One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 2 Issue 39

Vol 2

Issue 39

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Barangay Tanod Jose Chedel Bertuldo of Barangay Poblacion, President Roxas (2nd from L) who was adjudged second place winner in the 2012 Region VI Search for Outstanding Barangay Tanod (individual category) with Punong Barangay Anjoe Samson (4th from L) poses with top provincial officials led by Gov. Victor Tanco (L) and DILG Regional Director Evelyn Trompeta (4th from R) during the awardee’s courtesy call on the governor.(PIA-JBG)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

September 24 - 30, 2012

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

PASAR operations show it’s more profitable in the Philippines, Aquino says

By Marcelo M. Pedalino PASAR, Isabel, Leyte, Sept 26 (PIA) -- President Benigno Aquino III paraphrased a familiar, popular slogan of the Department of Tourism (DoT) to stress the point that investing in the country is more profitable in addition to having more fun simply by being here.

“Through fostering a business environment in quality and ingenuity rather than corruption, we have shown the world that not only is it more fun in the Philippines because indeed it is more profitable,” the President said in a speech at the gymnasium here inside the sprawling PASAR compound.

The Chief Executive was the guest of honor and speaker at the inauguration of the industrial complex’s resumption of its smelting operation following a fire incident in January this year.

In his speech, President Aquino recalled a meeting he had in Europe with top executives of PASAR’s major stakeholders a few months back in which they talked about expanding investments of the company with fresh capital of about $ 500 to $600 million.

“My countrymen will not take it against you if you decide to invest more than that,” the President said while looking at David Halley, PASAR President and CEO, drawing cheers, laughter, and applause from the audience.

Aquino cited PASAR for supporting community and environment-friendly activities even as it keeps an eye at having profits for the company’s continued operations in a span of more than twenty years that not even a blaze early

this year stopped its business.

“Likewise, I extend my gratitude to PASAR for continuing their operation here and for relying the sheer talent of the Filipino people,” the President said.

He also rallied PASAR workers, saying “to all those working here, thanks for proving once again that the Filipino worker is indeed world class.”

Joining the President were Department of Energy Secretary Rene Almendras, Department of Labor Secretary (DOLE) Rosalinda Baldoz, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Gregorio Domingo, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, Sen. Teofisto Guingona III, Cong. Lucy Torres, Leyte Gov. Jericho Petilla and PASAR officials. (PIA-Southern Leyte)

President Benigno Aquino assisted by PASAR president and CEO David Halley unveils a marker of the newly-rehabilitated environmental facility at the Leyte Industrial Development Estate (LIDE) in Isabel, Leyte, September 26. With the President are 4th district representative Lucy Torres-Gomez, Trade and Industry secretary Gregory Domingo and PASAR chairman Angel Veloso.

(Vino R. Cuayzon)

New PRO-6 hospital to handle simple surgeries, outpatient services

Police officers segregating and distributing mangrove seedlings and propagules for planting after the Fun Run on September 21 initiated by the Rotary Club of Siquijor Central, local government unit of Larena and the Civil Service Commission (CSC) as part of the celebration of the 112th Philippine Civil Service and 41st Siquijor charter anniversaries.

PNP-Siquijor alone planted about 1,000 mangrove seedlings that day, plus the 1,000 seedlings by the rest of the participating government and private entities, making a total of about 2,000 mangrove seedlings planted that day at Cangmalalag coastal area in Larena, Siquijor. (PIA-Siquijor)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Romeo L. Dignos, provincial director, DOST-Biliran (standing at left) poses with his staff in the DOST-Biliran booth during the Visayas Cluster Science and Technology Fair and Exhibits held on Monday, September 24, 2012 at the Tacloban City Convention Center. The exhibit runs from September 2428, 2012.(rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Also CLICK Here...

By Shiela Q. Patoza ILOILO CITY, Sept 28 (PIA) -- A P10-million hospital of the Police Regional Office (PRO-6) was opened on Sept.

28 at Camp Delgado here through an inauguration and blessing ceremony led by PNP Chief Director General Nicanor A. Bartolome. .

“The hospital will boost our services,” CSupt.

Agrimero Cruz Jr., PRO-6 director said.

The facility is accredited by the Department of Health as an ambulatory surgical clinic wherein surgical operations not requiring an overnight stay are performed in the hospital.

It provides services in an outpatient setting such as simple surgery, certain pain management and diagnostic and consultation.

CInsp. John Dexter Lopez of Physical Examination Office said any complex medical surgical cases will be referred to specialty hospitals.

Meanwhile, the winners of the Search for Best of the Bests in Western Visayas were also awarded by the Police Regional Office 6 in time for the visit of PNP Director General Bartolome who also led the awarding of winners.

The event is in connection with the 11th anniversary of the Police Service, said PO3 Francisco B. Lindero Jr. of PRO-6 Public Information Office.

The winners are for the Individual Category, Unit Category and Best Women’s and Children Protection Desk.

Awards were also given to the best supportive local government units in the PNP’s Integrated Transformation Program as well as a special award to the PRO6 Women and Children Protection Desk.

