BK Holds Clients’ Tiangge: BK Holds Clients’ Tiangge: “Pamaskong Handog ng Kabayan”“Pamaskong Handog ng Kabayan”By: Rymar Gutierrez

Last December 8 – 9, 2007, BK showcased its Microfi-nance borrowers’ products in a two-day Tiangge as part of its 50th Anniversary celebration. The weekend program, entitled “Pamaskong Handog ng Kabayan,” was filled with different activities participated by BK employees, clients, guests, and sponsors.

The Tiangge was opened at 9:00 am on December 8, with around 60 booths of clients from different branches of Bangko Kabayan. BK employees assisted the clients in setting up the booths and showing them where to sell their goods. The dry goods included katsa bags, candles, shell decorations, clothes, and all sorts of things for the house, while food booths sold native delicacies such as panutsa, atsara, banana chips, polvoron, suman and many oth-ers. In the afternoon, B-MEG hosted a seminar on hog raising, which was followed by a fun cooking show by Century Tuna. These seminars were attended by mostly KAPITAN members. Aside from the knowledge that the participants acquired from the lectures, the sponsors also gave away interesting prices and freebies.

But these were not the only surprises for the participants

and guests of the Tiangge. When the beat of the drums was heard and the bands started to rock, the night became more exciting. Seven local bands from different areas in Batangas battled

in Musikabataan 2007, after passing the audi-tions con-ducted before the main event itself. It was hosted by DJs Ella and Joseph from 99.1 Spirit FM. The “Chin up Band” from Balayan, Batangas won the first prize and received P 20,000. Runner-ups of the said event also received their respective prizes. And speaking of prizes, BK’s Grand Raf-fle draw was also held on the same night as 3 winners from San Juan, Mabini, and Calaca Branch brought home P122,000.00 worth of Entertainment Showcase items. Digital cameras, cellphones and grocery bags were also given as consolation prizes. The day was concluded by a magnificent fireworks display, accompanied by our very own anthem performed by the BK Choir.

The second day of the Tiangge started with the setup of booths once again. At 10:00 am, ABS-CBN Bayan Foun-dation gave a Grassroots Entrepreneurship Management (“GEM Patikim”) seminar, specifically on the topics of Personal Wealth Management and Opportunity Seeking. It was followed by Himig Bulilit, a series of childrens’ choirs’ presentations, which served as Christmas serenades to eve-ryone in the audience. Batang Atikha Savers Club, one of IRBFI’s partner NGOs, presented a puppet show empha-

Continued on page 2...

Mobile Phone Banking...p2, BK & GK...p3, Branch updates...p4, NBP...p7, Looking BacK...p10, HR Corner...p12

TINIGThe Official Newsletter of Bangko Kabayan

October - December 2007

Page 2 NEWSNEWS

BK Holds Clients’ Tiangge, continued from page 1...sizing the value of savings to children.

The next highlight of the second day was the Microfinance Awards wherein the best performing Microfinance bor-rowers were recognized and duly awarded. Each branch had one Best Center and this center received a cash award and a plaque of appreciation. The very first KAPITAN Center was also recognized for being the pioneer center and for continuing to operate for almost seven years now. The awardees were greeted by our very own kababayan and special guest, Mr. Ogie Alcasid. In the midst of the rain, the audience was still so excited and fascinated to see Ogie. When he stepped on the stage and began to perform, the audience was overjoyed and couldn’t resist the feeling of wanting to be closer to him. He even said, “Gusto ko lu-mapit sa inyo... kaya lang baka maapakan ninyo ako!”

It was another milestone for Bangko Kabayan and a way of giving thanks to all the people who supported the busi-ness for fifty years. It was just a beginning of the long jour-ney where we continue to encounter people that need our help and support, and in return, do the same for us in the end. Kudos Bangko Kabayan!!!

BK Expands Its BK Expands Its Services Thru Mobile Services Thru Mobile Phone Banking Phone Banking By: Jaylene Martinez Regero

Mobile phone banking is the newest service of Bangko Kabayan, Inc. which

aims to provide a fast, safe, convenient, and affordable way of banking for all the clients in the community. It was offi-cially launched last November 19, 2007 in 12 branches of BK. Each branch has one to two designated Mobile Phone Banking Specialists (MPBS). This became possible through the joint effort of RBAP-MABS, Globe G-Xchange, Inc. and BK. GXI launched an innovative service that turns cellular phones into electronic wallets that hold G-Cash. Globe or Touch Mobile subscribers only need to register and activate their G-Cash to avail of this service. Through short messaging service (SMS), subscribers can transfer money to other Globe or Touch Mobile users.

Mobile Phone Banking Services of BK are mainly Text-a-Payment (TAP), Text-a-Withdrawal (TAW), Text-a-Deposit (TAD) and Text-a-Sweldo (TAS). It also includes Cash-in and Cash-out service. Text-a-Payment allows mi-cro-borrowers to make their loan payments just by sending a text message. Our clients only need to activate their G-Cash with the help of MPBS, enroll at the nearest BK branch and load their G-Cash wallet at the nearest reseller. It is safe because an M-PIN which is entered upon activa-tion secures all transactions, convenient because we can

do our transactions anywhere just by texting, and cheapbecause the borrower doesn’t have to leave his/her busi-ness and travel to the bank. It also helps maximize sales, minimize the expenses, and also save time and effort for the clients.

