PIA REGIONAL OFFICES
In This Issue...
IN MINDANAO
NATIONAL
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
• Aquino arrives in Beijing • Aquino to promote Philippines to investors in five-day China trip • Aquino’s visit to China to generate about $2-$7 billion worth of investments • Filipinos in Shanghai eagerly await arrival of President Aquino • Malacañang says repatriation of Filipinos in Libya continues • Palace assures public of close monitoring of bird flu re surgence to prevent entry of virus • Aquino arrives in Beijing • President Aquino joins Muslim community in celebration of Eid ul-Fitr • Palace vows to continue working hard for more economic growth
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
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)
Northern Mindanao
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
• 7 towns in NorMin qualify as “Makamasang Tugon” areas • SPES to reach more than 7,000 beneficiaries in region 10 • Php12.55B proposed budget of SDS agencies/SUC’s for 2012 get RDC-X nod • DTI warns public vs. mislabeled Christmas decors, unsafe products • Lanao Norte to benefit from WFP livelihood project
Central Mindanao (SOCSKSARGEN)
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)
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
• DA promotes non-rice staples • Padaca cites quiet workings of Aquino’s administration • COMVAL to work closely against Trichinosis •ComVal, Regional Winner to TESDA’s various awards • Comval’s family health fair on Sept.2-3, DOH Health Fiesta Caravan visits
Central Mindanao (SOCSKSARGEN)
• 229 hatchlings of marine turtles released in Sarangani Bay • Isulan, SK mayor assures welfare of children a top priority • 30 Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in Maasim can now start their small business • DSWD 12 launches supplemental feeding program in Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, South Cotabato • Philhealth enforces new case rates packages
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
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)
OUR COVER
Today’s cover features the Maria Cristina Falls in
Iligan City 2
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• PhilHealth-Caraga will implement the new payment mechanism • ‘Bonok-Bonok sa Surigao’ Trade Expo opens at Luneta • Brgy. Libertad’s version of “Discipline Zone” earn legisla tor’s nod • PNP IAS top official commends Police Regional Office 13 • AGI-ORSITE Up at Butuan City Police Office
Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula) • Muslims end Ramadhan; urged to sow peace, love, unity • DepED-Zambo. Norte conducts EBEIS training for school
heads, IT coordinators • ARG Adiong Eid’l Fitr Message • Dipolog Moslems celebrate Eid’l Fitr
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Aquino arrives in Beijing BEIJING, China: President Benigno S. Aquino III arrived here Tuesday evening on board a Philippine Airlines Special Commercial Flight PR 001 on the first leg of his five-day state visit, three city swing to the People’s Republic of China.
BEIJING, China—Philippine President Benigno Simeon Aquino III is received by Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin upon arrival at the Beijing Capital International Airport for his five-day State Visit to the People’s Republic of China (PROC) Tuesday night (August 30). The visit is expected to boost the Philippines-China relationship and will showcase the country as an investment haven to Chinese businessmen following major reform measures President Aquino has initiated in the government. The President will witness, along with Chinese President Hu Jintao, the signing of several agreements that will boost cooperation between the Philippine sand China in trade, infrastructure, mass media and culture. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by: Jay Morales / Malacañang Photo Bureau). 4
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
ONE MINDANAO
3
Aquino arrives... from page 3
Aside from Beijing, the Gokongwei,
President is also scheduled
Jr.,
founder Tan Ching, Federation of Fil-
and chairman emeritus of ipino-Chinese Chambers of
to visit the cities of Shanghai JG Summit Holdings, Inc;
Commerce
and
Industry;
and Xiamen.
Washington Sysip, founding and Francis Chua, president
chairman of SGV and Co.; of PCUU and PCBC.
The Chief Executive,
accompanied by some Cabi-
Jose Pardo, chairman of the
net members led by Foreign
PCCI Council of Business Chinese
Affairs Secretary Albert del
Leaders; Tony Tan Caktiong, Minister Liu Zhenmin, Chi-
Rosario and a large delega-
chairman and chief execu-
tion of businessmen, about tive officer of the Jollibee
He was welcomed by
nese
Assistant
Foreign
Ambassador
Philippines
Liu
to
the
Jianchao,
270, arrived at exactly 10:30 Foods Corporation; Antonio Deputy Diector General of pm at the Beijing Capital Air-
Cojuangco, chairman of the Protocol of the Chinese For-
port here.
Nabasan Subic Development
Corp.;George
Ty,
bers who joined the Presi-
chairman
Metrobank; led by Charge d’Affaires ad
dent include Finance Secre-
Teresita Sy Coson, co-chair-
tary Cesar Purisima, Public
person of SM Investments and Consul Maria Teresa Al-
Works and Highways Sec-
Corporation; Carlos Chan,
mojuela, and First Secretary
retary Rogelio Singson, De-
chairman of the Liwayway
and Consul Noel Novicio.
fense
Voltaire
Holdings; Ramon Ang, presi-
Gazmin, Trade and industry
dent and chief executive of-
President and his official del-
Secretary Gregorio Domin-
ficer of San Miguel Corpo-
egation were whisked to the
Other Cabinet mem-
Secretary
of
eign Ministry Die Bohua and
Group Philippine Embassy officials interim Alex Chua, Minister
From the airport, the
go, Energy Secretary Jose ration; Manuel Pangilinan, Diaoyutai State Guesthouse Rene Almendras, Transpor-
chairman of the PLDT Co.;
where he is billeted.
tation and Communication Lucio Tan, founder, group
Secretary Manuel Roxas II,
chairman of Lucio Tan Group
ment of diplomatic relations
Presidential Spokesman Ed-
of Companies; Andrew Tan, between the Philippines and
win Lacierda, and Presiden-
chairman
of
Allied
Since
the
establish-
group China on June 9, 1975, the
tial Adviser on International Inc. (Megaworld); Erramon bilateral
partnership
Relations Domingo Lee.
Aboitiz, president and chief
tween
executive officer of Aboitiz
has reached unprecedented
Among the top busi-
the
two
be-
countries
nessmen accompanying the Equity Ventures; Alfredo Yao, levels in terms of political/ President include -- John chairman Zesto Corporation; security and regional coop5
4
ONE MINDANAO
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Aquino arrives... from page 4 eration, trade, investment,
The Philippines-China
third largest trading partner
agriculture, tourism, cultural
economic and trade coop-
of the Philippines, and the
and
eration continues to serve
fastest growing source of
people-to-people
ex-
changes, which have ben-
as the engine that drives tourists.
efited the two countries and
Philippine-China relations to
peoples.
greater heights. China is the
Aquino to promote Philippines to investors in five-day China trip
A
side from forging better relations with China, President Benigno Aquino III said his state visit to China will showcase the Philippines as an investment haven to businessmen there following major reform measures he initiated in the government.
