Vol 6
Issue 11
In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS
DENR - EMB 6 Director Atty. Jonathan Bulos, DENR 6 ARD Jesse Vego, 2015 Gawad EMB Awardee Sr. Carolina Agravante, SPC and Robinsons Place Mall Operations Manager Kristin Hortelano lead the ceremonial switching off of lights for the Earth Hour 2016 at Robinsons Place Iloilo Fountain Area, March 19. (PIA Iloilo)
March 14-20, 2016
Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8
BIR intensifies tax campaigns to meet target ILOILO CITY, March 22 (PIA6)—The Bureau of Internal Revenue Region 11 said it is intensifying the implementation of its tax campaign programs to neet the target for 2016. BIR Region 11 covers Iloilo City and Guimaras and the provinces of Aklan, Roxas City in Caoiz and San Jose in Antique. It recently launched its 2016 tax campaign themed ―Angat Pa Pinas‖ calling on all taxpayers to pay taxes correctly and on time. ―With the theme, we seek to instil in the Filipinos the importance of playing a major role in shaping the future of the country,‖ BIR-11 Director Esmeralda Tabule said during the launch. ―This year‘s campaign is also our way of showing that we are grateful for the cooperation of the tax payers,‖ Tabule added. She said that BIR-11 has collected over P9-billion in 2015, about seven percent higher compared to the region‘s collection of almost P8.5-billion in 2014.
As of the first two months of this year, the region has already collected a total of 1,714,704,014.96, which is 36.01 percent higher than last year‘s collection of P1,260,674,698.03, for the same period. BIR-11 is keeping the momentum by intensifying implementation of its various programs, like Oplan Kandado, Run After Tax Evaders, monitoring the withholding tax compliance of Withholding Agents, updating of BIR form 2305, Oplan AIR or the Ako Isyu Resibo and Resibo Mo Buasdamlag Ko. Director Tabule said that taxpayers are not just paying taxes for their generation but for the next generations. Meanwhile, Nelson Aspe, BIR deputy commissioner for Operations, said a total of 29 million taxpayers are registered with the BIR and about 9.8 are income taxpayers. The BIR targets to collect P2.026-trillion to augment the three P3-trillion budget of the national government for 2016. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)
NHA erects 478 units in five Bohol towns More on Region 6, pages 2-3. Also CLICK Here…
CENTRAL VISAYAS
The Provincial Commission on Women-Negros Oriental has organized and facilitated a workshop to voice out women's opinions and contribute some advocacies in public services in celebration of Women's Month this March held at the Provincial Convention Center, Dumaguete City. (PIA7-NEGOR)
More on Region 7, pages 4-5. Also CLICK Here…
EASTERN VISAYAS
DOH Sec Janette Loreto-Garin in Southern Leyte, March 22, 2016 holding a ceremonial turn-over of Tsekap (Tamang Serbisyo para sa Kalusugan ng Pamilya) to Barangay Health Stations through their BHWs, Barangay Captains, among other health personnel.
More on Region 8, pages 6-7. Also CLICK Here...
By Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, March 21 (PIA) — The National Housing Authority (NHA) completed 478 housing units in Bohol, allocating P40.7 million for five Bohol towns aside from the P378 million it spent for implementing housing projects for families affected by the 2013 earthquake. In an NHA Visayas Management Office report as of February 29, 2016 which was furnished to the Philippine Information Agency, the government‘s lead housing assistance agency said from 2011-2016, they have facilitated the construction of housing units in Tangnan, Panglao, Barangay Remedios Danao, Talibon, Getafe and Carmen. A housing project set to rise in Dagohoy with the NHA committing to build 125 housing units however encountered problems. The cost of construction has considerably risen, necessitating an updated unit cost estimates based on the prevailing prices of construction materials, stated the report submitted by NHA 7 Regional Manager Gavino Figuracion. For this, the project stalled. The People‘s Organization implementing the project for NHA however has reportedly prepared the proposed variation order for his approval and are now preparing the documents for the re bidding process, Figuracion said. The project is expected to cruise on as soon as the NHA GM approves and the bidding is done and successful. In Tangnan Panglao, NHA has completed 42 housing units for Tangnan District Housing Project in December of 2012.