We already have clients who make their payments through mobile banking, like Mrs. Ellen Garing, an MF client of Sampaguita Lipa City. The first time I visited her in her house and introduced the new service, she was a bit con-fused and hesitant to activate her G-Cash. But as I ex-plained the advantages and benefits, she eventually ac-cepted it. According to her, “this sounds very new!” Now, she is a merchant as well as a reseller of G-Cash in their place.

Another case is Mr. Randy Patena of Poblacion, Ibaan. He is grocery owner and an MF client of BK. Now, people can buy products in his store using G-Cash as payment. “Maganda itong bagong service ng BK dahil naging hi-tech na ang tindahan ko, para nang SM!” he said, full of enthusiasm. Ms. Rizza Alvarez, a BK depositor from the Ibaan Public Mar-ket, says that it is convenient for her to do her withdrawals and deposits just by texting. “Mas madali na sakin ngayon ang magbangko sa BK gamit lang ang G-Cash ko dahil napaka-busy kong tao,” she said. They are only some of the clients who have seen the benefits of using the mobile phone banking service. With this new technology, we can now say that our cellphone can serve as a mini-branch of BK.

It is such an honor for us, Mobile Phone Banking Special-ists (MPBS) in all branches, to be trusted and welcomed as a part of the BK family. Among many others, we are very proud that we were the ones chosen and tasked for intro-ducing this new service. We are very grateful that every time we visit our partners in the community, it has been a learning lesson to us as we exchange ideas with them. We believe that we do not just have to satisfy our clients through the services that we render, rather exceed their expectations and make them truly delighted.

MPBS at work: Bangko Kabayan’s MPBS talking to employees of Ibaan Municipal Hall about G-Cash.

Page 3 NEWSNEWS

BK’s ATM Fully Operational!BK’s ATM Fully Operational!By: Charlie A. Tejada

What is an ATM? An Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is a computerized telecommunications device that pro-vides the customers of a financial institution with access to financial transactions in a public space with out the need for a human clerk or bank Teller.

Last December 20, 2007, the very first ATM machine in Ibaan was made available for public use. This was EN-CASH’s ATM, located at the right side of BK’s Head Office. BK partnered with ENCASH, an independent ATM deployer, in order to provide additional service and convenience for its clients. Our customers will no longer need to go to other cities like Batangas and Lipa to with-draw their money using their ATMs.

At present, ENCASH owns the ATM and BK simply hosts the machine to provide its valued customers 24 whole hours of service. Megalink, Bancnet, and Express-net cardholders can withdraw from the ATM. The fee for balance inquiry shall be charged by the issuer bank, not by ENCASH or BK. An account holder can with-draw 4 – 10 times a day, depending on the issuer bank and can only withdraw P5,000.00 per withdrawal. The P35.00 convenience fee is in return for the time, effort and transportation expense spent in going to another bank or ATM to withdraw.

BK & GK: “Binhi ng Kapasku-BK & GK: “Binhi ng Kapasku-han, Gawad ay Kaligayahan”han, Gawad ay Kaligayahan”By: Frances Bathan

Last Dec. 16, BK’s Christmas Party was held at the GK Reunion Vil-lage, San Jose, Batangas. It started at 9:00 am with a Holy Mass that was officiated by Rev. Fr. Stephen, OSJ. Ms. Mary Anne Olan, Officer-in-Charge, HRD and Mr. William Bagui, Credit Adviser in IBB, were the emcees who definitely added more fun and color to the program. Mrs. Teresa M. Ganzon, our Managing Director, first gave her wel-coming remarks. New employees who were celebrating the Christmas party with BK at GK for first time were recognized and welcomed to the BK family. After this, Mr. Rudy Lubis, GK Regional Director, also welcomed everyone and explained how far GK had become. He shared with us the Vision-Mission of the reunion village and his experiences that surely inspired everyone to strive doing more for the common good.

The program would not have been complete without the presentations from some members of BK and GK family. We were enter-tained by the dance numbers

given to us by the GK kids and adults, as well as the one from NBB. Our MPBS (Mobile Phone Banking Specialists) also presented a skit of the Holy Family as a simple way of reminding everyone the real essence of Christmas. The BK Choir sang the BK hymn and two other wonderful songs. There were also fun games both for kids and adults.

During lunchtime, there was an ongoing rummage sale for everyone. Ms. Violy Echague, IRBFI Executive Director, also prepared grocery items for sale at very reasonable prices to GK residents. Right after lunch, a surprise activ-ity was re-vealed to eve-ryone – the parol-making contest. BK employees were grouped randomly to-gether with GK residents to come up with the most crea-tive and attractive parol made from the materials that were brought by the branches and departments.

It was then followed by a raffle draw wherein the grand prize, a 21” flatscreen TV, was received by Ms. Rosemarie Delen of SPB. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd groups who made the best parols received cash prizes worth P5000, P3000, and P1000 respectively.

The program was ended by closing remarks from our Presi-dent, Atty. Francis Ganzon. It was not the first time that BK celebrated Christmas with the GK family. It was quite different from the usual celebration, yet a very meaningful one.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All!!!

GK kids performing their dance num-ber for the BK audience.

One of the groups working on their parol using plastic bottles and sticks.

