One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 3 Issue 17

Vol 3

Issue 17

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Fiberfest Ribbon-Cutting. Department of Trade and Industry - Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadena, Jr., (extreme left), adjusts a portion of the ribbon about to be cut by Mrs. Elizabeth Marquez (3rd from left), wife of Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez (2nd from left).

Others in photo are Rose Nepomuceno and Amelia Rentillo of Hugod Aklanon and Aklan Representative Florencio T. Miraflores and Kasangga Partylist Rep. Teodorico Haresco.

(PIA/VGVillanueva)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

Also CLICK Here…

CENTRAL VISAYAS

President Benigno S. Aquino III lowering the time capsule in Brgy. Ibo, Lapu-lapu City, marking the groundbreaking ceremony for the widening of the Mactan Island Circumferential Road project costing around P3.7 billion. PNoy is assisted by DILG Secretary Mar Roxas (left) and DPWH Undersecretary Romeo Momo (2nd from right).

(VVV/PIA Cebu)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

Also CLICK Here…

EASTERN VISAYAS

Rural folks savor the beginning construction of the P14 M Payapa ta Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) project aimed to make the roads concrete for San Jose de Buan folks and all other barangays of Motiong and Paranas towns located in the road to San Jose de Buan, the road project is a dream come true for this remote town located some 34 kilometers away from the national highway. (PIA8-Samar/OPAPP)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Also CLICK Here...

April 22 - 28, 2013

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Saint Bernard is nominee for UN Sasakawa Award 2013

By Rebecca S. Cadavos SOUTHERN LEYTE, April 25 (PIA) -- The municipality of Saint Bernard, this province is one of the nominees for this year’s Sasakawa Award 2013 initiated by the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR), Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) Public Information Committee Chair Rosalinda Jane Araneta said.

“The UNISDR recognized the nomination which is supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), placing Saint Bernard once again in the international spotlight,” Araneta disclosed.

The Rockhopper TV based in the United Kingdom, one of the world’s most popular documentary makers traveled to Saint Bernard relative to the UNISDR’s Sasakawa Award nominees, she said in a press statement.

The Rockhopper TV was headed by Lucille Sodipe, Araneta added. She interviewed Saint Bernard

Mayor Rico Rentuza who gave importance of “Acting As One” by practicing participatory community-based approach, good governance, political will and strengthening public-private partnerships.

Araneta recalled that Saint Bernard has been a recipient of various awards including disaster risk reduction programs.

Araneta acknowledged various non-government orgs that continue to work together as partners with LGU-Saint Bernard such as GIZ, ACCORD, CARE, Gawad Kalinga, Plan International, Habitat for Humanity, JICA, the Red Cross, to name a few.

The prestigious 2013 UN Sasakawa Award for Disaster Reduction is made possible by an endowment from the Nippon Foundation of Japan, Araneta said.

The winner will be announced during the Fourth Global Platform for DRR in Geneva, Switzerland.

(PIA-Southern Leyte)

Regional issues, concerns, tackled in PDP updating By: Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, April 25 (PIA6) – Various concerns and interventions were tackled in the consultation workshops held to update the Philippine Development Plan.

The workshops were participated in by over 160 representatives from the national line agencies, government financial institutions, police and the military, civil society and the academe.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) initiated the updating workshops to enhance the indicators that would serve as basis for tracking performance.

NEDA-6 Information Officer Cynthia Lumampao said the updated national and regional development plans will serve as reference of the Aquino administration in accelerating the economic growth of the country.

The participants worked on the different chapters of the PDP in separate workshop groups, namely: Economic Development, Infrastructure Development, Peace and Security, Good Governance and Rule of Law, Human Development and Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation.

The workshops were facilitated by resource persons from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Usec Luisito Montalbo; Usec. Manuel Gerochi, DENR; Asec Jesus Mateo, DepEd; Director Monica Pagunsan, Department of Justice; OIC Director Milagros Say, Department of Tourism; and Kathreen Miralles, NEDA-Infra staff.

