ORMOC CITY– Tragedy struck in Sta. Rita, Samar, as a barangay kagawad and a young female balikbayan lost their lives in a road accident last February 8.
The fatal incident occurred around 9:15 am along the national highway in Barangay Bagolibas.
The victims were identified as Joel Cabutin, the driver, a village councilor of Brgy. San Isidro, Pinabacdao, Samar, and his passenger Maria Mae Mendaño, 26, a balikbayan from Switzerland residing in Brgy. Parasanon, also in Pinabacdao.
The SUV involved, owned by the provincial government of Eastern Samar, was driven by Lynjun Catalo,42, a resident of Brgy. Songco, Borongan City.
According to Police Staff Sergeant Romualdo Paca-anas, the case investigator, both vehicles were traveling in opposite directions along the highway.
Cabutin and Mendaño were aboard a MotoPosh Motorcycle with a sidecar, heading from Tacloban City to Pinabacdao while the white Toyota Hilux SUV (Plate No. A8Q-922) was en route to Tacloban City.
Paca-anas said that as they approached Brgy. Bagolibas, the tricycle veered into the opposite lane due to a rough section of the road, coinciding with the SUV’s attempt to switch lanes to avoid another vehicle.
However, the tricycle returned to its original lane just as the SUV was changing lanes, resulting in a collision.
Following the impact, the SUV veered left and struck a parked single motorcycle (Suzuki Smash with Plate No. 132HNT) along the shoulder lane.
While the SUV’s driver and passenger sustained minor injuries and were taken to Basey District Hospital for treatment, Cabutin and Mendaño were pronounced dead at the scene by the rural health officer of Sta. Rita. (ROBERT DEJON)
CRIME GROUP DISMANTLING.Police Regional Director, B/Gen. Reynaldo Pawid, disclosed that they are hunting down four crime groups in Samar. One of these groups, the Ampoan Group, was responsible in the killing of three cops and the wounding of four others as they engaged the police in a shootout in Sta.Rita,Samar on January 30.(PHOTO COURTESY)
One involved in the killing of 3 cops
CRIME GROUP DISMANTLING.Police Regional Director, B/Gen. Reynaldo Pawid, disclosed that they are hunting down four crime groups in Samar. One of these groups, the Ampoan Group, was responsible in the killing of three cops and the wounding of four others as they engaged the police in a shootout in Sta.Rita,Samar on January 30.(PHOTO COURTESY)
TACLOBAN CITY—The police regional director in Eastern Visayas reported that at least four criminal armed groups in Samar province are the subjects of their operations.
These armed groups, which are engaged in contract killings and have outstanding warrants of arrest, include those responsible for the killing of three police officers in Sta. Margarita, Samar during a shootout on January 30, which also wounded four other cops, B/Gen. Reynaldo Pawid, the police regional director, said in an interview on Monday (Feb. 12).
“Our operation continues without letup. But we are appealing to the public to help the police force in our operation, especially if they know these persons who are notorious criminals, armed and dangerous,” Pawid said.
The manhunt being conducted by the police organizations operating in Samar province came about amid the shooting incident in Barangay Mahayag last January 30 involving police personnel and members of the Ampoan Group.
The police personnel, belonging to the 1st Samar Police Mobile Force and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion, were in the village, 15 km away from the town proper of Sta. Margarita, to serve warrants against the three members of the Ampoan Group, namely Edito Ampoan, the leader of the group, and his members Jojo Altarejos and Rogelio Macurol.
The three were accused of killing Tiburcio Ocong, barangay chairman of Bislig, Gandara town, also in Samar, on October 23, 2015.
The shootout resulted in the death of Staff Sergeant Christian Tallo; Corporal Eliazar Estrelles Jr.; and Master Sgt. Paul Terence Paclibar. Wounded were Cpl. Rannel Pedamato; Cpl. Mark Jason Sixta; and Patrolmen Ham Kritnere Capalis and Mark Redoblado.
B/Gen. Pawid said that seven of their members, who were arrested during that fateful day, were already charged with multiple murder, multiple frustrated murder, and multiple attempted murder before a regional court in Sta. Margarita a day after the incident. However, the subjects of their operation, Ampoan, Altarejos, and Macurol, remain at large. All three were also included in the charge sheet filed by the police.
But Pawid said that they would not stop until all members of the Ampoan group and the three other criminal groups, whom he did not name, are arrested and brought to court. “How can we give justice to their victims if they will not be arrested? That is why we need the support of the public,” the Police Regional Director said. “But we are giving you our assurance that our operations against these criminal groups will continue,” Pawid added.