Lemery: From LCDP to Full Branch By: Sheree Lynne Mercado, Accountant

It has been a great pleasure to become part of a newly-opened branch. All LBB staff shared and experienced the hard times, when the building was under renovation. We heard the loud noise of hammers, saws and electric grills, and inhaled the dust or even some chemicals used inside the office. We always asked our clients’ pardon for the inconvenience. But all of these became worthwhile because from LCDP-Lemery since October 2006, Lemery became a full branch on its soft opening last September 21, followed by a grand opening held last October 22, 2007. The latter was started by a special Mass held in the bank followed by aribbon-cutting initiated by our dear President Atty. Francis S. Ganzon and Managing Director Ms. Teresa M. Ganzon. Blessing and tossing of coins followed. A short program was conducted wherein a video presentation was shown highlighting how BK began and how it became successful through the years. The opening was attended by the Ganzon family, BK Officers, co-employees from other branches, and some Microfinance valued clients. Other special guests who were present in the celebration were members of Western Bankers Association, LGUs of San Luis, Agoncillo and Lemery. LBB now serves its clients not only through micro-loans but with all products and services. On that same day, LBB generated savings and time deposits.

In connection with the opening of Lemery Branch, employee movement also followed. From the supervision of Mr. Zernan Za-balla (OIC of CBB), Mr. Rey V. Orense took the place as OIC of LBB. Other members of the BK-LBB family include: Rosenie Aya as Acting Branch Operations Head, Emmanuel Espino as DLB, Lovelie Magpantay Karen Ann Reyes, and Crispina Enriquez as Kabayan AOs, Jan Michael Quitain as Kapitan AO, and Gerlie Catapang as Teller. Richbert de Joya is also temporarily assigned to LBB as we wait for Genelyn Dimaculangan as CA. I will also leave LBB because I’ll be assigned to CLC on 2008, as Iris Oman-dap takes my place as MF Bookkeeper.

As the 11th branch opened by Bangko Kabayan, we are very happy and proud that we are now a fully operating branch. It's really challenging since we are new in the market but we are also full of hope that with the unity and camaraderie we fostered among us, and with the continuous support from the management, we can reach our goal and achieve our mission.

Congratulations to all of us!!!

Batangas: Move Ahead, BCB! By: Lea Carlos, KABAYAN Supervisor

LCDP Batangas, after opening last April 3, 2006, finally became a full branch during the last quarter of 2007. The soft openingwas held last September 21, 2007. The officers and staff started the day with a mass at Basilica Church at 5:30 am. At the end of the day, it was a great achievement to be able to generate 150 accounts amounting to P 2.2 million. Two weeks before this, eachstaff went out to market for possible clients. They were given a target of 10 new accounts for the first day or P 100,000.00 each. Through proper motivation, teamwork and dedication to the job – they exceeded their targets. Truly, hard work never fails.

Last October 18, the grand opening took place. Fr. Ricardo Echague officiated the Holy Mass at 8:00 in the morning. Those pre-sent included local government officials such as Councilor Marvi Marino, officers from commercial banks, representatives from rural banks, existing clients, neighboring establishments, stockholders, officers and staff. Everybody was there to witness andgive their support as BK reached yet another milestone.

The atmosphere for the branch’s grand opening was overwhelming because people from all walks of life came in and joined the celebration. The true mark of a “Kabayan” was felt – having seen old and existing clients come in as a “kapamilya.” Mrs. Marilyn Espino, the owner of nearby restaurant, accommodated the parking of the clients’ vehicles. Everybody was greeted with a smile and went home satisfied. Although it was an exhausting day for the officers and staff of the branch, it was all worth it.

One Hundred and one days after its opening, BCB has reached P 11,136,772.06 in deposits with 848 accounts. More power and move ahead BCB!

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BRANCH UPDATES

Page 5

Mabini: BK Participates In Batang Atikha Savers Club Formal Launch By: Shyrelyn Diaz, Teller 1

Atikha Inc. Philippines held its grand launching of “Batang Atikha Savers Club” at Mabini, Batangas last September 22, 2007 in cooperation with Bangko Kabayan Inc. and Globe Telecommunications. The afternoon event featured talks on the pursuit of young children's potential to save on their own, leading to a vision of a better future and to ignite their passion to be-come successful individuals. Batang Atikha Savers Club was organized back in August of 2003 in San Pablo City, Laguna. It was formed to provide an ave-nue for children, especially children of OFWs, to develop discipline in han-dling money. The organization also provides immigration seminars through different workshops and trainings.

Even if it was raining heavily that day, guests and attendees from as far as San Pablo City graced the event with their presence.Ms. Cherry Lane Girado and Ms. Aileen Penas, Atikha Center for Development Coordinators, Ms. Mai Dizon-Anonuevo, Exec. Director of Atikha Inc., BASC Members from Laguna and the 250 registrants composed of teachers, school administrators, mu-nicipal government officials parents and children from different barangays in our locality were all there.

Our role as Atikha's partner in the event was lead by Mrs. Dorothy P. Bon, OIC-Mabini Branch followed by BK-IRB Foundation represented by Ms. Violy Echague, Sir Hadjie, Sir Gerneil, Ms. Jona, Ms. RA & BK-MBB staff. During the ceremonial activity of BK-BASC partnership, Mrs. Bon talked about our responsibility as the Savers Club depository bank. Last November, BK & BASC started the process. Every BASC student member is part of a group, depending on which school they belong to, and they deposit their savings every Wednesday. Upon depositing their coin bottles, children and their guardians as well are taught the proper way of transacting deposits and withdrawals inside the bank. Afterwards, they are issued a new bottle for the next visit.

