One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 5 Issue 27 by piaamo6 Western Visayas

Vol 5

Issue 27

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

PIA6‟s Leonard Pineda I shares tips on how to design better multi-media presentations at the 3rd day of the 2015 Consultative Workshop with Health Education and Promotion Officers and Designates of DOH-Region VI held Iloilo Midtown Hotel. (DOH-6 photo)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

July 6 - 12, 2015

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

P495M PAMANA project proposals for N. Samar okayed Aileen N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar, July 9 (PIA) –The PAMANA Project Management Team (PPMT) of the province of Northern Samar unanimously approved a resolution for a proposed PAMANA Infra Project amounting to P495 million in the province for the calendar year 2015 during the joint PPOC and PPMT meeting held Wednesday at the governor‟s conference room. Engr. Romeo Cardenas, PPDO and PPMT Secretariat presented to the body the components of the project which is the construction concreting of the Mondragon-Silvino Lubos provincial road with a project cost estimated at P395 million and the construction of San Miguel Bridge along Lope de Vega-Silvino Lubos road with an estimated project cost of P100 million. This is the fourth phase of the project as it started in 2011 when Northern Samar became a recipient of PAMANA (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan), a national government peace and development framework that aims to respond and strengthen peace building, reconstruction and development of conflict affected

areas. The town of Silvino Lubos in particular obtained the bulk of the fund and the focus of the project as it was considered then an isolated area, located in the tri-boundary of Samar, Northern Samar and Eastern Samar. Since the start of the PAMANA, Silvino Lubos became a recipient of P195.5-M stimulus fund in the last quarter of 2011, P15-M PAMANA-DILG OPAPP fund, on the 2nd quarter of 2012, P100-M DILG-OPAPP PAMANA fund on the 1st quarter of 2013, all for the construction, repair, improvement of road network to Silvino Lubos. The fourth tranche amounting to P395 million as approved by the PPMT chaired by Governor Jose L. Ong Jr. is intended for the construction of Sulong bridge and road stretch located at sitio Sulong to Poblacion, Silvino Lubos. The joint PPOC and PPMT meeting was attended by officials of the province led by Governor Jose L. Ong Jr., OPAPP, and government agencies. (PIA8-Northern Samar)

Also CLICK Here…

P265.1M ESA released to 4 LGUs CENTRAL VISAYAS

Investing in children and their education is the way trail blazed by the city government after generating over P200 million revenues for efficient tax collection and policy reforms. A Grade 1 class at Cogon Elem School hosts US AID mission director Gloria Steele, Embassy adviser John Speaks who came to distribute more books under the Basa Pilipinas Program. (rac/PIA-7/Bohol)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5. Also CLICK Here…

EASTERN VISAYAS

OCD 8 OIC regional director Rey Gozon bares the different activities lined up for the National Disaster Consciousness Month this July during the opening program at Robinsons Place, Tacloban City. (Vino R. Cuayzon/PIA8)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7. Also CLICK Here...

By Carlson B. Alelis NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, July 7 (PIA6) – A total of four local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental already received their Emergency Shelter Assistance (ESA) funding from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-6 this year, while three more LGUs are set to receive assistance in July. DSWD-6 Regional information Officer May Rago-Castillo said the DSWD has already released a total of P 265.1 million this year to four Typhoon Yolanda-affected areas in Negros Occidental, while three more areas are also slated to get financial assistance. The four LGUs that have received ESA are as follows: E.B. Magalona Town with P 45.1 million which covers partially and totally damaged houses of 3, 778 beneficiaries; Manapla Town with P 93.8 million which covers partially and totally damaged houses of 7, 178 beneficiaries; Sagay City with 107.2 million for totally damaged houses of 3, 572 beneficiaries; and Victorias City with 19

million for totally damaged houses of 635 beneficiaries. Cadiz City is slated to get its ESA on July amounting to P 135 million for totally damaged and P 172.6 million for partially damaged houses; Escalante City will receive P 21.7 million for totally damaged houses; and Silay City will get P 5.7 million for totally damaged and P 13 million for partially damaged houses. The cities of Sagay and Escalante will receive P 98.4 million and P39.8 million, respectively, for partially damaged houses if they can complete their requirements, specifically their masterlist, Rago-Castillo said. “As the funds come, we pay the areas,” she said, adding those who have completed the requirements get to receive the fund. She said the downloading for the ESA funds worth P 1.8 billion was delayed because it only started in December 2014, while downloading of ESA funds for Negros Occidental started this year. (JCM/CBA-PIA Negros Occ.)

