Vol 6
In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-6 Regional Director Fred Sollesta provides the background of the 2015 Census of Population during a data dissemination forum held Oct. 13, 2016 at Westown MO2 Hotel here. The forum is part of the celebration of the National Statistics Month this October.
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October 10 - 16, 2016
Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8
Issue 41
PRRD: Focus on MSMEs Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA6) --- President Rodrigo Duterte has mandated the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to further boost the country‟s economic growth. In the press conference of the kick-off program of the “Negosyo, Konsyumer, at iba pa (NKATBP)” held October 10 at the Iloilo Convention Center here, newly-appointed Assistant Secretary Ameenah Fajardo of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said that the president has instructed the agency to focus on MSMEs. “Ang bilin po sa amin ng Presidente tutukan daw po ang mga MSME dahil dito nakasalalay ang pag-unlad ng ating ekonomiya,” she said. In the Philippines, MSMEs account for 99.6 percent of the 942,925 enterprises in the whole country. Of the 946,000 MSMEs, 89.9 percent are micro enterprises, 9.2 percent are small, while only 0.4 percent are medium. DTI Assistant Secretary Blesila Lantayona said that Western Visayas is among the top five regions with the highest number of MSMEs in the country. “MSME is a very important sector of the Western Visayas economy,” she said. She said that the NKATBP event would help develop confident MSMEs here that have the right mindset
and business know-how to scale up their respective businesses. This initiative aimed at heightening the awareness of the citizenry, particularly the MSMEs, about the services offered by DTI. NKATBP serves as a strategy to drive at “full speed” the development of MSMEs through an integrated delivery of various assistance being extended by the different DTI units. (JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)
DTI Assistant Secretary Blesila Lantayona, in her keynote message during the kick-off program for "Negosyo, Konsyumer at iba pa", shares the good news that Western Visayas is ranked fifth with the most number of MSMEs in the whole country. The program was held October 10, 2016 at the Iloilo Convention Center here. (LTP/ PIA-Iloilo)
CENTRAL VISAYAS
Geothermal could be the best among renewable sources of energy PIA 7
Launching of the country‟s first fluidized bed gasification (FBG) system facility in the sugarcane manufacturing industry recently in Negros Oriental. Ceremonial ribbon cutting with DOST 7 RD Edilberto L. Paradela (center) assisted by RBSMCI President Atty. Alejandro Florian O. Alcantara (extreme right) and Mr. Edward Lee (business associate). Behind Atty. Alcantara is Engr. Apollo Bawagan, Energy Section Head of the ITDI Chemicals and Energy Division.
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DUMAGUETE CITY, Oct. 13 (PIA) -- Geothermal could be the best among the types of renewable sources of energy. According to the Supervisor of Energy Industry Management Division, Department of Energy (DOE) -Visayas Rey Maleza, different sources of renewable energy have different advantages. He said energy from solar power is available only during day time, hence supply is limited while wind is variable because we cannot depend on it 24/7. Maleza explained further that solar is cheaper compared to other sources and affordable now than when it was five years ago. He added DOE is promoting roof mounted solar on commercial and industrial establishments including households during the day on grid and off grid. On the issue of toxins on solar panels, Maleza explained these can only be found on disposed panels and
considering that DOE‟s solar panels will last up to 30 years, they don‟t actually consider it a problem. With the presence of modern and advance technology now, in five years time there will already be a solution to that problem, said Maleza. Though DOE campaigns for the use of solar power they are also open to other energy sources as long as it meets the required standards to provide sufficient supply that will not hamper the country‟s future energy demands. He informed further that DOE is contracting a firm based in the United States to come up with a study in identifying best mixed generation capacity from conventional types of energy that will fit in the required percentage appropriate for the country. The result of the study will be DOE's basis to come up with policies for future contract signing, according to Maleza. (mbcn/lpp/PIA-7/Negros Oriental)
EASTERN VISAYAS
DENR8 relentless in protecting region‘s forest resources Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Oct. 11 (PIA) – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Eastern Visayas is relentless in its effort to NAVAL UPGRADED NEGOSYO CENTER. protect the forest resources of the region. The launching of the upgraded Negosyo This was emphasized by DENR regional director Center in Naval, Biliran, October 14, 2016. Leonardo Sibbaluca following the apprehension of an (rvictoria/PIA Biliran) unfinished boat built with over 5, 000 board feet lumber at Brgy. Anibong, this city. “The full force of the law will be imposed upon violators, and if found guilty, they shall suffer the penalty thereof,” Sibbaluca said. The joint operation was spearheaded by DENR More on Region 8, pages 6-7. personnel in coordination with the Philippine Navy, Also CLICK Here... Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, Philippine
Coastguard, and Philippine National Police. Maita Reina G. Sucgang, chief, DENR regional public affairs office said, the alleged owner of the wooden boat which measures 82 feet long, 7 feet deep and 13 feet wide failed to present the legal documents supporting the use of wooden materials for the construction. Authorities likewise apprehended from the scene twenty two (22) pieces of dipterocarp lumber with a volume of of 1, 178 board feet , 108 yakal lumber, one unit bandsaw and one chainsaw. Due to the incident, persons involved are now facing charges for violations of section 77 of PD 705 or the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines. (PIA-8)
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WESTERN VISAYAS
LGUs urged to invest in water supply system By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Oct. 11 (PIA6) --- Local government units (LGUs) in the country are encouraged to invest in better water supply and sanitation systems.
