An old man selling shirts in the market

On a trip to the Bankerohan Public Market, I caught a shot of this old timer selling t-shirts. Looks like he’s in a hurry!

Comelec Studying Gun Ban affect on US Soldiers – Mindanao Roundup

The case of Master Sergeant Steve Saunders is back in the news again today.  Apparently, the COMELEC (Commission on Elections) is now studying the Election Gun Ban to decide how it affects US Soldiers around the country.  It seems that they could issue a ruling at any time.  At stake is whether US forces in the country would be allowed to be armed during the 4 month election period.  Philippine forces, of course, are allowed to carry firearms.  It would seem to me that American forces, who are here at the bequest of the Philippine government, should also be allowed to protect themselves.

I also reported last week that the AFP had uncovered a bomb making factory in a cave in Surigao del Sur.  They are now saying that the cave contained at least P11 Million worth of explosives!  Good catch, guys!

The US Government Rewards for Justice program is now offering a $50,000 reward for Terrorist Bomber Abdul Basit Usman for his connection in the Mindanao Bombings.

It’s cloudy and cool here in Davao today.  Cool is nice for a change, but I’d rather have some sunshine!

The Best Native Durian is in Sulu

Contrary to many reports about Sulu being the most dangerous place in down South, the people from Sulu are the most amiable I have met.  During my 5 days stay there, I have learned a lot of great food well-loved by most Tausugs and one of which is their native durian fruit.  Of course, Davao has been dubbed as the city of exotic fruits but Sulu’s own durian has a very distinct taste compared to Davao’s version.  Their native durian is by far my best taste and Sulu will always be the top place to go to for durian eaters

Tricycle Races?

Actually, these tricycles in Kidapawan City are not racing, just carrying their passengers up the highway to their final destination.

Beaming with US Ambassador Kenney in Sulu

Despite the burning heat in Sulu, both the US Ambassador Kristie Kenney and I managed to give our best smiles as we pose for the camera during a recent visit of Usec. Karen Hughes’ and her party in Maimbung National High School - Annex in Bgy. Maimbung, Sulu last week.

My verdict of the entire trip? It was worth it.  It was a chance for the entourage to take a peek in to the many development programs implemented in the school and the benefits of one of USAID’s Programs, Education Awareness Support Effort – Matching Grant Program (EASE-MGP), which I am currently managing.  I shall be posting more photos of Sulu so hope you guys will enjoy it