NEDA said the updating of the PDP is mandated for the agency to lead in the initiatives based on President Aquino’s Memo Circular No. 43, dated February 4, 2013. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

PNoy says widening of MICR to further boost Cebu ’s image as tourist, biz haven

By Fayette C. Riñen CEBU CITY (PIA) – President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III said Cebu will further enhance its image as a tourist and investment destination with the widening of the Mactan Island Circumferential Road (MICR). The President led the groundbreaking ceremony last Friday.

Aquino in his 15-minute speech before a more than 200 crowd said the widening of the MICR opens additional opportunities for the Cebuanos in tourism and investments as the widening of the 26.3 kilometer MICR stretch can ease traffic and cut travel time by 15 minutes from Cebu City to Mactan Island.

Putting investments at the Mactan Economic Zone also becomes a worthy endeavor as transport of products and services is more accessible, added the President.

The President also took the opportunity to highlight his administration’s accomplishments in domestic tourist arrivals having surpassed its 2016 target of 35 million tourists by 2016.

“Domestic tourist arrivals sa una po nating target 35 million per year. Ang nagawa na po natin ng 2011 ay 37 million domestic tourists. Ang target po sa 2016, 35 million tourists. So lumampas na po tayo doon sa target,” Aquino proudly reported.

The President said the government’s new target in domestic tourist arrivals is now 56 million by 2016 as volume of domestic tourists sharply increases bringing new jobs to the country.

The MICR aims to provide easy access from the Mactan International Airport to the various world-class resorts and other tourist destinations in Mactan Island .

Total cost of the project is P3.72 billion including road right of way acquisition. Of the amount, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has

President Benigno S. Aquino III giving an inspirational message during the groundbreaking of the widening of the Mactan Island Circumferential road project in Lapu-lapu City, Cebu on April 19.

Photo also shows (from R-L, seated): DPWH Usec. Romeo Momo, Energy Sec. Jericho Petilla, and DILG Sec. Mar Roxas. (VVV/PIA Cebu)

poured P300 million for the construction of a 2.15 km four-lane asphalt pavement.

Another P113 million will be sourced from the Department of Tourism-DPWH Convergence Program and the remaining P3.31 billion to complete the four-lane road will be considered in the DPWH 2014 budget and succeeding budgets or will be sourced from any available funds.

Aquino said the DPWH initiatives in transparency have resulted in P16.35 billion saving for the agency.

DPWH Usec Romeo Momo added that for Region 7, the DPWH Regional Office likewise had a total savings of P437 million in 2013. (PIA7)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

Aklan opens 57th anniversary with piña, fiber fest

Cabin Reef Marine Sanctuary, Sagay City

By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, April 24 (PIA) -- The formal opening of the 14th Piña and Fiber Festival and the Agri-Industrial Fair at the Provincial Capitol Grounds on April 22 officially kicked-off this year’s celebration of Aklan’s 57th anniversary as a separate province from Capiz. he Piña and Fiber Festival, with showcasing its various uses and Product (OTOP) program along with their venue at the Trade Hall, and the applications too. other respective agricultural and industrial Agri-Industrial Fair at the In his message at the opening of the produce.

Provincial Capitol Grounds will be open Fiberfest, Aklan Governor Carlito The exhibits start daily from April to the public from April 22-30, 2013 as Marquez said the abaca industry in the 22-30 from 9 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. two of the major activities of the province, raised on 4,000 hectares of land From 6:00 p.m., food lovers and province in the celebration of its 57th in various municipalities here, have earned music enthusiasts will then be treated and anniversary. millions for abaca farmers and at the same entertained nightly during the same dates Joining this year’s showcase are 55 time provided employment to 8,000 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds through exhibitors featuring piña wearables and Aklanons. the “Tsibugan Sa Kapitolyo”, a high fashion apparels, gifts and Meanwhile, besides the 55 exhibitors counterpart project of the Philippine housewares, furniture and furnishings, and composed of Small and Medium Chamber of Commerce and Industry a g r i - a n d a q u a - b a s e d p r o c e s s e d Enterprises (SMEs), Aklan’s 17 (PCCI) Aklan Chapter. (JCM/VGV PIA 6 foods. Abaca will be featured in the municipalities will also be exhibiting their Aklan) Fiberfest as an emerging industry sector products under the One Town, One

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DSWD6 intensifies “Bawal Ang EPAL dito” drive

By Lilibeth A. French ILOILO CITY, April 24 (PIA) - - The Department of Social Welfare and Development 6 (DSWD 6) is intensifying its “Bawal Ang EPAL dito” information campaign. The main message is that only the DSWD can delist a beneficiary from the Pantawid Pamilya Pilipino program.

