaster risk reduction and management offices to monitor areas for possible preemptive evacuation, report said.

The MDRRMC will monitor the progress of Hagupit, which is expected to landfall on Saturday in parts of eastern Visayas and Bicol region.

It said, “The typhoon is then expected to cross the Visayas – Samar, Leyte, northern part of Cebu, northern part Panay, southern part of Bicol – by Sunday, December 7, if current forecasts hold.”

The state-run weather agency has reportedly dismissed fears that the typhoon “will be as strong as typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) but it will be strong nonetheless to cause storm surges, destroy agricultural farms and blow away houses made of light materials.”

However PAGASA reportedly said that “Hagupit” is strong but it won’t be as strong as Yolanda.

MTO to decide on lifting of tricycle moratorium in Boracay

Posted December 3, 2014

Written by Jay-ar Arante

Malay Transportation Office (MTO) now discussed the moratorium on tricycle operations in the island of Boracay should be lifted or not.

This is because according to their observation, the problem in increasing number of tricycle in the island is due to the absence of a moratorium.

According to Malay Transportation Regulation Senior Officer Cesar Oczon Jr., there are now 2, 681 tricycle in Boracay which have not been claimed of having a permit to operate on the island.

Meanwhile, MTO said that they are still waiting on the orders coming from LGU Malay while they still continue on processing the permit.

Moreover, more than 40 motorcycle unit was recently impounded by the MTO because of its involvement in different violation.

New base commander of Philippine Army Boracay gets a warm welcome

Posted December 3, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

The new commander of Philippine Army Boracay has said the importance of the security in the island remains strong after he took over the prestigious role in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Capt. Hans Oliver Beerneza said: “there was “consistent evidence of command fingerprints across every organization” in the area as he took charge of the 3^rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army Boracay Detachment.

During the Joint Flag Raising Ceremony at Station 2 Boracay, Malay Mayor John Yap proudly introduced the new head official to the  Boracay Action Group (BAG).

In this regard, the Mayor again urged all government agencies in Boracay, even the private sector to work together for the island.

Meanwhile, Philippine Army Boracay also expressed their gratitude for the cooperation they had been received while ensuring the security on the island.

Different organizations in Boracay joined the World AIDS Day celebration

Posted December 2, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

Boracay Island joined the celebration of World AIDS Day.

This is to show support to people with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

The Municipal Health Center (MHO) together with the Boracay Action Group, Philippine Red Cross, Boracay PNP and other organizations in the island led the parade for Aids Walk yesterday.

The parade from beach front station 3 to station 2 was followed by a ‘candle lighting’ and a short awareness campaign program.

Due to the continuing spread of HIV/AIDS in the country, the MHO have made a free-AIDS consultation yesterday in the island.

Meanwhile, the World Aids Day is celebrated on the first day of December in different parts of the world to promote unity in fighting the deadly HIV.

KASAFI: Ati-Atihan Festival 2015 preparations at 70%

Posted December 2, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (KASAFI) said it is 70 percent ready for the festivities of the 2015 Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival.

According to KASAFI Chairman Albert Meñez, “They are now ready for various activities such as "Mutya it Aklan", Higante Parade, body painting contest and presenting some famous artists in the country.”

Meanwhile, KASAFI  is also working to organize Ati-Atihan Fun Run, Ati-Atihan Zumba Fest, fun cycling ride and Balikbayan Night to attract merrymakers and balikbayans to experience Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, Aklan.

Meñez added, “Final plans for the festival are also in place in coordination with the local police, the Diocese of Kalibo, the municipal government of Kalibo, the provincial government of Aklan and other stakeholders.”

The celebration will commence on January 9 until January 18, 2015 in honor of Señor Sto. Niño de Kalibo.

Aklan PHO joins World Aids Day

Posted December 1, 2014

Ni Jay-ar M. Arante, YES FM Boracay

The Aklan Provincial Health Office (PHO) annually joins the Worlds Aids Day every month of December.

Aklan Provincial Health Officer Dr. Cornelio Cuachon Jr., said that they have been joining the celebration for almost 14 years.

Different activities are scheduled as part of their AIDS or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome awareness campaign, with the theme "Let’s Getting to Zero".

On the other hand, PHO is worried about the increase of HIV/AIDS cases in Western Visayas.

There were 183 new cases has been recorded from January to September this year and on this September, 14 cases has been recorded.

From 1984, 700 cases of HIV/AIDS were recorded in Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo at Negros Occidental.

Boracay Photographers Association speaks about ordinance 168

Posted November 28, 2014

Written by Jay-ar M. Arante

The Boracay photographers association speaks about the ordinance 168, despite the scheduled committee hearing for the photo shooting activity in Boracay yesterday didn’t went through.

Boracay Photographer Association President Ernesto Cruz said that the ordinance released by the LGU Malay 168 is a protection for them photographers.

Cruz said that the ordinance has limitations depending on the photographers or photo shooting activity.

Meanwhile, he stressed that the said ordinance which they have supported already existed for several years, yet they were surprised about the netizens negative comments.

Recently, the ordinance became a hot topic for the netizens because some of them find the ordinance discriminating.

The ordinance prohibits commercial photo shooting in Boracay if a photographer has no permit from the LGU Malay.

If anyone is caught in violation of the ordinance 168, he may be subject for a fine or confiscation of cameras.

SP Aklan schedules Committee Hearing for the Malay supplemental budget on Monday

Posted November 28, 2014

Written by Gloria Villas

After looking into Malay’s request for a P91, 690,075.06 supplemental budgets, which will be used to fund the projects in the municipality.

Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Aklan now schedules a Committee Hearing for the Malay supplemental budget on Monday.

It can be recalled that the council agreed to defer the resolution from SB Malay for further study.

Of the said supplemental budget proposed by Sangguniang Bayan of Malay, funds will be allocated for previously approved projects, and will go to obligations arising from infrastructure projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Meanwhile, the remaining portion of the supplemental budget will be used to fund reconstruction efforts and other government projects in several Malay barangays.