Manager Bon emphasized the importance of saving, living and loving. She said that learning to save at an early age will lead inliving a bright perspective in life thus, creating a good foundation as well. If every child is keeps this in mind, children will grow up knowing how to share the good experience of saving every coin they’ve got and sharing the blessings they have. “We will make sure that every denomination you drop in your coin bottles are carefully taken care of and we will be your ladder in realiz-ing your dreams!” she added.

Cuenca Branch By: Lorelyn Avestruz, Credit Advisor

Kagara ba ga ng Cuenca, mga Kabayan. Talagang sa talento at kasiyahan ay di matatawaran. Tulad na laang noong Tiangge-an; Mga center ay nagpasiklaban. Kanya-kanyang pakulo, kanya-kanyang pakana, mapansin laang kani-kanilang kakayanan. abala man at pagod ang katawan, pansin naman ang ngiti at kaligayahan!

Kasunod naman nuon ay ang Kapaskuhan. Ika-21 ng Disyembre noong aming ipagdiwang. Akalain nyo, ang tatlong Haring Mago ay nagsidaluhan (Boss Hermie, Boss Ronald, at Manager Rey) Talagang kahit anong mangyari, iba ang may pinagsamahan. Puno ng pagkain, puno ng palaro, sa kasiyahan talagang walang atrasan. Nag-extend pa ng selebrasyon sa isang bahay ng kasamahan. Masulit lang ang Kapaskuhan.

’Yan ang CBB. Sinusulit bawat pagkakataon, bawat panahon!

BK volunteers holding the Batang Atikha Savers Club coin bottles.

Page 6 FEATURESFEATURES

The “24The “24--Karat” GEMKarat” GEMAn Experience of ABS-CBN Bayan’s GEM Trainors’ Training, written by: Fides Ganzon

Last October, Gerneil and I started our 10-week Trainors’ Training in Grassroots Entrepreneurship Management. The course was offered by ABS-CBN Bayan Foundation, in part-nership with the Center for Community Transformation (CCT). The training took place in AMA Computer Learning Center, inside Guadalupe Commercial Complex.

I still remember the Friday mornings when we would meet up at 5:30 AM in order to be in Manila in time for class. Our first day was interesting. We met our classmates who were composed of local government employees, NGO workers, ABS-CBN Bayan staff, and other individuals. We were 24 all in all, coming from different companies but were all there for the same reason – to be accredited trainors of the Grassroots Entrepreneurship Management module, or simply put, to acquire enough knowledge on managing microenterprises in order to teach clients who are willing to and capable of growing their businesses.

We considered ourselves lucky because almost all of our professors were drill masters from the Asian Institute of Man-agement. They were all very well-versed with the topic that they discussed, as they were able to break down complex man-agement concepts into simple applications in the grassroots level.

The course started with modules on Self Mastery (Entrepreneurial Mindset, Personal Visioning, Wealth Management), followed by Mastery of the Environment (External and Internal Assessment). The meat of the curriculum was the Mas-tery of the Enterprise, which included Marketing, Operations, HR, and Finance. It was quite reminiscent of the BK “bizplan” days since we dealt with the same topics, only this time, they were all in Tagalog and the examples involved mi-croentrepreneurs. As each module was discussed, we did not only learn from the professors, but we also discovered a lot about our classmates’ institutions. We noticed similarities and differences in they way we dealt with our respective clients. We also learned about the concerns of employees from other institutions. Some conversations even brought out possible partnerships and projects between organizations.

During the latter part of the training, everyone was already getting excited to finish the course in order to get the accredi-tation. Of course, this was not possible if one did not pass a particular Competency Exam. We were brought back to our examination days as students—finding the most apt solutions for problems in case studies or creating cash flow state-ments for a particular enterprise. As we parted ways with teachers and classmates, we exchanged numbers and promised to keep in touch. It was a very fruitful experience for everyone. We did not only take home knowledge from experts in the field of enterprise management; we gained the precious “gem” of friendship between individuals and organizations who believed in the same cause.

A Leader With SoulA Leader With SoulBy: Rymar Gutierrez and Princess Arellano

Before this letter ends, allow me to thank you for everything. There are so much things to be thankful for. Thank you for being my mother, my best friend, my confidante, my mentor, and my adviser. Thank you for all the care, trust, patience, and understanding and for loving me unconditionally. Of all the lessons in life that you’ve taught me, this is the one I value most: “In life, it’s not important what you have. It’s neither the position nor the power that you attain because at the end of the day what’s essential is your relationship with GOD. (A letter from a daughter to her mother)

To succeed in our career, we need to take responsibilities in all our actions. Only you are accountable for whatever you do and you must be ready with all the consequences.

You’re also responsible for sharing your success to others. Good leadership cannot be measured by the number of people who follow your command. Being a leader means not only taking responsibility for one’s actions but by help-ing, encouraging, and expecting others to do the same. Learn how to motivate people to create a workplace where everyone will feel and at ease. You should take initiative and influence others to do the same. Good communica-tion is one of the keys to build trust by communicating openly and sincerely. Listen to people’s ideas and encour-age them to learn from their mistakes and support them if they take risks and fall. But most importantly, lead with soul.