The Tangnan Project had the government housing agency setting aside P2.44 million for the 42 units, to which the Local Government Unit is paying quarterly amortization for the loan amount of P81, 549 for ten years, according to the NHA report. In Barangay Remedios in Danao, NHA also put up in its phase 1 some 141 housing units for Bag-ong Paglaum Resettlement Project and allocated P9.315 million. Right now, the NHA awaits the survey approval for the 100 physically completed project so it can facilitate a fast awarding of the houses to future beneficiary occupants. In Talibon, NHA set up CPG Ville Housing Project building 153 housing units putting in P6.944 million. An LGU subdivision survey and titling is now on, NHA said. In Getafe, the Kapit-Bahayan Resettlement Project costs the government P10.011 million for the 101 housing units earmarked for the town. To date, only 99 of the housing units is completed while the first progress billing is stalled due to failure of the LGU as yet to comply with the DENR‘s environmental compliance certificates. On the other hand, Carmen Resettlement Project is still ongoing and the NHA is set to complete 191 units, as only 43 have been completed. The NHA also assured that land development in the area is ongoing, and the works include road concreting projects. All in all and with Dagohoy set for completion in 2016, plus the balance of houses in Getafe and Carmen, Bohol would be getting 753 housing units by the year-end. (mbcn/rac/PIA-7/Bohol)
Attitude, passion important in going into business, says DTI By Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 17 (PIA) -- Aside from financial capital, a person‘s behavior and interests are also prime factors to consider if one is seriously contemplating to try the challenges of having a business one can call his or her own. Money should not be ruled out, but then again, this does not mean anyone who lacks cash cannot venture and take risks, said Mike Nunez, provincial director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Personality traits or habits like working beyond the regular 8-hour day, willingness to be on 24/7 time mode, and a burning desire for a hobby, skill, service, or idea to acquire life and bring fair monetary returns are as vital as having a capital to invest, Nunez said during the live dydm Kapihan sa PIA last week. It is for this purpose, on enlightening prospective entrepreneurs, that the Negosyo Center was opened, to give advice for those really interested, Nunez added. He said the first Negosyo Center in the province opened in the city in November last year, and since then the
two business counselors assigned there, Ivy Balinkit and Hazel Miro, has been interacting with some groups and individuals. Republic Act 10644 authored by Sen. Bam Aquino and passed in July last year mandated the creation of a Negosyo Center in every municipal or city local government unit. For Southern Leyte province, three more Negosyo Centers are slated to open this year, and these are in Liloan next month- April , Sogod in May after the elections, and at Hinunangan in August, Nunez informed. Nunez stressed that Negosyo Centers act like a professional entity where people can go for consultation, much like instances when people get sick so they go to a doctor, or for legal matters, to a lawyer. Nunez said they will be referred to financial institutions where they can possibly borrow money in addition to their savings, or they may have relatives that have money to burn, looking for anything worth investing. Or they may tap OFW friends or family members with extra funds, Nunez also advised. (mmp, PIA8-Southern Leyte)
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WESTERN VISAYAS
PRO-6 intensifies security for Lent By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, March 22 (PIA6) --- The Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 said that security measures are in full swing for the Holy Week commemorations. n a m e d i a i n t e r v i e w , P R O - 6 entrance and exit of identified areas including Meanwhile, the local government spokesperson Supt. Gilbert Gorero said the Parola Wharf where personnel from the unit of Jordan in Guimaras said that that a major event security framework is Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) are also they are expecting a huge volume of local and implemented by PRO-6 Regional Director deployed. foreign tourists to witness the 41st edition of Bernardo Diaz to ensure peace and order and Additional policemen from the Iloilo City their religious event on Good Friday, March public safety during the observance of the Holy Police Office will also help in the maintenance 25. Week. of peace and order in Guimaras. Pagtaltal sa Guimaras is an annual Lenten He said that more police personnel will be Aside from the PCG, the PRO-6 is also presentation staged by the townspeople of deployed in areas where major activities are coordinating with the Land Transportation Jordan patterned to Oberammergau in South conducted such as the famous reenactment of Office, Land Transportation Franchising Bavaria, Germany. the crucifixion of Jesus Christ dubbed ―Ang Regulatory Board, Department of Public Considered as a Good Friday Pagtaltal sa Balaan Bukid‖ in the island-province Works and Highways, and the Maritime highlight, it depicts the final act of of Guimaras. Industry Authority to ensure comprehensive play when Jesus was taken off from the cross He said that there will be strict security coverage and other necessary public and laid on his mother's lap. (JCM/LTP/ enforcement of security measures in the safety services this Holy Week. PIA-Iloilo).
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PhilHealth affirms stability of funds By Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique, March 22 (PIA6) - - PhilHealth Antique affirmed that the financial standing of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is robust and stable despite reports of doubts on the capacity of PhilHealth to sustain its funds to pay the benefits of the members.