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SWD 6 Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre said they will come up with radio and TV plugs aside from the tarpaulins which are hung at the municipalities emphasizing the message during the meeting of the Regional Sub Committee for the Welfare of Children 6 held here in Iloilo City, April 23, 2013.

“Bawal Ang EPAL dito” was launched

by DSWD to insulate the programs and activities of the department, especially the Pantawid Pamilya Pilipino program from being taken advantaged of during the

election campaign period. It also seeks to increase the awareness of the public on the correct information on the selection and delisting of the beneficiaries from the program.

She told RSCWC 6 members that if there are still local officials who use the program to boost their campaign they could inform the DSWD and better still if the report will be backed up by evidence for speedy action.

She further said that they have already received complaints with evidence

such as letters addressed individually to the Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries coming from politicians and were already sent to their Central Office in Manila.

The complaints will be given to Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas through Secretary Dinky Soliman and as agreed, the former will call the attention of the erring local officials because the DSWD has no police power over the LGUs.. (JCM/LAF/PIA6)

Musical play to heighten voters' education on elections By: Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, April 24 (PIA) --- The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) here staged a musical play dubbed “Rizal: Senador” to educate voters for the upcoming midterm polls.

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PCRV Archdiocesan Coordinator Msgr. Meliton Oso said that the musical presentation is a unique way to intensify their voters’ education campaign.

The musical presentation portrays some of the known heroes in Philippine history highlighting Dr. Jose Rizal, the

country’s national hero who embodies the qualities of an ideal senator.

The PPCRV said that it is the goal of the play to make the electorate discern the qualities of political candidates and elect those who truly deserve government posts.

The musical play was written and directed by Prof. Alfredo B. Diaz featuring the University of the Philippines Visayas Alumni Community Theatre (UPV ACT).

It was staged at the UPV Auditorium.

(JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

WESTERN VISAYAS

Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan

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Capiz PNP undertakes 4,094 checkpoints

by Alex A. Lumaque

ROXAS CITY, Capiz, April 25 (PIA6) – About 4,094 checkpoints have been conducted by the police authorities province wide since Jan. 13 to April 19 in view of the May 13, 2013 national and local elections. he checkpoints and other police The meeting was presided by (PRO) – 6 will be distributed equally to operations nabbed 21 gun ban COMELEC Provincial Election Supervisor meet the required ratio of two policemen violators who have been arrested and PJSCC Chairperson lawyer Elizabeth per polling center. and charged in court.

D. Doronila, Cabillan and Capt. Joselito “Special Action Force (SAF) troopers This was among the accomplishments Dalida who represented 61st IB will be utilized as Quick Reaction Force in of the Capiz Police Provincial Office commander Christopher Sab-it. high risk police stations.

(CPPO) presented by CPPO Operations Doronila said that proper The deployment plan will be finalized Officer Police Insp. Niño Leonard Amar coordination in the transportation of and presented for the next conference,” during the second Provincial Joint Security Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) he explained.

Coordinating Center (PJSCC) meeting last machines to the municipalities will be The campaign was highlighted by the week. made to secure the units and other local candidates peace covenant signing The 61st Infantry Batallion of the election paraphernalia. that was successfully completed Philippine Army also presented its With regard to the PNP deployment, provincewide last month. (JCM/AAL/PIA 6 accomplishments in the implementation of Cabillan said that the augmentation Capiz) COMELEC Resolutions and election laws. personnel from the Police Regional Office