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his is one recommendation of the Water Security for Resilient Economic Growth and Stability (Be Secure) Project under the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) which has been working with various LGUs and water districts to address water issues. Lisa Kircher Pagkalinawan, Be Secure Project Deputy Chief of Party, said that water supply and sanitation issues have health and economic implications. “These issues have ties with people‟s health. Water-borne diseases are more prevalent when you do not have clean water,” she said.
She said that the Philippines, compared to other countries with similar levels of development, has higher incidence of water-borne diseases mainly because of poor sanitation. She also said that these health concerns brought upon by poor water sanitation are also economic issues. “Every time someone gets sick, there is an economic cost,” she said. She said that better water supply system and sanitation system help contribute to a better economy. She emphasized that information dissemination and elevating people‟s understanding on these concerns are vital.
To help in this goal, USAID Be Secure Project recently partnered with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-6 by sending four student journalists from Iloilo to participate in the WaterLinks International Conference. Pagkalinawan said that the student writers can publish articles on what they have learned from the conference and share these information to fellow students in their respective campus publications. She added that the students were also given the opportunity to interview Dr. Susan K. Brems, USAID Mission Director for the Philippines. (JCM/LTP/ PIA-Iloilo)
NegOcc bags hall of fame award in tourism By Lorenzo Lambatin Jr. NEGROS OCC., Oct. 13 (PIA6) -- The Province of Negros Occidental was given the Hall of Fame Award for winning the Best Tourism-Oriented Local Government Unit (LGU) for the three consecutive years, during the 2016 Association of Tourism Officers of the Phils. (ATOP) Pearl Awards held at Clark, Province of Pampanga, October 6.
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egros Occidental was also given the Hall of Fame Award for bagging the Best Tourism Week Celebration (Province Category) and while Panaad sa Negros Festival was named Grand Winner for the Best Tourism Event (Festival Category), a press release from the Capitol said. The Pearl Awards was held at Royce Hotel and Casino as part of the ATOP 17th National Convention held October 4 7, 2016 with the theme, Tourism for All: Promoting Universal Accessibility; it was attended by tourism officers and guests from all regions of the country. F or m e r P r e s i d e n t an d i n c u mb e n t Representative of the Second District of Pampanga, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, was the guest of honor and speaker during the awards
night. Arroyo welcomed everyone to her hometown province and lauded the tourism officers for selflessly sharing their talent, energy and commitment to their work. She also said that the convention is a good venue for sharing and learning the best practices and new ideas, as well as develop the tourism industry potential in the country. The Negros Occidental delegation was led by Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator, Dr. Ma. Lina Sanogal who represented Gov. Alfredo Maranon, Jr., Provincial Tourism Officer, Cristine Mansinares, Special Programs and Concerns Division Head, Ian de Ramos, and Provincial Tourism Consultant, Nancy Pestano, among others. Sagay City's Adlaw sa Suba and Sipalay Citys Kite Festival won First Runner-Up and
Second Runner-Up, respectively, for the Best Tourism Event - Sports, Adventure, Wellness (City Category) while the Municipality of Pulupandans Dolphin Watching was the Grand Champion in the Municipal Category. Sagay City was named Grand Winner in the Best Tourism Week Celebration (City Category) followed by Sipalay City who won the First Runner-Up; while Silay Citys Heritage Conservation Project won First Runner-Up in the Heritage Convention Category. Also present during the awards night was Gov. Lilia Pineda of the Province of Pampanga, Dept. of Tourism Regional Director of Region 10 and ATOP Founding President, Dir. Catalino Chan, and ATOP Executive Vice President, Dante Navarro, among others. (Capitol News/JCM/ Lljr-PIA6)
DTI steps up campaign against uncertified products By Vicente W. Villavert SAN JOSE, Antique, Oct. 12 (PIA6) - - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Antique Provincial Office stepped up the campaign against uncertified products as demonstrated by the ceremonial destruction of some 1,594 boxes of confiscated Christmas lights held at the Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park, here
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TI Antique Trade and Industry Specialist Glenn Fernando said that the said products worth P239,100.00 were confiscated from a major establishment in San Jose last year because they pose a danger to human lives and properties if left unchecked. The confiscated products were piled at the Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park and destroyed by the heavy equipment roller/ compactor in the presence of Governor
Rhodora Cadiao, DTI officials, national and local government officials, and the media. “These products were found to have failed to meet the quality standards set by the Bureau of Product Standards,” Fernando said. Fernando said that products sold in the market should bear PS or Philippine Standard quality and ICC mark or Import Commodity Clearance mark. PS is for products manufactured in the Philippines while the ICC
is for imported products Products that bear these markings signify that the product went through the quality requirements of the Bureau of Product Standards. “The destruction of the confiscated substandard products, and our regular monitoring activities shows the government‟s determination to protect the rights of the consumers,” Fernando said. (JCM/ VWV/PIA6 Antique)
WESTERN VISAYAS
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DSWD sets its direction for 2017-2022 By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, 12 Oct (PIA6) — It has been 100 days and it seemed more, Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo said as she set the direction of the department after that.