BEIJING, China—President Benigno Simeon Aquino III converses with Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan during a meeting at the China World Hotel Wednesday (August 31). After the meeting, the President and the Vice Premier will be gracing the on-going PhilippinesChina Economic and Trade Forum at the Conference Hall the hotel, in line with his five-day State Visit to the People’s Republic of China (PROC) from August 30 to September 3, 2011. The visit is expected to boost the Philippines-China relationship and will showcase the country as an investment haven to Chinese businessmen following major reform measures President Aquino has initiated (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Jay Morales / Malacañang Photo Bureau). 6 Wednesday, August 31, 2011
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5
Aquino to promote... from page 5
“Bilang pangatlong pinakamalaking katuwang sa pakikipagkalakal ng Pilipinas, hindi po natin palalampasin ang pagkakataon na makipagpulong sa mga negosyante sa Tsina upang hikayatin pa silang mamuhunan sa ating bansa,” the President said in his departure speech at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Centennial Terminal 2 on Tuesday evening. “ B i b i g ya n g - d i i n natin sa kanila na bukas at maaliwalas nang muli ang ating bayan sa patas na pagnenegosyo,” he added. The chief executive said he will invite Chinese investors to come to the Philippines noting that under his leadership the country’s business climate changed tremendously and the country has become a dynamic
6
player in the Asian region. The government has carried out major reforms to bring back the confidence of foreign investors to put their investments in the country, the President said. “Asahan po ninyong sa patuloy at puspusan nating pagtatrabaho para sa pagasenso ng nakakaraming Pilipino, marami pa tayong maipapasalubong sa inyong good news,” he said. “Bumabangon na po ang Pilipinas, buhay na buhay na ang kumpiyansa ng ating ekonomiya at mga mamamayan tungo sa tuloy-tuloy nating pagasenso at pag-abot ng ating mga pangarap,” he added. Aside from promoting the Philippines to Chinese investors, President Aquino said
ONE MINDANAO
the controversial West Philippine Sea issue will be discussed with Chinese President Hu Jintao. The President said, he and President Hu Jintao will witness the signing of several agreements that will boost cooperation between the Philippine sand China in trade, infrastructure, mass media and culture. While in China, the President said he will also visit Filipino communities there to express his gratitude to them for their continuous sacrifice for the welfare of their families and the country as a whole. The President’s fiveday visit to China will include stops in Beijing, Shanghai, and Xiamen. The President returns to the country on Saturday, September 3, 2011. Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Aquino’s visit to China to generate about $2-$7 billion worth of investments BEIJING, China — President Benigno S. Aquino III’s first state visit to the People’s Republic of China is expected to generate about $2-billion to $7-billion worth of investments from various Chinese companies in support of the public-private partnership (PPP) projects of the administration.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Cristino Panlilio gave this ‘ballpark figure’ in an interview he granted with the members of the media at the Traders Hotel here, early Tuesday evening, hours before President Aquino arrived. Panlilio was firm and positive about the ‘serious investments’ the government would get from various Chinese companies which would likely go to mining, infrastructure, energy, ship building, and the agri-business sectors. Panlilio said there are Chinese mining firms that have expressed interests in Wednesday, August 31, 2011
joint ventures with Filipino companies given the country’s richness in major minerals such as gold deposits, copper, nickel, and chromite. Panlilio also cited significant improvements made by the Aquino administration towards preventing corruption in the government based on the latest assessment made by the World Bank which could increase the level of confidence investors have in the country. The DTI executive pointed out that President Aquino’s state visit to China has become so significant given the ‘historic high’ number of business delegation
(250) that decided to get involved in this presidential trip. “We’ve never had a business delegation as big as this in the history of presidential trips abroad and what is significant about this trip is that there was so much interest— and, of course, this is KKB (kanya-kanyang bayad). Nobody is in for a free ride here. All [members] of the business delegation are putting good money to be here in support of the President’s drive, you know, for business and trade promotion. So ang ganda ng feeling, ang ganda ng atmosphere,” Panlilio said.
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Filipinos in Shanghai eagerly await arrival of President Aquino SHANGHAI, China: Filipinos living and working here eagerly await the arrival of President Benigno S. Aquino III who is scheduled to meet them as part of his five-day visit to the People’s Republic of China from August 30 to September 3. Philippine Consul General Charles Jose underscored the timeliness of the President’s visit saying trade and bilateral relations between the two countries would further be strengthened. “Of course lahat ng Filipino rito ay very proud to be able to see our President holding his own talks with the Chinese counterparts,” Jose said in an interview. “I think the State Visit is very timely and very significant. We expect the visit to be able to further strengthen the friendly ties that exist between the Philippines and China. And we also expect the visit will promote coopera-
8
tion between the two countries in many different areas including trade and investments, tourism promotion, culture and education exchanges and peopleto-people contacts,” he added. According to Jose, there are 4,000 Filipinos working in Shangai and nearby areas categorized as 1) professionals, executives and senior managers; 2) middle management, medical personnel, and teachers; 3) service staff, Filipinos working in restaurants and bars; and 4) overseas performing artists and entertainers. “I would say Filipinos here are enjoying very good conditions,
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especially the professionals here in Shanghai. They are provided housing by their employers, and are even allowed to bring their families to join them here,” Jose said. Jose also said that the President’s visit would spur economic growth for both countries as he expects the Chief Executive to pitch the Philippines as an alternative investment site. As part of his visit here, the President will keynote the Philippines and Eastern China Business Forum where he will invite Chinese businessmen to invest in the Philippines, according to Jose. Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Malacañang says repatriation of Filipinos in Libya continues
T
he Aquino government’s Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) will remain in Libya and Syria to help officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in providing assistance to overseas Filipinos workers and Filipino citizens who want to be repatriated. During a regular news briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the government’s teams are still in the crisis-affected countries to address the plights of the Filipinos there. She said repatriation and evacuation efforts will carry on. “We continue to keep a close eye on the situation and we are hoping na wala namang masasaktan na kababayan natin,” she said. Valte confirmed that the DFA has ordered the recall of Philippine Ambassador to Syria Wilfredo Cuyugan in Damascus. Executive Director Eric Endaya of the Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant WorkWednesday, August 31, 2011
ers Affair, an expert in repatriation, will replace Cuyugan this September. “Ang sabi po ni DFA Sec. Albert del Rosario he felt the presence of a more experienced operative in repatriation was required in Syria kaya ni-recall si Ambassador Cuyugan,” Valte told reporters. Valte also said the Philippine government has already issued a statement recognizing the National Transitional Council as the legitimate representative of the people during this period of transition in Libya. In a statement posted at the Official Gazette, the Philippines expressed hope that the Council will lead Libya towards peace and stability.
“The Philippines and Libya share a history of excellent relations based on friendship, understanding, and mutual respect. The Philippines looks forward to working with the Libyan people in sustaining and enhancing this relationship,” the Aquino government said. The Philippines hopes to be able to contribute to the rebuilding of the new Libya in the form of Filipino professionals in the construction, energy, and medical fields. The Philippine government reiterates its thanks and appreciation to the Libyan people for keeping Filipinos in Libya safe throughout the conflict.
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Palace assures public of close monitoring of bird flu resurgence to prevent entry of virus
M
alacanang assured the public that the Aquino government is closely monitoring the influx of agricultural produce from neighboring countries amid reports of a possible resurgence of the dreaded bird flu virus as reported by the United Nations - Food and Agriculture Organization (UN-FAO). In a press briefing at the Palace on Wednesday, Presidential Deputy Spokesperson Abigail Valte said that concerned government officials led by Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala are keeping an eye on the situation to prevent the possible entry of the bird flu virus in the country. The UN-FAO issued the warning saying the migration of wild birds could have brought back the virus H5N1 to previously virus-free countries and that a mutant strain was spreading in Asia. The mutant strain of H5N1, which can apparently sidestep defenses of existing vaccines, is spreading in
10
China and Vietnam, the UN-FAO said in a statement as it urged greater surveillance to ensure that any outbreaks are contained. Recent reports of the World Health Organization indicated that on August 14, a sixyear old girl from Cambodia died due to bird flu. She was the eighth victim succumbing to the dreaded disease in that country. Elsewhere, FAO says bird migrations over the past two years have brought H5N1 to countries that had been virus-free for several years, including Israel, the Palestinian territories, Bulgaria, Romania, Nepal and Mongolia. The World Health
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Organization says globally there have been 331 human deaths from 565 confirmed bird flu cases since 2003 when it was first detected. The virus was eliminated from most of the 63countries infected at its peak in 2006, but it remained endemic in six countries: Bangladesh, China, Egypt, India, Indonesia and Vietnam. The FAO further said that the number of outbreaks in poultry and wild bird populations shrank from a high of 4000 to302 in mid-2008, but outbreaks have risen progressively since, with almost 800 cases reported in 2010-2011.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
President Aquino joins Muslim community in celebration of Eid ul-Fitr
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III greeted on Wednesday the Philippine Islamic community in the celebration of the Eid ul-Fitr.
