One Visayas Vol 3 Issue 3

Vol 3

Issue 3

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

DTI Undersecretary Merly Cruz (2nd from right), and DOT 6 Regional Director Helen Catalbas (2nd from left) and assisted by Kalibo Mayor William Lachica, cut the ceremonial ribbon to open the Kalibo Ati-atihan Product Showcase at the Pastrana Park January 14, one of the yearly major attractions of the Kalibo Sto. Ati-atihan Festival. Looking on are Vicky Ramos, Provincial Tourism Council chairperson, DTI-Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadena Jr. and DTI 6 Regional Director Dominic Abad. The product showcase, showing Aklan's unique products from piña barongs and dresses, handicrafts and gift items to wellness products, will run from January 14-21, 2013. (VGV-PIA6)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III entertains questions from the local and national media during his meeting with the local leaders of the Liberal Party at the Mandaue City Sports Complex, Cebu on January 16. (rmn/PIA-7/ HFG)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Nilo Apuada, (standing left) vice-president of the Biliran Geothermal Incorporated (BGI), points the locational map of the coverage area of the Biliran Geothermal project in Biliran province during the public hearing on the project on January 11 at the SP-Biliran session hall. (rvictoria/PIA 8 Biliran)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

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January 14— 20, 2013

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

DPWH bidding process results in P237-M savings PAWING, Palo, Leyte, Jan 15 (PIA) -- The observance of transparent bidding process by the Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Office in Eastern Visayas has saved P237.76 million for government in 2012.

DPWH Region 8 Director Rolando Asis said the savings account for 6.29 percent of the P3.77 billion approved budget for 2012 projects.

The savings were generated through the strict leadership of Asis, with the support of the Bids and Awards Committee, said Antonieta R. Lim, DPWH information officer.

Lim disclosed that the 2012 savings from contract surpassed the P136 million savings for 2011.

Asis really ensured that mechanisms for competitive and transparent bidding process were observed, Lim said.

Moreover, the DPWH management allowed representatives from civil society organizations to observe the bidding procedures in the spirit of transparency and

good governance which is the guiding principle of the Aquino administration, Lim added.

Secretary Singson’s call to implement the “right projects, at the right cost, with the right quality,” is still in full force at the DPWH Regional Office 8, Asis said.

The innovations adopted to assure the realization of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ management philosophy of “right projects at the right cost with the right quality,” is fast gaining support from local government units for its transparency and good governance efforts.

The DPWH also implemented Department of Budget and Management - Budget Circular Memorandum No. 109 by signing a Budget Partnership Agreement (BPA) with “Bantay Lansangan,” an umbrella group of CSOs nationwide and DPWH current partner in project monitoring. (PIA-8)

Habitat to build homes for teachers, state workers

By Lorenzo O. Lambatin Jr. BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occ., Jan 15 (PIA6) -More than 200 teachers and government employees under the Department of Education will benefit from the socialized housing project at Bangga Totong, Bgry. Feliza.

The project is a partnership between Habitat for Humanity and property developer Villa-Sian.

During the ground breaking and laying of time capsule rites, HFH Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director for the Philippines Charlie Ayco said they are building a safe, clean, green and child friendly community where families are empowered, productive and resilient.

He noted that some 200,000 teachers in the country do not own homes yet.

He lauded Villa- Sian Property Development Corp. president Roy Villa for giving an example of a business that helps the community.

Ayco said Habitat acts as facilitator of the project and add value to it.

Bacolod City Schools Division Superintended Gemma Ledesma said the housing project is a dream-come-true for teachers in the city as she observed that having served in three divisions, many teachers either rent, live with their in -laws or share a home with their friends.

In her speech, she said teachers will be more motivated to work having roof over their head and their family living in a safe, clean and green environment.

Meanwhile, Brgy. Feliza Brgy. Captain Mona Jardin said the project is an answered prayer to the squatters living in the area that include her.

“I wish to see my community developed,” she said as she lauded Villa-Sian PDC for listening to their concerns and for embarking on a housing project.

Bacolod Pag-Ibig Chief Lourdes Uy told PIA her office will finance the ownership of the house and lot depending on the salary level of the applicants that can go as low as 4.5 percent interest per year.

The ‘Habitat Villa-Sian PDC Teachers and Employees Housing Village 1’ will have a library, duplex and single detach housing units, day care center and a multi-purpose center on a 2.3 ha. lot.