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unie Sabusap, Social Health Insurance Officer (Provincial Head) of PhilHealth Antique affirmed the statement of President and Executive Officer Alexander Padilla that PhilHealth funds are robust, healthy and substantial as ever. As long as we are doing our jobs in the collection of premium contributions from the stakeholders, private and government sector PhilHealth will remain stable Sabusap said As mentioned by Padilla PhilHealth has reserved funds for the payment of our premiums, thus the public should not panic, said Sabusap.
PhilHealth is trying to look into the implications of the issue and double their efforts to ensure PhilHealth members will enjoy the benefits that they deserve. As of January 31, 2016, PhilHealth coverage summed up to 107 percent with the total of 634,804 covered members based on the projected population for 2016 of 595,291. All 12 hospitals in Antique both public and private are accredited by PhilHealth plus the 18 Rural Health Centers which are accredited for some basic services such as Primary Health Care, TB DOTS and Maternity Benefit Package.
With the accreditation of these Health Service Providers, we assured the members that we are capable of paying the benefit package that the members are entitled to once they are confined or need to avail of the services of the health facility. In 2015, PhilHealth Antique has paid the total of P311, 834,943.35 benefit payment to the members while in January 2016 Antique has a total benefit payment of P34, 241,258 with 3,169 claims paid. PhilHealth Antique has satellite office in Culasi, Antique at the compound of the Culasi District Hospital. (JCM/PSM/PIA6Antique)
Earth Hour should be done everyday, says DENR-EMB By Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. ILOILO CITY, March 21 (PIA6) – Earth Hour should not be celebrated for just an hour once a year but everyday as we take actions against climate change, according to DENR-Environmental Management Bureau-6 Director lawyer Jonathan Bulos in his message at the Earth Hour 2016 event on March 19 here.
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o DENR Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Jesse Vego, going beyond the one-hour event also means taking other efforts to really complete the satisfaction over actions to address climate change. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region VI and EMB here together with the World Wildlife Fund for Nature and local partners and stakeholders led the local observance of Earth Hour at Robinsons Place Iloilo, March 19. Bulos added that Earth Hour is not just switching off of lights but it is the switching on of our minds, development of awareness, spreading of knowledge on climate change and acceptance of our role and taking action against climate change. We are part of the climate change
problem through our daily activities that contribute to emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and part of the action is to control these activities, Bulos said. Sister Carolina Agravante, president of St. Paul University Iloilo and recipient of EMB-6‘s ―1st Lunhaw Dahon Award‖ last year for being an environmental hero, said that by damaging Mother Earth we seemed to be moving towards the darkness that once covered the Earth during the time of Creation. It is a darkness, according to Sister Carolina, of darkened hearts, careless hearts that have been darkened by the abuse and misuse of creation caused by our sins against the Commandments of God, against Nature, and against the commandment of love that Jesus endorsed to us before He died on the
cross. Sister Carolina was recognized by EMB-6 for her greening initiatives and for empowering the youth to make environmental changes. The event was highlighted by a countdown for the start of the hour-long event at 8:30 p.m., followed by the lighting of candles forming the Earth Hour + logo in front of the mall at the downtown here accompanied by a live musical entertainment. DENR-EMB6 also awarded a Certificate of Recognition to Robinsons Place Iloilo through Mall Operations Manager Ma. Kristin September Hortelano in acknowledgement of the 700 tree seedlings donated by the chain business establishment to DENR-6 for the Earth Day tree planting activity on April 22. (JCM/ JSC-PIA6)
WESTERN VISAYAS Darker colored circulation
P100
3 banknotes
now
in
By Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, March 21 (PIA6) – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has started to issue a the P100 peso banknote with a darker color.
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SP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo said that they heeded the suggestions of the public to make the color of the P100-Piso banknote darker to avoid confusion and to make it more distinct from the P1000-Piso banknote. On February 1 this year, the 100-Peso banknote has already a darker mauve or violet color, he said. ―Compared to the current color of the
100-Piso banknote in circulation, the new 100-Peso banknote will have darker mauve or violet color on the obverse and reverse sides,‖ Guinigundo said, adding that all the other features of the said banknote will remain the same. He also urged the public not to rely on the color of the banknotes but to read the figure contained therein so that they will not be confused.
The BSP has been conducting financial literacy program to various sectoral groups to provide the public with the distinctive features of the New Generation Currency banknotes. Guinigundo, who was recently here in Capiz for a financial literacy program to multi-purpose sectoral groups in the province, appealed to the media to help in the dissemination of important information and advocacies of the BSP. (JCM/JBG/PIA6)
Activities to counter El Nino effects intensified By Carlson B. Alelis NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, March 21 (PIA6) – The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) is countering the effects of El Niño which has already resulted in a total more than 220.1 million worth of damages to valued crops and production losses, as of March 15.
