One Visayas vol 2 issue 14

Vol 2

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

COUNTDOWN TO EARTH HOUR 2012. Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog (3rd from left) and Congressman Jerry Trenas lead the countdown and ceremonial switch-off of lights for Earth Hour 2012 at SM City Iloilo, March 31.

Joining them are Vice Mayor Jose Espinosa III, Councilors Ely Estante and Dave Jamora, PIA 6 Director Ma. Janet Mesa, RISE's Engr. Aurora Alerta Lim and SM City Iloilo Mall Manager Girlie Liboon. (LAF/PIA6)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

Also CLICK Here…

CENTRAL VISAYAS

April 2 - 8, 2012

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Issue 14

LGUs to craft agricultural development roadmap

By Rachelle M. Nessia

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UMAGUETE CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- The provincial government and each of the municipalities in Negros Oriental will soon have its own roadmap for agricultural development following a recent workshop held by the Department of Agriculture in Region 7 for agricultural technologists (ATs).

The workshop taught the technologists coming from the towns' local government units (LGUs) here how to craft an agricultural roadmap that will identify the rice, corn, and high-value crops, livestock and other agricultural data such as production yield in their areas.

“The rationale behind this municipal road map is to consolidate all agricultural development plan initiatives of the municipalities into our provincial commodity program road map,” said Nittz Bangay, information officer of the Provincial Agricultural Office here.

The activity will likewise enhance the ATs’ knowledge on the agricultural data of their respective areas.

Bangay said the road map will also show an area’s commodity self-sufficiency, profitability and productivity in the agricultural sector.

“It will also provide an opportunity for the LGUs to implement interventions, strategies and funding mechanisms to attain their production goals,” she added. (RMN/PIA Negros Oriental)

(L-R seated): DAR-7 Regional Director Rodolfo Inson, NORSU President Dr. Henry Sojor, Cong. Pryde Henry Teves and PARO Stephen Leonidas sign the memorandum of agreement for the Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS), a project that aims to increase farm productivity and income of the agrarian reform beneficiaries in Negros Oriental. (PIA/DAR PHOTO)

Philippines is Earth Hour ‘Hero Country’

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Cebu City Vice Mayor Joy Augustus Young is flanked by Cebu North Representative Cutie del Mar and WWF -Philippines Climate Change Director Atty. Gia Ibay as the three lead the nationwide simultaneous one-hour power switch-off ceremonies in Cebu during the recent Earth Hour observance last March 31 at the Plaza Independencia together with Davao City and Makati City. (AS/FCR/PIA-Cebu)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

Also CLICK Here…

EASTERN VISAYAS

JCI Candahug Liberation leads participants in releasing sky lanterns after the parade around the city in observance of Earth Hour at the Balyuan Amphitheater, Tacloban City, March 31. Many individuals and organizations participated in the said activity compared to last year. (PIA-8/ Vino R. Cuayzon)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Also CLICK Here...

ACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 30 (PIA) -The Philippines has been declared by the Earth Hour organizers as a “Hero Country”, said Atty. Gia Ibay, National Director of Earth Hour Philippines and World Wildlife Fund for Nature Philippines head for Climate Change and Energy Program.

Atty. Ibay said that that the Philippines has been rewarded as such for topping Earth Hour's global town and city participation levels for three straight years, from 2009 – 2011.

Atty. Ibay informed that Earth Hour began as a single-city initiative in 2007 when from 7:30 to 8:30 in the evening of March 31, 2.2 million people switched off their lights to celebrate Earth Hour in Sydney,

Australia. The power saved during the 60-minute switch-off was equivalent to removing 48,613 cars off Sydney roads for an hour.

Earth Hour became a global movement in 2008.

The Philippines was the first Southeast Asian nation to pledge full support.

Total power savings in 2008 amounted to 80MWh.In 2009, 611megawatt hours were saved equivalent to a temporary shutdown of a dozen coal-fired power plants.

In 2010, 1,076 Philippine towns and cities participated and 1,661 in 2011, making the country a three-time Earth Hour champion and an official Earth Hour “Hero Country”. (EOPT - PIA 8)

Ilonggos urged to take steps to protect environment, conserve energy

By Lilibeth A. French

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LOILO CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- Ilonggos were urged to take extra steps to push common efforts towards conservation of energy and preservation of the environment.

Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog told Ilonggos Saturday that by switching off their lights for one hour they will not only save electricity but also support efforts to protect the environment against climate change during the ceremonial countdown and switch-off of lights held at SM City Iloilo in line with the Earth Hour 2012 observance here.

Mabilog said the city government is also doing its share along this line as the new city hall building is the first government “green” building in the country that uses solar assisted air conditioning units that provide cooling system in the city hall.

“We must get to work to put in place developmental plans to transform our environment into promising and great economic opportunities,” said Mabilog.

On the other hand, congressman Jerry P. Trenas, who also joined in the switch-off ceremony, said the sudden change in climate being experienced in the

country is a call to everyone to do his or her own contribution to mitigate the effects of climate change.

“We can do our little share in ensuring that the earth that we are going to leave to our children and grandchildren will be a better place for all of them,” said Trenas as he acknowledged the support and participation of Ilonggos in the Earth Hour since it started here in this city and now participated in by many cities in the country.

Engr. Randy Pastolero of the Panay Electric Cooperative (PECO) said in a radio interview that they have recorded a 29.9-megawatt drop in energy consumption during the one-hour switch-off this year.

PECO is the sole distributor of power in this city.

Aside from Mabilog and Trenas, the Earth Hour event at SM City was also attended by Vice Mayor Jose Espinosa III, Councilors Ely Estante and Dave Jamora, Department of Environment and Natural Resources 6–Environmental Management Bureau Director Jonathan Bulos, PIA 6 Director Ma. Janet Mesa, Responsible Ilonggo for Sustainable Energy’s Engr. Aurora Alerta Lim and SM City Iloilo Mall Manager Girlie Liboon, among others. (JCM/LAF-PIA6)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

Ilonggo women getting more empowered vs. climate change - OCD IT’S MORE FUN IN THE RUINS IN TALISAY, NEG. OCCIDENTAL

By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, April 1 (PIA) -- Ilonggo women are getting more empowered and able to cope with climate change by becoming more informed and educated on it, according to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

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a. Aletha A. Nogra, OCD-6 training head, said because of the new law on disaster risk reduction and management, the women sectors have been part of planning and implementing disaster preparedness programs in their localities.

Nogra, who was guest during the weekly cable TV program “Hangpanay” anchored by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), said RA 10121 has included total care for vulnerable sectors, including women, who have specific needs in times of disasters.

Women now have asserted their special needs, especially when they find themselves in evacuation centers, when they are pregnant, lactating or having monthly periods. “Women are now active in participating during planning for

disasters,” Nogra said. She said they are able to determine their needs, identify their roles before, during and after disasters, because they are familiar with their communities, its hazards and coping abilities.

Mariana, 45 years old, and a village chief in a remote area in Iloilo, said they realized they are not to be considered victims only of disasters, because usually they end up “helpless” especially in evacuation centers during disasters.

OCD-6 said that with the disaster risk reduction and management law, evacuation centers are not just shelters to house victims of disaster but a place that can help those affected to recover better.

“We need to design a place where normal activities can go on, especially for

women whose role of housekeeping extends to the evacuation centers, as they assume roles of cleaning, cooking, and taking care of the children,” Nogra said.

On the other hand, Nogra said that part of the training government is doing on disaster preparedness is also encouraging women to organize themselves and be part of the on-going education on climate change.

“Not only women, but girls and children, who should be educated right in their classrooms,” Nogra said.

“This is because our disaster risk reduction and management agencies and the LGUs have become more aware of gender-based principles applied to climate change,” she said. (JCM/ESS/PIA -Iloilo)

Bacolod City task force inspects gas stations anew

By Easter Anne D. Doza BACOLOD CITY, April 2 (PIA6) - - The task force that checks on the accuracy of the calibration of pumping machines of gasoline stations here conducted again another round of surprise inspections among gasoline stations in the city to check on the calibration of their dispensing pumps.

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he group headed by Bacolod City Vice Mayor Jude Thaddeus Sayson inspected six more gas stations and unlike the first round, these stations were found to be in order.

However, three of the six stations were not able to present their Mayor’s Permit for their Liquefied Petroleum Gas retailing outlet.

The inspection covered six stations – Total Station at Bangga Cory; Caltex Oil Rig Gas Service Station, City Heights; Ember Shell Gas Station, City Heights; Shell Lacson-Hernaez Ext.; Reall Gas

Service Station, corner Lacson-Magsaysay Sts.; and Caltex Libertad Service Station or NIVRAM Marketing.

