Vol 6
Issue 10
In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS
Rosario ―Jing‖ Panganiban, Gender and Development (GAD) Iloilo focal person, explains sex and gender distinction during the Forum on Gender and Development and Women Empowerment held Wednesday, March 9 at Barroc National High School, Tigbauan, Iloilo. (PIA Iloilo)
More on Region 6, pages 2-3.
March 7-13, 2016
Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8
DA pushes for full farm mechanization By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, March 8 (PIA6) — Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said that he did not see any reason why farmers should avoid full farm mechanization. Alcala said full farm mechanization will support the Philippines as it competes in the global market in terms of volume and production cost of palay. As he lauded the high production of palay in Western Visayas, Alcala said 20 percent of the P1.5 budget for agriculture in Western Visayas is for farm mechanization program to help sustain the 119 percent rice self-sufficiency of the region. The DA’s Farm Mechanization was up to 30 percent equity for the farmers’ groups during the precious administration, but was reduced to 15 percent upon Alcala’s assumption. This year, any farmers’ association who wants to avail of farm machinery from DA will only give a 10 percent equity. A study from the Philippine Rice Research Institute and Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization, said farmers could save up to P1.60 per kilo with the use of rice combine harvester, which can harvest 3-5 hectares per day. It was noted that more than a decade ago the average age of an ordinary farmer was 57, while a survey two years ago for the start of the Philippine Rural Development
Project (PRDP), the average age was 54. Alcala said this is a result of the farm mechanization and the other programs which this administration has laid down for the farmers. In a forum with the farmers, fisher folks, farm extension workers, Alcala turned over more than P35 million worth of equipment to farmer associations in Western Visayas. He also turned over some P315 million worth of projects funded under the Philippine Rural Development Project of DA to Governors Florencio Miraflores of Aklan and Arthur Defensor, Sr. of Iloilo. (JCM/ESS with LAF report-PIA6 Iloilo)
Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala tries one of the new farm equipment turned over by the Department of Agriculture to farmer associations in the region as part of the government farm mechanization program. (DA-RAFID RFO File Photo)
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Nat‘l government pours P30B infra projects in Cebu CENTRAL VISAYAS
The Comelec demonstrated the new Voting Counting Machine (VCM) to more than 200 volunteers in today's training. The VCM is faster, easier with headphone, a special feature to be used for visually impaired and illiterate person, compared to PCOS machines in 2013, said Comelec official. (PIA7-NEGOR)
More on Region 7, pages 4-5. Also CLICK Here…
EASTERN VISAYAS
Fayette C. Riñen CEBU, March 4 (PIA) -- In the last five years, the national government through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) poured a total of P31.88 billion for various infrastructure projects in Cebu contrary to some critics saying the province was deprived of funding for big infra projects. DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, in a briefing of various infrastructure projects in Cebu, reported that the amount spent started in 2011 until this year. ―From 2011 to 2016, Cebu got a total of P31.88 billion for various infrastructure projects. This is more than what Cebu got from 2005 to 2010 of P11.89 billion,‖ said Singson at the Guadalupe Elementary School in Cebu City, the first stop of four activities graced by President Benigno Aquino yesterday. Singson said the projects consisted of construction of school buildings; repair, rehabilitation and widening of national roads such as going to Toledo City, Bogo City, Balamban, Daan Bantayan, South Cebu and even in Cebu City; assistance to local government units in repairing and widening of local government roads leading to tourism sites such as the Mactan Cebu Circumferential Road under the Tourism Convergence Program; widening of roads leading to the Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA); and the upgrading of the first Mandaue-Mactan Bridge. In fact, for 2016, Cebu has an allocation of P9.06 billion for the repair, rehabilitation and widening of national roads, said Singson.
Singson said all national roads in Cebu have been paved except for a few remaining roads such as in Argao and Dalaguete in the south. The DPWH secretary also said four lanes must be established for easier access going to the MCIA while local government roads leading to tourism sites also included roads in Bantayan Island and Medellin going to Daan Bantayan in northern Cebu. Singson further said it would help fund the master plan for flood control but that there is a need to identify priority areas. ―For 2016 alone, the agency is allocating P700 million for the master plan in addressing flooding in Cebu,‖ said Singson. Singson also appealed for the public’s patience as the repair of the first Mandaue-Mactan Bridge is set to start next month after classes end which no doubt would result to traffic congestion in the area. ―We need to repair (the bridge) and prevent any accidents. Repair works will last from five to seven months,‖ said Singson. Singson said regardless of political color, the agency will award at least 60 to 70 percent or remaining projects to contractors before March 25, the start of the local election campaign. ―Please help us monitor the projects of contractors,‖ said Singson. Singson was one of the members of the presidential party that came with Pres. Aquino to Cebu after their visit in Bohol last Wednesday. (rmn/fcr/PIA7)
NCDA, DOT bat for accessible tourism for PWDs
Marilyn Lauzon, project manager of the National Housing Authority (NHA) Regional Office answers queries from the local media during the Kapihan (Panginsayod ha PIA) re: Permanent Housing Units in Yolanda-affected areas.