Plaques of Merit and “Best of the Bests” badges were also given to the awardees and their units. (JCM/SQP-PIA6/ PRO6)

PNoy says P7.4-B airport to rise in Bohol

By Fayette C. Riñen TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Sept 27 (PIA) -- President Aquino revealed that his administration is bent on fulfilling its promise to build a modern new airport facility for the province of Bohol before his term ends in 2016.

Aquino announced the good news as he led the awarding ceremonies of the “The Outstanding Barangay Officials of the Year" provincial winners for 2011 during the 1st Barangayan Day celebration of the province of Bohol held Sept. 26 at the Bohol Wisdom School and attended by a crowd of some 6,000 barangay officials.

Clad in casual jeans and polo shirt, the President was met with loud cheers upon his arrival despite being late for over an hour due to two engagements in nearby Leyte province.

In his 20-minute speech, Aquino said that during the September 4 meeting of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board where he is chairman, an allocation of P7.4 billion has been set aside for the construction of the airport on Panglao Island, a premier tourist destination. “Construction will start November 2013,” said Aquino as he promised that the new airport will be completed before he steps down from office four years from now.

The news was received enthusiastically by Bohol’s top officials led by Gov. Edgar Chatto. \Gov. Chatto in his welcome

message voiced out his gratitude to the President for including in his 2012 SONA the Panglao Airport as one of his priority projects.

The airport facility is needed to support Bohol’s growing tourism industry as more and more tourists, foreign and domestic, flock to the province to savor its rich eco-tourism wonders.

Since the groundbreaking of the Panglao Airport sometime in 2008, Boholanos have long awaited for the project to materialize. “We thank you for your full support in the development and progress of Bohol,” said a grateful Chatto.

Aquino also stated that he has instructed the Department of Public Works and Highways to work on the road rehabilitation in the northern part of Bohol from Sagbayan town going to the town of Danao, popular for its extreme sports adventure.

Cabinet secretaries who formed part of the Presidential Party were Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, Energy Sec. Rene Almendras and Presidential Spokesperson Sec. Edwin Lacierda whose roots come from Bohol.

Aquino stayed for an hour before departing for his second engagement which was the mass oath taking of new Liberal Party (LP) members from the province. (PIA 7)

WESTERN VISAYAS

2 Philhealth-6 households

MOVES

to

reach

indigent Paseo de Iloilo—the most sophisticated courtship and flirtation dance of the Spanish Era

By Elsa S. Subong

ILOILO CITY, Sept 24 (PIA) -- Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) members in distant, far-flung areas in Western Visayas will no longer suffer the inconvenience of travelling to transact with the PhilHealth.

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his is because PhilHealth-6 has embarked on a project called MOVES or Mobile Orientation, Validation and Enrolment Scheme, which will be launched middle of October in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.

With the implementation of the project, PhilHealth Regional Vice President for Western Visayas Dennis Mas said the agency will be distributing 350,928 ID cards to sponsored program members in the region.

“The project also seeks to draw more people to become members,” Mas said. MOVES aims to bring PhilHealth

services closer to its members as part of the government’s Universal Health Program by providing quality insurance coverage to all Filipinos.

MOVES, Mas added, will provide off-site online services to cater to all PhilHealth related needs and queries of its members.

Recipients of the Philhealth IDs under the program are the identified poor families of the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) by the DSWD. These recipients will have the opportunity to have their membership

registration, updating, printing of MDRs and claims inquiry at their own town plaza, covered gym, session hall or school.

Added to this is the purpose of enlightening non-PhilHealth members on the different services they can avail from PhilHealth.

Prior to the launching of the MOVES on October 26, the PhilHealth, through its local offices, has been conducting visitations with local government units for the conduct of the MOVES in their respective areas. (JCM/ESS/PIA 6-Iloilo)

Agrarian beneficiaries to get support services, facilities from DAR

By Easter Anne D. Doza NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Sept 24 (PIA) -- Five agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) and cooperatives will receive professional and common services facilities from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) as part of the implementation of Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (Arccess).

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AR Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer for North Negros Enrique Paderes and the respective presidents representing the five ARBOs signed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) outlining the provisions and conditions of the grant.

The five ARBOs are Dolis Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative (ARBMPC) in Dolis, Calatrava; Hacienda Bernadita ARBMPC in Caduhaan, Cadiz City; CASA ARBMPC in Concepcion, Talisay City; Bennez, Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Farmers Association in Alangilan, Bacolod City; and the San Vicente

1 Agrarian Reform Cooperative in Capt.

Ramon, Silay City. “The signing of the MOA signifies our responsibilities and accountabilities to the project because this is just the start for us to be able to benefit for more projects on the future,” Paderes told the representatives of the ARBOs. DAR Regional Director Elmo Bañares challenged both the ARBOs and his staff at DAR with the signing of the MOA. “This MOA is a challenge for you as beneficiaries not to stop working not just for your organization, your members but the community as a whole. I also challenge my colleague in the DAR not to let this stop

with the signing process but will continue on to reach the goal in providing these services to the ARBs,” Bañares said.