Project site development will begin this year and will b e comp leted in less th an two years.

HFH envisions a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

Serah Grace Arcolas, a volunteer for 18 years, said HFH has built 500 homes in Negros Occ. and another 500 homes for typhoon victims in Jaro Iloilo. (PIA6-JCM/LOL)

PNoy: Filipinos are world-class shipbuilders

By Rachelle M. Nessia CEBU CITY, Jan 16 (PIA) -- The opening of the shipyard operations of a global defense prime contractor in Balamban town, Cebu today highlighted the growing reputation of Filipino workers as world-class ship builders.

President Benigno S. Aquino III, who graced the grand opening of Austal Philippines’ shipyard facility in Brgy.

Arpili, Balamban, said the Philippines is now the fourth largest shipbuilding country in the world.

“In 2011, our ship exports reached $638 million,” said Aquino, adding that this is 57.9 percent higher from the previous year.

Currently, around 45,000 Filipinos are employed by shipbuilding companies, he said.

Of the total, 250 are employed by Austal Philippines’ shipyard operations in Balamban town here.

The President today led the unveiling of a marker outside the production facility of said company’s shipyard in Balamban, signaling the grand opening of the Australian shipbuilding company’s operations in the country.

In 2011, Austal identified the Philippines as their preferred location to develop a manufacturing facility in the region.

Austal has committed 15US$ million into its operations in Balamban, with the goal of developing a

Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III leads the unveiling of a marker at the Austal Philippines Shipyard Operations in Balamban, Cebu on Jan. 16, 2013 which signalled the grand opening of the Australian global defense prime contractor's operations in the country. Austal acquired the aluminum shipbuilding facility in Brgy. Arpili, Balamban in 2011 and now employs around 250 Filipino shipbuilders. (VVV/ PIA-7 CEBU)

world-class, high technology manufacturing operation in the area. .

The Austal facility here has recently finished construction of a patrol vessel for export to the United Kingdom costing £5 million.

The President said he takes this as a sign that the company is in the country for the long haul. (RMN/PIA-7 Cebu)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

South Koreans top WV visitors in 2012

By Elsa S. Subong

Iloilo City Hall

ILOILO CITY, Jan 15 (PIA6) -- South Koreans were the top visitors in Western Visayas in 2012, according to the figures released by the Department of Tourism-6.

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f the 2.1 million tourists who came to the region, and of around 1.2 million who went to Boracay, Aklan, 184,992 were South Koreans.

As per report, the Taiwanese came in second, accounting for 93,407 visitors; then Chinese 84,186 tourists; Americans, 20,603; and Australian, 15, 237.

Completing the top 10 visitors in the region were those from Russia-14,810, Japan-8,841, United Kingdom-8,729, Germany-8,098, and Hongkong-7,591.

DOT records further show that of the 10

million South Koreans who travel abroad yearly, only about one million choose the Philippines as destination, and almost 10 percent of this, flock to Western Visayas.

DOT Regional Director Helen Catalbas said there is a need to increase the region’s share of South Korean visitors.

The office, she said, has taken steps to strengthen the region’s share of Korean visitors, by starting to translate promotional materials from English to Korean language.

“This is to help Koreans understand better Ilonggo heritage and culture,” Catalbas

said in media interviews.

Materials which will have Korean versions include brochures that contain maps, tourism destinations, and historical facts about the city and province of Iloilo.

Korean language instructors based in Iloilo are translating the materials for validation by Korean experts in the DOT central office.

When translated, the materials will be placed in ports, airports, restaurants, and hotels accredited by the DOT-6. (JCM/ESSPIA6)

Capiceños commit to 'intelligent' film, TV viewing

By Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Jan 16 (PIA6) -- More than a thousand students, faculty and staff of different institutions in Capiz were able to participate and interact with top officials of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).

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uring the recent First Regional Forum of the agency this year dubbed, “Matalinong Panonood ng Pamilya Nina Juan at Juana,” held at Colegio dela Purisima Concepcion, Filamer Christian University, and Capiz State University-Mambusao campus, students and teachers as well committed to take part particularly in advocating for intelligent public viewing of films and television shows.

They likewise affirmed in monitoring films shown on buses and transport vessels.

