Vol 6
In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS
Ashley Fuentebella of Sto. Domingo Elementary School shows her winning poster after she bested 14 other contestants in the 2016 World Food Day On-The-Spot Poster Making Contest Regional Level held October 5 in Iloilo City. Also in the picture are DA 6 officials led by Regional Executive Director Engr. Remelyn Recoter (holding the trophy, 3rd from right).
More on Region 6, pages 2-3. Also CLICK Here…
CENTRAL VISAYAS
A Kapihan sa PIA was held October 5 at DENR-7 conference room, Government Center, Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City with panelists from DENR-7 (l-r) Enforcement Division OIC Forester Ariel Rica, Biologist/ Zoology Technician Mr. Rainier Manlegro to talk on RA 9147 “An act providing for the conservation and protection of wildlife resources and their habitats, appropriating funds therefor and for other purposes” and the updates on wildlife inventory in Cebu Zoo. #PartnerForChange (vvv/PIA Cebu)
October 3 - 9, 2016
Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8
Issue 40
9 EV Mayors complete DOH MLGP program Consuelo B. Alarcon MAKATI CITY, Oct. 1 (PIA) – Nine local government executives from Eastern Visayas successfully completed the Municipal Leadership and Governance Program (MLGP) of the Department of Health (DOH) during a colloquium ceremony, held Thursday, September 29, at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), Conference Center, Makati City. The colloquium ceremony is the final component of MLGP where local chief executives (LCEs) deliver their public narratives followed by a panel interview to assess understanding and application of bridging leadership. The graduates were four former mayors in Leyte namely Loreto Yu of Alang-Alang, Alden Avestruz of Barugo, Fe Renomeron of Burauen, and Manuel Sia-que of Dulag, Leyte; and the present mayors, Gemma Zosa of Sta. Margarita, Samar; Kathleen Prudenciado of Almagro, Samar; Marilou Latorre of Villareal Samar; Mario M. Nadera of Mondragon, Northern Samar; and Mark Biong of Giporlos, Eastern Samar Dr. Exuperia Sabalberino of the Department of Health regional office 8 said the Municipal Leadership and Governance Program is a one-year, two module program for local chief executives and municipal health officers (MHOs) which is centered on the World Health Organization’s six building blocks of health system. The six building blocks include good governance in the health sector, health service delivery, health workforce, health
information, access to essential medicines and healthcare financing. With MLGP, I was able to understand the six building blocks in the health system paving the way for the implementation of the health programs in accordance with the guidelines of the health department,” Former Mayor Alden Avestruz of Barugo Leyte said. Meanwhile, Mayor Loreto Yu of Alang-Alang said, while he felt sad because his term ended last June 30 as mayor in said municipality for many years, he was also contented for he did his best in giving the health services his constituents need. The mayors were accompanied by their respective municipal health officers during the colloquium ceremony. “MLGP was launched by DOH in order to capacitate the mayors and municipal health officers (MHOs) to address the millennium development goals (MDG) of reducing maternal and infant mortality, “Professor Jusie Lydia J. Siega-Sur, Assiciate Professor and MLGP Coordinator, University of the Philippines, Manila School of Health Sciences said. The program was initiated by the Department of Health in partnership with Zuellig Family Foundation and University of the Philippines Manila School of Health Sciences. To date, a total of 49 local chief executives in Eastern Visayas have already completed the MLGP program of the Department of Health. (PIA-8)
Duterte: Masskara gives Bacolod ‗identity‘ By Carlson B. Alelis BACOLOD CITY, Oct. 2 (PIA6) – President Rodrigo Dutere said that the colorful celebration of Masskara gives Bacolod City its own identity. Duterte, during the opening of this year’s festival, congratulated the people of Bacolod, saying that it is “one of the more colorful activities in any city in the Philippines.” Duterte recalled visiting the city twice to take part in the festivities during his tenure as the city mayor of Davao. “There was a time when we coincided with your Masskra, it’s really colorful and as mayor, I said it gives you identity different from the others,” he said, comparing the festival to Davao’s own Kadayawan Festival held every third week of August. He said he would ride his motorcycle during his visit here before. Duterte led the opening of the 37th edition of the Masskara Festival which was attended by government officials of this city led by City Mayor Evelio Leonardia and Congressman Greg Gasataya, the province led by Gov. Alfredo Marañon, Jr. as well as those from the other cities and towns. The President got a glimpse of what the festival has to offer as he witnessed a dance number featuring Masskara dancers. For his part, Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia said Masskara has grown to proportions beyond people’s wildest dreams. Leonardia said: “This festival, has sure exceeded all
our expectations, this is a major tourist attraction today, and there is no doubt about that. But more than just a tourist attraction, this has become an icon of Bacolod.”“It reflects our never–ending spirit of optimism,” he said. Leonardia introduced the President to the crowd that packed the public plaza in his first visit to the province, and to be specific, Bacolod City, since winning the elections in May this year. (JSC/ CBA/PIA6-Negros Occ.)