Sayson and Councilor Al Victor Espino were accompanied during the inspection by representatives from the Bureau of Fire Protection, Office of the Building Officer, Public Information Office, Zoning, Department of Trade and Industry, Permits and Licensing Division, City Engineers Office, City Treasurer’s Office.

The transport sector was represented by the Director-General of the United

Negros Drivers and Operators Center Jesse Ortega and the President of the Federation of Bacolod City’s Drivers Association Elizabeth Katalbas.

Media entities were also able to cover the inspection with correspondents from ABS-CBN, GMA and DYRL. Both Sayson and Espino underscored the vital importance of the inspection for the protection of consumers especially now that fuel prices are continuously increasing.*(EAD/JCM-PIA6/CMO Negros Occidental)

Aklan opens 'holding area' for visitors at jetty port

By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan (PIA6) -- A “holding area” at the Caticlan Jetty Port designed for the comfort of tourists and visitors going to Boracay Island has been opened recently by the Provincial Government of Aklan.

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he holding area, according to Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, is fully air-conditioned with complete toilet facilities which could be used by tourists while waiting for pump boats to take them to the island.

Governor Marquez emphasized the use of the holding area is free.

“The holding area was especially conceptualized by the province to avoid a repeat of the situation on December 25 and 26 last year when hundreds of

passengers were stranded at night time and had no place to stay due to unavailability of pumpboats to take them to Boracay Island,” Marquez told the public during his regular Governor’s Report to the People program aired over a local radio station here.

Marquez also explained that only 5 pumpboats can ferry passengers at a time with an average of 165 to 175 passengers.

However, when passengers disembark from a RORO vessel, there will be more

passengers to accommodate, thus the need for a comfortable waiting or holding area.

The holding area can hold at least 250 persons.

Waiting passengers can also use the entrance area of the terminal which is also air conditioned.

Aklan is presently bracing for more visitors to Boracay Island especially in view of the Lenten season. (JSC/VGV-PIA 6 Aklan)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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OFWs attend briefing on financial literacy, migration IT’S MORE FUN IN ROCA ENCANTADA, GUIMARAS

By Pilar S. Mabaquiao

SAN JOSE, Antique, April 2 (PIA6) -- Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) and their families in Antique recently attended a one-day seminar on financial literacy and addressing barriers to reintegration conducted by the Antique Youth and Migrant Center (AYMC). uring the seminar, participants As what has been underscored in the were from various OFW communities and discussed various economic and summit of OFWs in Antique sometime in organizations in Antique. social issues on migration February, OFWs are major players in our The speakers were from the including assessment of their financial economy much more in their contribution inter-agency group trained by Atikha, a condition and setting their goals towards in creating jobs in the countryside if their non-government organization from Laguna stability. money is saved for investments, she c o m m i s s i o n e d b y I n t e r n a t i o n a l Juliana Cepe, provincial planning and added.

Organization for Migration to provide development coordinator and overseer of Likewise, Cepe explained, they need technical assistance to the center. the AYMC, in an interview, said that to have a well-planned reintegration It will be recalled that AYMC was AYMC hopes to provide OFWs with a program so that their earnings can go a launched in early March at the Antique venue where they can discuss issues long way after their retirement.

Development Center supported by IOM affecting them and their families.

Participants of the workshop were under the Youth Employment and This activity, Cepe said, has given mostly members of the Dao Overseas Migration Program funded by the Spanish them the opportunity to lay out their Workers Association who have been Government. (JCM/PSM-PIA6 Antique) financial plan, translating family goals into actively collaborating with AYMC on concrete savings and investment program. various programs for migration. Others

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NFA releases 350 bags of rice for Capiz flood victims

By Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, April 3 (PIA6) -- The National Food Authority has released a total of 350 bags of rice for the relief operation of the provincial government of Capiz for its residents who were victims of flooding.

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apiz NFA Information Officer Rose Andalecio disclosed that as of April 2, they were able to release the 250 bags of rice to the province here and another 100 bags for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) as augmentation assistance of the national government to the province.

Andalecio said that the 300 bags of government rice were released last week at the height of the flood, while the remaining 50 bags for the DSWD were released April 2. She also assured Capiceños that despite the recent flood

affecting many barangays in Capiz, the NFA still has sufficient supply of rice for public consumption.

