PIA REGIONAL OFFICES
In This Issue...
IN MINDANAO
Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula) P. Urro Street, San Francisco District Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016 Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038 Cellphone no. 0908-8843404 E-mail : r9_pia@yahoo.com mimibern17@yahoo.com Skype : hnb_r9pia
• PCOO, ad group join forces to spread ‘good news’ • Aquino assures Filipinos of his goal in effecting change towards progress and development • Aquino declares September 12, 2011 as special non-working day in Lipa City
Northern Mindanao
Graces’ Building, Antonio Luna Street Cagayan de Oro City 9000 Telefax No. (08822) 72-66-83 Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594 Cellphone no. 0928-5204305 0917-3084969 E-mail : pia10_pd@yahoo.com r10_pia@yahoo.com rutchiecabahug@yahoo.com
Central Mindanao (SOCSKSARGEN)
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region) 2/F Kanto Motors Bldg., Quimpo Blvd., New Matina Davao City 8000 Telephone no. (082) 297-0991 / 301-8580 Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 / 304-2044 Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950 E-mail : efelbanbuena@yahoo.com
• Government auditor in Region 12 is 2011 Dangal ng Bayan finalist • BSP honors stakeholders in Region 12 • Tagalog News: Mga “tuna industry players” hiniling na tumulong sa pag- preserba ng biodiversity • DAF, DepEd-ARMM namahagi ng mga gamit panghardin sa mga paaralan • Tagalog News: Mga “tuna industry players” hiniling na tumulong sa pag- preserba ng biodiversity
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)
Central Mindanao (SOCSKSARGEN) Provincial Capitol Compound Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St. Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506 Telephone no. (083) 520-0249 Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100 Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307 E-mail : r12_pia@yahoo.com pia_xii@yahoo.com
• Nurse from Agusan del Sur to join 38th SSEAYP• Youth r • AFP grateful to civilians’ support in war vs NPAs • Climate Change Commission inks MOA with Surigao Norte LGU for Eco town Project • Two lupons in Caraga chosen as nat’l finalists to the LTIA 2011 • German Parliament visits Esperanza, Agusan del Sur
Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula) • Crime volume in Dipolog dips • DepED holds classes for inmates in Dipolog • NEDA approves P3.9-B education, environment projects for ARMM • Region 9 soon to benefit drought tolerant rice varieties • Chinese investors express interest in putting up business in Zambo
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga) Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg., J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239 Telefax no. (085) 341-2370 Cellphone no. 0917-7188834 Email: piacaraga@gmail.com pia_caraga@yahoo.com,ph
Northern Mindanao
OUR COVER Today’s cover
features the
2
NATIONAL
opening of the 2011 Mindanao Business Conference in Pagadian City today, Sept. 7, 2011
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• • • • •
DILG to hold public fora for ARMM candidates to voice platform DA USEC lauds the success of 2nd Minda wide organic forum Lanao Norte women to get anti-tetanus booster shots Mahinog LGU council approves new raffle ordinance Launching of the 2011 Diyandi Festival in Iligan set
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region) • Peace process deadlock, a problem on labels- Leonen • Davao eyes Business Permits and Licensing System • Students impart awareness on TB in quiz bee and poster making contest • RPOC-XI picks reps from private sector, component cities • Peace process deadlock, a problem on labels- Leonen
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Cover Story:
by Claro A. Lanipa
High-ranking official to grace MINBIZCON
P
AGADIAN CITY, 07 Sept. (PIA) – US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas, Jr., will be the keynote speaker during the 20th Mindanao Business Conference to be conducted at the new City Commercial Center (C3), on September 7 -9, 2011, this city.
Pa g a d i a n -Za m - the business commu- venue for Trade and boanga del Sur Cham- nity and government Exhibits showcasing ber of Commerce and in achieving develop- the product champiIndustry Foundation, ment goals in Mind- ons in the region with Inc., President Mer- anao. the hope of generatc e d e s ing loLourdes cal and Quisumbforeign ing said interthis year’s est in conferMinde n c e anao. bears the t h e m e S h e “ O n e said, G l o b a l t h e Mindanao MinBiMaking z C o n Privateis the P u b l i c official Pagadian City Mayor Samuel S. Co gives his welcome remarks during the P a r t - formal opening ceremonies of the 20th MinBizCon Trade Exhibit held at the a r e a n e r s h i p newly constructed City Commercial Center (C3) on September 7, 2011. busiW o r k ” n e s s gives special empha- Q u i s u m b i n g conference in Mindsis on the partnership said, the conference anao and is now on and synergy between will also provide the its 20th year. It is 4
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
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Cover story: High ranking... from page 3
the largRegion, est annual Visayas gathering and Mindof busianao have ness and become industry significant leaders, e v e n t s governleading to ment polithe Philcy makers ippines and stakeBusiness holders ConferDTI9 Regional Director Nazrullah B. Manzur delivers his message during the in the ence. formal opening ceremonies of the 20th MinBizCon Trade Exhibit. Seated to left r e g i o n . are DTI ZamboSur provincial director Ma. Socorro M. Atay, Mayor Samuel S. E xpectIt is also Co, PCCI Vice President for Mindanao Edwin B. Capili, and Pagadian-Zam- ed to the pre- boSur Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. President Ma. a t t e n d Lourdes Qusiumbing. ferred t h e economic and develplatform 3-day objectives. event to present the Min- opment are repredanao Business Pol- The primary goal of sentatives from the icy Agenda, a docu- these area business local chambers of ment covering policy conferences was to commerce, trade issues on economic provide the proper and industry associdevelopment requir- venue for showcas- ations, national and ing government ac- ing the investment local government tion and private sec- opportunities in the officials and the actor commitments, region and appropri- ademe. Embassies, ate forum to present heads of Mission and Quisumbing added. It can be recalled issues and concerns other trading partthat in 1992, the confronting the busi- ners were also inPhilippine Chamber ness community. vited with the intent Over the years, of sharing best ecoof Commerce and In- dustry began holding the area business nomic development area business confer- conferences in North practices. (JPA/ South Lu- CAL/PIA9/Zambo ences to give more Luzon, focus on regional zon, National Capital Sur)
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Wednesday, September 7, 2011
PCOO, ad group join forces to spread ‘good news’
Presidential Communications and Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. and Outdoor Advertising Association of the Philippines Chairman Jose Vale join forces to spread the government’s good news through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement allowing the government to make use of the ad group’s light emitting diode (LED) advertisement boards located in major thoroughfares within Metro Manila. Looking on are OAAP president Edberto Acosta (left) and Treasurer Delia Magtoto (right).
