Butuan Ramblings!
07-29-10
Greetings All!
Usually I attempt to initiate these ramblings by focusing on how the fluctuation of the jewel that is the Agusan River parallels a particular issue facing our clime. I cannot conjure up an appropriate segue this week.
We have toyed with many issues, a community action center, a viable navigation entrance, Expat public conduct, Butuanon Yahoo group moderation failures, infrastructure issues, and tyrannical political hindrances to community growth. And yet, Butuan evolves, grows and disproves the mindset of the ‘fellowship of the miserable’, in their belief that ‘things’ will never change, and that, ‘that’s how things are done here’. Fallacies both, and entirely disrespectful to Butuanons who are demonstrating the exact opposite with their deeds and actions. To that end, I wish to laud Dr. Nery, who had the courage to repudiate conditions present in our city hospital, against a political stalwart. He did this outside of the political realm via a public letter explaining his position. Whether his position was right or wrong is/was not relevant. What was relevant was that he spoke up for those without said voice, at great personal financial risk. This man is a hero. Alas, he and I have had our internet disagreements, but he is genuine and proud. He and I still disagree, perhaps, but he represents all that is good about public service.
In a related mindset, and please forgive me for going off tangent, but importantly so, I wish to again explore the concept of instituting a palliative care/hospice unit in Butuan City. I have made considerable rounds within our local medical community seeking their opinions as to whether hospice would be accepted in this culture and how it would be funded. This is an emotional subject to state the obvious. In order to present a platform for discussion, it seems appropriate to define hospice, in laymen’s terms, so here goes;
Simplified, hospice is therapy designed to make a patient comfortable, rather than attempting to aspire to recovery. A person entering hospice care, recognizes that death is likely within 12 months, sans heroic medical efforts.
There it is. No religion, no fabrications and no miracles. It is what it is.
According to Dr. Amante, our new Mayor, cancer is prevalent in our clime. It has hit my family like a brick. Most cases are terminal in a practical and standardized medical sense. Herein lays the issue at hand. If a dying person is in gross discomfort, medical doctors do not have the option to ‘Kevorkian’ a suffering soul, due to legal and perhaps religious bent. Isn’t this unfortunate? Additionally, and most importantly, the loving family likely does not have the emotional skill set nor the financial capability to cope with such an event. This is where a hospice caregiver enters the picture. Not only are they trained to effectively communicate with the patient, but also can release the decision making burden from both the family and most importantly, the physician.
Currently I am the primary care designate for two Expats living here in Butuan. There is no other choice for them. One individual’s family kicked him to the curb, the other’s primary family is ill equipped to advocate for his comfort, because they simply feel ‘ashamed’ to question a ‘Doctor’! The result of this lack of advocacy is a decidedly uncomfortable patient, who likely is not in a condition to speak for himself. The former individual is the poster boy for growing old with a family unequipped for dealing with such a condition. The latter is afraid to seek medical care in Butuan and not well enough to travel. While people vilify those who abandon an elderly person, I choose to examine the culture and available services as they are, in attempting to understand the mindset of those who ‘take the old one to the jungle’. Who among us is trained to care for an elderly person? It is a tiresome exercise to say the least, given failing memory, mood swings and intermittent bodily functions. At some point, it pushes a primary caregiver to exasperation. Who really decides when an elderly person ‘loses it’? Given these parameters, how can Hospice be a bad thing?
To this end, Butuan is always searching for a niche. Medical tourism is huge biz in many developing countries, but yet few ‘assisted living’ facilities exist. As we explore growth opportunities for our region, beyond the Balanghai, a big tree and Bood 1st Mass discussion, (all niche interests), perhaps construction of assisted living facilities are a productive discussion. Butuanons appear to be a friendly lot, smiles abound, and we are located in a very advantageous location relative to ports, services and beaches. There is no shortage of nursing students. Heck, driving on the highway past Doctor’s Hospital is a game of ‘nurse pinball’.
Back in the 60’s the State of Florida in the USA became a thriving destination for ‘snowbirds’, and they brought their ‘fixed’ incomes, (at the least), with them. South Florida boomed. A decade later, Arizona and New Mexico followed suit, and in turn flourished also. Butuan has more attributes than either of those locales, and the cost of living is considerably less here. I am often asked about business opportunities in Butuan, and assisted living homes and a crematory are always in the top five of my suggestions. There is no shortage of the elderly and the dead, and the thought of being tucked away in a concrete box for eternity just kills me! (smile).
But back to Hospice. Would a Hospice unit function in this City, in this culture? After a fair amount of research in the local medical community, the accepted opinion is that the more financially settled families simply hire nursing care for their elderly loved ones, and the less financially capable simply do the best they can. I would offer that in both situations, neither truly has the skill set to assure the comfort of the patient, for the options available are quite limited. Sometimes those we love the most are too emotionally involved to make decisions in the best interest of the patient.
Hospice is expensive and exists only with insurance/health care benefits in more developed countries. This type of funding is not available in Butuan City at this time. I have been told that there is a Hospice unit in CDO, but I have not been able to locate it, if it exists. I would propose that a short term solution might be to invite a trained Hospice associate to Butuan, and conduct a series of seminars/classes, with the goal of training a population of ‘visiting nurses’. I think this type of direction is a more realistic approach to a very prevalent, yet silent issue. Your thoughts?
Café Caliente at 11am tomorrow!
Peace to all!
Greg May