She said that aside from the government stock, the households, wholesalers and retailers as well as millers have also their rice stocks.

During the emergency meeting of the Capiz Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council last March 26, Gov. Victor Tanco directed the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office to immediately provide relief assistance to residents who were affected by flood to augment the relief assistance given by their

respective barangays and municipal governments.

In particular, the PDRRMC authorized the use of the P5-million quick response fund for the purchase of food, water and medicines for the flood-affected residents.

On the other hand, report from the Capiz PDRRMC Action Office showed that as of April 2, the flood affected barangays totaled 171 involving 14,199 families or 66,228 individuals. (JCM/JBG/PIA6-Capiz)

Government vehicles not for private use - Ombudsman ILOILO CITY, April 2 (PIA6) -- Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas Pelagio S. Apostol reminded all government officials and employees not to use their service vehicles in their out-of-town family vacations for the Holy Week and on April 9, 2012 (Araw ng Kagitingan), which is also declared a holiday or face sanctions.

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hose found to have utilized the vehicles for personal purposes and/or have no duly issued trip tickets to record the trips may be considered liable under the following laws: R.A. 3019, R.A. 6713, Revised Administrative Code of the Philippines, Commission on Audit (COA) Circulars, sections of the Government Accounting and Auditing Manual, and other executive issuances.

The Ombudsman-Visayas created an Inter-Agency Task Force on O-Plan Red Plate with partner agencies, the Commission on Audit (COA), Civil

Service Commission (CSC), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

The convergence of efforts of the Inter-Agency Task Force has resulted to positive responses from the concerned agencies that now use Trip Tickets for their travels. Their vehicles also bear the office name or logo and “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY” signs.

The Ombudsman-Regional Office here is appealing to the public to be vigilant and report any incidence of violation of the aforesaid laws to the Inter

-Agency Task-Force numbers 09178898662 (Ombudsman); 09155391957 (COA); 09215241312 (LTO); 09165412152 or 09087869948 (CSC); 09999955072 or 09173233809 (PNP); and 09209459384 (PIA).

To report, please send the plate number; color and type of the vehicle; place and time where the vehicle is spotted and picture (if available).

Records show that the government is losing at least P9-million weekly on government vehicles being used for unofficial purposes nationwide. (OMB6/ JSC/JCM-PIA6)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

20 Central Visayan students vie for TOSP

By Jennifer C. Tilos

IT’S MORE FUN IN TAOIST TEMPLE, CEBU

DUMAGUETE CITY, April 3 (PIA) -- The Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) Region 7 has released the 20 finalists from universities and colleges in Central Visayas who will vie for this year’s search for the TOSP.

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he finalists taking up Math, Information and Technology and Sciences include Mark Anthony and Anthena Gene Duran, both from Silliman University; Joshua Eleazar Domen of St. Paul University-Dumaguete (SPUD); and Ronnell Padillo of Cebu Institute of Technology University; for nursing and medicine students, Felix Mosqueda of Negros Oriental State University; Angelica Dwayne Young Ricardo of SPUD; Ma. Shiril Armero, Southwestern University; and Ramon Matthew Basabe of Cebu Doctors University.

Wilma Elizabeth Rada of St. Theresa's College; Michael Angelo Abarcar, University of Southern Philippines-Foundation, both in business

and accountancy; for engineering and maritime, Raymond Sesican, University of San Jose-Recoletos; Darwin Neil Morano of University of Cebu - Main Campus and Irish Mae Anoos, Cebu Institute of Technology University.

Completing the 20 students are Nesie Fe Binatero of Bohol Wisdom School; Kenneth Regene Blasco of Mater Dei College; Leslie Ann Estaniel, University of Cebu; Jurene Renoblas of University of the Visayas; Regina Clarina Elmaco of SPUD; and Simplicio Gadugdug of Holy Name University; Ionell Jay Terogo, University of San Jose-Recoletos, all taking up in humanities and teacher education.

These 20 students who will represent their respective institutions will undergo a

transformation program from April 28 to May 2 in Dumaguete City, regional representative Rolando Villamero Jr., of TOSP7 said.

The formation week will be under a series of interviews and activities as part of the evaluation of the deserving students.