More on Region 8, pages 6-7. Also CLICK Here...
Ninfa B. Quirante TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 4 (PIA) - The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) and the Department of Tourism are pushing for accessible tourism for persons with disabilities (PWDs) as they sponsored a seminar with the same objective. On Thursday, owners/managers of tourism partners like hotels, inns, tourism transport companies, restaurant, ambulatory clinics, spas, recreational and other players in the industry gathered to support the campaign which started in 2011 wherein DOT issued a memo circular on Guidelines on the Grant of Special Discounts to Persons with Disabilities Pursuant to the Provisions of Republic Act No. 9442. The tourism industry partners were taught knowledge and skills on the right ways to handle persons with mobility, hearing and visual impairments. Other participants include officials of national government agencies, local governments and officials of some
disability groups. Carmen Zubiaga, NCDA Executive Director, Rizalio Sanchez, Chief, information, Education and Communication Division of NCDA discussed the key mandates on Disability. DOT Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes who was also present to show support to the project urged those present that ―E Visayas should not only be known for its great food, great sights and historical places but as champion in handling tourists who are persons with disabilities.‖ Tourism for All concept ensures that tourist destinations, products and services are accessible to all people regardless of their physical limitations, disabilities or age as long as they are able to travel and function independently in their socio-cultural and economic activities in places where they want to visit. As the seminar folded up, the participants were asked if they are ready to receive the type of tourists that the NCDA endorsed, for which the attendees honestly replied, ―not yet’ but promised to be so in the near future. (nbq/ PIA 8 Samar)
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WESTERN VISAYAS people's
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wildlife
By Easter Anne D. Doza NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, March 7 (PIA6) - - The Cadiz City Environment and Natural Resources Office celebrated World Wildlife Day, March 3. his year’s theme ―The future of Wildlife promote, protect and disseminate ENR Officer Edgardo Rostata said the is in our hands‖ aims to reinforce the environmental awareness among the students, Philippine is considered as one of the most complex link between the wildlife, a release from the Department of Environment biologically diverse areas in the world and our people and sustainable development and to and Natural Resources said. country is a home to wide variety of wild emphasize the roles and responsibilities of the The pupils were very active and animals. present generation to implement and cooperative in listening to the video Rostata believes that in order to undertake measures that will safeguard wildlife about Philippine Wildlife, in which, determine the fate of wild animals it is for the generations to come. Forester Carolyn Grijaldo and Forest imperative to empower the mind of a child and ENRO-Cadiz led the film showing about Technician 1 Sharamae Mabanes asked instill the level of awareness in protecting and the Philippine Wildlife to Grade V pupils of questions from students in relation to the sustaining our wildlife. *(JCM/EAD-PIA6 NeCadiz West II Elementary School in order to video presented. gros Occidental)
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Guimaras promises more efficient tourism services By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, March 7 (PIA6) --- Local and foreign tourists can expect more efficient and effective tourism services while visiting the island-province of Guimaras.
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nbound local travel and tour operators are now required to secure a clearance and coordinate with the Provincial Tourism Office of Guimaras before they can tour around the province. The Office of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Guimaras passed Ordinance No. 2014-09 known as Ordinance Requiring for Mandatory Coordination of All Inbound Local Travel and Tour Operators with the Provincial Tourism Office prior to Guimaras tour. The ordinance aims to provide its visitors and guests with effective and efficient services and quality information and protect the welfare and well-being of the visitors while they are in Guimaras. Likewise, this action targets to present the actual situation of the island-province in terms of sustainable development and
environment friendly activities and establish a tourism database that will help attract tourism-related businesses and investments to come to the province. Helen Catalbas, Department of Tourism (DOT)-6 Regional Director, said that through the ordinance, Guimaras can establish an accurate tourism database which will make efficient gathering of tourism statistics and other information. ―Proper coordination between tourism stakeholders and the local government unit is the key to a successful and memorable tour,‖ she said. She said that the safety of the visitors can be guaranteed and the best services can be provided without intruding the privacy of the local residents and without unnecessarily delaying the tours. Under the ordinance, local tour operators
are required to secure a clearance from the Provincial Tourism Office duly signed by the Head Office and fill up a form with necessary information/data requested, which will be distributed to the Guest Assistance Centers, Designated Municipal Tourism Officers and transport sector concerned. Anyone who will accommodate, convey or conduct any tour facilitated by Tour Operators must ask for a clearance prior to their tour. Violators will be penalized with P3,000 for the first offense, P5,000 for the second offense and imprisonment for six months or fine of P5,000 or both such fine or penalty at the discretion of the court. Guimaras welcomed and assisted 94,315 (3,449 foreign; 90,866 domestic) tourists, according to the final 2015 tourists arrivals report of DOT-6. (LTP/DOT/PIA-Iloilo).