“I join the Muslim Filipino community in the celebration of the Eid ul-Fitr. Faith and patience being among the important virtues in Islam, they are reflected in Ramadan and further celebrated in Eid ul-Fitr. Thus, your festivity serves as a recompense for the sacrifices which you have willingly endured during your spiritual struggle in the past month,” the President said in a statement posted at the Official Gazette on Wednes-
day. “But more than just a culmination of your abstinence,” President Aquino said, “Eid ul- Fitr should be taken as an occasion to strengthen your consistency in observing the principles of your religion, including the lessons of humility and discipline. I urge you to remain firm in your resolve to help us enliven the daylight of renewal in our nation. “I commend your resilience in surpassing the test of your de-
votion to the Almighty. May this event signify another year of meaningful and peaceful relations in your community and among all Filipinos,” he said. Ramadhan is the month when Muslims observe a strict fast for a period of 12 hours daily, from sunrise to sunset. This year 2011, the holy month of Ramadhan started on August 1. The ending of Ramadhan is marked by the holiday of Eid ulFitr. (JS)
Palace vows to continue working hard for more economic growth
T
he administration of President Benigno Aquino III will continue to work hard to achieve even more economic growth as well as to improve the quality of life of the Filipino people, Malacanang assured Wednesday.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
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11
Palace vows... from page 11
Presidential
Spokes-
as evidenced by President noted.
man Edwin Lacierda issued
Aquino’s five-day state vis-
the statement after the Na-
it to the People’s Republic
Agriculture grew by 7.1 per-
tional Economic and Devel-
of China from August 30 to cent in the second quarter,
opment
Authority
(NEDA) September 3.
Lacierda said that the
which, he said, “implies that
announced that the Philip-
pine economy grew by 3.4
Wednesday that the Philip-
been equitable.”
percent in the second quar-
pine Gross Domestic Prod-
ter of 2011.
uct (GDP) grew 3.4 percent scious effort to not merely
NEDA announced on the growth, while lower, has “We are making a con-
Lacierda said that the in the second quarter of this spend enough, but to spend
Aquino
administration
is
aware of the necessary steps
year.
wisely—in a way that will The GDP growth is be-
bring the most benefit to
that it must take to further low NEDA’s forecast of 4.5
each Juan and Juana de la
improve the Philippine econ-
percent to 5.5 percent, and Cruz,” he added.
omy.
private
analysts’
average
He said that while the
“Despite the gains we projection of 4.9 percent, administration is working to-
have made over the past and some international or-
ward increasing the econom-
year, we remain aware of ganizations’ average outlook ic growth, “we keep in mind the necessary steps we must of 5.0 percent in the second
that we are working, ulti-
take to achieve even more quarter.
mately, so that more Filipino
growth. We have been ac-
“We also note that sev-
people can say that they are
celerating spending to pro-
eral external factors, such
no longer hungry, that they
vide added stimulus to the
as economic uncertainties in
finally have decent health
economy,” he said.
America and Europe, unrest
care, and that they have the
“July 2011, which will
in the Middle East, and nat-
opportunity to improve their
be included in the 3rd Quar-
ural disasters in Japan have
lot in life—areas in which we
ter GDP Growth assessment, all had an impact on our dosaw us spend P133.45 million—the
highest
have been successful.”
mestic economy,” Lacierda
monthly said.
“Rest assured that our
administration will continue
national government spend-
“And while we recog-
its hard work toward the
ing figure so far this year,”
nize the importance of im-
true and lasting growth this
he added.
proving our GDP, we also
nation has, for so long, de-
Lacierda
said
the bear in mind that is not
Aquino administration is also
completely reflective of how
working to bring in more
the Filipino people are liv-
served,” he said. (co)
foreign direct investments ing,” the Palace spokesman
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Wednesday, August 31, 2011
7 towns in NorMin qualify as “Makamasang Tugon” areas by Apipa Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 31 (PIA) --- At least seven (7) towns in Northern Mindanao qualified to benefit from the Makamasang Tugon (MT) Project under the Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS). Four (4) of these towns are from the province of Lanao del Norte while the other three (3) are from Misamis Occidental, said Concepcion Dorado, KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Project Coordinator. These towns are Bacolod, Salvador, Sapad, and Sultan Naga Dimaporo in Lanao del Norte, and Lopez Jaena, Concepcion, and Don Victoriano in Misamis Occidental, she further said.
The Makamasang Tugon is a government project that integrates community driven development (CDD) principle and processes in the local planning and investment programming cycle by way of a local government unit (LGU) - led implementation scheme through the KALAHI CIDSS technology. Dorado explained that MT is not different from the KALAHICIDSS stressing that it is also a project of the
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) where the selected LGU is the lead implementer of the project. Since it is an LGUled initiative, the project will be implemented by the LGU with the application of strategies and promotion of the KALAHI-CIDSS principles of participation, transparency, and accountability, she pointed out. She further explained that the cho 14
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
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13
7 Towns... from page 13
sen LGU will also have to agree and accept the requirements of MT such as the provision of the local counterpart contribution, as well as, the obligation and commitment to implement the project. Meanwhile, Atty. Araceli F. Solamillo, Regional Director of DSWD-10, said the MT project is awarded to
those municipalities that have excellently completed three (3) KALAHI-CIDSS cycles. She said the good implementation performance during the KALAHI-CIDSS cycles is the basis in choosing the municipality to benefit project. KALAHI-CIDSS is a poverty-alleviation project that helps poor local communities de-
velop necessary skills to achieve improved access to basic services, as well as, to participate in more inclusive local governance by providing them seed funds to select, implement and sustain small-scale community infrastructure projects using a CDD approach. (PIA10)
SPES to reach more than 7,000 beneficiaries in region 10 CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 31 (PIA) --- More than 7,000 students in Northern Mindanao will be benefitted by the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), this year. This was disclosed by Atty. Allan Macaraya, Regional Director of DOLE, region 10, after DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz announced that President Benigno S. Aquino III has earmarked an additional P168.1-
14
million for the SPES. Baldoz has revealed during her recent visit, here, that Northern Mindanao will be getting a share of Php13 million from the increase of the SPES budget that brings to Php19 million, the re-
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gion’s total SPES budget for the year. “The number of students who will be benefiting from the program is expected to double-up with the increase in the regionwide SPES budget,” Macaraya said. 15
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
SPES to reach... from page 14
Data from the DOLE-10 show that around 3,757 students in the region were benefited from the SPES, last summer, with the original budget of Php6.7 million.
An annual program of the government mandated under Republic Act No. 7323, SPES is designed to financially assist poor but deserving students pursue their ed-
ucation by encouraging their employment during summer and/or Christmas vacations. Employers of the SPES beneficiaries are granted incentives by allowing
them to pay only 60 percent of the beneficiaries’ salaries or wages while the remaining 40 percent is paid by the government through education vouchers. (PIA-10)
Php12.55B proposed budget of SDS agencies/SUC’s for 2012 get RDC-X nod by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Aug. 31 (PIA) – The Regional Development Council, Northern Mindanao (RDC-X), has endorsed the proposed budget, amounting to Php12.55 billion, of the social development sector agencies and state universities and colleges (SUC) of the region.
