One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol. 2 Issue 44

Vol 2

Issue 44

In this Issue

DOST-7 partners with NGO in promoting technology, harmonious community

By Amorganda A. Saludar

WESTERN VISAYAS

Igbaras Mayor Vicente Escorpion Jr. (center) receives from Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. (2nd from left) a cheque worth P200,000 to fund the establishment of a teen center at the Igbaras National High School in the municipality of Igbaras during a turnover ceremony held October 23 at the Iloilo Capitol. Along with Escorpion and Defensor are Provincial Population Officer Ramon C. Yee (leftmost); School Principal Agnes Hipalayao and Sangguniang Kabataan Jason Elambre. The teen center project is under the Adolescent Health and Youth Development Program, which is one of the components of the Philippine Population Management Program to empower young people by providing a venue and facility where they can develop their potentials as individuals.

(TVillavert-PIA6)

CEBU CITY, Oct 30 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST-7) inked a memorandum of understanding with the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creations – Integrated Development Center Inc (JPIC-IDCI).

Under the agreement, DOST and JPIC-IDCI agreed to foster cooperation on empowering communities through the application of Science and Technology interventions.

DOST-7 is tasked under the agreement to provide technical support and other necessary assistance relative to the obligation of the JPIC-IDCI. As a non government organization, it aims to transform societies and communities to be economically stable and interdependent,

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

Also CLICK Here…

EASTERN VISAYAS

Philippine Information Agency 8 regional director Olive Tiu (left) talks on the role of PIA to the participants of the seminar on Urinalysis: Maximizing the Use of Basic Tools for Diagnosis and Prevention of Kidney Diseases held at Leyte Park Hotel, Tacloban City. Attending the seminar are municipal health officers from Northern and Eastern Samar. The seminar is a joint activity of the Department of Health, the National Kidney and Transplant Institute and PIA. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Also CLICK Here...

culturally authentic, politically empowered, living in peace, and working for sustainable development. It is also the main goal of the organization to implement programs geared towards empowering communities for sufficiency, protecting women and children through awareness and capacity building, providing quality education for the poor and underprivileged and support the micro-financing for developed enterprises of cooperatives.

Both parties also agreed to craft common projects and seek resources to support these projects.

Stated on the same agreement, DOST will assist the JPIC-IDCI in developing local technology experts and will make available all its facilities and its services to support the activities of the organization. (RMN/AYS-PIA7, Cebu/ DOST )

SLSU to hold 1st Int'l Freshwater Prawn Congress

By Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Oct 27 (PIA) -- The Southern Leyte State University (SLSU)-Bontoc Campus is calling all enthusiasts in the culture of freshwater prawn to submit research papers until November 15 and those who qualify can join the First International Freshwater Prawn Congress slated to be held on January 10-11, 2013 at the municipality of Bontoc.

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

Artists are also welcome for the poster-making Also CLICK Here… contest scheduled on the same Congress.

Grace Mary Reyes, director for Research Development and Extension (RDE) at SLSU-Bontoc said CENTRAL VISAYAS during the cable-TV program Action Center Kapihan sa PIA Wednesday, that so far, individuals and groups within the country and from Vietnam, as well as other Southeast Asian countries have expressed their intention to come.

The general objective of the activity is to contribute to the attainment of the country’s development goal to achieve rapid, inclusive, and sustained economic growth, a goal which is in line with the social contract of President Aquino to the Filipino people, Reyes said. Reyes said that Members of the indigenous peoples (IPs) group in since 2005, SLSU-Bontoc has been conducting researches Negros Oriental registering during a forum held on ulang as a means of profitable livelihood for marginal to mark the observance of National Indigenous Month at the Provincial Convention Center, Dumaguete City. During the forum, Gov. Roel Degamo requested the natives to assist the military in peacekeeping in their respective communities to make Negros Oriental insurgency -free. (LJD/PIA)

Oct. 29 — Nov. 4, 2012

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

farmers and fishermen, and since then, it has extended technical assistance to more than a dozen entrepreneurs all over the province.

SLSU-Bontoc has been recognized as the only prawn hatchery in the entire Visayas region, selling prawn seedlings to interested entrepreneurs at P 1 apiece for their backyard or large=scale prawn farms, she added.

Mary Grace Evangeio, SLSU-Bontoc Planning Officer, encouraged those who are willing to submit research papers and posters to register online at http:// www.facebook.com/groups/freshwaterprawn.congress/.

They can also be contacted through telephone number (053)-382-3121, or cell number 09167601228.

Interested parties may also send queries through email in this address, ulang.slsubc@gmail.com, especially for inquires on details or guidelines for the best paper and posters.