We know a person who possesses the characteristics – a

Continued on page 7...

Page 7 FEATURESFEATURESNational Bilibid Prisoners,National Bilibid Prisoners,Binigyang PagBinigyang Pag--asa ng BK at SINAGasa ng BK at SINAGBy: Femer Mangubat

Naging kaugalian na ng ilang empleyado ng Bangko Ka-bayan ang pagdalaw sa mga inmates tuwing sasapit ang kapaskuhan. Ito ay para pasayahin ang mga kapatid natin na ang marami sa kanila ay nangungulila sa kanilang mga mahal sa buhay.

Sa pangunguna nina Ms. Violy Echague at Rose Del Rosario, masayang nakasama sa trip sina Ms. Norma Cometa (MFU Head), Lovely Vidal, Arlene Bagsit, Fe-mer Mangubat at Henry Dela Torre ng Audit Depart-ment. Kasama din sina Nelda Rosima ng Nasugbu Branch, Angie Alfante at Jona Nepomuceno ng Cuenca Branch.

Sa De Guzman Residence, sa Ayala, Alabang, unang tu-mungo ang mga empleyado ng BK at ang SINAG Group upang tipunin at ilagay sa kani-kanyang supot ang mga pagkain na ipamamahagi sa mga inmates. Naging abala sa paghahanda ng mga hotdog ang mga kababai-han, habang inilalagay naman ng mga kalalakihan at ibang kababaihan sa supot ang mga itlog, kendi, chichirya, tinapay, at hotdog. Sa pangunguna naman ni Ms. Chato Lopez ng SINAG, pinaalalahanan kami tung-kol sa mga dapat at hindi dapat gawin ng mga tulad nam-ing bibisita sa loob ng kulungan.

Sa mga first time sumama sa lakad na iyon, kinakabahan at natatakot ang ilan sa amin na dumalaw sa mga nakabi-langgo. Bagaman iba’t-ibang imahinasyon ang nabubuo sa aming kaisipan tulad ng mga napapanood namin sa pelikula, nabawasan ang aming tensiyon nang masaksi-han ng bawat isa sa amin ang kanilang mainit na pag-tanggap sa amin. Umawit ng pamaskong awitin ang ilan sa mga inmates at ang iba naman ay nagpakitang-gilas sa pagsayaw. Hindi mawala sa amin ang maawa sa mga inmates na dinalaw namin sa ospital, ang ilan ay pawang mga matanda na. Bakas sa kanilang mga mukha ang pagkasabik sa mga taong nagmamahal sa kanila. Na-pasaya rin namin sila sa kahit kaunting tulong namin na mula sa aming mga puso. Nagpasalamat ang isang pin-uno sa mga bilanggo, isang dating Kapitan ng Barangay, hindi niya maiwasan na lumuha sa tuwa dahil sa pag-asang may mga grupo ng tao na handang tumulong at magbigay ng kasiyahan sa mga tulad nilang higit na nan-gangailangan.

Tunay na isa ito sa aming mga karanasan na hindi la-mang nakakataba ng puso at hinding hindi namin ma-lilimutan.

A Leader With Soul, continued from page 6... woman who believes that leadership is really in the heart of leaders and what you do should come from your heart.

The heart as the spiritual center of our body gives us the courage and compassion to act. Without it, life seems to be empty and lost.

She serves as the trainor of all aspiring branch manag-ers, sharing all her knowledge, techniques, and ideas in managing a branch. She is not selfish to share all of these because she considers them as part of her family and Bangko Kabayan as her own home. “You will not be an effective leader unless you give your whole heart in serving,” as she always says. Being a leader is not only doing what is right but what is acceptable for all.

When people see you pro-mote continu-ous learning and notice the bene-fits that result from it, they are more motivated to follow your lead.

She is a good example of a leader who really guides her subordinates and not just gives instruc-tions or com-ments. For her, an effective and efficient leader is someone who can also pro-duce other leaders, not being satisfied with all the results but always keeping the door open to learning and im-proving. She is Mrs. Irene P. Guerra, a leader who leads with soul. She is a leader whom everyone will not forget and will remain in our heart; a leader who will be considered as the heart, mind and soul of the success that her trainees and subordinates achieved. And as she has always believed, “To teach is to touch someone’s heart.”

Mrs. Irene P. Guerra, current Branch Manager of BK - San Juan Branch.

Page 8 COLUMNSCOLUMNS

Violy EchagueKAMBIOOracle Ang Kwento ni Grace

Pasko! Mahabang bakasyon at pagkikita ng magkakapamilya. Nakakaligayang gunitain. Sabi nga ni Fr. Manny noong pagdiri-wang ng Misa noong Pasko, isang pagtupad ng Diyos sa kanyang pangako sa sangkatauhan na ipadadala niya ang kanyang anak para iligtas ang sanlibutan.

Isang linggo bago sumapit ang Pasko, isang tawag mula kay Trining ng Sagipbuhay ang aking natanggap para ipaalam na si Ka Julio, ang matandang aming pina-ampon mahigit na isang taon na ang nakaraan ay nasa ospital at na-stroke.