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Farmers’ groups get P.885M incentive from NFA By: Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique April 25 (PIA) – Farmer’s organization (FOs) play an important role in the palay procurement of the National Food Authority. ccording to Hedy Jardeleza, Like the farmers’ organization in Brgy. be achieved during harvest season in Manager of NFA Antique, FOs Egana, Sibalom, Antique where they got September and October for first cropping delivered 35 percent of last year’s almost P200,000 CDIF. while November and December for procurement target of NFA Antique while They used the fund to buy fertilizer 2nd cropping. the remaining 65 percent were supplied by and sell it to members at a subsidized Farmer leaders during their meeting individual farmers. cost, shared Jardeleza. recently held at NFA Office in San Jose Farmers’ organization have So far, as of March 2013, NFA has committed the support of their collectively availed of P855,442.72 Coop bought a total of 45,847 kilos of palay or organization to the procurement program Development Incentive Fee (CDIF) from about 25 percent of this year’s of NFA. NFA in 2012, disclosed Jardeleza. procurement target of 180,000 kilos.

Aside from the CIF that they could CDIF is derived from every kilo of Just like last year where NFA Antique gain, they can also help in attaining the rice palay sold by registered FOs to NFA at has accomplished 106 percent of its buffer stock of the province. (JCM/PSM/ P.20 per kilo over and above the P17.00 target, Jardeleza is optimistic that PIA6Antique) per kilo buying price of palay, she added. procurement target for the province will

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Army unit bags outstanding award for animal dispersal program

By Easter Anne D. Doza NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, April 24 (PIA) -- The Charlie Company of the 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army based in Brgy. Carabalan, Negros Occidental was awarded as Outstanding Animal Raiser for Public- Private Partnership- Peace Advocate Partner.

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Lt. Jimrhic Obias, the Company Commander, received the trophy and P10,000 cash prize from Gov. Alfredo Maranon Jr. during the awarding ceremony of the “Pasidungog sa mga Manugsagod sang Kasapatan 2013” (Recognition of Animal Raisers) held at the Panaad Park and Stadium as part of the Panaad sa Negros Festival.

Panaad is a Hiligaynon term which means a promise or vow which is considered the festival of festivals in the province.

Twenty other individuals and organizations won the awards in various categories for their outstanding contribution in establishing food security in the province. Categories include outstanding performances in sheep, goat, hog, carabao, cattle and poultry-raising, and outstanding implementation of Provincial Veterinary Office Programs and Projects among others Obias said Charlie Company was nominated in the category after its successful implementation of its company livelihood project and animal dispersal program.

The soldiers and the CAFGU Active Auxilliaries reaped their first income when they sold 20 full- sized hogs that earned them P71, 030.00.

“Our goal is to help in securing a decent source of livelihood for our soldiers and CAAs and their families.

Hopefully, we can do more and help out other people in the community especially former rebels who really want to go back to the mainstream society,” Obias added. (JCM/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

NAMFREL commits to protect elections

Mactan Island Beach Resort

By Rizalie A. Calibo SIQUIJOR (PIA) -- The biblical message about Jesus and political authority provides endless inspiration for Christian reflection on political power, recalling that it comes from God and is an integral part of the order that He created. arish priest of Lazi, Siquijor and justice and peace. authentic democracy is possible only in a Parish Pastoral Council for It means, working to recognize and state ruled by law and on the basis of a Responsible Voting (PPCRV) respect human dignity thru defending and correct conception of the human person. chair, Rev. Fr. Leonard Tan in his message promoting fundamental and inalienable He called on the candidates to make during the Peace Covenant signing in Lazi human rights, Tan said. this election be a sense of service to our recently shared the church perspectives This common good, is chiefly God, country and fellowmen. on election and the Biblical Aspects of guaranteed when personal rights and Proclaiming the NAMFREL’s pledge Political Community. duties are maintained. for a free, honest elections, he quoted Fr. Tan said human person as the The political community, he added, some lines, “without fear or favor, we, the foundation and purpose of political life pursues the common good when it seeks NAMFREL volunteers, commit to remain must be given priority before all else. to create a human environment that offers strong and constant in our vigilance to This he said as he calls on the citizens the possibility of truly exercising protect, preserve and enhance democratic candidates for May 13 elections to reflect their human rights and of fulfilling institution and practices and to actively as food for thought the church teachings completely their corresponding duties. promote honesty in governance as his through the social doctrine of the church Touching on the concept of meaningful message for the candidates' specifically from the pontifical council for democratic system, Tan also said that covenant. (mbcn/RACalibo/PIA7-Siquijor)

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PNoy ground breaks the P3B Mactan road widening project

By Amorganda A. Saludar CEBU CITY (PIA) -- President Benigno Simeon Aquino III led the groundbreaking and the lowering of the time capsule for the widening of the Mactan Cebu Circumferential Road at barangay Ibo, Lapulapu City on April 19, in time for his visit and political events in Cebu.