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n a ce re mo ny a t t he c en tra l office, dubbed “Unang 100 Araw ng Pagbabago,” Taguiwalo said she is set to re-launch DSWD‟s three main programs, namely, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, Kalhi-CIDSS, and the Sustainable Livelihood Program, with these merged in a “convergence” scheme. DSWD will also begin a revalidation campaign of the 4Ps by visiting 4Ps households and establishing a new program for families in transition. “This works under the principle of „yung bago ay malawak na kumustahan sa mga 4Ps households at pagbuo ng programa para sa mga pamilyang transitioning gikan sa masa para sa
masa,” a DSWD press release said. “What means and resources the department has will be utilized to benefit the poorest of the poor in Philippine society and to assist all other Filipinos in need of emergency assistance,” Taguiwalo said. “It is not just during calamities that DSWD is active, as it helps Filipinos on a daily basis, by providing emergency assistance, information and social interventions,” she added. Taguiwalo further said that in making the programs become more meaningful and better, information on the mechanics of the Sustainable Livelihood and the Kalahi-CIDSS will be released. As DSWD takes off from the
first 100 days, its officials will be immediately putting together the department‟s strategic plan for 2017-2022 which will essentially mirror the current accomplishments. The plan will also encapsulate the six swift calls, namely swift and compassionate service, service that gives no room for corruption, equal treatment of communities, ethical government service, assistance to those affected by armed conflict and genuine empowerment of communities. “The DSWD seeks to contribute to the national government‟s efforts to improve the economic status of the poor and support the efforts for just and lasting peace,” Taguiwalo said. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)
Soldiers urged to support anti-drug campaign By Alex A. Lumaque ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Oct. 12 (PIA6) – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya said that the military must support the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the all-out war against illegal drugs of the Duterte administration.
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his was stressed by the military official during the “Talk to Troops” that was attended by about 500 soldiers and civilian employees of the 3rd Infantry Division at Camp Gen. Macario C. Peralta, Jr. in Jamindan town last week. “The military can augment gathering information on suspected drug syndicates and they can also provide back-up during arrest,” said Gen. Bisaya as quoted in a 3ID news release. Division commander Maj. Gen. Harold N. Cabreros welcomed Gen. Bisaya, in what seemed to be his exit visit, in a traditional
trooping the line ceremony rendered for high ranking military officials and dignitaries. The call to actively support the government‟s anti-drug campaign went along with the revelation of M/Gen. Cabreros over a local radio interview that 15 enlisted personnel of the Division were discharged from the service after they were found positive on illegal drug use in a series of random drug test. The 3ID commander also assured that efforts and initiatives are being pushed to make the Division illegal drugs – free. The military camp will be among the sites
for the proposed drug rehabilitation centers across the country for drug dependents. Pres. Rodrigo R. Duterte reiterated the plan during his Aug. 5 presidential visit to Camp Peralta. The President said during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) that the government plans to use military camps as drug rehabilitation centers in view of the campaign against illegal drugs. The 3ID camp is the third largest military camp in the country spanning over 33,310 hectares. (JCM/AAL/PIA6 Capiz)
DTI marks Consumer Month with quiz bee By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, 11 Oct. (PIA6) -- Twelve (12) secondary school students from various municipalities in Aklan recently participated in the Consumer Quiz Bee Provincial Level sponsored by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd) held at City Mall Kalibo.
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he quiz bee was part of the DTI‟s activities in celebration of Consumer Welfare Month. The quiz bee was a unique one, being participated by both the constestant-student and his/her parent or guardian. The 12 finalists were earlier threshed out during eliminations held in various districts. Questions, ranging from easy, average and hard mostly centered on consumer welfare and protection to test the students‟ awareness and knowledge on the rights, as well as responsibilities of the consumer. Lyka Dawn B. Macolbacol, who
represented the Regional Science High School (RSHS), emerged the champion in the quiz bee, followed by April Joy Tabiolo, 2nd place winner, of the Dr. Ramon B. Legaspi Sr. National High School (DRBLSNHS); and Demalyn Perucho, 3rd place, of Malay National High School. Macolbacol, as first placer, will represent Aklan in the Regional Quiz Bee. She received P5,000 worth of gift certificates while Tabiolo received P4,000 worth of gift certificates, and Perucho, P3,000 gift checks. The rest of the finalists received P1,000 each worth of gift certificates.