The activity was headed by newly-appointed MTRCB Chairperson lawyer Eugenio H. Villareal who is a native of Mambusao, Capiz.

According to Villareal, the forum, which was also conducted in Iloilo and Negros Occidental and other parts of the country, aims to reach especially the children and the grassroots to educate them on the roles and functions of the agency.

It also aims to guide the public on the kind of television shows or films that should be watched according to the contemporary Filipino cultural values and standards.

He added that the campaign also intends to empower the community especially the education sector to help then in strictly complying with the commitment of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Marine Industry Authority (Marina) through a memorandum of agreement for their respective jurisdiction like the bus and shipping companies.

Villareal said that with the support of Capiz Governor Victor Tanco, they are planning to make Capiz as the hub of independent films in Western Visayas.

He also revealed that they will also hold this year the Nationwide Family Summit that will be participated in by the parents and adult members of the families for them to be aware of the different film and television programs

classification and for the public to unite for the contemporary Filipino cultural values and standards and for them to be wise in selecting shows or films for their young children or siblings.

Aside from the series of lectures, the MTRCB team likewise conducted an on-the-spot inspection of buses with television, checking among others the kind of DVD/CD films that are shown while on transit.

Tarpaulins and information materials containing advisory on the kind of films to be shown in buses were also posted in the bus terminals and in buses here.

Aside from Villareal, others who joined the two-day forum in Capiz were MTRCB Executive Director lawyer Victoriano Muring Jr., Board Members lawyer Jose Antonio Veloso, Francia Conrado, Mario Hernando, Jay Revestir, Bobby Andrews, and Jackie Aquino-Gavino.

(JCM/JBG-PIA6, Capiz)

Power plant to benefit Concepcion town, Panay Island

By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Jan 16 (PIA6) -- The municipality of Concepcion, Iloilo will immensely benefit from the state -of-the-art clean coal power plant to be situated in a 30-hectare property in Sitio Puntales, Brgy. Nipa in the said town.

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ccording to Palm Concepcion Power Corporation (PCPC) President Roel Z. Castro, who gave the briefing on the power plant project during the ground breaking ceremony, this will contribute to the economic development of the municipality.

“There will be direct and indirect taxes that will be obtained from this project and the town of Concepcion will get the lion share of these taxes,” said Castro.

Castro also said the power plant will employ 1,200 to 1,500 people during the construction phase and priority will be the people of Concepcion. He further said that there will be subsidy to be given to the municipality for

every kilowatt hour generated from the power plant.

The PCPC official also assured the community that they will adhere to the highest standards of environmental governance with the local government unit (LGU) as their partner.

“We will make sure to uphold corporate citizenship in the community and be environment advocates. In fact, we have a line-up of activities to mitigate environmental impacts,” said Castro.

Concepcion Mayor Milliard Villanueva said the town and its people are pleased to help the region achieve its development growth and targets by providing the necessary security and reliability of power supply.

“We are glad that Concepcion will be able to provide solutions to the power source problem in Panay Island,” said Villanueva.

Meanwhile, Dr. Walter Brown, PCPC chairman, said that aside from Concepcion, they are also looking for other areas in the region to help improve the economic welfare of the community.

PCPC is a joint venture of Palm Thermal Consolidated Holdings Corp (PTCHC) of A. Brown Company, Inc., AC Energy Holdings Corp. of the Ayala Corp, and Jin Navitas Resource, Inc. PCPC will be the corporate vehicle that will implement the Concepcion Coal Fired Power Plant Project. (JCM/LTP-PIA 6, Iloilo)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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DTI, LTO coordinate efforts on helmet inspection Iloilo City Hall

By Vicente W. Villavert

SAN JOSE, Antique, Jan 16 (PIA6) -- The Department of Trade and Industry Antique Provincial Office expressed confidence that their coordinated efforts with the Land Transportation Office will produce positive results in the implementation of the Republic Act No. 10054 otherwise known as the "Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009”.

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he LTO here has no report yet of the violators of the Helmet Act. However, the concerned LTO personnel here are expected to conduct an effective roadside inspection against erring motorcycle drivers following the recent DTI briefing in order to help the LTO determine the authenticity of the helmets bearing the Philippine Standard (PS) mark or the Imported Commodity Clearance (ICC) seal.

