Vol 6
In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS
Sr. Lilia Tolentino, SPC, (3rd from right) Provincial Superiors of the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres, assisted by City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog (2nd from right), leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the St. Paul's Hospital Iloilo (SPHI) Cancer Center (inset) held October 19. Also in photo are (from left) Dr. Dennis Doromal, SPHI Radio Oncology Specialist, Dr. KC Seah, Executive Director of Transmedic Philippines Incorporated, and Dr. Michael Malabanan, Head of the Radio Oncology Department. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)
More on Region 6, pages 2-3. Also CLICK Here…
CENTRAL VISAYAS
Cebu tri-media interview Social Welfare Officer IV Artemia Degamo after the Kapihan sa PIA held October 19 at the Plenary Hall of Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI). #PartnerForChange (vvv/PIA Cebu)
More on Region 7, pages 4-5. Also CLICK Here…
EASTERN VISAYAS
Messages from Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla, Leyte Governor Dominic Petilla and LtGen Raul Del Rosario during the commemorative rites on the occasion of the 72nd #LeyteGulfLandings Anniversary held at the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, Palo, Leyte, oct. 20. (rst)
More on Region 8, pages 6-7. Also CLICK Here...
October 17 - 23, 2016
Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8
Issue 42
Location profiles seen as next potential ICT BPM sites Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, Oct. 17 (PIA)--There is a current move by information communication technology (ICT) and business process management (BPM) bigwigs to shake off the list of next wave cities (NWC) in lieu of a more reliable location profile. Philippine Software Industry Association (PSIA) President Jonathan de Lazurriaga bared this at the recent Kapihan sa PIA, a day before Bohol opens its doors again to prospecting investors during the Bohol ICT Summit. ICT and BPM investors especially the big call center companies who are into business process outsourcing have always looked for possible locations of expansion of operations. Lazurriaga explained that the NWC is a distinction given to possible locations all over the country based on four identified factors. He said one factor considered is the availability of local talents like call center workers trained to adopt a global standard for competitiveness. Under this, he explained that a place must have sufficient training institutions that come up to quality and quantity of the graduates to man the possible investments. Investors especially in the BPO would like to settle in an area that would be easy to make business with, and safe where
crime and corruption are non-existent to low. BPM investors want power and water service utilities that are cheap and reliable, the location is safe and costs of living is manageable, social issues like traffic, pollution, food, housing and basic necessities are reasonable as these affect the cost of operations. Finally, investors would be interested if the new location already has or is willing to put up key infrastructure needed for the BPO management operations. However, Lazurriaga said the listing has become less significant with investors now seeing the key factor of a life-work balance in their workers. For now, the move is to do away from the NWC ranking, Lazurriaga said. It can be recalled that Bohol has recently pressed for the placing of Tagbilaran in the NWC in the country. The Bohol ICT Summit has been identified as a step towards the attainment of this goal. But Lazurriaga stressed that getting to the NWC may not be that important anymore. PSIA hopes that when the profiles are out, it would shift the focus of investors in the BPO and ITC, and "this is what Bohol should get," said Lazurriaga. (rmn/rac/ PIA7-Bohol)
AFP CentCom chief: Let’s fight illegal drugs Rodrigo S. Victoria PALO, Leyte, Oct. 20 (PIA) – No less than the commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Central Visayas has called on to fight against what he called “a new war.” “It destroys our youth, the fibers of the Filipino family and the Filipino society as a whole,” said LtGen Raul J. Del Rosario, commander of the AFP Central Command in his commemorative address on the problem of illegal drugs. Del Rosario was the guest speaker of the 72nd Leyte Gulf Landings Anniversary celebration at the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park in Candahug, Palo, Leyte, today, October 20. He acknowledged the magnitude and menace of the illegal drug problem in the country as it was exposed with the assumption of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. “This is the very reason why this fight against illegal drug is now one of national priority on process,” he added.