BOC monitors entry of smuggled rice to Cebu Fayette C. Riñen CEBU, July 8 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Customs (BOC-Cebu) now strengthens its monitoring system against the transport of smuggled rice and fake imported Chinese rice to Cebu ports following the seizure of smuggled rice at Zamboangita port in Negros Oriental since March, this year. Cebu Customs District Collector Ret. Gen. Arnulfo Marcos said that since his assumption in office in March 25, about 9000 cabans of smuggled rice from Malaysia have been apprehended at the Zamboanguita port. Caban is a unit of mass to measure rice before which corresponds to 50 kilograms which in this case, is equivalent to about 450,000 kilograms. “Unfortunately most of the suspected smugglers that have been identified are our Muslim brothers,” said Marcos adding that these smugglers are not based in Cebu but mostly come from Sulu in Mindanao. Marcos likewise bared they are on the lookout of the possible entry of fake imported Chinese rice to Cebu following reports of smuggled fake imported Chinese rice to Philippine shores. “The BOC is on active watch to prevent such

smuggling acts to happen,” he added. “With the help of other agencies like the National Food Authority, we can easily identify fake rice from the real ones,” said Marcos. (mbcn/fcr/PIA7/with reports from Jay-Ileen Engalla, Intern/PIT AB Com)

A customs official examines rice sample during a monitoring activity. (Bureau of Customs File photo)

WESTERN VISAYAS

World Population Day highlights poverty and development By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, July 10 (PIA6)—Population Commission-6 Regional Director Harold Marshall said it is one with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFA) in the observance of World Population Day, to enhance awareness of the public of population issues in relation to poverty and development.

e added that Efforts in ensuring that the dignity, safety and reproductive health of women and girls and of vulnerable youth in emergencies need to be further strengthened. This, as the nations observe World Population Day, Jul 11 this year. “We will be coordinating with the local government units in carrying out advocacy activities which can be done

simultaneously all over the region,” Marshall said. The observance spotlights women, children and young people as among the most vulnerable, forcibly displaced from their homes by conflict and disasters in many parts of the world today. UNFPA Executive Director Babatunde Osotemehin said that when a crisis strikes, humanitarian response must be swift and adaptable to the needs of affected population.

“Women and young people may especially require targeted support and aid must be sustained from the onset of an emergency until recovery,” Osotemehin said in a press release. The UNFPA Director added that the observance of World Population Day 2015 will surface these issues faced by these marginalized sectors and underscore the neeed for more responsive and purposive solutions.(JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

Roxas City teachers beneficiaries of TSEKAP program By Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, July 8 (PIA6) – Hundreds of public school teachers from the Roxas City Division availed of the preventive health care services and diagnostic examination, a basic component of the Tamang Serbisyong Kalusugang Pampamilya (TSEKAP) program of PhilHealth.

apiz PhilHealth Information Officer Mary Jane Amigo disclosed that in the recent launching of the PhilHealth Sabado, ALAGA Ko ang mga Kawani ng DepEd Program in Roxas City, various preventive health care services and diagnostic examinations were catered to more than 400 DepEd personnel, mostly teachers. Amigo explained that TSEKAP program intends to promote preventive aspect of health care, where it assigned every Filipino to its primary care provider and established gate keeping mechanism in the country. Through the collaborative efforts of

PhilHealth, City Health Office and Department of Education, the conduct of the TSEKAP Program covered four successive Saturdays starting June 27. She said that in said schedules, the DepEd personnel including their legal dependents will be consulted and provided with necessary preventive health services, diagnostic examinations and primary drugs and medicines based on their actual medical conditions. The DepEd has been the pilot recipient and become a priority of the PhilHealth in the formal sector because of their exposure to the school children, Amigo said, adding that utmost concern of

teacher‟s health status must be given prime concern. She said that TSEKAP program is presently innovated in members belonging to the poor segment, Overseas Filipino Workers, organized groups and the DepEd. On the other hand, PhilHealth Regional Vice President Lourdes Diocson said that the result of this innovation will significantly be studied. Diocson said that the program impact will likewise be assessed and evaluated for input in the drive for universal coverage of the program to all PhilHealth members across the country. (JCM/JBG/PIA6-Capiz)

Programs for PWDs given more teeth Vicente W. Villavert SAN JOSE, Antique, July 9 (PIA6) - - The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) official during his visit to Antique said that the government has strengthened the implementation of plans, programs, and activities geared towards the development of persons with disabilities through Proclamation No.688.

r. Andres Rhuel Ravelo of the NCDA said that Proc No. 688 issued by President Benigno S. Aquino III declares the period of 2013-2022 as the Philippine Decade of „Make the Right Real‟ for persons with disabilities in support of the 3rd Asian and Pacific decade of persons with disabilities. The declaration also supports the Incheon Strategy to “Make the Right Real” for Persons with Disabilities in Asia and the Pacific, earlier declared during a high level intergovernmental meeting on the final review of the Asian and Pacific

Decade of Persons with Disabilities (2003-2012) held at Incheon, Korea on November 2012. Ravelo said in a PIA interview that through the said proclamation, the NCDA is hereby directed to lead all disability-related efforts by formulating and issuing a comprehensive National Plan of Action for the Decade which translates the objectives of Batas Pambansa Blg. 344, Republic Acts Nos. 7277, 9442, 10070, and 10524, and other disability-related laws, programs and policies into concrete programs, activities and projects.