The TOSP is an annual search which recognizes the best and the brightest students in the provinces of Region VII who have excelled in academics, leadership, and social responsibility. (MBCN/JCT-PIA7 Negros Oriental)

Bohol inks two-year deal with PhilHealth

By Hazel F. Gloria CEBU CITY, April 1 (PIA) -- The Local Government of Bohol agreed to continue sponsoring the PhilHealth premiums of some 32,564 poor families for a two-year coverage ending on December 31, 2013.

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espite concerns regarding increases in PhilHealth premiums, Bohol governor Edgardo Chatto signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on March 27, 2012 with PhilHealth Region 7 Vice President William Chavez at the Governor’s Mansion in Tagbilaran City.

PhilHealth recently adjusted its contribution rate which includes the annual premium of sponsored members.

The Sponsored Program premium is now pegged at P2,400 per year effective January 1, 2012.

However, LGU-sponsored members whose coverage expired on December 31, 2011 were given an automatic

three-month extension of coverage ending on March 31, 2012.

As an additional incentive, PhilHealth is offering another three-month extension, ending on June 30, 2012 to the coverage of existing members whose LGUs are willing to renew their sponsorship until the end of 2013 and commits to do so before July 2012.

PhilHealth also offers a 50-percent discount on the premium to LGUs who will renew, add or enroll sponsored members for the first time before July 2012.

For renewal of sponsorship, LGUs will only be paying P1,800 per family for a two-year coverage instead of P2,400 per

year, on account of the six months total extension granted to existing enrollees.

For new or additional sponsorships, LGUs will only be paying P1,200 per family per year.

All these incentives are made available to LGUs that will commit to enroll poor families for CY 2012-2013 before the end of this semester.

Budgetary constraints notwithstanding, Governor Chatto understood the value of providing health insurance coverage for his constituents. (mbcn/hfg/PIA-7 & Philhealth)

More funds pour to Siquijor hospitals

By Rizalie A. Calibo SIQUIJOR, April 1 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) allocated this year around P25 million for the upgrading of two hospitals in the province.

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overnor Orlando Fua Jr. said that out of the allocation, P20 million will be used for the construction of a new wing for the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) in Siquijor, Siquijor while P5 million will be for the improvement of Lazi Medicare in Lazi, Siquijor.

On top of this, Fua said, the two hospitals also got the biggest slice in the provinces's annual budget. This year alone, P67,559,000 went to the IPHO while P9,166,065 went to the Medicare, he said.

Our total investment for the health sector is P76,725,065, he added.

Fua said the provincial government is also allocating 24 percent of its 2011 total income of P307,300,833.50 for health care and services for the province.

"This is more than 4 percent from the province’s 20 percent development fund allocation of P61,460,166.67," he said.

In the past two years, the province has also allocated some P4 million for the construction of six private rooms and renovation of the charity wards, he

reported.

Some P4 million have also been allocated for hospital medicines every year and not less than P3 million for charity patients from the congressional fund.

More health services and medical assistance are also expected for the province as he reported that the Philippine-American Medical Association of Georgia (PAMAG) has scheduled a medical mission this year. (MBCN/RACPIA 7, Siquijor)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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Women's summit tackles climate change

By Jennifer C. Tilos IT’S MORE FUN IN CHOCOLATE HILLS, BOHOL

DUMAGUETE CITY, Apr. 1 (PIA) -- Over a hundred women leaders and advocates gathered for the Women’s Summit at Silliman University recently. he gathering of women was in The Gender Studies Center (GSC) of city’s disaster response during the observance of International Day Silliman University, headed by Typhoon Sendong and related how the for Women and National Coordinator Prof. Phoebe Tan, barangays were not prepared for such a Women’s Month that focused on the role coordinated the said conference. natural calamity. of women in disaster risk reduction.

Tan said this year’s Women's Summit He later discussed the importance of Women leaders from the 30 was intended to “help women adapt to disaster preparedness and the role of barangays in Dumaguete City and climate change since they are the ones women as agents of change, capitalizing on members of the Local Council for Women first affected by disasters and calamities, their capabilities in addressing climate (LCW) and the City Social Welfare and given their nature and traditional roles as change.