According to their information, the four criminal groups have a combined membership of about 30 who are moving to different areas in Samar to evade arrest. Pawid, however, declined to say if these crime groups are being supported by local politicians. “We are investigating that,” Pawid said.
Meantime, Pawid said that they have learned some lessons from that incident, saying that before any operations could be launched, they should first familiarize themselves with the terrain or place where the target lives or hides.
It was learned that the houses where the three subjects of the arrest and their other members have foxholes.(JOEY A. GABIETA)
Samar Highway, a critical arterial road in the Philippines, has been a major mode of transportation for goods, services, and commuting for decades. However, its deteriorating condition demands more than just regular maintenance. It requires substantial reconstruction funds rather than mere maintenance to address its numerous issues and ensure the safety and efficiency of the road.
Indeed, the current state of Samar Highway is a cause for concern. The highway’s worst condition leads to frequent accidents and disruptions in transportation services. Potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces not only increase the risks of accidents but also impede the smooth flow of traffic, particularly during the rainy season. Maintenance efforts alone are insufficient to tackle the underlying structural problems that contribute to the deteriorating state of the road; a comprehensive reconstruction is necessary.
The economic implications of reconstructing Samar Highway cannot be ignored. This crucial road serves as a lifeline for local businesses, connecting urban centers to rural areas and facilitating trade activities. However, the devastated condition of the highway hampers the transportation of goods, leading to delays and increased costs for businesses. By providing adequate reconstruction funds, the government can revitalize commercial activities, boost economic growth, and create job opportunities through construction and related industries.
Furthermore, the safety of commuters and the general public cannot be compromised. In its current state, Samar Highway poses significant risks to motorists and pedestrians alike. Regular maintenance efforts, although necessary for basic upkeep, cannot effectively address the broader safety concerns related to the road’s structural integrity.
Reconstruction projects would not only improve the road’s condition and durability but also integrate modern safety features, such as adequate lighting, guardrails, and better signage systems, ensuring the well-being of all road users.
Should reconstruction funds be made available for the highway’s rehabilitation, however, reconstruction must be closely monitored to ensure that corruption by local politicians will not creep in to slash the budget once again and siphon the same into their pockets. Quality workmanship and standard materials must be used. Better still, contractors must come from foreign companies, or companies with excellent, untarnished records, not prone to under-the-table transactions, but are known for high-quality outputs. This way, Samar Highway will not only enhance transportation standards but also contribute to the region’s progress, heralding a brighter future for its residents and all stakeholders involved.
When schools of fish wash ashore and die in mass stranding events, it usually captures the attention of both scientists and the general public. The ecological significance of such events goes beyond the mere curiosity they elicit. What could be the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to this mass fish stranding?
This phenomenon occurs when large numbers of fish venture too close to the shore, unable to find their way back to deeper water. Informed analysis reveals that these occurrences often result from various factors, including strong currents, disorientation, illness, or even human-induced disturbances such as noise pollution. We need to understand the underlying causes behind such events and develop effective mitigation strategies.
The reason why schools of fish wash ashore and die deepens as we explore the consequences of such events. Beyond the immediate loss of life, there are broader implications for marine ecosystems. The decaying remains of stranded fish impact local water quality, leading to oxygen depletion and an increase in harmful algal blooms. This can disrupt the delicate balance of marine biodiversity, affecting the entire food chain and causing cascading effects on other species.
What are the potential solutions to mitigate mass fish stranding? Well, we emphasize the importance of proactive measures, such as implementing protected areas and marine reserves, to reduce human activities that disturb coastal ecosystems. Moreover, advanced technologies can aid in predicting and preventing strandings by early detection systems, ecological monitoring, and collaborative efforts between researchers and local communities.
Addressing mass fish strandings requires acknowledging the greater context of climate change and its impact on marine environments. We should understand the intricate links between changing oceanic conditions, disrupted migration patterns, and fish stranding events. Through advanced research and analysis, we can contribute to developing sustainable management practices and raising awareness of the need for ecological resilience.
Furthermore, it is important to recognize the importance of multidisciplinary approaches to studying mass fish strandings. Understanding the intricate web of factors contributing to these events requires the collaboration of marine biologists, ecologists, conservationists, oceanographers, and even social scientists. Interdisciplinary research allows for a holistic understanding of the measures needed to address this ecological issue comprehensively.
While mass fish strandings are concerning, they also serve as a reminder of the complexities of marine ecosystems and the interdependent relationship between all living organisms. With this advanced understanding, we can work towards developing innovative strategies such as fish rescue operations, promoting sustainable aquaculture practices, and supporting educational campaigns that raise awareness about the importance of protecting marine life and their habitats.