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte declares the 2016 Masskara Festival of Bacolod City formally open during his visit to the “City of Smiles” on October 2. Joining the President on stage are City Mayor Evelio Leonardia (extreme left) and other local officials and organizers of the event. (PIA6 Bacolood Infocen)
More on Region 7, pages 4-5. Also CLICK Here…
EASTERN VISAYAS
Huruhimangraw ha PIA with Mr Guillermo D. Lagbo, Statistical Specialist II, PSA who talked about programs of Philippine Statistic Authority @ DYMS Aksyon Radio, Catbalogan City on Oct. 5, 2016 (pics by JunArce)
More on Region 8, pages 6-7. Also CLICK Here...
Garay family bags Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya nat‘l award Elvira C. Bongosia BOHOL, Oct. 4 (PIA)--After several runners-up from Bohol in the previous national search, the Garay Family finally brought glory to Central Visayas region as they emerged this year's Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). DSWD Secretary Judy Taguiwalo presented the plaque of recognition and a cash prize of P30,000 to the Garay Family in Quezon CIty on October 1, which also coincides with the culmination of the Family Week celebration. The top five finalists chosen from the 18 Regional winners are Bulso family from Dipaculao, Aurora; Castillo family from Lemery, Batangas; Masamoc family of Aroroy, Masbate; Tacda family from Nueva Valencia, Guimaras; and Garay family of Jagna, Bohol. Vicente and Marissa Garay from the coastal Barangay of Can-upao, Jagna has seven children. Their eldest, Ivy, is an electrical engineering student who is expected to graduate this month. Next to her is Rose Marie who is now a third year college student taking up Bachelor of Education. Prince is in day care and the youngest, Vincent Ian, is only five months old. Aria Venice, Lee Mark and Vic Jun are the
children-beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino program who are enrolled in Bohol Institute of Technology-Jagna and Jagna Central Elementary School. Vicente is a fisherman and active in church and even serves as speaker of the Pre-Jordan Seminar. He was also recently tapped as one of the anti-drug addiction crusaders in their town following his personal success in letting go of his vices. Meanwhile, Marissa is a household helper and also an active parent leader of the Pantawid Pamilya and a member of the Local Poverty Reduction Action Team. Pantawid Pamilya is the conditional cash transfer of the Philippine government that invests in the education and health of indigent households with children aged 0-18. Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya is an annual search that acknowledges families who maintain strong family ties, demonstrate positive Filipino values and have a positive impact in the community where they reside. Since the start of the search last 2013, DSWD-7 family entries have consistently made it to the top five national finalists with the Torrentira Family of Sagbayan, Bohol as last year’s second runner-up. (rmn/ecb/PIA7-Bohol)
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WESTERN VISAYAS
PIA search for 2016 best campus publications on By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, Oct. 5 (PIA6) — College and high school publications in Western Visayas should now prepare their entries for the 2016 publications contests rolled out by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA6).
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he PIA has started the countdown for the College Press Conference on November 25, where the search for best publications in various categories, is part of the event. Atty. Ma. Janet Mesa, PIA Regional Director, said the holding of the COPRE is the peak of the campus journalism events of the PIA which started with a series of journalism seminar -workshops from July to September this year. “The publication of a paper is the expected output of the schools which participated in the workshops, where they are supposed to apply the journalistic writing skills they learned,” Mesa said. “We have more or less 80 publications vying
for awards in the COPRE,” she added. The major awards open are Best Magazine, Best Tabloid, Best Departmental Publication, Best Newsletter, Best Literary Folio, Best Multi-lingual Paper and Best Wall News. For 2016, the PIA has opened another major category, namely, Best Electronic Newsletter, as an option for those who may not be able to produce a paper due to time and financial constraints. “Meanwhile, the Wall News is the category that measures the level of application of development communication as this requires exposure to communities,” Mesa said. Other minor awards are the Best News Page, Best
Editorial Page, Best Filipino Page, Best Sports Page, Best Feature Page, Best Magazine Cover and Best Newspaper Layout. The awarding for these will be on November 25, at the Iloilo Grand Hotel, where the COPRE will also conduct journalistic on-the -spot writing contests. Topmost on the criteria for publication contests will be development content or message, mechanics, presentation/organization of ideas, adherence to journalistic writing style among others. More or less 450 student writers are expected to attend from schools in Panay and the Negros Island Region. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)
DOLE sets priorities for ENDO By Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique, Oct. 6 (PIA6) – Regional Director Salome O. Siaton of the Department of Labor and Employment 6 cited four priority establishments for the implementation of ENDO (End of Contractualization) such as Manufacturing, Malls, Hospitals, and Hotels/Restaurants/Food Chain.