Paano kami makatutulong kay Ka Julio na nasa ospital? Mula sa napagbilhan namin sa lumang damit bumili kami ng bigas at mga delata para ipagbili sa kalahati ng halaga nito sa mga residente ng GK Reunion Village kung saan gaganapin ang Christmas Party ng mga empleyado. Tanong nila sa amin, “Bakit hindi na lamang ipamigay tulad ng ginagawa ng iba?” Bakit nga naman pahihira-pan pa namin ang aming mga sarili? Kung magmamay-ari ka ba ng mga bagay, alin ang makapagbibigay ng karangalan sa iyo bi-lang tao? Nilimosan ka o binili mo dahil kaya mong bayaran mula sa iyong kinita? Alam namin na ang mga pagsisikap at pag-mumulat sa aral ng karangalan ay mayroong ibubunga. Nagpa-ikot rin kami ng collection box noong pagdiriwang ng Banal na Misa para kay Hesus na ating kapatid. Nakalikom kami ng ha-lagang ipinaalam namin sa management na pinunan nila ang ka-kulangan. Noong Dec. 18 ng gabi, tumawag ako kay Trining na bibisitahin ko si Ka Julio at dadalhin ko ang tulong ng BK para sa kanyang pagpapagamot. Kinabukasan, nakatanggap ako ng tawag para sabihing namatay na si Ka Julio ng 2:00 n.u.

Malimit nating marinig na walang mag-iisa at malulungkot ngayong Pasko. Hindi napag-isa si Ka Julio. Habang nakalagak ang kanyang labi sa Sagipbuhay kasama niya ang kapuwa mata-tanda na nag-alay ng panalangin, ng mga di-inaasahang mga bisita na nagsagawa ng prayer service at higit sa lahat ang mga tagapangasiwa ng Sagipbuhay, sina Trining, Auring, Tita Paul, Vita, at Ms. Valenton na inalagaan hindi lamang ang pangan-gailangan ng kanyang katawan na mailagak sa huling hantungan, kundi higit sa lahat ang kanyang ugnayan sa Diyos. Sino ba siya? Si Ka Julio ay pansamantalang nakatira sa acquired asset ng Bangko Kabayan sa Lemery na hiniling ng nakabili na siya ay paalisin. Nasa kanyang kabataan ng umalis si Ka Julio sa Calapan, Mindoro para maghanap ng trabaho at napadpad sa Lemery sa isang pansiteria doon at naging tagapagluto. Mag-isang namuhay at nag-edad sa paninilbihan hanggang sa magsara ang pinagtatrabahuhan. Sa bakanteng lote ng BK, nanuluyan at palibhasa hindi na niya ganap na maikilos ang katawang paralisadomula baywang hanggang paa, ang mga taong napapadaan ang kusangloob na nag-aabot ng pagkain sa kanya. Maayos na inam-pon ng Sagipbuhay at minabuti niyang manatili dito kung saan nakatagpo siya ng kapanatagan sa buhay.

Sa pakikiisa sa Diyos sa tunay na kahulugan ng Pasko, si Ka Julio na rin ba ang tugon natin sa pangakong nais nating matupad?

Isa ulit nakakagiliw na karanasan ang ibinahagi sa atin ng isa sa mga tumatanglik sa programa ng Bangko Kabayan, ang Microfinance... Halina't maglaan tayo ng panahon upang basahin ang kwento ni Grace (KAPITAN ng Macalamcam B sa Rosario) at kapulutan ito ng mga aral sa buhay....

Minsan, may mga pangyayari sa buhay natin ang di natin inaasahan, at minsan tayo ay nagtatanong kung bakit? Bakit ako pa? O kung paano nangyari ito? At kung min-san naman ay tinatanggap natin at sinasabing “God's Will” or baka nangyari kasi may dahilan ang Diyos, tulad ng nangyari sa akin.

Ilang taon din akong nanungkulan sa KAPITAN at masa-sabi kong naging masaya ako sa aking tungkulin dahil narito ang puso ko, ang maglingkod. Nakapagpatayo ako ng Bahay Pulungan sa kagandahang loob ni Gng. Aurelia Cueto na payagang maipatayo ito sa lote niya. Nakapag-patayo kami ng Bigasan, Meat Retail Shop at Rentals. Nagkaroon din kami ng Scholarship Program na kung saan ang aming mabait na Manager Irene Guerra ang kauna-unahang nagdonasyon. Nakapagbigay din kami ng pamaskong handog para sa mga “indigents” sa pamam-agitan ng pagka-caroling sa karatig nayon. Nakakapagod pero masaya dahil nakapagpasaya kami ng tao. At marahil ay mga mga nasiyahan din sa aking paglilingkod kung kaya't muli ay binigyan ako ng isang tungkulin ang pagiging PTCA President. At gaya ng KAPITAN ay gi-nampanan ko rin ang aking tungkulin para sa kagalingan ng paaralan, maging sa kagalingan ng mga magulang. Subalit nakakalungkot isipin na ito pala ang magiging mitsa upang iwanan ko ang lahat ng tungkuling nakaatang sa akin. Sapagkat dito ko naranasang ipaglaban ko ang kapakanan ng mga magulang subalit humantong sa nai-wan ako sa ere at nagmistulang ako ang nasasakdal at may reklamo sa lahat. At dahil sa sakit na dulot nito ay kaagad din akong nagbitiw sa aking tungkulin kasabay ang pagli-pat ng mga anak ko at paglisan namin sa aming Barangay. Mahirap man ang mamuhay dito sa bayan ay pinilit kong gumawa ng paraan para mabuhay ng maayos. At mula sa pagtitig ko sa basket na yari sa uway ay nagkaron ako ng ideya na, this is it, ito na marahil ang gusto ng Panginoon, ang linangin ko ang talentong kaloob niya at pagyamanin ito. Nakakatuwa dahil hindi ko inaasahang tatangkilikin ito at salamat kay Ma’am Violy sapagkat tinangkilik niya ang aking mga basket ganundin kay Manager Irene na siyang naging ugat upang mapansin ito at sa lahat ng mga empleyado ng Bangko Kabayan, Rosario Branch. Dahil sa kanila ay naging matatag ako sa kadahilanang noong mga panahong iyon ay sila ang sinandalan ko. Marahil nga “God has a purpose” kaya nangyari ito dahil nasumpun-gan ko ang mga taong totoo at hindi ko iniwan sa ere bagkus ay inakay ako sa magandang bukas na naghihintay para sa akin at sa pamilya ko na siyang dahilan ng aking pagsusumikap. Kaya sa pamilya ko at sa Bangko Kaba-yan ang magiging tagumpay ko ay ihahandog ko.