Development Office attended the homemakers and caretakers of family and Participants also had “role playing” whole-day seminar-workshop which children.” activities. They were later requested to centered on the theme: “Weathering Association of Barangay Captains in act out scenarios and their works were Climate Change: Governance and Dumaguete City chairman Albert evaluated by some members of the LCW. Accountability, Everyone’s Responsibility”. Aquino presented an assessment on the (mbcn/JCT/PIA-Negros Oriental)

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45 LGUs ink deal for anti-poverty program to benefit 210,000

By Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, April 2 (PIA) -- A total of 45 local government units (LGUs) in Central Visayas recently inked a deal of partnership for the implementation of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). onsequently, more than 148,000 Officer, Alicia Lagarde, in lieu of Governor Bogo, and Danao while the municipalities beneficiary households have been Roel Degamo. are Carcar, Naga, Alcantara, Argao, added to the existing 61,700, Pantawid Pamilya's implementation Dalaguete, Moalboal, Ronda, and bringing the total head count for Region 7 has also reached Tagbilaran City in Bohol Santander. Other towns include to almost 210,000 4Ps beneficiaries. with 17 more municipalities namely Aloguinsan, Balamban, Pinamungahan, The onset of Set 5 implementation in Balilihan, Calape, Catigbian, Loon, Clarin, Medellin, Santa Fe, Carmen, Pilar, San Negros Oriental added five towns namely: San Isidro, Sagbayan, San Miguel, Talibon Francisco, and Tudela as reported.

Bacong, Dauin, Valencia, Dumaguete, and covering Districts 1 and 2.

The MOA signing, held in the grand Tanjay City with 6,580 households.

For District 3, it included the towns ballroom of Sarossa International Hotel, Information Officer Aileen Lariba of of Anda, Batuan, Candijay, Duero, was graced by DSWD’s Undersecretary DSWD7 said the initial gains of the Guindulman, Lila, Sierra Bullones, and Mateo Montano. program in Negros Oriental's earlier Valencia for a total of 17,836 households, Montano, in his message, said: “We implementation are likely to continue as said Lariba. will work together in breaking the the mayors of each of these areas Cebu province has the most number inter-generational cycle of poverty by personally graced the activity accepting of additional areas with 41,119 households sending these children to school and the program with the full support of the from District 1-5 covering four cities and providing them access to health services.". provincial government through the 17 municipalities.

(RMN/JCT-PIA 7, Negros Oriental) presence of Provincial Social Welfare The cities include Talisay, Toledo,

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‘Brydes whale’ returns to Bohol seas BOHOL, April 1(PIA) –- Just in time for their migration, a Brydes Whale has been sighted calmly feeding off Pamilacan island in Baclayon town, a group of marine biologists and researchers reported recently. cientifically called balaenoptera Dr. Alessandro Ponzo of Physalus said were spotted during the two days of brydei, brydes (pronounced the Brydes Wales were hot target for surveying”, the staunch marine mammal broo-dess) whales are large Pamilacan whalers until the mid-1990s. protection advocate said in his email. rorquals- whales with expandable, pleated Whaler fishermen allegedly landed a big What caused the most excitement throats that feed primarily on plankton one in 1993. among the researchers, the marine and small fish.

Physalus works for Bohol in a Large biologist said, was their sighting of the According to a w e b s i t e Marine Vertebrates Project, based in Jagna Brydes whale on two days. www.marinebio.org, Brydes Whales were town, some 53 kilometers southeast of A local ordinance recently passed in earlier reported as possibly extinct in Tagbilaran.

Baclayon posts the minimum distance to Bohol seas due to pressure in whale Dr. Ponzo, a marine biologist bared observe these large animals at 100 meters. hunting in the late 1980s. that on their survey undertaken to verify The researchers were also able to They are frequently found in areas of whale sharks in Pamilacan, ideal sighting take photos of the dorsal fin for high fish abundance, along with seabirds, conditions prevailed which led them to identification purposes. seals, sharks, and other cetaceans. identify the abundant cetaceans in the While this data collection was an Brydes whales have also been area. exciting first step, much more information classified “data deficient.” It means there is “Spinner dolphins, bottlenose is needed to better understand and practically inadequate information to dolphins, melon-headed whales, Fraser's protect Bryde’s whales and other properly assess the extinct status of the dolphins, the most common cetaceans, cetaceans in the Bohol Sea, he said. second smallest tropical whales. which comprised whales and dolphins, (mbcn/rahc/PIA-Bohol)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Leyte to showcase its rich culture at Aliwan 2012

