Arise Davao 2013: Light Will Shine

Ministers and youth leaders from various churches and denominations in Davao City comprise Arise Philippines Youth Movement.We bridge the youth and young adults to rise up for Jesus and reach out those who are still in the world of sin.

The movement accepts the annual challenge to take the lead in mobilizing young generation to stand for Jesus through CONFERENCE, COMMUNITY OUTREACH and CONCERT

In partnership with ARISE ASIA based in Australia and in collaboration with Davao City Churches, we want the city to witness the following:

1) To see hundreds of young people added to local churches;

2) To further the inspiration and enthusiasm of those who are already serving the Lord;

3) To mobilize the youth and young adults in serving the community through community outreach;

4) To lift up the name of Jesus with our brothers and sisters from all churches while working hand in hand for His glory and honor.

We would like to appeal to every church in the city to be one of our partners to make this goal achievable in making this event more successful.Together, we can continue what has been started in mobilizing our  young generation, giving them an opportunity to experience greater impact in their personal lives.Thus, allowing them to experience transformation and eventually become a blessing to their family,to the church  as well as in the community.

For more details log on to our website www.arisedavao.com or visit our facebook page www.facebook.com/arisedavao

Love in Action

I never thought I would take part in any movement. I rarely go out and I didn't like being around with many people so I didn't expect seeing myself doing community service. My focus were solely on my family and my studies. I don't even pay attention to different extra-curricular activities in school.However, time leads me to get involved in my community and in my city when I was an elected youth official, to be part of a children's advocacy after college and to have the chance to become a volunteer in Arise Philippines Youth Movement Incorporated.

I firmly believe in the power of 'we'.I've been inspired with the vision of Arise which is standing for what we believe in and becoming a channel of change for next generation by conducting conference for youth  leaders, medical, dental and optical services, child feeding, giving away free medicines and construction of public toilet.

On July 31, we were in Barangay 31-D where the community toilet is constructed for the official turn-over.With the help of the Australians who have burden for Davao, the vision has turned into a reality.Arise Davao 2013 is looking forward to donating another toilet that will be located in Matina Aplaya. A study shows that there's a presence of  coliforms in Punta Dumalag caused by improper waste disposal of people living along the shoreline. With this, Arise has chosen the said barangay where the project will be implemented.

The movement believes that helping a community by giving support to the septage and sewage ordinance of the city will give honor to the Creator of everything and not to man.It requires passion to get yourself involved. You don't need to be in the position to lend a hand.Giving service is one way of showing your love.

"True success can only be measured at the end of our lives by how we utilized what we had to serve society and honor God.This is the only success that can never be taken away from you" -Book of Hope

Arise Davao Project

On the last day of July this year, the humanitarian project of Arise Davao is officially turned over to the constituents of Barangay 31-D in Boulevard.Spearheaded by the national coordinator of Arise Philippines Youth Movement, Incorporated in the person of Rev.Danny Lagdamen, we witness how the barangay officials gratefully accept the responsibility in maintaining the sanity of the newly constructed public common toilet.

Along with us are the personnel from the local government who remind the residents on the importance of having one in their community. Signing the memorandum of agreement followed after the cutting of ribbon.

This project is made possible through the initiative of individuals who look after the safety, cleanliness and development of Davao in support to the septage and sewerage ordinance of the city.People with a heart of gold has made this vision into a reality.In partnership with Arise Asia, this has been a success. Above all, God has made everything possible.

The construction of public toilet in the said area is part of the humanitarian outreach of Arise Davao 2012 event.The volunteers understand that the people in Purok 8 don't have septic tanks and most of them can hardly afford to build their own comfort room.Thus, leaving their human waste to the coastal area.

To God be all the glory.

The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine , you did for me"- Matthew 25:40

Kublai Photos

Below are only some of the photos taken by Kublai that are currently exhibited in People's Park in line with the celebration of Kadayawan Festival in Davao.I only have my mobile phone to capture these pictures.