OPVET recommends ‗cut and carry‘ feeding scheme By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, March 9 (PIA6) -- The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVET) here is recommending the ―cut and carry‖ style in feeding big animals instead of putting them to pasture to protect them from the foreseen effects of the El Nino Phenomenon.
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he ―cut and carry‖ style, according to Sr. Agriculturist Dr. Gervase Radislao of OPVET-Aklan, involves the cutting of grasses from the field or pasture areas and bringing these to feed animals right in their sheds or shelter. This scheme, according to Dr. Radislao, would protect the animals from extreme heat at the height of the El Nino, or from heavy rains during the rainy season which could affect the health of the animals. Currently, Dr. Radislao said the province is lucky because it still enjoys rainfall especially at nighttime but Aklanons must also be prepared for the effects of the El Nino once it
strikes, being anticipated to affect during the first quarter of the year. The ―cut and carry‖ scheme could also save more area space for the farm which could be utilize for planting other crops or for tending other livestock like chickens or pigs. To effectively practice this feeding scheme, the OPVET is advocating to farmers to plant in their pasture areas grasses like napier and sitaria, and leguminous plants like ―ipil-ipil‖. This is to ensure the regular source of animal food as pasture areas are getting smaller due to increasing human population that converted pasture and farms for residential
areas. To protect the animals from the adverse effects of El Nino, the OPVET also called for modified or upgraded shelters of animals, like bigger sheds with higher roofs. The El Nino’s adverse effects to the province’ livestock and poultry could redound on the economy, Dr. Radislao said. He emphasized however, that in 2015, OPVET spearheaded Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) seminars for farmers and cooperatives in the province to plan and implement measures to mitigate the effects of the El Nino on their livestock, poultry, and crops. (JC/VGV PIA6 Aklan)
WESTERN VISAYAS
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COMELEC-6 election preparations on track By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, March 11(PIA6) — The Commission on Elections here said that it is 80 per cent prepared for the elections in May and that it is on track in its pre-elections activities.
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n a media interview, Comelec Regional Director Rafael Olaño said that they will be training their board of canvassers by end of March or first week of April. ―Then we will just be waiting for the arrival of the machines two to three weeks before elections,‖ Olaño said. He added that they have already communicated to the central office how many machines, ballot boxes and other election
paraphernalia they need. He said that the present vote counting machines are more friendly compared to those in the previous elections. The counting machines are updated models of the precinct count optical scan machines (PCOS) used in the 2010 and 2015 elections. The machine features, among others, a featured source code that makes sure the
votes are interpreted correctly. Meanwhile, Olaño said that the recent ruling of the Commission on Elections regarding the issuance of voter’s receipts may extend voting hours, but it may, in no way, cause the deferment of the May 2016 Elections. ―Here in the region, our technical people are studying ways to address possible effects of this latest development,‖ Olaño said. (JSC/ESS-PIA6 Iloilo)
PH-US Balikatan exercises set in Antique By Vicente W. Villavert SAN JOSE, Antique, March 8 (PIA6) - - The Antiqueños will experience real war situations when the Philippines-Unites States (PH-US) Balikatan exercises kick-off on March 28-April 16, 2016, here.