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iaton said the government is serious in the implementation of ENDO upon the order of President Rodrigo Duterte during the Employers-Employee Forum on Tuesday organized by DOLE Antique attended by private employers/ establishments, workers organizations, Public employment Service Officers (from different towns) supported by the Provincial Government of Antique. She likewise echoed the directive of Secretary Silvestre Bello III on ENDO to uphold the rights of workers to security of tenure as well ensure their social coverage such as Social Security System, PhilHealth and PAGIBIG/Home Mutual Development Fund. However, she also placed emphasis on the
balance between the employers’ prerogative and the rights of employees for the economy to grow. While we are thinking of the economic gains of the employers which are the sources of our tax, DOLE is also tasked to look into employment relationships and to ensure rights and security of tenure of workers, according to Siaton. Particularly mentioned is the provision of Department Order No. 18-A or the Suspension of New Applicants as Contractors or Subcontractors and Labor Advisory No. 10 Series of 2016 or the Prohibition Against Labor Only Contracting. Siaton is optimistic of the government’s
target to cut ENDO by 50 percent before the end of 2016 and totally end contractualization in 2017. “We have already started to assess about 40 major establishments based on our priority target. A lot of companies have told us to regularize their workers, however, we need to see proofs such as list of workers and payrolls,” she said. Associations of employers like Iloilo Business Club and Chamber of Commerce and Industry have requested for an orientation on ENDO, she said. Governor Rhodora Cadiao and Mayor Elmer Untaran of San Jose during the forum likewise expressed support to ENDO. (JCM/PSM/ PIA6Antique)
DENR cites children‘s role in DRR-CCA By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA6) --- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources encouraged local government units to support the active involvement of children in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation (DRR-CCA) programs.
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n a forum dubbed “Strengthening Children’s participation in DRR-CCA with local government units” held recently at the Iloilo Convention Center, DENR Assistant Secretary Andres Moran said that children should be empowered to take part in initiatives, programs, and activities on disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation. “The future of human existence is based upon the children so we must equip them with skills,” he said. He said that children now are knowledgeable, advanced brought upon by digital technology, and are able to respond at a very young age.
“They see things that we don’t, they appreciate things that we are not aware of,” he stressed. He emphasized that the public particularly the adult population should have the patience and determination to listen to them and find out what they need. “We need to listen and pay attention to our children,” he said. Meanwhile, the forum spearheaded by Bata Muna Network Panay, in partnership with Save The Children Panay Program Office, aimed at elevating awareness of local chief executives and legislators on the role of children and youth in DRR-CCA programs and initiatives.
“Children should no longer be categorized as a vulnerable group but as partners of the LGUs in planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating programs for reduction of risks during emergencies,” according to Bata Muna Network Panay. It said that children are committed to be involved in DRRM initiatives on preparedness and preposition, advocacy and information dissemination, children and youth empowerment, and in planning and decision-making on issues concerning them. Bata Muna Network Panay is part of a national network of civil society organizations focused on children’s rights on children’s participation. (JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)
WESTERN VISAYAS
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PCSO office serves Aklanons, non-Aklanons alike By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, Oct. 6 (PIA6) -- The opening of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) in the province of Aklan in 2014 had been beneficial not only to Aklanons but also those from nearby provinces needing financial assistance for their hospitalization and medication.
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ccording to John Martin Philemon Alipao, Financial Management Officer I of PCSO-Aklan Branch, millions in financial assistance had been extended to people seeking help from the office since its opening in September 2014. Alipao said when the office opened on the last quarter of 2014 in Aklan, P3 million in financial assistance was availed by sick Aklanons, while in 2015, the office was able to extend some P21 million. As of August this year, Alipao said the PCSO in Aklan has shelled out some P20 million. The assistance, according to Alipao, is in the form of guarantee letters to hospitals where the patients had been confined and who cannot fully
pay their obligations. Alipao said the PCSO office here can guarantee or assist as much as P50,000 but those who need P200,000 to P300,000 in medical/ financial assistance must seek approval of the Manila office. Alipao said the PCSO has the Individual Medical Assistance Program where patients can avail of hemodialysis, CT Scan, 2D-Echo, Chemodialysis, medicines and other services. The PCSO also provides wheelchairs and prosthesis. To avail of the assistance, patients or their relatives must submit the following requirements, like medical abstract, statement of accounts/hospital bill, photocopy of valid ID of representative, endorsement letter from the
Social Welfare Assistant (SWA), Promissory Note from SWA, and Police Report for Medico Legal. Time of interview is from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., Monday to Friday. Besides Aklanons who flocked daily to the PCSO office for interviews, people from nearby provinces like Antique, Capiz, Romblon and Mindoro also seek assistance through the PCSO in Aklan. The PCSO is now holding office at the ground floor of the Provincial Capitol Annex Building, but soon, Alipao said they will have their own office in Barangay Estancia in Kalibo. Meanwhile, as of August 2016, the PCSO has a new chairman in the person of Retired Gen. Reynaldo Berroya. (JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)
NFA has enough funds for palay procurement By Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Oct. 6 (PIA6) – The government has sufficient funds to buy palay based on the farmers. This was the assurance of the National Food Authority amid harvest season.