The National Animal- Carabao

The Tallest Mountain in the Philippines- Mt. Apo

A Native from Mindanao

The Beauty of Mindanao

Indak Indak sa Kadalanan which is a street dance will be on August 18 and the Flower Float Parade that showcases the different varieties of flowers found in the city will be on the 19th. There's much to do during the celebration. The prices of fruits go down so you can enjoy the fruits of Davao. Roam around the city with your family and friends to enjoy the festivity! Happy 27th Kadayawan Davao!

Series of Robbery and Murder in Davao

The security and safety of Davao City is currently questioned by my fellow constituents due to the robbery and killings that is currently happening. We are all alarmed with the sudden death of six women in a week! It's very shocking to know that the peaceful Davao is attacked by terrorists! Davao is known to be one of the most livable city in the country but as of now, we are afraid to walk alone in the streets of Davao even in the broad daylight. The death of the victims has warned us to be more careful.

We celebrate the birth of Davao on the 16th of March and it's not a good sign to begin the celebration. It gives us worries. How can we enjoy it if we don't know who's the victim and where in Davao it will happen?

With the incidents going on right now, some Dabawenyos call for the attention of DDS. There's no certainty that it exists though. Nobody distinctively claimed that he is the one who created it. Davao Death Squad as I heard punishes the violators of the law that allows summary execution. I can't point a certain person responsible for the death of the suspects. I am aware that our vice mayor Rodrigo Duterte is very vocal in making the public know that he doesn't want the presence of robbers, drug pushers, bombers, and other perpetrators of crimes in the city but is his statement below will confirm the rumors? I'm not drawing any conclusion here so the idea now depends on every individual.

My sincere condolences to the family of the victims. The victims were all women and it gives us terror. It hinders us from going out with confidence.Having this thing in Davao is like a nightmare. I'm not used to living in this kind of place that puts our life at stake when outside home. I want the old Davao back. A simple yet safe city that promises good life to the residence of Davao.

"We will not tolerate crimes, rest assured that the City Government and the Davao City Police Office are working on it." -Mayor Sara Duterte

To the people of Davao, be watchful. Be extra careful. Be aware of the announcement and pay attention to the current news. Let your family and friends know about it and pray for our city.

Angel's Walk

Angels with Autism Walk is an annual walk that happened around SM Mall last month. There was a short program at the entertainment area.I saw the kids perform and everybody's happy to see them trying to give their best. Services are offered for the children with special needs such as Persons With Disability or PWD I.D registration, distribution of Vitamin A and deworming tablets plus pedia consultation.

Angel's Walk is brought to us by Austism Society of the Philippines participated by the following schools in Davao:

• RICAFI- Rainbow Intervention Center for Autism Foundation Incorporated
• DCSS- Davao City Special School Bangkal
• DSSFI- Davao Stepping Stone Foundation, Incorporated
• DAICFI- Davao Autism Intervention Center Foundation Incorporated
• AME- Academy of Multiple Intelligences Education of Davao Incorporated
• ILLC- Independent Living Learning Center
• Anchorage School

  See more photos

There's also a special participation by DSAPI (Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Incorporated). It was great to see the kids again after the long Christmas holiday break.

Waling Waling as Philippines' National Flower- A Good Idea?

A fragrant small white flower called sampaguita is the national flower of the Philippines I have known since I was a kid.It is chosen because of the fact that sampaguita is popular in Filipino legends and it's ornamental use.But the bill submitted by Davao City Representative Mylene Garcia-Albano makes me believe that it makes sense. It is a proposal making the Queen of Philippine Orchids which is Waling Waling to be the new symbol of Philippine flower.Why? Because of the following reasons:

• Waling Waling has wide and colorful petals that reflects the hopeful attitude of Filipinos.Whereas, the simplicity of Sampaguita I think is no longer suitable nowadays.
• Waling Waling  grows on tall hardwood tropical trees reaching for the sunlight as it climbs that symbolizes Filipinos perseverance and love for hard work. The flower has commensalism kind of relationship on trees that refers to the good relationship of the Philippines to our allied nations.Unlike sampaguita that stays on the ground that may be described as a Filipino who is contented and doesn't dream big.
• When you look at waling waling you see bright future, long-term goals and worldwide achievements.Sampaguita, on the other hand, settles only for what we have when change, innovation and recreation is possible!
• Waling Waling is like a modern Filipino but sampaguita looks like a traditional one that is contented.Its white color however that symbolizes purity is a good thing. (I don't think my readers agree to second sentence though.)
• Waling Waling is endemic in Davao, Sultan Kudarat, Zamboanga and other parts of Mindanao.The native country of waling waling is indeed in the Philippines.I remember entering Filipino houses having different kinds of orchids in their gardens which is very common.On the contrary, sampaguita is a foreign flower from India and Arabia.

