my son..my new business partner

finally,  here’s the fruit of the countless sleepless lights moonlighting as a “freelance do-it-all- worker” writing and editing articles for an island magazine, scribbling editorial cartoons for a business weekly newspaper, making indesign layouts for a bank’s  annual report, designing tarpaulins, brochures, logo and doing  graphics for a webpages me and my partners did.

don’t ask how i manage to do these all aside from working as an ATC and having a happy family. basta, for sure, i still got time to read my books and spend time to unwind..

this new partner doesn’t look fancy but i love this…

an airborne disease

published on may o9 2nd week issue (edgeDAVAO)

election fever is worse than swineFUL..i mean swine flu that sent chills to the whole world.  it is an airborne disease since every now and we hear political (most of ’em are absurd sounding) jinggles played on the airwaves. worse, political mimes giving faces to the “political jinggles” are published on the national and local newspapers.

the registration for new voters just commenced and evidently, there was a positive turnout of young voters..new registrants.  Lets hope these young voters’ ideals won’t get blighted with  the plethora of  political gimmicks launched by aspirants who will move heaven and earth just to secure seats in the government.

keep off the beaches

MONKEY business (edgeDAVAO)

i always see the long stretch of  (now not so pristine) beaches adorn the shoreline of a neighboring island every time i work for eight hours (sometimes straight 16hours) in the tower.  but… pathetic. to enjoy those beaches come with a great price. words of advice from a friend who used to live on that island? IF YOU WANT TO ENJOY  AND SWIM FOR FREE, SA PANTALAN ka na lang daw maligo. uhhhh… (my cartoons can also be viewed at edgedavao.net)

Pacquiao mania invades the airspace

(May 02, 2009 Davao Control Tower)I was sitting quietly on alpha position when the hotline connecting the flight service station and the control tower rang. The communicator on duty asked for the landing time of chopper flight with callsign PACQUIAO FLIGHT.

Unbelievable, I said and just laughed off the query. I’ve heard many calllsigns used by the airforce flights… hornet flight, eagle flight, falcon flight, voltes flight, batman flight and even vampire flight. I was looking forward for them to use wolverine flight, spirit flight, aang flight… transformer flight. I never expect them to use PACQUIAO flight for a fact that they haven’t even used GLORIA FLIGHT OR MIKE FLIGHT. Hahahaha. (Blast!!)

But a fellow Air Traffic Controller nudged me and confirmed there was indeed a PACQUIAO FLIGHT written in the operations log. It departed Davao Airport at 0543zulu or 1:43 o’clock in the afternoon, local time. Geez, Pacquiao was not only a national hero…he had become a national anthem invading the air with flair.

I wanted to believe these  Airforce guys were inspired byManny Pacquiao. His humble beginning being an ordinary bread maker and at times, a field expert (he used to plow cornfields) and his ascent to this great heights where he is now is awesomely inspiring. He epitomizes a warrior fighting a war with art. He unites people who bellow in unison as nation every time he throws a punch to his face of  his star struck opponent.  Bruised and battered physically, he always manages to emerge the victor… a champ whose firm and intact resolve contaminates every Filipino all over the world.

These Airforce guys could surely relate to this used to be middle class hero (now he is filthy rich worth billions of dollars sonof nanay dionisia!). They, soldiers, also fight wars with great artistry. Scratched and battered by insurgency, terrorism, and media blitz and cudgels, but at the end of every day’s fight, the surviving fighters always manage to emerge silently FEELING victorious (feeling lang ha…)determine to live to fight again another day.

At five o’clock in the afternoon with the sweltering temperature at 32 degrees Celsius and dewpoint at 27, moderate haze blanketed the aerodrome. I scanned the airspace looking and feeling for the signs of choppers from Cotabato.  The two tiny dots from the west were approaching the airport. Here comes the underpaid battle wearied unsung heroes.

“Davao Tower, Pacquiao flight” came the voice of the pilots.

“Pacqioa flight, this is Hatton Tower, go ahead” was my reply.

I hope that somehow, my nonstandard phraseology reply lightened up the pilots’ mood. I hinted suppressed laughters as the pilot reported his position while skillfully guiding and gliding the chopper intercepting the final approach for direct landing to TOG helipad.

“Hatton tower, Pacquiao Flight on the ground now… terminating flight”, the MG chopper pilot reported.

“Roger, I copy that Pacquiao Flight… goodluck sa fight bukas”..was my reply. Blast… pacquiao mania is giving me the creeps.