Ravelo said that priority programs for the persons with disabilities (PWDs) must be focused on employment, accessibility, social protection and the conduct of more advocacies. Ravelo was in San Jose de Buenavista to facilitate the two-day orientation seminar to increase the level of awareness of the PWD leaders, partner government agencies and stakeholders on the various programs aimed at improving the lot of the PWDs.(JCM/VWV/PIA Antique)

WESTERN VISAYAS

Aklan hosts agrarian reform summit By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, July 8 (PIA6) -- Aklan is hosting an agrarian reform summit today, July 10, spearheaded by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

ccording to Ma. Teresa C. Valencia, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II, DAR-Aklan is holding the activity in observance of the 27th Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP)and the 6th year of CARPER. The activity, according to Valencia, which will be held at the ABL Sports and Cultural Center at the Capitol Site, Kalibo, is being undertaken as part of the inclusive partnership of all duty bearers working for the farmers in Aklan. “The CARP anniversary will highlight the gains our program reached in its 27 years of dedicated service to the Aklanon stakeholders. It is an opportune time to convene the land owners, agrarian reform beneficiaries, representatives of BARC and

CARPER implementers and update them on the latest programs and projects for our partners”, Valencia said in her letter of invitation to DAR partners regarding the event. Some 150 multi-sectoral representatives of agrarian reform are expected to attend the activity, said Valencia. For the activity, DAR also plans to hold a farmers‟ market to showcase their products as well as those of other agricultural players the agency is planning to invite so that these groups can also display their products to enhance agricultural productivity. DAR-Aklan will also be recognizing Outstanding Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries, their organizations and

CARP implementers who have untiringly pursued the noble goals of the program, the DAR-Aklan PARO said. Meanwhile, to show the Aklan farmers that DAR cares for them, the agency has sought the help of the Department of Health (DOH) to have the the farmers vaccinated with pneumonia vaccines at the venue during the activity. “This is because our Aklan farmers are aging already and we need to take care of them as they are the ones exposed to the elements while producing food for us”, said Teresita Grace Quimpo, DAR-Aklan Information Officer during the recent meeting of the Aklan Public Information Officers Association (APIOA) here. (JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)

WVCST conversion to ISAT-U good for tourism By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, July 7 (PIA6) --- The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Western Visayas said that the conversion of a state college in Iloilo to a state university will bring positive impact on the tourism industry in the region.

n a media release, DOT-6 Regional Director Atty. Helen Catalbas said upgrading of Western Visayas College of Science and Technology (WVCST) into Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) proves that Western Visayas is among the regions that promotes excellent quality education. "This conversion highlights the City of Iloilo as the center of academe and higher education in Western Visayas as well as strengthen the education system of the region resulting to globally competitive

and skilled individuals”, she said. The House of the Representatives Committee on Higher Education, along with the leadership of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), formally confirmed the awarding of distinction to ISAT University, formerly known as WVCST, during a Congressional Committee hearing on June 8, 2015. The said conversion was made possible through Congressman Jerry P. Treñas who authored Republic Act No. 10595. ISAT University has campuses in

the municipalities of Barotac Nuevo, Dumangas, Leon, and Miagao, all located in Iloilo province. “Educational tourism is one of the tourism products of Iloilo being marketed by DOT Region 6,” she said. DOT-6 said the agency continues to strengthen its partnership with local government units (LGUs) and other national agencies to boost tourism in Western Visayas through convergence projects, trainings and sponsored events. (LTP/DOT/PIA-Iloilo)

Guimaras' livelihood projects get P18.5M ILOILO CITY, July 9 (PIA6) - - An P18.5 – million fund is ready for release to finance proposed livelihood projects by eight groups from four municipalities in Guimaras province.

epartment of Agriculture 6 Information Officer James Earl Ogatis said the fund is available under the small livelihood projects (SLP) of the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) of the department. Recently, Ogatis said proponents attended a business planning writeshop designed to capacitate them in technical writing and with necessary skills in

preparing business plan for the priority enterprise for funding. Also, discussed during the three-day activity spearheaded by the Regional Project Coordinating Office (RPCO) 6 I-REAP are the importance of quality results and proper monitoring and evaluation of the sub-project; SLP guidelines; business plan outline; social and environmental safeguard (SES) guidelines; and procurement system process.