He also urged the public to heed the call of President Duterte to fight against illegal drug like what the gallant heroes have done 72 years ago. Del Rosario also enjoined the public to be part of the drive of President Duterte to fight against criminality and corruption. He rallied the “new generation” to join hands, pledge and use the same fighting spirit that the gallant men of the Leyte Gulf have shown to win the battles and wars presently faced by the nation. The AFP Central Visayas commander likewise assured the commitment to secure and contribute to the development of the Visayas. “I commit my full support and cooperation to all our partners,” Del Rosario further said particularly in law enforcement agencies, local government unit and non-government organizations in the Visayas region. (ajc/ rvictoria/PIA Biliran)
26,638 WV farmers benefit from PCIC insurance claims By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Oct. 19 (PIA6) --- The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC)-6 said a total of 26,638 farmers in Western Visayas have benefited from the various insurance programs of the agency. In a press conference held October 18, 2016 at the Madison Hotel here, PCIC-6 Regional Manager Charlito Brilleta said that farmers in the region were able to acquire P171,674,343.95 through insurance claims, as of September 2016. “The biggest recipients of these payments were rice farmers, followed by corn farmers,” he said. A total of 24,191 rice farmers in the region received an indemnity of P156,085,490, while 2,183 corn farmers received P13,448,078; 116 farmers obtained P796,472 for livestock insurance coverage; seven farmers of high-value crops (HVC) acquired P51,985; and 141 farmers received P1,292,318.95 from term insurance package (TIP). By province, a total of 13,342 farmers from Iloilo received insurance claims amounting to P92,052,252.30, while 7,458 farmers in Negros Occidental obtained P43,592,930 and a total of 2,382 farmers from Capiz acquired P13,049,595. A total of 1,549 farmers from Guimaras received insurance claims worth P12,981,817; while 1,174 farmers from Antique also received indemnity worth P7,266,615, and farmers from Aklan obtained claims totaling P2,731,134.65. “In the late part of 2015, Region 6 experienced drought
which went further to 2016 and 60 percent of the payments to farmers were due to drought,” Brilleta explained. PCIC is a government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) under the Department of Agriculture (DA). Its principal mandate is to provide insurance protection to the country’s agricultural producers, particularly the subsistence farmers against crop losses arising from natural calamities such as typhoons, floods, drought, earthquakes and volcanic eruption, as well as plant diseases and pest infestation. The agency also covers non-crop agricultural asset losses due to perils for which the asset has been insured against. (JSC/ LTP/PIA6 Iloilo)
Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC)-6 Regional Manager Charlito Brilleta discusses updates on their insurance programs to members of the media here during a press conference held Oct. 18, 2016 at the Madison Hotel here. The press conference is an initiative of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-6 Iloilo Information Center as a platform for government agencies to disseminate updates on their programs and projects. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)
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WESTERN VISAYAS
SPH opens 1st Cancer Center in WVisayas By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Oct. 21 (PIA6) --- Cancer patients need not experience the burden of traveling miles away from home to seek treatment as St. Paul’s Hospital (SPH) Iloilo inaugurated its Cancer Center.
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he SPH Cancer Center is the first facility here that would cater to patients not only in Iloilo but in Western Visayas. During the center’s inauguration held October 19, Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said that the opening of the SPH Cancer Center is the beginning of a new phase in the treatment of cancer. The four-storey cancer center building, located at the Old Mere Monique Home adjacent to St. Paul’s Integrated Center for Expertise (SPICE) building, was planned carefully to facilitate
the smooth flow of operation. The ground floor accommodates all service areas including units such as tomotherapy, chemotherapy, brachytherapy, CT scanning and treatment planning, and consultation rooms. The Cancer Center features the Tomotherapy HD system and brachytherapy which are both state-of-the-art radiation technology in cancer treatment today. The second floor is basically composed of rooms for patients’ conferences and meetings of doctors and staff, and offices for the different
medical departments. The third floor is designed for transient rooms to accommodate patients and their relatives who travel miles from home for their treatment sessions while the fourth floor is reserved for future service units. The Cancer Center is staffed with highly competent radio-oncologists, headed by Dr. Michael Malabanan, along with radiation technologists, nurses, and medical practitioners from different sub-specialties to provide collegial stewardship of service. (JSC/LTP/PIA6 Iloilo)
DTI reiterates consumer vigilance vs. misleading products, services By Vicente W. Villavert SAN JOSE, Antique, Oct. 20 (PIA6) - - As helpful tips to consumers, the Department of Trade and Industry reminded that when they buy a certain product they should inspect carefully the labels and the quality of the product before making a choice or decision.
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We should be very vigilant against the marketing of goods that are dangerous to health, life and property,” Trade and Industry Specialist Glenn Fernando said during PIA Radio program. Fernando said that in line with the observance of Consumer’s Welfare Month, the DTI is focusing its activities on instilling consumer consciousness on government consumer programs, trade laws, basic rights, price acts and other issues and concerns affecting the consumers. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Consumer Protection: Shared Responsibility”. Fernando also discussed the importance of the
establishment of a Customer’s Welfare Desk in every business establishment to attend to and take charge of providing immediate solution to customers’ complaints. “In case you bought a defective product, try going back to the store where you bought the item and look for the Consumer Welfare Desk," Fernando said. For the complaints lodged at the DTI which are not under its jurisdiction, these are endorsed to the rightful agency for appropriate action, the Trade and Industry Specialist said. This year’s observance was highlighted by the destruction of some1,594 boxes of Christmas lights worth P239,100.00 which
confiscated from a major establishment in San Jose last year. The confiscated products were destroyed using a heavy equipment or road roller during the opening program of the Consumer Month at the Evelio B.Javier Freedom Park in San Jose. Other activities highlighting the celebration include hanging of streamers, radio guestings, distribution of information materials, Parent-Student Tandem Quiz Bee, Feature Story Writing Contest, Snap’ Like & Share Photo Contest, Consumer Awareness Seminar for Consumer Organizations, Market Visit and Operation Timbangan, and Diskwento Caravan. (JSC/VWV/PIA6 Antique)
DA bats to include fisherfolks for PCIC coverage By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, Oct. 21 (PIA6) -- One of these days, it will not only be the farmers who would enjoy the benefits of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) but the fisherfolks too.