The Provincial Quiz Bee was just one of the activities of the DTI here in celebration of Consumer Welfare Month. On October 3, the DTI conducted a motorcade and had a press conference with the local media with other resource persons coming from various national government agencies with major dealings with consumers in connection with the products and services they are offering like the DENR, the DOH and the DA. “Consumer Protection: A Shared Responsibility” is this year‟s theme of Consumer Welfare Month. (JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)
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CENTRAL VISAYAS
Police war on illegal drugs ups shabu prices By Fayette C. Riñen CEBU, Oct. 13 (PIA) -- Prices of shabu in Central Visayas soared due to its dwindling supply as police continues its war against illegal drugs.
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he deputy chief of the Regional Operations and Plans Division of the Police Regional Office (PRO-7) P/Supt Arnel Banzon reported recently during the forum of the Association of Government Information Officers Philippine Information Agency (AGIO-PIA7) that tackled the topic on the „War Against Illegal Drugs.” Banzon in his presentation of the Project Double Barrel said shabu is now priced at P300/deck or sachet and P16,000 to P18,000 per bulk or about five grams. In Bohol and Siquijor, the prices are even more expensive at P500/deck and P20,000 per bulk, said
Banzon. “The street value is based on the PDEA (Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency) report as of September 26,” bared Banzon. In the latest Tokhang Report of the PRO-7, Banzon said that from July 1 to September 30, there are now 75,454 surrenderees in Central Visayas; 69,816 of which are drug users and 5,368 drug pushers. The continuing police operations against high-value drug targets netted 2,331 people broken down into 1,184 drug users and 1,147 drug pushers.
As of October 11, 116 drug suspects were killed in legitimate police operations while 138 people were killed by unknown assailants, the report stated. Banzon earlier said there are three big drug syndicates operating in the country and these are the Filipino-Chinese, African ring and the Mexican cartel associated with a Chinese group to penetrate the Philippine market. Our mission in PRO-7 is to clear all drug affected barangays in the region and to conduct no let-up operations against drug syndicates and dismantle them, said Banzon. (mbcn/fcr/PIA7)
Smart PLDT wifi now at Tagbilaran airport By Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, Oct. 7 (PIA)— Starting October 10, tourists passing through Tagbilaran City Airport can start accessing free high-speed internet through a wifi system that would open up more free tourism promotions for Bohol courtesy of tourists who had the chance to take memories of Bohol with them.
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he Philippine Long Distance Telephone (PLDT) and Smart Communications, in partnership with San Miguel Corporation‟s Trans Aire Development Holdings for the installation of a carrier-grade Smart Wifi, now allows tourists to post snapshots of the scenic Bohol spots and get connected to homes and offices while in transit. Set for official launching on October 10 at 2:00 PM, the free access comes at a time when Bohol holds its Information Communication Technology Summit. The airport wifi installation boasts of a gigabit per second in line with President Rodrigo Duterte‟s State of the Nation promise of free internet connections for public areas across the country. The installation at the airport also comes not a month after similar free wifi access became available at the Tagbilaran City tourism port and the port of Tubigon, as reported earlier by Port Manager Engr. James Gantalao. Earlier this year, the PLDT Group has announced the first phase of the nationwide rollout of Smart Wifi via an initial investment of close to P1 billion as earmarked for this year, Smart said. As part of the rollout, carrier-grade Smart Wifi
was also deployed in other major transport hubs to include airports, seaports, and mass transport systems MRT and LRT in Metro Manila. The opening of these wifi access areas has also progressively increased the usability of smartphones and similar digital devices including the critical data services in the province, bloggers of the Bohol Bloggers Collective said. Smart Executive Vice President for PLDT/Smart Eric Alberto points out that the three-way partnership with Trans Aire and the government to install Smart Wifi is a great example of how companies and government can work together to benefit the public. “With this latest installation, we are on track with our commitment to government to make available carrier-grade Wifi services in major transport hubs all over the country,” he added. With the service now available, Tagbilaran Airport, joins other high traffic areas like the four terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City; Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City; Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental; Bacolod-Silay International Airport in Silay City; Iloilo International Airport in Iloilo City;
Roxas Airport in Roxas City; Zamboanga Airport in Zamboanga City; Clark International Airport in the Clark Special Economic Zone in Mabalacat, Pampanga; Laoag International Airport; Dumaguete Airport, General Santos Airport, and Kalibo International Airport, as well as the ports of Batangas, and Calapan in Mindoro. Soon, Smart Wifi will also be upgraded in other airports, including that of Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Dipolog, and Cebu, Smart said. Also, in his SONA last July, President Duterte ordered the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to develop a National Broadband Plan "to accelerate deployment of fiber optics." With this, more high traffic areas such as city halls, schools, hospitals, and malls, among others, will be covered by the service over time, Smart added. The deployment is backed by the group‟s robust and resilient wireless and fixed-line network infrastructure. It forms part of Smart‟s three-year massive network modernization program in anticipation of growth in data traffic. (rmn/rac/PIA7-Bohol)
USAID, NOCCI set innovation workshop in Dumaguete City By Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, Oct. 12 (PIA) – The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (NOCCI) will host a regional focused innovation workshop together with United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Science, Technology, Research and Innovation for Development (STRIDE) on October 20 in the city.