Of this amount, Php9.5 billion or 76 percent has been budgeted for personnel services, Php1.3 billion or 10 percent for maintenance, operating and other expenses (MOOE) and Php1.7 billion or 14 percent for capital outlay (CO). Mandated to coordinate and set the direction of all economic and social deWednesday, August 31, 2011
velopment efforts in the region, RDC-X reviewed the agency programs, taking into consideration, that the accomplishment of the Administration’s more important goals will not be sidetracked by resource constraints. The preparation phase of the FY 2012 budget prioritizes sectors/purposes/ expenditures within the
context of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MREF), the Organizational Performance Indicator/Framework (OPIF), and the Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) approach. The FY 2012 budget preparation calendar in the region as synchronized with the
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15
Php 12.55B... from page 15 schedules indicated in National Budget Memorandum No. 107 was confirmed by RDC-X in its meeting last Feb. 15, Mayor Lawrence Ll. Cruz of Iligan City, Chairperson of RDC-X, said. Technical services of the proposed programs/projects was conducted by RDC-X secretariat based on the 2012 priorities supportive of President Aquino’s Social Contract with the Filipino People and its 16 areas of transformational leadership. These are reflected in the national/regional development goals and target and strategies in the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP) and Medium Term Regional Development Plan (MTRDP) for CY 2011-2016. Meanwhile, the budget proposals incorporating the priority program/projects of the following regional agencies and SUCs were presented to the Social De-
velopment Committee (SDC) during a simultaneous sectoral consultation: Department of Education (DepEd), Php9.23 billion, Department of Health (DOH), Php1.4 billion, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Php164.89 million, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Php77.81 million and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Php69.67 million. Covered by the DOH proposed budget are: Center for Health Development-Northern Mindanao (CHDNM), Php263.32 million, the Province-wide Investment Plan for Health/ Annual Operational Plan (PIPH/AOP) for the region’s five (5) provinces and Cagayan de Oro, Php294.26 million. Also covered are the DOH Retained Hospitals, such as, the Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) in Misamis
Oriental, Php333.33 million, Mayor Hilarion Ramiro Regional Training and Teaching Hospital (MHRRTTH), Ozamiz City, Php176.99 million, Amai Pakpak Medical Center, Lanao del Sur, Php335.67 million and Meanwhile, the proposed budget of the following SUC’s are as follows: Bukidnon State College (BSC), Malaybalay City, Php113.01 million, Camiguin Polytechnic State College (CPSC), Camiguin, Php38.83 million, and Central Mindanao University (CMU), Musuan, Maramag, Bukidnon, Php388.05 million. Mindanao University of Science and Technology (MUST), CDO, Php199.33 million, Misamis Oriental State College of Agriculture and Technology (MOSCAT), Claveria, Mis. Or., Php61.23 million, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Php765.8 million and 17
16
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Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Php 12.55B... from page 16 Northwestern Mindanao State College of Science and Technology (NorMinSCST), Tangub City, Php41.09 million. Cruz, however, said the proposed budget for
the Amai Pakpak Medical Center located in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, requires a separate endorsement of the Regional Planning and Development Board (RPDB)
of the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), considering the geographical jurisdiction of RDC-X which is solely for the region. (PIA-10)
DTI warns public vs. mislabeled Christmas decors, unsafe products by Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy
MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, Aug. 31 (PIA) – As consumers bargain for Christmas decors when the cool “ber” months start September 1, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) urged millions of the buying public to be watchful and nosy of mislabeled products. “This is to assure quality and safe use of the products, so that they really do get the best value for their money,” Provincial Director Ermedio Abang of DTI Bukidnon said. He also warned consumers not to rush into buying fake or imitation products that are cheap. “Consumers must check the labels and look for the brand or Wednesday, August 31, 2011
trade mark, name and address of manufacturer, country of manufacture, net quantity, and toxicity warning, if applicable,” Abang said. He also stressed that under the Consumer Act of the Philippines, the manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers are liable to consumers for injuries caused by defective
and unsafe products, as well, as for the insufficient or inadequate information on the use of certain products and the hazards they pose. “Those found not conforming to the minimum labeling requirements face administrative charges which include a maximum fine of Php300,000 per violation,” Abang said. (PIA-10)
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Lanao Norte to benefit from WFP livelihood project by Lovely A. Rosario TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Aug. 31 (PIA) – The Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte (PGLDN), through its Provincial Population Office, has launched the “Gender and Livelihood Project (GLP),” at the Macapagal Training Center, here, last Aug. 25. TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Aug. 31 (PIA) – The Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte (PGLDN), through its Provincial Population Office, has launched the “Gender and Livelihood Project (GLP),” at the Macapagal Training Center, here, last Aug. 25. A special project of the World Food Programme (WFP), the GLP aims to empower women as the central actors in sustainable rural development for improved management of food and livelihood. “The WFP will be giving trainings to women’s organizations on the cultivation of vegetable gardens, creation of garbage bins and solar dryers as income-generating activities,” Annanette Daniel, Provincial Population Officer, said. The launching event was participated in by the Parent and Teachers’ Asso-
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ciations (PTA) from the different elementary schools, women’s groups, local government units (LGU), and representatives from rural health units of the different municipalities of the province. “A livelihood project, like this, is always a welcome development because it helps empower our women sector and allow them to provide additional income for their family,” Daniel said. Under its Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO), the WFP has identified several conflictaffected communities in the provinces of Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao for the implementation of the GLP. Initially, five (5) women’s groups will be the beneficiaries of the project with each group composed of 20-30 members. Meanwhile, Baicon Macaraya, Head of WFP-
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Iligan City, expressed her thanks to PGLDN for its support to the GLP. She also thanked the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). “Through this project, we hope to deliver some solutions to the problems faced by these communities,” she said. The project will start next month and is scheduled to last for nine (9) months, Macaraya added. (PIO/PIA-10)
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
DA promotes non-rice staples by Mai Gevera-Macapagat
DAVAO CITY, Aug 31 (PIA) - The Department of Agriculture (DA) regional office is bent in reaching the target of maintaining or lowering rice consumption at 120 kilogram per capita. Regional Technical Director Norlito Agduyeng of the DA-XI told the Davao media that the present administration is focusing efforts on the Philippine Food Staples Self-sufficiency Roadmap which encourages other alternative food source to be produced and consumed by Filipinos. Rice-eating consumers are then encouraged to eat less rice and substitute it with other crops like cassava, sweet potato and banana to contribute in the goal of attaining national food
security and rice selfsufficiency within the next three years. “This program is designed for the Philipines not to totally rely on rice since rice demand all over the wonder is growing. We should then look for other alternative food sources.” said Agduyeng. Data showed that DA’s Rice, Corn, and High-Value Commercial Crops programs will work on augmenting the supply of alternative staples by 3.5 percent a year and increasing their accessibility and affordability.