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his plan of the Department of Agriculture (DA) for fisherfolks was bared recently by Asst. Secretary for the Visayas Hansel Didulo during the recent launching of the Community Fish Landing Center (CFLC) in Mabilo, Kalibo, Aklan. The CFLC for Kalibo fisherfolk is a joint project of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), LGU-Kalibo and the Barangay Council of Mabilo, which is a part of the “Targeted Action to Reduce Poverty and Generate Economic Transformation in the Fishery Sector “ or TARGET, intended to improve livelihood of municipal fisherfolk by providing better post-harvest and processing system and easy access to market. The project also aims to reduce post-harvest losses and increase the value of fishery products.
According to ASEC Didulo, the DA is batting to include fishermen for coverage by the PCIC, as well as to provide retirement fund for farmers and fishermen. Didulo also announced that the DA is set to conduct a Search for the Cleanest Coastal Municipalities in the country with P10 million as first prize, and to provide 50 bancas complete with needed accessories to all coastal municipalities. At the launching, he challenged the fisherfolks of Mabilo and those from adjoining barangays in Kalibo to take care of the project and maximize the use of the structure, which includes a fish-drying area at the rooftop. Along with Didulo, those who came for the launching were Sec. Liza Maza of the National
Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), BFAR Asst. Dir. Drusila Esther E. Bayate and BFAR 6 Regional Director Remia Aparri. Meanwhile, two Kalibonhon fishing families turned lucky during the launching of the CFLC, as they became recipients of a mobile foodcart each complete with equipment, utensils and goods ready for cooking. According to the DA, the mobile foodcart, which is battery-operated, is worth P40,000 each while the goods and utensils which were to be shared by the two beneficiaries – Rolito Braulio of Barangay Nalook, Kalibo, and Grace delos Santos of Mabilo, Kalibo, were worth P30,000. The two beneficiaries said the food carts and goods, given to them for free, will be a big help to their respective families in terms of additional income. (JSC/VGV/PIA6 Aklan)
WESTERN VISAYAS
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Iloilo City showcases anti-smoking drive By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, 20 Oct. (PIA6) — The Iloilo City government shared its anti-smoking efforts before government executives and advocates of smoke-free environment in Thailand.
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he audience in Krabi, Thailand were participants in a workshop on Smoke-Free Cities and Summit of Leaders and Champions in ASEAN Region. Inigo Garingalao, executive director, Iloilo City Anti-Smoking Task Force, said the workshop tackled issues on enforcement, smoke-free places, and advancing smoke-free initiatives, where Iloilo City highlighted its smoke-free events and festivities. Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said he initiated the city’s anti-smoking challenge to actively involve the youth towards a tobacco-free
generation through an intensified information and education campaign. “This also includes banning theselling of cigarettes near schools and internet shops.” Mabilog said. Meanwhile, Garingalao said these are best practices which should be disseminated, citing the strong participation of village chiefs, constant refresher course and training of enforcement personnel, fora in schools and barangays, the involvement of the city health office in business inspections, and the promotion of cigarette cessation clinics.
It was noted that the city’s anti-smoking campaign came into the spotlight in time for the nationwide smoking ban pushed by the Duterte administration. Some 250 leaders and focal persons as well as health ministers of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines, participated in the workshop. The event, primarily organized by the Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance carried the theme “Sustaining the Campaign for Smoke-Free Cities in the Asean”. (JSC/ESS/PIA6 Iloilo)
DOST’s ‘best’ Capiz graduates recognized By Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Oct. 18 (PIA6) – The best graduates from Capiz were recently recognized by the Department of Science and Technology.
