SineMaya 2023: Viewers Cast Their Votes for the People's Choice Award

Cagayan de Oro City | via Bhal Cabrera | November 26, 2023

The much-anticipated SineMaya 2023 - Community Short Film Festival took place today, inviting viewers across the Philippines to cast their votes for the People's Choice Award among the eight remarkable short film entries. This year's festival, themed "Pagbangon at Pag-asa: Kasangga ang MFI sa paghaharap sa bagong simula" (Rising and Hope: MFI's Partner in Facing a New Beginning), celebrated the spirit of resilience and optimism.

Simultaneously, cinephiles gathered for a nationwide film showing across three major SM mall locations, bringing cinematic magic to Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. SM Manila in Luzon, SM Iloilo in Visayas, and SM CdO Uptown in Mindanao served as venues for this grand cinematic event.

The eight short film entries captured the hearts and minds of the audience with their powerful narratives and creative storytelling. Each film resonated with the festival's theme, highlighting stories of individuals and communities who have triumphed over adversity and found hope in the face of challenges.

Festivalgoers at SM Manila in Luzon were treated to a diverse selection of short films that depicted the resilience of Filipinos in the face of natural disasters, personal struggles, and societal issues. Meanwhile, viewers at SM Iloilo in Visayas were moved by tales of hope and unity in the region, while those at SM CdO Uptown in Mindanao witnessed stories of perseverance and determination.

The People's Choice Award, a much-coveted accolade, allows the audience to have their say in recognizing the film that touched them the most. Viewers cast their votes at the respective SM mall locations, with the winner set to be announced during the festival's closing ceremony.

SineMaya 2023 not only serves as a platform for talented filmmakers to showcase their work but also as a reflection of the Filipino spirit, emphasizing the importance of coming together to overcome challenges and embrace a brighter future.

As the festival continues to inspire and uplift audiences across the Philippines, the excitement builds for the announcement of the People's Choice Award winner, who will undoubtedly represent the collective hope and resilience of the Filipino people.

Plaridel Mayor Gadwin Handumon Inspires Misamis Occidental Youth Leaders at SK Mandatory Training 2023

Tangub City, Misamis Occidental | via Bhal Cabrera | November 19, 2023

A remarkable day unfolded as Plaridel Mayor Gadwin Handumon took the stage as a speaker during the 1st Provincial Sangguniang Kabataan Training 2023, addressing a gathering of 490 SK Chairpersons from Misamis Occidental. Mayor Handumon, recognized for his commitment to community development, seized the opportunity to share valuable insights on the roles of youth in community building and the importance of strengthening linkages and cooperativism.

The event, organized by the Provincial Training Management Team, provided a platform for Mayor Handumon to delve into the intricacies of community development, emphasizing the pivotal role that young leaders play in shaping the future. His address touched upon the collaborative efforts needed, highlighting the significance of partnerships with DILG MisOcc, Local Youth Development Officers, and the National Youth Commission.

Under the leadership and guidance of the hardworking Governor Atty Henry S. Oaminal, the provincial government aims to inspire and empower the youth, fostering a sense of responsibility and leadership. Mayor Handumon echoed this vision, expressing the collective goal to achieve the 5Ms - Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawon Malamboon ug Malipayon, encapsulating the aspiration for unity, peace, prosperity, and happiness.

As the training session progressed, Mayor Handumon's words resonated with the young leaders, setting the tone for a future marked by active youth involvement and positive community impact. The collaborative efforts showcased during the event reflect a commitment to nurturing the potential of Misamis Occidental's youth, ensuring they are well-equipped to lead and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The day concluded with a shared sense of purpose and determination among the participants, embodying the spirit of unity and progress in Misamis Occidental.

Hijos Tours and CMDI Ignite the Spirit of 'Balagtasan' - A Triumph of Poetry and Debate at CMDI Baisay 2023

via Bhal Cabrera | November 16,2022

In a resounding celebration of Filipino cultural heritage, CARD MRI Hijos Tours and CMDI joined forces to bring forth the enchanting world of 'Balagtasan' to CMDI students. The BAISAY: BALAGTASAN 2023, held at the CMDI Auditorium in Barangay Tranca, Bay, Laguna on October 27, 2023, witnessed an inspiring display of linguistic prowess, creativity, and intellectual engagement.

Hijos Tours President, Ms. Marilyn M. Manila, emphasized the commitment to preserving cultural traditions, providing CMDI students with a platform for self-expression through poetry and debate. CMDI President, Dr. Flordeliza L. Sarmiento, highlighted how the event adds depth and diversity to the educational experiences of CMDI students.

The term 'Baisay,' rooted in the Hiligaynon language, signifies 'debate,' and the event aimed to foster the spirit of 'Balagtasan' among CMDI students. Divided into Senior High School (SHS) and College categories, participants showcased their talents under the themes "Magkolehiyo, Magkaroon ng Eksperyensa" (Go to College, Gain Experience) and "Magtrabaho, Magkaroon ng Negosyo" (Work, Start a Business).

In the SHS category, the CMDI Tagum representative claimed victory, with additional awards bestowed upon standout performers. The College category witnessed fierce competition, ultimately won by Irene Legaspino and her team, crowned as the champions of CMDI Baisay 2023.

All winners were not only honored with certificates but also received well-deserved cash prizes. Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus, commended the students for not only showcasing their traditional art skills but also for demonstrating keen awareness of contemporary issues.

CMDI, standing as a beacon of quality education, continues to shape the future of students through various programs. Meanwhile, CARD MRI Hijos Tours, with its commitment to promoting Philippine tourism and culture, played a pivotal role in making this cultural celebration a triumph.