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nformation Officer Mary Christie Hari-on of NFA Capiz said that 5,000 bags of palay were targeted to be procured by their agency in September. The intensive palay procurement is a government measure to ensure and establish manageable buffer stock, minimize importation, stabilize price levels and assure adequate and continuous rice supply. Hari-on said that NFA buys clean and dry palay at P17.00 per kilogram, aside from additional incentives such as delivery fee, drying incentive fee and cooperative development incentive fee.
She said that their warehouses in Bolo, Roxas City and in Dumalag and Sigma towns are open to buy the farmer’s palay produce. “To give ease on the requirement of farmers for palay delivery, they can directly go to the NFA Provincial Office for the issuance of a Farmer’s passbook for free by submitting his photo and that of his representative,” she said. For an individual farmer, he can submit a certification either from the barangay captain, Municipal Agriculture Office, National Irrigation Administration or Department of Agrarian Reform indicating the area planted to palay
and yield per hectare and whether the same is irrigated or not. She said that farmer’s cooperatives or organiz ation s only n eed to submit their registration certificates either from the Coop erati ve Devel op m en t Au th ori t y, Securities and Exchange Commission or any registration certificate from concerned government agencies for the issuance of Master’s Passbook, and the list of their farmer-members. On the other hand, walk-in farmers are allowed to deliver their palay harvest up to 200 bags. (JCM/JBG/PIA6)
RDC preps for ‗Weekend Tienda Sa Iloilo‘ Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. ILOILO CITY, Oct. 6 (PIA6) – The Regional Development Council-6 is preparing for a ―Weekend Tienda Sa Iloilo‖ here starting next month to facilitate markets for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), as well as create other economic benefits especially in terms of jobs and livelihood.
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he weekend tienda will also serve as a venue that would endeavor to make the best of Ilonggo cuisine and delicacies available to local and foreign visitors and promote home-grown producers or entrepreneurs. The RDC-6 committee led by National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) 6 Regional Director Ro-Ann Bacal is also working out the venue of the weekend market to provide the best possible location for the MSME products which have been recognized to have
contributed significantly to the region’s economy. RDC member-agencies and private and business organizations comprise the Committee spearheading the project. It is a street market or bazaar that opens only during daytime on weekends as distinguished from weekend night markets. The Iloilo weekend tienda, according to NEDA-6, will put on display and sale homegrown food products, handcrafted gift items, artworks of local artists, and organic and certified natural farm fresh poultry, vegetables, fruits, fisheries
and aquaculture products from the various municipalities in the province of Iloilo. It was learned from NEDA-6 that about 16,000 micro enterprises and small and medium businesses exist in the region as of 2015. The agency said assisting them in coming up with better services and a good variety of products by improving the processes of production and packaging will help them become economically self-sufficient and build successful or profitable undertakings. (JCM/JSC/ PIA6)
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CENTRAL VISAYAS
Mandaue, Lapulapu barangays attend DOE Power Patrol Seminar Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, Oct. 4 (PIA) — More than a hundred representatives from the barangays in Lapulapu City attended the Power Patrol Seminar for Households held here recently.
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fficials from barangays of the cities of Lapulapu and Mandaue attended the Power Patrol forum initiated by Department of Energy (DOE) in its campaign on energy efficiency and conservation. Lapulapu City Mayor Paz Radaza thanked DOE for the conduct of the Power Patrol Seminar as it makes her constituents learn about conserving energy. “Maminaw ta kay mu ubos gyud atong electricity bill (Let us listen because our electricity bills will lower),” Radaza said.
DOE Visayas Field Office Director Antonio Labios explained to the participants the agency’s thrusts in securing power supply for the entire country. He told them about the need for balance between renewable and conventional sources of energy. “We still need the coal-fired power plants along side natural sources like hydro and wind,” Labios said. Other topics include the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program (NEECP) and the Magna Carta for Residential
Electricity. A hit among the participants was the topic on Understanding the Electric Bill and Energy Efficiency and Conservation Tips. At the end of the program, the participants were made to recite the Power Patrol Oath. Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Deputy Director General Angelo Villar assured that the agency will always partner with DOE and the rest of the agencies in communicating the needed advocacies in the community.(rmn/fcc/PIA7-Cebu)
NegOr police intensifies anti-drugs operations Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Oct. 4 (PIA) – The Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NORPPO) has intensified its anti-drug operations campaign with an increasing number of arrests of drug pushers and users in the province.