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apiz DOST Information Officer Juafe Abareles disclosed that five DOST graduate scholars of said agency were recognized during the In Touch with Excellence Activity during the National Science and Technology Week celebration. She said those recognized during the regional event held in Iloilo City were Angel Lyka Martizano and Jerlyn Joy Villanueva, who both graduated Cum Laude in their Bachelor Secondary Education Major in Physical Science
course. Also given recognition were Wilden Espinolo and Fred Valentino who graduated Magna Cum Laude in their Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Physical Science course. The four DOST scholars graduated from the Capiz State University- Roxas City main campus. On the other hand, Jobee Navia who graduated Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics from CAPSU- Burias, Mambusao
campus was likewise recognized. Department of Science Education Institute Director Dr. Josette Biyo, Capiz DOST Director Gerbe Dellava and CAPSU representative Dr. Lucille Marquez led the recognition rites. The Touch with Excellence is DOST’s activity to honor its scholars who have graduated with flying colors and contributed to the industry or to their field of specialization, Abareles said. (JCM/JBG/PIA6-Capiz)
NIR to host International Bird Festival By Easter Anne Doza NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Oct. 19 (PIA6) - - The International Bird Festival which will be held November 25-26 at the South Capitol Road in Bacolod City is a first hosting for the Negros Island, as a region.
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isa J. Paguntalan, director for Field Operations of the Philippines Biodiversity Conservation Foundation Incorporated said there is a myriad of activities but mostly focused on birds, encouraging the public, raising awareness to keep the birds in the wild and not to be made as pets. Activities include photo exhibits, taking tours in certain areas to see the birds and familiarizing where the birds sites are in the province, this is in line with the 12th Wildlife Month celebration of the Province of Negros Occidental. According to Paguntalan, there are international partners coming over to experience what is bird watching in Negros at the same time to encourage locals to know more about bird watching and getting to know our birds. The international delegation includes bird
enthusiasts, travel tour operators, nature birding tours and tourism ministries from other countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, China, India, Laos and Japan. These delegates are requesting to go to Gawahon Eco-Park in Victorias City, the Mambukal Resort or the Murcia Birding Trail and the San Enqrique-Pontevedra wetlands and Pulupandan, according to Paguntalan. “At this time, we will already have the RAMSAR certification for the Negros Occidental Coastal Wetlands Conservation Area (NOCWCA) wetlands in southern Negros so it can be one of our showcase plus the fact that this will be the height of the migration period for migratory birds in the area,” Paguntalan revealed. They are also interested to go to Danjungan Island to take a glimpse of this one single
bird - the Beach Stone Curlew or formerly called as the Beach Thick Knee that was sighted and recorded and has never left the area since 2015. There are only two islands in the country where you can find the Beach Stone Curlew, one in Sta. Cruz Island in Zamboanga and in Danjugan Island here in Negros. This bird lived in solitary or pair and would require coastal area that is undisturbed and has abundant food. “We take this as an opportunity to discuss serious environmental issues related to bird and since Negros is host to the World’s Most Critically Endangered Bird, the Hornbill and the Tarictic Hornbill, we will have a conservation forum and a talk on the updates on the Philippine Hornbill Conservation status,” Paguntalan added. *(JSC/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)
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CENTRAL VISAYAS
Siquijor guv steers province's growth Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR, Oct. 19 (PIA) -- Governor Zaldy Villa has steered Siquijor province's growth and development with the projects and accomplishments during his first term of service.
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illa said his first term was focused on the construction of infrastructure to boost the province’s income and promote entrepreneurship. One major infrastructure is the rehabilitation of the Cang-alwang airport with ready funding for the runway extension. He said he will secure additional funds for the improvement of the terminal and its facilities. Villa also promised to invite Cebu Pacific to operate and have a regular Cebu-Siquijor trip next year. The governor added that 17 units of commercial stalls around the Larena Tennis Court fronting the Siquijor State College (SSC) are now occupied and rented.
Another on-going pproject is the three-story building near St. Francis of Assissi High school in Siquijor town which will be finished within this month, he said. The building will house business establishments like the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Philhealth, Social Security System (SSS), among others. Its third floor is said to house the biggest convention center in the province. The g overnmen t- own ed Salag do ong Beach Resort is also up for additional five cottages and other improvements with a budget of P50 million. This, he said, will improve income which already went up by P1 million this year from last
year’s P2 million. Likewise, road cementing and concreting are ongoing province wide. Another project is the construction of the new hospital at Caipilan, Siquijor. Bidding for its access road will be done soonest, the governor said. The new hospital has an area of 7,000 square meters compared to the previous with only 2.950 square meters. Department of Health (DOH), he said, has allocated funds for the acquisition of the state of the art medical equipment and hospital facilities like MRI, CT scan, and dialysis. Other projects include electrification and the improvement of the water system for Siquijor. (rmn/rac/PIA7-Siquijor w/ reports from I.AAbatayo)
College prexy lauds PNP support Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR, Oct. 19 (PIA) – Siquijor State College (SSC) President Dr. Ma. Imogen Tan Quilicot recently lauded the local Philippine National Police (PNP) for their support in educating and empowering SSC students.