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rovincial Senior Agriculturist Dina Genzola said OPA is regularly monitoring the fields in the province, along with the mobilization of the agricultural extension workers, crop management team and the activation of the Bantay Peste Brigades. In terms of mitigating measures, OPA continues to conduct its orientation on climate change and on how to mitigate and address the dry spell, she said. OPA has already linked with some
National Government Agencies, particularly the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Labor and Employment. Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala led the distribution of P 425 million-worth of farm projects and assistance earlier this month at Bago City, where 5,000 farmers attended the Farmers‘ Congress at the Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Coliseum. Meanwhile, OPA has coordinated with DOLE to validate the number of farmers affected by El Niño so that they can implement
the Cash for Work Program, DOLE's emergency employment program. Of the P 220.1 million of damages to valued crops and production losses, 6,174 hectares of land and 7,063 farmers were affected. The breakdown of the damages and loses are as follows: rice – P 212 million, corn – P3 million, high-valued crops (vegetables and orchard) P 4.661 million and fishery - P985,000. (JCM/CBA/PIA6 -Negros Occidental)
PVAO proposes turning memorial shrine a tourism zone By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, March 22 (PIA6)—The Balantang Memorial Cemetery National Shrine deserves to be a tourism zone because of the story of heroism and gallantry that visitors should know.
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peaking during the 71st anniversary of the Liberation of Panay, Veterans Affairs Office Administrator Ernesto Carolina said Ilonggos should lobby to make the Balantang Memorial Cemetery National Shrine a place where tourists go and visit to experience their history. ―Let those who visit find the common link between history and people, those who fought for freedom in this corner of the country,‖ Carolina said. He told Ilonggos, war veterans, their families and the police and the military, to visit the place often. ―The lives of your heroes are here told in the memorial shrine and yours is the obligation to preserve them,‖ Carolina added. In recalling history, Carolina said that the Balantang Shrine
was built in honor and memory of the gallant men and women of the 6th Military District under the command of Gen. Macario Peralta, who liberated the island of Panay from the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II. It is the only military cemetery built outside of Metro Manila and the site of the bloodiest revolution, which lasted for more than a month. It was declared a national shrine in 1994. Its features include the 64 feet MD Pylon which stands at the center of the shrine bearing the National Historical Commission Marker dedicated to the freedom fighters of Panay; the Wall of Memories unveiled in 2008, which bears the name of 2,421 freedom fighters who perished Iduring the Pacific War. Further, there is also the Museum which
displays World War II documentary pictures, relics and ammunitions, a bust of Gen. Peralta and his personal memorabilia. In the shrine is the Peralta Hall which houses the administration building and the Veterans Hall, and at the far end is the tomb of Gen. Peralta and his wife Natividad. Meanwhile, Carolina, who is also the Defense Undersecretary, asked Ilonggos to maintain the cleanliness and sanctity of the shrine and preserve it for the next generations. ―On top of it, I urge you to be ambassadors of the shrine, tell people about it, let them learn of real love of country as shown by our heroes buried in this place and those who are still living to tell their stories,‖ he added. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)
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CENTRAL VISAYAS
TESDA-LTI to offer scholarship programs for summer 2016 By Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR, March 17 (PIA) -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority—Lazi Technical Institute (TESDA-LTI) now accepts scholarship applicants for summer classes under the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP).