Ogatis said it is expected that through the writeshop, proponents can now come up with their business plans for their proposed seaweeds production and marketing projects for technical review and endorsement for the approval of the Regional Project Advisory Board. The fund will be equally divided among eight implementers. (JCM/LAF/ PIA-Iloilo)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

Government pushes sanitation, hygiene in schools Ferliza C. Contratista CEBU CITY, July 6 (PIA) -- Government is pushing for health, sanitary and hygiene among schools. In partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd-7), Department of Health (DOH-7) and non government organization Islamic Relief Worldwide, the Water, Sanitation and Health (WASH) program is being pushed in the Province of Cebu.

ccording to Dr. Berna Ysulan, DepEd7 OIC health and nutrition head, there are two units under WASH program, the Nutrition Unit which focuses on Health, Sanitary and Hygiene and then the Physical Facilities Units on school facilities. “With Sanitary and Hygiene on WASH Program, we are already implementing the essential health care program, there is lesson integration and teachers manual being produced by our NGO partner given to the teachers,” Ysulan said. She said that DepEd passed Deped Order No. 56, on the immediate construction of hand

washing facilities in schools and the implementation of the health program Health Care Program has three components which include daily hand washing, daily tooth brushing and biannual de-worming. In Physical Facilities which involve school buildings, the DepEd program is joined by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to provide a toilet for every classroom. “The DepEd already conducted a campaign that every classroom should have a toilet but there are places that has no access to water,” Ysulan said.

The toilets can only be used when there are visitors while the children, she said, go out and look for other places they can use. Philippine Approach to Total Sanitation (PHATS) already conducted a school monitoring for the whole Region 7, and there are some schools that already constructed hand washing facilities. DPWH is already doing also its own report and recommendation to solve the water supply and toilet problems among schools. (mbcn/fcc/ PIA7-Cebu with reports from Mariel Torres PIT intern)

Missing ‗security threads‘ end up in counterfeit bills Rey Anthony H. Chiu BOHOL, July 6 (PIA) - - Over the mysterious disappearance of the security thread feature of genuine banknotes, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) now thinks every missing security thread turns into an asset for counterfeiters.

he BSP has noticed that many of the small denomination bank notes have lost a security feature in the security thread, a plastic strip with black prints imbedded through the bill, and it took the government authorities a long time to figure out why. Their baffling question is now answered as BSP finally pieced together a counterfeiting syndicate that uses security threads from smaller denominations to embellish fake money, in an effort to secure a feature that a legal tender has to sport, according to Atty. Leonides Sumbi of the BSP Visayas. The stripping of security threads have been noted and that banknotes without security threads can be deemed without value, Hazel Arante, BSP information officer added. Stripped security threads from the old P5,

P10 and P20 are now being used by counterfeiters to embellish bigger denominations, especially P1000, Sumbi hinted adding that some money appraisers only look for the security thread being a visible indicator of real money. It's always huge denominations that are copied in fake, Sumbi hinted. The technology and printing nearest to the security features of real money costs a sizable amount so that chances are, it is the bigger denominations that are counterfeited, Sumbi noted. BSP also shared that other than the security thread people must also check the watermarks, security fibers, iridescent band, embossed prints, serial number, see through marks, concealed value, optically variable ink, micro printing and fluorescent features in determining genuine

banknotes. BSP also noted that the new generation currency uses abaca fiber and the paper texture and embossed prints can be felt. Atty Sumbi added that other than feeling for the banknote, everyone must check for the watermarks, security fibers and threads, fine line prints and see-through marks. "While by tilting the paper, the concealed value would be revealed, while changing of colors of the windowed security thread and optically variable ink and optically variable device patch changes are some of the markers to look for," Sumbi said. These are real indicators and consumers must not hurry in checking the money they are getting, Atty Sumbi warned. (mbcn/rahc/ PIA7-Bohol)

PIA, Secular Franciscans to hold ‗Ride to Save Mother Earth‘ mountain bike fest Rizalie Calibo SIQUIJOR, July 8 (PIA) - - In its continuing Climate Change advocacy and in a timely response to Pope Francis‘ Eco-Encyclical, or more formally known as Encyclical ‗On Care for Our Common Home‘, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Siquijor Infocen, the Secular Franciscan Order (SFO)-Siquijor Region and the Our Lady of Mt Carmel Parish of Enrique Villanueva, is holding the first-ever Mountain Bike Festival in the province dubbed ―Ride to Save Mother Earth‖ on July 11-12 at Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor.