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ig war ships will dock in San Jose seaport, helicopters, fighter planes hovering in the Antique skyline and other modern war machines will be arriving on April 11, 2016. LTC Enriqueto Deocadez of the 82nd IB, Philippine Army, said during the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) Meeting that the three sites of the Balikatan exercises war are at the San Jose seaport, Evelio B. Javier Airport, and Camp Fullon. ―The scenario is to seize back Panay island as the 3rd ID Philippine Artmy Heaquarters in Jamindan was captured by the foreign enemies,
and Antique will be the assembly area of all the forces coming from Nueva Ecija, Zubic and Palawan,‖ Deocadez said during the Provincial Peace and Order Council Meeting held at the Provincial Capitol. The scenario’s military operations will launch a counter attack to retrieve Jamindan from the enemies and this will enhance the army’s crisis capability in the territorial defense operations. The Balikatan joint military operations between the Philippine and the United States militaries will be participated in by some 300 US Forces composed of US army, marines
and airforce and 300 Filipino soldiers from the army, marines and airforce, aim to maintain and develop mutual defense relationships and enhance capacity of both the military and civilian agencies for humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations, among others. Deocadez urged Governor Rhodora Cadiao during the PPOC Meeting to tap various government leaders, local government units, NGOs, the media to help inform the public in order to prevent panic during the Balikatan exercise.(JCM/VWV/ PIA Antique)
Pag-IBIG Fund reaches out to more sectors By Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, March 9 (PIA6) – The Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG Fund vows to reach more Capiceños to become members for them to avail of the social benefits.
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ewly-assumed Pag-IBIG Fund Capiz Branch head Juanita Artiola said they will be conducting information and education campaign in the different barangays, to reach not only the formal or employed sector but also the informal sectors. This is to appeal to the informal groups to be enrolled with the Pag-IBIG Fund so that they will also be able to avail of the various social benefits that are offered by the agency such as the multi-purpose loans and housing loans.
―We have to reach the barangays to reach especially the Roxas City Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association including all those that were sent with the letter of former Capiz Branch head that demands for the compulsory membership with the Fund by all, including those in the informal group,‖ she said. She said that they need to mend the feelings of those who received such demand letter that caused them anxiety and emotional upset. Under Republic Act 9679, membership in
Pag-IBIG Fund is mandatory for all employers and employees covered and should be covered by the Social Security System (SSS) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). Meanwhile, the agency is also asking support from the different local government units by making Pag-IBIG registration as part of the requirements in securing and renewing a business permit. As of February this year, more than 32,000 are already members of the PAG-IBIG Fund in Capiz. (JCM/JBG/PIA6)
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CENTRAL VISAYAS
DTI to hold info campaign on competitiveness Juju M Empuerto CEBU CITY, March 10 (PIA) --- Exporters in the food industry sector and stakeholders in the export industry are invited to an information session under the Philippine Export Competitiveness Program (PECP).
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he session is organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) and DTI-Cebu Provincial Office. It will be on March 17, 2016 from 8:30am – 4:30pm at Harolds Hotel, Gorordo Avenue corner Rosal St., Lahug, Cebu City. DTI-7 Provincial Director Maria Elena Arbon, in a press statement, said the session's theme is, "Engaging the Export Stakeholders of the Region.‖
She said the info campaign of DTI aims to increase the productivity and competitiveness while addressing the current issues and concerns and to promote exporting business. Resource speakers are from the DTI Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Control Union Phils. Inc., Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Philippine Export-Import Credit Agency (PhilEXIM), and Small Business Corporation (SB Corporation). They discuss relevant topics such as
Organic Certification, Fairtrade Certification, Market Opportunities for Philippine Halal Certified Products, Updates of Food and Drug Administration Regulations, and Financing for SMEs, added Arbon. The session is for free, however, seats are limited on a first come, first served basis. Interested participants are asked to contact DTI-Cebu Provincial Office at telephone nos. (032) 253-2631 and 255-7082 (loc.109) for reservations. (rmn/jsme/ PIA7-Cebu with DTI report)
High success rate in TB treatment noted in CV Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, March 10 (PIA) – Health officials noted a high success rate in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). n yesterday's Kapihan sa PIA Cebu, Dr. 5,000 were treated and cured,‖ Laurel said. Prolonged coughing and fatigue are Sharon Azenith Laurel, focal person for TB Boel Espinosa, Nurse V at DOH-7, added initial symptoms of TB with the presence of of the Department of Health Central Visa- that treatment of TB is now easy and blood in sputum as the most elaborate yas (DOH-7), said they had exceeded last accessible in most of the Regional Health Units symptoms. year’s target for treatment. (RHU) in Central Visayas. ―Also, the history of exposure to TB DOH-7 records show that in 2015, RHU’s are given TB DOTS (directly patients is enough reason to seek DOH-7 aimed for 90 percent, but successful observed treatment, short course) consultation,‖ Laurel said. treatment of TB reached 90.95 percent. accreditation by DOH. One has to have strong immune system In 2014, there was a ratio of 292 TB DOTS is a strategy recommended by and a healthy lifestyle in order to avoid being diagnoses for every 100,000 population, and in the World Health Organization for TB. contaminated with TB. 2015, it was reduced to 280:100,000. Espinosa said normal treatment for TB Early detection of tuberculosis will make it ―In last year’s 18,722 patients tested for runs from six to eight months while those with more easy and fast to cure. (rmn/fcc/ TB, more than 6,000 were positive and over resistant cases lasts around 18 months. PIA7-Cebu)
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Over P3B worth of projects for NegOr endorsed to RDC Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, March 9 (PIA) – More than 80 road and infrastructure projects worth over P3-B have been proposed by various identified sectors in local government units for endorsement to the Regional Development Council-Negros Island Region 18 on March 11.