It's not because I live in Davao and I'm from Mindanao that's why I'm promoting this. Yes, I take pride because waling waling originally came from my city but I think making the Philippine Orchid as the National Flower in the Philippines is a good idea.

I'm pointing out the national spirit. I would agree that the national symbol of a country should reflect to the national character and vision of its constituents. Modern Filipinos have high aspirations. In my opinion, it's better to make a change. Waling waling defines Davao, Mindanao and Philippines as a whole. 

The second largest and easternmost island in the Philippines (Mindanao) is blessed with bountiful harvest, mineral deposits and beautiful flowers with its vast and rich forest. Let's not be blinded with the kidnappings, bombings and peace issues going on. Try to find out other good things about the land of promise.

House of Hope

As part of the eight year celebration of my niece's preparatory school which is Tumble Tots, kindergarten and prep students are invited to take part in the inauguration of the Library project in House of Hope built inside the perimeter of Southern Philippines Medical Center. They are encourage to be there to develop their social awareness and concern for other kids who are less fortunate.

My niece Lexi at the entrance

They had story telling inside the mini library.They are flipping the pages of the books. Young minds are normally happy to see new set of books.The tots and the kids in the center are happy to see Tumby- the school's mascot and enjoyed the snacks together. I always feel good to be in this kind of institution. I am thankful I have the chance to be there.

The tots and residents of House of Hope

  
See more photos: Visiting House of Hope at SPMC

Crocodile Lolong

A 21-foot female saltwater crocodile that was believed to have eaten a carabao and a fisherman is finally captured alive in Barangay Nueva, Bunawan Agusan del Sur. I heard this reptile that weighs a tonne can break a world record with its size. It can be the  biggest living crocodile in the world. Government officials say that it can attract visitors and boost tourism in their vicinity.Residents of the province are happy when 'lolong' was captured. It is named after a person who died in pursuing its captivity. 

The people of Agusan del Sur fear a bigger crocodile in the area that roams freely and threatens to harm. Captors prepare a good strategy to keep the people safe. It's an animal right to keep her alive. Officials have moved lolong to its new home where curious individuals can watch and take a photo of the rising croc in the province.

Kadayawan 2011 Floral Float Parade

Replica of an eagle, durian and lumad people made from fresh flowers and native raw materials stand out in yesterday's floral float parade!The Pamulak sa Kadalanan is one of the highlights of Kadayawan 2011 Festival. Dabawenyos filled the major streets of Davao to see these parade of bountiful flowers that are found in Davao.

Filipino celebrities normally participated in this event.Coco Martin, Melissa Ricks, Enchong Dee, Erich Gonzales, Lauren Young, Marian Rivera, Sid Lucero, Roxanne Barcelo and the rest of the cast of Amaya were just a meter away from me. They are not definitely the main reason why I came to downtown area.It's just a bonus for me.

I'm more on seeing what the people of Davao have come up out of the resources that we have.The different flowers I saw yesterday made me totally happy!

I have lived in Davao for quarter of a century but I just fully enjoyed the view on Pamulak sa Kadalanan. I used to watch it on TV but to be with my fellow Dabawenyos feels different. There's pride and belonging I feel within.

Exposing myself under the heat of the sun is awfully uncomfortable.But seeing the photos I took as I head back home made me forget how pink my nose and cheeks were! I was awed with the Avatar-inspired float! Unluckily I didn't have a good shot of the said entry so I can't add it here. Mabuhay ang Kadayawan 2011 Festival!