Page 9 SPORTS & LITERARYSPORTS & LITERARY

Bilang pagsalubong sa Kapistahan ng Bayan ng Ibaan, nagdaos ang munisipyo ng Inter-office volleyball tournament na sinalihan ng mga empleyado ng St. James Academy, Department of Educa-tion, Munisipyo at ng Bangko Kabayan. Ang palaro ay ginanap mula ika-14 hanggang ika-22 ng Disyembre ng nakaraang taon.

Naging maganda ang kampanya ng Bangko Kabayan sa standing na 3 wins at 0 loss sa lalaki at 2 wins at 1 loss sa babae sa pagtata-pos ng elimination round. Nakatikim ng pagkatalo ang mga ba-bae sa kamay ng mga guro ng Public School sa larong 2-1 sets. Sa pagpasok sa final round, ang koponan ng St. James at Munisipyo ang nagharap sa Battle for 3rd sa babae na pinagwagian ng mga empleyado ng Munisipyo. Sa hanay ng mga lalaki naman, wagi ang mga manlalaro ng Munisipyo laban sa mga guro ng Public School. Pagkatapos ng mga laro para sa Battle for 3rd, sinunod agad ang mga laro para sa championship. Unang naglaban ang nangunguna sa standing sa hanay ng babae, ang mga guro ng Public School at pumapangalawa na mga empleyado ng Bangko Kabayan. Taliwas sa una nilang paghaharap, naging madali para sa team Kabayan na matalo ang mga taga- Dep. Ed na tumagal la-mang ng 2 sets. Ito ay bunga ng solidong team work ng mga manlalaro at sa pangunguna ng kanilang head coach na si Mr. Prudence Panopio. Nakadagdag pa sa koponan ang mainit na suporta ng pamilya ng Bangko Kabayan kabilang ang ating Presi-dente na si Atty. Francis Ganzon at ang kanyang may-bahay na si Gng. Tess Ganzon at ang ating Executive Vice President na si Gng. Liza Mercado. At ang pinakatampok at pinakaaabangang laro ng gabing iyon ay ang laban sa pagitan ng St. James at Bangko Kabayan para sa men’s tournament. First set pa lang ng laro ay naging mahigpit na agad ang labanan ng dalawang kopo-nan na pinagwagian ng mga taga-Bangko Kabayan. Ngunit na-kuha ng St. James ang ikalwang set dahil sa kanilang matinding depensa at magagandang plays. Naging mahigpit naman ang laban sa deciding set. Pati ang cheer ng mga manunuod ay tumaas ang level at tumindi ang kaba para sa mga sumusuporta sa magkabi-lang koponan. Sa pagtatapos ng laro, ang mga player ng St. James ang tinanghal na champion. Pagkatapos ng laro ginanap din agad ang awarding para sa Most Valuable Player ng liga. Si Sir Edmar ng St. James ang tinanghal na MVP sa lalaki at si Abigael Panopio ng Bangko Kabayan para sa babae.

Masayang nagdiwang ang mga taga-Bangko dahil napatunayan nila na hindi lamang sa pera at papel sila magagaling. Kaya din nilang mangibabaw sa kahit anumang larangan kasama na ang sports!

Rey Orense Galileo Alday William Bagui

Rymar Gutierrez Ben Guerra

Andrew Mer Pascual Conrad Miranda

Ellaine Yabyabin Maan Ramos Krista Norbe Mean Salazar Milet Miguel

Mary Anne Olan Isabel Montealto Rutchel Arago

Rosenie Cantuba

MUSE: Sheena Roxas COACH: Prudence Panopio

TEAM COORDINATOR: Jeaneth Malijan

KUMPAS Handog sa BK Choir ni: Rymar Gutierrez

Kaysarap balik-balikan mga araw na nagdaan, Para kaylan lamang ng tayo ay nagsimulang magkaki-lanlan Mula sa iba’t-ibang sangay ay ating nasumpungan Ang isang dahilan na ating pagsasamahan.