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n her Keynote Speech at the Siquijor Police Provincial Office’s (SPPO) Awarding and Traditional Monday Flag RaisIng Ceremony, Dr. Quilicot highlighted the SPPO as the school’s steadfast partner particularly in its Criminology program. She said SSC has tapped the expertise of some PNP personnel as instructors and sent interns to the office and other related agencies like the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Bureau of Jail
Management and Penology (BJMP). She added that there is "quite a number" of SSC graduates who are presently with the force. “By making quality education accessible to as many Siquijodnons as possible, we ameliorate the conditions, promote virtues, and advance the happiness of men and women who will compose the future generations of successful people, people who would play an extremely important part in nation-building,”
Quilicot said. She added that the issues that the country is facing today, one of which is the drug menace, cannot be solved by the government and needs the concerted effort of all sectors of the society. “This would be a monumental task for me, for you, and for all of us who have a stake in the well -being of our island and of our country,” she said. (rmn/rac/PIA7-Siquijor)
Hemodialysis Center launched as kidney patients number rise By Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, Oct. 17 (PIA) – The alarming increase of kidney failure or patients with end stage renal disease prompted the Silliman University Medical Center (SUMC) to expand to 24 the hemodialysis machines for patients in Negros Oriental needing dialysis services.
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his was disclosed by both the nephrologist and administrator of SUMC, Dr. Roy Arco and Roberto Montebon, respectively in a recent blessing and dedication of the new Hemodialysis Center, in answer to the growing number of kidney patients which is also the national trend. Montebon explained that the existing six machines acquired in 2012 operating 24 hours and seven days a week could not catch up with the demand of the rising number of patients suffering kidney disease. Dr. Arco said that the leading cause of kidney failure is diabetes, followed by hypertension where the part of the kidney that helps filter waste and fluid in the blood is damaged. Diabetes and hypertension are considered lifestyle illnesses, with the increasing trend of having more patients suffering from these diseases, and they have one and two risk factors for kidney failure, stressed Dr. Arco.
He cited that diet or lifestyle change is the major factor of kidney disease, “because we have a lot of fast food chain with sodium-based food and fat content that create diabetes and hypertension”. In the Philippines, around 12,000 per year new patients diagnose with end stage renal disease and still increasing and this may not include those are not able to get treatment, the doctor said. The medical doctor noted that the growing number of patients needing for treatment per year is also due to government subsidy with PhilHealth to shoulder the cost of P225,000 per year for hemodialysis; and level of awareness that encourage them to undergo chemo. However, Dr. Arco said that most of the patients’ average survival rate would last for two to three years due to its cost with P4,950 per session for new dialysis treatment. "With the high expense, most of them cannot continue or comply with the two to three sessions a week of chemo dialysis procedure much more
cannot take the medications," he said. But SUMC administrator Montebon said the amount per session could more likely go down because of government’s subsidy and discount charge for senior citizen, while for the less privileged they may ask PCSO or DSWD for assistance. It is observed that Dumaguete City is the catch basin for patients coming from neighboring provinces of Siquijor, southern of Cebu, outskirts and boundaries of Negros Occidental, while Dapitan and Dipolog have already full chemo centers. “Hemodialysis is one of the three treatments for patients with ends stage renal disease, supposedly the best treatment is kidney transplant but this is the least common because it’s so expensive and very difficult to look for kidney donor, and the third treatment is peritoneal dialysis, a home-based management which the government is pursuing,” explained Dr. Arco. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)
CENTRAL VISAYAS
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Nominations for 2016-2017 Bayaning Pilipino search on Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, Oct. 19 (PIA) -- The search for the unsung modern Filipino heroes continue this year as the Gawad Geny Lopez Jr., Bayaning Pilipino Awards 2016-2017 open for nominations until November 15, 2016.
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joint effort of the ABS CBN Broadcasting Corporation and the UGAT Foundation, Gawad Bayaning Pilipino is conceptualized to enhance Filipino values system and recognize those who are engaged in grassroots development. Nominations are for three categories, namely for individuals, youth and institutions, said Fr. Nilo Tanalega SJ, Gawad project director. Criteria for nomination of individuals (Bayaning Pilipino), and institutions or groups (Bayaning Samahang Pilipino) include the following: interpersonal relationships, diligence, patience and courage, service to the poor and underprivileged, loyalty and honor and manifests loving fear and hope in God. Under interpersonal relationships, nominees must show respect and camaraderie for others, openness to praise and criticism as well as
others' ideas, can accept criticisms, has kind disposition and promotes equality. For diligence, nominees must have offered self for service for others, shows determination amidst difficulties and shows courage under fire. Nominees must also show responsibility in the community, believes in the common good and is trusted and respected for his contributions to the community while he professes a disposition to continue projects that have been started with consistency. Nominees should also be free from getting involved in scandals and anomalies, performs the duties and responsibilities of a good citizen and promotes self worth. Finally, nominees must be humble, admits shortcomings, has a positive outlook in life and remains hopeful even in distressful times.