“With the briefing, we hope the LTO roadside inspections will be smoothly implemented,” DTI Antique OIC Director Jocelyn P. Perez said in a PIA interview as she pointed out, “By now, with the strict implementation this year, everybody must have

been well informed, or has already ample knowledge."

According to DTI Antique Trade and Industry Development Specialist Glen Fernando, the LTO has a record of some 7,700 registered motorcycle based on the 2011 record.

“We have reached and issued ICC seals to only 2,624 motorcycle drivers since our June to December 2012 sticker inspections and marking activities, and for those who did not see us for the authenticity of their helmets and ICC stickers, it is now the LTO’s turn to enforce the law, ” Fernando said. The LTO will conduct roadside inspection starting this week,

according to Operations Officer Giovanni Gasapo.

As stipulated on Section 7 of the Helmet Act, any person caught not wearing the standard protective motorcycle helmet in violation of this act shall be punished with a fine of P1,500 for the first offense; P3,000 for the second offense; P5,000 for the third offense; and P10,000 plus confiscation of the driver’s license for the fourth and succeeding offenses. DTI OIC Perez emphasized that protective helmet is intended to primarily protect the wearer’s head against impact in the event of a collision, crash, or fall. (JCM//VWVPIA 6, Antique)

No more room at hotels, resorts: DOT

By Lilibeth A. French ILOILO CITY, Jan 18 (PIA6) -- The local tourism office has urged Iloilo residents to accommodate their visiting relatives in their homes as hotels and resorts in and outside the city are now fully booked for Dinagyang Festival 2013 on Jan. 26 and 27.

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loilo City Tourism Officer Ben Jimena said they are hoping that the home-stay program will help address the influx of visitors who attend this year’s festivities.

Local government units (LGU) from other provinces are also expected to attend as part of their Lakbay Aral activity.

“Because of our declaration as Galing Pook awardee for 2012, many LGUs would like to benchmark with us on what we are doing with the festival,” said Jimena.

Some of these LGU delegations are from Narvacan, Ilocos Sur; Bayawan, Negros Occidental; Puerto Princesa, Palawan; and from Mindanao.

A finalist in 2011, Iloilo City’s Dinagyang’s Festival made it to the top ten list of winners of the Galing Pook Award for 2012 as an innovative and exemplary practice.

The annual event is highlighted by the Kasadyahan Festival and Ati-Competition in its cultural aspect and various religious activities to celebrate and honor Sr. Sto.

Nino. These activities are conducted in close cooperation with the city government, Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Inc. and the San Jose Parish Placer.

On the other hand, some 10 competing tribes are set to give a sneak preview of their performances for the festival’s main event, the Ati competition on January 27 during the Opening Salvo today, January 18.

Also, this year revelers can expect a performance from a group of authentic Atis from Anilao and Btac. Nuevo towns. (JCM/ LAF/PIA)

27 SMEs showcase Aklan products

By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, Jan 16 (PIA6) -- Amid drumbeats, the Kalibo Ati-atihan Product Showcase opened January 14 at the Kalibo Pastrana Park, a yearly promotional event and one of the main features of the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-atihan Festival.

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wenty-seven small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are joining this year’s event, offering wearables made from indigenous fibers, crafts, gifts and housewares, furniture and furnishings, processed foods, health and wellness, and ornamental plants for sale to the public, especially visitors and tourists coming to witness this year’s Ati-atihan Festival in Kalibo.

To run from January 14 to 21, the opening was graced by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Merly Cruz, DTI6 Regional Director Dominic Abad, Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Director Helen J. Catalbas, DTI Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadena, Jr. and staff, Kalibo municipal officials led by Mayor William S. Lachica and the local media.

In her message, Usec Cruz said the

province of Aklan is lucky to have two sectors that complement each other to anchor and develop other industries.

“Aklanons are lucky in tourism because of Boracay Island but luckier still because of Sr. Sto. Nino,” Cruz added.

Cruz also took the opportunity to thank Aklan residents like Vicky Ramos, chairperson of the Provincial Tourism Council, Albert Menez, chairperson of the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-atihan Festival Inc., and businessman Guidon dela Cruz and Anna India Legaspi, artist and pina cloth producer, and others for influencing the lives and interests of those from Aklan and for being part of Aklan’s entrepreneur pool in creating other industries in support of tourism.

Cruz also echoed Catalbas’ message to Aklan residents in caring for the environment and in their commitment to expand home-grown

industries.