C
iting the importance of keeping the people informed of the goings-
on in government, the Presidential Communications and Operations Office has joined forces with the Outdoor Advertising Association of the Philippines to spread the good news to the people.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
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PCOO ad group... from page 5 The two agencies, represented by PCOO Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. and OAAP chairman Jose Vale, signed a Memorandum of Agreement in ceremonies held at the Bahay Ugnayan located within the Malacañang Complex on Tuesday. Under the MOA, the OAAP agrees to help the PCOO fulfill its mandated task as the government’s premier communications arm to spread
the good news by using the ad group’s LED (light emitting diode) advertisement boards located along the major thoroughfares in Metro Manila, free of charge. The good news will be broadcast through this type of media, in the form of running texts, photos and videos. Coloma lauded the OAAP saying this partnership would help heighten the people’s
awareness of the various activities, plans and programs of government. “There are so many good things that the Aquino administration has been doing to help uplift the lives of our people and these we have to bring to our people’s awareness so they may be encouraged to extend their all-out support and participation in nation building,” Coloma said. (RCK)
Aquino assures Filipinos of his goal in effecting change towards progress and development
B
AIS CITY, Negros Oriental : President Benigno S. Aquino III assured the government’s uncompromising efforts in pursuing its ideals of effecting change as he vowed to bring the whole nation to the righteous path towards progress and development.
In his speech before a huge crowd of Baisanons at the inauguration ceremonies of the Mercado de Bais, Wednesday morning, here, the President noted the unrelenting hard work of his administration to preserve the interest of the people and mitigate the effects of poverty and corruption among the Filipinos. “Puspusang nagta-trabaho ang inyong gobyerno para sa pagbangon ng ban-
sa mula sa mahaba-habang pagkakasadlak sa kumunoy ng katiwalian at kahirapan… hindi magbabago ang panata natin sa pagtahak sa tuwid na daan: at walang dapat maiwan sa pag-unlad,” President Aquino said. Some of the developmental projects by the government, which will directly benefit the people especially those who are in the farflung areas and in the countryside, include the Pantawid
Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) being initiated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development that aims to invest for the future of the underprivileged people. As of August, this year, at least 2,800 residents of Bais City were already registered for the 4Ps, which has a target of 3,500. The Chief Executive said that the Department of Health Region VII has in7
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Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Aquino assures... from page 6 cluded the Bais City District Hospital in the Health Facilities Enhancement Program for 2012. Apart from these, the President said, that actions are underway to address the graft and corruption in the province’s business interests that include the sugar industry. President Aquino expressed gratitude to the local government of Bais City led by Mayor Karen Villanueva for its unyielding support to the programs of the national government. “Salamat sa lokal na gobyerno ng Bais sa pagiging kabalikat ng ating administrasyon sa pagtataguyod ng mga maka-
buluhang imprastraktura at proyekto na kapakipakinabang sa nakararami,” the President noted as he promised the locals of his support. “Sa mga taga-Bais, sa inyong pagtutulungan, maraming problema ang inyong matutugunan… bukas po ang pinto ng aking tanggapan, sakaling kayo ay mangailangan,” the President said. The newly- inaugurated Mercado de Bais project started on December 16, 2009 and was completed last September 6 with a total funding of P265 million pesos from the local government. The initial funding of P220 million was loaned
from the Land Bank of the Philippines while the additional P45 million came from the Bais City local government. With a floor area of 11,000 square meters, Mercado de Bais is a two-storey market complex with a cold storage facility, ice-maker and its own underground sewerage treatment plant. It also has a function room that can house 200 persons, a dining room for 100 persons, transient room and a child minding area at the second floor. Mayor Villanueva said that the new public market is seen to enhance its services and viability as one of Bais’s major economic enterprises. (JCL)
Aquino declares September 12, 2011 as special non-working day in Lipa City
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III has declared Monday, (September 12), as a special non-working day in the City of Lipa for the holding of the National Pilgrimage for Peace and Prayer for the Sanctification of the Clergy.
Proclamation No. 244 was signed on August 25, 2011 by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on request of the Office of the Mayor in order for the people of the City of Lipa to participate in the event. The President not-
ed that the city of Lipa will host thousands of devotees for the National Pilgrimage, a day of prayer for Peace and the Sanctification of the Clergy on September 12, 2011. The National Day of Prayer for Peace and for the Sanctification of
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Priests is a yearly event that draws Catholic pilgrims all over the country to pray for peace and the clergy. Since 2004, September 12 has become the National Day of Prayer for Peace and for the Sanctification of Priests. (JS)
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Government auditor in Region 12 is 2011 Dangal ng Bayan finalist by Dani Doguiles
KORONADAL CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) – A government auditor in Soccsksargen Region is among this year’s ten finalists of the Civil Service Commission’s Outstanding Public Officials and Employees or Dangal ng Bayan Awardees. CSC 12 Regional Director Grace Saqueton announced on Monday that Helen Cailing, an employee of the Commission on Audit Region 12 (COA 12) was recently named one of the ten finalists of the Dangal ng Bayan Award who will be recognized in a ceremony at Malacañang Palace later this month. “Dangal ng Bayan Award is given to an individual for his or her extraordinary act or public service and constant
demonstration of exemplary ethical behaviour on the basis of observance of the norms of conduct provided under Republic Act 6713,” otherwise known as Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, Saqueton said. Cailing, state auditor IV and audit team leader in General Santos City, was instrumental in filing of 12 cases in the Sandiganbayan and 18 cases at the Regional Trial Court and Office of
the Ombudsman against government officials for alleged misuse of public funds. These cases include alleged illegal disbursement P16.106 million at Sarangani provincial government in 2003 under the administration of then Gov. Miguel Escobar and P2.246 million financial assistance allegedly distributed by to local cooperatives whose members were mostly government officials of Sarangani and 9
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Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Government auditor.... from page 8 their relatives. Saqueton noted that Cailing has rendered an exemplary service as a government auditor despite suffering from chronic angle-closure glaucoma (CACG). CACG refers to an eye condition in which portions of the anterior chamber angle are closed permanently by peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS). “This means that her (Cailing’s) left eye is blind,” Saqueton said. As a Dangal ng Bayan finalist, Cailing