he activity will not only highlight the town‟s fiesta celebration in honor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, but will also serve as an awareness and a wakeup call to help us understand the destruction we continue to inflict the environment and our fellowmen. Over 100 racers headed by professional downhill category titlist and this year‟s champion for the downhill race for the master‟s division, Wendell Barba, are coming to Siquijor province to join the competition while local bikers and enthusiasts are also expected to join the event. During the festival, bikers will be racing through the Balolong-Manan-ao downhill trails of Enrique Villanueva town to give them critical

awareness of how the uplands and people need help particularly with the town's depleting water supply due to environmental degradation. The event also hopes to solicit some possible actions to bring the “dying” uplands back to life, at the same time help boost our province‟s tourism industry. The Holy Father, in his encyclical has challenged us to “heed the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor” saying that it is "only by radically reshaping our relationships with God, with our neighbors and with the natural world, can we hope to tackle the threats facing our planet today.” Science, the Pope said is the best tool by

which we can listen to the cry of the earth, while dialogue and education are the two keys that can “help us to escape the spiral of self-destruction which currently engulfs us." The biking competition is open to all bikers and biking enthusiasts nationwide for the downhill and enduro categories. Downhill will have four subcategories namely: Beginner, Intermediate, Open and Expert, while Enduro will have Curious, Idols, Open and 40 above categories. Registration fee is P500 for all categories and P200 for local fun riders. Last day of registration is on July 10, 2015. For more details, please contact Wendell Barba at 09154637795. (mbcn/rac/PIA7-Siquijor)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

DOH-7 urges public to donate blood, help save lives Fayette C. Riñen CEBU, July 8 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH-7) urged the public to donate blood voluntarily and helped save lives as the country joins in the celebration of July as National Blood Donors Month.

OH-7 Medical Officer IV Dr. Dino Caing said the beneficiaries of donated blood include patients suffering from blood loss, leukemia, hemophilia, mothers giving birth with complications, major trauma and transplant surgery. “We appeal to everybody, especially the local government units to conduct and participate in blood donation programs because the need for blood is universal. All of us are potential users of blood in the long run” said Caing adding that “when we share blood, we give love.” Caing said only those 16 to 60 years old can donate blood as those under 16 needs parental consent. They however, must pass the qualifications of being potential blood donors, said

Caing. According to Caing, criteria for becoming potential blood donors are weight of 50 kilos (110 lbs.) and above, pulse rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute with regular rhythm and normal blood pressure and hemoglobin levels. Individuals suffering from the following conditions are not allowed to donate blood --- cancer, cardiac disease, severe lung disease, Hepatitis B and C, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and high risk occupation such as prostitution, unexplained weight loss of more than five kg. in over six months and chronic alcoholism. The DOH-7 medical officer said there are also temporary conditions that may disallow a person to donate blood such as during pregnancy,

acute fever, recent alcoholic intake, ear or body piercing and tattooing, and recent surgery. Meanwhile, Susan Orpilla, national nutrition officer of the National Nutrition Council pointed out the importance of maintaining a desirable weight to achieve a healthy body. “In order to donate healthy blood, the donor must have a healthy body,” said Orpilla. Orpilla said overweight individuals are not safe blood donors because most likely, they have cardiovascular diseases. July is National Blood Donors Month as Caing said why blood donation is given emphasis on this month although bloodletting activities should be done whole year round. (mbcn/fcr/ PIA7/with reports from Mariel Grabillo, Intern/ PIT)

Tagbilaran finds P202M reasons to invest in education Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, July 9 (PIA) -- Tagbilaran City to invest more in education in youth and sports development after the city generated some P202M revenues from its tax campaign reforms, collection and its enterprises in 2014-2015.

agbilaran City mayor John Geesnel Yap said during his State of the City Address (SOCA) that he was inspired by a scholar, Ladielyn Fuderanan that was one of the country's top 10 criminology students to increase an allocation of P4M to the city scholarship funds in 2015-2016. The mayor's announcement drew some applause and Yap added that the City government pays for the scholarship of 606 college students and has produced 215 graduates ever since. Yap said, his administration would increase the city's Special Education funds for infrastructure to P7.7 million, again to another round of applause from appreciative Tagbilaranons who celebrated their 49th Charter Day on the day of the SOCA. The mayor also bared that the City Local School Board, through Resolution No. 004 has

apportioned the City Public Schools an infrastructure budget of P44,163,963.00. Hit and crippled by the 2013 earthquake, the city's appropriated funds go for the construction of 16 new additional classrooms, a school gymnasium, computer and food processing lab, a welding shop, library and sports center lab as well as covered courts equipping the city's public secondary high schools as it steps into the K12 program, this is learned. Over the city's continuously attracting migrants and their families, the mayor have partnered with various Public-Private-Partnership initiatives to have 43 new classrooms all over the city's districts. With 2014 Brigada Eskwela, 2ND place regional finish for Booy Elementary School and a national award for Mansasa National High School, the city is now stretching out for more partnerships with education stakeholders to fill in

the gaps which the government may not be able to quickly fill in. Over the years too, the city has provided regular nutritional supplemental feeding in its 34 day care centers, to which the Administration plans to install air-conditioning units. Having distinguished itself with an over-all champion in Boholympics 2015, the city has also upped its Special Education Fund for Sports and Development to P3.5 M, seeing the good performance of city athletes. At the Batang Pinoy Qualifying leg in Kalibo Aklan, Tagbilaran City contingent ranked 5th out of the 145 competing LGUs in the entire Visayas Region. At the 2015 CVIRAA, the city athletes also came home with the standing as 6th place in the region reaping 10 golds, 22 silvers, and 25 bronze medals. (mbcn/rahc/PIA7-Bohol)

DTI opens Go Negosyo Center in Dumaguete City BY JENNIFER C. TILOS DUMAGUETE CITY, July 9 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will open its Go Negosyo Center on July 16 at 10 a.m. at the DTI Provincial Office, Dumaguete City to boost the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Negros Oriental.