Participants for the two-day Congress will have a registration fee of P 2,400 for local and $100 for foreign entrants, the amount intended to cover meals and snacks for the two-day affair exclusive of hotel accommodation.

(PIA-Southern Leyte)

DOE cites RE’s contribution to energy security

By Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. ILOILO CITY, Oct 29 (PIA6) -- The exploration, development and utilization of renewable energy (RE) sources would help reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuels as well as boost its energy security.

Department of Energy (DOE) Visayas Director Antonio E. Labios said this at the special lecture series on renewable energy and electric power industry held Oct. 25 at the Iloilo City congressional office conference room here, adding that the government hopes to generate nearly 10,000 megawatts of extra energy supply from renewable sources by 2030.

The present installed capacity from renewable energy sources in the country is placed at about 2,300 megawatts.

Another speaker DOE Visayas Energy Resource Development and Utilization Division (DOE-Erdud) Chief Engr. Eduardo L. Amante said although renewable energy is relatively expensive to develop, it is necessary that we have this alternative form of energy in the country to lessen imports and save foreign exchange.

These RE sources include geothermal, hydropower, biomass, biofuels, wind, solar and ocean energy.

Every 600 kilowatts-hour produced by an RE facility can replace a barrel of imported oil costing about US$100.

If the facility can produce 600,000,000 kWh, then the country can save 1 million barrels or US$100 million.

The DOE will also bring the special lecture series to Tacloban City and Cebu City to intensify public awareness

DOE Visayas Field Office Director Antonio E. Labios led the conduct of the special lecture series on renewable energy and electric power industry in Iloilo City, Oct. 25, which was designed to heighten public awareness about the importance of RE and the role of the energy sector in the drive towards inclusive economic growth in the country. (JSC-PIA6)

on government efforts to keep the energy sector as an engine of inclusive economic growth.

Other resource persons at the lecture which was held here in coordination with the Philippine Information Agency-6 were DOE Visayas Senior Science Research Specialist Engr. Aginaldo Briones, NGCP Regional Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Officer Elmer Cruz, Panay Electric Company (PECO) Operation Manager Engr. Randy Pastolero and PEMC Administrative and Settlement Specialist Eleazar Tabigue. JCM/JSC-PIA6)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

Coal tops WV exports in Q2 with US$51-M Visayan spotted dear ((Rusa Rusa alfredi alfredi)) - can only be found in the islands of Panay and Negros

By Lilibeth A. French

ILOILO CITY, Oct 29 (PIA6) -- Western Visayas exported coal worth US$51,066,793.24 million in the second quarter of 2012, according to the National Economic and Development Authority 6.

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EDA 6 Assistant Regional Director Raul Anlocotan said that this made coal being produced in Semirara Island in the province of Antique, as the top export product of the region for the period.

Semirara Mining Corporation, the biggest coal producer in the country, has its mine in Semirara Island. Among the primary customers of the export are China and Thailand.

Anlocotan said during a Round Table Discussion with Media and Information Officers held as part of the 23rd National Statistics Month celebration this October at NEDA 6, Iloilo City that the other top four exports for the 2nd quarter of the region are Philippine Raw Sugar with $33,036,864.55 earnings; crabmeat with $321,986.68; assorted marine products with $283,240.26; and cutfoliages with $27,741.50.

The raw sugar comes mostly from Negros

Occidental and is exported to the USA, China, Korea and Vietnam.

Meanwhile, fertilizer topped the region’s top ten imports for the second quarter of 2012 with P895.696,377 million. This is followed by wheat worth P738, 978,606.00 million, Liquified Petroleum Gas, P187,839,062.89 million and coal at P153,293,470.08, marine salt with P40,943,040.00, steel tower & accessories with P40,121,961.00, Yellow Maize, P37,206,402.30, agricultural feedmill plant for hogs P28,155,142.40, parts for office work station P6,015,957.00, and ships spare parts at P1,912,409.41.

In his report, Anlocotan also noted that exports valued at US$84.75 million during the second quarter decreased by 48.49 percent as compared to the same period in the previous year.

He attributed the decrease in the exportation of coal in bulk due to the increasing demand for local use

especially in power and cement industries. There was also no record of export of molasses and steel scrap from the region.

On the other hand, the imports at P2.135 billion also declined by 36.12 percent as compared to the same period in 2011 because there is no rice import this year and due to the decrease in the importation of wheat and fertilizer.

Aside from Anlocotan, other resource persons during the Round Table Discussion were National Statistics Office 6’s Consuelo Virgula, Department of Labor and Employment 6 Information Officer Amalia Judicpa and NEDA 6’s Engr. Gilberto Altura.