will receive P200,000 cash prize and trophy from President Benigno Aquino. Other finalists in the Dangal ng Bayan Award this year include Jelyn Duting of the Philippine Postal Corporation in Iloilo City; Lucille Abad of DOST in Quezon City; Gov. Edgardo Chatto of Bohol; Joey Fernandez of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan LGU; Dr. Eleanor Javonillo of Antipolo City, Rizal LGU; Edgar Madlaing of DepEd CAR; Elpidio Malinao (Posthumous)
of UPLB; Mayor Ramon Piang Sr. of Upi, Maguindanao; and Lorna Pulalon (Posthumous) ng DepEd Zamboanga. Saqueton said they are waiting for the release final list in the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award where Army Col. Joselito Kakilala, commanding officer of the Joint Task Force Gensan, was named semi-finalist. Police Officer 3 Girlie Gay Saniado of the Gensan City Police was also among the semifinalist in the Pag-asa Award. (PIA 12)
BSP honors stakeholders in Region 12 by Dani Doguiles KORONADAL CITY, Sept 7 (PIA) – Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) honored stakeholders in Soccsksargen Region who have supported their statistical undertakings, information needs and advocacy programs. Monetary Board alla led the awarding preciation lunch for Member Felipe Med- ceremonies and ap- two awardees in the 10
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
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BSP honors.... from page 9
Business Expectations Survey (BES) and one awardee in the Advocacy Support in the Financial Learning Campaign at the Sun City Suites in General Santos City, yesterday morning. RD Tuna Ventures was named Outstanding Respondent among large and medium firms while the Horizon Can Corporation was awarded Outstanding Respondent among small firms. Both are among 48 qualified top corporations in Soccsksargen region that underwent the BES. The region’s Overseas Workers Welfare Office (OWWA-12) was also recognized for its contribution in the Advocacy Support in Financial Learning Campaign. OWWA 12 , being
headed by Regional Director Abdulghani Umag, was cited for its strong partnership with BSP in the campaign to educate overseas Filipino workers and their families, particularly in the aspect of budgeting, saving and investing their earnings as well as in encouraging consciousness in financial planning and goal-setting. “I believe you will agree with me that our partnership has allowed us to endure the challenges and exploit the opportunities stemming from the crises that have gripped the world over the past few years,” Medalla told the awardees during the ceremonies. “Your outstanding information support has enabled the BSP to deliver effective
monetary policy management and keep inflation at relatively low levels.” Respondents in the BES have provided BSP with essential inputs in the formulation of appropriate and timely monetary and external sector policies as well as much needed barometer of business sentiments, he said. He also informed the group that BSP is now focusing on Soccsksargen Region’s economic potentials. “We are seeing that the region’s prospects for economic growth are gaining ground. As you may know, Region 12 contributes 3.5 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” he said. He added, the region is seventh largest 11
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Wednesday, September 7, 2011
BSP honors.... from page 10
contributor in the GDP among the regions. “Economic growth in the region was bolstered by mining and quarrying, and construction sub sectors, which expanded by 33.4 percent and 19.1 percent, respectively 2009. Inflation in the region remains low. Banking indicators likewise point to a sound financial environment,” he said. Region 12 covers the provinces of Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and North Cotabato
and the cities of General Santos City, Koronadal, Tacurong, and Kidapawan, and Cotabato. BSP started recognizing outstanding BES respondents and financial learning campaign partners in National Capitol Region on July 6. Similar regional events have been conducted in La Union, Cebu City, Davao City, Iloilo City, Cabanatuan City and Naga City from July 15 until September 2. To date , 48
awardees have been feted for their outstanding support and participation in the BSP’s surveys and advocacies. This event is expected to further strengthen the partnerships between the BSP and its stakeholders in information gathering and advocacy campaigns that will help carry out its mandate of maintaining price stability and promoting financial stability in the country. (PIA 12/ BSP-General Santos Branch)
Tagalog News: Mga “tuna industry players” hiniling na tumulong sa pag-preserba ng biodiversity KORONADAL CITY, Setyembre 7 (PIA) – Hiniling ng pamahalaan at mga eksperto sa mga stakeholders ng industriya ng tuna na pag-aralan ang mga hakbang tungo sa pag-diversify sa gitna ng mga hamong kinakaharap ng industriyang itinuturing na “dollar-earning.”
Sa isinagawang 13th sa Lungsod ng Heneral mga Resource Speakers
National Tuna Congress Santos, inirekomenda ng ang
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
“diversification”
ONE MINDANAO
at
12
11
Tagalog News: Mga “ tuna.... from page 11 pagrepaso ng mga pa- tion ng biodiversity upang
Ang isa sa mga hak-
mamaraan sa pagharvest maging sustainable ang bang na binigkas ni Alcang tuna upang maiwasan sektor ng pangingisda. ang masamang epekto ng
Ipinanukala
rin
la ay ang pagtatanim ng ni mga mangroves sa mga
“overfishing” at iba pang Alcala na sa pagsasaga- coastal areas, na maaarmga pagbabanta sa in- wa ng mga nabanggit na ing magamit sa produksidustriya at sa marine bio- hakbang, kailangan din yon ng bangus. Ito umamass.
Ayon
umanong pag-aralan ng no ay makapagbigay din kay
Depart- mga tuna industry play- sa mga mangingisda ng
ment of Agriculture (DA) ers ang iba’t-ibang mga option ng alternatibong secretary Proceso Alcala, prospects
na
maaaring mapagkakakitaan at mai-
na isa ring tagapagsalita maisulong sa ilalim ng bsan ang epekto ng bumng forum, kailangan um- high value aquaculture at ababang huli ng isdang anong simulan na ang mariculture bilang alter- tuna sa mga karagatan. (AC AGAD PIA12)
conservation at preserva- natibo sa pangisda.
DAF, DepEd-ARMM namahagi ng mga gamit panghardin sa mga paaralan KORONADAL CITY, Setyembre 7 (PIA) – Namahagi ng mga gamit pang-hardin at iba’t-ibang mga vegetable seeds ang mga tanggapan ng Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) at Department of Education (DepEd) sa Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) sa mga paaralang kinilalang mga pilot areas ng “Programang Agrikulturang PilipinoGulayan sa Paaralan sa ARMM.”
Ang programa, ayon
Bahagi rin ng pondo
din at pang-agrikultura.
kay DAF-ARMM field opera-
ay nakalaan para sa pag-
tions director Salic Panalun-
sasanay ng mahigit 400 na na ibinigay sa mga paar-
song ay mayroong budget mga guro ng mga paaralang
Ang
mga
package
alan ay naglalaman ng mga
na P2.2 milyon para sa nala-
pang-elementarya at pang- gamit
pang-hardin,
veg-
labing anim na buwang pa-
sekondarya sa ARMM, hing-
etable
seeds,
sukan.
gil sa kaalamang pang-har-
pestisidyo, mga babasahin,
organikong 13
12
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Wednesday, September 7, 2011
DAF, DepEd-ARMM.... from page 12 malunggay at lemon grass
“learning areas” para sa mga
kay
seedlings.
mag-aaral.
naglalayong
problema sa malnutrition
Sa ilalim ng proyek-
Tatanggap ng pre-
Panalunsong
ay
tutugon
sa
to, ang mga guro ng be-
myo at parangal mula sa at gutom at makapagbig-
nepisyaryong paaralan ang
DAF, DepEd, pamahalaang
ay din ng dagdag na kita
magsisilbing focal persons lokal at iba pang partner
para sa mga pamilyang
ng mga vegetable gardens agencies ang paaralang magtatanim din ng gulay sa loob ng paaralan na gag-
mayroong model garden.
amiting “show window” at
sa kanilang mga bakuran.
Ang proyekto ayon (AC AGAD PIA12)
Tagalog News: Mga “tuna industry players” hiniling na tumulong sa pag-preserba ng biodiversity Koronadal City, Sept. 7 (PIA) – Hiniling ng pamahalaan at mga eksperto sa mga stakeholders ng industriya ng tuna na pagaralan ang mga hakbang tungo sa pag-diversify sa gitna ng mga hamong kinakaharap ng industriyang itinuturing na “dollar-earning.”
Sa isinagawang 13th
tagapagsalita ng forum, kai-
ang alternatibo sa pangis-
National Tuna Congress sa langan umanong simulan na
da.