DAR also considers the implementation of Arccess as a measure to safeguard the sugar industry come 2015 with the free-trade agreement since most ARBs are venturing into sugar farming.

Professional services include training, agricultural extension, business development training for community based enterprise organizer (CBEO) while common services comprises of farm machines and equipment.

(JCM/EAD-PIA6, Negros Occidental)

Panay provinces gather for 2nd Watershed Summit

By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, Sept 25 (PIA) -- Representatives and stakeholders of the four provinces of Panay Island -- Iloilo, Capiz, Antique, and Aklan and the island province of Guimaras gathered at the Governor Corazon L. Cabagnot Tourism and Training Center for the Second Watershed Summit.

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he Second Watershed Summit, with the theme “Follow the Water, Treasure our Lives” was hosted by the province of Aklan through the Aklan Rivers Development Council (ARDC), in partnership with the Kalibo Save the Mangrove Association (Kasama) and the Kahublagan Sang Panimalay Foundation Inc. The summit aimed to strengthen the provinces’ coordinated efforts and initiatives in the protection, conservation, and management of the watersheds as integral parts of people’s responses to the threats of climate change.

A total of 175 participants attended the summit from the five provinces, composed of Sanggunia ng Panlalawig an members,

Environment and Natural Resources Officers of local government units, regional and provincial heads and representatives of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Agriculture, Department of Interior and Local Government, non-government organizations, people’s organizations, government employees, and the local media.

Highlights of the summit included watershed summit overview, which was delivered by Jessica C. Salas, chairperson of Kahublagan Sang Panimalay Foundation, Inc.; experiences and reports of participating provinces on their current activities, programs and projects to protect watersheds and the

environment in general; planning process for watershed management discussed by Director Alicia Lustica of DENR-6; convergence of services at the river basin, integrating watershed in disaster risk reduction management, forest and climate change protection and re-greening status in Panay and Guimaras. Governor Carlito S. Marquez, whose message for the activity was delivered in his stead by Allen S. Quimpo, ARDC executive director, lauded the activity in Aklan emphasizing that protecting the environment is very encouraging if the move has the full support, involvement and cooperation of government and private sector.

(JCM/VGV-PIA6, Aklan)

WESTERN VISAYAS

Paseo de Iloilo—originated in Iloilo

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BIR-Capiz nets P463-M revenue

By Jemin B. Guillermo

ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Sept 25 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in Capiz has collected P463.83 million in taxes from January to August this year.

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he collection for the eight-month period is higher by P11.52 million compared to the collection goal during the period, Capiz Revenue District Officer Gil Tabanda said.

Tabanda added that for August this year, the revenue collection reached P62.17 million, which is also higher than its target for the month.

He said BIR officials in Capiz continue to intensify advocacy campaigns so that the public, particularly taxpayers, will be able to understand their role and responsibility in

the government through prompt payment of exact taxes.

“Continuous information and education campaigns are necessary so that the people will know the purpose of taxation which is the lifeblood of the nation,” Tabanda said.

He likewise said their activities to reach and even exceed their collection goal include tax mapping, campaign on the issuance of official receipt and the agency’s “Premyo sa Resibo (prize for receipt),” investigating erring taxpayers and tax evaders through Run After Tax Evaders (Rate) program and

the implementation of “Oplan Kandado,” among others. Tabanda said they are also closely monitoring tax compliance in agricultural and fishery activities such as sugarcane and rice farming, livestock, poultry and fishpond operation, including palay and corn trading in Capiz.

He said that tax compliance by hotels, resorts and restaurant operators is also being looked into, including the sale of subdivision lots and the payment of exact taxes by professionals such as lawyers, engineers and doctors.(JCM/JBG-PIA6 Capiz)

BSP slates economic, financial learning activities in Iloilo

By Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. ILOILO CITY, Sept 26 (PIA) -- The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will re-launch its Economic and Financial Learning Center (EFLC) at its Iloilo Branch here on October 2 to underscore its commitment to continue giving the people of Western Visayas access to economic and financial learning.

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he EFLC re-launching will be part of activities that will be conducted by the BSP here under its Economic and Financial Learning Program (EFLP) until October 4.

BSP will also hold a Public Information Campaign (PIC) on the role of the BSP in the economy on October 3 at Amigo Terrace hotel and the users’ forum on BSP-Produced Statistics on October 4 at the same venue.

BSP Iloilo Branch Head Deputy Director Job Nepomuceno said the EFLC is an educational facility at the branch where researchers and students can access for free, data produced by the BSP and other

information in the areas of money, credit, banking, accounting, management and selected economic indicators.

The re-launching of the local EFLC, already in operation since 2008, is in line with the BSP’s master plan to set up EFLCs not only in its Manila main office but also in its 21 regional offices and branches nationwide.