Besides commending Aklan SMEs for producing wearables made of pina and other fibers, gifts and housewares and other products, Cruz also advocated for the development of the pangasius industry in Aklan which could help supply the seafood needs of Aklan, especially Boracay Island.

Cruz said pangasius fish grows fast and could already be harvested in four months’ time.

“Two pieces of pangasius could already reach a kilo. Pangasius could help remedy the fish shortage in Boracay,” Cruz said.

Boracay, Cruz emphasized, is a blessing - it attracts tourists and the people of Aklan can do a lot to earn because these tourists eat and do various activities so there should be business.

“Just add value to your products,” Cruz said.

(JCM/VGV-PIA 6, Aklan)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Search for TOSP opens in Central Visayas

Cebu City Hall

By Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, Jan 15 (PIA) -- This year’s search for the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) in Central Visayas has officially started. igher Education Institutions Government Center, Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu Since 1961, TOSP has been a (HEIs) can now nominate City. laboratory of great leaders. In its roster graduating students who are In Bohol, one may get in touch with are the likes of church luminaries Bishop outstanding in leadership, social the European Union Realising DREAMS Antonio Ledesma and Fr. Manoling responsibility, and academics, Rolando Project, Provincial Planning and Francisco, good governance icons Rene Villamero Jr, regional representative of the Development Office, Bohol Provincial Saguisag and Raul Roco, social development gurus Vicky TOSP, said.

Capitol, Tagbilaran City.

Colleges and universities should send TOSP nomination forms can also be Pineda-Garchitorena and Sonia Roco, their nominations on or before April 1 to downloaded at www.tospac.org or renowned broadcaster Ricardo Puno, and the following designated offices: contact the aforementioned persons for the current chief of the country’s higher education mandate, Dr. Patricia Licuanan For Negros Oriental and Siquijor, more information. nomination forms can be obtained at the TOSP is an Awards and Formation who is the first awardee of the Search.

TOSP is a commitment of RFM Great Physician Rehabilitation Foundation, Program that seeks to galvanize the youth Inc. (GPRehab), St. Louis Village, Bagacay, into nation building through exemplary F o u n d a t i o n , R F M C o r p o r a t i o n , Dumaguete City. Contact person is academic performance, change-making Commission on Higher Education Rolando Villamero Jr. social involvement, and inspiring (CHED), National Book Store, PLDT, and In Cebu, contact peron is Marnie leadership services to their school, local TOSP Alumni Community (TOSP-AC).

Racaza, CHED Region VII Office, National communities, and the country, said (FCR/JCT/PIA-Negros Oriental) Villamero.

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Australian shipbuilding company recognizes Filipino workers

By Amorganda A. Saludar CEBU, Jan 17 (PIA) -- A top-ranking official of an Australian-based global defense prime contractor has recognized the vital contribution of Filipino skilled workers in building world-class ships.

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ustal Philippines Shipyard Operations President and General Manager Joey Turano commended the effort, skills and abilities of Filipino shipbuilders during the visit of Pres.

Benigno S. Aquino III Wednesday at Austal's shipyard facility in Balamban, Cebu.

Austal is a global company that designs, constructs, and maintains revolutionary naval platforms.

It currently employs 250 Filipino workers along with 50 Australian staff after it started its Philippine operations at the West Cebu Industrial Park in Brgy.

Arpili, Balamban, Cebu.

Turano, in his speech, said that within its 10-month operation here, the company was able to produce world-class ships through the combined effort and skills of Filipino and Australian shipbuilders.

“The impressive skills and experience of the people in Cebu is central to that potential,” he said.

“I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the great contribution of our Filipino staff and those who have joined us from Australia and elsewhere," he added.

He said the 250 Filipino workers at the Balamban facility were already employed with the company in Australia.

They were brought to Cebu when the operation in Balamban started.

Austal's shipyard operations here has recently completed its first ship, a highly advanced world-class trimaran design for the European wind farm market.

Pres. Aquino, in response, told Austal officials that the Philippine government will continue to support the shipbuilding industry.

"I would also like to tell you that our administration will continue supporting your industry to make it easier for companies like you to build ships here," he said. (rmn/AYS/PIA-7)

ECC slates free seminar on employees compensation program

By Rachelle M. Nessia CEBU CITY, Jan 16 (PIA) -- The Employees Compensation Commission (ECC) will gather employers in Cebu for a one-day seminar on the Employees Compensation Program (ECP).