Lungsod ng Heneral San-
ang conservation at preser-
Ang isa sa mga hak-
tos, inirekomenda ng mga vation ng biodiversity upang bang na binigkas ni Alcala Resource Speakers ang “di-
maging sustainable ang sek-
ay ang pagtatanim ng mga
versification” at pagrepaso tor ng pangingisda.
mangroves sa mga coastal
ng
areas, na maaaring magamit
mga
pamamaraan
sa
Ipinanukala rin ni Al-
pagharvest ng tuna upang cala na sa pagsasagawa sa produksiyon ng bangus. maiwasan ang masamang ng mga nabanggit na hak-
Ito umano ay makapagbig-
epekto ng “overfishing” at bang, kailangan din um-
ay din sa mga mangingisda
iba pang mga pagbabanta anong pag-aralan ng mga ng option ng alternatibong sa industriya at sa marine tuna industry players ang mapagkakakitaan at maibbiomass.
iba’t-ibang mga prospects san ang epekto ng bumaba-
Ayon kay Department na maaaring maisulong sa bang huli ng isdang tuna sa
of Agriculture (DA) secretary ilalim ng high value aqua-
mga karagatan.(AC AGAD
Proceso Alcala, na isa ring
PIA12)
culture at mariculture bil-
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
ONE MINDANAO
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Nurse from Agusan del Sur to join 38th SSEAYP by Robert E. Roperos
BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) -- A nurse from Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur will join the 28 other Filipino youth leaders in the country to the 38th Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP).
nurse, and Outpatient torian of Patin-ay National Department
(OPD) High School.
nurse of Democrito O.
Plaza Memorial Hospital tions he received were the
LAPAY
in Agusan del Sur. He is PGMA
Ed Anthony P. Lapay
is a registered nurse and the lone representative of Caraga Region who qualified in the rigid screening of applicants throughout the country. He will join other youth leaders from the different regions in the Philippines.
Lapay
is
currently
working as medical-surgical ward nurse, emergency room nurse, pediatric
14
Among the recogniAcademic
Excel-
also a part-time clinical in- lence Award, Community structor of Southway Col- Extension Service Award, lege of Technology (SCT) PGMA Leadership Award, Nursing
Department
in and Gerry Roxas Leader-
San Francisco, Agusan del ship Award, among othSur.
ers. His leadership skill
On top of it, he grad-
was honed starting in his uated Magna Cum Laude basic
education
where at San Pedro College with
he graduated class salu- the degree of Bachelor tatorian in elementary at of Science in Nursing on Philippine Normal Univer- March 2009 sity (PNU)-Agusan del Sur
SSEAYP
is
a
dip-
Campus and class valedic- lomatic and cultural ex-
ONE MINDANAO
15
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Nurse from Agusan.... from page 14 change program among and
between
This year’s SSEAYP this international under-
emerging itinerary
is
exception- taking, PintigPinoy is set to
youth leaders in Asia spon- al since the Philippines undergo a month-long sesored by the Government will be one of the ports ries of seminars, trainings of Japan.
of call and venue of the and preparatory activities
More
young
than
delegates
300 first Country Programme, focusing on diplomatic affrom presenting the Philippine fairs,
youth
leadership,
Japan and the ten ASEAN contingent, “PintigPinoy,” personal development and member states are ex- with the unique opportu- social
decorum,
culture
pected to participate in nity of exemplifying the and the arts. this program to promote best of our Filipino values and
strengthen
friend- and showcasing our rich also
PintigPinoy prepare
will country
ship and cultural under- culture and heritage as papers to feature the standing.
well as by showing to the best local practices in
For 52 days, the del- world especially our ASE- education, youth devel-
egates will be on board AN neighbors the various opment and traditional the cruise liner MS Fuji Filipino individuals as well culture,
among
other
Maru from October 26 to as corporations and insti- activities. December 16, 2011, vis- tutions that have achieved iting
Japan,
(Manila),
Philippines global success.
Brunei
Darus-
Official delegates of
the Philippines, along with
In order to ensure their National Leader, were
salam (Muara), Indonesia that the Filipino partici- selected by the Office of (Jakarta), Malaysia (Port pants are adequately pre- the President, through the Klang) and Vietnam (Ho pared to participate and National Youth CommisChi Minh).
represent the country in sion. (PIA-Caraga)
AFP grateful to civilians’ support in war vs NPAs by Robert E. Roperos
BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) -- The Philippine Army on Monday expressed thanks and gratitude to the civilian community for the unending support to government troops in the war against the New People’s Army (NPA). 16 Wednesday, September 7, 2011
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15
AFP grateful.... from page 15 According to MGen Victor Felix, Commanding General of the 4th Infantry Division, the recent encounters that the troops conducted have been successful because of the information given by the community to the Philippine Army, an indication that the people are tired of insurgencies. Also, in a separate interview with Maj Noli Kanashiro of the 4ID Public Affairs Office, he said the community already knew who are their enemies. He added it’s about time for
the civilians to ask what is due for them – peace and development… “This can only be attained if they will support and cooperate with the thrusts and programs of the national government,” Kanashiro said. Kanashiro further said the success of the security operations conducted by the government troops is also because of the support of the local government units in the area. With these developments, Kanashiro urged the local communities to
continue giving correct information to the AFP so that the government troops could be able to respond immediately, thus attaining peace and security in their areas. It can be recalled that on Friday and Saturday, series of security operations were conducted at Purok Kamalig, Sitio Lusong, Brgy. Putingbato, Cabadbaran City, and a follow-up operation was also conducted in Surigao del Norte, respectively. (PIA-Caraga)
Climate Change Commission inks MOA with Surigao Norte LGU for Ecotown Project
SURIGAO DEL NORTE, Sept. 7 (PIA) -- Climate Change Commission Secretary Mary Ann Lucille L. Sering signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Governor Sol Matugas recently initiating the demonstration of the Ecotown Framework in Siargao Island in the Province of Surigao del Norte. The Commission will assist Local Government Units to roll out the Ecotown framework, which is an ecosystem – based approach where the Mangroves in Siargao will be protected by the communities through payment
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for ecological services. Vulnerability Assessment will also be conducted to incorporate not only disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) but also anticipatory adaptation that is based on climate projec-
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tions. Possible impacts to the communities, their environment and the socioeconomic development of Siargao due to climate change will also be identified. (Climate Change Commission/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Two lupons in Caraga chosen as nat’l finalists to the LTIA 2011 by Ray Gregory F. Jaranilla BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) -- Two Lupong Tagapamayapa in the region were chosen finalists to the Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards (LTIA) National Awards. The Lupong Tagapamayapa of Brgy. Poblacion, Barobo, Surigao del Sur and Brgy. Quezon, Mainit, Surigao del Norte were selected by the LTIA National Awards Committee (NAC) as national finalists for the 1st to 3rd class municipalities category and 4th to 6th class municipalities category, respectively. The national finalists were the top three lupons in their respective categories. “The national finalists will be sure winners of a Presidential and Cash Awards to be awarded in Malacañang come October 2011,” said Justice Abesamis. The Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards
(LTIA) was established since 1997 as a means to institutionalize a system of granting economic benefits and other incentives to the Lupong Tagapamayapa that demonstrates exemplary performance in settling disputes at the grassroots level. The assessment period for this year’s search covered the 3rd and 4th Quarters of CY 2009 and 1st to 4th Quarters of CY 2011. On site validation visits to the said lupons were conducted by members of the LTIA National Board of Judges (NBOJ) and National Secretariat conducted on August 24, 2011 and September 6, 2011. The validating team
that visited the Lupong Tagapamayapa of Brgy. Poblacion, Barobo, Surigao del Sur were composed of Hon. Bernardo P. Abesamis, former Justice of the Court of Appeals and now Chairman of the Board of the Career Service Executive Board (CESB), Asst. Director Mariano A. Gabito and Mr. Celso Batalla, both from DILG-BLGS. While the team that visited the Lupong Tagapamayapa of Brgy. Quezon, Mainit, Surigao del Norte were composed of Fiscal Rosalina P. Aquino of DOJ, Dir. Myrna Medina of NAPOLCOM and Ms. Estelita Brondial of DILG-BLGS.(DILG-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
German Parliament visits Esperanza, Agusan del Sur by David M. Suyao AGUSAN DEL SUR, Sept. 7 (PIA) - Six members of the German Bundestag (Parliament) on economic cooperation and development visited the town of Esperanza here recently to learn on the political, social and economic situation of the area as well as the on-going efforts of the Philippine-German Development Cooperation. 18 Wednesday, September 7, 2011
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German Parliament.... from page 17 Led by Ms. Dagmar Wohrl, Chairwoman of the Committee on Economic Cooperation and Development, the group conducted a dialogue with Agusan del Sur Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza, Esperanza Mayor Nida Manpatilan and the recipients of the projects implemented in Barangay Remedios. During the dialogue, Gov. Plaza laid down the efforts of the provincial government in the process of titling the ancestral domain claims of the indigenous peoples (IPs) in Esperanza and all over Agusan del Sur with the aim to protect the culture, tradition and the rights of the IPs over the areas that they dwell since the time of their ancestors. “In fact, we have conducted several consultations and meetings in order that the process will be fully understood by our IPs brothers and sisters so that the areas will be fairly identified and delineated and the process will be smooth and legal,” Gov. Plaza said.