On the other hand, the EFLP is an outreach knowledge activity of the BSP designed to promote its advocacy programs and to enhance public awareness of different economic and financial issues needed to make good decisions. The PIC activity will cover topics on recent economic developments and

the role of the BSP in the economy with particular emphasis on the three pillars of central banking, namely price stability, financial stability and efficient payments and settlements system. The users’ forum will be part of the BSP’s celebration of National Statistics Month this October and will cover topics on monetary and financial statistics, balance of payments and external accounts and expectations surveys and leading indicators as well as regional economic developments. BSP Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr. and Deputy Governor Diwa C. Guinigundo will lead the conduct of the activities here. (JSC/BSP-PIA6)

Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries to get Tesda training

By Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique, Sept 25 (PIA) -- Beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilya will soon avail themselves of technical vocational (tech-voc) training from Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda).

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he government has allotted funds for Pantawid Pamilya program to uplift the living conditions of poor families, Deputy Director General Teodoro Pascua said in a press conference during his visit in Antique.

Tesda and the Department of Social Welfare and Development have partnered in this aspect, he said.

“To make them self-reliant and sustainable, we need to train these families in various technical vocational courses so that they can start their own livelihood and will have a sustainable source of income,” Pascua said.

Pascua added that supporting the health and educational needs of Pantawid Pamilya families is like feeding them in a day while providing them skills and knowledge through tech-voc courses.

Antique is one of the provinces in the

country that are recipients of Pantawid Pamilya program wherein more than 20,000 families from 18 towns are receiving support through the conditional cash transfer program.

Aside from Pantawid Pamilya families, Tesda-Antique has also extended support through tech-voc trainings to indigenous people and persons with disabilities.

It has also provided tool kits to certified workers dubbed, “Tesda Specialista” where Antique has 50 recipients for them to start their livelihood and become entrepreneurs.

Meanwhile, a candle lighting for peace initiated by the Alpha Company of the 82nd Infantry Battalion, Third Infantry Division, Philippine Army was held Sept. 22 at the gymnasium of San Remigio, Antique to cap the observance of National Peace Consciousness Month in the province.

A fun run was also held participated in by some five hundred participants from different

sectors of society. Mayor Glenn V. Cabigunda represented by Alex Marfil, municipal administrator, thanked the Philippine Army (PA) for initiating such activity, which for a long time, has never happened in the municipality.

Still in Antique,the Rotary Club of Antique initiated a Peace Forum in San Pedro National High School, San Pedro, San Jose, Antique as part of the International Peace Day celebration.

The forum aimed to bring long and lasting peace not only in the countryside but also in the hearts and minds of young students.

The club, headed by Fe M. Osorio, president, took time out to be with students and teachers of the school together with several speakers to talk about topics on drug abuse, hazing and fraternities, anti-smoking, peer bullying, and disaster mitigation in schools. (JCM/MLG/PSM-PIA6 Antique)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Military celebrates Int'l Day of Peace Mazurka Boholana-- a Spanish-inspired

By Hazel F. Gloria

ballroom dance from the Bohol

CEBU CITY, Sept 26 (PIA) -- Military personnel from different units under Central Command (Centcom) converged to celebrate the International Day of Peace on September 21.

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lmost 550 officers joined the activity in celebration of the World Peace Day to show their commitment in “Winning the Peace” in the Visayas region.

A mass was officiated by Rev. Fr. Bart Sagadal, chaplain of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Region 7.

After his homily, soldiers were requested to recite the “Pledge of Peace” inside the St. Jude Chapel in Camp Lapulapu.

Candles were lit after the signing of the Pledge in front of the chapel.

Acting Centcom Commander Major General Jose Mabanta Jr. emphasized that with its campaign plan “Bayanihan,” the winning of peace is more than just a mission but a commitment of every member of the military.

In 2004, the government issued Proclamation No. 675 declaring September of every year as National Peace Consciousness Month to instill greater awareness among Filipinos on the comprehensive peace process and to promote a culture of peace based on non-violence, respect for fundamental rights and freedom, tolerance,

understanding and solidarity.

This year’s theme: “Ako. Ikaw. Tayo.

Magkakaiba, Nagkakaisa sa Kapayapaan” emphasizes the importance of unity despite diversity and the individual participation of each Filipino in moving the peace process forward.

Now on its ninth year, the annual event continues its aims of harnessing a culture of peace among different sectors and inspiring them to play their part in achieving a just and lasting peace for the country. (RMN/HFG-PIA 7/ CentCom)

Keeping a healthy lifestyle prevents kidney disease

By Rizalie A. Calibo DUMAGUETE CITY, Sept 23 (PIA) -- "Keep a healthy lifestyle to prevent kidney disease," says Silliman University Medical Center (SUMC) nephrologist Roy Diamond Arco in a Kapihan sa Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Forum at Bethel Guesthouse, Dumaguete City.

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rco discussed the importance of kidney, its significant functions, and prevalence of renal disease in the Philippines. The information is in support of the advocacy of government to kidney care and disease prevention.

He said kidney disease is the ninth leading cause of death in the country and is attributed to the people’s lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits.

He cited the 2008 National Nutrition Health Survey that says 2.6 percent of Filipinos have kidney disease, of which 11,000 are undergoing dialysis and about 40 percent have died because of their inability to pay for the treatment.

Kidney disease often cannot be cured, but fortunately, it can be prevented if

detected at an early stage.