One of the government interventions in achieving this goal is managing consumption. The DA will partner with other government agencies and NGOs to promote, instead, unpolished or brown rice. Brown or unpolished rice has become the center of a campaign by organic farming advocates that seeks to ensure health and nutrition security, and in support of a government campaign for the efficient production and consumption of unpolished rice. Organic rice varieties, 20
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DA promotes... from page 19
cultivated using organic fertilizers which farmers can source from their farms and easily produce, will allow farmers with very little capital to do business. DA is also bent to reduce table wastes. Table wastes account for approximately 3
tbsp/day or 14 g/day in raw form. If 94 million Filipinos waste this much every day, the total rice wastage would amount to 480,000 tons of milled rice in a year—enough to feed 4 million people for one year. The government agency is also focused
in increasing the production of non-rice staples by 3.5 percent annually and ensuring supply and market availability for white corn, sweet potato, and cassava.(PIA 11/ Mai Gevera-Macapagat)
Padaca cites quiet workings of Aquino’s administration DAVAO CITY Aug. 31 (PIA)- Good governance advocate Grace Padaca cited President Noynoy Aquino’s successes in promoting good governance which is often unreported in the news. “By and large tama ang nilalagay niyang tao.” (by and large he chose the right people) Padaca said commenting on good governance achievements of the year-old Aquino administration. She said that the crucial part of good governance is putting the right people in the government. Padaca
likened it to conducting an orchestra making sure that the right people are playing the right musical instruments. Padaca cited as example current Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse Robredo who has worked quietly to promote good governance
in the DILG. “I was talking with the Governor of North Cotabato (Gov. Emmylou Talino-Mendoza) she told me about the reforms strictly implemented by Secretary Robredo.” One reform was the strict implementation of the 20% development fund in local government units. 21
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Padaca cites... from page 20
The Secretary has ordered LGUs to refrain from using these 20% development funds for non-developmental purposes like gifts and bonuses. The DILG Secretary has sought to clamp down the misuse of these funds which represents 20% of the Internal Revenue Allotment given to the LGUs. She said that on the news, one could hear or read Sec. Robredo’s involvement in the Manila Hostage Crisis and the drive against jueteng but what is not reported are the things he is doing to restore the sys-
tem which was screwed up in the past. She cited the case of a fireman who personally wrote to the Secretary about their delayed payslips, the Secretary promptly replied that he will immediately look into that matter. Robredo also a co-champion in KAYA NATIN, a citizen-based movement that advocates good governance. Padaca was the former Governor of Isabela Province. Despite her physical disability (she is a polio survivor) she managed to defeat an entrenched political dynasty in her
province and served for two-terms as provincial governor. During her incumbency as Governor in 2008, she won the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service in recognition for her pursuit of electoral reforms in the province. Padaca is on a current KAYA NATIN tour around Davao City visiting local campuses and interacting with various sectors in the City particularly the youth and students which are the staunchest supporters of KAYA NATIN. (PIA 11/RG Alama)
COMVAL to work closely against Trichinosis Compostela Valley, Aug. 31 – The province through the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office (PVO) is now closely working out to fight against infection brought out by Trichelenella Parasite to all kinds of animals. 22
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COMVAL to work... from page 21
Trichinosis is caused by Trichinella species (also termed parasitic nematodes, intestinal worms, and roundworms) that initially enter the body when meat containing the Trichinella cysts (roundworm larvae) is eaten. For humans, undercooked or raw pork and pork products, such as pork sausage, has been the meat most commonly responsible for transmitting theTrichinella parasites. It is a food-borne infection and not contagious from one human to another unless infected human muscle is eaten. However, almost any carnivore (meat eater) or omnivore (eats meat and plants for food) can both become infected and, if eaten, can transmit the disease to other carnivores and omnivores.
For example, undercooked or raw bear meat can contain livable Trichinella cysts. Therefore, if humans, dogs, pigs, rats, or mice eat the meat, they can become infected. In rare instances, larvae that inadvertently reaches cattle feed can infect cattle. The first move of the provincial government to prevent trichelenella parasite from hastily spreading is the joint undertaking of the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office, the Municipal Agriculturist’s Office and the Municipal Economic Enterprise Office of the eleven municipalities wherein 1,400 blood samples will be taken from all piggeries in commercial farms, semi-commercial farms and backyard productions all over the province. Pigs from five
to six months will be the target of the blood samples. Collected blood samples will then be submitted to Veterinary Quarantine Services (VQS), Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit XI for the screening and examination by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory. The collection of blood sample started last August 10 and will end up on August 31, 2011. PVO head Dr. Benjamin Reyno explained that Trichelenella is a Zoonotic Parasite and pig is its intermediate host. If a person eats a half cook meat positive with trichelenella parasite, he will have round worms. A person can be diagnosed with such illness through a diagnostic procedure in the blood called ELISA or Enzyme Link Immunosorbent Assay. Trichelenella in23
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COMVAL to work... from page 22
fection is just like Foot and Mouth Disease, Hog Cholera and Pseudo Rabies- a common animal illness closely monitored because of its negative effects and damages to human. It is included in the list A
priority in the Office International Epizootes. Aside from the conduct of incidence surveillance of the Trichilenella epidemiology, a regular conduct of SORRA Trypanosimiasis Infestation is also
conducted by the Provincial Veterinarians Office through collection of blood samples in goats, carabaos, cows, horse and sheep. (Rodielyn A. ManugasIDS COMVAL/PIA 11)
ComVal, Regional Winner to TESDA’s various awards COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE, Aug. 31 --- The province received various awards from the Technical Education & Skills Development Authority (TESDA). The Provincial Government is adjudged as the 2011 Regional Kabalikat Award winner for the Local Government Unit (LGU Category) and will represent the region to the national level. Kabalikat Award is a recognition given by TESDA to its outstanding partners for their best practices in the development of manpower in terms of
skills, abilities, work attitudes, and values. Governor Uy’s exemplary performance in good governance particularly in providing great support in empowering the technical vocational programs has able to produce more skilled Comvalenyos. Cited are the provision of series of skills training, conduct of skills competitions and showcase, schol-
arship program, and other community development programs. Another regional awards are declared for ComVal with Mr. Bob R. Mirasol, the Provincial Community Training & Employment Coordinator (CTEC) as the winner to the 2011 Search for the Regional Best CTECs (provincial category), and Ms. Joan C. Pintal of the LGU- Monkayo as the 24
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ComVal, Regional... from page 23
regional winner also for the municipal category. To add to, HOLCIM Philippines, another active partner in manpower development has also conducted a skills competition with their ‘Galing Ma-
son Program’ (a joint initiative of HOLCIM, TESDA, and Philippine Constructors’ Association- PCA) in which out of the 15 competing Masons in the region, Mr. Edwin M. Niñal of ComVal is the 2nd Runner Up while Mr.
Eldie M. Escudero and Mr. Angie L. Elisang also both representing the province took the 4th and the 6th places respectively. (grace almedilla, ids- comval/PIA 11)
Comval’s family health fair on Sept.2-3, DOH Health Fiesta Caravan visits COMVAL Province, Aug. 31 -The Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan (LBK) Family Health Fiesta is one of the additional highlights on September 2 and 3 at Maco, Compostella Valley. So supportive is Governor Arturo T. Uy of health promotion that four years ago -- through EO 035-2008 -- he declared September 3 a day to celebrate the Family Health Fair. This year, the special feature of the fair is LBK as well as the declaration of the the province as Filariasis-free during the two-day event. LBK is a comprehensive health promotion caravan of the Department of Health (DOH) through the National Center for Health Promotion (NCHP). It is the seventh in a series of 10 destinations which started in Capas, Tarlac in March, and the second of
only five LBK destinations in Mindanao. Governor Arturo T. Uy considers the province blessed for having been chosen as one of the destinations of the pilot year of the LBK health caravan of DOH. “When I assumed of-
fice, there were many concerns that I must address, and I knew that Health is the biggest challenge of all. Since then, we have made both ends meet in order to put health programs and service delivery on top of our priorities. Our annual Family Health Day is one 25
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Comval’s family... from page 24 way of increasing the level of awareness and extending the health services for our constituents, hence, we make it a point to have the hosting of such in all 11 municipalities in the province,” Gov. Uy said. Comval commences its Family Health Fair on 2008 with the launching of the Family Health Book at the capitol after which Nabunturan and Montevista followed, respectively, in the hosting of the fair. Mayor Arthur Carlos Voltaire Rimando shares the honor with Gov. Uy in hosting LBK in Maco. Rimando is thankful that Maco particularly the indigent residents of its remote barangays would learn more about the importance of pre-natal checkup, safe pregnancy and delivery, proper nutrition, birth spacing, child immunization and handwashing in a fiesta setting. Aligned with the Aquino Health Agenda of universal access to qual-
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
ity health care, LBK aims to bring information and education to remote communities. It has been promoting health-seeking behaviors to fathers, mothers of reproductive age, and their young children aged 14 and below in Tarlac, Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija, Negros Occidental, Bohol and Bukidnon. LBK features a bus customized with consultation and examination clinics and a health promotion arena of interactive exhibits, health classes and wellness activities, storytelling sessions, cooking demos, games and raffles, dance contests and entertainment shows focused on safe motherhood, child nutrition and family health. LBK carries the message, “Walang Iwanan sa Biyaheng Kalusugan” (No One Left Behind in the Journey to Health), to highlight the government’s goal of providing all Filipinos access to health. The
health fiesta caravan proceeds to three other pilot sites afterwards, namely: Zamboanga del Norte and South Cotabato in Mindanao; and lastly, to Maguindanao in ARMM, throughout 2011. LBK is made possible by a partnership among the DOH, the municipality of Maco and the province of Compostella Valley, the US Agency for International Development (USAID), and private partners such as the Dona Marta T. Hernandez Foundation of Victory Liner Inc., Philippine Daily Inquirer, Melawares, Air21, OMF Literature Inc., Dakila – Philippine Collective for Modern Heroism, Manila Broadcasting Company, UNTV, Center for Community Journalism and Development, Philippine Press Institute, and the Alliance of Young Nurse Leaders and Advocates International, Inc. (IDS Comval/PIA 11)
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229 hatchlings of marine turtles released in Sarangani Bay by CT Apelacio GENERAL SANTOS CITY, August 31 (PIA) – A total of 229 hatchlings of marine turtles have been released recently in Sarangani Bay, said officer-in-charge Eduardo Saladero of the Sarangani-base Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO).