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he workshop on „Science and Technology Solutions to Local Problems through Industry-Academe Linkages” aims to clearly define innovative solutions and technical needs that are of interest to industries and local governments in Dumaguete and neighboring towns. The activity will also explore the growing emphasis on the importance of innovation in local communities to solve development challenges. It is envisioned that such technical ideas
and topics can become future collaborative research projects between industry, academe, and local government units that STRIDE or other agencies can support. NOCCI President Edward Du said among the broad industrial topics to be discussed include Renewable Energy and Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Solid Waste Management, Internet Connectivity, among others. “We believe this workshop will be vital in
defining long-term research goals that drive inclusive economic growth for the region, and the participation of stakeholders will be very valuable,” said Du. USAID‟s STRIDE Program is a multi-year initiative established to create inclusive economic growth in the Philippines by advancing science and technology research among local higher education institutions (HEIs), and advocating collaborations with universities and select industry counterparts. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)
CENTRAL VISAYAS
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Negros Oriental population now at 1.3M By Roi Lomotan NEGROS ORIENTAL, Oct. 13 (PIA) -- Negros Oriental population is now at 1.3M as of August 1, 2015 based on the 2015 Census of Population (POPCEN 2015) conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
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SA-Negros Oriental Head Engr. Ariel Fortuito reported this at a provincial forum on the PopCen 2015 results organized by the agency and was held recently at Bethel Guest House, Dumaguete City. Engr. Fortuito disclosed the total population in the province is 1,354, 995 that showed an increase from the 1,286,666 population count in May 2010. The PSA also noted .99 % of population growth rate for the period of 2010 to 2015. This is slightly lower compared to the growth rate recorded from 2000 to 2010 which is pegged at 1.31percent. The province‟s capital Dumaguete City is still the most populous area in Negros Oriental with a population of 131, 377. It also has a registered population growth rate of 1.60 percent. It is followed by Bayawan City with 117, 900; Guihulngan City with 95, 969; Tanjay City with 80,532 and Mabinay with 78, 864. The municipality of San Jose is the least populated area in Negros Oriental with the population count of 20,413. Meanwhile, the population count in other cities and municipalities in the province are 46, 303 for Ayungon, 42, 332 for Manjuyod, 39, 819 for Bindoy, 38, 602 for La Libertad, 38, 259 for Vallhermoso, 37,596 for Pamplona, 36, 527 for Bacong, 35, 470 for
Tayasan, 34, 852 for Valencia, 30, 945 for Jimamalud, 27, 786 for Dauin, 27, 552 for Zambanguita, 26, 566 for Basay and 23, 624 for Amlan. In terms of legislative districts, the 2nd Legislative District of Negros Oriental has the highest population count with 508,152 followed by the 3rd district with 424, 635 and first district 422, 208. The data presented by the PSA official during the forum did not state specific points like the number of men and women and other demographic information but it is expected to be released in another forum. The event was attended by representatives of different local government units, provincial government, Department of Education, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Health and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) – Dumaguete City Branch. Two local chief executives in Negros Oriental also participated in the forum. They are Mayor Felix Sy of Manjuyod and Mayor Valente Yap of Bindoy. BSP-Dumaguete City Branch Senior Research Specialist Gregorio Baccay III was the keynote speaker of the forum. Baccay shared his insights on the importance of PopCen data in the government planning and policy
formulation. “Population statistics is very critical to local, regional and national development both in the private and public sectors. A reliable census as presented earlier, is important for a country to adequately plan growth, deliver services and solve the country‟s problems as its fundamental purpose is to provide facts essential to government,” Baccay said. He added, in Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for instance, most of its monetary policies are anchored on demographic variables resulting from population census. The BSP official cited one complete example is the use of population growth rate which is used as basis in making money. “As we project the amount of currency in circulation that has to be printed and minted, the population growth rate is a requisite to ensure that we have printed banknotes or minted coins enough to balance the economy‟s needs," he said. Baccay explained that printing more will trigger inflationary growth while printing less will also harm the economy. Baccay lauded the PSA for presenting the reliable population statistics in Negros Oriental. (mbcn/ral/PIA7-Negros Oriental)
PCA braces vs ‗cocolisap‘ in NegOr, Siquijor By Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Oct. 12 (PIA) – The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) here has intensified surveillance efforts against insect infestation commonly known as ‗cocolisap‘ in the provinces of Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