As I write this piece, I was interrupted by the “get here” ringtone of my mobile phone.  A friend texted me that  Pacquiao will floor Hatton before round four ends. I have the feeling she is damn right.

mr. julio tesoro

I first saw this man way back in the late 80’s when I was still an editor of a state university student paper. Our staff usually spent sleepless nights in the printing press rushing the editing and finalizing our paper to beat the deadline. He was the man whom we saw inside Tesoro’s printing office silently checking on us tinkering and punishing their expensive mac computers’ keyboards trying to make crash courses learning pagemaker.

He would stop for a second or two to look… then would be gone inside one of the building’s rooms. We later learned he lived there pala. Then he would be back to check again, a routine he regularly did before he going to bed. Maybe  wanted to make sure we were not making their typing office messy…or deleting files,   (I remember one time when we accidentally deleted a whole tabloid’s page contents and we all went “amnesiac” the moment the mad typist asked who deleted the files.) But I wanted to think that even if he never knew our names, he was more concern about us than the macs every time he did those hourly checks.

I never knew his name until I heard from a friend who works in the printing told me that he passed away. It was then I saw his picture in a local daily. In the picture, he never grew old. I was certain he was the man I saw inside the printing press almost three decades ago.

I really wanted to drop by on his wake. I wanted to silently say how grateful I was for his silence (which I thought was patience) during his routine checks. I wanted to say I learned to love and enjoy the world of “printing” because of the freedom he gave us during those press works.

It took me almost three decades to say how grateful I was for those “silence” but better late than never saying it at all.  I sincerely say thank you for your patience and silence.  I learned many thins form them. It was nice knowing you, sir…

Davao Air Traffic Service getting “wired”

To establish the first ever CAAP E-LIBRARY

When our Air Traffic Control Chief received a memorandum from the Central Office Manila that the establishment of an Air Traffic Service library in every facility is one of the basic requirements of the just instituted Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, most of us took the news as a chance to make a difference especially in providing service to our fellow aviation workers.

It’s a chance to share the resources that we have with the airlines, general aviation, agricultural, military and student pilots whom we extend air traffic service to. It’s a chance to put up a center where we can build not only better camaraderie with the airport users but at the same time provide interested individuals to have a glimpse of what this least appreciated Air Traffic Control is all about.

When finally established, this will be the first ever E-library created in the history of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

Why the chance to share resources

Many aviation accidents involving agricultural and military aircraft happened during the last quarter of 2008. Lives were lost, properties were damaged and series methodical investigations were conducted to determine the causes of the mishaps. It was during that time when we met agri-pilot Capt. Bong Vergara of Airwolf Aviation Corporation. A sprayer aircraft (AGCAT) was torched to ashes by unidentified armed men in an airstrip in Panabo and they were forced to relocate five of their expensive sprayer aircraft servicing large banana plantations in Davao del Norte for safekeeping to PAAC hangar here at Davao Int’l Airport. When I relayed to him our plans and objectives in putting up an E-Library, he welcomed the idea since they would be needing references for the agri-aviation local procedures that their group’s been drafting since last year.

A friend pilot of an OV-10 military fighter plane was also pleased about the plan. “We will try to share what we have…local procedures for military aircraft for the e-library.” The OV10 pilot said.

Capt. Mackie Francisco, a Piper Navaho pilot takes this project as a trailblazing step in Philippine aviation and hopes this will be supported by the proper authorities. “Come to think of it, everybody benefits from safe and efficient air transportation; whether you fly or not.” He commented.”I am proud that concerned individuals from my home airport, Davao International, are spearheading this drive. I certainly hope that one day ignorance and complacency in the skies will be eliminated through this information initiative.” He added.

True.

After all, Air Traffic Controllers, Pilots, Communicators, ground crew and everyone in the aviation industry have one common objective. That is, the safety of the flying public.

Why E-library

Basically, the Library will be furnished with useful aviation related materials such as Aeronautical Information Publications AIP), International Civil Aviation Organizations (ICAO) annexes, general and local procedures files, training manual and procedures, aviation reading materials, topographical maps, collection of aviation related and aircraft accident films. Some of these are already being compiled, ready for use the moment the library officially opens.

But, we want our library to be different, multifunctional, useful, and with internet connection. It will not only serve as proficiency and “recurrency” training center for rated and non-rated ATCs. Air Traffic Controllers are required to undergo an annual “recurrency program” or refresher trainings for better mastery of air traffic control skills and procedures. Most importantly, it will also become a center of information for Air Traffic Controllers, pilots (general aviation, military and agricultural pilots) and other airline personnel to research, surf, and secure copies of available general and local procedures, and other aviation related materials. Pilots and other airport users can have access to the library provided they ask permission in advance for their schedule of use.