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his is a good news to the out of school youth, the returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), college undergraduates and college graduates who would wish to acquire knowledge and skills in technical vocational education and thereafter be part of the Filipino workforce, says Elsa Apiag of the LTI here. The TWSP is designed towards filling up the skills gaps and job requirements of priority industries and sectors with high employment demand, improving the reach of quality TVET to the grassroots and encouraging technical-vocational institutions to offer pro-
grams in higher qualifications catering to in-demand industry requirements. This shall be supportive of the government‘s thrust of rapid, inclusive and sustained economic growth, she said. The LTI has just received the approved Qualification Map for TWSP with the following registered programs and schedule to offer: Food and Beverage Services (FBS) NC II (April 4, 2016 to June 3, 2016); Housekeeping NC II (April 4, 2016 to June 17, 2016); Bartending NC II (April 11, 2016 to June 10, 2016); Bread and Pastry Production NC II (April 25, 2016 to May 20, 2016); and,
Cookery NC II (May 16, 2016 to July 8, 2016). The scholarship is of free training and assessment fees, but definitely no allowances given. Applicants must be at least highsSchool or Alternative Learnins Sytem (ALS) graduates. He or she has not been a TWSP scholar for two times before, nor a PESFA grantee. LTI is the only TESDA supervised school in Region VII. For more details about enrollment requirements please visit us at Tigbawan, Lazi Siquijor. You may also reach us thru our official cel #09177792429 or thru our LTI facebook account.(EApiag-LTI) (rac/ PIA7-Siquijor w/ reports from EAApiag/LTI)
DOST Siquijor, entreps ink MOAs on tech upgrading, assistance By Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR, March 21 (PIA) -- In a move to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) increase their productivity and enhance competitiveness, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) here signed agreements with several entrepreneurs for technology upgrading of processing equipment and other relevant assistance through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). he agreements were signed by Corporation through its President Elvie R. DOST and witnessed by DOST Siquijor PSTC Provincial Science and Technology Villaver and Manager Raul Villaver staff. Director Engr. Mario E. de la Peña signed the MOA with DOST for the Also present during the ceremony was and parties of the identified firms. project "Upgrading the information Assistant Regional Director of DOST-7 for Elena Ibera, proprietor of Elena's Bakery a n d communications t e c h n o l o g y Technical Operations Division Engr. Jesus F. and Pasalubong Center, and witness Teresita equipment of Siquijor Island Cable Zamora, Jr. Maglangit signed the MOA with DOST for the TV Systems Corporation in Pangi, Siquijor, The firms had been registered project "Improving the Baking Technology of Siquijor". to the Department of Trade and Elena's Bakery and Pasalubong Center for On the other hand, Larena Triad Coffee Industry (DTI), Bureau of Internal Revenue Efficiency and Quality Products". Shop through its proprietor Dr. Elena Masayon (BIR), and the respective local government Dongon Balababa Enterprises, through and manager Maricar Masayon signed the MOA units. its proprietor Ernesto D. Balababa II and with DOST for the project entitled "Upgrading They were also operating for the last witness Genara Dongon, signed the MOA with the Baking Technology of Larena Triad Coffee three years as evident in the submitted audited DOST for the project "Technology Upgrading Shop in Larena, Siquijor". financial statements. for Furniture Products of Dongon N The signing of the MOAs will seal the SETUP is one of the flagship Balababa Enterprises in Tacloban, Siquijor, assistance of DOST to this enterprises. programs of DOST. (rmn/rac/PIA7 Siquijor". The event was held at the Provincial -Siquijor/Engr. Reinhold Jek Y. Abing/ Siquijor Island Cable TV Systems Science and Technology Center (PSTC) of DOST-Siquijor)
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DILG-NegOr sets sked for simultaneous barangay assembly By Roi Anthoni B. Lomotan NEGROS ORIENTAL, March 18 (PIA) – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) here has set the date for the conduct of the first simultaneous barangay assembly in the province on March 26.
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he DILG is reminding all barangay captains as well as city and municipal chief executives throughout the province to hold a barangay assembly on the abovementioned date. According to Chapter 5, Section 397 of the Local Government Code, all barangays in should conduct barangay assembly at least twice a year to discuss different programs, achievements and other issues concerning the barangay. According to DILG-Negros Oriental information officer Kate Ayroso, barangay assemblies aim to strengthen the relationship
between the government and community for more efficient delivery services to residents of the community. Aside from the ―actual residents‖ of the barangay, those who are residing there within 6 months and residents 15 years old and above, members of church groups and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) can also participate in the barangay assembly. Meanwhile, Ayroso disclosed that the DILG has identified four showcase or model barangays throughout the province. She explained these barangays have exhibited good governance, active citizen
participation in governance and strong relationship with religious organizations to boost grass roots participation based on the guidelines set by the department. The four barangays are Barangay Motong and Mangnao in Dumaguete City, Barangay Trinidad in Guihulngan City and Barangay Bagtic in Mabinay town. The schedule of barangay assemblies in these village s is as follows: March 14, for Brgy. Bagtic, March 21 for Brgy. Trinidad, March 26 for Brgy. Motong, March 27 for Brgy. Mangnao.(mbcn/ral/PIA7-Negros Oriental)
CENTRAL VISAYAS
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DOH turns over TSeKap package to health stations By Elvira C. Bongosia TAGBILARAN CITY, March 22 (PIA) -- Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Janette Garin turned over yesterday the Tamang Serbisyo para sa Kalusugan ng Pamilya or TSeKap package to 418 accredited barangay health stations in Bohol.