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round 150 employers and human resource officers from the private and public sectors are expected to attend the free seminar on Jan. 24 at the Waterfront Hotel, said Ingrid Zafra Yumang of the ECC in Cebu.

This activity will also be attended by union representatives, added Yumang.

The gathering is in line with ECC’s goal of intensifying awareness of workers and employers about the ECP, and the benefits that they may avail from it.

ECC, said Yumang, is a government corporation attached to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) created to implement the ECP.

According to its website, the commission provides a package of benefits for public and private sector employees and their dependents in case of work-related contingencies such as sickness, injury, disability, or death. (RMN/ PIA-7 Cebu)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

Cebu City Hall

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Over 600 candidates vie for 277 elective posts

By Jennifer C. Tilos

DUMAGUETE CITY, Jan 11 (PIA) -- A total of 277 elective positions in Negros Oriental are up for grabs with more than 633 candidates vying for local public posts in the upcoming May 13 polls. n preparation for the May 13 polls, campaign aims to raise the level of regulations to the firearms ban, and rules the Diocesan Electoral Board (DEB) consciousness of voters and even the on electioneering. will conduct voters education candidates towards Champ polls.

Comelec provincial supervisor, Atty. campaign in and outside college campuses, Volunteers are also needed in the Eddie Aba said his agency has also started training of poll watchers, peace covenant campaign to assist in activities of the to assess the conditions in all electoral signing, and candidates forum, among accountable materials verifiable audit districts with over 15 areas being declared others. team, technical assistant and prayer power as hot spots.

DEB convenor, Monsignor Julius groups, precinct poll watchers, voter’s The DEB is composed of the Parish Heruela of the Diocese of Dumaguete said assistant desk, among others, said Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, the line-up of activities aims to achieve Heruela.

National Movement for Free Elections, clean, honest, accurate, meaningful and Meanwhile, the Commission on Comelec, Philippine Information Agency, peaceful (Champ) orderly elections in the Elections (Comelec) has already issued Department of Education, Bishop province. guidelines including to the filing of Businessmen Conference, and the media.

In a DEB working committee meeting, candidates and elections campaign, (FCR/JCT/PIA-Negros Oriental) Msgr. Heruela said voters education

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‘Agripreneur’ urges farm tourism in Siquijor

By Rizalie A. Calibo SIQUIJOR, Jan 17 (PIA) -- An established entrepreneur and organic farming practitioner from Negros Occidental strongly encouraged “farm tourism” in Siquijor.

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Siquijor is a big tourism potential but it is presently not food sufficient,” Ramon Peñalosa said noting that the province, like many other islands in the country, are not making use of the “island-economy concept” where the potentials of the place and it’s locals are fully utilized.

Citing his 300-sq.m. micromodel farm of integrated natural farming business in Victorias City in Negros Occidental, Peñalosa said there is money in organic farming.

“Hindi na uso ang conventional farming, dapat organic farming na,” he said noting that natural farming is already an irreversible trend globally and has grown to be a US$90 billion industry.

He also pushed for farmers not to be just ordinary farmers but to be “agripreneur” and adopt the integrated farming system that has earned him millions of pesos based on the number of income generating projects he calls “money machines” that he himself practiced in his micro-model farm.

The formula he said is: productivity plus creativity equals tourism, he said.

While sharing to the group his knowledge and experience, he also challenged them to share with him the following advocacy: “Walang Pilipinong dapat magutom sa sariling bayan," "there is no unproductive soil, only unproductive farmer”; "there is money in the countryside"; and "the farmer who does not know how to pray is not a good farmer. (FCR/RACalibo/ PIASiquijor)

52nd Silliman Nat'l Writers Workshop extends deadline

By Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, Jan 17 (PIA) -- The Silliman University National Writers Workshop extended its deadline for applications to the 52nd National Writers Workshop to January 25. Entries postmarked on that date will still be accepted. he workshop will be held on May subsidy to partially defray costs of their Casocot said manuscripts should be 6 to 24 at the Silliman University transportation. accompanied by the official application Rose Lamb Sobrepeña Writers Applicants for Fiction and Creative form, a notarized certification of Village.