TI provincial director said Senator Bam Aquino, the author of the Go Negosyo Act is supposed to grace the launching of the center, but due to pressing commitments in Manila, the senator may send a representative from his office. However, Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NOCCI) president Ed Du said in a SMEDC meeting recently, Senator Cynthia Villar is expected to attend the opening of the Negosyo Center as she is the

keynote speaker on the 24th Visayas Area Business Conference at 3:00 p.m. on the same day. Together with Sen. Villar are some officials of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PCCI) lead by its president Ambassador AlfredoYao in the launching. The Negosyo Center, which in pursuant to Section 3 of the Republic Act 10644 or the Go Negosyo Act, will provide business registration assistance, business advisory

services, business information, as well as monitoring and evaluation of business processes for MSMEs. The law, according to Fortunato also promotes job generation, entrepreneurship and inclusive growth through the development of MSMEs. The Negosyo Centers shall be under the supersivion of the MSMED Council which through the DTI provincial office, perform oversight functions. (mbcn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

EASTERN VISAYAS

‗Dare to dream,‘ says PWD Entrepreneur TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, July 9 (PIA) – Tacloban Multi-Purpose Cooperative President Jose Juby Alday shares his success story and that of his organization on their struggle against low self-esteem and financial freedom.

lday aspired of establishing an organization that would inspire and empower the PWD‟s in Tacloban towards improving their welfare and well-being. He sought for the help of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) Tacloban in searching for PWD‟s who are interested not only in more financial opportunities but in uplifting their morale. The CSWDO referred him to a group of PWD‟s in San Jose Tacloban whose members were working for the National Federation of Cooperative for PWD. He was emotionally moved by the nature of work of his fellow people on performing carpentry and welding works despite graduated degrees from tertiary education. He uttered” I was driven by the desire to enhance the well-being of my colleagues, considering that they have completed their college degrees. They also deserve the same employment opportunities, similar to normal people.”

By organizing them into cooperative, Alday enabled them to “do something that they cannot do for their individual selves alone, and at the same time, help the development of the economy.” Alday confessed that on their first few years, he found difficulty running their business especially that the cooperative members had low self-esteem, heartaches and emotional trauma due to their disabilities. Their problems were aggravated by the onslaught of typhoon Yolanda as their investments turned to a considerable loss. However, this gradually changed as TAPDICO sought for the livelihood enhancement assistance of DOLE RO8 amounting to P1million for the procurement of tools and equipment for the wooden chair and tables production project in order to improve their value chain production as well as to reduce their operational debts. One TAPDICO member, Myline Dublin expressed her deepest gratitude towards DOLE for helping her free from any bondage of low esteem and providing her the chance to live a

normal life. She emphasized, “before, I even hid under the table whenever guests come to our house. Now, I am no longer ashamed to face other people,” Presently, TAPDICO is engaged in a P4M job contract with Deped in the production of wooden chairs and tables for classrooms in region 8. The expansion of the K to 12 curriculum provided a way to increase their production volume and intensify workers‟ benefits. Alday still envisions for their cooperative to be a cooperative of PWD‟s that gives quality services for social and economic upliftment for the general welfare of its members. In the next years, he plans to expand their business, as well as, increase the number of members in the cooperatives. He encourages other PWDs to join them in their fight for freedom and equality towards a brighter future. He likewise urges everyone to dare to dream, and that, “any form of physical disability will never be a hindrance in reaching dreams.” She said. (DOLE-8/PIA-8)

Quake drill highlights NDCM in Samar CATBALOGAN CITY, SAMAR, July 8(PIA) - An earthquake drill to be held simultaneously in five schools in Catbalogan City will be part of the activities to mark National Disaster Consciousness Month.

rom the meeting held Monday, Disaster Risk Reduction Officer Eliot Lopez Jr said that it is important to involve school children in earthquake drills so that they will learn how to act and seek safer grounds. Radio and Rescue Groups like ACCESS5, REACT, KABALIKAT, CITY RESCUE, GUARDIANS, the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army and the police will join forces to

man the simultaneous quake drills, to facilitate and give instructions. The City DRRMC will also hold a motorcade on July 13, 2015 to invite awareness among the public the importance of being prepared in times of calamities and other disaster. The barangay officials and those involved in the quake drills will try to declog waterways and

clean spaces in the city to ensure that continuous flow of floodwaters during heavy rains so it will not be clogged by plastic and non-biodegradable wastes. City Mayor Stephany Uy-Tan is behind all these activities to mark Disaster Consciousness Month with the theme: "Pamilya at Pamayanang Handa, Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bansa." (nbq/ PIA 8-Samar with reports from Jun Arceno)

ESSU gets P11.5M grant from PCAARRD BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, July 9 (PIA) - The Eastern Samar University in the city is a recipient of P11.5 million research and development grant from the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Aquatic Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) for the conservation, improvement and profitable utilization of the Philippine Native Pig.