Madaming nangyari, iba-ibang karanasan Dito napatunayan ang bigkis ng pagkakaibigan, Magandang samahan na pinatibay ng ilang di pag-kakaunawaan Subalit sa huli ay ligayang ating pinagsaluhan.

Sa oras ng pagsasanay may kanya-kanyang dahilan Minsan di malaman kung lahat ba ay may katotohanan, Ang hindi mo pagdalo ay malaking kawalan Sapagkat pagbalik at di natutunan ikaw ay pagtatawanan.

At kung tinig mo ay lubhang may patutunguhan Humanda ka na at sigurado ka isasabak sa solohan Ngunit sa kabilang dako at tinig mo ay may pag-aalinlangan Sana naman ay wag kalakasan dahil kami ay naapektu-han.

Matapos ang lahat ng mga pagsasanay Kaakibat ang sakripisyong lubang di matatawaran Nakahanda ng tayo ay makipagsabayan Sa tugtog ng musika at palakpakang walang humpay

Ngunit di maiwasan sa ating pag-gampan Ilang pangyayaring di lubos malimutan Na kung ating seseryohin ay lubhang maapektuhan Ang pagtatanghal na ating pinaghandaan.

Kaya naman kahit na tayo ay pinagpisan-pisan Sa isang sasakyan ng pangdalawampuan Sa bilang na may higit sa dalawampu tayo ay naisalansan Diba at kaysaya lalo na kung dadatnang bahay animo ay pistahan.

Dito ay napatunayan ang wagas na pagsasamahan Walang iwanan kahit na siksikan at walang upuan Kaya naman ng sumunod na pag-gampan Halos lahat ay lubhang nasiyahan sa ating nasaksihan.

Hindi ba at ganun din sa isang awitin Boses man ay iba-iba at may sariling taginting Isaliw sa kumpas at tiyak na pag-iisahin Sa saliw ng tugtog ito ay aaregluhin.

BOYS’ TEAMElmer Soriano Charlie Tejada Abeth Perez

Neil Marundan Reynaldo Caguitla

Ronnie Reyes

GIRLS’ TEAMAbigael Panopio

Suzette de Chavez Madol Guerra Tina Ganzon

Frances Bathan Morena Baldonado

BK Volleyball Players, Wagi! By: Abigael Panopio

Page 10 PICTURESPICTURES

Page 11 PICTURESPICTURES

Page 12 ADVERTISEMENTSADVERTISEMENTS Page 12 HR CORNERHR CORNER

From left to right, top to bottom: Abigael Panopio Kapitan AO IBB Adrian Montalbo Kapitan AO SJB Beverly Lalamunan Accounting Staff Exec-Christmas Joy de Veyra Roving Staff Exec Conrad Miranda Kapitan AO IBB Leo Alcaraz Kapitan AO CLC Maria Lourdes Rubio DLB 1 IBB Rischel Leynes Teller 1 IBB Romvic Valenzuela Kapitan AO RBB Rose Ann Perez MF Bookkeeper IBB

Compiled by: Neil Marundan

HR Facts and FiguresHR Facts and FiguresBy: Madol Guerra

(1) As of December 31, 2007, we have 12 branches and 9 departments; with 260 employees (to be specific, 201 regular employees, 19 probees, 23 trainees, and 17 contractual).

(2) Koinonia 2 will be on January 26-27, 2008 at Mariapolis Center, Tagaytay City.

(3) Issuance of BK uniform is every 2 years.

And… a friendly reminder to everyone: Always refer to our Employee Handbook!

October October -- DecemberDecemberNEW EMPLOYEESNEW EMPLOYEES

BK Crossword PuzzleBK Crossword PuzzleBy: Laurence Eje

ACROSS 1 Our second “home”, with 21 Across 6 Part of FSG? 12 Vowels 14 Lasso 15 Mass transport vehicle 16 Nero, for one 19 Black gold 20 CI’s partner? 21 See 1 Across 23 Einsteinium symbol 24 Wine: comb. Form 26 WSW opposite 27 ‘70’s hairdo 29 Deadly sin 31 Father of Gaddi (Numbers 13:11) 33 Italian wine region 34 Failures 36 Even 38 Theater section 40 Type of management 42 JFK’s country 44 UK airline of the 1940s 47 ICU homonym? 50 Behold 51 Minute 53 Grip 54 16 Across’s 52 55 Witch town 57 BK BOS 59 Meal 60 Smooth-spoken

Were you able to guess everything? Don’t worry, we’ll send the answer key to your branch email addresses one week after the distribution of this issue!

DOWN 1 Rocky’s surname 2 Eagle’s nest 3 Louse’s egg 4 Former BK-RBB BM 5 Ancient Cyrus 7 Tina Ganzon’s other name 8 Answer option 9 Bear’s residence? 10 Dogwood 11 Hero of Trafalgar 13 Arab country 17 Comply 18 Affirmative votes 21 Thor Heyerdahl’s raft 22 BK branch 25 Cozy abodes 28 BK's “Faith” 30 Vie 32 German actor Kier 35 Propagator 37 Fight for two 38 Puts 39 Lao-tzu follower 41 Former BK-RBB Branch Manager 43 Sulu and Dead 45 Extraterrestial 48 Sonny Reyes’ concerns 49 Gemstone 52 Mayet’s and Suzette’s unit 54 BK cruciverbalist 56 Over acting 58 Greek letter