As the echoes of the 'Balagtasan' linger, it stands as a testament to the enduring significance of this traditional art form in Philippine culture and the promising future of these young poets and debaters.

1st Governor Henry S. Oaminal Chess 8 in 1 Team Festival Set to Thrill Chess Enthusiasts in Ozamiz City

Ozamiz City, November 10, 2023 | via Bhal Cabrera | 

Prepare for an exhilarating checkmate experience as the 1st Governor Henry S. Oaminal Chess 8 in 1 Team Festival kicks off at the Ozamiz City Gym from November 10 to 12, 2023.

Chess aficionados are in for a treat with a spectacular lineup of events, including a Simultaneous Display featuring Grandmasters Eugene Torre and Joey Antonio, alongside other International Masters. The festival boasts a diverse array of activities, ranging from rapid and blitz tournaments with a total prize pool of 500,000 for four different categories to a PCAP National Championship Automatic Qualifier Rapid Champion event.

The festival promises a unique blend of competition and camaraderie, offering an Age group package that includes a simul, lecture from the Masters, and tournament participation. A thrilling match featuring 20 boards will pit the 1st Visayan Selection against the Mindanao Champions, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Inaugurating the Executive Chess Tournament of the Mindanao Executives and Professionals Chess Association, the festival also hosts the Battle of Philippine Champions in a Round Robin Armageddon format, with Northern Mindanao facing off against the Rest of Mindanao.

The highlight of the event is a Simultaneous Display with GM Joey Antonio facing 24 chess players, including Ozamiz City Mayor Atty. Indy Oaminal. Mayor Atty. Indy Oaminal, on behalf of Governor Henry S. Oaminal, extended a warm welcome to all guests and participants, emphasizing the significance of the tournament in fostering the spirit of competition and sportsmanship.

Chess enthusiasts and spectators alike are eagerly anticipating the strategic brilliance and intense battles that the 1st Governor Henry S. Oaminal Chess 8 in 1 Team Festival promises to deliver over the next three days.

Police Officer Fatally Shot in Tangub City: Suspect Apprehended

Tangub City, Misamis Occidental | via Bhal Cabrera | November 11, 2023

In a shocking incident that unfolded in the early hours of November 11, 2023, Police Staff Sergeant Jonel Engnan Ramientos of Tangub City Police Station became the victim of a fatal shooting in Barangay III, Tangub City, Misamis Occidental.

The unfortunate event occurred at approximately 1:45 AM when concerned citizens alerted the authorities through a hotline, reporting that PSSgt Ramientos had been shot in front of his rented house. Responding promptly, Tangub CPS personnel, under the supervision of OIC PMAJ. Alvin Mernilo Tamayo, rushed to the scene.

PSSgt Ramientos was quickly transported to Doña Maria D Tan Memorial Hospital, Tangub City, but tragically succumbed to several gunshot wounds, as declared by attending physician Dr. Maxbeth Tilao. The suspect, identified as AKA Koling Mirrafuentes, was apprehended during a hot pursuit operation by the Tangub City Police Station.

The initial investigation revealed that the victim had approached a group of individuals drinking in front of their rented house. Subsequently, as the victim went inside, the suspect left the area. However, upon the victim's return to speak with the group, the suspect unexpectedly reappeared, brandishing a short firearm and firing multiple shots at PSSgt Ramientos.

The crime scene yielded fired cartridge cases and bullets of caliber .45, while short and long firearms were recovered at the rented house of the victim and the suspect. The motive behind this tragic incident is yet to be determined.

As Tangub City mourns the loss of a dedicated police officer, the swift action of the Tangub CPS personnel resulted in the arrest of the suspect, bringing a sense of closure to a community grappling with this unexpected tragedy.

CARD MRI Receives Prestigious Digital Financial Inclusion Award for Outstanding Microfinance Achievements

Metro Manila, October 24, 2023 | via Bhal Cabrera

CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI) emerged victorious at the 2nd Digital Financial Inclusion Awards (DFIA), securing its position among the top microfinance institutions (MFIs) driving financial inclusion through digital transformation.

Recognition for Digital Prowess

CARD MRI, led by Founder and Chair Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle Alip, was honored alongside four other outstanding MFIs during the awards ceremony held at the BSP Assembly Hall in Metro Manila. The accolade highlights CARD MRI's dedication to expanding its services and improving products through innovative digitalization efforts.

Inspiration for Continued Excellence

Dr. Jaime Aristotle Alip expressed gratitude, stating, "This acknowledgment is one of those that continue to inspire and motivate us to be more effective in this field. As long as there are those who believe in us, we remain committed to expanding the reach of our services and enhancing our product offerings through continued digitalization."

DFIA's Mission for Financial Inclusion

The DFIA awards, organized by the Microfinance Council of the Philippines (MCPI) and supported by the Citi Foundation, Citi Philippines, and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, aim to recognize financial institutions actively embracing digital transformation to enhance and expand their operations.

Celebrating Digital Champions

Alongside CARD MRI, other winners include Kabalikat para sa Maunlad na Buhay, Inc. (KMBI), Kabuhayan sa Ganap Kasarinlan Credit and Savings Cooperative (K-Coop), RAFI Micro-Finance, Inc., and Rural Bank of Guinobatan, Inc. Each winner was awarded P100,000.00 to further enhance their digital capabilities and technological utilization.

Microentrepreneurs Shine

The event not only celebrated the achievements of MFIs but also shone a spotlight on microentrepreneurs, underscoring the vital role played by these institutions in adopting technology and delivering digital financial services to communities. This collective effort significantly contributes to the economic development of the Philippines.