For youth (Bayaning Kabataang Pilipino), the criteria is the same and seeks to see respect for co-teens and the aged, shows determination for work, keeps and sturdy vision and strives to attain it, is always ready, keeps a sense of volunteerism, commitment, has a concrete project or activity for youth or community. Nominees should also serve as models or inspirations for the youth and the community and keeps a positive vision of life and has a deep trust in God. Youth nominees must be between 15 to 30 years old, serving the community during nomination period. For more details, check the Gawad Geny Lopez Bayaning Pilipino Awards on Facebook or visit their website at www.bayaningpilipinoawards.com. (rmn/rac/PIA7-Bohol)
DILG awards outstanding barangays, officials Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR, Oct. 19 (PIA) -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has awarded barangays and the outstanding barangay officials of the year (TOBOY) during the Araw ng Siquijor celebration recently.
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wardees were Barangay Cangmangki of Enrique Villanueva as third placer, Solangon of San Juan, second and Poblacion of Siquijor as the first. The first placer was also the winner at the regional level. DILG Provincial Director Kenneth Kilat said that TOBOY is an awards program designed to recognize the barangay officials who have shown exemplary performance in the discharge of their
functions. He said provincial qualified TOBOY nominees have undergone a series of screening, assessment and evaluation conducted by the Selection Committee of the DILG. Common criterion per category is the nominees' leadership qualities. Additional skills required are delivery of basic services, responsiveness to community problems, relationship with other barangay officials, attendance
in meetings and programs/projects implemented, among theres. The search started in 1991 and is jointly undertaken by the Local Administration and Development Program Alumni Association of the Philippines (LADPAAP) Region VII, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Liga ng mga Barangay and the local government units (LGUs). (rmn/rac/PIA7-Siquijor w/ reports from IAAbatayo)
NAST holds lecture series in Cebu Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, Oct. 18 (PIA) – In its aim to increase interest in Science and Technology, the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) conducted a two-day lecture series with national scientists in Cebu.
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n the first day, the lecture series was attended by members of the academe and government agencies. The second day was devoted for the students or the youth sector. Luningning Samarita-Domingo, Director IV of NAST, said there is a need to rekindle the Filipinos' interest in science and technology fields. NAST is like the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts, we take care of the National Scientists, while they have the National Artists,” Domingo said. NAST had recognized 41 National Scientists, 68 Academicians and 11 Corresponding Members. Dr. Romulo Davide, initiator of farmer scientists program and brother of former chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr. and uncle of Governor Hilario Davide III. They brought along with them one National Scientist from Central Visayas, Angel Alcala of
Dumaguete City who was famous for his three significant findings on marine diversity. “NAST is like the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts, we take care of the National Scientists, while they have the National Artists,” Domingo said. NAST had recognized 41 National Scientists, 68 Academicians and 11 Corresponding Members. Dr. Romulo Davide, initiator of farmer scientists program and brother of former chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr. and uncle of Governor Hilario Davide III, is on his way to be recognized as a National Artist. They brought along with them one National Scientist from Central Visayas, Dr. Angel Alcala of Dumaguete City, who was famous for his three significant findings on marine diversity. Alcala gave a talk entitled “Fish be with You: Marine Protected Areas." There were also two Academicians, Agnes Rola who gave a talk on Social Benefits of Organic
Vegetables Production and Jose Maria Balmaceda on “Mathematics: A Language, an Art, a Way of Knowing, a Tool for Understanding Phenomena”. The four Outstanding Scientists who gave their lectures include Dr. Violeta Villegas, “Harnessing Biotechnology to Address Today’s Needs”; Dr. Danilo Largo, Reproductive Biology and Ecology: the Brown Seaweed Sargassum: Dr. Thomas Edison de la Cruz, “The PhilFUB Project: Documenting Philippine Fungi for Drug Discovery and Environmental CleanUp”; Dr. Marcos Valdez Jr., “Animal Genetic Resources Conservation for Climate Change Mitigation." The mandate of NAST includes recognizing the outstanding achievements in Science and Technology as well as providing meaningful incentives to those engaged in Scientific and Technological Researches and to give advice to the President and the Cabinet on matters related to said fields. (rmn/ fcc/PIA7-Cebu)
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EASTERN VISAYAS
Leyte guv rallies people to fight for freedom from poverty, crimes, drugs Rodrigo S. Victoria TELEGRAFO, Tolosa, Leyte, Oct. 18 (PIA) - The top local official this province has thrown a challenge to the crowd witnessing the reenactment of a historic event that took place 72 years ago on present-day social menace.