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he TSeKap package contains digital blood pressure apparatus, non-contact thermometer, glucometer, nebulizer, stethoscope, and dressing set. Garin was the guest speaker during the Barangay Health Workers (BHW) Congress 2016 on March 21 held at the Bohol Wisdom School Gymnasium in Tagbilaran City. The health secretary assured that DOH is also providing the TSeKaP package in
school-based stations for those towns where there are no barangay health stations for now. Garin also reminded BHWs on the availability of maintenance medication for Hypertensive and Diabetic patients at rural health centers. She emphasized that these health programs display the national government‘s will, under the leadership of President Benigno ‗Noynoy‘ Aquino III, to reach out and empower citizens to become active
participants in governance. During the congress, Gov. Edgar Chatto underscored the role of BHWs in the community. Barangay health workers are the frontline in primary health care as they keep a data board and spot map for health condition of residents, as well as monitor and report health issues and concerns to health authorities, according to Chatto. (rmn/ecb/PIA7-Bohol/ with reports from EdcomBohol)
DSWD7 receives award, Kalahi-CIDSS inaugurated By Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, March 21 (PIA) -- The Regional Development Council (RDC-7) awarded the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for its implementation of the Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services – Millennium Challenge Corporation (KC-MCC). SWD 7 Regional Director Ma. Evelyn Kalahi-CIDSS is a community-driven Diomedes Magada said expressed appreciation Macapobre accepted the best development project implemented by the for the projects that can help the barangay implemented project 2015 award for Department of Social Welfare and residents of Candoni. KC-MCC in recent RDC meeting. Development. The community volunteers also expressed DSWD7 has been implementing Meanwhile, three Kalahi- CIDSS their gratitude for the projects, Julieta Kalahi-CIDSS MCC since 2011 in the provinces sub-projects were inaugurated and Gambalan Barangay Sub-Project Management of Bohol and Negros Oriental. handed-over to communities of Candoni, Ne- Committee (BSPMC) chair said they helped A total of 716 Kalahi-CIDSS community gros Occidental. each other in implementing project despite not sub-projects in 25 municipalities in the region The projects include the Barangay Health having a salary. were funded by the MCC with a total funding Center of Barangay Cabia-an, the kindergarten Barot said the volunteer-beneficiaries and support of P641,237,493.50. building of Galicano Temporosa-I Memorial officials are hopeful that the Kalahi-CIDSS The sub-projects include day care centers, Elementary School (GTIMES) and the solar program will continue helping the barangays school buildings, water systems, drainage dryer with warehouse of Barangay Caningay. where the priority problems and needs are facilities and basic access facilities like Farm to Social marketing officer Beb Christelle addressed. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental/ Market Roads, footpaths and footbridges. Barot of DSWD-NIR said Candoni Vice Mayor DSWD-7)
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NDC preserves threatened native trees in Negros Island By Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, March 18 (PIA) – Energy Development Corporation (EDC) reported that through its cloning facility, it produced more than 30,000 native tree species in Negros Island. orporate Communications Officer species in 10 years. Norreen Bautista, head of EDC's Community Frances Ariola of EDC said almost From 2009-2015, EDC was able to plant Partnerships, External Relations and 2,000 of native trees were planted in its close to two million trees on 2,700 hectares in Watershed Management (CREW) group in 25 partner schools in Negros Island. different areas of Negros Oriental and Negros Negros Island. Two Yakal-saplungan trees that were Occidental under its BINHI program. With its Biodiversity Conservation planted in RM Araneta Elementary School in This was done with the help of its and Monitoring Program (BCMP) that Mailum, Bago City, Negros Occidental in 2009 farmers' associations that all share the same it began in 2008 in partnership with have already produced seeds in 2014 and passion for environmental preservation. the University of the Philippines Institute of 2015. Through BINHI, EDC is able to create Biology, Ariola said the company was able to Ariola said EDC has used science and more carbon sinks for climate change identify endangered native trees within the relied heavily on healthy watersheds in its mitigation. company's watershed areas in its areas of geothermal reservations not only to protect This further lowers the company's CO2 operation and have taken the necessary the environment but also to sustain its emissions and helps the country get closer to measures to preserve them and bring them geothermal source. its target of reducing its CO2 emissions by 70% back to abundance. In Negros Island alone, the company has in 2030. It is said the BCMP results indicate that already planted 1.5 million trees on 2,300 "Our country is one of the most more than 70 of these 96 threatened species hectares from 1983 to 2008. vulnerable to the impacts of climate were preserved through our watershed In 2009, EDC stepped up its reforestation change. We all need to work together to save management efforts in Negros Island, including efforts through its BINHI greening legacy and our planet. Greening Negros Island by growing our BINHI greening legacy and made use of science to focus on planting at native trees and getting more power from Adopt-a-Wildlife Species program. (rmn/jct/ least 10,000 hectares of premium native tree geothermal energy is the way to do it," said PIA7-Negros Oriental)
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EASTERN VISAYAS
Groups call on adults to ‗Discipline Children without Harm‘ By Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, March 18 (PIA) ---- Advocates urge parents, teachers, community leaders, and other adults in Eastern Samar to practice positive and non-violent methods of disciplining children without harm.