Virgula discussed the Labor and Employment Statistics: Terms and Concept, Judicpa, the NSM celebration theme and DOLE’s development programs and projects and Altura, Regional Competitiveness. (JCM/LAF/PIA6)

Aklan’s product showcase nets P3.9-M

By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, Oct 30 (PIA6) -- The product showcase mounted by Aklan’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the event center of SM City Iloilo from October 22 to 28 netted P3,945,523.75, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.

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he seven-day product showcase, which was an opportunity for Aklan-MSMEs to introduce and market their latest innovative and enhance wearables like piña and abaca blouses, tops, scarves and many others, was spearheaded by the DTI in coordination with the provincial government of Aklan, Hugod Aklanon Producers Association Inc. in partnership with Philexport Aklan Chapter.

Of the four sectors that participated in the showcase, processed food registered the highest sales with P3,200,137.75 in cash and booked orders, DTI records attest.

Other sectors and their respective sales were health and wellness products with P436,130; indigenous fiber and crafts, P303,156; and furniture and furnishings, P6,100 in booked order.

October 26, the fifth day of the showcase and which was a holiday, earned for the 28 participating MSMEs the highest sale during the period, with P2,730,291.75. Guest speaker during the opening program was Roselle Q. Ruiz, the provincial tourism officer who represented Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez. On the other hand, DTI-Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadenza Jr.

acknowledged the guests who graced the opening program composed of Department of Tourism Regional Director Helen Catalbas, Fiber Industry Development Authority OIC Evelyn Cagasan, Richielieu Belicena of Landbank-Iloilo, Department of Labor and Employment Regional Director Ponciano Ligutom, DILG-Aklan Provincial Director John Ace Azarcon, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority-Aklan OIC Perla Guanco, Carmer Ituralde of DTI-Guimaras, Erna Indico of DAR-Iloilo, and DOST-Aklan Provincial Director Jairus Lachica. (JCM/VGV-PIA6, Aklan)

Breakthrough in IPs ancestral domain claim underway

By Margie L. Gadian SAN JOSE, Antique, Oct 29 (PIA6) -- A breakthrough in the Indigenous People’s claim of ancestral domain in the military reservation in both Tapaz and Jamindan, Capiz is underway with a memorandum of understanding (MOU) now up for signing by the Department of National Defense (DND) and National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) at the national level.

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rmy “Bayanihan” Teams will soon join the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) and Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) in the conduct of survey and delineation activities in central Panay Island to address challenges on IPs ancestral domain.

Subject of the claim is a portion in the Army’s 33,100-hectare military reservation occupied by the Third Infantry Division (3ID), which covers 16 of the 22 upland villages of Tapaz and seven villages of Jamindan. This reservation was established in 1962 pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 67 and considered the third largest military camp in the country.

The NCIP-6 and the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division prepared the MOU, with support from Panay Islands ICCs/IPs, said Major Enrico

Gil Ileto, chief of the 3rd Division Public Affairs Office.

The MOU allows both parties to hold activities, which aim to determine the metes and bounds of the ancestral domains of the IPs in Central Panay to avoid overlapping of domain, Ileto said.

Further, the MOU states that findings and recommendations of the committee shall be submitted to higher authorities in the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the NCIP (Commission en banc) and the general assembly of legitimate claimants for appropriate actions concerning the application for a certificate of ancestral domain title by the concerned ICCs/IPs. For the sake of peace, the military is more than willing to vacate portions of the military

reservation provided that it will pass through what is required by law, said Major General Jose Mabanta Jr., 3ID commander.

“This is the realization of our months of continued engagements and collaborations with NCIP, local government units of Tapaz and Jamindan, ICCs/IPs and other stakeholders to resolve the issue on ancestral domain. This convergence of effort exemplifies our inherent culture of bayanihan,” Mabanta said.

This month of October, the NCIP is commemorating the 15th Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) anniversary with the theme, “IPRA ay Gabay sa Kaunlaran, Isaisip, Ipabatid at Isakatuparan.” (3rdDPAO/MLG/PIA6Antique)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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Gawad Pamana inspires LGUs for better governance Visayan spotted dear ((Rusa Rusa alfredi alfredi)) - can only be found in the islands of Panay and Negros

By Lilibeth A. French

ILOILO CITY, Oct 29 (PIA6) -- The Gawad Pamana ng Lahi being implemented by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) inspires local chief executives in this region to work harder in implementing good governance.

“

It is tiring to tread the path of good governance in a town, but for us, Anilao residents, this is really a pride, an inspiration that our hard work, cooperation and unity bear fruits,” said Anilao Mayor Ma. Theresa Debuque who is also the president of the League of Municipalities-Iloilo Chapter when asked on how she feels after her town emerged as the 2012 Gawad Pamana ng Lahi winner in Western Visayas for the municipal category.