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nder its Coordinating Roads and Infrastructure Investments for Development (CR+ID), Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce (NOCCI) President Ed Du said the proposed projects will be presented to RDC which will push for its funding and be included in the General Appropriation Act in 2017. Some 15 roads and infrastructure are prioritized in the list for each of the three districts of Negros Oriental, Du said. The proposed projects include road networks, farm-to-market roads, roads to potential tourism sites, establishment of tourist
information centers, trading posts, solar driers, and jetty ports. The road networks were identified by each sector from the fisheries, high value crop, livestock and poultry, coconut, and tourism from the LGUs in a series of workshops which aggregated to 280-kilometer stretch for the three districts. Du said District 1 got a little over P1-B worth of projects while the remaining balance is more or less divided by Districts 2 and 3. He disclosed that the next phase of the project will be a provincewide GPS-based infrastructure and industries mapping or
business plotting where tourists or investors can find any product and services offered in the province by using only their iPhones. CR+ID is a collaboration project with Asia Foundation (TAF) and NOCCI to assist the province to develop a tourism road network map and infra investments through the use of value chain analysis in identifying strategic road links. TAF in support with Australian Embassy provides assistance to provincial government to map strategic roads and infrastructure with the private or tourism sector. (rmn/jct/ PIA7-Negros Oriental)
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SEC encourages entities to submit annual reports on schedule Hazel F. Gloria CEBU CITY, March 9 (PIA) – The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Cebu Extension Office is encouraging entities to submit their annual reports during the set schedules.
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tty. Theresa Marie Puno-de la Peña, Securities Counsel, announced the deadline schedule during the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO) 7 and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) 7 Forum held at the PIA-7 Regional Office, Cebu City. All corporations, including branch offices, representative offices, regional headquarters, and regional operating headquarters of foreign corporations shall file their Audited Financial Statement (AFS) depending on the last numerical digit of their SEC registration or license number in accordance with the f ollowing schedule: April 18-22: 1 and 2; April 25 -29: 3 and 4; May 2-6: 5 and 6; May 10-13: 7 and 8; and May 16-20: 9 and 10.
De la Peña also said that those entities whose fiscal year ends on a date other than December 31, 2015 will file their AFS within 120 calendar days from the end of their fiscal year. Late filing or filing after respective due dates shall be accepted starting May 23, 2016 and subject to the prescribed penalties which shall be computed from the date of the last day of filing schedule. On the other hand, SEC also announced that their Cebu Satellite Office is now open at the Robinsons Galleria with business hours from 1 0 :0 0 am t o 6 :0 0 p m ( Mon da ys to Fridays). With this new satellite office, people from the northern part of Cebu and from other
provinces could now go to Robinsons Galleria. Among the services offered in that satellite is the receiving of General Information Sheets (GIS) and Audited Financial Statement (AFS) Atty. Tara Tsarina Perez-Retuya said the GIS should be filed within 30 calendar days from the actual annual meeting of the stockholders if it is a stock corporation or of the members meeting if it is a non-stock corporation. SEC officials reminded all the officers, directors, and trustees of corporations of the deadlines to submit their annual reportorial requirements. (rmn/hfg/ PIA-7/AGIO-7)
‗Chocobao‘ in chocolate hills welcome tourists Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, March 4 (PIA) — Branding Bohol as an eco-cultural tourist destination with a strong agro-industry can never be better than this: offering the local dairy refreshment for a welcome drink.