Indak Indak sa Davao 2011

Twenty two participants from Davao and neighboring cities participated in Indak Indak sa Kadalanan in celebration of Kadayawan Festival 2011. The program reminds every Dabawenyo of how bountiful our city is. It refreshes the richness of Davao's culture.It was indeed tiring to be there where a lot people struggled to have a comfortable place but it was worth staying.

The winners are the following:

Davao-based Category

Magallanes Elementary School-Grand Champion (Php 150,000)

Jesus Soriano Elementary School-2nd Place (Php 100,000)

Sta. Ana national Highschool-3rd Place (Php 70,000)

Cesario Villa Abrille National High School-4th Place (Php 50,000)

Sto. Nino National High School, Tugbok District 25 (Php 25,000)

Open Category

Purok Sison Elementary School, Surallah South Cotabato-Grand Champion (Phph 300,000)

Sto. Nino, South Cotabato- 2nd Place (Php 200,000)

Isulan Sultan Kudarat-3rd Place (Php 150,000)

New Bataan National High School, Comval Province- 4th Place (Php 100,000)

Sarmiento Central Elementary School-5th Place (Php 50,000)

Tupi, South Cotabato-6th Place (Php 25,000)

Senator Chiz Escudero and former senator Migs Zubiri gave a short message. Marian Rivera and the rest of the cast of GMA's TV series which is Amaya dropped by at Rizal Park for their road tour.

It was hard to get close to the stage where the participants perform. A barricade with policemen forbid us from getting through.Coordinators, photo enthusiasts and official photographers are the only ones allowed.I stood in front of a policeman for an hour where I can barely see the performances. However, I was lucky to get in! Ten people went out and the policeman allowed also the same number to finally get in. I had a clear view then of yesterday's competition while seated on a bleacher. It wasn't easy to see little children having a hard time with their parents because of their willingness to witness the Indak Indak.If only I could help them. I heard people murmuring around me. They curse the policemen for not letting them in. Well, I understand.It's the authority's job to secure the place and to control the people to avoid unwanted accidents. Live telecast is an option that those people perhaps didn't realize.

Kadayawan 2011 Opening Ceremony

The king of all festivals which is Kadayawan was officially opened yesterday at People's Park headed by Mayor Inday Sara Duterte.There was a mass going when I arrived followed by a formal program. The contestants of Hiyas ng Kadayawan 2011 were seated on the stage along with some councilors and the people behind the annual festival.The said event was participated by different dance troupes in different schools in the city.The park was filled with spectators and colorful costumes wore by the performers.
 

I caught an eye on some foreigners who were having fun while taking some photos. Lucky for them that they are able to witness how Dabawenyos celebrate our thanksgiving!

Mayor Inday gives the signal that Kadayawan 2011 is open by beating a gong.The moment she stops speaking we saw butterflies being freed and the dancing fountain starts to splash some water!That marks that we are ready for the celebration.

I had fun watching my fellow Dabawenyos doing our native dance. They remind us of how rich our culture is and the ten tribes present in Davao. The cultural show of differently-abled children from DS Foundation was the last part I witnessed there.

Kadayawan 2011

Another year of delightful celebration is about to come in Davao City. Kadayawan 2011 with the theme Ten Tribes, One Vibe will make the major streets of Davao colorful and full of people with a smile on their faces that will officially open on August 15 (Monday). Kadayawan is an annual festivity and thanksgiving celebration for  the city's bountiful harvest, rich culture, peaceful living and well-preserved nature that falls on the third week of the month.However, there's a month-long celebration by catering different shows and competitions by the local government of Davao.

The two major and highlighted events will be the "Indak-indak sa Kadalanan", a street dancing competition that will start from Magsaysay Avenue to Rizal Park and "Pamulak sa Kadalanan", a floral float parade.Lisette Marquez, the festival director said these two events will take place in the morning to save the kids from getting wet because of unpredictable rain that we have in the afternoon.Expect to have "Hiyas ng Kadayawan", a pageant that features the representatives of every tribe present in the city. There are also fair trades, exhibits, and other related activities that will cater the talents and abilities of Dabawenyos.