Butuan Ramblings!
07-12-10
Greetings All!
I think the middle of the Agusan River is getting lonely.
In years past logging traffic was a daily occurrence, often many ‘rafts’ of logs heading to market. Sawmills along the riverbank were humming 7 days a week. Tugboats chugged upriver to collect long log rafts-some over a kilometer long.
These days log rafts are a rarity, and those that do appear, are much shorter than in the past. Private banca boats stick close to shore when plying upstream, so as to minimize the affects of the downriver current. Even the lily islands seem to hug the shoreline. Alas, nary a ripple does the middle of the river see.
The buttress of the Gloria Bridge occupies the middle of the river, but it appears to be sinking, as the roadway no longer seems to be convex in appearance. Can you imagine both Butuan bridges being closed for repairs?
Last week the security team at Bancasi Airport confiscated some weapons hidden in packages. Sometimes we forget about the important task these folks are charged with. History shows that many acts of terrorism in the airways begin at small airports, with the bad guys hoping that security at small airports is likely to be more lax than at larger ports. Bancasi’s security team did their job, and we are safer for it.
This weekend promises to be very exciting, as the third vessel of the Balanghai Expedition is scheduled for launching on the Friday the 16th. The following two days a fundraising cruise is available that includes lunch at Masao beach. Visit the construction site in Bading for information, as well as taking a peek at such fine craftsmanship.
A ‘ham & cheese’ and an ‘attaboy’ are in order for friend JD Roberts, who was awarded ‘Wright Brothers Master Pilot’ status by the Federal Aviation Administration. The award recognizes Mr. Roberts for his professionalism as a Pilot as well as his contributions toward aviation safety. I also learned that JD is a member of a select few who reached 130mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats-talk about a guy with a need for speed!!!
Congrats JD!
Speaking of JD, he is part of another group of local Expats who have chosen to invest in their new Butuan home by opening local small businesses. It is a wonderful demonstration to the community that Butuan is part of the Global community, and that 99% of the more than 330 resident Expats are good and decent people simply trying to live life in a new clime. We seldom hear of misbehaving Expats in Butuan anymore. Quite a change from the mindset of the past for Expats here in Butuan, and I hope that the community recognizes the change from deleterious behavior to conduct more in line with good citizenship and peaceful existence for all.
To that end, three new Expat ‘owned’ businesses have opened in Butuan recently. JD has ventured out to San Vicente to open a much needed internet café and resto near the high school.
Martriza’s is located near City Hall next to Uncle Sam’s and features Shawarma, (similar to the Greek Gyro), and yummy ice cream among its fare. The Shawarma is succulent shaved beef, fresh veggies in a pocket, and is receiving rave reviews.
Z-Thom’s is located in Libertad on the highway heading west toward the airport. Just before the bridge, peek to the right. The bill of fare is the stuff of legend, in these climes, for mouthwatering hamburgers, lasagna, different pastas, salads and yummy sandwiches await. Ice cold Heinekin as well!
Our yard sale has evolved into an outdoor pawn shop. It has been quite enjoyable meeting new people that just happen to be passing by. Yesterday 3 young gents from Surigao Del Sur wandered by, and we gabbed about news we hear from that clime for a half an hour. The prevalent news coming our way from SDS is sometimes not very favorable, so it was fun to get a local persons’ perspective. Speaking of pawnshops, (as we know them in the USA), I found a real doozy near the Royal Plaza Hotel, 2nd Flr. Contact Jojo Yee at 0920548557 for directions and an appointment for viewing. She’s got some great stuff for sale!
We are almost finished with construction of our first two waterfront apartments at Riverside Marina. Screened in porches right on the wharf allows for bug-free cool breezes while enjoying the friendly smiles of the passing boaters. Both will be available next month, so wander by for a peek!
Café Caliente at 11am, and I’ll see you at the launching!
Peace to All!
Greg May

Butuan Ramblings!
06-17-2010
Greetings All!
A number of boats that we have never seen have motored past our docks this past month. It is always fun to see a boat not seen previously, and wave in welcome to these shores. Boats hailing from Cabadbaran and Surigao primarily. We have yet to see any consistent cargo of note however. It is especially fun when the Surigao commuter boats ascend the Agusan, as they are much larger than our local craft.
The Agusan is quite alive this month; wild fluctuations in water level and speed. Last week someone pulled the plug one afternoon and our docks were completely in the dry. Usually this is a steady calm time of year.
If you get a chance to visit Bading, do so prior to July 3rd, as that is the target date for the launching of the Balanghai Expeditions escort vessel-and a stunning vessel it is! The builders from TawiTawi are demonstrating exceptional skill in the construction of this vessel, as they are employing the same tools, but entirely different methodology. It is a floating piece of furniture, so go take a peek while it is still in the dry! The July 3rd launching will see the craft head to sea in short order, to assume its escort duty beginning in the Zamboanga area where it will join its two companion vessels.
July 1 is also of note in Butuan as the newly elected administration assumes its duties. The transition period has/is a difficult time for those in public service and many offices remain at idle speed until the new administration charts its own course. Procedural processes continue to function, albeit at a grounded pace. Analogous to a vessel anchored asea awaiting the port to clear. Nothing to do but wait on deck without shore leave!
Rumors of a new shopping mall have persisted in the last decade, and perhaps fruition is in sight, as a large billboard sits in a vacant field between the highway and the parallel access road. ‘Soon to rise, Robinson’s/SM mall’.
Our yard sale was good fun, and my thanks to all who visited. Being tired after the sale, we simply tarped over the sale items and opened not only the next day, but for the last couple weeks. I stuck a sign on the lawn, ‘Good Stuff, Great Prices…Take a peek!’, and folks have trickled in each day. Perhaps we are on to a new method of Yard Sale!
(GET)Gingoog Electric Trading, via owner Ralf Waberish and his daughter, set up a booth displaying their ProMate generators as well as other lighting accessories (GET) sells. Of particular note is a P700 rechargeable lantern that has received great response-heck I bought 4 of them and am similarly impressed. Dependable, long lasting and bright. Thanks much Ralf!
The Bancasi Airport renovation is entering its final phase, and a wonderful presentation it is. I think that the Butuan airport will continue to be the transportation hub of northern Mindanao, even though Davao and Cagayan airports are growing also. The Surigao airport will always be affected by prevailing winds, and travelers to destinations like Camiguin, Siaragao and Surigao will likely continue to choose Butuan as a jump off. Butuan’s geographic location at the base of a bay protects from storms in a way few locations can. As technology improves, a higher success rate of schedule adherence can be expected at BXU that other more exposed airports cannot match.
Lastly, many have often expressed that while Butuan does have noted historical claims, these attractions entice a somewhat limited demographic. At its essence, tourism is the competition for discretionary income. Tourists have many choices when deciding where to spend said income, and locales compete for said income based on its offerings. This said, many believe that the real untapped attraction that Butuan has to offer is the Agusan River. To this I wholeheartedly agree. 80% of our charters are upriver voyages. It is amazing how quickly one can traverse from 2010 to 1910, (and beyond), while venturing upriver. One of the reactions I often receive from local hoteliers is that they find it difficult to suggest outside activities for their guests. There have been many ideas to be ‘floated’ for methods of celebrating such a unique resource, but few have come to fruition. Any ideas?
Every Wednesday at 11am at Café Caliente!
Peace to All!
G