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n the Chocolate Hills country enter the chocobao, a concoction of chocolate and pasteurized carabao milk chilled and served to the thirsty. Then thought to be just an expensive concoction to force carabao dairy as a livelihood alternative, chocobao has slowly nudged and horned its way to resort freezers, ready for the thirsting tourist. Governor Edgar Chatto, in his latest State of the Province Address (SOPA), urged the crowd at the Bohol Cultural Center on February 26 to try the chocobao as he proposed a toast saying ―Padayon Bohol‖. ―We are the first-ever province to have ever produced 1,000 liters of dairy,‖ the governor bared, citing the news he gathered during the annual Dairy Festival held at the Philippine Carabao Center in Lomangog, Ubay. Bohol dairy authorities reported that the 16% increase in milk production from
2013 to 2014 has generated P26 million in income. For this, the government pushed support for the Bohol Dairy Processing and Marketing Enterprise, when its members have proven that there is income in dairy production especially with the main farm animal: carabao. On this, in his SOPA, the governor said: "Another example of a livelihood-focused inclusive growth strategy: we get our supply of milk from local dairy farmers, thereby raising their income levels, and it leads to a whole set of multiplier effects for the rest of the province.‖ The prospect of up-scaling the milk industry and its potential while generating income and increasing livelihood opportunities for the people is what Chatto has been plugging along in his talks with farmers. He said that the Dairy Development
Program is relatively new, and this is in partnership with the Bohol Dairy Producers Association (BoDPA). The plan is to expand dairy milk production, and BODPA’s Bohol Dairy Carabao Processing and Marketing Enterprise pegs a P9.23 M proposal to strengthen its production capacity. The governor said the proposal is now supported by the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) funded by World Bank and implemented in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Philippine Carabao Center and National Dairy Authority. Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Stella Marie Lapiz was reported to have urged hotels, resorts, restaurants and similar establishments to serve native Boholano beverages using native ingredients as welcome drinks to their guests. (rmn/rac/PIA7-Bohol)
NGCP fast tracks repair works on damaged cables in Banilad, Cebu Jennifer C. Tilos CEBU, March 4 (PIA) – The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines is closely coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways to fast track the repair works on damaged underground cables transmitting power from NGCP's Cebu Substation in Banilad to Mandaue. orporate communications officer contractor doing excavation works for the city's specifications are unavailable in the country and Michelle Visera of NGCP said the laying drainage system at the corner of Cortes and needed to be sourced abroad. of new cables was completed last Plaridel Streets in Mandaue City,‖ explained "NGCP asks for the continued month. Visera. understanding of the public. We coordinated While other works to be implemented by The NGCP official said power customers the works closely with the DPWH and the contractor include electrical works affected with the tripping were informed, PLD Construction to avoid this kind of and repairs, testing, and commissioning, said while the linemen were working the situation. However, despite all the precautions Visera. affected line and transmission service was taken by all parties, the incident still happened. ―The 138-kiloVolt (kV) Cebu-Mandaue Line restored to distribution utility VECO on the We are expediting the repairs so that things will 2 tripped on 20 October 2015 at 10:52AM same day. go back to normal at the soonest possible time," when underground cables were accidentally hit She also explained that specialized NGCP said. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental/ by a backhoe of PLD Construction, the DPWH equipment with the required technical NGCP)
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NG gives P1.28B for North Samar‘s 2nd District 2016 infras Ailene N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar, March 9 (PIA) – The national government through the Department of Public Works and Highways allocates around P1.28 Billion for infrastructure projects to be implemented in the second district of the province of Northern Samar, this was learned from DPWH, Northern Samar Second District Engineering District (NSSDEO) PIO Unit.
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unded based on General Appropriation Act (GAA) of the Department’s 2016 Infrastructure Program, the project specifically include Asset Preservation of National Roads covering preventive maintenance/highway development and management, rehabilitation reconstruction and upgrading of damaged paved national roads and rehab, reconstruction of national roads with slips, slope collapse and landslides, among others.
Another major project funded for 2016 is Network Development, under this category is the construction of missing gapsNorther connecting national roads and off-carriageway improvement including drainage. Part of budget is also allocated to the construction and maintenance of bridges along national roads, which is retrofitting and strengthening permanent bridges. In a meeting with technical personnel and contractors early this year called by
DPWH-NSSDEO, District Engineer Ferdinand Briones advised contractors to strictly adhere to the project schedule and avoid incurring negative slippages in the implementation of the project. Dependent on the budget apportionment of each project, the implementation will be undertaken by either DPWH Central Office, Regional Office or DPWH Northern Samar 2nd District Engineering Office. (ADiaz)
Eastern Samar opens 2016 Women‘s Month celebration Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, March 8 (PIA) - The Provincial Government of Eastern Samar through the support of Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) and Eastern Samar Provincial Welfare and Development Office formally opened the celebration of Women‘s Month last March 04, 2016 at the Eastern Samar Provincial Capitol Lobby.