He said prevention and early management, although very extensive, can achieve significant benefits for the public and has become the advocacy of the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI).

Through the years, he said, the NKTI has reached out to several sectors nationwide and continuously disseminates health information, provides medical services, shares expertise, and renders assistance to better prevent and treat different kidney ailments.

Arco encouraged everyone to have a regular urinalysis or laboratory test of urine for early detection to prevent kidney disease.

The kidneys are two vital organs that

keep the blood clean and kidney disease can be detected through urinalysis.

He said kidney is responsible for removing toxins or waste products from our body.

Aside from filtering waste products, it also controls water, blood pressure, vitamin D, calcium absorption, among other functions of the human body so when it fails, everything else fail.

Regular dialysis comes as the next alternative but it cannot replace all these functions and is very expensive, Arco said.

So, to stay away from kidney problems and to be healthy, one should keep a healthy lifestyle which includes proper exercise and a healthy diet, Arco added. (mbcn/RAC-PIA7, Siquijor)

Civil servants, civic organization hold fun run, mangrove planting

By Rizalie A. Calibo SIQUIJOR, Sept 25 (PIA) -- Nearly 500 civil servants, students and members of the Rotary Club of Siquior Central (RCSC) joined the fun run and mangrove planting on Friday, September 21.

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hese are parts of the celebrations of the 112th Philippine Civil Service anniversary and 41st Founding Anniversary of the province of Siquijor.

The activity was spearheaded by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Siquijor field office in cooperation with the RCSC and the local government unit of Larena.

The fun run started at 6 a.m. at the Larena Port Area Rotunda and ended at Cangmalalag, Larena, Siquijor where the runners planted about 2,000 mangrove propagules and seedlings.

Registration fees of P100 for the head of office, P50 for department heads, P20 for rank and file were collected by the Rotary club to help construct a school building for the New Corrigedor School in Calunsan, Larena,

Siquijor.

CSC-Siquijor Provincial Director Gina Crucio in her brief message said, the activities were not only meant to celebrate the two important events in the province but to enhance and help our finite environment.

She said she was glad that people of Siquijor joined hands in protecting and rehabilitating Siquijor's coastal and marine resources.

Mangrove planting is a way of bringing back the diminishing fireflies for which Siquijor has been known for as famed by Isla del Fuego, she said.

Provincial Prosecutor Jim Palmitos, also an officer of the RCSC lauded the joint efforts and hoped to make it a regular project of the Rotary.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education (DepEd) in Siquijor celebrated on September 21 the 2012 Alternative Learning System (ALS) Day and the graduation of Accreditation & Equivalency (A&E) test passers at the Social Center in Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor.

The celebration aimed to create advocacy and social mobilization among the stakeholders and community on the impact of alternative learning in the improvement of the quality of life of the family, community and the country, said Schools Division Superintendent Joseph Irwin A. Lagura.

Governor Orlando A. Fua Jr, in his graduation message, lauded DepEd for the program that has contributed in improving the province’s literacy. (MBCN/RMN/RAC-PIA7 Siquijor)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

Mazurka Boholana-- a Spanish-inspired ballroom dance from the Bohol

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NegOr turns over 5 completed infra projects in Basay town

By Rachelle M. Nessia

DUMAGUETE CITY, Sept 25 (PIA) -- The provincial government last week turned over four completed infrastructure projects in Basay town.

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statement from Capitol said the projects are among the infrastructure programs that were given a budget of P3.3 million as part of Basay's share from last year's 20 percent economic development fund.

In a ceremony, Gov. Roel Degamo symbolically turned over to Basay Mayor Dandilgust Abrio the following completed projects: street lighting, two-classroom school building at Bal-os Elementary School, improvement of Bal-os Public Market, and two cementing projects of

portions of roads in Brgy. Bongalonan.

Degamo said the P200,000 street lighting project is the initial phase of a bigger electrification program slated for Basay.

For the cementing of a 100-meter stretch portion of a road in Brgy.

Bongalonan, the provincial government shelled out P300,000.

The road project is seen as critical support infrastructure for the ongoing development of the marine protected area and mangrove rehabilitation project in

Basay.

On the other hand, the cementing of a portion of Tiabanan-Sandig Road in the same barangay amounting to P250,000 is seen to benefit not only residents in the area but also members of the Cabongbongan Small Farmers Association (CSFA).

With the road now usable, CSFA members can easily transport their produce to sell at the municipal public market. (RMN/PIA Negros Oriental)

NFA assures enough rice despite importation cuts

By Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Sept 25 (PIA) -- There are more than enough supply of rice at the National Food Authority (NFA) bodegas although the national government decided to cut heavily on import volume.

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his was assured by Bohol NFA Manager Maria Fe Evasco in a Kapihan sa PIA where she was a guest. Evasco said government imported 2.2 million metric tons (MT) of rice from staple-producing countries in 2010, one that was drastically cut to 800,000 MT by 2011.

This year, government decided to import only about 500,000 MT by securing the 120,000 MT from Thailand and Vietnam while allowing private sector participation in the importation pegging a quota of 380,000 MT to supply the country’s need for the staple crop, she said.