05-16-10

Greetings All!

Dawn on the Agusan River after a midnight shower always has a special appeal. 

The critters, hunkered down during the night, seem to arise a bit earlier than usual to shake off the chill of a shivering night.  All seem bright eyed and much more vocal than after a rainless night.  Our rain gauge at Riverside Marina is the amount of collected water on the canopies of the boats at the dock.

You’d think that after 7 years a two-legged hominid with opposable thumbs would have figured out a method of removing canopy water while staying dry.

Alas, the conundrum of this author.

I wish to thank all for their expressions of well wishes for our family medical issues of the last couple of months.  Major surgery involves many emotions and responsibilities.  All went well and recovery is on course.  Again, thank you.

As you may know elections were held in this country last Monday.  It appears that relatively few glitches in the Philippines first attempt at automated polling were experienced.  Quite an accomplishment methinks!

In Butuan, a new administration was voted into office, and many believe that the automated system allowed for a more accurate and sanctified process.  Butuan had been under the leadership of a single family for decades and the results of that leadership is the Butuan City we see on this day.  It is what it is, and it was what it was.  We acknowledge, appreciate and remember yesterday, but focus our attentions on the tomorrows to come.  It serves no purpose to do otherwise.

As with any administrative change, initial directives are usually uncomfortable and soon criticized.  This is the point that measures leadership, and the next election is when said leadership is held accountable.  The new administration has a wonderful opportunity to chart a completely new course of direction and procedure, and warrants full support of the citizenry.  My sense is that most are very optimistic about the future of Butuan City.

As I have repeatedly stated in the past, (while being heavily criticized by the ‘fellowship of the miserable’ crowd), Butuan will progress as the world continues to shrink in an educational and technological sense.  The miserable say, ‘that’s how things are done here’, and, ‘it will never change’.  In their mind for example, the concept of ‘Filipino time’ is a mandate by birthright.  To these folk, Filipinos are considered less than human based on higher standards of lifestyle they view or experience in more ‘developed’ parts of the world.   A displaced family in Brgy. Ong Yiu due to a massive fire, (as experienced by some 1200 last month), is not worthy of their compassion or charity, in their minds.  All the miserable do is criticize and whine about issues that others have the courage, civic tendencies and human concern that they sorely lack.  The miserable sponge off the efforts of people who volunteer to achieve the best for all humanity in their community, country and world.  Butuan is blessed to have many individuals and families who are engaged and willing to volunteer their efforts for causes proven to be of a positive civic nature.  With a new administration occupying City Hall, perhaps a group of individuals donning t-shirts emblazoned with ‘Up with Butuan’ might demonstrate support one day a month and encourage others to stand tall?  Cleaning a street, painting a building, constructing a garbage bin, or filling in potholes,…and the like. 

I have seen it happen elsewhere, and it is quite a powerful message.

Last year I spoke of the children of some of the more prominent/historical families, most in their early 30’s, choosing to return to Butuan and start small businesses.  These folks are educated well, and have spent considerable time in other more ‘developed’ nations, and returned with the expectations of international standards, and driven somewhat by nationalistic pride, created business operating procedures bereft of stereotypical defunct Butuan standards.  By their continued example of professional conduct, they have inspired people-especially first time voters. 

The second factor that inspired Butuan voters, in my opinion, was the return of the Balanghai boat, and the entire construction and launching process.  The Balanghai, crewed by the Filipino Mt. Everest team, represented an entirely different expectation of life wherever they sailed, and continue to sail, most notably here in Butuan.  How could one not be drenched in Goosebumps infused with nationalistic pride as these heroes unloaded a cargo of freedom to Butuan’s Agusan shores?   I think that this cargo found its way into all Butuanons hearts, and along with the examples set by the young Butuanon business folk, awoke a dormant passion louder than the sacrifice of money for a vote. 

Butuanons stood up and were counted-legitimately.  Congratulations to you!

Freedom is an intoxicating concept, and once a person sniffs its sweet taste, it steamrolls.  The Butuan of 2015 will be quite different than the Butuan of 2010. 

-Another shopping mall?

-An ‘upcoming events’ medium?

-An industrial/manufacturing facility?

-Substantially decreased unemployment?

-A new signature industry?

-A dependable police/fire service?

-Paved roads with street signs?

-Adequate drainage system?

-A potable water system?

-Recreational amenities?

Yes to all, me predicts!

Oh, and no daily blackouts either!

And speaking of blackouts, can we stop with the ‘El Nino’ malarkey?  Puleeeease.

I wonder how the old folk who lived through invasions and wartime bombings would react to all the griping about the electricity being off for a few hours each day.  

The blackouts do take their toll however, in so many ways, especially economically.  The City of Butuan is a very attractive venue for major commercial investment as it enjoys quality educational choices, adequate housing choices, a ready and available workforce, easily accessible port facilities, (both air & sea), and a City Hall that appears very receptive to accommodating new business.  Ample electricity supply and the recent failings of same are a real challenge for any recruitment.  A viable Chamber of Commerce would also be a great asset.