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he Mactan Island Circumferential Road is an existing paved road of 26.334 kilometers and needs to be expanded/widened to cope with the growing needs of more spaces and easy access to the airport.

The project also involves the improvement and widening of the three bridges with a total length of 49.02 meters covering barangay Gabi, Pilipog 1 and Pilipog 11.

The road widening project will provide easy access from Mactan International Airport to the various

tourist destinations in the Island and in the city of Lapu-lapu.

Mactan Island is noted for its class hotels, spa and resorts, beaches and other places mostly look up to by tourists.

He added that the construction of the Mactan Circumferential Road will cut time travel by about 15 minutes to the neighboring cities of Mandaue, Cebu, the municipality of Cordova and other areas within Lapu-lapu City.

The President also said that the evidence is that more and more tourists are already coming in and what is needed

then is to provide them convenience and easy access to every places they want to visit.

Traversing the municipality of Cordova with three bridges, barangay Gabi, Pilipog 1 and Pilipog 11, the project starts at barangay Pajo and ends at barangay Poblacion in Lapulapu City .

To include the acquisition of the right of way, the project costs P3.7 billion in which P300 million of it is taken from the DPWH FY2012 budget. (mbcn/AYS/ PIA7 )

Bohol to host ASEAN cyberporno, prostitution gab

By Rey Anthony H. Chiu BOHOL (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) in Central Visayas brings to Bohol, 11 ASEAN countries representatives for its 2nd Conference on Working toward a Cyber Pornography and Cyber Prostitution-Free Southeast Asia on April 23-25 at Bohol Tropics in Tagbilaran City .

SWD7 information officer advancement facilitated the production, she cited the results of various researches.

Jaybee Binghay said the Bohol storage and distribution of information This makes tracking of victims and conference is an offshoot of the and at the same time, brought in new perpetrators almost impossible, DSWD ASEAN first conference in Manila in June forms of human exploitation through noted.

2012 that tackled the dynamics and cyber pornography and cyber prostitution.

Participating ASEAN countries in the realities of cyber pornography and cyber Aggravating the proliferation of cyber Bohol conference include: Brunei prostitution as well as the development of pornography and cyber prostitution are: Darussalam, Cambodia , Indonesia , Lao a comprehensive and responsive public’s lack of information on the PDR, Malaysia , Myanmar , Singapore , interventions to address this issue.. problem and a d d r e s s i n g Thailand , Vietnam , Korea and the The 3-day event will include a variety cyber-pornography and cyber prostitution Philippines . (mbcn/RAHC/PIA7-Bohol & of methodologies: lectures, group as well as non-cooperation of cyber café JB/DSWD7) discussions and workshops, she said. owners and operators in disclosing any The 21st century technological information of their users, Binghay said as

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Panglao, Bohol Resorts

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PNoy: Gov’t to expand Cebu’s facilities for tourism development

By Fayette C. Riñen

CEBU CITY (PIA) – President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III said his administration is working on expanding facilities in Cebu to boost tourist arrivals and prop up tourism-related investments in the province.

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quino issued the statement in his message to over 5,000 crowd that gathered inside the Barba Sports Gym in Toledo City yesterday afternoon during his meeting with local leaders and the community.

The President said that Cebu has a lot to offer tourists, especially the various beaches, adding that one tourist corresponds to one job for the Filipino, may it be as a tourist guide or being employed in tourism-related sector such as souvenir shops, accommodations and restaurants.

He then cited government’s accomplishment that domestic tourist arrivals had surpassed its 2016 target of

35 million since in 2011, domestic tourists arrivals have already reached 37 million.