According to him, it is the mandate of the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to protect and conserve endangered marine species in its area of responsibility. He said the release was made on separate occasions by the Community Environment and Natural Resources Offices (CENROs) based in Glan and Kiamba, Sarangani. Saladero cited a total 133 hawksbill turtle hatchlings freed at Gumasa, Glan coastlines while the 96 hatchlings of Olive Ridley turtle
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were released at sitio Bialong, Poblacion, Kiamba. Both freed early August. Forester Jessica Guilao of CENRO Glan said they have found at least “100 eggs in the nest, three of those were unfertilized, 97 hatched with only one mortality.” Saladero said the discovery of the hatchlings was a “shared” effort among different partners like the community folk, environment advocates and the local government units of Glan and Kiamba. He lauded the participation of the community residents
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and their cooperation with the DENR-PENRO saying it paved the way for such an initiative to become easier and successful. Saladero also said “DENR’s massive information drive” has been a great help and is effective in raising the level of awareness of community to get actively involved in the preservation of environment as well as in the protection of endangered species and habitats in their respective area. (CTA/PIA General Santos City)
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Isulan, SK mayor assures welfare of children a top priority by Dennis G. Domingo II KORONADAL CITY, Aug 31 (PIA) -- Mayor Diosdado Pallasigue reassured the people of Isulan that the welfare of the children will be on top of the priority list under his administration. In his speech during the launching of the Supplemental Feeding Program (SFP) in Sultan Kudarat, he pleaded the parents of day care children to help in the implementation of the program for the children. He said, “DSWDled feeding program is just a supplement to the LGU-initiated programs for the children. We cannot rely solely to the government’s
social services.” He added, “the parents must at all times be responsible for the health and education of their children.” Gemma Rivera, assistant regional director of DSWD 12 turned over a cheque amounting to P1,057,200 to the municipality of Isulan recently as fund allocation for the viand. The procurement of rice through NFA
and the distribution of feeding utensils were facilitated by DSWD 12. With the SFP, a total of 13, 613 children in 580 day care centers in Sultan Kudarat including Tacurong City are targeted to be fed. The over-all funds for the viand turned over to different municipalitie in Sultan Kudarat Province amounted to P16,335,300. (DED/PIA 12)
30 Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in Maasim can now start their small business by Dennis G. Domingo II
KORONADAL CITY, Aug 31 (PIA) -- With P10, 000 capital fund assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s SEA-K or Self – Employment Assistance for Kaunlaran program, poor families of Maasim, Saranggani can now begin to materialize their business dreams. Erlinda Tangjal, “we are very thankful business and generate president of Smiley for this opportunity for income out of this in SEA-K Association said, us to start our small order to finance our 28
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30 Pantawid...from page 27
expenses at home and for the education of my children.” Tangjal currently is pregnant with 7 children whose husband is a fisherman. She is into balot vending and selling of peanut and other kakanin (native snack food). In an interview, Erlinda said that she has no permanent house. “My children and I leave with in my mother’s house. My eldest is already in second year high school,” she said.
With the money she received, Erlinda plans to buy supplies and utensils to expand her small business. “I can now accommodate bigger orders from my customers, thank you so much to the government,” she added. In a turn-over ceremony, Sarangani Vice Governor Steve Solon emphasized that the repayment rate of the beneficiaries will be strongly monitored. “Your performance in terms of paying back the fund assistance
(without interest) is one measure of the success of the program while your sustainability and self-reliance is the long term goal,” Solon said. DSWD 12 assistant regional director Gemma Rivera during her inspirational speech said, “There are 28 groups to be organized in Maasim to avail of the SEA K assistance. “We remind you to do your part or responsibilities as beneficiaries particularly in the repayment. (DED/ PIA 12/DSWD 12)
DSWD 12 launches supplemental feeding program in Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, South Cotabato by Dennis G. Domingo II
KORONADAL CITY, Aug 31 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 12 recently launched the Supplemental Feeding Program in the provinces of Sultan Kudarat, North and South Cotabato. Target of the SFP bato; 13,322 children 580 day care centers are 21,048 day care in 537 day care cen- in Sultan Kudarat. children in 940 day care ters in South Cotabato; Gemma Rivera, centers in North Cota- and 13,613 children in Assistant Regional Di 29
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DSWD 12 launches... from page 28 rector of DSWD said, Pallasigue, Koronadal “the program is a 120- City Mayor Peter Miguel, day feeding session Governor Arthur Pingoy among day care chil- Jr., and Mayor of Tuludren to be served during nan Lani Candolada exsnack time or break time pressed support to the in the morning or after- program and urged the noon session.” parents to continue pro “The budget allo- viding complete meal to cated for the viand is P10 their children before goper child per day to be ing to school to enhance served five days a week their learning skills. for 120 days,” she said. Kidapawan Mayor Rivera also pointed Rodolfo Gantuangco durout that the SFP is just ing the launching event an augmentation of the also said, “the local govagency to the local gov- ernment units have also ernment units’ nutrition feeding program to chiland children’s welfare dren of various age aside program. from the DSWD-led feed “This is just an ad- ing activity in day care dition to their regular centers.” meals,” she said. In region 12, a total Isulan Mayor Diosdado of 68, 960 children-ben-
eficiaries are targeted to be fed to among 2, 634 day care centers regionwide. The launching event was attended also attended by Tacurong City Councilor Psyche Sucaldito, Sultan Kudarat SP Member Generoso Pagatpatan, Kidapawan City Vice Mayor Joseph Evangelista and city administrator Rodolfo Cabiles, Tulunan Mayor Lani Candolada, Banisilan Mayor Betty Allado, SP Member Ayeng Pagal, chair on committee on family and social services. (DED/PIA 12/ DSWD 12)
Philhealth enforces new case rates packages by Dani Doguiles and Hanah Naanep KORONADAL CITY, Aug 31 (PIA) -- Effective tomorrow, September 1, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) through its service partners will be implementing new benefit case packages for medical and surgical procedures.