The number of tourists visiting Butuan via Bancasi airport is 50% of what it was last year, according to our survey at the Tourist Assistance Center at the arrival terminal.  Last March, 638 foreign visitors landed at Bancasi.  Last April, 590 touched down.  This year less than 250 arrived per month.  Explicit warnings about traveling to Mindanao were prevalent this year due to upcoming elections, but in my mind the electrical deficiencies were the greatest deterrent.  Who would want to travel and spend their money in a locale that is not capable of keeping the lights on?  Would you?  The costly blackouts reach every sector.

8am Saturday June 5 is our first yard sale of the season!  A plethora of USA made tools, various and sundry home appliances and fixtures, and featured will be Gingoog Electric Trading Company demonstrating their line of 1^st quality portable generators, as well as their line of electrical widgets.  If you want to consign, bring it by.  We have some old stock from last year that will disappear at great prices also.  The truth is I only do these yard sales for the free donuts from Jack.

I am happy to report that the sheeting is installed on the first BAMATA sailboat.  Our design engineer, Toby,  chose to build sailboats amongst the clouds and we are sure that he is more comfortable in the skyward seas.  Fair winds, my friend…….

Wednesday at 11am at Café Caliente, and this week, many spouses/partners are planning to attend, so all are welcome and encouraged. 

Don’t forget the river flotilla next weekend.  Friend Roy’s refitting of his 30’ will likely be ready to sail in time.  The boat is available for sale in the 25K range, and is fitted with ample deck space and live wells.  This class of fiberglass boat is a rare find in Mindanao.

Our community Peso jar contents were emptied in support of retaining a lawyer for one of the children who was allegedly prostituted by a local Expat.  This case is monitored very closely to ensure the integrity of the process and the veracity of the verdict.

Freedom remains in dry dock, and is in the reconstruction phase.  All of the bilge rot has been purged as well as the failed fuel tank.  The helm has been relocated to a flying bridge above, which allows for a greatly increased deck area.  It has been an unfortunate, but fun project, and I expect her hull to be in the drink next month.  We’ll have new electronic equipment to test, so plan on hopping aboard!

Alcohol Anonymous meetings are held every Sunday morning downtown at 10am.  Though I am not a member, please contact me for details, as it is a friendly and welcoming group. 

Time to rejuvenate the motorbike rides, in a more peaceful and respectful manner of individual prowess.  Wanna join?  We’ll discuss on Wednesday at Café Caliente.

‘Til next time,

Greg May

03-13-10
Greetings All!
The river rarely meets meander phase these days!
River traffic has slowed, though there have been a few small shipments of large diameter logs in past weeks. The daily blackouts continue to plague the region, as well as the entire island of Mindanao, so say varied reports. ANECO, Butuan’s electricity provider, is making every effort methinks to maintain their lines and relationships with their customer’s under very difficult circumstances. ANECO is a distributor functioning at the whims of a provider. In CDO, a blackout schedule was provided to customers, but was not followed, which methinks is much worse than being surprised by a blackout! ANECO folks are polite, conscientious and competent, and one hopes that the populous treats them with due courtesy in these difficult times.
Conspiracy theorists abound as to why the blackouts are occurring, relative to the upcoming elections, but the bottom line is that Mindanao is in electrical ‘trouble’ and solutions are likely far off. Feeding the conspiracy crowd is the question of why has all this missing electricity suddenly been found for the Pacman fight, and why can’t it be ‘found’ every day?
As we know, the blackouts have quite a profound ‘trickle down’ effect on our community. For the aged and homebound, medical equipment, air conditioners and fans stress an already strained condition. Small business, which drives local economy, is put to real tests. The cost of the purchase, maintenance and operation of private generators is a difficult burden for a bottom line to meet. Additionally, orienting a generator so as not to be obtrusive can be difficult in limited space, and folks are less inclined to partake in a relaxing meal next to a loud, stinky generator. For example, last Wednesday at the Expat 11am Café Caliente gathering, our group of 17 watched 12 customers be turned away at the restaurant doors due to the blackout, as well as the lunch orders associated with our group. That is tough to take. A substantial ice manufacturer reported that sales were down 70% because a 48hr constant supply of electricity was required to ‘cook’ the ice. Other businesses have chosen to purchase generators, but they are loud and many available here are of poor quality. Loud generators are not very inviting! Here at Riverside Marina, we have laid off staff, and our boat projects are invariably delayed. Heck, last week I was scared to turn on my shears to buzz-cut my scalp, for fear that I’d end up with an inverse Mohawk if the elec died after the first pass!
Since we last met, a number of exciting events have played out.
1. It appears that we have secured the introduction of the highest quality genetic material for beef cattle this region has ever experienced, (market value upwards of 100K). I have been seeking a qualified partner in this search for 7 years. In short, the goal is to increase the quality/taste/nutrition/marketability of the domestic cattle population. But the intent is to include the small producer, not necessarily the large producers. With the invaluable assistance of Mssrs. Rogelio Yu and Sid Calo, it appears a burgeoning relationship with Caraga State University is at hand. The CSU administration should also be lauded for considering the relationship with great care relative to embryonic research. CSU has wonderful facilities and a beautiful campus but is in its infancy. They have the technical talent-now they have the opportunity. I’ll keep y’all posted.
2. The leadership of BAMATA, the Banowaon-Manobo-Talaandig Tribal Council is facing the challenges of maintaining/preserving/respecting their indigenous culture in the face of a shrinking globe. One of the dynamics in play is the astute recognition that effective management of their natural resources is perhaps the keystone of said challenges. One stated goal is to be reluctant to market raw resources but rather utilize said resources to produce an end product offering to the world. It rarely makes good business sense to sell raw material only to have to pay for the finished products made from same. Only a very few profit from this type of business model and this region has quite a few examples of this type of practice. The exciting news is that Riverside Marina was very fortunate to be able to retain the craftsmen who constructed the balanghai vessels, to construct (2) 16’ sailboat frames. With these frames, our sailing Pro Toby G. is going to design a unique boat with today’s version of sailing technology. Upon the completion of the first prototype, we will deliver said boat upriver, (waaaay upriver), to the tribes, and explore how they can manufacture said boats with the materials unique to their clime, as well as their design input. The finished product intends to be a collection of differing seafaring experience formulated into a craft constructed of unique materials. These vessels will be presented to the world bearing the Tribal logo on each sail, along with an informational book introducing the Tribes and our region to the world, as well as a catalogue of all wares produced by Butuanons and surrounding peoples. Upon completion of the first two prototypes, I will initiate the process of securing the necessary patents as well as international classification of this unique wooden sailboat, found only in our clime! All are welcome to drop by Riverside Marina to view to construction process. Construction of the first prototype begins this Tuesday.