IT’S MORE FUN IN THE LEYTE LANDING MEMORIAL, LEYTE

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 2 (PIA) -- Leyte is set to showcase the richness of its culture by sending two of its best festivals to participate in the Aliwan Festival on April 14 at the CCP complex. overnor Carlos Jericho L. Petilla Leyte has already made a mark in cultural The highlight of this year’s Aliwan said the contingents of the activities that whenever Leyte is Fiesta 2012 event is the street dance Lingganay Festival of Alangalang mentioned, people would always associate competition with a total of 21 contingents town and Buyugan Festival of the town of the province with award-winning festivals. from all over the country. These festivals Abuyog have been given financial Lingganay Festival was proclaimed often combine religion, tradition, and assistance of P1 million each, by the champion of the Sinulog Festival 2012 in culture in amazing displays of color and provincial government of Leyte as they Cebu in January 2012. It is also the craftsmanship. compete in the country’s biggest gathering r e i g n i n g champion in the The different cultural groups actually of best of the best festivals.

Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival of the compete in parades that combine street Petilla said he is ready to provide province of Leyte. dancing with giant floats that can only be support to the contingents of these Buyugan Festival, on the other hand, described as works of art. festivals because an exposure in national has won in many festivals contests. In fact, In addition, a beauty pageant is run, c o n t e s t s a l s o l u r e s e c o n o m i c for several times already, it was declared with competitors from the different opportunities and tourism promotions. as Pintados-Kasadyaan champion. cultural areas with pageant contestants The governor said it is very expensive Moreover, it prides itself for being the wearing costumes representing their own to send contingents to the Aliwan but Aliwan Festival Champion few years ago. festival. (EOT/PIA-8)

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P6-M allotted for multi-purpose center in NSU

By Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran, April 2 (PIA) -- The representative of the lone district of Biliran announced during the 34th commencement exercises of Naval State University (NSU) that he will give funds for a new student multi-purpose center to the university. iliran congressman Rogelio J. Meanwhile, Espina shared to the NSU to the welfare and development of NSU, Espina said that he will allocate P6 graduates “to think out of the box” like the only tertiary school in the province of million from his Priority what American businessman and inventor Biliran.

Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) for Steve Jobs has done to make a difference He mentioned 300 NSU students the construction of said student facility. in the lives of people. who availed of his scholarship program Espina made the pronouncement He encouraged them to reinforce the wherein some of those who availed have after observing the lack of ventilation present workforce with their skills and been part of this year’s graduates. and absence of air conditioning facilities knowledge acquired from NSU for the Espina assured that “more things have inside the NSU Gymnasium which welfare of the nation. He also reminded to be done” under his watch as prompted him to issue such assurance for the graduates the sacrifices of their representative of Biliran for the the construction of a new student facility parents for what they have achieved. development of NSU. (EOT/RSV-PIA8 for more convenience to the NSU The first termer representative of Biliran) students.

Biliran also assured his continued support

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Ginger producers anticipate more income

By Ninfa Iluminda B. Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, April 2 (PIA) -- With the recent clamor for health foods, Pinabacdao (Samar) ginger producers may just be able to rise from poverty. "Back to basics" is making people realize that ginger even simply boiled, could cure colds, is good for the immune system, and soothes itchy throats.

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he ginger industry will usher in a better income for Samarnons in Pinabacdao with the assurance from a big Japanese buyer who will purchase the product in bulk.

So averred Mayor Mario Quijano in a recent informal interview at the Farmers’ Training Center in Pinabacdao as more than a hundred women from the Pantawid Pamilya program gathered to mark Women’s Day. Quijano said that ginger production in the hills of Pinabacdao will go full throttle as he invested in farm implements and heavy equipments to ensure the best and biggest ginger production in this part of the region.

“Even Governor Sharee Ann Tan expressed support, because she knows the potential of the market,” Quijano enthused.

He added that they have a Japanese buyer whose identity he withheld for the time being, for the semi-processed product.

“We will ask them to provide the rhizomes, they plant, we will support their farm implements and heavy equipments to till the land, then they will get the net proceeds, later,” Quijano said.

“Of course, we will deduct their taxes from there,” Quijano added.

Presently, all preparations are being done in the hills of Pinabacdao and all

angles are scrutinized to ensure that investments generate the needed ‘fruits’.

From soil analysis to farm trappings to heavy equipments—these are being laid down carefully to ensure the best results for the program, according to Nelson Badolid, the municipal agriculturist.