Nonfiction fellowships should submit originality of works, and at least one letter R os al es Ca s oc ot, wo rk sh op three to four entries, while for Poetry a of recommendation from a literature coordinator said the activity offers 12 suite of seven to 10 poems. professor or an established writer. All fellowships to promising writers in the For Drama fellowship, applicants should requirements must be complete at the Philippines and three fellowships to submit at least a One-Act Play with a time of submission. All applications or promising writers from any of the scene accompanied by a synopsis of the requests for information must be sent to countries in the Asean who want to have entire work should be included. the Department of English and Literature, a chance to hone their craft and refine It is required that each fiction, attention Prof. Ian Rosales Casocot, their style. creative nonfiction, or drama manuscript Workshop Coordinator, 1/F Katipunan Casocot said the writers will be should not be more than 50 pages, double Hall, Silliman University, 6200 Dumaguete provided housing, a modest stipend, and -spaced.

City. (FCR/JCT-PIA 7, Negros Oriental)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Biliran inaugurates Bahay Pag-asa

Tacloban City Hall

By Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran, Jan 17 (PIA) -- The province of Biliran inaugurated on Tuesday, Jan. 15, a residential treatment facility building for children in conflict with the law (CICL).

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he building dubbed as Bahay Pag-asa located in Barangay Larrazabal in Naval, Biliran will serve as treatment facility for children and youth in the province who are disadvantaged, at risk and with deep-seated behavioral problems.

It will also house children and youth in the province who are in need of protection, care, training and rehabilitation and for them to be transformed into productive members of society.

The establishment of Bahay-Pag-asa in Biliran province was realized through the convergence efforts of the local government units in the province through

their respective Inter-local Responsible Youth and Family Council with the putting up of one percent of the 20 percent of the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) of LGUs for its establishment and operational fund; donation of one hectare lot from the provincial government of Biliran and financial support from Senator Francis Pangilinan.

Virginia Cadano of the regional office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said that the Bahay Pag-asa in Biliran province will be the first local government unit operated residential treatment facility for CICL in Eastern Visayas region.

The regional office of DSWD in Region 8 maintains and operates a Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY) in Tanauan, Leyte that accommodates CICL endorsed from the different LGUs in Eastern Visayas.

Meanwhile, Biliran Governor Gerardo J. Espina called on all the stakeholders of the project to extend their unwavering support and cooperation to sustain operations of the Bahay-Pag-asa.

He stressed the value of helping one another for the benefit and total transformation of CICL in Biliran province into becoming productive members in the society. (PIA-Biliran)

North Samar PRC to hold million volunteer run

By Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar, Jan 17 (PIA) -- The Philippine Red Cross Northern Samar Chapter in cooperation with local government and local police officials will hold its nationwide Million Volunteer Run (MVR) in Catarman, Northern Samar on February 10, 2013.

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RC Northern Samar Chapter Administrator Susana T. Hernandez said the activity with its tagline, “I choose to run to save lives”, aims to serve as a driving force in advancing the spirit of volunteerism to address today’s humanitarian challenges.

Hernandez said PRC strives to empower the nation against the dangers of disaster by developing our youth and volunteers as humanitarian soldiers.

MVR also hopes to raise funds for PRC youth and volunteer trainings on disaster management and equipping every community with life-saving skills, Hernandez added.

The lady administrator is asking the support of the national and local offices as well as civic organizations in the province for the success of the activity.

A registration fee of P200 from each adult participant and P100 for each student-runner will be collected.

All runners are requested to wear red shirt.

PRC is intensifying its program for youth and adult volunteers in its different humanitarian endeavor to make them more useful and responsible citizens of the country. (PIA-Northern Samar)

4Ps new list covers eight LGUs in EVisayas

By Aurora J. Casimpan TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Jan 16 (PIA) -- Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with eight local government units (LGUs) in the region for their inclusion on the list of beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Programs (4Ps) of the government.

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he eight towns in the region included in the new list are Tunga and Isabel towns in Leyte province; Anahawan and Padre Burgos in Southern Leyte; and Lawaan, Guiuan, Mercedes and Sulat, all in Eastern Samar.

The eight towns have a combined beneficiary of about 6,000 families qualified for the 4Ps program.

The 4Ps program, also known as condition cash transfer (CCT), is a program of the government aimed to reduce poverty in the country but has certain criteria to be followed by the beneficiaries.