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r o vi n ci a l Co co n u t D e ve l o p m e n t Manager Brendan Trasmonte said PCA is undertaking heightened vigilance in coconut farm areas of the two provinces in the wake of alarming reports of coconut scale insect (CSI) or „cocolisap‟ that infested Basilan province. With this, the PCA local office has conducted massive information drive to coconut farmers and stakeholders to enhance public awareness. However, Trasmonte said no incidence of CSI
infestation (rigodus or destructor species) has been observed in the two provinces. PCA has called on the public, particularly the coco farmers, to report any observation or actual incidence of pest infestation or damage to its local office through telefax no. (035)422-1539 or to any Coconut Development Office assigned in respective local government units (LGUs). PCA field personnel are also enjoined to conduct continuing surveillance and information dissemination in all their respective areas of
jurisdiction for early detection and containment, Trasmonte said, PCA reported that Basilan is one of the top coconut producers in the country, with an annual production of 163.2 million metric tons of copra. It is noted that cocolisap may multiply rapidly during the dry season. These pests or coconut scale insects can damage leaves, fruits, stalks and branches cause stunt growth, defoliation and dieback. (rmn/jct/ PIA7-Negros Oriental)
SPUD launches ‗Green Home Program‘ By Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, Oct. 12 (PIA) – The St. Paul University-Dumaguete (SPUD) has launched its ‗Green Home Program‘ recently to foster student‘s respect and care for the environment.
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PUD President Sr. Joseline Lasala, SPC said the event is an extension and observation in the care of the environment at home, in school, and the homes of students and employees. With 2,500 students, SPUD is hoping for them to develop positive attitude and values by engaging in learning experiences that link plants, animals and people by observing the environment around them model sustainable practices. During the event, SPUD community committed to the green home pledge to involve themselves and commit in the environmental stewardship program. Sr. Lasala said the students pledged to do more eco-friendly practices such as segregating waste,
gardening or greening the campus and their respective homes. “The environmental stewardship include planting vegetable patches, but if they don‟t the space, potted or hanging other ornamental or flowering plants, this is a great starting point and opportunities to build sustainable program are endless,” said Sr. Lasala. In its mechanics, committees are formed to locate the houses of students and employees to be grouped into cluster which will be visited for monitoring and evaluation However, the committee also set some criteria for the activity to encourage students to participate
fully by classroom and by areas in school in the implementation of the greening program. In her message, Sr. Lasala also reminded the public: “We have only one planet Mother Earth so individually we are responsible to take care of our natural resources and we have the responsibility to take care of our own resources, conserve electricity, water and also the protection from the pollution.” In the same occasion, a number of students brought their own animal pets for a special blessing in celebration of the Feast Day of St. Francis of Asisi, the patron saint of animals. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)
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EASTERN VISAYAS
Health consortium showcases professional researches in EV Gemma T. Tabao TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Oct. 10 (PIA) - Professional Health Researches of the Eastern Visayas region were formally presented during the recent Health Research Forum conducted by the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC), at Sabin Resort Hotel in Ormoc City.
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nchored on the theme: “Research and Innovation for Health and Environment in Eastern Visayas,” the activity was participated in by representatives of different national agencies, health professionals and academe, aimed at disseminating health-related studies which may have great impact on the populace. The day‟s event was a formal search for the best research among the seven entries submitted by different institutions. Together with the presentations was the exhibit of some posters ready for judging, and likewise focused on health projects submitted by both professionals and students. Among the oral presentations of the health researches, the study on “Assessment of the Sanitary Conditions and Food Handlers‟ Practices of Public and Private High School Canteens in Eastern Visayas, Philippines” was judged as first prize winner with a cash award of ten thousand pesos, while the research on “Incidence of Low Birth Weight Live Full Term Infants Born to Primigravid Adolescent Women: A Three Year Review in a Tertiary Care Government Center” and the study on “Isolation and Characterization of Free-living Amoeboflagellates
in Tacloban City, Philippines Using Brain-bait Enrichment Technique”, were adjudged second and third prize winners with cash awards of P7,000.00 and P5,000.00, respectively. For the poster-making contest of the professional category, the first prize winner went to the poster on “Participatory Hygiene and Sanitation Transformation in a Remote and Isolated Community in Samar Province, Philippines”, winning a cash prize of P5,000.00; while the second prize winner poster was entitled “Factors Associated with Couple‟s Participation to the Newborn Screening Program Implemented in Health Care Facilities in Borongan City, Eastern Samar”, getting P3,500.00. The third winning entry was the poster on “Prevalence of Malnourishment among Pe-schools in Catbalogan City, Philippines” winning P2,500.00 in cash. On the other hand, the winning posters for the student level category were the following: “Mosquito Larval Surveillance in Agricultural, Coastal and Urban Communities in Biliran Province which won the first prize of P5,000.00, followed by the poster entitled ”Disaster Preparedness in Philippine Nurses” with P3,500.00 cash award. Lastly, “Factors Affecting the