The President cited the P17.5 billion Mactan Cebu International Airport Passenger Terminal Project and the P3.7 billion widening of the Mactan Island Circumferential Road Project as two major projects of his administration to expand facilities in Cebu to boost tourism and investments.

Funding of the airport terminal project has already been approved as of November last year while at present, the project is in the process of bidding out with 11 interested bidders already signifying its intention, claimed Aquino.

The President also took the

opportunity to highlight his administration’s achievements on anti-poverty, education and in agriculture.

"At present, 3.8 million poorest of the poor families nationwide have benefited from the conditional cash transfer program while our target is to expand the coverage to 4.6 million households.

And this we are doing without raising taxes,” disclosed the President.

The President stayed in Toledo City for an hour before rushing to his fourth and last engagement at the Capitol attended by a 65,000 crowd at peak as he rallied the people to support and elect his local bets. (PIA7)

Voters’ education goes “on air” at DyRD, DyTR

By Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY , Bohol (PIA) -- Voters who wish to be enlightened about the recent developments on the upcoming midterm elections can now listen and interact as government election education campaign goes on the air.

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ubbed then as Comelec Hour, the pre-election government run voter’s education campaign is now back on air with three anchors willing to process everybody’s questions and clarify issues.

Anchored by City Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Registrar Atty.

Jonas Biliran, Provincial Comelec information officer Juvenal Beniga and Philippine Information Agency-Bohol, this year’s voters’ education segment has just

turned interactive.

The program, “Mga gutlo sa Kaalam Uban sa Comelec” can be heard over DyRD AM from 9:30 to 10:00 AM Monday to Thursday and at 11:00 to 11:30 every Fridays.

The same program and radio anchors shift to DyTR in the afternoon at 2:00 – 2:30 every Monday through Friday.

In the light of the automation and the Precinct Count Optical Scanners (PCOS) the radio program is a source of

information and clarification on the new technology, said Atty Biliran during one of the segments last week.

People and voters can interact with anchors of Mga Gutlo sa Kaalam through the usual landlines at DyRD and DyTR. The PIA also opens its usual textline for interactors who may not have an access to the landlines. The Mga Gutlo sa kaalam text line hotline is 0920-954-5482. (mbcn/RAHC/PIA7-Bohol)

PNoy mingles with ordinary folks in Mactan, Cebu

By Fayette C. Riñen CEBU CITY (PIA) –- Cheers and shouts met President Aquino after he casually mingled with ordinary residents in Barangay Ibo in Mactan, Lapulapu City prior to his departure for the next engagement in northern Bogo City in Cebu province. ixed disbelief, happiness and off in Barangay Ibo. he did not go to his waiting vehicle but awe were written in the faces Despite the noonday heat, island folks instead casually interacted with the crowd of ordinary people that braved the humidity to watch the and gave out yellow ballers bringing forth crowded outside the small barangay hall of President lower the time capsule and cheers from the residents and spectators.

Ibo where Pres. Aquino conducted a listened to his speech on stage right on The small gesture of the President media interaction inside with members of the road in front of the barangay hall. which lasted for less than 10 minutes was the Cebu media and the Malacañang Press Even after the program, spectators surely an unforgettable experience for Corps. who were mostly residents in the nearby these ordinary people who can only get to Prior to the media interaction, the area did not leave but opted to wait for meet the most influential person of the President led the groundbreaking of the the President finished his interview with country once in a lifetime. (FCR/PIA7) widening of the 26.3-kilometer Mactan the press inside the barangay hall.

Island Circumferential Road that will take When Pres. Aquino finally emerged,

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Philhealth re-imposes penalty interest for late payment of premium

Leyte Park Resort

By Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 23 (PIA) -- The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth) announced it will resume charges for late or non-remittance of monthly dues. The agency said the renewed imposition of interest was aimed to further enhance collection of premium contribution for actuarial sustainability of the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP).

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he re-imposition of interest charges for delayed payments, which was the subject of Philhealth Circular number 0004 s. 2013, will take effect starting April.