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he Positive and Non-Violent Discipline Approach helps in nurturing life-long skills such as critical thinking, healthy management of emotions, effective communication and empathy. It opposes the use of harmful disciplining methods that create fear, generate anger, lower the child‘s self esteem, and train the child to use violence. In an interview with PIA, Mrs. Shirley Valdez, Coalition of Advocates for Children‘s Rights in Eastern Samar (CARES) said ―violent methods have negative effects. Children do
not want to experience violence, just as much as adults do not want to be hit, pinched, or humiliated.‖ Communication plays a vital role in the Positive and Non-Violent Discipline Approach. Parents and teachers need to practice proper explanation and active listening. They also need to put themselves in the child‘s situation in order to properly communicate with the child. According to Jayson Lozano, Plan International‘s Project Manager for the Positive Discipline Project Manager, Positive and
Non-Violent Discipline Approach varies from situation to situation and from child to child. It requires time and understanding from the adults. Hurting the children seems to be the convenient way because it provides immediate ‗solution‘, but this method harms the children‘s physical, social, emotional and mental state. The Positive Discipline Project is a three-year initiative that aims to encourage families, teachers, barangay officials and other members of the community to practice non-violent means of guiding children‘s behavior. (SDC/PIA-E. Samar)
LTO - Eastern Samar spearheads Road Safety Dialogue By Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, March 18 (PIA) --- The Land Transportation Office (LTO), Borongan District Office Chief Narcisa Tabarnero disclosed that their office is happy about the response of the Eastern Samar Peace and Development Forum (ESPDF) on the issue of road safety during the Road Safety Dialogue in March 09, 2016.
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ccording to her, the group recognizes that road accidents are one of the serious humanitarian disasters. The road and the activities that happens in it are already a part of our lives, that‘s why road accidents should be given a proper solution — hence, the dialogue was realized. She further said that road safety mandates to ensure that laws will be agreed upon,
discussed, and implemented so as to guarantee its efficiency and effectiveness. In line with the road safety dialogue, it is but timely since the mortality rate of road accidents is now higher than the mortality rate of malaria. An immediate negotiation should be done and legal instruments such as construction and technical inspections, road signs and signals, and traffic rules should be implemented and be followed by the public.
Meanwhile, LTO- Regional Office 08 Director Edgar Catarongan said that traffic rules should be obeyed not just because it is stated by the law but because it is a part of our social responsibility. ―Poverty should not be an excuse to do illegal deeds and if everybody is united in obeying traffic laws, the peace and development of the province will be achieved‖ Catarongan further said. (SDC/PIA-E. Samar)
Full blast rehab of NMP‘s facilities set this year By Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte March 17(PIA) – In its continued effort to provide excellent maritime training courses for Filipino seafarers and other maritime allied personnel, the National Maritime Polytechnic based here has set goals for this year.
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n the 1st Quarterly NMP-Media Partnership Forum held Thursday at NMP conference room, NMP Training Complex, Cabalawan Tacloban City, NMP Executive Director Manuel C. Roldan said one of its target is the full rehabilitation or restoration of all facilities destroyed by super typhoon Yolanda in 2013. Included in the list for repair are the perimeter fence amounting to P75 million, staff houses worth P4.5 million, general services
motorpool building, ratings dormitory worth P11.2 million, officers dormitory, school buildings and fire fighting building. He expressed optimism that all projects will be fully implemented within this year to provide the seafarers a good training venue to ensure that graduates of the institution possess the skills and training as required in the Standard of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Convention (STCW). Meanwhile, 95 percent of the equipments
donated by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) were already completed and delivered to the maritime institution such as the enclosed lifeboat, safety equipments, the communication equipment to the high seas and the engine simulator. What is lacking is the rescue boat which is expected to arrive soon. The estimated cost of equipments donated by JICA to NMP amounts to 265 Million Yen. (ajc/PIA-8)
EASTERN VISAYAS
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‗Juanas‘ hold parade to close Women‘s Month celebration By Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 17 (PIA) – Around 128 women (―Juanas‖ in GAD parlance) in Maasin City participated the Women‘s Month Culmination Program held March 16, 2016 at the city‘s gymnasium. The event was spearheaded by the city's Social Welfare Services Office.