While non-industry people have started airing concerns of possible shortfall in the supply of rice, Evasco assured that none of such will happen here. She said Bohol has a share of the national government procured

rice and the supply comes in according to a pre-programmed marketing plan and there is also a local procurement program that assures the public that NFA bodegas are full.

“Fortunately, we have a big volume, hold-over inventory plus harvests from palay producing provinces, that should keep us supplied for a time until the next delivery from Cebu arrives," she added.

Evasco came with NFA Bohol Operations Manager Ramon Banluta and Acting Information Officer Jhoel Lim to the Kapihan sa PIA to announce the National Grains Industry Week and the NFA’s 40th Anniversary.

Banluta requests farmers to sell their harvests to NFA, which buys palay at P17 or at P17.70 per kilo with premiums for delivered, dried and cooperative member

farmer sellers.

The palays also end up milled and stocked at NFA store houses to form part of the local inventory. These stocks could be mixed with iron fortificants as the g ov e r n m e n t ad vo c at e s f or i r on supplementation, according to Lim. Lim said that this is part of the NFA rice fortification program where the mineral requirement of Filipinos is responded by the I-Rice (iron fortified).

The iron-fortified rice packs have some yellow rice streaks in the pack. These are the iron fortified rice that enhances the mineral in the cooked rice, Lim added.

Some people might think these are dirty but these yellow colored grains, Evasco said, are the iron content of the rice. (mbcn/rahc-PIA7, Bohol)

Bohol crimes increase in August

By Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Sept 25 (PIA) -- Crimes in Bohol increased by 17 cases more from July 12 to August 12, according to police reports at the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting held at the Crabhouse, September 18.

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ohol Police Chief Senior Superintendent Constantino Barot however added that total crime volume this year is still lower by 31.7 percent compared to last year when total crimes in Bohol registered a high of 274 over this year’s 187.

This increase breaks the trending decrease in crimes recorded since the continued down-slide sustained its momentum from March 12 until August.

Police noted that Bohol crimes peaked from February 12 to March 12 when 288 crimes got into police blotters.

The monthly tally of crimes then dropped from 288 in April to 209 in May;

193 in June and 170 in July before picking up again at 187 in September.

This month’s 187 crimes comprised 75 non-index and 122 index crimes, Barot said in his PPOC report.

Earlier, Camp Dagohoy authorities explained that a high crime volume can also be telling of how the local police are getting pro-active against criminality.

Central Visayas Police Assistant Regional Director for Operations Louie Oppus explained that even with a high crime volume recorded in a locality, if the high volume is brought about by high non-index crimes, it meant that the police are getting more proactive by initiating

operations on their own against crimes punishable by special laws.

In Bohol, outgoing Police Director Barot credited the effective implementation of the Police Integrated Patrol System (PIPS) that helped the police in its crime prevention efforts.

Barot agreed though that there is a need to intensify and improve intelligence monitoring at the station level with concentration on motorcycle riding criminals and robbery groups.

He also asked for community vigilance, which plays a vital role in the overall crime prevention of the entire province. (mbcn/rahc-PIA7 Bohol)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

PNoy sees Eastern Visayas as coconut water supplier, vows to energize sitios

By Ninfa B. Quirante

TINIKLING – a Filipino folk dance originated in Leyte

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Sept 26 (PIA) - President Benigno Simeon Aquino III admitted that Eastern Visayas is an emerging supplier of coconut water which is drawing demands from foreign countries.

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n Aquino’s visit to Leyte Wednesday, he talked about the region’s potential.

He narrated how this demand has gone up through the years.

“Tingnan po natin ang lumalagong industriya ng coconut water. Noong 2009, 483,862 liters nito ang iniluwas natin. Noong 2010, umangat ito sa 1,807,583 litro.” (Let us take a look at the emerging industry of coconut water, In 2009 we exported 483,862 liters; in 2012 it grew up to 1, 807,583 liters.)

He jested that he received criticisms for taking pride in coconut water. He said he did not mind them as he proved them wrong - coconut water export reached 16,756,500 liters.

“Coconut water export has now reached 16 million liters and nearing almost 17 million,” the President said in the national language.

This year, Aquino said that the demand is still growing, for an industry that was just discarded a few years ago, coconut water is earning the country a considerable sum of money, giving the poor farmers income.

The president ended up his speech by promising to focus on the development of other

commercial crops in the region like palay, abaca, sugarcane and marine products in the region.

As the President vowed to focus economic development in Leyte, Samar too will be included as the Aquino administration vowed to push inclusive growth.

President Aquino also visited Isabel, Leyte where he led the ceremonial switch-on of 192 sitios in Region 8 under the Sitio Electrification Program at Galicano N. Ruiz Center Covered Court and conveyed his commitment to bring electricity to the remaining 36,000 sitios across the country.

He said he is grateful to the joint forces of the Department of Energy and the National Electrification Administration for being able to respond to the P36-billion financial requirement to energize said sitios throughout the country.