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ith the theme, ―Kapakanan ni Juana, Isama sa Agenda‖, the highlight of the said activity was the recognition of Estehanon women for the Huwarang Juana na Mangingisda, Huwarang Juana na Magsasaka at Huwarang Organisasyon ng Mga Juana awards where the awardees were chosen from the various towns of the province. From the 6 nominees, Donata Esmenia of Mercedes was declared as Huwarang Juana na Magsasaka; Ma. Fe Sesio of Sulat was declared Huwarang Juana na Mangingisda; and the Quinapondan Women’s Association was declared as Huwarang Organisasyon ng Mga Juana. According to Mrs. Josefina Paligutan, DSWD Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer, Huwarang Juana na Magsasaka and Mangingisda received cash prize
of P 2,000 each from Hon. Governor Conrado B. Nicart, Jr. while for Huwarang Organisasyon ng Mga Juana received P 4,000 as additional financial assistance from Hon. Gov. Conrado B. Nicart, Jr. . The awardees will also receive a free training from ESSU. Paligutan also said that the purpose of the Women’s Month Celebration is to organize women’s groups to address the issues and concerns regarding women's rights and roles for the progress of the province and the nation as well as to strengthen the advocacy of Women’s Month Celebration nationwide. Meanwhile, in Governor Conrado Nicart Jr.’s message read by Eastern Samar Provincial Quick Response Officer Ms. Christy Cidro, he conveyed his continuous support to laws and programs concerning women and emphasized
the importance of women in the society. He further said in his message that men cannot live without women, that’s why women really need to be lauded and recognized for their contributions to the province and to the whole nation. ESSU President Dr. Edmundo Campoto on the other hand, mentioned the factors affecting the capacity of women in the society: the culture of a community, socialization — where women are focused only on housework, and stereotyping and that women are treated as weaker and less qualified compared to men. He further said that the Women’s Month Celebration may serve as a wake-up call for everyone to be fair in giving opportunities, especially to women — regardless of her gender preference. (SDC/ PIA-E. Samar)
Former NPA stronghold in Leyte now insurgency-free Consuelo Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Mar 8 (PIA) – A former NPA stronghold in Northern Leyte is now insurgency-free. his, declaration was made in the Meanwhile, Col. Francisco Mendoza Jr., of the local government unit to address ceremonial signing of the Memorandum Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade who the services needed by the constituents as one of Agreement forged recently between was one of the signatories of the MOA key factor in the attainment of the present the officers of Philippine Army and the local expressed optimism that the declaration will state. government unit of Kananga, Leyte. further attract investors to establish business in Prior to this, 15 Leyte towns First Lieutenant. Bryan R. Albano, Civil the said municipality. were already declared as Stable Internal Military Operations Officer of the 19th Infantry Mayor Elmer Codilla, on the otherhand, Peace and Security Areas. These are Batallion, 8th ID Philippine Army said that the considers the joint declaration as an the municipalities of Matag-ob, Merida, joint declaration was pursued upon the achievement not only of the municipality but Palompon, Tabango, Barugo, Babatngon, recommendation of the 19th IB and the also of the barangay officials and other San Miguel, Leyte, Pastrana, Tolosa, Dagami, passage of resolution no. 20R-14-791 by the stakeholders. Calubian, Sta. Fe, Alang-Alang and Tunga. (cba/ municipal council. The local official also cited the capability PA/PIA-8)
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PAL mulls Manila-Maasin flights Marcelino Pedalino MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 4 (PIA) -- Executives of an established airline company visited this city Tuesday and held exploratory talks with government officials, including the private sector, to have air transportation hereabouts viable and sustainable.
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t the Kinamot sa Abgao where the discussion was held, Rabbi Ang and Joseph Tan, both of Philippine Airlines (PAL) Express, and Dan Quines Moquia of PAL-Tacloban, made no commitments just yet, but stressed that everything will have to be duly studied, and will go through technical and marketing processes. But they already gave a hint on the number of people to ride, saying the Q 400 aircraft that can be dispatched can carry 76 passengers, excluding the crew. How much would be the fare will also be announced later, they said. They also said that following their visit will be an ocular inspection by PAL’s technical team, whose findings and other necessary details would be relayed to Gov. Roger Merca-
do and the leaders of local businesses who attended the meeting. The attendees included Epifania Sy, President of Southern Leyte Chamber of Commerce and Industry and proprietor of Panny’s Home Bake Products, and Phil Mcguire, a dive resort owner of Padre Burgos and President, Tourism Association of Southern Leyte (TASL). From the public sector, aside from Gov. Mercado, those present were Nedgar Garvez, provincial Tourism Officer, and Mike Nunez, provincial director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Provincial Fiscal Atty. Antonino Ruiz was also around, in his capacity as head of the Rotary Club of the province. ―There is already an airline willing to come here needing our support,‖ Gov.