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he "72nd Signal Day" celebration in Tolosa, Leyte today, was an offshoot activity leading also to the commemoration of the 72nd Leyte Gulf Landings on October 20, 2016. Then, the message sent by Scout Valeriano Abello said “Don’t bomb the beaches. There are civilians. If possible let me direct the shelling.”. He sent this to the US forces thru semaphore flag signalling to save the lives of thousand Leytenos which eventually led to the liberation of the Philippines from the Japanese Imperial forces. “Let us fight to achieve freedom from
poverty, crimes and drugs”, Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico L. Petilla said in his message during the commemorative program of the 72nd Signal Day celebration held at Barangay Telegrafo covered court in Tolosa, Leyte on October 18. The message of Governor Petilla is in a way similar to the relentless drive of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to stop criminality and illegal drugs under his administration. Governor Petilla urged the crowd, composed of government officials, some top veteran officials, family members of the late Scout Valeriano Abello and aides Antero Junia, Sr. and Vicente Tiston, media and residents of
the town, to continue what have fought by the forefathers that fateful day 72 years had passed in the same shoreline against these social ills. The Leyte top provincial executive also reminded to push the frontiers of the fight for adversity beyond its present confines stressing it as more than “a monument in these present times”. “Let us go to the barrios and the settlements in the hinterlands”, he further said to make sure also that advocacies towards peace, progress and development will also be heard. #PartnerForChange (rvictoria/ PIA Biliran)
School banca benefits islanders in Samar Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Oct. 19 (PIA) — While other students are brought to school through school buses, students from Sierra Island are brought to schools in the mainland using motorized fishing boats.
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he Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) in partnership with the local government unit of Catbalogan, distributed the motorized bancas to 30 beneficiaries in Sierra Island, an island off Maqueda Bay. These boats were given with an understanding that they have to bring students to schools.
Sierra island that has eight barangays had difficulty ferrying students from the island to the mainland, so that the same beneficiaries were asked that aside from using the motorboats for fishing, they may also bring students in their barangays to schools. One beneficiary was asked to adopt at least five schoolchildren for this errand. The fisherfolks were just as glad to do so. Parents
too , would shell out some coins to defray the fisherfolks gas budget. Aside from the motorized bancas, they were also given fishing nets by the NGO. PBSP representative Aurelio Salgadas said that this project is also aimed at preventing drop-outs. The project is a joint venture of DepEd Samar, LGU Catbalogan and the NGO-PBSP. (nb/PIA 8-Samar)
PRDP to improve Bantayan-Malobago-Pagsang-an FMT road Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar, Oct. 18 (PIA) – The Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Regional Project Coordination Office 8 will rehabilitate and improve the Bantayan-Malobago,Pagsang-an farm to market road in San Roque, Northern Samar.
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his was learned during the ground breaking ceremony and laying of time capsule at Brgy. Bantayan, San Roque in October 15, 2016. Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Engr. Romeo M. Cardenas said the farm to market road is a 6.88 km long, 0.15 meters thick and meters wide with an estimated project cost of P50,332,424.45 million funded by the World Bank, Government of the Philippine, Provincial Government of Northern Samar and the Local Government Unit of San Roque. He said the project will benefit 5 barangays of San Roque such as Bantayan,
Malobago, Pagsang-an, Lawaan and Genagdanan with population a total of 9,329 and will open up about 114 hectares of potential production areas on agricultural products. Cardenas explained the objectives of the project to at least increase 5% in annual real farm income, and 30% increase of targeted PRDP beneficiaries involved in enterprise development as well as 20% increase in number of farmers and fishers with improved access to DA services. Cardenas further explained that with this rehabilitation and improvement projects, the beneficiary income will increase and would enhance their farm and fishery productivity and
fishers to increase their marketable surpluses and their access to markets. He also encouraged the barangay officials and residents to be part and get involved in the implementation of the project by monitoring and reporting the work improvement if the specifications are being followed based on the work program for the success of the project. PRDP is a six-year program of the national government under the Department of Agriculture designed to establish inclusive, climate-resilient and market oriented agri-fishery sector through strategic, investment in priority commodity value chains, he added. (ajc/tbc-Pia8northernsamar)
EASTERN VISAYAS
Drug rehab for DPWH completed this October
7 employees
Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Oct. 18 (PIA) – The 15 employees of the Department of Public Works and Highways - Southern Leyte District Engineering Office (DPWH-SLDEO) were set to complete their 11-month drug rehabilitation program on October 21 of this year.