Schedule of Activities:

• Dayaw Dabaw Street Market in Palma Gil Street (August 12-21)
• Kadayawan 2011 Opening Ceremony in People's Park (August 15)
• Hudyakaan in Roxas Avenue (August 15-22)
• Indigenous People Crops and Crafts Trade Fair in People's Park (August 16-21)
• Hiyas ng Kadayawan: Talent Night (August 16 
• Sayaw Mindanaw in SM (August 16-18)
• Hiyas ng Kadayawan: Coronation Night (August 17)
• Indigenous People Performance Showcase in Gaisano Mall (August 18)
• Indigenous People Performance Showcase in Rizal and people's Park (August 19)
• Pahalipay ni Mayor ug Vice Mayor in Rizal Street-Free Concert and Entertainment (August 19)
• Indak-indak sa Kadalanan August 20)
• Tunog Mindanaw in Abreeza Mall (August 20)
• Pamulak sa Kadalanan (August 20 21)
• Moda Mindanaw in SM Davao (August 21)
• Pasasalamat in Lantawan Hall and Mandaya Hotel (August 21)
• Pahalipay ni Mayor ug Vice Mayor 2 in Rizal Street- Free Concert and Entertainment (August 21)

Mayor Sara Duterte Punches Court Sheriff Aby Andres

I wouldn't say that the thing did by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte to RTC Court Sheriff Aby Andres is right.Giving punches to your subordinate in public is undeniably mean and improper if you consider yourself as a public servant and an effective leader.On the other hand, I understand why she had done it. Davao suffers flashflood at that time and she was busy attending the victims. She didn't expect the chaos that broke out when she  arrived in Soliman, Barangay Monteverde Agdao.There was an exchange of  undesirable acts between the demolition team and the residents.

Mayor Sara asked for a 2-hour extension so she could be there during the demolition.What she wants was to avoid such occurences that really took place when her request was not given prior attention. She was extremely fuming the moment she saw the sherrif that blocked all her senses.Problems flowed over her that she was unable to hold her temper that resulted to an injured sheriff.Perhaps Mayor Sara feels that respect is not served when her wish was not granted.She then decided to send Aby to the hospital to be checked and get admitted if there's a need.

On a national TV news station, a text poll was made and the result says majority of Filipino people are not cursing the mayor for doing so.The vice mayor Rodrigo Duterte who happens to be his father tells his daughter not to worry if she loses her political position and license as a lawyer  after the incident.The vice mayor believes that what her daughter did was just to defend the poor people in the city and that's what the Dutertes are for.

I don't admire  the fact that Mayor Sara was able to throw punches to a man. The kind of heart she has for the needy ones is what I am proud of.

Flashflood Awakens Davao

Twenty seven people are recorded dead as of this morning after the flashflood hit four barangays in Davao City namely; Matina Pangi, Matina Crossing,Matina Aplaya and Talomo Proper. It damaged the bridges, houses, cars and other properties of Dabawenyos. An emergency meeting was called yesterday by Mayor Inday Sara to give immediate aid to the affected residents. An amount of P170 Million calamity fund will be used to help the victims.

The following agencies also show their support by giving funds:

• Social Services Development Office (CSSDO)-P26M
• City Engineer's Office (CEO)-P20M
• City Agriculturist's Office (CAO)- P1M
• City Veterenarian's Office (CVO)- P1M
• City Health Office (CHO)-P2M
• Central 911- P1.5M

I'd suggest that the national and local government should be more strict in imposing proper waste disposal. Waste management should be clearer to every Dabawenyo living in the city. It's the duty of barangay officials to check that it's properly implemented in every village to prevent this kind of disaster.

Faces of the Down

I was very delighted when I saw the individual photos of the members of Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines (DSAPI) in a frame mounted in a wall at SM Davao last December.The photo exhibit by Artgraphix with the cooperation of Bounce Photography made the people of Davao know that they exist. Exposing these children to public would gain respect and acknowledgement that despite their disability they are able to live a happy and healthy life with the presence of their loving family and the people who value them as part of our society.