It bears noting that both of these projects would not have been possible without Art Valdez and his crew of heroes permitting my support and participation of their magnanimous undertakings. This connection between me and Art’s bunch would not have happened without a few forward thinking Butuanons I met when I was ‘permitted’ to participate in both the Butuan Global Forum, and Butuanon Yahoo discussion board.
It appears that unfortunately these forums are lorded over by a single dictatorial moderator who apparently is unable to get over his high esteem of himself, by allowing differing viewpoints that don’t coincide with his vision of how the world, ‘should be’. What is most unfortunate is that rules are meted out dependent upon his own interpretations and whims, and with his ‘delete’ button, thwarts and manipulates differing viewpoints. Legitimate discussion groups have ‘teams’ of moderators to guard against just this type of information manipulation. I encourage the Butuanon members of these discussion boards that are on my mailing list to question this embarrassing conduct, for such censorship only perpetuates the impoverished human conditions prevalent in a Butuan.
Without my previous inclusion in both groups, I don’t meet some of the locals who have assisted in the above named projects. Butuan loses. This is a prime example of how censorship stunts growth for all. If Butuan did not have a 70% poverty rate, manipulating the two premier Butuan related discussion groups, ‘might’ have a degree of validity, but given current human and political conditions, choking the free exchange of ideas only perpetuates same. Butuan has much more salient issues than being bogged down with internet snits.

To wit;

3. Lastly, this next event may not be accurately described as ‘exciting’ in its overall context, but it is very encouraging for those who are built with a civic ‘bent’. In reference to Item #3 in the last newsletter, I was honored to receive an invitation to meet with the Director of the International Justice Mission (IJM) yesterday in Cebu. This was coordinated by the administrative staff of Project Destiny Kids-a local shelter and rescue Ministry for Butuan’s trafficked and prostituted children. Much was learned. As you may know, human trafficking/child prostitution, (in all its forms), is perhaps the most difficult crime to prosecute, if for no other reason than the victims are ‘unreliable’ on a witness stand. IJM retains a staff numbering 40 investigators and lawyers, and its offices reside in a compound resembling a ‘Bourne series’ security setting. This is testament to inherent disregard the pimps/traffickers have for human life or civility. Be it known that sex with any child 18 or under is a prosecutorial offense, and an increasing number of countries are following the USA’s lead in prosecuting its citizens for offenses occurring in other countries.
As presented in the last newsletter, most of the more notorious of the local Expat population chose to leave Butuan last year, with a little encouragement from yours truly. This is my specific advocacy. Others involved in the fight against child abuse/trafficking are after local individuals who have/and are, making fortunes on the skin of Butuanon boys and girls. More Butuanons need to step up, and if you email me, I’ll direct you to local advocacy groups. Rescued children are feeling safe enough to name names, and identify rapists via photos. Soon, posters will pop up at all Ports warning all visitors that Butuan’s children are ‘NOT FOR SALE’. Knowing and experiencing the tactics and threats of these creeps and rapists, I and those others involved in this advocacy are feeling a bit more at ease knowing that IJM has our back.
To date, none of the death threats, texts or letters that have circulated around Butuan defaming or threatening me, have been signed by a living, breathing human being whose presence on this earth can be quantified. An unsigned letter’s content is never worth the paper it is written on, but this is how cowards conduct their lives, in the creepy shadows of society. An adult wouldn’t have them, so they go after the kids!
Get angry and do something…today!
Til next time,
Greg May

02-15-10

Butuan Ramblings!

Greetings All!

Holidays are passed, the world turns and the river flows.

Butuan Ramblings (BR) has restarted and reshaped and refitted its design!  My thanks to all that have wondered where my weekly offerings had disappeared to, and wondered about my health/security. All is now well.

BR is going to ease off the pedal a bit because my honeydo list is rather top heavy at this time.  Freedom is being completely refitted, a construction project at the Marina is commencing, and a book I wrote about my solo horseback ride across the USA in 1996 is in editing phase.

My plan is to spook up an offering twice a month, and I continue to seek guest columnists-so if you want hang your butt out on a limb from this tree, you are most welcome!

We will wait until end of March, early April for the first yard sale of the year.  Current listing is attached.

We are offering a new transport service which features airport pickup, a tour of Butuan and a stop at each hotel to view accommodations.  See attached.

The airport kiosk continues to be well received.  Advertising rate is P500 per month, with the added bonus of free ad space on the www.butuanexpats.com website.

Our property in Sintos Subd. is for sale, with very attractive terms for a qualified buyer.  No bank financing needed!  See attached for a sample mortgage.

Want to live in Butuan for free??!!  See attached ‘2nd floor’ for details.

Congrats to friend Roy in the refitting and recent launching of Rosebud, a 30′ vessel outfitting for fishing.  Shakedown cruises are imminent!

Island Motor Tours is a new venture in our clime.  Wander by the new, well designed, Malvar Circle Commercial Center next to City Hall/Uncle Sam’s and look for the two beautiful motorcycles, and you have found friend Dan welcoming you to chat. www.islandmotortours.com provides info.  Welcome Dan!

Speaking of motorbikes, let’s try for next Sunday morning for our next ride?