A consistent best performing local government unit (LGU) for the fourth to sixth-class municipality for three consecutive years, Anilao was also recognized as a Hall of Fame awardee in the 2011 Excell Awards.

It also received a special award for Excellence in Local Legislation during last year’s Excell.

The town is also a Red Orchid Awardee for getting a perfect score or 100 percent in 2011 search.

Red Orchid, is an award given by the Department of Health to government hospitals, government offices, and local government units that implement tobacco-free environment.

Among the pioneering innovations of Anilao is its customized software of financial management information system that continues to be an effective tool for updated, timely, and reliable financial information.

Another is its Manual for Transparency and Fast Delivery of Services, other name for its Citizen’s Charter, a guide in getting efficient and speedy services offered by the LGU and guarantees the performance

level in every aspect of services. Also, barangays of the towns have installed desks to cater to complaints, queries, and recommendations of barangay constituents to support transparency and accountability.

The GPL award comes with a P1 million prize, which Debuque said, they will use for the on-going construction of their market.

The land where the market is being constructed was bought from cash they received as Seal of Good Housekeeping recipient.

Aside from the municipality of Anilao, the city of Iloilo and the province of Negros Occidental were also presented with this year’s Regional Gawad Pamana ng Lahi as top winners in the city and provincial categories during a program held at the Rose Memorial Hall of Central Philippine University, Iloilo City on October 25 that capped the 21st LGC anniversary celebration.

Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said he is very happy for the city and the city government team that includes the department heads and employees as their efforts paid off to give good governance to the people.

“It is through this recognition that we are inspired and motivated to work harder, to make things better and to bring positive improvement in our governance,” said Mabilog.

Iloilo City has been able to develop comprehensive and strategic plans, strengthen its partnership with the private sector and strictly enforce relevant ordinances

despite the occasional obstacles to fulfill its mission and vision to provide every Ilonggo a better and secure.

The city’s endeavors were not also left unnoticed as shown by the various praises and recognition it received from international award giving bodies such as from the international awards for Livable Communities in Chicago, Illinois, USA and the Palladium Balanced Scorecard Hall of Fame.

Last year, Iloilo City was also recipient of the Red Orchid Award and Excell Administrative Governance Award and Gawad Pamana ng Lahi, all from the DILG. The GPL award comes with a P2 million check for the city category winner and this will be used for the improvement of the drainage system of the city, Mabilog said.

The awarding program was graced by newly-appointed DILG UnderSectary Francsico Fernandez and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit’s Dr. Herwig Mayer.

The three winners automatically become finalists in the Gawad National award which was established to recognize the exemplary performance of the LGUs in administrative governance, social governance, economic governance and environmental governance.

It is also an instrument to scale up the valuing of accountability, transparency and inclusivity in local governance and administration. (JCM/LAF-PIA6)

Bacolod pilot area for community-based juvenile intervention program

By Lorenzo O. Lambatin Jr. BACOLOD CITY, Oct 29 (PIA6) -- The Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council (JJWC) chose Bacolod City to be one of the few model local areas for the pilot implementation of the Localization of the Comprehensive National Juvenile Intervention Program.

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he program aims to develop community-based programs for intervention, diversion, and rehabilitation; development of new social technologies; and enhancement of existing programs and strategies, in handling children in conflict with the law (CICLs), a statement from the Bacolod City information office said.

“We are honored that Bacolod City has been identified by the JJWC as one of the possible model areas for the implementation of this program. As a consistent Child-Friendly

City National Awardee, we believe there is still much to be learned and much to be done,” Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia said.

For many years now, Bacolod City has been a consistent nationalist finalist in the Presidential Search for the Most Child-Friendly City of the Philippines, after also getting continuously the Region 6 awards.

The city government of Bacolod has embarked on a people’s public partnership project for the construction of a larger Social Development Center that will house CICLs

through the Bacolod City Community Development Consortium created by an executive order issued by the mayor.

This project is the outcome of Bacolod City’s inclusion in the Partnership for Democratic Local Governance in Southeast Asia’s (Delgosea) replication of best practices in local governance in Southeast Asia.

Bacolod is the only city in the Philippines to be included in this program funded by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung and the European Union. (Bacolod City PIO/PIA6)

BFP tells Capiceños to use candles with care

by Alex A. Lumaque ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Oct. 30 (PIA6) -- The Office of the Fire Marshal of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Roxas City has called on Capiceños to take extra precautions on using candles this All Souls as well as All Saints Day celebration.