Aquino reported that under the program 2,395 sitios were already energized from October 2011 until July 2012. He hoped to reach out 4,487 more sitios before this year ends.

In Region 8, 184 more sitios were targeted to be energized by the end of October this year, he said.

The President further said, “ Batid natin ang kahalagahan ng kuryente sa komunidad upang makausad at lalo pang umunlad. Kaya naman huwag natin itong sayangin, huwag nating balewalain.

Maaaring kaya nating bayaran ang bawat kusing na ating nasasayang, pero isipin nating sa bawat sandali ng pagwawaldas, may isang batang halos panlabuan na ng mata sa pagbabasa gamit lamang ang liwanag ng kandila; may mga kababayan tayo sa liblib na lugar na kinalyo na ang daliri sa gabi-gabing pagpapaningas ng lampara; at may mga pamilyang hanggang ngayon, madilim pa rin ang tinatanaw na katuparan ng kanilang mithiin.”

Meanwhile, Atty. Emmanuel Sano, president of the Federation of Rural Electric Cooperatives in Region 8) reported in the same event that the 11 member - electric cooperatives also supported to the energization of 5,334 out of 7,372 sitios in the region, as of press time.

He noted that the region received from President Aquino a total of P156.7M for the sitio electrification program from September 2011 until August 2012. (PIA-Samar & PIA-SoLeyte)

Filipinos today are more expressive on the Presidency - Sec. Coloma

By Alicia E. Nicart TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Sept 25 (PIA) -- The Filipinos of today have more positive things to say about the Presidency, indeed they are now more expressive about it than they were before.

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o said Presidential Communication Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Sonny Coloma in a press conference Tuesday at the VIP Lounge of the DZR Airport of Tacloban this province.

Sec. Coloma was referring to the latest survey of the Social Weather Stations (SWS), on August 24-27 which revealed President Aquino’s net satisfaction rating from +49% in March 2012 and +42% in May 2012, to +67% in August 2012.

In previous years, Coloma added, people did not express such level of satisfaction rating, rather they seemed hesitant to say their level of satisfaction on the performance of past Presidents. An early report also reads that based on their gathered statistics, SWS

interpreted that 77 percent, or nearly four out of five Filipinos have expressed satisfaction with the President's performance while only 10 percent or one out of 10 Filipinos are dissatisfied. “This is the highest he got during his entire term up to the present,” SWS said.

Congressman Ben Evardone of Eastern Samar has likewise noted the same. According to him, the latest survey showing that fewer Filipinos consider themselves poor is a concrete manifestation that the economic gains under the Aquino administration is trickling down to the less privileged sector of our society. “This is the result of both the pro-poor programs of President Aquino and the sustained economic growth of our country despite the eco turmoil worldwide,” he said.

However, Evardone said this is a challenge to all Filipinos how to sustain this direction to ensure inclusive growth.

“We should all do our share to sustain this growth,” he added. “This positive development is complimented by the recent result also of a survey showing that joblessness is decreasing. All these positive developments can be attributed to the right path of good governance of Pres. Aquino which serves as the main anchor of development and progress.

Because of this good governance initiative, international and domestic business confidence is very high.

This translates to more investments and job opportunities,” Cong. Evardone concluded.

(PIA-8)

Phl to add more seismic stations, early flood warning systems

By Rodrigo S. Victoria TACLOBAN CITY, Sept 25 (PIA) -- No less than the two chiefs of the attached agencies of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) publicly announced the plan of government to increase the number of early warning devices and systems that detect incidence of earthquakes and flooding in the country.

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r. Renato U. Solidum, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) and Reymund E. Liboro, director, Science and Technology Information Institute (STII) revealed to the members of national media including the local media in Eastern Visayas in a press conference held at the Rotary Club House this city, that government plans to add early warning devices and systems to further prevent the loss of lives and properties during natural calamities.

Solidum informed media that government will establish 85 seismic stations in strategic places of the country prone to earthquakes by

2016. The Phivolcs chief added that the Philippine government is now more prepared in determining earthquakes magnitude and intensity that are helpful information to the public.

Meanwhile, Liboro also said the Aquino administration plans to install early flood warning systems in 18 major river basins in the country through the Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards). It was learned that Project NOAH will put in place a responsive program for disaster prevention and mitigation and to be able to provide a six-hour lead time warning to vulnerable communities against impending floods and to use advanced

technology to enhance current geo-hazard vulnerability maps. NOAH also aims to improve disaster management capacity of local governments and assure homeland security by reducing casualties and property loss from extreme hazard events, it was learned. Solidum and Liboro were the resource persons in the technical session held in the afternoon of the opening day of the 2012 Visayas Cluster Science and Technology Fair and Exhibits held September 24 at the Tacloban Convention Center.

The Phivolcs chief talked on Phivolcs and risk management while Liboro lectured on Project NOAH. (rv-PIA 8, Biliran)

EASTERN VISAYAS

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Four eco-towns up in Eastern Samar TINIKLING – a Filipino folk dance originated in Leyte

By Samuel D. Candido

BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Sept 20 (PIA) -- To address the threats posed by global crisis, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) identified 10 pilot local government units (LGUs) in the entire country for their project dubbed: Eco-town Framework Building Climate Resilient Communities.