Pinabacdao is a farming municipality engaged in all crops, from bananas to rice and root crops including ginger, which are displayed in the Maharlika Highway for the travellers to see that all of these are from Pinabacdao farmers. (PIA 8-Samar)

EASTERN VISAYAS

IT’S MORE FUN IN MARABUT, SAMAR

2 OWWA scholars recognitions

7 garner

Cum

Laude

By Erna S. Gorne MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 3 (PIA) -- Together with 44 other honor students, two Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) scholars graduated Cum Laude during the Commencement Exercises of the Leyte Normal University held March 26 in Tacloban City.

We take pride in the achievements dependent of an active OFW with a basic Tacloban City on March 31 - Danna of our scholars. This makes evident monthly salary of $400 and below receives Mheliza Mae D. Budano garnered 93.8 that the financial assistance extended financial assistance of P10,000 per percent, topping the entire second grade to them as qualified beneficiaries of our semester, she said. level of the said school, Filamor further OFW (overseas Filipino workers) clients She further said Geraldo, with a grade reported. is not put to waste,” said OWWA- of 1.55, and Operio, with 1.65, The achiever is an OWWA scholar RWO8 OIC-Director II Ma. Evangelina V. earned a double degree in Bachelor of under the education component of Filamor in a press release.

Science in Secondary and Elementary Education and Livelihood Assistance Filamor said after four years of Education major in English.

Program whereby an eligible dependent of struggle for academic excellence, it was While in search for a private school deceased OFW who was an active worth the long wait for Ritzee Operio and to practice their profession, they plan to OWWA member at the time of death Mark Geraldo when they graduated Cum review for the September 2012 Licensure receives financial scholarship grant until Laude among 1,059 graduates.

Examination for Teachers (LET). completion of a tertiary degree, Filamor The graduates are OWWA scholars Another OWWA scholar grabbed said. (PIA 8-SoLeyte) under the OFW Dependents Scholarship first honor award in the Commencement Program (OFW-DSP) whereby an eligible Exercises of the Sto. Nino SPED Center,

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400 summer jobs up for grabs at Borongan City LGU

By Alicia E. Nicart BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, March 30 (PIA) -- Some 400 summer jobs are now available at the city government of Borongan, according to the office of City Mayor, Ma. Fe Abunda.

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he report added that these jobs are intended for students and out-of-school-youths(OSY), aged 15 to 25 whose income could be saved for the next school year opening.

At present, 289 have already applied where 10 of them are OSYs. The program, which is better known as Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES), is shared with the

Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), where 40 percent of the SPES fee is being shouldered and 60 percent by the LGU. Other than the monetary consideration for the beneficiaries, DOLE considers of equal importance, in instilling work ethics and values reorientation on the part of the SPES, as one special factor for a gainful

employment.

This is also in parallel to the standards of the Office of the City Mayor as a SPES partner, which is to inculcate the dignity of labor.

SPES applicants should bring IDs, baptismal certificate and current grades in report cards for students. (PIA-8 Eastern Samar)

NSamar builds 69 classrooms, 6 typhoon-resistant school buildings

By Ailene N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar, April 2 (PIA) -- The provincial government of Northern Samar was able to build 69 classrooms and six more typhoon-resistant school buildings for the school year 2011-2012. This was learned from the office of Governor Paul Daza.

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he said school buildings cost P 75 million: P45 million came from the fund of the provincial government and P 30 million from School Building Program of the Department of Education (DepEd).

The 69 school buildings were built in different towns of the province, while the six typhoon-resistant school buildings were for the Capul Elementary School, Catarman 1 Central Elementary School, Laoang 1 Central Elementary School, Las

Navas Central Elementary School, Lope de Vega Central Elementary School, and Salhag Elementary School town of San Roque.

According to Sylma Lutao, the provincial information officer, these typhoon-resistant school buildings can be used as evacuation centers in times of calamity, as this was constructed complete with kitchen and toilets for such contingencies.

This initiative by the provincial government was in response to the shortage of classrooms and school buildings in the entire province, considering the opening of classes on June 2012 will already implement the K+12 program of DepEd. Aside from school buildings, the provincial government through Governor Daza maintains its scholarship program for poor but deserving students of the province. (EOPT/PIA8-Northern 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) 3378718/3377301 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. Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu Regional Director, PIA8

Managing Editor Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. Contributors All PIA Information Officers of Regions 6, 7 & 8 Production and Layout Edson J. Bañares 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, Children’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