The criteria includes enrolling children in public school and ensuring the

attendance; regular check-ups with doctors as well as vaccinations.

The MOA signing was held at the San Juanico Golf and Country Club, Tacloban City last January 11. (PIA-8)

EASTERN VISAYAS

Tacloban City Hall

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DOH cites ten Samar towns for successful GP implementation

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Jan 17 (PIA) --The Department of Health (DOH) cited ten Samar municipalities for the successful implementation of Garantisadong Pambata in 2012.

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arantisadong Pambata program is a package of health services given to children.

Samar Provincial Health Office (PHO) revealed that out of the 26 municipalities and cities, ten of these got the highest number in program implementation.

In vitamin A supplementation, Talalora, Samar placed number 1 with 114.6% accomplishment or with a total coverage of 1,017 over a target population of 888. Second is Marabut, Samar with 105.7% or with a total coverage of 4,398 over a 4161 target.

Third is the municipality of Matuguinao, Samar with of 99.4% coverage or a total of 733 covered beneficiaries.

Other municipalities are San Jose De Buan, with 93.6% coverage, Zumarraga with 93.2%, Daram with 92.2%, Gandara with 91.9%, San Jorge with 91.2, Motiong with 91.2% and Sta. Margarita with 91%.

According to Joy Nabong, DOH Representative, deworming was also included as one of the interventions done in the communities.

Deworming she emphasized, should be done twice a year, that infection may return if the second dose is disregarded.

In deworming, two municipalities surpassed the target Basey, Samar with 106.1% coverage or a total of 2,394 over the 2,257 target and Marabut, Samar with 101% coverage or a total of 5,280 over the 5,202 target population.

Garantisadong Pambata is done twice a year, in April and October for children 0 -5 years old.

Other interventions include; breastfeeding and complimentary feeding, immunization of both child and mother, integrated management of sick child, child injury and prevention and birth spacing.

(PIA-Samar/Avha H. Ebalde)

Pag-IBIG-8 to open field offices, branches region wide

By Erna S. Gorne Tacloban City, Jan 16 (PIA) -- Bringing government services closer to the people, the Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) intends to open field offices, branches across the region.

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ccording to Pag-Ibig Information Officer Kevin Sosiona during the Info Fest initiated by Philippine Information Agency – 8 Regional Director Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu and hosted during the weekly Harampang (Kapihan) ha PIA at PIA Regional Office – 8 in Tacloban City, “ definitely Ormoc and Calbayog Pag-Ibig branches will be operational this year.”

The installation of equipments in the mentioned branch offices are underway and shall be manned by 20 staffs deployed from the regional office, he said.

He also said “ Pag-Ibig Regional Office -8 has also plans to deploy two to three

staffs to manage the proposed field services centers by next year in the following strategic areas: Northern Samar – Catarman and Allen; Eastern Samar – Borongan; Samar – Catbalogan; Leyte Palo, Dulag, Palompon, Robinsons and Port Area; Biliran - Naval and Southern Leyte – San Juan, Maasin City and Sogod.

Meanwhile, Pag-Ibig 8 will host free mass wedding, dubbed as “I do, I do”, for the first 100 couples on February 14, 2013, Sosiona further said.

The government savings fund will provide for the said couple’s free registration, wedding cakes, wedding rings,

among others, for the beneficiaries of the mass wedding ceremony while a grand prize of a house and lot await for the lucky couple from among the 100 couples only, he added.

The first ever Info Fest is a gathering of a host of government officers representing gov’t agencies which as participated in by PDEA, PhilHealth, PNP, Dept. of Agriculture, Pag-Ibig Fund, DOST and Mines and Geosciences (MGB), who interfaced with Tacloban City media on respective latest developments and programs this morning. (PIA-SoLeyte)

Gov't to respect people's will in elections, says Roxas

By Alicia E. Nicart BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Jan 15 (PIA) -- Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas said the Aquino administration respects elections as the center of democracy and that the voice of the people is the voice of God.

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e then expressed hope that the Roxas witnessed the signing this week election, according to Commission on midterm elections in May will of a peace covenant among provincial Elections officials. (PIA-Eastern Samar) be peaceful and orderly. candidates in Calbayog.

He also said government will never The Peace Covenant was the first in use any force to suppress the will of the the country for the upcoming midterm people.

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