No, there is nothing superstitious or paranormal regarding mass fishes washing ashore. We can know its causes, consequences, and potential solutions. The next time you hear about stranded fish at the beach, you don’t have to cross yourself or light a huge candle. Instead, you can help protect marine ecosystems required to address complex ecological challenges. By committing to interdisciplinary cooperation, acknowledging the impacts of climate change, and fostering sustainable practices, we can make progress toward minimizing these tragic occurrences and preserving the delicate balance of our oceans.
Never tell people that the odds in sweepstakes, lotto or any high stakes numbers game are too high that hitting the jackpot is almost impossible. To do so might bring one to embarrassment as the jackpot might just be hit in one betting which would make the person a liar at so high a cost that may be too difficult to recover. It would ruin the person’s credibility and integrity as his statement turned false. But the gargantuan prize is more than enough make amends for the mistake as the tough to win but there is truly that remote chance of winning by a stroke of luck.
There are mathematical procedures that could help determine the exact number of combinations for a certain draw where numbers could be in any order. There are draws too where permutation is applied as the set of numbers has to be in a specific order. In any way, the numbers open for bettors to choose could be computed with accuracy.
In the controversial lotto draws where the jackpot prizes were increased geometrically if not astronomically, people were caught is utter disbelief akin to one hit by vertigo as the jackpot prizes were won in succession, days after the other following the increased amount of prizes at stake. The highly improbable hits involving the different draws were too alarming that it drew the curiosity of the betting public as the portrait of the purported winner appeared edited that it showed patent differences.
Immediately, an investigation in aid of legislation was conducted by the senate with officials of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) grilled in a series of hearings that were beamed live on television and other social media platforms. The investigation aimed at drawing facts that could eventually led to future legislation.
The investigation delved into the glaring anomaly that attended the draws. It was discovered that a single bettor spent millions of pesos to bet on millions of combinations for an increased chance of winning. True enough, that lone better was the purported winner of the increased jackpot prize. The opinion given by a mathematician that any anomaly could be probed not using statistics but by audit is correct as the winning combination could be hit no matter the odds.
“THIS is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” (Mk 1,15) These words are from the gospel of the Mass on the First Sunday of Lent that remind us of the need for repentance and conversion especially as we enter the season of Lent.
They remind us first of all to recover and sharpen our sense of sin, especially these days when that sense of sin is continually and aggressively eroded by all sorts of elements that tend to desensitize us of our tendency to sin. Not only that. There is a strong movement to justify all sorts of evils and sins, even regarding them as part of our human rights.
Besides, with all this talk and general thrust of the Church today on mercy and compassion, a very commendable campaign, I must say, we just have to make sure that we do not lose our sense of sin as a consequence or unintended side-effect.
We always have to be wary of the possible bad effects that our good plans and initiatives can have. The world is not perfect. Loopholes, hidden traps, mistakes, etc., can always spoil what otherwise is thought of as a very good strategy.
We might get too easy and presumptuous about God’s omnipotent and gratuitous mercy that we may not be able anymore to acknowledge sins, ours and those of others, that need to be forgiven.
In other words, we might get too intoxicated with divine mercy that initially would lead us to think it would just be ok to commit sin since it will be forgiven anyway. But later on as in a slippery slope, as we get used to committing sin that can get forgiven anyway, we would find ourselves not anymore considering anything as sin.
Our conscience would be distorted and would become lax. Little by little, we lose our capacity to hear God’s voice in our conscience. In its place, we would just hear our own corrupted voice.
This can happen because our capacity to identify what is good and evil depends on our relationship with God. If that relationship is not good, or is not healthy and working, then obviously we would have a bad or wrong notion of sin, or even lose the very sense of sin.
It is for this reason that we all have the need to base ourselves on the very foundation of reality, the very source of what is moral and immoral. This is none other than God, the author and creator of the universe.
Grounding our capacity to distinguish between right and wrong on another basis would set us on the offside. Sadly, this is what is happening these days. There seems to be a systematic distancing from God and a growing dependence on our own ideas, ideologies, philosophies, and other methods that practically ignore or are even hostile to God.
We need to remind ourselves strongly these days that we need God for us to know and judge properly. We just cannot depend entirely on our legal and technological systems, for example, no matter how sophisticated they have been developed.
For this to happen, we need faith to give substance and direction to our reason. Reason cannot stand on its own. It is incomplete without faith. In practical terms, this means we need to overcome our tendency to make ourselves the standard, the ultimate lawgiver.