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n eco-town is a municipality or group of municipalities located within and around the boundaries of critical key biodiversity areas at high risk to the effects of climate change based on climate scenarios done by the Philippine Atmospheric and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) according to Commissioner Naderev Sano of CCC. In Eastern Samar, there are three municipalities and one city that will benefit from this project. These are Guiuan, Llorente, Can-avid, and the city of Borongan.

These areas are located at the Pacific Ocean side of Samar Island and form part of the Samar Island Natural Park, a protected area rich in biological diversity and natural resources, and characterized by thriving ecosystems. “We need to protect the ecosystems of these three municipalities and

one city as it will play a vital role in ensuring the survival of the people there against the adverse impacts of climate change,” Sano said.

He further said that the main objective of the project is to enable municipalities to be climate change-resilient, thus making them economically and ecologically sustainable.

On August 1, the municipality of Guiuan through Mayor Annaliza G. Kwan signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Sano.

On September 19, Borongan also signed a MOA with the CCC with Mayor Fe R. Abunda, an witnessed by Atty. Byron Suyot, the representative of Cong. Ben P. Evardone, Engr. Levi Nicart, representative of Governor Nicart Sr., and the acting City Mayor Emmanuel T. Tiusonco. Moreover, on September 20, the CCC team will be in Can

-avid to sign a separate MOA entered into by the Commission with the Mayor of Can-avid and on September 21, Friday, the CCC team will also be in Llorente to enter a separate MOA. Under the agreement, the Commission will provide technical and financial support to help the local governments enhance its existing plans to make them climate-smart.

The Commission will also facilitate capacity building to equip the staff of LGUs with skills for local adaptation planning, implementation and monitoring of climate change initiatives in their respective areas.

The four LGUs will receive financial assistance as an initial funding of P2.5 million each from Office of the President through the Climate Change Commission. (SDC-PIA 8, E. Samar)

Naval all set for 152nd Pueblo Day celebration

By Ma. Lailani P. Tupaz NAVAL, Biliran, Sept 25 (PIA) -- Activities for the 152nd Pueblo Day celebration in the municipality of Naval are all set on Wednesday, September 26, despite inclement weather.

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aval Mayor Susan V. Parilla of Naval said she is optimistic of a successful celebration.

The 152nd Pueblo Day celebration is the kickoff activity for the town fiesta celebration of Naval, which is held every first Saturday of October in honor of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary.

A holy mass at 6 a.m. at the Cathedral will open the Pueblo Day celebration as a thanksgiving for the creation of the municipality, 152 years ago.

The mass will be followed by a parade around poblacion Naval to be participated by all officials and employees of the Naval

local government and government agencies based in Naval.

A short program to open the other activities will be held at the Naval municipal grounds as well as the inauguration of the Performance Challenge Fund Project (Seal of Good Housekeeping).

Free haircut, body massage, manicure, and pedicure are offered to all.

The three-day agro-industrial trade fair will also open on Pueblo Day to showcase local agricultural products of the residents of Naval. Here at the fair, the local government of Naval supported

the Naval Suman Maker’s Association as its commitment to sustain suman production which is the registered “One Town, One Product” (OTOP) of the municipality.

In recognition of the efforts of all employees and officials who contributed to the making of the municipality of Naval, a night of dining and merrymaking is set at the Naval gymnasium.

With all activities lined up for the Pueblo Day celebration, Mayor Parilla hopes these will be enjoyed by all her constituents. (PIA-Biliran)

Education dept employs 52 volunteers in Eastern Visayas GOVERNMENT CENTER, Palo, Leyte, Sept 20 (PIA) -- In response to the basic learning needs of the increasing number of out-of-school children, youth and adults, the Department of Education employed 52 additional Alternative Learning System (ALS) literacy volunteers in Eastern Visayas.

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he 52 literacy volunteers were assigned in five provinces of the region: five for Eastern Samar, 20 for Leyte, 10 in Northern Samar, 10 in Southern Leyte, and seven for Samar province, Dr. Cresencia Catan of DepEd-8 said.

A literacy volunteer is a professional teacher and a LET passer, a resident of the area where ALS is implemented, must know the local dialect, have good public relations, and must be physically fit.

Relative to the implementation of the ALS Literacy Volunteer program, pursuant to DepEd Order No. 59 series of 2012 entitled “Revised Implementing Guidelines on the Selection and Hiring of the Alternative Learning System Literacy Volunteers,” the Bureau of Alternative Learning System is set to conduct a Basic Training Course for the newly engaged ALS Literacy Volunteers. Dr. Catan said that the training will be on October 15-19 at the Ecotech Center in

Lahug, Cebu City. Said activity aims to provide the newly engaged literacy volunteers with the needed orientation and training on the principles and processes involved in the implementation of ALS Programs, strategies in the delivery of learning interventions, ways to conduct advocacy, and social mobilization and the reporting requirements for monitoring and evaluation, she added. (PIA-8)

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