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parade around the city proper participated by the PNP, BFP-Maasin Fire Station women fire officers, the social Welfare office staff and personnel, kicked off the day activity followed by a celebration of a Holy Mass before the short program proper. The women‘s Month celebration for this year carries the theme, ―Kapakanan ni Juana, Isama sa Agenda." One of the highlights of the month's long celebration was the booth display competition of different products produced in the province. The participating women, clustered in 4 teams displayed their products for the booth display competition featuring food products like bocarillo, salvaro, sortidos, banana/java chips, ensalada, home-made peanut butter, to name a few; farm products such as
sweet potatos, banana, kamoteng kahoy, and the like; and souvenir items such as headbands, baskets, rosary beads, candle holder, among others. The products display competition was based on the criteria as follows: Physical Appearance – 30%; Number of Products displayed – 30%;and 40% for the number of women-participants for each of the team. The judges of the competition were Children/Women‘s Desk Officer Jennifer Pagula of the PNP-Maasin Police Station, BFP Fire Officer III Ma. Elena Galeon and Department of Social Welfare and Development -8 Planning Officer Gilbert Villamor, who delivered the inspiration message. The CSWDO led by Ma. Febe Sta Cruz
also prepared prizes for the booth display winners such as P2,000 for the 1st prize, P1,500 for the 2nd and P1,000 for the 3rd prize winner and a P500 consolation prize for the 4th winner, CSWDO Women Focal Person Jhade Maturan informed. Villamor, in his inspirational message said that the Philippines have plenty of laws concerning women. He asked the crowd to identify their concerns ―kung ano-ano ang mga kapakanan ninyo (referring to the women-participants) na pwedeng isama sa Philippine Agenda.‖ He added that every woman should learn how to develop her potentials in order to help other women, particularly those who are in need. (rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)
Leyte candidates sign Integrity Pledge for SAFE elections By Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 22 (PIA) – Local candidates in the Province of Leyte expressed their commitment to peaceful elections by signing an Integrity Pledge, Monday at Palo Metropolitan Cathedral, Palo Leyte.
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he joint peace covenant signing for SAFE elections on May 9 2016 was initiated by Leyte Provincial Election Office with the support of the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the church through the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV). Lawyer Maria Corazon Montallana, Leyte Provincial Election Officer said the signing of the peace covenant is one way of showing
commitment and support to attain a peaceful, orderly and fair and honest elections. ―If candidates will commit this into their hearts, it will be a big help in achieving a credible elections,‖ Montallana said. Local candidates vying for governor, vice-governor, board members and congressmen from 1st to 5th district in Leyte attended the covenant signing except for a few who had prior commitments.
Said covenant was followed with the COMELEC's briefing the candidate at Palo Municipal Hall where updates on the rules in filing of statement of expenditures and other campaign finance rules were taken. A demo on vote counting machine was also conducted. To date, Montallana informed that of the five congressional districts in Leyte, no election hotspot area was considered by the Comelec. (ajc/PIA-8)
Adolescent and Youth Development Center opens in Taft By Samuel Candido BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar (PIA6) -- The Adolescent and Youth Development Center (AYDC) spearheaded by the Commission on Population-Regional Office 08 (POPCOM-RO-8) in Taft this province was opened recently.
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t is the first in Eastern Visayas said POPCOM RO 08 Information Officer Reyan Arinto because of the commitment indicated by the Local Government Unit (LGU) to have the Teen Center built in their municipality since it has a record of high prevalence of teenage pregnancy. Through this center, POPCOM RO 08 hopes that they will be able to spread the knowledge on early sexual engagement — that oftentimes results in an early pregnancy and early marriage of adolescents.
POPCOM had given the center some communication materials, interactive materials, musical instruments, and sports equipment. Arinto however clarified that based on the 2002 Young Adult Fertility Survey, Region 08 had the second highest prevalence of teenage pregnancy in the country. But this data gradually lowered in the 2013 survey. He disclosed further that this could be the result of the intervention programs that POPCOM implemented. ―However, this does not mean that we
will stop our advocacy campaign on teenage pregnancy so that the region can maintain the downtrend standing‖, Arinto further said. Arinto calls on LGUs to coordinate with their office if they want to have a teen center built in their respective municipalities, just like the one in Taft. The teen center is located inside the municipal health office where there are available counselors and wherein trainings will be held as well for the peer educators. (SDC/ PIA-E. Samar).
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.
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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. BaĂąares 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