SSU and the Nueva Viscaya State University (NVSU) are the implementing agencies in this 3-part native pig R & D funded project of PCAARRD namely: Project 1-Native Pig Breeding and Production as Sustainable Livelihood Option in calamity-prone areas (Dr. F. Afable (ESSU), et al.); Project 2-Developing a Local Resource-based Free Range Production Management Systems for Improved Climate-resilient native pigs (Dr. E Campoto (ESSU), et al.); and Project 3-Value Chain and Policy Studies in Support of Native Pig Production in Eastern Visayas (Dr. Dumalo of NVSU). The overall project leader is Dr. Arnold Monleon of the Marinduque State College. The 5-year project aims to, among others, document the phenotypic and genetic characteristic of native pigs in region 8, develop a practical and profitable native pig range

management protocols and determine capacities and capabilities of native pig raisers and preferences of consumers. It is expected that this project will result in an increased number of native pig breeding population with improved growth and reproductive performance and meat quality aside from producing and publishing scientific papers on free range production and management. The team of researchers for this project was tapped by PCAARRD in order to address the high poverty incidence in region 8 due to lack of sustainable livelihood options and the adverse impacts of natural resources. It is said that being endemic in the area, native pigs are resilient to extreme climactic conditions and resistant to disease, hence, it fits to the capacities and capabilities of small rural farmers particularly in Eastern Visayas.

ESSU President Dr. Edmundo Campoto has earmarked P6.5 million as its counterpart for the establishment and development of the Pig Research Center-the first of its kind in the region. An inception meeting will be held on July 21-22 at the ESSU Leaders‟ Convention Center, Borongan City along with the program team meeting to commence the implementation of the component projects in Eastern Visayas. Meanwhile, ESSU is still accepting research papers for presentation until July 15 for its 2nd International Conference on Integrative Disaster Risk Reduction and Management on September 3-5 at the ESSU Multi-Purpose Hall, Borongan City. Interested parties are advised to log on to www.essu.edu.ph or call/text Dr. Felix Afable, Dean of the Graduate School at 09077770674. (ESSU/PIA-8)

EASTERN VISAYAS

Southern Leyte‘s MEF MLGUs, BLGUs awarded Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, July 9 (PIA) -- In order to recognize the contribution of the local government units and barangay LGUs in protecting the environment, Southern Leyte honored the Most Environment-Friendly throughout the province, in an awarding ceremony held recently during the Environment Summit 2015 at the Capitol Coliseum here.

he evaluating team led by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Management Office is composed of the DENR-PENRO, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) , Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Diocesan Social Action Center (DSAC) and the Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) awarded the winners based on two categories, Category A for 1st-3rd municipalities and Maasin City while Category B belongs to 4th-6th class municipalities, including the barangay level. The winner for Category A was awarded to the municipality of Hinunangan and the top 3 for Category B went to St. Bernard, Macrohon and

Libagon, while Category B for the barangay level, Barangay Bangkas B of Hinunangan got the Most environment-Friendly Barangay and the top 3 Category B were given to the Barangays of Sta. Cruz, Macrohon; Tubod, Silago and Bahay, Liloan. The awardees received plaques of recognition and cash prizes distributed by Gov. Roger G. Mercado, Cong. Damian G. Mercado, DENR-8 Regional Director Leonardo Sibbaluca, among other guests who participated the 2nd Environment Summit of the province. The environment summit organizers also recognized the 1st municipality in the province that implemented the Comprehensive Land Use

Plan, the municipality of Bontoc. “The municipality pioneered their initiative and successfully implemented the land use plan,” it cited. Meanwhile, Gov. Mercado in his opening message said that the province is in the right track when it comes to environment, saying that “the environment summit show how we care for our environment from the land, the seas and the forests which start form the community with their active participation in this kind of endeavor.” “The ones who truly love God, loves and care for the environment because God created it,” Gov. Mercado said. (ajc/rgc/PIA 8, SoLeyte)

Rice sample passes palatability test - NFA Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran, July 9 (PIA) – The appearance of molds with distinct brownish and yellowish colors made the provincial quality assurance officer of the National Food Authority (NFA) here in Biliran province to conclude that the rice samples taken from some rice traders, this town, passed the palatability test.