In the coming weeks I will explore the following issues;

1. The rolling blackouts in our clime.

2. The current Butuan taxing structure.  For example, a business in San Vicente pays the same tax rate as a downtown biz, yet does receive the same quality of essential services. Can this be changed to reflect fairness?

3. Human trafficking/child prostitution in Butuan.  As some of you know, a consortium of agencies with which I am involved with has successfully encouraged three Expats involved in this crap to vacate these climes in the last year.  This year we ratchet up pressure as convictions are the goal.  Soon posters will be seen in all local ports and participating businesses, increasing the awareness that Butuan’s children are not for sale.  Two Expats residing in Butuan are currently under investigation by an international advocacy group.  The advent of Project Destiny Kids has been the keystone in this advocacy, as it provides a loving shelter in which prostituted children can heal, and more importantly, identify child rapists via photographs.

4. I have been exploring the feasibility of introducing a Hospice chapter in Butuan.  According to a prominent local physician, there is an abnormally high cancer rate in Butuan.

5. I hope to be able to report that Butuan City will be added to the list of Ports of Call in the Philippines before summer.  International cruising yachts are always looking for ports that have available integral services.  Once we have networked effectively so that these needs are available, Butuan can be added to the international list.  In addition, Butuan is perhaps the most effective and accessible typhoon shelter in the country.  The hurdle to overcome is the worldwide perception that Butuan, (as part of Mindanao), is not a safe harbor.  Imagine large cruising yachts laying up at the downtown PPA facility!

6. Riverside Marina has contracted with the gents who built the Balanghai boats to construct framing for two 16′ sailboats.  Friend Toby, who started his sailing career with Neptune, will oversee the ‘modernization’ of these frames and bring them to completion.  The prayer is that via the facilitations of friend Sid Calo, and Datu Andaya of the BAMATA tribal council, that we can collectively design these ‘day sailors’ with uniqueness substantive enough to warrant international classification.

The end product would be a floating piece of furniture whose features celebrate the heritage of the BAMATA Tribal members, whose logo will be on its sail.  The unique wood, design and representative history will be offered to the world via the internet.

7. Prior to the May elections, I hope to be able to explain to this readership exactly how much money enters the Butuan Government and the source of same.  In the interest of transparency, I wonder if the citizenry is able to quantify revenues and audit expenditures.  It seems that current leadership is criticized profusely for mismanagement of public funds, but I have never seen any supporting documentation.  I have always thought that any person serving the public trust would embrace such a review.

8. There is a dearth of community notices of upcoming events among the local media.  Let us find out why.  Cable provider’s interpretation of community access channels seems to be the allowance of advertising by a select few private businesses, as well as utility notices.  ABS-CBN is not much better, though they only have a 30 minute window for their evening news.  In many other climes, local TV Cable providers are mandated to provide such a community channel specifically for upcoming events and notices.  I wonder if that is true here.  This void of information was really evident when most of the citizenry was not informed about the arrival of the Balanghai boat, or its send-off.  These wonderful and uplifting events were missed by 90% of the citizenry.  That is a real shame.

9. Speaking of the Balanghai’s-currently sailing south of CDO-I will keep you updated periodically of their progress.  Construction of a third boat, designed to act as a tender, is scheduled to begin this week.

10. The institution of a Community Action Center.  This is basically a resource for citizens to voice their questions and concerns about issues that arise in both public and private relationships.  A sort of mediation center, but with teeth!  Hopefully a CAC can be absorbed with the Chamber of Commerce, when the Chamber attains viability.

To that end, please consider, (or reconsider), joining, (or rejoining), the Butuan Chamber of Commerce.  Past misdeeds are past.  Let them lie and serve as learning points of the future. There is little chance of growth if a business community is fractured.  A vibrant COC advocates on behalf of the private sector.  Without same, public sector interests can run amok.

Chamber President Alan Silor is a bright, humble and forward thinking gentleman.  Please give the man a chance to succeed on behalf of Butuan.

Thank you,

Greg May

www.butuanexpats.com

The velocity of the Agusan increased to 8 knots during low tide today.  Flood season is warming up for its typical 2 month obsession.  Methinks that some of its vigor has already been spent during the flooding of a few weeks ago, so perhaps we may expect a rather mild flood season.  To this end, we must acknowledge those whose forethought inspired the viaduct system completed 3 years ago, that divert flood waters from central Butuan.  If monitored and managed as designed, downtown Butuan should never be flooded again during normal seasonal increases.  This is not to say that the system is designed to alleviate ‘un’natural occurrences, but rather to ensure that our city systems are protected from normal tropical gully washers.  If one has been paying attention, the effects of pronounced rainfall have been greatly mitigated in the past few years as compared to previous times.  Storm water systems have been installed in the city in a requisite diameter to flush ‘gully washers’ in a timely manner, and the viaduct, (when managed appropriately), assists in the effort.  Many remember 2′ waters at the Gaisano intersection, as well as other locations, but please recognize that these conditions are now short-lived.  Connect the dots folks!  Whether via the City or other entity, the conditions are vastly improved!   Credit given to those responsible.

Under certain conditions, sometimes sea level relative to JC Aquino is less than a 2% grade, so storm systems don’t purge with a great deal of velocity.  At high tide, the outlying villages get swamped.  Next time Butuan experiences a deluge, check the tide chart-that will tell you how deep the ‘pools’ are.  Low tide means the pools are short lived, high tide-not so much!

GTS Auto Accessories is a great new shop located on T.Calo extension.  Drop in and let Gerry show you his wares, and they install stereos, horns, and other accessories.

The new Prince Hotel next to Santos hospital on Montilla is going through its birthing process as we speak.  Located in the old Carl Patrick structure, the new facade greatly enhances the downtown appearance.  I have not had the chance to drop in for a peek, but will do so during holiday week and report my findings.  A large new hotel in Butuan is big stuff, not only for appearance, but understanding that the ownership did due diligence and must have determined that continued growth qualified said investment.  What might they know???