City Government’s support

Four months ago, we have already decided on the perfect place for the E-library. But as each week went by, we felt more disappointed every time we looked at the room devoid of the essential equipment. Waste of precious time.

The-E-library needs to have at least two sets of computers, a printer, a projector (for proficiency training and film showing for the library users) and an internet connection. No problem with manpower. We are overflowing with that. We have submitted a request letter and program of work to the concerned airport officers but as expected, our agency can never allocate funds for this. Desperately, we resorted to plan B.

Our most sincere gratitude for the support of Davao City Vice-Mayor Sarah Z. Duterte for the new set of computer with printer and Councilor Pilar C. Braga for persistently helping us lobby our proposal to the City government. Likewise, CAAP Consultant Mr. Ramon Garcia who is a licensed pilot himself, also promised to help us find sponsors for another set of computer and other equipment.

Like Vice Mayor Sarah Duterte and Councilor Pilar Braga, it is noteworthy to mention that Mr. Sonny also believes this noble project is worthy of support.

(published in SUNSTARDAVAO January 25,2009 issue page 10)

doggone runway intruders

the ramp where the intruders usually romp around…

(January 12,Monday. DIA) While taxiing for departure runway 05, the Dash 8 pilot of PAL774 reported seeing three dogs frolicking on the runway. Obviously, those dogs were very familiar with the airport and its operations since they didn’t appear to be scared of the taxiing aircraft.

Since it was my shift (the supposed to be supervisor on duty was on birthday leave), I called the roving guard to report the presence of the dogs. It was the Middle guard instead who promptly reported he was at the site where the dogs intelligently exited through the perimeter fence of the airport. (Unfortunately for the owner of the dogs, his pets lead the CAAP guard on duty to his kennel…err..house.)

The guard reported that the owner of the dogs was mad (galit…di baliw) and even dared him to shoot hist pests…pests,I mean. “Magkita na lang ta sa barangay kung posilon ninyo along iro.” The owner allegedly said, even berating the guard. Uhhhh… scary.

The report was, as usual, relayed to the Chief of the Airport police. (huhooom)

The presence of the f*&&!@$#**/? dogs (take note, chief mike gulf) has been a perennial problem of the Davao International Airport. There were even instances when we instructed the Airbus pilots  to line up and wait on the runway until the **&%$)@3!. dogs were shoed away. Such incident was disadvantageous for the airline companies… it spells more revenue losses. Those big birds were gurgling aviation gas by tons and delays created by stray dogs were utterly absurd.

The Airport management is well aware of such predicament. But the question is, how come its never been solved until now. awww-awoooo…

Doggone jokes

Joke 1

Pilot: uuhh…tower… I see dogs on the runway.

ATC: Roger, Captain, unfortunately those dogs have no radio. Negative contact with the dogs.

Joke 2

Owner of the dog: (angry and was waiving a gun) I will sue the Civil Aviation Authority for what happened to my dog.I will shoot the guard who abused my dog!!

Airport Manager: Pre… peace.. calm down. What happened to your dog?

Owner of the dog: Yesterday my dog came home shaken and very scared. Kurog-kurog sa kahadlok ug nerbyos ang akong iro.” I”ve spent thousands for its psychiatric checkup.

Airport Manager:Ha? Uy… Tell me in details what happened?

Owner of the dog: Your guard shot my dog… close range. Fortunately,your guard missed the mark and my dog narrowly escaped death. “Syempre, Ikaw ba daw pusilon ug close range, tutukan ug baril sa ulo, diba ka manerbyos!!(waaaaa….wa kaigo! Wa kaigo!)

Joke 3

Scene: Airport police in hot pursuit of a stray dog on the runway. The pursuer approached the dog stealthily, knelt on the grassy plain and took his aim with a shot gun. He cocked his gun, took a deep breath and poised his finger firmly, touching the trigger. He exhaled and inhaled and held his breath for the most accurate aim. The dog sensing human carbon dioxide exhaled sprinted towards the perimeter fence. Then a loud crack was heard from the shotgun of the shooter.

From the Control tower, the ATCs bellowed with dismay that the dog was able to speed away leaving the shooter by meters.

However the shooter assured the Tower guys through the radio that he got the dog alright.

Naiigo! Naigo! Natiil!natiil!”

Really. He must be one hell of a shooter. Nice of him to give the dog a head start and aimed for its foot .

Nice shot.

Nice try.

Nice joke.

e-library for all

This is the proposed site of the Air Traffic Service Library.