We were there during the cutting of ribbon. Some parents could not wait to see the photos. The exhibit lasted for a week. The displayed photos of the kids are for sale for the benefit of the organization. Then the framed photo will be given to the child with his image.I asked my friends and some of my relatives to see the photos. They might like to buy one. To my surprise, all the photos were sold in just three days! That was really good news!

I would like to express my gratitude to all who came and responded to our call. Christmas season was indeed a joyful one to the downs and to their family as well.I might not be as active as I was since I'm no longer in Davao but my heart remains faithful to them. Although I can't join in their activities this year, I always pray for their success.

See more photos : DSAPI Davao Photo Exhibit

Darong,Sta.Cruz

Darong is a simple barangay that belongs to the municipality of Sta Cruz in the province of Davao del Sur.Going there was unplanned.I didn't expect it.It's nice to see the place though.San Miguel Corporation is one of the large investors in the area.We were invited to a birthday celebration and we passed by a diagnostic center called SMB Community Clinic put up by San Miguel Brewery Incorporated.

I saw some animals there.The parrot we've seen at Crash Landing Resort entertained us much.The moment we get closer to its cage,it started showing off! In fact I took a video of it.It looks really funny! I saw horses, different breeds of dog and a little monkey named Lupen.

The barangay is cool with the presence of green trees.I could see mountains.Their means of transportation is motorcycle with a sidecar so it looks like a tricycle.I could imagine a simple life for people who live in Darong.There's no shopping mall and only the main road has got light posts.

Water is Life

The day has come.Global conversation through Blog Action Day 2010 has finally arrived!It is indeed an inspiring blog activism that will be trending on the web.Today bloggers around the world write issues about water to catch people's attention and to let them realize how important water is.

Water sustains life but not all of us live abundantly with water.In Africa and developing  countries there's water scarcity while in some parts of the world people abuse the use of it.It takes 6.3 gallons of water to produce just one hamburger while more and more children die because of diseases brought by unreliable water supply. Isn't it surprising!?

I'm one of those ordinary people who can't change big issues such us wars over water, oceans getting polluted and a number of children die due to unsafe  drinking water.However, I can make things better by doing my own simple way in conserving water.I believe I can start in our own household and extending it to my community.

In the Philippines, my city which is Davao has got the most potable water in the country.Our drinking water has been recognized as one of the best in the world too. The richness of our natural resources makes it possible.On the other hand, it's depressing to know that many of my fellows just waste it.  

When will we fully understand water preservation?If it's totally gone? Now is the time to do our step by step movement. I can't imagine having water interruption for a day or more! It rarely happens in our vicinity.I'm lucky to have lived in a place where water is not our main concern. I'm going to be sick if we lack water in our faucets for a week! The people in our place will definitely call the water supplier if the interruption takes too long.

Do you think water can prolong life if we stop getting safe drinking water?We shouldn't wait for that thing to happen before we act. If you believe that water is life then start giving value to water by using it wisely. Remember the people who live in hot places with no  clean water to drink.

Eden Invasion

It was three years ago when I first visited an ecologically-friendly farm and resort  which is Eden Nature Park.It's located in Mount Talomo and situated in a cool area in Davao City.It's a highland place where you can enjoy  magnificent mountain views.

I went back there with my college friends last year.They'd never been there and I wanted to see them too so I decided to go there to join the group.We had a day tour and went swimming in their infinity pool  after we strolled the wide area of Eden!

There are a lot of things to do at Eden.Their services include fishing,trekking,camping and hiking.You can also take a look at their Aviary where you can see different species of birds.In addition, they've got enough rooms to accommodate their visitors and guests! Furthermore, it's a perfect place to have a garden wedding! It's my ideal wedding ceremony!To get wed with my chosen one in a garden and nature-inspired setting is such a wonderful thought!What's more, a map will be given to help you explore the Eden on Earth of Davao City!

What I love most in there is the cool breeze that we don't have at downtown area and the sky ride!Every weekend they offer this extra ordinary experience for those people who want to do something unique and interesting! It felt great to be on heights and fly like an eagle! I took a lot of photos! It was indeed a great weekend!

 

The day after, I left my mobile phone in the taxi.I used it too in taking some pictures.It's a good thing though I brought a camera to capture our invasion at Eden!