Mercado remarked. Last year, another airline company, Cebu Pacific, sent a letter to Gov. Mercado, listing some observations of their technical team to be addressed in time for their new fleet to fly the Maasin airport route by the first quarter of 2017. The PAL exploratory talks generated more than 70 shares in under 24 hours since pictures of the meeting was posted at PIA-Southern Leyte’s facebook account, with many commenting for it to be realized sooner for a fast, safe, and convenient travel in and out of the province. The story of the Cebu Pacific interest to consider the Maasin airport also gathered positive feedback upon posting, the story itself picked up by other news organizations. (mmp, PIA8-Southern Leyte)
PCA-Eastern Samar continues to help coco farmers Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar (PIA) -- The Philippine Coconut Authority- Eastern Samar will continue to help coconut farmers in Eastern Samar through their Kasaganahan Sa Niyugan ay Kaunlaran ng Bayan (KAANIB) Project that will give them additional livelihood. ccording to PCA- Eastern Samar beneficiary until all of the members are able to destroyed. Provincial Manager Mr. Henry Duzon, avail of the project. Duzon further said that this their office distributed carabaos and In Mercedes town, Duzon said that they reprogrammed project is very timely because it cows in Brgy. Recare, Jipapad. 29 members of distributed 52 goats and 12 cows in Brgy. will help coconut farmers while waiting for the the Jipapad Agricultural Development Group Palamrag as well, through the same scheme. coconut industry of the province to received 17 carabaos and 12 cows that they This livestock production is a 2013 recover. He also expects that through this will take care of and have reproduced. project of the PCA, but it was temporarily project, the coconut farmers will be able to The PCA- Eastern Samar will also pay the stopped due to the onslaught of super typhoon recover through the utilization of carabaos coconut farmers if the animals will produce an Yolanda wherein their attention was focused in-intercropping and as a source of milk — just offspring, which will be given to the next on the rehabilitation of the coconut trees like the cows and goats. (SDC/PIA-E. Samar)
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DPWH-SLDEO seeks P200M outlay for new road network Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 8 (PIA) -- About P200 million is needed for the construction of Liloan – San Ricardo Circumferential Road – a five year opening activities for an alternative route from San Ricardo to San Ricardo town in the province of Southern Leyte.
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he Liloan-San Ricardo circumferential road will reduce the travel distance from Liloan Port to another exit point in Mindanao from more than 40 kilometers to only 20 kilometers. It is designed to cut travel time and skip road sections vulnerable to landslides and accidents. District Engineer Ma. Margarita C. Junia in a press release stated that ―the road opening is needed to ensure that land transportation would not be disrupted with landslides, road slips and accidents.‖ She said that the project will convert an existing provincial road into a primary highway, unlocking economic activities in rural communities of two towns in the
southernmost part of Southern Leyte. Of the P200 million proposed outlay, P40 million is for 2016, P48 million for 2017, another P40 million for 2018, P49 million for 2019 and another P23 million for the year 2020 with four bridges, the source said. For the 2016 allocation, the project will open about 1.70 kilometers of gravel road while other civil works include roadway excavation of hard rocks, installation of drainage system and the slope protection works. It was learned further that this year’s activities will proceed within this month after the DPWH-SLDEO completed the bidding process.
The source added that presently, the road is passable to some four-wheel cars and motorcycles except for the two-kilometer section which requires blasting of rocks. The lady district engineer said that DPWH pushed for safer alternative road to San Ricardo after noticing that more buses and rolling cargoes use the Benit Port in San ricardo town instead of nearby Liloan Port considering the former’s proximity to Surigao. Sea travel from San Ricardo to Lipata port in Surigao del Norte takes an hour, a way shorter compared to more than three hours of travel time through Liloan Port. (with reports from DPWH/PIA8-SoLeyte)
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) 3378719/3377301 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
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Managing Editor Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. Contributors All PIA Information Officers of Regions 6, 7 & 8 Production and Layout Edson J. Baùares 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