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Meanwhile, Esperanza Mayor Nida Manpatilan said the Higaonon tribe of Esperanza have been very cooperative in processing the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) knowing that the local government have been doing their part in realizing their dreams. “What our people want is the protection of their rights over the area where they live. As natives of the place, they get their food and other needs in their respective areas, while protecting the environment for the future of their younger generations,” Mayor Manpatilan said. The lady chief executive added the municipal government has been closely working with the provincial government “because we have the same outlook for the plight of our IPs,” Manpatilan said. Moreover, Gov. Plaza took the advantage of presenting the issues and problems confronting the process of the CADT, hoping the German delegation could
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extend any assistance for the speedy issuance of the CADT. Also, Fr. Carlito Clase, founder of Mary Mediatrix of All Grace Foundation presented to the German delegation their partnership with German financing institution called MISERIOR. They provided support for the project dubbed as Poverty Alleviation through Good Governance, livelihood, Agroforestry for the Unity of the Marginalized sector, which also stand for the PAGLAUM project. Fr. Clase, with some tribal leaders, presented their accomplishments on food security, land security, health security, education, natural resources, gender and organizational core values. The German delegation left the town of Esperanza around 8:00 in the evening, leaving the people of Esperanza hopeful for more assistance the German government could extend especially to the IPs. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Crime volume in Dipolog dips by Franklin P. Gumapon
DIPOLOG CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) - For the last eight months the crime volume of this city was observed to have gone down by almost 12 percent compared to the same period last year. Speaking at a news conference this morning, newly installed city police chief PSupt. Kenneth Huelba Mission reported that from January 1 to August 31, 2011, index and nonindex crimes totaled 268 only as compared to 304 for the same period last year. “ N o n - i n d e x crimes, however, have slightly increased dur-
ing the period due to a relentless campaign against drug pushers in the city, as non-index crime went up from 77 to 128,� Mission said. The city police station has also attained a crime solution efficiency of 94.4 percent during the period. The new police chief also pledged to closely work with the city leadership led by
Mayor Evelyn T. Uy to maintain the peace and order condition which is vital to growth and development of the place. While investments in Dipolog are increasing nowadays, the police force is also strengthening its intelligence network to curb lawless elements from sneaking in to wreck havoc in the city. (FPG/ PIA-Zambo. Norte)
DepED holds classes for inmates in Dipolog
by Franklin P. Gumapon
DIPOLOG CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) - Even if they are in jail, their passion for learning has been answered by the Department of Education (DepED). Ninety three in- Correctional and Refor- who failed to finish their mates of the Dipolog City matory Center (DCCRC) elementary and second20
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DepED holds.... from page 19 ary education are now undergoing a 10-month class program provided by DepED’s Alternative Learning System (ALS). ALS division coordinator Catalina Barinaga told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that 20 inmates have
enrolled in an elementary program and 73 in a high school course. “This program aims to provide the inmates with the opportunity to finish their elementary and secondary education so that by the time they
get out of jail, they can pursue their studies in college,” Barinaga explained. The ALS classes at the city jail started last July 2 and will culminate in May next year. (FPG/PIAZambo. Norte)
NEDA approves P3.9-B education, environment projects for ARMM ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Sept. 7 (PIA) – The Department of Education will soon implement the P3.927 billion education and environment projects that would benefit the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The Bureau of Public Information (BPI) of the ARMM announced that recently the Cabinet Committee of the National Economic and Development Authority has approved projects on education and environment that will benefit the region. NEDA approved the Basic Education Assistance for Muslim Mindanao that aims to improve basic education performance in the region by addressing fun-
damental issues, such as low levels of intake, participation, completion rates and learning achievement for both elementary and high school education. The report reveals that the Australian Assistance for International Development (AusAID) will contribute P3.57 billion, while the Philippine government will put up the balance of P357 million. The project will be implemented under the
AusAID’s Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM). The BEAM-ARMM has four components, namely early childhood education; school health and water sanitation and hygiene facilities; technical-vocational training and skills development for out-of-school children and youth; and alternative delivery model for preschool and elementary education in remote areas and indigenous peoples’ settlements. 21
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NEDA approves.... from page 20 Meanwhile, a P7.244 billion Integrated Natural Resources and Environmental Management Project (INREMP) would be implemented to cover one river basin in Lanao del Sur and aims to operationalize an Integrated Environmental Management within the priority watersheds of four river basins, namely the Upper Bukidnon river basin in Lanao del Sur, Chico river basin in the Cordillera Administrative Region, Wahig-
Inabanga river basin in Bohol, and Lake Lanao river basin bounded by Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte. The INREMP covers 83 municipalities and cities in nine provinces. Of the approximately 1.14 million hectares covered, 312,783 hectares would reforested and assisted natural regeneration. Of the total P7.244billion environment project cost, the Asian Development Bank will
provide P4.7 billion, while the International Fund for Agricultural Development will share P940 million. The Climate Change Fund will also contribute a total grant of P66.27 million and the Global Environment Facility, P117.55 million. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources will implement the project from 2012 to 2018. (BPIARMM/RVC-PIA-9 BaSulTa)
Region 9 soon to benefit drought tolerant rice varieties by Jocelyn P. Alvarez ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) - Rice farmers in the region may soon benefit from the result of a study done by the researchers from the Office of the City Agriculturist (OCA) that identified the best rice varieties suitable to be planted in rain fed areas in Region9. Department of Agriculture (DA)OCA will soon make available in Zamboanga City and Region 9 “drought tolerant certified rice varieties,” that has the unique capacity
to submerged and withstand drought. DA in its press statement said “three of the 12 registered drought resistant varieties planted during the trials yielded good grains and were rec-
ommended for field trial managed by the farmers in the different rain field areas in Zamboanga City.” DA statement further said, if theses drought resistant rice verities are proven vi22
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Region 9 soon.... from page 21
able, it will be recommended for adaptation for seed and rice productions fallowing the technology used in the study. DA explained, “The three varieties were thoroughly evaluated by the researchers and were
also chosen on the spot by the farmers present during the field day, from among the fully grown 12 varieties in the rain fed areas planted where the study was conducted.” DA revealed, the 12 registered drought