“

Candles are not toys for children and must not be left burning unattended,” said BFP – Roxas Public Information Officer FO2 Marlon Garbo.

Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets and never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire like books, curtains, gasoline, he added.

It is also important to place the candleholder on a stable and heat-resistant surface to avoid a candlerelated fire incident which razed a house

in Brgy. Talon here a few years ago.

Garbo stressed that the firemen will also conduct surprise inspections on terminals, airport, funeral homes and other public places in addition to fire truck visibility activity as part of the firemen’s proactive measures to ensure a fire-free Halloween celebration.

A fire truck with Public Address System has been deployed around the city giving announcement on fire safety reminders since Oct. 29.

“BFP is not only about firefighting but we are also mandated to render emergency medical services to save lives,” he stressed, adding that an Emergency Medical Service (EMS) staff will be positioned by the BFP at Barangay Banica Cemetery starting Oct. 31. The EMS team is composed of eight firemen who are also registered nurses and physical therapists by profession who will respond to the public’s emergency health needs at the cemetery. (JCM/AAL/PIA6 Capiz)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Dumaguete Coast Guard sets up assistance centers for the holidays

Philippine Tarsier ((Carlito Carlito syrichta syrichta)) - is is commonly commonly be be found found in in the the island island of of Bohol Bohol

By Rachelle M. Nessia DUMAGUETE CITY, Oct 30 (PIA) -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Dumaguete Station has put up passenger assistance centers in identified seaports in the province in view of the expected heavy passenger traffic for the holidays this week.

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he centers had been put up since October 26 in three major seaports here, namely, Dumaguete port terminal, Sibulan port, and Tandayag port.

"The passenger assistance centers will serve as a help desk to respond to the inquiries and needs of our passengers in the ports, in relation to their travel," said PCG Dumaguete Acting Station

Commander Senior Chief Petty Officer Nelson Simbajon.

The centers are manned by a composite team of personnel from PCG, Philippine Ports Authority, Maritime Police, and the Coast Guard Auxilliary, Simbajon said.

Tight security measures have already been in place within the port areas.

To avoid delays and hassles, Simbajon also advised sea vessel passengers to refrain

from bringing with them items that are on the restricted cargoes list, such as flammable liquids and solids, corrosive materials, toxic and infectious substances, compressed gasses and radioactive materials and explosives.

Simbajon said baggages with suspicious cargo will be put aside for their K-9 team to check for any explosive devices. (RMN-PIA7 Negros Oriental)

TEN Moves campaign launched in Negros Oriental

By Rachelle M. Nessia DUMAGUETE CITY, Oct 29 (PIA) -- Negros Oriental has joined the roster of local governments that partnered with the The Entire Nation Moves (TEN Moves!) campaign to help the government address the classroom gap in the country. he TEN Moves campaign was quality education. The provincial 10 months to help build the officially launched in the province government has built more than 40 construction of 10,000 classrooms under on Oct. 26 at the Negros classrooms and plans to build 30 more TEN Moves.

As of September this year, a total of Oriental Convention Center. Around 500 under its partnership with TEN Moves. teachers, students, and representatives Ayala Foundation Senior Director 2,897 classrooms have been pledged for from local government units attended the Mario Deriquito said the campaign is an Bayanihang Pampaaralan, the mother event. opportunity to showcase the power of campaign of TEN Moves. Of the Gov. Roel Degamo said the provincial unity across organizations, generations, total, some 1,126 classrooms have been built. government’s partnership with TEN and cities.

To date, over P18 million in donations Moves is an affirmation of Negros Ayala Foundation is one of the and pledged have been raised for the Oriental’s commitment to closing the primary movers of said campaign. classroom gap while developing young Under the campaign, donors are classrooms, according to a statement from leaders who will continue working for encouraged to donate P300 a month for the TEN Moves campaign.

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AFP–PA Reserve Command initiates move to intensify academe link CEBU CITY, Oct 29 (PIA) -- The 7th Regional Community Defense Group–Army Reserve Command base in Cebu City is set to boost the link and coordination of the forces with the academe here.

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eputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retirees Affairs Major General Marlou Salazar along with the 701st (Cebu) Community Defense Center, 7th Regional Community Defense Group, Army Reserve in Lahug Cebu City met with officials from colleges and universities here in the city on October 26 at DepEd , Ecotech Center, Lahug.

The same meeting was also attended

by Reserve Officer Training Corps

(ROTC) alumni and National Service Training Program (NSTP) coordinators.

Officer-in-charge of the Philippine Army, Lieutenant Colonel Leandro Mayop said the main purpose of the meeting is to gather update, enhance, and support ROTC program advocacy.