team of NFA-Biliran personnel composed of Leoncio C.Abad , provincial operations officer, Clemente P. Bruza ,provincial quality assurance officer and Geralyn Blancaflor, enforcement and investigation officer, conducted a random inspection on some rice traders in Biliran province in July 1. The conduct of random inspection to some rice traders within the area of coverage of NFA-Biliran is in line with the directive of NFA administrator Renan B. Dalisay to intensify market inspection on rice traders over entry of alleged fake rice in the country. The alleged suspicious SECHIN Sinandomeng premium white rice without the supplier‟s name

and address printed on the sack itself taken from one of the rice traders selling rice here in Naval during the conduct of random inspection on July 1, passed the palatability test, Bruza stated in his report to Lorna Sison-Ordiz, NFA-Biliran provincial manager. “I observed the appearance of molds with distinct colour like brownish, yellowish and some spotted black in color” Bruza said in his report on the result of the palatability test conducted after three days from date of inspection. However, Bruza, who is a senior grains operations officer of NFA-Biliran, disclosed that the black markings on the alleged suspicious rice subject to palatability test is highly recommended

for further chemical analysis to ensure that there is no other chemicals that might be detrimental to human health. “Fake rice will not be spoiled after four days, will not stick to the hands hands after it is cooked, liquid substance will come out after squeezing it and worst it will cause stomach discomfort after eating”, he informed in an interview during the conduct of the random inspection. For her part, Ordiz informed the Biliranons that the province is now fake rice-free based on the latest random inspection of stores selling rice in public markets conducted by NFA-Biliran in the province of Biliran. # (fj/PIA 8 Biliran)

Samar PNAO: Aim for ideal body weight NINFA ILUMINADA B. QUIRANTE CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, July 9 (PIA) – " Aim for an ideal body weight through a healthy lifestyle." This is being pushed as an advocacy message while Samar celebrates National Nutrition Month this July.

amar Provincial Nutrition Action Officer Alva Gadin announced this when she guested at PIA‟s Huruhimangraw ha radio program this morning. Gadin said that being overweight and obese is an increasing health issue confronting this generation due to less physical activity. The PNAO who is still fit and sprightly at 50 plus recommends observing proper food intake through the Pinggang Pinoy where an ideal plate has vegetables which is ¾ of the plate with one serving of fruit, one cup of rice and two servings of fish or meat.

Divina Piscos, a DOH representative also offered nuggets of nutrition for a healthy lifestyle like, go smoke free, go slow to tagay, go sustansya and go sigla! “It is important to instill awareness among our people on the role of nutrition and physical activity in the prevention of overweight and obesity,” said Gadin. Piscos said that with obesity comes non-communicable diseases like hypertension, risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes. She added that prevention and control of

non-communicable diseases depends on healthier diets and more physical activity. The nutrition committee will try to weigh Capitol employees, take their body mass index (BMI) , assesses and given dietary counseling. In December, the committee will check on their decrease of weight as advised. “More of the biggest loser, thing,” said Gadin adding that Governor Sharee Ann Tan may give a prize to the biggest loser. This year‟s nutrition month theme is : Tamang Timbang Iwasto, sa Tamang Nutrisyon at Ehersisyo! (nbq/PIA 8-Samar)

One Visayas e-newsletter is published weekly by the Visayas Regional Cluster of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) comprising Region 6, 7 and 8. Its main editorial office is located at PIA Region 6, Iloilo City. One Visayas e-newsletter is part of the online news and information dissemination services of PIA and is powered by www.issuu.com. For inquiries and suggestions, call Tel. Nos. (033) 3378719/3377301 or e-mail piaamo6@yahoo.com.

Ms. Minerva BC Newman Regional Director, PIA 7

Editorial Consultants Atty. Ma. Janet C. Mesa, Ph. D. Regional Director, PIA6

Ms. Alicia E. Nicart Regional Director, PIA8

Managing Editor Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. Contributors All PIA Information Officers of Regions 6, 7 & 8 Production and Layout Edson J. BaĂąares Lynnor C. Regalado Regional Offices: PIA 6, 2/F RC Building, Rizal St., Iloilo City, Iloilo 5000, Tel. Nos. (033) 337-8719/3377301/509-0993, Fax No. (033) 337-8719/509-0993, e-mail: r6_pia@yahoo.com/ piaamo6@yahoo.com PIA 7, Room 304, 3/F Machay Bldg., Garardo Avenue, Cebu City, Cebu 6000, Telefax No. (032) 232-4062/232-4126, e-mail: pia7_cebu@yahoo.com.ph/r7_pia@yahoo.com PIA 8, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x;s Park Compound, Sen. Enage St., Tacloban City, Leyte 6500, Tel. No. (053) 325-5124, Telefax No. (053) 321-2029, e-mail: pia_ev@yahoo.com/r8_pia@yahoo.com