I n f o r m a t i o n erations Division Chief, nounced that based on from the office of the Dr. Miriam Grace G. Philhealth Circular 011 Philhealth 12 Field Op- Pamonag recently an- – 2011, eleven medical 30
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Philhealth enforces... from page 29 cases and 12 surgical cases were identified and given fixed reimbursement rates under the new scheme. Covered medical cases and the their corresponding package rates are: Dengue 1(Fever and DHF Grades I and II), P8,000; Dengue II (DHF III and IV), P16,000; Pneumonia I (Moderate Risk), P15,000; Pneumonia II (High Risk), P32,000; Essential Hypertension, P9,000; Cerebral Infarction (CVA I) P28,000; Cerebrovascular Accident with Hemorrhage (CVA II) P38,000; Acute Gastroenteritis, P6,000; Asthma, P9,000; Typhoid Fever, P14,000; and Newborn Care Package in Hospitals and Lying-in clinics, P1,750. Meanwhile, covered surgical procedures and their corresponding rates are as follows: Radiotherapy, P3,000 per session; Hemodialy-
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sis, P4,000 per session; Maternity Care Package, P8,000; Normal Spontaneous Delivery (NSD) Package in Level 1 hospitals, P8,000; NSD Package on Levels 2-4 hospitals, P6,500; Caesarian Section, P19,000; Appendectomy, P24,000; Cholecystectomy, P31,000; Dilatation and Curettage, P11,000; Thyroidectomy, P31,000; Herniorrhaphy, P21,000; Mastectomy, P22,000; Hysterectomy, P30,000; and Cataract Surgery, P16,000. According to the circular, these comprise 49 percent of the total claims from previous years. With such a scheme, the regional Philhealth office said members and health care providers will be able to predict the amount that Philhealth will be covering for each of the services provided. Turn-around time
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for claims processing and payment to providers will also be improved thereby assuring costefficiency for Philhealth and faster reimbursements for accredited providers and members. The professional fees of the medical cases shall be 30 percent of the reflected amount while that for surgical cases shall be 40 percent, the circular said. The same circular also provides for “No Balance Billing” Policy that shall be applied to all Philhealth-sponsored program members and their dependents on the covered medical cases and surgical procedures. “No Balance Billing” policy shall mean that no other fees or expenses shall be charged or paid by the patientmember above and beyond the packaged rates, the circular said. (PIA 12/PHILHEALTH 12) Wednesday, August 31, 2011
PhilHealth-Caraga will implement the new payment mechanism by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton
BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) – The Philippine Health Insurance (PhilHealth) members will be implementing the new case rates starting September 1, 2011. This was announced recently by Dr. Eduardo S. Gonzales, Medical Officer VII of PhilHealth- Caraga during the Media Briefing on Case Rates Payment held at the PhilHealth- Caraga Regional Office, Capitol Road, this city.
The case rates are fixed amount of reimbursements given to the eligible PhilHealth members and their dependents based on the medical cases and surgical operations. New case payment scheme will apply specifically to the following medical conditions: Dengue I (P8,000), Dengue II (P16,000), Pneumonia I (P15,000), Pneumonia II (P32,000), Essential hypertension Wednesday, August 31, 2011
(P9,000), cerebral infarction (P28,000), cerebro-vascular accident (P38,000), acute gastroenteritis (P6,000), asthma (P9,000), typhoid fever (P14,000), and new born package (P1,750). For surgical operations the following cases will be affected to the new case rate scheme such as radiotherapy (P3,000), hemodialysis (P4,000), maternity care package (P8,000), normal
spontaneous delivery package (P8,000 for level 1 accredited hospitals and P6,500 for level 2-4 accredited hospitals), caesarian section (P19,000), appendectomy (P24,000), chlolecystectomy (P31,000), dilation and curettage (P11,000), thyroidectomy (P31,000), herniorrhaphy (P21,000), mastectomy (P22,000), hysterectomy (P30,000), and cataract surgery (P16,000). 32
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PhilHealth-Caraga... from page 31
“This new mechanism of payment is called ‘per case payment’“, said Gonzales. Medical conditions under the per case payment scheme is based from the most common medical and surgical conditions (49% of the total claims) reimbursed by PhilHealth. Medical cases not mentioned above are not subject to the per case payment scheme of PhilHealth.
Gonzales further said that the new case rate payment scheme was made to improve turn-around time for claims processing and payment, to have a lesser cost efficiency, and faster reimbursement. Aside from the new payment scheme which will be effective this September 1, the No Balance Bill Policy (NBB) is also available to the patientmembers.
Gonzales said that “the NBB policy shall mean that no other fees or expenses shall be charged or paid for by the patient-member above and beyond the packaged rates”. All the sponsored program (SP) members and other type of members and their dependents can avail the NBB policy in all accredited MCP (nonhospital) providers. (MRA/PIA-Caraga)
‘Bonok-Bonok sa Surigao’ Trade Expo opens at Luneta SURIGAO CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) -- The Bonok-Bonok sa Surigao Trade Expo (BOSSTEX) is now open to public at Luneta Park along Borromeo Street, this city. The event will run from Aug. 26 to Sep. 15, 2011.
According to Sr. Tourisms Operations Officer Roselyn Armida Merlin the event is a joint project of the Surigao City Tourism Council, Surigao
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), & Departent of Trade & Industry (DTI). BOSSTEX features Surigao prod-
ucts, delicacies and handicrafts from 28 exhibitors. DTI Surigao del Norte Provincial Director Celestino Negapatan said during the open33
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‘Bonok-bonok sa Surigao’... from page 32
ing and ribbon cutting of BOSSTEX last Aug. 26 that it is the first ever Trade Exhibition being mounted in Surigao City. The exhibit aims to provide micro-entrepreneurs an apt venue to promote and sell their products.
Surigao City Mayor Ernesto Matugas commended the organizers of the said marketing event. Matugas is optimistic that the event would not only benefit the local consumers but the balikbayans, tourists and other out-of-
town guests as well. After a short program, the city mayor along with his wife and City Vice Mayor Danilo Menor led the opening & ribbon cutting of the differents booths in the trade fair. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)
Brgy. Libertad’s version of “Discipline Zone” earn legislator’s nod by Noel B. Najarro
BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) - The early implementation of its own version of a “Discipline Zone”, by Brgy. Libertad, which resulted to the decongestion of the pedestrian and the vehicular traffic along the portion of the National Highway fronting the Sto. Nino Shrine, the police regional headquarters until the T-junction of J.C. Aquino Ave.and Ambago Road, had earned the nod of Agusan del Norte 1st District Congressman (Butuan City-Las Nieves) Jose “Joboy” Aquino II. C o n g r e s s m a n court. It also marked Brgy. Captain Vincent Aquino was the guest the opening salvo of Rizal C. Rosario, and of honor and speaker the week-long celebra- my constituents here during the mass oath- tion of the “Araw Hong for leading the city bataking of Purok and Libertad” which will rangays in the early other sectoral officials culminate on Saturday implementation of the of the barangay last (September 3). ‘Discipline Zone’,” he Friday evening, held at “I salute the ba- said. The lawmaker nothe Barangay covered rangay officials led by ticed the cleanliness, 34
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Brgy. Libertad’s... from page 33
the orderliness and the decongestion of the pedestrian and vehicular traffic on the aforementioned portion of the national highway, reaching up to the foot of the Libertad Bridge, which also served as the barangay’s school and commercial belt. He said that he used to attend the early mass at the Sto. Nino Shrine every Sunday when he is in Butuan, and he observed the recent changes, cleanliness and orderliness at the said area.The barangay version of the “Discipline Zone” was jointly conceived by the barangay council of Libertad and the Butuan Police Station 3, led by PSupt. Manuel Jimenez. The program sought to implement the barangay ordinances of antijay walking, anti-illegal vending, anti-littering
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and other ordinances and the strictly. Its full implementation started last July after a massive information drive, a month ahead of the city’s larger and expanded version which will soon be fully implemented in September. Brgy. Capt. Rosario said that the program was implemented in anticipation of volume of traffic in view of the coming investments soon to be set up near the area. The official mentioned the forthcoming operation of the 10-million PNP-DOH Hospital and the planned building of the Bangko Sentral Ng Pilipinas (BSP) Branch there to mention some. Aquino also said in his message that performing barangays such as Libertad will be on the top of his list in terms of
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giving out of projects to be funded by his priority development assistance fund (PDAF). He promised to complete the the barangay central elementary school covered court, the barangay’s health center and day care center. He admonished the newly-sworn officers of the thirty-six puroks and other sectoral organizations to go beyond the realms of parties or politics. He mentioned that the recipients of his assistance out of his PDAF had crossed party lines. He also thanked President Benigno S. Aquino III, and the speaker of the house of congress for he was not accordingly given a hard time with the release of his PDAF despite of him being in the opposite side of the political fence. (PIA-Caraga)
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
PNP IAS top official commends Police Regional Office 13 by Noel B. Najarro BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) - A top official of the Philippine National Police Internal Affairs Service (IAS) who led a team of inspectors from Camp Crame Police national headquarters, in an interview Monday morning, commended the officers and personnel of the region for topping last years operational readiness, security inspection and test evaluation (ORSITE).