The Army Reserve Command has been supportive in the advocacy to train students in a military type of discipline, behavior and practice, gesture and the best and proper way of reaching to the public and community.

In CWTS, students are trained to be more attached to the community but still in a military type of discipline and practice by conducting, participating and organizing civic welfare activities or any other related practices that are essential to oneself and the community.

ROTC, meanwhile, trains students to be part of the military by instilling in their minds the proper discipline, love of country, and community. (AYS-PIA 7, Cebu with PA PR)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

Philippine Tarsier ((Carlito Carlito syrichta syrichta)) - is is commonly commonly be be found found in in the the island island of of Bohol Bohol

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Ubay Agro Forest maintains 1-hectare coffee plantations

By Hazel F. Gloria

CEBU CITY, Oct 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 7 with the Ubay Federated Tree Planters Association Inc. (UFTPAI) has maintained a 1-hectare coffee plantation with 1,500 seedlings within the 16-hectare forest land in San Pascual, Ubay, Bohol. he project is in line with the DENR 7 regional executive Director Bohol has planted around 7,542 native and D E N R A g r o F o r e s t r y Dr. Isabelo Montejo said that aside from agro forestry seedlings covering 38.6 Development Project with the promoting the sustainability of the model hectares within its mining contract area. help of UFTAI aims to benefit the forest, the project also intends to improve In support to the NGP, the Vice communities consistent to the objectives the socio-economic conditions of the Mayor League of Bohol will sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to of the National Greening Program (NGP). people living within the watershed.

The San Pascual Agro Forest in Ubay In a related development, the contribute P100,000 to the UFTPAI that is part of the 20,749-hectare inside the Philippine Mining Service Corporation will be used to provide additional seedCarood Watershed Model Forest (PMSC) with Bohol Limestone lings for possible expansion of the coffee (CWMF).

Corporation (BLC) in Garcia-Hernandez, plantation. (HFG/PIA-7/DENR-7)

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DENR-7 to reforest more than 8T hectares

By Hazel F. Gloria CEBU CITY, Oct 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 7 plans to reforest some 8,143 hectares in four provinces in Central Visayas before November ends. This activity is part of the National Greening Program (NGP).

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ENR alre a dy ref ore s ted 3,911.20 hectares or 48 percent of its target in an effort to bring back the lost forest cover of the country.

DENR 7 Regional Executive Director Dr. Isabelo Montejo said the remaining 52 percent or equivalent to 4,231.80 hectares will be completed by November 30.

Of the total hectares already carried out as of October 22, Negros Oriental registered the highest with 56 percent of its 2,262-hectare target or 1,260 hectares; Cebu came in second with 1,864.30 hectares which is 48 percent of its 3,896-hectare goal; Bohol obtained 45

percent of this year’s target of 1,667 hectares or 757.10 hectares; and Siquijor with nine percent of 318 hectares.

Specifically, DENR Secretary Ramon JP Paje said the aim is to plant 1.5 billion trees in some 1.5 million hectares from 2011 to 2016, which is more than twice the government’s accomplishment of 730,000 hectares for the past 25 years.

With an average of 141 hectares to be covered per day until November 30, Montejo expressed confidence to finish the objective of reforesting 4,231.80 hectares by deploying and augmenting its personnel in the field.

Meanwhile, Forest Management Services (FMS) Regional Technical Director Eduardo M. Inting said a catch up program has been defined to identify strategies and measures to achieve this year’s objective.

Among the areas targeted for planting under the program are forestlands, mangrove and protected areas, ancestral domains, civil and military reservations, urban area under the greening plan of local government units, inactive and abandoned mines and other suitable lands. HFG/PIA-7/DENR-7)

DAR secretary visits Negros Oriental

By Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, Oct 30 (PIA) -- Department of Agrarian of Reform (DAR) Secretary Virgilio De Los Reyes visited Negros Oriental last week for a one-day activity with local government units (LGU) of Bayawan and Canlaon cities.

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oth the secretary and Mayor Rene Gaudiel of Bayawan signed the agreement which sealed the partnership to conduct a survey of subdivisions in government-owned lands to help improve the collection of taxes.

The LGU of Bayawan will conduct the subdivision survey and DAR will facilitate the endorsement of subdivision plans for the approval by Department of Environment of Natural Resources and

the issuance of individual Certificate of Land Ownership to farmer beneficiaries. Following the signing of agreement in Bayawan, De Los Reyes presented an award to Philippine National Police and Philippine Army personnel in Dumaguete City in recognition of the support they extended during the peaceful farmer beneficiaries installation in Polo Coconut Plantation Inc. in Tanjay City. Another highlight of the visit was the

inauguration of the cooperative village level-processing center of Rama Rodriguez (Ramrod) Multipurpose Cooperative in Canlaon City.