Officer-in-Charge Henry Madula of Philhealth-Southern Leyte revealed the penalty was re-imposed after it was waived for quite a long time. Based on the general guidelines of Circular 0004, all

premium contributions paid beyond the routine deadline “on or before the tenth calendar day of the month following the applicable month for which the payment is due and applicable” will be automatically charged two percent monthly interest.

“In case of remittances made prior to the deadline but were later found to be insufficient, the balance or deficit amount

shall be charged with interest,” the Circular said.

The Circular, signed by Health Secretary Enrique Ona March 19, 2013, in his capacity as Chairman of the Board, OIC-President and CEO, emphasized that it covers all employers as defined by law, specifically RA 7875, or the National Health Insurance Act of 1995, as amended

by RA 9241. (PIA-Southern Leyte)

DSWD allots P165M for feeding program in EVisayas

By Ninfa Iluminda B. Quirante TACLOBAN CITY, April 24 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the region has allocated P165 million, the third cycle of its Supplemental Feeding Program.

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ore than 110,000 children will be listed under the program this year—higher than last year’s 106,000, where they will be served “one hot meal” for 120 days, DSWD-8 Assistant Regional Director Virginia Idano said.

The program aims to help not only malnourished children, but maintain the nutritional status of those who have ideal weight.

The feeding program, to be implemented in LGU-managed day care centers, caters to children aged three to five.

DSWD aims to improve parental attitudes and knowledge on children’s nutritional needs.

The department however, was quick to clarify that the feeding program is not seen as a replacement to the three meals supposedly taken at home.

“The augmentation through the program only represents a third of the recommended energy and nutrient intakes (RENIs) of the children,” Pauline Nadera of DSWD-8 said.

In a re-launching ceremony held on April 23, 2013, media practitioners, some day care workers and children gave

testimonies as to how the feeding program helped them.

“Some kids skip school because ‘waray hira balon (They have no food allowance).’ With the feeding program, they no longer have to worry about their ‘balon,’” Ederita Ejada, Day Care worker from Naga-naga, Palo said.

In the town of Palo, the feeding program has even spiked an increase in enrolment for the day care centers.

“We hope that you continue this program to finally put an end to malnutrition,” Ejada told DSWD officials.

(PIA-Samar)

Foreign, Phl students conduct study on abaca in Biliran

By Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran, April 25 (PIA) -- Four foreign and two Filipino students are in the province of Biliran to conduct a study on abaca products.

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he foreign students who are taking up post-graduate studies at the University of Hohenheim in Stuggart, Germany are Frederick Mills of Ghana; Felix Sattler of Germany; Alejandro Bonilla Cardona of Columbia; and Saeyon Park of South Korea.

On the other hand, the two Filipino post-graduate students from the Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay City, Leyte are Litlen Dupar and Rossan Piamonte.

Mills and Dupar will conduct a study on the social aspects of abaca products; Piamonte and Sattler will study the kind of

soil planted to abaca; Park will study on the variety of abaca; and Cardona will study on the improvement of abaca post-harvest facilities used by the abaca farmers in Biliran province.

The students will stay in Biliran province for two months as they go through their study on the different aspects of the abaca products in the province before going to Catanduanes to conduct the same study of the abaca product of the province.

The six post-graduate students, their local research advisers from VSU together with Joseph S. Salas, provincial fiber officer

of the Fiber Industry Development Authority (FIDA)-Biliran and a staff the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Biliran visited the different abaca production sites in Biliran province on April 7-10, 2013 to identify potential abaca sites where they will conduct the study.

Dr. Marlito Bande, one of the research advisers who accompanied the group during the site visits, informed that the research study is a big help in the improvement of the abaca production in Biliran province. (PIA-Biliran)

EASTERN VISAYAS

Caluwayan Beach Resort, Marabut, Samar

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DENR advocates Basura-free campaign in EVisayas

election

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 22 (PIA) - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Eastern Visayas is implementing the “Basura-free Election 2013: Kalat Ko Sisinupin Ko” campaign in line with the forthcoming conduct of the May 13 mid-term elections. hrough this advocacy campaign, Interior and Local Government(DILG) to any violations of the JMC and its guidelines the DENR calls on candidates to make sure that candidates will properly which are enforced from Jan. 13 to June show their care for Mother Earth dispose of their garbage from campaign 12. by being conscientious on where to place materials and also help in cleaning up the A study showed that nailing of the and throw their trash while campaigning, surroundings after the election. trees could infect them and eventually lead Ms. Purificacion Daloos, Regional A joint memorandum circular (JMC) to their deterioration, Ms. Daloos said.