Local and national TV news have aired segments detailing the dangers of fireworks.  Wonderful!  3-4 years ago TV news during the holidays was awash in video of entire neighborhoods burning and people displaced due to irresponsible use of fireworks.  Burning structures generate gobs of smoke and heat, and many don’t realize the nasty effects of a structure fire.  Our village banned aerial fireworks last year.  Can you imagine how many nearby structures would be melted if an unspent rocket landed in the native roof of our 2 story building?  The local fire department does not have a reputation for ‘quick response’, less so in an outlying area.  Here’s hoping that this holiday season does not bring despair to some homes due to some numbskull with a lighter and a bottle rocket!

I’ll be spending holiday week working on the butuanexpat website, hoping to make it more serviceable to visitors.  After the 1st, I would really appreciate comments on both its appearance and content.  The content is an ever-changing critter, and one person holding the strings is not appropriate.  I would also like to invite guest writers or topical writers.  The value of the website can be determined by remembering each of our personal struggles upon our first arrival, that being the acquisition of accurate information about the why’s and wherefores of the Butuan region.  Getting the information kiosk at the arrival terminal this year was a big step toward said goal.  The task next year is to unify the web presence of the public entities in Butuan so our City is presented to the world in a coordinated manner.

Next week we’ll chat about the year in review and prioritize our intents of civic service for 2010.  A community action center, a quantifiable transparent City annual report, and Navigational channel marker installation encouraging international cruising yachts to shelter and visit Butuan are a few items on my list.  Continued vigilance in participating in the protection of children from foreign abusers is a constant.

What is on your list?

I hope your holidays are wonderful!

Peace to all!

g

Greetings All!

Not understanding the difference between ‘partly cloudy’ and ‘partly sunny’, dawn on the glassy Agusan River emerges under a crescent moon, on its way to slumber.  As we approach the holidays, river commerce is almost non-existent.  The large sawmills continue to thrive while the small contract operations merge into the banks of the river-only to be unearthed by some archeologist in a distant time.

One of the highlights of being allowed to hang around the Balanghai crew was to meet a gent who actually took part in the excavation of the remains in Libertad back in the 70’s.  Imagine his thoughts witnessing the rebirth of this vessel!  By the way, the expedition team is looking for an individual, group or company to sponsor the construction or a smaller companion craft, that will be motorized and able to assist the two sailing vessels should the need arise.  What a great advertising opportunity for comparatively low cost!

Before I forget, our last yard sale of the year is next Saturday, and the deals will be outstanding!  We have a solid inventory and really want to clean house, so come early!

As some of you may know, I have been intimately involved for the past few months is a court case involving friend Bob Dupras, he of 80 years young.  While not getting into the particulars of his case, suffice to say that he was kicked out of his house and abandoned with $40 in his pocket, and in frail medical condition.  Over the past few months there have been court cases involving Expats in our region and discussed on the internet.  The knee-jerk reaction among Expats has typically been that Expats never get a fair shake in Philippine courts.  This mindset is often enflamed with the knowledge that the Philippines actively recruits foreigners to visit and reside in this country, but can never achieve basic rights associated with other democracies.

To many Expats, fluctuating immigration policies is just another Filipino scam, which the international travel guides warn all visitors about.  In conjunction with this mindset are the recent upheavals in Mindanao, so much so that I see Butuanons living outside this country are writing to the USA Ambassador asking whether it is safe to visit Butuan!  Do they feel that getting an honest appraisal from local officials is unattainable, or am I reading too much into the situation?   Hmmmm.

Back to Bob; his court process has been a drawn out affair, but that is no different than anywhere.  Bottom line is that he has been treated with respect and honor by both his court appointed attorney, and the presiding judge.  He did not win, nor did he lose-his case was adjudicated in a fair manner, regardless of the nationalities involved.  This should be noted by every Expat in this clime, especially those that spew ignorant verbiage demeaning this country and its people.  In my experience, the greater percentage of those in public service are proud and honest people, who work at insidiously low compensation in the effort to improve the condition for all.

Wishing here that the judiciary had some real ‘teeth’, but that is an issue for another day!

Bob is doing well and would like visits from his old friends, noting that he has resided in Butuan for more than 27 years!

I was pondering this dawn at the low tide-lowest all year!  Last year at this and time we were flooded, and now the boats lay massaged in the muck awaiting a higher tide release.  Such is life!

See you next Saturday beginning at 8am, at the yard sale, and Wednesday at Café Caliente at 11am!

Peace to all!

g

Dawn finds the Agusan peacefully flowing to sea-basking in the quiet mirth a successful weekend surrounded by friends and family.  The Agusan prepared herself gloriously and her conduct in accommodating an ancient relative by suddenly calming her ferocity allowed for a safe receiving of the ancient one.

In some places around the world, the past few days have been the holiday of Thanksgiving.  This holiday celebrates the meeting of cultures symbolized by a feast for all, and the welcoming of family and old friends.

And so it was on Saturday, that a long lost loved one appeared out of the sunlit haze from far asea.  As her brightly colored sunlit sails paralleled the coast, we wondered if she would pass us by in a rebuke for keeping her away from the remains of her forefathers home for so long.  Alas, she tacked to port and headed into the loving and welcoming arms of a people starved for a touch of her most valuable cargo-heroes who brought the message of nationalistic pride borne out of hard work, persistence and faith, with every wave and smile.  As she glided along toward the PPA in the center of town, brightly decorated vessels of every size motored of paddled along side, and those on shore waved flags of wonderment and pride.  Upon approaching the pier, hats were waved, tears flowed and eyes were wide.  Countrymen, who had voyaged to the top of the world, brought a long lost child back to the womb.

The Balanghai will rest and repair for a while in Bading, where a sister ship is under construction.  Today the crew will put her in the dry to inspect and prepare for her next journey.  As you may know, the intent is to sail throughout Asia and eventually the world.  ‘Sail the world’ and ‘climb Mt Everest’-two phrases of three simple words!!

