Courage of 11 Talisay SK chairmen lauded

CEBU, Philippines – For showing "exemplary courage and integrity" during the last Sangguniang Kabataan Federation election, the Talisay City government and first district Rep. Eduardo Gullas yesterday awarded 11 SK chairmen of the city.

"Incorruptibility, integrity and courage is not dead in Talisay City. It is very much alive," Gullas said in his speech during the awarding of medals to the 11 SK chairmen and their parents at the Talisay City Sports Complex in barangay Poblacion.

The 11 SK chairmen were those who stuck with the administration party and voted for its candidate Carmel John Burlas of Lagtang. Although he tied with opposition bet Val Joseph Ylanan, Burlas still won via coin toss.

Without naming names, in his speech, Gullas revealed that there was vote-buying involved, that at least P30,000 was promised to the parents just so their children would vote for the rival candidate.

"It's more than P30,000. In some instances, it's P50,000.   In one instance, P180,000.   But bisan sa kapait sa kahimtang, ilang gibalibaran," Gullas said.

He also claimed that there were allegedly offers from the opposing camp like a trip to Boracay and a multicab once the opposing candidate won.   But all these were turned down by the children and their parents.

"I'm impressed by their courage, really. No amount of medal or plaque or certificates that we can give to them. Ug karon, atong iitsa ang hagit sa mga kadagkuan nga sundon ang ilang gihimo ug sa mga ginikanan," Gullas said.

Recipients of the medals were Burlas, Sharbie Mariz Abing (Candulawan), Franklin Basillote (Dumlog), Catherine Cabatas (Maghaway), Janine Batuigas (Manipis), Portia Nivea Lastimado (Pooc), Jeo Abarquez (San Roque), Kissey Mae Cabañero (Tabunok), Lindy Lou Maureen Kapa (Tangke), Gabrielle Marc Alan Bucao (San Isidro), and Jackmer Seguerra (Poblacion).

Meanwhile, SK Provincial Federation president Bea Mercede Calderon thanked the provincial officials as she bade farewell to her colleagues during the Provincial Board session yesterday.

In her privilege speech, Calderon said that even if she was a "silent voice" she assured her colleagues that it only meant that she was learning from everything she has heard and witnessed.

"After all, silent waters run deep," she said.

As she left the Capitol, Calderon said she is bothered by the "incongruity and the critical exchanges" among officials of the province these past several months.

She reminded the board members her first speech in 2008 when she said she can never accomplish anything alone and that she needs the aid of everyone around her.

"In a related tone of unity, I have vowed to commit myself to a United Cebu," Calderon said. 

Calderon cited a few of her accomplishments and contributions to the Province of Cebu.

In partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment 600 individuals were trained in basic spa services and in beauty health services and over 1,100 for meat processing.

In cooperation with the Technical Education Skills Development Authority and the Department of Education almost 300 individuals trained in computer literacy, candle-making, soap-making and other various technical and vocational courses carried out through all municipalities and component cities.

"I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Governor Gwen Garcia, Vice Governor Gregorio Sanchez, the Provincial Board members and the Sangguniang Kabataan for this most wisening and wonderful experience," Calderon said.   - Liv G. Campo and Gregg M. Rubio/BRP (FREEMAN)