resistance rice varieties were provided by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Philippine Rice Institute (PhilRice) purposely to look for the best varities suitable for this region. (JPA/ PIA 9-Zambo City)
Chinese investors express interest in putting up business in Zambo by Jocelyn P. Alvarez
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) - An eight-man business delegates headed by He Hongmin of Aimin Real Estate Corporation based in Hebei, China arrived in the city over the weekend to explore the city’s potential for business investment. Mr. Vic Larato of the City Mayor’s Office said the “Chinese bizmen came to Zamboanga to see business potentials even as they had already plans to invest in the local real estate and construction industry.” Larato said the group of Chinese potential investors arrived in the city Sun-
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day. The city gave the delegates a tour to various properties and business sites in the city. They were also briefed about the city’s business and tourism potentials, it’s history and culture. City Mayor Celso Lobregat during the
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business delegates’ courtesy call said “We very much welcome you to Zamboanga as we always invite anybody to come and invest in our city.” Lobregat said Zamboanga City is now fast progressing as can be seen in the booming construction industry. (JPA/PIA 9-Zambo City) Wednesday, September 7, 2011
DILG to hold public fora for ARMM candidates to voice platform by Apipa Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 7 (PIA) – The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is set to hold public fora from Sept. 12 to 15 for candidates in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to present their legislative agenda. DILG Secretary Jesse M. Robredo said the public fora would require the candidates to enunciate their respective plans and programs, as well as, positions on various issues affecting the region. He said the fora will allow people in ARMM to have a glimpse of the character, perspective and priorities of the said nominees, as well, as obtain their commitment for reforms in the region. On Sept. 12, a simultaneous provincial public forum will be conducted in the five
(5) provinces of the region, namely: Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-tawi, and Basilan. The venues for the provincial fora are as follows: Shariff Kabunsuan Complex in Cotabato City for the two (2) districts of Maguindanao, Mindanao State University (MSU) campus in Marawi City for the two (2) districts of Lanao del Sur. Patikul town for the two (2) districts of Sulu, Jaafar Convention Hall inside MSU-Bongao campus in Tawi-tawi province,
and Basilan State College in Isabela City, province of Basilan. Similarly, fora will also be held at Office of the Regional Governor (ORG) Complex in Cotabato City and Ateneo de Zamboanga University on September 13 and 15, respectively. Press conferences are also slated on Sept. 13 and 15 to provide information to the media relative to the ongoing screening of candidates and the result of the provincial fora. The DILG, meanwhile, is inviting members of the media to 24
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DILG to hold.... from page 23
provide coverage to said events as recognition of their important roles in elevating public awareness and gaining public trust in the process of selecting the officers-in-charge (OICs) for the ARMM government. In a related development, the ARMM Screening Committee has called on all nominees who did not submit personal application to submit a written confirmation accepting
their nomination and indicating their willingness to be appointed should they be included in the shortlist to be submitted to President Benigno S. Aquino III. As of press time, there are now 26 applicants and 48 nominees for the post of ARMM Governor, nine (9) applicants and 28 nominees for Vice-Governor and 115 applicants and 249 nominees for the members of the Regional Legislative As-
sembly (RLA). The President will be appointing OICs for regional governor, regional vice governor, and 24 members of the RLA, with six (6) members, each, for Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur and Sulu, and three (3) members, each, for Basilan and Tawi-tawi. The ARMM final list of applicants and nominees is posted the DILG website: www. dilg.gov.ph. (PIA10)
DA USEC lauds the success of 2nd Minda wide organic forum by Jorie C. Valcorza CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 7 (PIA) – Agriculture Undersecretary Bernadette R. Puyat had praised the success of the recently held 2nd Mindanao-wide vermin forum, side by side with the implementation and roadmap formulation for organic agriculture. The activity was hosted by the Department of Agriculture, region 10 (DA-10), Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council (RAFC) 10, Provincial Agriculture Office of Misamis Oriental, and Xavier University, together
with other national line agencies. Puyat, who is the alternate Chairperson of the National Organic Agriculture Board (NOAB), in her message, delivered by the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Products Standards
(BAFPS) Director Gilberto F. Layese, said the gathering is very timely as the direction is towards transforming the country’s agricultural sector though innovative practices. She said that, since 2003, the country’s or25
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DA USEC lauds... from page 24 ganic industry is growing with an annual rate of 10 to 20 percent. She further said that the signing of Republic Act 10068 into law, known as The Organic Act of 2010, cemented the government’s commitment of promoting and developing organic agriculture in the country. Although Puyat admits that the rise of popularity in organic farming also brings issues on heavy reliance on chemical-based fertilizers to the surface, she found vermiculture to be a good alternative. It is a simple way of composting, using earthworms to speed up the process and utilizing its droppings as endproduct. She said vermi can
work effectively in biodegradable wastes and its products, such as, vermicast and vermicompost, which are also superior soil supplements and proven to significantly augment household and farm income when sold at the market. Layese, on the other hand, extensively discussed the implementing rules and regulation (IRR) of RA 10068, during the forum, giving stakeholders updates on the implementation of formulated guidelines and its salient provisions, after which, participants also worked together and come up with a regional organic roadmap. “The success in organic agriculture lies heavily on the local leaders, that is why there is a need
now to organize the provincial, city, or municipal organic agriculture board to crop policies for their respective areas and ensure allocation of funds to help small farmers aside from the equity fund to be provided by the department of agriculture,” Layese said. Layese, likewise, reminded farmers on the policy of placing “organic” seals to their products that this should be only after securing a certification or permits to do so. “We need to follow the process, anyone violating this can go six (6) months to jail as indicated in the organic law, this is to ensure that all products bearing such seals have really passed the standards,” he added. (PIA 10)
Lanao Norte women to get anti-tetanus booster shots by Vincent N. Labial TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Sept. 7 (PIA) – In a campaign to rid the province of the deadly tetanus infection, the Provincial Health Office is conducting a province-wide supplemental immunization for women aged 15 to 40 years old. 26
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Lanao Norte... from page 25 Dubbed as Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination (MNTE), this health intervention is supported by the Department of Health (DOH), World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). The MNTE aims to reduce the number of maternal and neonatal tetanus cases to such low levels that MNT is no longer a major public health problem. Maternal and neonatal tetanus have been among the most common lethal consequences of unclean deliveries and umbilical cord care practices. When tetanus develops, mortality rates are extremely high, especially when appropriate medical care is not available.