The first in Region 7, Ramrod multi-purpose cooperative is managed by DAR’s farmer beneficiaries.

Some of the products of the co-op are carrot and peanut cookies, peanut butter, carrot juice, and turmeric powder. (mbcn/JCT-PIA7 Negros Oriental)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Two young Eastern Samarnons’ encounter with Indonesian President, Queen Visayan Broadbill ((Eurylaimus Eurylaimus samarensis samarensis)) - is endemic to Eastern Visayas

By Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Oct 28 (PIA) -- Two children from Eastern Samar, Philippines had the rare chance of discussing disaster risk reduction and climate change with the Indonesian President and Queen in Yogyakarta, Indonesia during the 5th Asian Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Yogya Expo Center on October 23-25 at Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

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he two children, Mark, 14-years old from Oras, Eastern Samar and Thania, 16 years old from Llorente, Eastern Samar were among the 18 children representatives from Indonesia, Cambodia, Philippines, Japan who attended the Conference and the Side Event on Children’s Participation in Safe school and Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) on October 24.

Mark presented the Child-centred Disaster Risk Reduction activities he actively engaged in at their town with the help of Plan International, a development organization with programs for children.

Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono asked Mark about his personal experiences during disasters and the activities undertaken by the community to increase their resilience.

Mark also underscored that disaster is aggravating the problem related to trafficking to the affected areas. He handed the president a copy of the Children’s Charter for Disaster Risk Reduction.

At the Side Event on Children’s Participation in Safe school and Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) on October 24, Mark emphasized to Margareta Walstrom, head of the Geneva-based United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR), the principle of child protection in schools and that education must not be interrupted as a result of disasters.

Meanwhile, Thania, Mark and the other 16 children from the AsiaPacific countries who attended the confer-

ence were very happy to meet the Queen of Yogyakarta Gusti Kanjeng Ratu Hemas.

“It’s important to exchange information and share knowledge among children and between children and adults so we as adults will continuously listen to and respect children’s voice in DRR,” GKR Hemas told the children.

The young Eastern Samarnons had an advantage as they are the only children participants who can speak English, Plan’s Sandee Saavedra and Baltz Tribunalo said.

As of this writing, the children are still in Indonesia, Mr. Tootch dela Cruz of Plan Philippines in the Visayas said.

The travel of the children to Indonesia was made possible by Plan Philippines in the Visayas under the stewardship of Mr. Rodel Bontuyan. (PIA8)

FDA gives quality of seal awards to 15 drugstores in EVisayas

By Aurora J. Casimpan TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Oct 26 (PIA) -- The Food and Drug Administration recognized drugstores rendering quality services to the public through the giving of a quality of seal award in celebration of the 29th anniversary of the Generics Act of 1988.

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n Eastern Visayas, 15 drugstores across the region received the quality of seal award.

The Food and Drug Regulatory Officers (FDRO) sets the criteria for the selection which includes the identification of the drugstore and its existence for at least two years and history of continuous compliance to FDA laws. In addition, the

FDRO conducts area evaluation and rates the criteria of human resources with 30%, compliance of FDA laws, rules and regulation (RA 6675 or the Generics Act, RA 5921 or the pharmacy law) also with 30%.

The evaluated drugstores which qualified and garnered 75% and above ratings were given the quality of seal

award. FDA assistant regional director Minerva Molo said that the seal of quality award is an assurance that the drugstores are selling quality products.

It is also a reminder for pharmaceutical establishments to continue with the good practice and to strive even better. (PIA-8)

DAR constructs Basey’s P36-M all-weather road

By Ninfa Iluminda B. Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Oct 27 (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Samar has started constructing the P36 million all-weather road in Barangay Cogon, Basey to service agrarian reform communities in barangays Cogon, Cancaiyas, and Villa Aurora.

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his was learned from Basey Municipal Planning and development Office (MPDO) Manuel Orejole, in an interview, Thursday.

The 5.9-kilometer (km) stretch of road is also part of government’s effort to reach the more remote farming

communities in Samar. “This extends to some more kilometer stretch to our existing roads under the agriculture’s Infrastructure for Productivity Enhancement Sector(InfRES) Project,” said Orejole. Basey, he said is a promising agricultural town with 10 thousand

hectares of potential farm area and is near the regional growth center of Tacloban City.