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PO4 Mariel Abiera of NORPPO, in a meeting of NegOr Drug Abuse Prevention Council (NORDAPC) recently, reported that a total of 64 anti-drug police operations were conducted of which 53 drug pushers and 11 users arrested and four persons killed in August 2016. Police officer Abiera said the arrests are increasing "because all police stations are required at least two apprehensions a week for those persons involved in illegal drug activities.” With the 64 persons arrested, the police confiscated a total of 362.49 grams of shabu and 63.56 grams of marijuana with DDB (Dangerous Drug Board) worth of P3,623,900 in a buy bust and search warrant operations.
For the month of August, Abiera said the police filed 69 cases in court. In the same period, the Special Drug Court Branch 30 has a total of six cases promulgated with four convictions under Section 5 and Section 11 and two acquittals, reported Clerk of Court Atty. Joanna Utzurrum of Branch 30 Regional Trial Court in a regular meeting of NORDAPC. Utzurrum said two cases have been disposed and archived because the accused is at large. The two charged in violation of Section 5 which is the Sale of Dangerous Drugs and another two were in violation of Section 11, it’s the Possession of Dangerous Drugs under Republic Act 9165 or Comprehensive
Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. However, through Project Double Barrel and Oplan TokHang, a total of 11,936 of suspected drug users and pushers surrendered in respective police station as of September 13. Meantime, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) will hold its workshop on validation of target and watch list drug personalities on September 29 to 30 at the Provincial Convention Center. About a hundred law enforcers from police, military, and intelligence agencies are expected to participate in the workshop. The output of the workshop will be submitted to the regional and national PDEA office. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)
MARINA sets motorized banca registration TAGBILARAN CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA) -- The Maritime Industry Authority-7 will conduct on October 12 to 14 a mobile registration for unregistered motorized bancas, specifically in Panglao town.
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ARINA-Bohol officer Norma Enriquez said during the Kapihan sa PIA today that motorboats should be registered with the agency and the mobile registration will be conducted for island hopping as well as dolphin watching bancas and cruises and other motorized boats to legalize their operations. Enriquez encouraged local government units especially in Panglao to help disseminate this information on the campaign on registration of unregistered bancas. Enriquez further said operators should seek clearance from Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) before their motorized bancas depart
from their ports of origin, as the vessels are not supposed to operate commercially without authority. The drive against unregistered motorized boats for tourists has been intensified following the deadly accident involving a foreigner who died after being hit by a speedboat and his companion was left wounded. PCG Tagbilaran City Commander Benjie Quinisio said that for scenarios like this, it would be dangerous for motorized bancas to operate as unregistered vessels. "They have to register for the safety of the passengers and crew," he said, adding that the people should stop patronizing "colorum"
motorized bancas for their own good, Quinisio said. The owner of the motorized banca should also secure passenger insurance before being allowed to operate. The need for having a radio in the banca authorized by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) was also emphasized to prevent hostage and for the banca to be easily recognized if ever it sailed away. MARINA is an agency that works hand in hand with the PCG to integrate the development, promotion and regulation of the maritime industry in the country. (rmn/jac/ PIA7-Bohol)
CENTRAL VISAYAS
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Oct. 21 declared special non-working holiday in NegOr By Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Oct. 3 (PIA) -- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has officially declared October 21, 2016 as a special non-working holiday in the province of Negros Oriental through Presidential Proclamation No. 63 that was approved on September 19 through Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.
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his marks the celebration of the Buglasan Festival of Festivals in Negros Oriental on October 14 to 23 with more than 80 events lined up for the affair. Earlier, Gov. Roel Degamo and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan had passed a resolution to request President Duterte to declare October 21 as a special non-working holiday in the province. The proclamation of special non-working holiday allows the people of Negros Oriental to celebrate and participate in the Buglasan Festival. The provincial government has allotted a
total of P6 million for several events and subsidy for each local government unit participating in the Freedom Fair Booth and festival competitions. Degamo has announced recently that there are at least eight competing festivals from different LGUs on October 21. The participating festivals are from Bais City, Hudyaka sa Bais; Dumaguete City’s Sandurot; Mabinay, Langub festival; Anihan festival, Manjuyod; Pakol Festival of Sta. Catalina; Inagta festival, Siaton; Yagyag festival, Sibulan; Bodbod festival of Tanjay City; Guinhulugan festival of Guihulngan City; and Hambabalud of
Jimalalud. Some 18 municipalities and cities have participated in the Freedom Fair Booth which will be launched on October 13 at 5:30 p.m. at the Capitol Forefront and at 8:00 p.m. the presentation of Miss Negros Oriental Tourism after which a grand fireworks display will follow. To decongest the huge crowd turnout expected during the festival, the Buglasan main events will be spread out in the following venues: Freedom Park, Sidlakang Negros Village, Rizal Boulevard, and Robinson's Place. (rmn/jct/ PIA7-Negros Oriental)
DOLE's ENDO info drive yields positive results By Juju M. Empuerto CEBU CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA) --- Following the information drive on ending contractualization, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-7) received reports on voluntary compliance of establishments on regularization of workers.