It is located inside the Air Traffic Control building.  Its purpose is very noble. To become the Center of information not only for the air traffic controllers but for other interested aviation workers as well.

The transition of the Air Transportation Office into Civil Aviation Authority is turtle pace and to get the essential equipment  for this project from our agency is next to impossible. We’ve made proposal to our airport officials and all we got are policiticized responses. “Walang budget… walang budget”. Yeah, sure..we are pretty much aware of that.

We resorted to Plan B… which was to go outside the realm of this agency so we could equip the ATS E-library. We approached a known lady Davao City Councilor and a down to earth ( a real good man) CAAP consultant who’s a licensed Pilot  himself and presented our case and honestly told them all we need were the necessary equipment instead…not  cash. These people were (and always are) very supportive of this cause. They are lobbying our cause to some high ranking officials of the city and the House of Representatives who also believe in this project. (We also welcome support from friends in the aviation. But please, no cash involved. All we need are equipment. )As to the manpower to maintain the library and its official website, we have plenty of that.

I know these people are humble and not publicity conscious. As a sign of respect, I will still preserve their identities for now.

please scroll down further to browse about the details of the Davao ATS e-library which i posted late last december…

Airport security compromised…

(December 20, DIA)The searing temperature of 30 degrees did not stop some airport personnel and civilians to rush and flock around a LET410 turboprop aircraft. Security guards, airport police and some Airport Security Group personnel hurriedly left their posts to join the fray, lining up for something that maybe doled out from the passengers of the SUVs approaching the parking aircraft.

Form the view up here, we saw those people flocked like ants about to feast on sugar coated bread. It was understandable though. Christmas Day was just breathe away and whatever bonus anybody received from generous and moneyed (government official pa) individuals was a always a welcome relief.

A government official was about to board the aircraft. This government official (indi naman illonggo pero perte gid ka-galante hehehe)was known to give “Christmas gifts” to anybody he met. Last year, our janitor was richer by one thousand pesos courtesy of this “Santa Claus”.

Question:

With outposts left unmanned and the city in “code red” , what will then happen to the airport in the event terrorists will launch attacks?

ZestAir 775 maiden flight to Davao

(December 22, DIA)The weather was good, visibility at 10 kilometers, ground temperature at 28 degrees, altimeter setting at 1007.9 millibars, wind calm and runway 05 in use, ZEST AIR 775 maiden flight was established on final approach at 10 DME when its pilot initiated contact with Davao Control Tower . After bring given clearance to land runway 05, the Xian MA-60 turboprops safely landed Davao at exactly 6:30(or 1030UTC) in the evening.

While entering Alpha Three for the ramp, I asked the pilot if he’s familiar with the Davao international Airport layout. However, since the pilot reported he had on hand a chart of DIA, I reckon it’s no longer necessary to give him progressive taxi instructions. The aircraft was assigned to parking bay number 7 and the pilot also confirmed he intended to follow the ground martial.

ZestAir, whose radiotelephony was “spirit”, was a relatively small aircraft. Passengers numbering to more than 20 were observed disembarking from the aircraft. ZestAir pilot reported the aircraft could accommodate 56 passengers.

ZestAir’s dubbed as ”Asia’s most refreshing airline ” was the former Asian Spirit airline company with a fleet of De Havilland Dash 7 aircraft that used to provide alternative domestic airline services to other satellite airports in the country. It also had a short-lived international destination serving a Manila-Davao-Palau (vice-versa) route. At the height of its promising(?) stay in the airline industry, some of its pilots became our friends who sometimes came to Davao Control Control tower for a morning “chika”.

ZestAir’s maiden flight to Davao was supposed to be on December 20. To the dismay of some Dabawenyos who happened to buy tickets on said schedule, its maiden flight landed on DIA’s runway two days later instead.

Zesto’s …errr…ZestAir’s presence is another positive development in our country’s dynamic airline industry. Amidst the “airfare war” among the major airline companies, it is poised (daw!)to deliver competitive services and hopefully, cheaper airfares, that the Filipino flying public direly need.

Hmm… let’s just see what this newcomer could offer to the Philippine travelers. Let’s also hope that unlike the “former” Asian Spirirt, ZestAir stays longer in the industry. With its plan to acquire a 220 seater Airbus 320, who knows it could even duplicate what Cebu Pacific has achieved in becoming another formidable local carrier. Sabi pa nila, the more, the merrier. Yehey… (that’s the spirit!)

P.S

ZestAir774 was airborne Davao at 7:31(1131 UTC) in the evening.