Bernardino Bacurio of DAR-Samar with Municipal Agrarian reform Officer Chito dela Torre went to the site for the groundbreaking Wednesday. (PIA-Samar)

EASTERN VISAYAS

Visayan Broadbill ((Eurylaimus Eurylaimus samarensis samarensis)) - is endemic to Eastern Visayas

7

2nd EV Open Kayak Marathon race at Kalanggaman Island beckons

By Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu

PALOMPON, Leyte, Oct 29 (PIA) -- An event to look forward to during the upcoming long weekend is the Second Open Invitational 15 kilometer Kayak Marathon race in Eastern Visayas which the Local Government of Palompon, Leyte will host on November 3 at the enchanting Kalanggaman Island which is fast becoming a major tourist destination in Leyte.

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he kayak marathon which aims to promote camaraderie, environmental protection through eco-water sports intervention, encourage beyond border tourism, and appreciate the beauty of local culture and history, is being organized by the Palompon Municipal Eco-tourism Council Incorporated (PMET Inc.) and North West Leyte Tourism Alliance in collaboration with the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).

It is supported by the Department of Tourism, government unit of Leyte, 4th District Congressional Office, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard and various entrepreneurs, business

groups and civic organizations from the private sector. The grand kayak race will be participated in by 30 pairs of kayak aficionados who are required to wear their assigned numbers and life vests during the race.

The race will start at 6 a.m. sharp from Kalanggaman Island going to Palompon Port. Cash prize of P15, 000 with trophy will be given as first prize; P10,000 plus trophy to the second prize, 7,000 with trophy for the third prize; P5,000 with trophy for the fourth prize and P500 plus freebies for the 10 consolation prizes.

Palompon is a second-class municipality in Leyte with 50 barangays.

Kalanggamanan Island, on the other hand,

is a 5.4-hectare island located northwest of Palompon. Politically, it is a sitio of Barangay Tinabilan, this municipality.

The main attraction of this eco-tourism site is the island itself because of its white sand beach and magnificent sand bars. It offers wide arrays of eco-tourism activities such as snorkeling, swimming, sun bathing, and SCUBA diving.

The island has open cottages, restrooms and dressing rooms and admirable camping area for those who opt to stay overnight and has a physical carrying capacity of 1,200 persons/day.

(PIA-8)

Borongan City signs joint declaration with Army for manageable conflict

By Alicia E. Nicart BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Oct 29 (PIA) -- The mayor of Borongan City recently signed the Joint Declaration for Manageable Conflict-Affected and Development Ready City.

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ayor Ma. Fe Abunda signed the declaration with Colonel Romeo Labador, brigade commander of the Philippine Army based in Barangay Fatima, Hinabangan, Samar.

Abuda appealed for stakeholders’ continued support in maintaining peace in the city.

She cited the soon-to-be constructed million-dollar worth road project which

will also pass through Borongan all the way to the southernmost town of Guiuan.

Labador congratulated the people of Borongan for the present peace and order condition which, he said, is truly different 10 years ago when he was still a young army captain.

Labador said they came for the joint signing of the declaration because, after a series of assessment with an instrument

used, they were able to confirm that Borongan is ready to develop its tourist potentials in order that it gains more economic advancement.

The Philippine Army soldiers will not leave the area and the group will always be ready to support Borongan City, Labador said. (PIA-Eastern Samar)

Leyte province to host Batang Pinoy 2012 Visayas Leg

By Neil D. Lopido TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Oct 28 (PIA) -- The Provincial Government of Leyte will be hosting the 2012 Batang Pinoy Visayas Elimination on November 21-24 at the Leyte Sports Development Center, this city.

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atang Pinoy was conceptualized as a national grassroots sports development program for children 15 years old and below as a selection base for potential high performing athletes as specified in Executive Order No. 44 otherwise known as the Philippine National Youth Games.

Ms. Annie Ruiz, Batang Pinoy coordinator, said the qualifying sports are arnis, athletics, badminton, boxing, chess, karatedo, lawn tennis, swimming, taekwondo and table tennis. Ruiz said that the national finals for dancesports,

weightlifting and softball (girls) will be held also during the Visayas Leg. These sports, Ruiz said, are considered qualifying sports which means that from the National Capital Region (NCR) Leg down to Visayas Leg they will be included. Gold and silver medalists in the qualifying legs will earn slot for the National Championship which will be held in Iloilo on December 5-8.

Aimed to identify pool of young talents, Batang Pinoy will break the status of our national team which has been observed to remain the same, Ruiz said.

Batang Pinoy was conceptualized in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission, Department of Education, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Leagues of Provincies/Cities/ Municipalities/Barangays, Philippine Olympic Committee, both Non-Government entities and internationally recognized authorities in different sports which manages and oversee the technical component of this event. (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