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OLE-7 Regional Director Exequiel Sarcauga said four establishments reported voluntary compliance, while 48 of the 79 directly-hired workers whose employment status were rectified are now regular employees. DOLE-7 recently went full blast in its orientation and conduct of massive information drive on ending ENDO and other forms of illegitimate employment arrangements. “We noted a 60.76% accomplishment rate from these establishments, who turned in their voluntary compliance reports. Said establishments are DES Strong Motors Incorporated, Royal Krua Thai Incorporated, Badian Island Wellness Resort & Sarrosa International Suites and Residences,” Sarcauga said. DOLE-7 has received voluntary compliance reports from seven principals engaged with eight service providers. The department tallied 1,143 contractual workers from said establishments of which around 469 had been regularized with 41.03% accomplishment rate, said DOLE-7 Labor Communication Officer Luchelle Taniza. The seven principals are Teradyne Philippines, Ltd., Yasaka Philippines International Corporation, Quest Dental, Sawo Incorporated,
Automated Incorporated, Yamashin Cebu Filter Manufacturing Corporation and Makoto Metal Tech Incorporated, added Taniza. Taniza said the eight service providers are Cebu General Services Incorporated, International Manpower Essentials Incorporated, Esynergy Skill Resources Incorporated, Otagai Tetsudai Manpower Services Incorporated, Sugureta Corporation, Top Jobs Manpower Services, XYMS Manpower Agency and RKMS Manpower Agency. “The legal basis of legitimate or job contracting and the illegitimate or labor only-contracting (LOC) arrangements is found in Articles 106 to 109 of the Labor Code. We commend these establishments for their positive response to our campaign on putting a stop to ENDO and other illegitimate forms of employment arrangements. We likewise encourage other companies in various industries to comply voluntarily otherwise, we will subject them to inspection and compliance visit,” said Sarcauga. He added that DOLE-7 is exerting its best efforts in responding to the marching orders of the President through Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre Bello III, which is the regularization of
contractual workers by 50 percent in the Region before 31 December 2016 and 100 percent regularization of contractual workers before 31 December 2017. “Submission of the list of regularized workers is not enough. That is why; I have directed the LLCOs and the DOLE-Technical Services and Support Division-Labor Relations and Standards to get documentary proofs from establishments, which tendered their voluntary compliance report to us,” he said. According to Sarcauga, in order to validate if said establishments are compliant, they need to give the DOLE copy of the following, namely: (1) appointment of regularized workers; (2)enrollment of the workers in the payroll; and (3) proof of remittance for SSS, PhilHealth, and PAG-IBIG. Sarcauga explained that with the DOLE’s ENDO assessments, the Labor Laws Compliance Officers (LLCOs) will look into the soundness and legitimacy of the bilateral employment arrangements where workers are directly hired. “We check the employment status of the workers, whether they are regular or non-regular in the direct hiring provision stipulated in Article 280 of the Labor Code of the Philippines," he said. (rmn/jsme/PIA7-Cebu with DOLE-7 report)
LMP-Bohol prexy mulls drug testing of all mayors Elvira C. Bongosia TAGBILARAN CITY, Sept. 30 (PIA) -- The president of the League of Municipalities (LMP) in Bohol is planning to have all mayors in the province to undergo drug testing.
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MP-Bohol President Clarin Mayor Allen Piezas during a radio interview here yesterday said he will still consult other members of the organization during their next meeting on October regarding this plan. According to Piezas, this initiative is also a way for local chief executives in the province to show support for the Duterte administration’s war against illegal drugs.
On July 27, 2016, after presiding over his first National Security Council meeting, President Rodrigo Duterte called on local government officials to support his war against illegal drugs, warning that unless the scourge is eliminated, it will haunt the three succeeding administrations. Since the national government launched its intensified drive against illegal drugs, mayors in Balilihan, Dauis and Panglao towns have
voluntarily undergone drug testing and were found negative of any drug traces. The mayors in the province are the heads of the Municipal Peace and Order Council and Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council in their respective towns who oversee peace and order situation in each town and the municipality’s drive against crime and illegal drug activities. (rmn/ecb/ PIA7-Bohol)
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EASTERN VISAYAS
Sitio electrification benefits 10T homes in So. Leyte Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 29 (PIA) -- The Sitio Electrification Program (SEP) of the National Electrification Administration (NEA) has lighted about 8,000 houses in remote areas all around the province over the past four years of its implementation.