And yet, maternal and neonatal tetanus deaths can be easily prevented by hygienic delivery and cord care practices, and by immunizing mothers with tetanus vaccine. Throughout the country, only 10 local government units (LGU’s) have been granted the free immunization program and in region 10 only Lanao del Norte was approved. “We are going to vaccinate every woman in our province. We shall be conducting the tetanus toxoid immunization by municipality and if needed go house to house to ensure that every woman is given this important booster shot,” Provincial Health Officer Melania Untao said. The first round of vaccination is scheduled on this month of Sep-
tember. The 2nd round of booster shots will be on October, while the 3rd round will be given six (6) months after or on April 2012. Town mayors have also expressed full support to the program to convince the women sector in their community to avail of the free immunization. “We have also tapped our rural health units, our rural health officers to help identify the women in their communities to ensure a 100% vaccination”, Untao added. In Mindanao, other LGUs approved by WHO for the antitetanus booster shots were Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Basilan, Marawi City and Cotabato City. (PIO/ PIA-10)
Mahinog LGU council approves new raffle ordinance by Homer R. Jajalla MAHINOG, Camiguin, Sept. 7 (PIA) – The Sangguniang Bayan (SB), here, recently approved an ordinance that would regulate the operation of “raffles” in the municipality. 27
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Mahinog LGU... from page 26 Under the ordinance authored by SB Kagawad Rey Lawrence K. Tan, a raffle may be conducted only by a charitable and public welfare organization. Thus, the ordinance would now restrict private individuals from holding a raffle in the municipality. Tan said the ordinance resulted after a bungled raffle in the municipality,which was conducted by a private person, victimized a number of people who purchased raffle tickets, but had no winners.
“A raffle regulation was needed to safeguard the people against the scam,” Tan stressed. Meanwhile, Republic Act 7160 otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991 gives the city and municipal mayors authority to regulate the holding of activities for charitable and welfare purposes within their respective jurisdiction. Such activities may be in the form of benefit shows or dances, bingo socials for charity, raffle draws and similar activities.
The new ordinance makes it unlawful to conduct or operate a raffle in the municipality unless said raffle has been covered by a permit issued by the Municipal Mayor. The ordinance further provides that raffle permits shall be issued only to organizations that operate without profit to their members. The ordinance imposes a fine from a minimum of Php500 to a maximum of Php1,500 or imprisonment of not more than 20 days or both. (MIO/PIA-10)
Launching of the 2011 Diyandi Festival in Iligan set by Melvin T. Anggot/Virgilio C. Garcia
ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, Sept. 7 (PIA) -- The Diyandi Festival or the Tourism Month and Fiesta Celebration in Iligan City has been launched, here, last Sept. 1. Kagawad Marlene Young of the Sangguniang Panglungsod, who is the Over-All Chairperson of the Diyandi Festival – Executive Management Board, said the activities started with a press conference at Celadon Function Hall in Pala-o, this city, where the activities for the celebration were announced. Presentation of the 12 candidates for the Miss Iligan 2011 were also pre-
sented, during the occasion. A motorcade around the city was also participated in by the city officials, members of the fiesta committee, project proponents, event organizers, and Miss Iligan 2011 candidates, among others. The formal launching of the program was done at Rizal Park led by city officials like Representa-
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tive Vicente Belmonte, Jr., Mayor Lawrence Ll. Cruz, Vice Mayor Henry Dy and Kagawad Young. T h e p r o g ra m w a s followed by the presentation night of the finalists of the prestigious singing talent competition called Ilig a n Fe m a l e S t a r Po we r a n d M a l e Po p S t a r which will serve at the 5th season of Iligan S t a r. ( C I O / P I A - 1 0 )
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Peace process deadlock, a problem by Mai Gevera-Macapagat on labels- Leonen
DAVAO CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) -Government peace panel chair Dean Mavic Leonen describes this present deadlock between the Philippine Government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)as a battle between labels, which if only discussed could eventually be settled. Leonen told the Davao media the willingness of the government panel to go back to the negotiating table and ask the MILF what was specifically violated in the previous agreement so both parties
could work on it. “ When we got their draft proposal, we didn’t react to it. A good negotiator will always take it, and find a common ground. The government is very open to talk to them. But the
MILF’s style of negotiating is different.” he said. Miriam Coronel described the proposal submission to the MILF as something abrupt and lacks enough time for both parties to clar29
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Peace process... from page 28 ify the content. “ Nanaig ang disappointment mula sa MILF. Sanay nabigyan kami ng pagkakataon na maipaliwanag sa kanila ang mga core issues na nakasaad sa proposal.” (The MILF’s disappointment ruled at that time. We could have been given the chance to explain to them core issues in that proposal.), said Coronel. The MILF panel was proposing for a substate, which the government panel considers as may be similar to their definition of autonomy. “ A sub state is less than a state that still
recognizes the power of the national government. Autonomy, as what we are pushing for, also shares the same definition. Baka nag-aaway lng tayo sa label?” (maybe we are fighting over labels) Leonen said. He urged the other party to rather focus on the common ground rather than highlight the differences Iqbal said the MILF wrote a letter to the Malaysian facilitator several days ago asking for third party intervention before they meet for another round of negotiations. He asked them not to fail to bring peace to
Mindanao just because of these labels. The MILF panel sought the intervention of Malaysian facilitators before meeting again with the government panel for another negotiation. The government panel, on the other hand, finds no substitute for a face to face meeting to avoid miscommunication. The GPH denies that talks have b e e n s t a l l e d , ra t h e r, the team has become more optimistic that both parties can come up with a common ground the soonest. (PIA-XI)
Davao eyes Business Permits and Licensing System by Mai Gevera-Macapagat DAVAO CITY September 7 (PIA) - The Davao City local government targets to join the roster of LGUs that have completed and are implementing a Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS). In yesterday’s National Competitive Council Roadshow held at Grand Men Seng Hotel, City Planning Officer Roberto P. Alabado III disclosed
that the BPLS which is now a priority program of the present local administration is instrumental in upgrading the services of the LGU.
“ This also gives us a benchmark as to how we are fairing with other cities.”, he said. It is also here in Davao City that new poli30
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Davao eyes... from page 29 cies were created to satisfy the needs of most new SMEs. The city allows for the issuance of a temporary business permit which the business enterprise can use for one month while the permit is being processed. NCC private sector co-chairman Guillermo Luz lauded Davao City for joining the existing 221 LGUs who have been implementing BPLS. There are currently 119 LGUs which are in the process of fixing processes to finally implement a complete BPLS. This program is aimed to streamline business permits and licensing system in the country to the target 480 LGUs by 2014. BPLS follows a standard that limits the processing time of LGUs to issue business permits and licenses to a maxi-
mum of 10 days from the date of submission of the application form. This also required the LGU to have a unified form each for new applications and renewals as well as to have a limited number of steps in processing applications and renewals. Luz bared that Philippines dropped four notches from its previous ranking of 144th in 2010 to 148th this year through the Doing Business Survey conducted by the IFC. Singapore leads the survey since 2009 and tailed by other ASEAN countries like Thailand , Malaysia and Vietnam . The survey shows that Philippines needs to prioritize efforts in starting a business, dealing with construction permits, and closing a business. The NCC called the attention of concerned
government agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry, Bureau of Internal Revenue, local government units, and the Department of Interior and Local Government to work on these priority areas. Aside from BPLS, the NCC also pushes for other priority projects such as the Performance Governance System Balanced Scorecard, the Philippine Business Registry (PBR), the National Single Window (NSW), and the Transparency in Budget Delivery. NCC is mandated to promote and develop competitiveness strategies and push for the implementation of an action agenda for competitiveness and link it to the Philippine Development Plan.(PIA-XI)
Students impart awareness on TB in quiz bee and poster making contest by Carina L. Cayon
DAVAO CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) – Elementary and high school students in the city took part in the celebration of the Lung Month, imparting their awareness on the infectious tuberculosis disease in a quiz bee and poster making contest.