After witnessing the reception in Butuan, and given the current economic/cultural/humanistic climate in this country, I wonder if the significance brought is better served in her circumnavigating this country prior to attempting a global first.  I certainly understand the reasoning, but perhaps the cargo of inspiration has its highest value in the Philippines.

Our next yardsale is Dec. 19 and we are loading up with new stuff.  All is on display inside the restaurant building at Riverside.  The restaurant is closed to the public for the month of December as we transition to a membership clientele while emphasizing charters, marina biz and private gatherings.  We always enjoy and appreciate visitors, but please text prior to entering the facility.  We expect one or two boat launchings next month, floodwaters being the determining factor, so I hope all will come by for those celebrations.

Have you visited the landslides on the Mt. Mayapay road?  This is a road our Expat motorbike club has frequented often.  The Mt. Mayapay environmental watchdog group has been critical of the conduct of some local politicos for allowing operations involving heavy equipment in that clime, and it now seems that the group’s fears are coming to fruition.  One wonders of the happenings there as rain season approaches.

See you at Café Caliente at 11am this Wednesday!

Peace to all!

g

Greetings All!

I have been tracking the Agusan River for 4 years, and today the velocity reached 16 knots!!!!  That is a speed that approaches Class rapids!  In years past during flood season, 12 knots was tops.  My guess is that the viaduct and drainage systems were not prepared for the sudden emergence of floodwaters ‘current’ly flooding the city.  Said mechanical systems are now likely inoperable due to the ‘psi’ of the Agusan.  The river gave little warning, and those responsible for diverting and diminishing said flow are sure to be burning the midnight oil, as it were.

In short folks, Butuan City is flooded and facing a real disaster.  The storm hovering over our clime is now slow moving.  A steady rain has dumped on us for 5 straight days, and might linger for another 3.  My thoughts immediately turn to the residents of Brgy. Agao, who receive the full brunt of the River prior to making a 90 degree turn to meet the tide.  Agao feels the brunt, and off its banks lays the 3^rd deepest hole in the entire river.  Matched against incoming tides, this location is the first fight resulting in substantial whirlpools and undercurrents.  A few years ago I took Joy’s (my wife), family to Agao to show them the underwater geography via sonar and attempted to explain the likely scenario of why their 5 year old brother drowned there some 35 years ago.   It was a solemn occasion, but our ‘Nanay’ never let go of my arm as she sat beside me looking at the sonar, and understanding the currents involved.  As most of us recognize, understanding the reasons why a loved one is lost is a wonderful tool for transitioning from sadness of a loss, to gladness of a life lived.

As to Joy, and if you’ll allow me a bit of license, we had an epiphany of sorts.  I had a full van the other day, and I wanted to show the beautiful statue erected by Dr. Malvar, across from the Balanghai Hotel, which is owned by same.  Without getting into the ‘why’s and wherefore’s’, it suffices to state that ‘Bones Malvar’ is a soul of vision and love for Butuan.  He is creating out of his wallet that which the public sector should have been doing long ago.  As we passed by the newly erected statue, a City dump truck drove past.

My wife, completely on her own, offered aloud the sentiment of how distasteful it was for a politician to print his name on a dump truck that was purchased from public funds-the peoples money-in the view of such a grand gift to the public from a private wallet-and without any personal recognition needed.  Kind of like the old saying, ‘If you have to tell someone how good you are,….you’re not.’

Talk about hitting the nail on the head!!!

Our local politicos-pardon the interruption!

Please note that among Expats and visiting foreigners, this practice of extolling the virtue of procuring the requisite tools for efficiently operating a jurisdiction, is clearly the most ‘guffawed’ at practice witnessed throughout this country.  In my little mind, the practice of plastering a politicos photo and name on a banner or vehicle extolling the perception that without said politicos’ participation, said event or vehicle would not be possible, is a decided sham and insult to the intelligence of very people said politico was ‘hired’ to serve.

It’s the politicos ‘Job’ to procure a service vehicle or to provide the environment to create an event!!!  YEEESH!

Like about 70% of Butuanons that have known suffrage in this dastardly oppressive and cruel environ, my beloved wife spoke up on her own volition.  Me, you, the pronounced local generational families, Datu’s, and the like, we are all the same.  We are equal.  No one is better than another.  The love in your family is no stronger or weaker than the love in another’s.  I wonder if humans, as a specie, will ever realize this fact?

Lets be clear, this practice is not just the local politicos…..perhaps it is habit and the way things have always been done, er, just like the horrible clan whackings/beheadings a bit to our south this week.  Mindanao tourism officials may as well take an extended vacation at this point.

This town is experiencing an activism that to my little brain, has never been seen.  Any sitting politico that considers this ‘rising’ to be a threat is simply not thinking.  Smart politicos work to recognize current conditions in the year 2009.  The internet is flush with awareness.  Butuan is served by Butuanon Yahoo Group and the Butuan Global Forum, as well as other less pronounced websites concerned with local happenings.  Whacking a local journalist or candidate is not effective strategy anymore.  The killings to the south were perpetrated by really stupid people-it ain’t 1966 anymore-they will fry-because even if the Philippine justice system wimps out, the world won’t allow such horror.  Mark it down.

As I have often related, the current 25-40 generation of Butuanons, in my view, is in the process of advancing this clime to unbounded heights.  I have such faith in their efforts.  They are respecting their father’s, (a phrase), but interjecting internationally accepted standards in so many areas so as to participate and compete in a shrinking world.  The most telling virtue is that they volunteer-the truest indicator of goodness.  Bless them. Support them. Encourage them.  The time for Butuan to introduce itself to the world is now.  Let us hope and pray that our upcoming elections are a peaceful and honorable process.

Sorry for the lateness this week, the flood conditions have put us on duty 24/7.  Hope to see you at Café Caliente today at 11am.

Peace to all,

G