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rom 2012 when the first SEP was carried out by the local power distribution utility, the Southern Leyte Electric Cooperative (SOLECO), until 2015, some 269 far-flung sitios, places located deep inside interior, mountain barangays, have enjoyed the comforts of electric connection, with a total cost of over P 134 Million. This was learned during the recent Information-education and communication
campaign conducted by SOLECO in barangay San Rafael, this city. Alan Ferrer, SOLECO’s SEP coordinator who was the one giving the update, said privileged sitios whose residents desired to avail electric connection have freebies in the form of free house wiring materials worth P 2,500.00. The SEP project, also called Barangay Line Enhancement Program, was an initiative of NEA and was approved by former President
Benigno Aquino in 2011, Ferrer informed, adding that this will continue until the year 2020. For this year, there was no SEP because of the election ban, but for next year, 2017, a total of 109 sitios are up for line extension, covering 2,744 households, at a cost of P 39 Million. Ferrer advised those sitios that were not yet reached out by SEP to pass a barangay resolution so that they will be considered in due time. (mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
SoLeyte stands to get P 406.1 M KALAHI funds Marcelo M. Pedalino PADRE BURGOS, Southern Leyte, Oct. 4 (PIA) -- The community-driven Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan (KALAHI) program shall have poured a total of P 406.1 million in development funds to the province channeled directly through the barangays since its inception in 2014 with implementation starting in 2015 and until the year 2019.
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ean Caspe, Social Marketing Officer of KALAHI-CIDSS (Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services), shared this bit of information in this town Monday last week during the launching of the quarterly Bisaya-based “Magtambayayong” newsletter. The six-page paper contains success stories and other development updates on the three core p r ogr am s of DS WD i n t h e province -- KALAHI, Pantawid Pamilya, and Sustainable Livelihood Program -- as gleaned from its maiden issue. At an impromptu press briefing shortly after the launching ceremony at the town’s gym, which was attended by Mayor Hermenegildo Culpa and Sangguniang Bayan Member Jonathan Lee Maraon, chair of the SB committee on social services, Caspe said they are getting ready for back-to-back implementation of KALAHI
projects. This meant that the budget for the years 2018 and 2019 will be downloaded for 2017, and as such the implementers are expected to fast track preparations on the ground, Caspe disclosed. In a flyer containing data on KALAHI-CIDSS program coverage for Southern Leyte province, it was learned that as of August 31, 2016, the financial accomplishments showed P 218 Million in allocated funds, in which P 195 Million was already disbursed. The figures cited covered 411 projects in all the barangays except those in Malitbog and Maasin City, and of this number 390 projects had been completed, while 21 are still on-going, none in procurement stage. Maasin City was not included as cities are not yet in for the KALAHI program, while
for Malitbog, this is still under a continuing negotiation for inclusion, inasmuch as issues on handling of funds continue to prop up, said Roger Cabilles, Capability Development Officer at the DSWD Region 8 office who gave the message during the program in behalf of Regional Director Restituto Macuto. Asked why the launching of the newsletter, an initiative of the KALAHI provincial office, was held here, Caspe said the town was selected in recognition for its accomplishment in that all projects in its eleven barangays, except a water system, had been completed. Caspe and the rest of the team led the local media on a guided tour to at least three finished projects, such as a rehabilitated artesian well and a concrete footbridge in barangay Buenavista, and a coastal seawall in barangay Cantutang. (mmp/ PIA8-Southern Leyte)
NSamar one of 10 priority provinces under SAAD program Ailene N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar, Oct. 4 (PIA) – Northern Samar being one of the poorest provinces in the country, is one of the first 10 priority provinces placed under the Department of Agriculture Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) program.
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AAD is DA’s strategy that would look at the weaknesses of an area, its potentials in food production and livelihood programs. This is part of President Duterte’s thrust to increase food production and alleviate poverty in this part of the region. The program will have a social preparation component to determine the solutions of identified problems confronting the area by a project management team from the technical staff of the Department of Agriculture and the province. The SAAD will be implemented encompassing the food production and livelihood component to include suggested options as presented, such as: Family-based food production program where 4Ps beneficiaries will be tapped
as participants; Family-based Agro-forestry; Vegetable production; Dairy production; Hogstel program, that is, establishment of common facility where farmers could raise hogs and or poor families will be given piglets to raise in form of loans with technical supervision by veterinarians hired by LGUs; Fisheries and Contract farming, among others. Those are just options though, said Dr. Venus Cardenas, DA Agricultural Program Coordinator during a PIA radio program interview. The SAAD program will provide interventions based on the actual need of the project areas. Dr. Cardenas further informed, that just after the visit of Secretary Emmanuel Piñol to the
province, he instructed a team to test the types of soil Northern Samar have, to determine what kind of crops and plant would a farmer grow for assured production. Further, Dr. Cardenas disclosed that a lot of agricultural programs will be implemented in the province under the PRRDs administration and the leadership of Sec.Piñol, with the purpose and the promise to uplift the lives of the people in Northern Samar, particularly the farmers, thus addressing the poverty problem of the province as a whole. The DA’s first ten priority provinces are: Apayao, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Western Samar, Negros Oriental, Zamboanga del Norte, Sarangani, North Cotabato, Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur. (ADiaz/PIA-Northern Samar)
EASTERN VISAYAS
OXFAM launches Market Fair in Guiuan
7 first
Sanitation
Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Oct. 3 (PIA) --- OXFAM, through its Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in partnership with Bayan Academy launched the first ever Sanitation Market Fair on September 24, 2016 at Guiuan Integrated Transport Terminal, Guiuan, Eastern Samar.