Information Officer of DENR said. was signed by the heads of the three Ms. Daloos cited the Provincial The candidates must bid their agencies to make sure that local officials, Government of Leyte for passing an supporters and campaigners not to tuck political parties, party-list organizations, ordinance prohibiting the nailing of any or nail their campaign posters on trees candidates and their supporters will materials on trees and for seeing to it that because this will destroy the health of the adhere to the provisions of Republic Act the same is implemented. trees.

9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Thus, in the province of Leyte, one They must only post the same in the Management Act of 2000, during the cannot see any poster tucked on trees, designated poster areas. campaign period. she said. (PIA-8) The DENR has joined forces with the Civil society, youth groups and private COMELEC and the Department of individuals are also encouraged to report

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OWWA-ODSP scholar graduates cum laude in Biliran TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 25 (PIA) -- A beneficiary of the OFW Dependents Scholarship Program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Agency graduated Cum Laude from the Naval State University in Naval, Biliran, Ms. Ma. Evangelina Filamor, Chief, Programs and Services Division of OWWA Region 8, said.

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s. Filamor identified the scholar as Zenaida R. Abrigo, sister of an OFW working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

She earned a degree in Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management with a general weighted average of 1.52.

The OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (OFW-DSP) is granted to an eligible dependent of an active OFW with

a basic monthly salary of not more than $400.

The scholar receives a financial assistance of P10,000.00 per semester, Ms. Filamor said.

OWWA scholar Abrigo is the youngest among eight siblings who lost their parents years ago.

It was her brother, Gilbert R. Abrigo, an OWWA member who supported her all throughout her studies.

Abrigo expressed her sincere and heartfelt gratitude to OWWA for giving her the opportunity to be one of the OWWA Scholars.

Meanwhile, OWWA Region 8 Director Norma del Rosario expressed elation over the good news saying Abrigo will be the source of inspiration to other OWWA scholars. I pray that the other OWWA scholars will also do good, Director del Rosario added. (PIA-8)

DWSD inks MOA with UPFI to implement modified conditional cash transfer in 5 LGUs

By Erna S. Gorne MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Central Office inked a partnership with a non-government organization, United People of FOBI, Inc (UPFI) for the implementation of the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer (MCCT) program in four municipalities and the City of Maasin.

PFI Program Coordinator Sofie cater to indigent families giving priority to the health center; enhance parenting roles Pono said “as an accredited those with 0- 4 years old and those through attendance to Fami ly non-government organization children with disabilities. Also to those Development Sessions (FDS); and to with the DSWD based in Maasin City, we indigent families who were not included mainstream families with children in need will implement the MCCT program as with the identification by the National of special protection for normal stipulated in the memorandum of Household Targeting System (NHTS) in psycho-social functioning through Pantawid Pamilya Program. agreement (MOA) with DSWD Central said municipalities.

Formerly the Federation of Omega Office last March 22, 2013.”

The Modified CCT aims to bring back She said, UPFI will cater to 1,000 children from the streets to more suitable, Beneficiaries, Inc (FOBI), the newly indigent families in their covered areas of decent and permanent homes and reunite renamed NGO is still in the process of responsibility, namely in the municipalities with their families; bring back children to some requirements with the Bureau of in Macrohon, Padre Burgos in Southern schools and facilitate their regular Internal Revenue (BIR) for their new Leyte and Matalom and Bato municipalities attendance including access to Alternative status, afterwhich, the full implementation which are based in Leyte province.

Delivery Mode and other special learning will immediately follow, Pono said.

CSWDO staff Fe Nida Sy disclosed modes; facilitate availment of health and (PIA-SoLeyte) that under the MCCT program, UPFI will nutrition services through regular visit to

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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.

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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:

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