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Students impart... from page 30
With barely weeks to study about the principles of TB and its control and prevention program, Grades 5 and 6 pupils from several public schools displayed their quick comprehension and understanding of the disease during the quiz bee event. Each school’s delegation was composed of three members. All teams underwent three rounds, bearing easy, medium and hard questions taken from the Comprehensive and Unified Policy (CUP) for TB Control in the Philippines. The Vedasto F. Corcuera Elementary School emerged as champion for garnering the highest scores in the quiz bowl. Composing the school’s team were Blessy C. Bongcac, Joana Rei Florentino and Marie Therese Lañohan. The 1st runner-up was the Magallanes Elementary School which was represented by the team of Adrian Caballero, Gieson Balictar and Suzette Cirunay.
The Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Sr. Central Elementary School grabbed the 3rd runnerup place. The members of the team were Dolf Mirelle J. Montecillo, Gift C. Gulayan and Vincent Joshua B. Fernandez. The poster-making contest, meanwhile, was joined by high school students from several public and private institutions in the city. The poster must signify the celebration’s theme dubbed as “On the move against TB: Transforming the Fight Towards elimination.” For producing the best poster that achieved the criteria, the Bustamante National High School was adjudged the champion. Niño H. Acero and Justine B. Capiñanes represented the school. The Talandang High School got the second place for the work of its students Jerry V. Evangelisan Jr. and Jiory D. Elarco. Charmene Mayol
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and Jimilili Marie Chavez gave its school Sta. Ana National High School the 3rd place honor for the poster making contest. The winners were awarded with cash prizes and trophies right after competition spearheaded by the Department of Health-Center for Health Development. The month-long celebration of the Lung Month in August was in cooperation with the TB Regional and City Coordinating Committees composed of various government and private agencies. Aside from the quiz bee and poster making contests, the culmination program on September 1 held at the entertainment center in SM City Davao also covered the distribution of awards to several health. providers and institutions from the government and private sector for their outstanding contributions to the control and prevention programs on TB. (PIA-XI)
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RPOC-XI picks reps from private sector, component cities by Jeanevive D. Abangan DAVAO DEL NORTE, Sept. 7 (PIA) - The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) XI is bringing in additional members from the private sector and from the component cities. Mati City Mayor Michelle Rabat got the unanimous vote to represent the components cities in the Davao Region. She was nominated by Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy and such nomination was seconded by Island Garden City of Samal Mayor Aniano Antalan. RPOC -XI also picked without their presence in yesterday’s (Sept. 7) meeting three private sector representatives from the business, the indigenous people and the media sectors. Nominated and voted in absentia to bring the voice of the business sector to RPOC-XI was Norma Pereyras who was once chosen as a national volunteer, past president and assistant governor of the Rotary Club. Pereyras is one of the prominent leaders in the women sector of Davao del Norte and also cooperative leader. Ruben Labawan emerged as the chosen IP representative to RPOC -XI while Antonio M. Ajero, editor of Edge Davao, was
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chosen to represent the media sector. Ajero is the convenor/ host of Kapehan sa Davao and Marco Polo’s Club 888 Business and Tourism media forum. He is also the current Davao Chapter president of Ambassador Club International and immediate past president and chair of Council of Presidents of the Rotary Clubs in Davao City. Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Assistant Regional Director Danilo B. Lumapas explained the relevance of their membership to RPOC based on Executive Order No. 773, Section 1 (b). Such provision of E.O. 773 mandates the representation of mayors of component cities to the RPOC. The same provision also states that the RPOC chair shall appoint the three representatives from the private sector, upon consultation with the members of the Council. On the other hand, DILG this morning awarded Davao del Norte towns of Braulio E. Dujali and
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San Isidro, the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) with corresponding P1 million cheque each as Performance Challenge Fund (PCF). The Island Garden City of Samal also got the same recognition and received P3 million PCF while Sarangani Municipality was the lone town of Davao del Sur which got the SGH and received P1 million PCF. The Seal of Good Housekeeping recognizes awarded local government units for showing exemplary accountability and transparency performance. The PCF cheque and the plaque of SGH signed by DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo were handed over by Commissioner Eduardo Escueta, vice chair of the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), assisted by RPOC XI chair Gov. Rodolfo P. Del Rosario. Escueta represented Secretary Robredo the RPOC meeting held at the Bulwagan ng Lalawigan at the Provincial Government Center of Davao del Norte. (PIA-XI)
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Peace process deadlock, a problem on labels- Leonen by Jeanevive D. Abangan DAVAO CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) - Government peace panel chair Dean Mavic Leonen describes this present deadlock between the Philippine Government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)as a battle between labels, which if only discussed could eventually be settled. Leonen told the Davao media the willingness of the government panel to go back to the negotiating table and ask the MILF what was specifically violated in the previous agreement so both parties could work on it. “ When we got their draft proposal, we didn’t react to it. A good negotiator will always take it, and find a common ground. The government is very open to talk to them. But the MILF’s style of negotiating is different.” he said. Miriam Coronel described the proposal submission to the MILF as something abrupt and lacks enough time for both parties to clarify the content. “ Nanaig ang disappointment mula sa MILF. Sanay nabigyan kami ng pagkakataon na maipaliwanag sa kanila ang mga core issues na nakasaad sa proposal.” (The MILF’s disappointment ruled at
that time. We could have been given the chance to explain to them core issues in that proposal.), said Coronel. The MILF panel was proposing for a substate, which the government panel considers as may be similar to their definition of autonomy. “ A sub state is less than a state that still recognizes the power of the national government. Autonomy, as what we are pushing for, also shares the same definition. Baka nag-aaway lng tayo sa label?” (maybe we are fighting over labels) Leonen said. He urged the other party to rather focus on the common ground rather than highlight the differences Iqbal said the MILF wrote a letter to the Malaysian facilitator several days ago asking for third party intervention before they meet for another round of negotiations.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
“Instead nag meeting immediately on September and 13 as proposed by the other side, we instead proposed for the facilitator to come and try to narrow the gap between the two parties’ positions,” Iqbal said, explaining the contents of their letter to the Malaysian facilitators. He asked them not to fail to bring peace to Mindanao just because of these labels. The MILF panel sought the intervention of Malaysian facilitators before meeting again with the government panel for another negotiation. The government panel, on the other hand, finds no substitute for a face to face meeting to avoid miscommunication. The GPH denies that talks have been stalled, rather, the team has become more optimistic that both parties can come up with a common ground the soonest. (PIA-XI)
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