Utilization of Maternal Health Services in Barangay Mercedes, Catbalogan Cty” poster was adjudged third placer bringing with it a cash prize of P2,500.00. The panel of judges for the oral research presentations was composed of Dr. Jacinto Mantaring III who is a Professor of Ipidemiology at UP Manila; Dr. Edgardo Tulin, the President of the Visayas State University; Dr. Mae Anne Reyes, Supervising SRS of the Department of Science and Technology, and; Dr Leonido Olobia, the Research Program Coordinator of the Department of Health. Dr. Ofelia Mendoza, a Research Consultant who is connected with the World Health Organization was the Chair of the Panel. On the Poster exhibits, Dr. Catalino Dotollo who is the Region 8 Nutrition Program Coordinator chaired the Board of Judges, with Engr. Ernesto Granada, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations of DOST, and Ms. Anicia Catameo, the Supervoising SRS of DOST-PCHRD, as his members. No less than the City Mayor of Ormoc City, Richard Gomez, graced the occasion, who likewise led the formal opening of the poster exhibits. (gtt/ PIA-8)
Southern Leyte PDRRMO earns Gawad KALASAG award Erna Sy Gorne MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte Oct. 11 (PIA) - The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) earns presidential award for its contribution in making the province in a better position in disaster response preparedness.
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ccording to Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer Danilo Atienza, the PDRRMO gets the KAlamidad at SAkuna LAbanan Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan (KALASAG) award in terms of readiness in its four thematic areas in disaster management, namely the Prevention and Mitigation Preparedness Response, Recovery and Rehabilitation. The evaluation conducted throughout the Eastern Visayas region was led by the Office of Civil
Defense (OCD)-8 in 2015. Atienza disclosed that for winning the Gawad KALASAG presidential award, the PDRRMO will receive P50,000.00 cash award and a vehicle that can be used to respond to people needing assistance. He further said that the aggresive support of the provincial government under the administration of former Governor Roger Mercado particularly in the construction of evacuation centers, river dikes,
seawalls, relentless tree planting to prevent landslide, acquistion of hand held radios, among other equipment, necessary to ably respond in times of emergencies and calamities. Atienza was grateful of the continued support PDRRMO is enjoying with the new provincial administration headed by Governor Damian Mercado, who pledged to complete all the needed equipment in disaster preparedness. (ajc/esg/PIA8 SoLeyte)
Eastern Visayas‘ population reaches 4.4 million in 2015 TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Oct. 13 - The total population of Region 8 (Eastern Visayas) was placed at 4,440,150 as of August 1, 2015 which accounted for about 4.4 percent of the country‘s total population based on last year‘s census of population (PopCen) released last May 2016.
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he 2015 population is higher by 339 thousand compared with the 4.1 million registered in 2010 and more than two times higher than the region‟s population in 1960. The increase in population during the period 2010 to 2015 translates to an average annual population growth rate (PGR) of 1.52 percent which means that, on the average, there were about 15 persons added per year for every 1,000 persons. The province of Leyte (excluding Tacloban
City) was the fastest growing province in the region with an average annual PGR of 1.83 percent followed by Eastern Samar with a PGR of 1.64 percent. Leyte province (excluding Tacloban City) likewise posted the largest population at 1,724,679 which accounted for about 38.8 percent of the total population in the region while Biliran, the smallest province, had the smallest population at 171,612, accounting for only 3.9 percent. Among the cities (excluding Tacloban City) in
the region, the largest in terms of population size, is Ormoc City with 215,031 which was also the fastest growing city in the region (excluding Tacloban City) with a PGR of 2.26 percent. Tacloban City, the lone Highly Urbanized City (HUC) of Region 8, posted a population of 242,089, which translates to a PGR of 1.73 percent. PopCen 2015 is the 14th census of population undertaken in the country since the first census in 1903. (ldl/PSA-8/PIA-8)
EASTERN VISAYAS
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New 8th ID commander brings good tidings of peace Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Oct 10 (PIA) — BGen Raul Farnacio aims to pursue peace talks with insurgents and ensure that army elements under his watch do not get involved in drugs.
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hese were some of the priorities Farnacio willed to do as he assumes the command at the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army on October 6, 2016. Farnacio took over the reign from MGen Jet Velarmino who retired from the service that day.