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he said employees were found positive of illegal drugs in a surprise drug test conducted last year. Though 23 employees were found positive, ony 15 underwent the rehabilitation process. Of the 15 employees, 6 hold regular position while the remaining employees are Job Order /casual status respectively. District Engineer Ma. Margarita Junia reported that 14 of them were issued a “fit to work” certificate from the Department of Health’s Treatment and Rehabilitation Center.
“I’ve seen how their performace has improved during the rehabilitation process,” the lady engineer bared. After their graduation, Junia said that these employees will be monitored by the DOH-TRC to ensure that they will completely abandon illegal drugs. It was learned that key officials from the DPWH-SLDEO and DOH will witness their graduation rites. It was recalled that the rehabilitation program gave the drug-inflicted employees a chance to change, where the rehab process
was done on a weekly outpatient sessions done by the DOH-TRC. SLDEO provided a space at the Area Equipment Service compound here where the drug rehab session for the drug user -employees were conducted. Junia said that the battle is not yet over, since the six regualr employees are still facing adminbistrative cases at the central office for the use of illegal drugs. DPWH secertary Mark Villar will be the one to decide whether to dismiss or just impose disciplinary actions to the said employees, she added. (rgc/ PIA8-SoLeyte)
Lawmaker urges Calbayog tinapa makers to maintain quality Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Oct. 18 (PIA) — Representative of Samar’s First District Edgar Mary Sarmiento urged Tinapa makers to maintain the quality of Tinapa for added value.
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here is no mistaking that Tinapa has also defined Calbayog City, which is also known for its awesome falls. Recently, Calbayog City ushered in the 4th Tinapa Cookfest in October 10, 2016. This rare event gathered cooking enthusiasts specifically students competing for the best Tinapa based menu. Judges were chefs from all over and the panel was chaired by no less than famed restaurateur of Via Mare and cookbook author Glenda Barreto. The lady who is a native of Calbayog said that the food fare just gets better each
time. But she requested organizers led by Tourism Officer Ronald Ricafort to diversify and include other Calbayog cuisine. Tinapa (smoked fish) is fast becoming Calbayog’s identity as a tourism come-on. On the latest Biyahe ni Drew episode aired at GMA 7, Host celebrity Drew Arellano explored Calbayog’s breathtaking falls and tasted the many dishes where the flavorful Tinapa wowed his gastronomic palate. Local officials would utilize Tinapa as gifts and presents to friends and relatives out of Calbayog. Rep Edgar Mary Sarmiento of
Samar’s First District in his message raved over Tinapa. He said that he will order more than 300 pieces for his yuletide gifts to all his colleagues at the House of Representatives. He urged the contestants in that Tinapa Cookfest to take the matter seriously as Tinapa is a flourishing business in his city. “There is a great demand for Tinapa that we cannot even cope - up with orders,” Sarmiento said. He also urged the Tinapa makers to add the greatest value which is maintaining the quality of the food item. (nbq/PIA 8-Samar)
DRRM training for communicators highlights media ethics Ailene N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar, Oct. 19 (PIA) – Taking into account the vital role communicators play during disasters, the Office of Civil Defense, Region 8, invited media practitioners, from the private, national and local of the province of Northern Samar for a two-day Disaster Risk Reduction Management Training for Communicators on October 10-11, 2016 at Ibabao Hall, New Capitol Building, Catarman, Northern Samar.
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ne of the main topics discussed focused on the media ethics and media role in DRRM which was expounded by PIA8 Regional Director Alice Nicart. Accurate, timely relay of information was technically done through a game which was much appreciated and understood by the participants. Director Nicart shed lights on the ethical problems of the Philippine mass media and its effect to the practice of the media profession. She likewise expressed the importance for
every practitioner to be aware of these problems and further put forward recommendations how these could be resolved. Media during disasters, Dir. Nicart reiterated, should be resourceful, ingenious and practically could use the basic channels and medium when modern technology blocks off, that is, public address, bandillo, pulong-pulong, among others. Some topics discussed during the training were Philippine DRRM system; climate change adaptation; prevention and mitigation;
preparedness; response; rehabilitation and recovery; and disaster humanitarian assistance/ response. OCD Region8 Director Edgar Posadas expressed his gratitude to national agencies, local government units for sending their municipal information officers and government IOs and for the private media practitioners who heed their call and actively participated in the interactive-lecture presented by authorities from different government entities. (ajc/ADiaz/ PIA8-Northern Samar)
One Visayas e-newsletter is published weekly by the Visayas Regional Cluster of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) comprising Region 6, 7 and 8. Its main editorial office is located at PIA Region 6, Iloilo City. One Visayas e-newsletter is part of the online news and information dissemination services of PIA and is powered by www.issuu.com. For inquiries and suggestions, call Tel. Nos. (033) 3378719/3377301 or e-mail piaamo6@yahoo.com.
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