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ccording to Rona Raisa Ramos, OXFAM’s WASH and Market Specialist, there are a number of families in Eastern Samar who do not have toilets particularly those who are living in the coastal areas. Ramos disclosed that inadequate WASH services increase the possibility of people getting exposed to public health risks. Water is always needed for everyday household needs. Ramos further said that waste materials that are indiscriminately disposed can contaminate water resources, thus posing a threat to the environment and public health. “By promoting and pushing for proper waste management in Eastern Samar through this Sanitation Market Fair, we can contribute to efforts in reducing water-related illnesses, pollution, and protecting the environment,” she
said.
Meanwhile, during the said fair, OXFAM launched toilet products “Barato nga Kasilyas” or Cheaper Toilets. “Magpahimo na hin barato nga kasilyas para hin maupay nga kita ngan panlawas” or “Build cheaper toilets for livelihood opportunities and good health” which are showcased in Brgy. Surok, Guiuan, E. Samar. After the showcase, the affair was followed by Sanitation Market Fair in Guiuan Integrated Transport Terminal. There were 15 exhibitors from Eastern Samar who joined the said fair. According to Mr. Roy Solidad, the event aimd to encourage vulnerable families to invest in better sanitation facilitities for a healthy community. The fair also introduced affordable and quality WASH products like toilet bowls, toilets,
and septic tanks. Some of these toilet models are made of indigenous and collapsible materials which can be disassembled for safe-keeping in times of disaster. Solidad disclosed that through this fair, people in Eastern Samar will value the benefits of owning a toilet. “Owning a toilet is safe, healthy and sanitary,” Ramos further said. Safe, sanitary and affordable toilets are now accessible to “Typhoon Yolanda” affected communities in Eastern Samar. This campaign is part of OXFAM’s joint project with Bantayan Academy Foundation, aimed at promoting WASH related enterprises in Yolanda-affected areas, particularly in the municipalities of Guiuan, Salcedo, and Sulat, Eastern Samar. (SDC/P[IA-E. Samar)
PNP-SoLeyte supports ‗One Million Lapis‘ campaign Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Oct. 3 (PIA) -- The Philippine National Police-Southern Leyte Provincial Police Office (PNP-SLPPO) supports the ―One Million Lapis‖ campaign project in celebration of the National Children‘s Month on November, 2016.
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he project aims to collect million pencils to be distributed to underprivileged children-students in elementary schools not only here in the province but throughout the country. It was learned that the “1 million Lapis” campaign was launched by the Council for the Welfare of children (CWC). “Lapis” or pencil is a symbolic representation of the child’s needs to express one’s ideas and feelings.
Such campaign will give opportunities and will open doors for children who want to pursue their studies when necessary materials for writing will be available through donation. The provincial PNP said that the campaign is also envisioned to enter the Guinness World Record this year for the longest line of pencils. PNP-SoLeyte further urge every one for their support. As a manifestation of support
to the project, drop boxes are available at PNP police stations province-wide where the pencils will be dropped, whether old or new one provided that it can still be used by the children-recipients. “If you want to be part of it, please join us in this campaign and make a difference, while promoting the right to education of every child," PNP-SLPPO official said. (rgc/ PIA8-SoLeyte).
NGCP turns-over water system to Maasin City barangay Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Oct. 3 (PIA) -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has turned over a new water system to the barangay folks of Guadalupe, around 12-kilometer ride from Maasin City, poblacion area.
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he water system will cater to about 300 households in the said barangay out of the more than 530 total households, Barangay Chairman Guadalupe Cutamora revealed during her welcome message. The water system carries 40 barrels of water, it was learned. The barangay installed a total of 13 faucets including the 7 installed by the NGCP. “The barangay will observe first the flow of the water and will supply the households on a
scheduled basis,” the lady chairman said. This will include the electricity to be consumed by the water system since it is done through pumping the deep well, she added. Meanwhile, Mayor Nacional Mercado who delivered his message during the cutting of ribbon and turn-over ceremony said that water is very important in everyone’s life since it will promote cleanliness, proper sanitation and health care of every individdual and was grateful that NGCP identified Barangay Guadalupe
as their recipient barangay. “Where there is water, there is life,” as the saying goes, he said. The water system in barangay Guadalupe is the second installed by NGCP, the first one was installed in Barangay Tam-is, the barangay where the NGCP office/facility sits. The turn-over was attended by NGCP personnel including Advocacy Officer Eva Manlilay, Edna Legaspina, Betty Martinez and company; barangay officials and some resident-recipients; the media, among others. (rgc/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
Ms. Alicia E. Nicart Regional Director, PIA8
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