The new commanding general urged his troops to support Pres Duterte‟s mandate of ensuring peace and supporting the police in its war on drugs. Lt General Eduardo Ano, commanding general of the Philippine Army presided over the turnover ceremony held at the 8th ID grounds attended by Northern Samar Governor Jun
Ong and PNP Regional Director Elmer Beltejar and other local chief executives. Farnacio was promoted to Brigadier General just this January along with other 50 other generals. He served as the chief of the Army Internal Audit unit before this assignment. (nbq/PIA 8 -Samar)
Biliran crime incident drops by 81% Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran, Oct. 11 (PIA) – A significant drop in crime incident in Biliran province was recorded in September this year, the top police official in Biliran province revealed in an interview.
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Crime incident in Biliran recorded only 11 cases in September, 2016 compared to 59 cases in the same period last year,” P/Supt. Carlito De Guzman Gallardo, OIC provincial director of the Biliran Police Provincial Office (BPPO) reported during the Kapihan at Pulong-Pulong ng Bayan hosted by Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Biliran provincial information center live over Radyo Natin-Naval. Gallardo related the significant decrease in crime incident in Biliran province with the relentless anti-illegal drugs campaign of the Duterte
administration implemented all over the country to include Biliran, since President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (PRRD) assumed office in June 30. “Almost all of the crimes committed are drug-related,” the OIC of BPPO said. He added that majority of the reasons nowadays why an individual kills, steals, rapes or commits heinous crimes is being hooked on illegal drugs. He also warned identified drug personalities in Biliran province who voluntary surrendered to police authorities under Operation Tokhang who go back
to illegal drugs trade to stop, to avoid facing dire consequences. “There might be an Operation Tokhang 2 that will be implemented by PNP which is more stringent and might put the identified personalities involved in illegal drug activities in danger,” he emphasized. Gallardo also reported that there were 17 drug pushers and two drug users apprehended in Biliran province from July 1 until end of September th is year . (a fj / FJ /r vi ctor ia /P I A Bi lir an) #PartnerForChange
Bringing potable water to communities Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran, October 7 (PIA) – ―I‘m still nine years old way back in 1959 when I used a whole piece of bamboo called lakob in the Cebuano dialect used in gathering coconut wine where I still have to cross the other side of the river just to fetch drinking water,‖ recalled Mano David Paanod, a resident of Barangay Libtong in Naval, Biliran.
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ano David made his testimonial during the turn-over ceremony of ram pump project in October 4, 2016, to Barangay Libtong, an upland barangay situated almost five kilometers away from Naval town proper. The children now in our barangay will enjoy easy access to potable drinking water right at their doorsteps through the installed water tap stands in the heart of the community, Mano David said in his testimony. Barangay Libtong ram pump project, was started in May 13, 2016 and was finished on August 31, 2016, can provide 24,685 liters or 123 drums per day to serve the water needs of 175 households plus bonus water filter given to each household. “It is part of corporate social responsibility to give back to the communities,” said Monina P. Pacheco, Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines project officer for environment in her message during the turn-over. Pacheco was with some officials and members of the Rotary Club of BiliranIsland led by Atty. Mario Lydinno R. Opena, the NGO partner in the ram pump water project implementation and with some
officers and community development facilitators of Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation Incorporated (AIDFI) led by Jose Moven Ligahon, project coordinator on AGOS Project, the ram pump project implementer. Pacheco emphasized that Coca-Cola Foundation, which poured funding to ram pump projects not only to communities in the Philippines but also in identified communities in other parts of the world where accessibility to potable water supply is a big problem, uses water in the production of its products and is just paying back to communities through ram pump water projects. She also reminded the people of Barangay Libtong led by Barangay Captain Judy Espregante, barangay council members and the officers and members of Libtong Water System Association to take care of the ram pump water project and the environment where the source of water comes from. As of the first week of October, four other ram pump water projects with its production capacities, households served and corresponding water filters, were distributed as follows: October 5, 2016 – Barangay Villacaneja- 30, 240 liters or
151.2 drums per day, 182 households and 182 water filters; October 6, 2016 - Barangay Cabungaan-28,080 liters or 140.4 drums per day, 99 households and 103 water filters; October 7, 2016 – Barangay Caray-Caray- 53,300 liters or 267 drums per day, 274 households and 274 water filters where some are given to Naval School of Fisheries, Caray-Caray Elementary School, Caray-Caray Day Care and health centers; and October 8, 2016 – Barangay Catmon comprising of Sitio Baras - 20, 064 liters or 130 drums per day, Catmon proper-174,629 liters or 873 drums per day, Sitio Puro -18, 245 liters or 91 drums per day and Sitio MocalBocal - 41,702 liters or 208 drums per day serving 334 households with 334 water filters. Coca-Cola Foundation is also contemplating funding other ram pump water projects in other towns in Biliran province with still the Rotary Club of BiliranIsland as partner in the community in the project implementation. Truly, Coca-Cola Foundation stands on its corporate social responsibility in partnership with the Rotary Club of BiliranIsland in bringing potable water to communities. (FJ/rvictoria/PIA Biliran) # PartnerForChange
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. 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, Childrenâ€&#x;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