Police Chief Superintendent Alexander Roldan, the chief inspection and audit and also the overall leader of the eleven-member inspection team from IAS Crame and nine members coming from the RIAS, who conducted the annual general inspectionoperational readiness, security inspection and test evaluation (AGI-ORSITE) said that PRO 13 had topped the scene of hostage-taking negotiation, the scene of crime operation, the closequarter battle scene and the other aspects of operational readiness as rated according to the requirements of the police national headquarters. CSupt.Roldan said that their rating of the Caraga regional police of-
fice was validated when two of its municipal police stations, the Lianga Municpal Police Station in Lianga, Surigao del Sur and Trento Municipal Police Station of Trento, Agusan del Sur repulsed communist rebel attackers who tried but failed to overran the said police stations on two separate occasions. Roldan also disclosed that AGI-ORSITE which started Monday (August 29) and scheduled to end on Friday (September 2) will be conducted by the assigned members of his team and the augmentation from the regional internal affairs service (RIAS), from the regional headquarters down to the lower units. They will inspect the records and office management,
the operational readiness which will include the discipline of the police officials and personnel. The AGI-ORSITE according to the official “is a tool to make sure of their (police) capabilities, their assets management, logistical, administration and may include the state of morale of the uniformed and the nonuniformed police personnel.� Roldan also said that their annual general inspection result last year had earned no less than the interest of the Philippine congress to know about the status of the PNP personnel nationwide. He said that last year annual inspection result and findings were documented and was made into book form 36
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
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PNP IAS top... from page 35 of which congress was given a copy. Therein, they lawmakers saw the actual picture regarding the condition of the police particularly in the provinces. Among the things they saw during their past inspections which
should necessarily be addressed by the higher office, according to Roldan were the logistical requirements such as arms and ammunitions. Particularly here in Caraga region where insurgency is among the top concerns, he said.
Howbeit, he assured that every week they are sending their after activity reports to the Chief PNP together with their recommendations. They leave it up to him to direct the office concerned for appropriate action. (PIA-Caraga)
AGI-ORSITE Up at Butuan City Police Office by PSupt. Joseph B Boquiren BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) – The scheduled three-day Annual General Inspection on Operational Readiness, Security Inspection Test and Evaluation (AGI-ORSITE) starts on August 29 at Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) to test the overall readiness of the local PNP personnel.
Inspecting team from the PNP National Headquarters led by Police Chief Superintendent Alexander L Roldan arrived in Butuan City recently and went directly to the Police Regional Office 13 for the entrance briefing with the Regional Director, Police Chief Superintendent Reynaldo Serrano Rafal. Police Superintendent Edgardo M Hernandez of the Internal Affairs Service, a leader of the team who will evalu-
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ate Butuan City Police Office together with its five police stations and one mobile unit has already started evaluating BCPO. Also, Hernandez is expected to roam around the Butuan City starting August 30 and onwards to carry out evaluation of the performance of the police offices in the lower units. He has just finished evaluating BCPO headquarter offices and personnel the whole day of August 29. The police station
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level will also undergo series of inspection and evaluation to show the readiness of the individual members and their respective offices. These include rank inspection, office inspection, camp defense plan, fire drill, earthquake drill, hostage-taking negotiation, civil disturbance management, immediate action drill, conduct of checkpoint, and others. ( BCPO/PIA-Caraga)
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Muslims end Ramadhan; urged to sow peace, love, unity by Ali G. Macabalang
ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Aug 31 (PIA) – As the estimated 1.57 billion Muslims across the world celebrated the end of their Ramadhan fast through the Islamic festive time of Eid’l Fitr Tuesday, leaders in the troubled areas of Southern Philippines echoed the universal prayers for peace, unity and love in a fashion they deemed as the “only avenue” to bring the nation to greater heights. In the Philippines, which is known to be Asia’s lone Catholic nation, Muslim citizens are among the minority sectors searching for proper moments like the Eid’l Fitr (the Day of Feast in Islam) to sound off prayers for peaceful coexistence through interfaith dialogs as mean of fostering a convergent efforts on nation-building. In this city, for the
whole month of Ramadhan, radio stations and tabloids have heralded paid messages of Muslim leaders in various professions and sectors reminding their constituents on the need for spiritual and moral advancement to push for “universal understanding” especially in this era of political and economic complexities. Hadji Abdulmalik Ansaruddin A. Adiong,
incumbent acting governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, for instance, has underscored the “power of prayers in all times.” “Prayers help make people become good… And if Christians, Muslims and people of other faiths will persist to be good citizens, there would be no doubt that goodness will rein in our society,” said Adiong, a scion of local 38
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
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Muslims end Ramadhan... from page 37
political cum religious families. Thus, in his published greeting message for the Eid’l Fitr celebration, Adiong called on Muslim and Christian Filipinos “to sow understanding when there is confusion, reconciliation where there is feud, unity when there is dissension, and love where there is hatred.” He prodded the Muslim Ummah, the global community of an
estimated 1.75 people, according to a recent foreign media report, on the need to learn and harness basic traits of piety. “Let us develop the traits of Zikr (constant remembrance of God), Fikr (concern for our religion, community, and fellow mankind especially the hapless), Sukhr (modesty and contentment with gratitude to the Divine Providence), and Sabr(patience and
perseverance amid trials).” Adiong said these four traits, which had been practiced fervently by Prophets and disciples of Islam in various generations, are more imperative in the current times especially in our desire to leave in peaceful, harmonious, just and productive life. (BPI-ARMM/RVCPIA9 BaSulTa)
DepED-Zambo. Norte conducts EBEIS training for school heads, IT coordinators by Franklin P. Gumapon
DIPOLOG CITY, Aug. 31 - - Zamboanga del Norte public secondary and elementary school heads together with their information technology coordinators are now undergoing training on the Enhanced Basic Education Information System (EBEIS) conducted by the division planning unit. In the Philip- olic nation, Muslim searching for proper pines, which is known citizens are among moments like the Eid’l to be Asia’s lone Cath- the minority sectors Fitr (the Day of Feast 39
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Wednesday, August 31, 2011
DepED-Zambo... from page 38
in Islam) to sound off prayers for peaceful coexistence through interfaith dialogs as mean of fostering a convergent efforts on nation-building. In this city, for the whole month of Ramadhan, radio stations and tabloids have heralded paid messages of Muslim leaders in various professions and sectors reminding their constituents on the need for spiritual and moral advancement to push for “universal understanding” especially in this era of political and economic complexities. Hadji Abdulmalik Ansaruddin A. Adiong, incumbent acting governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, for instance, has underscored the “power of prayers in all times.” Wednesday, August 31, 2011
“Prayers help make people become good…And if Christians, Muslims and people of other faiths will persist to be good citizens, there would be no doubt that goodness will rein in our society,” said Adiong, a scion of local political cum religious families. Thus, in his published greeting message for the Eid’l Fitr celebration, Adiong called on Muslim and Christian Filipinos “to sow understanding when there is confusion, reconciliation where there is feud, unity when there is dissension, and love where there is hatred.” He prodded the Muslim Ummah, the global community of an estimated 1.75 people, according to a recent foreign media
report, on the need to learn and harness basic traits of piety. “Let us develop the traits of Zikr (constant remembrance of God), Fikr (concern for our religion, community, and fellow mankind especially the hapless), Sukhr (modesty and contentment with gratitude to the Divine Providence), and Sabr(patience and perseverance amid trials).” Adiong said these four traits, which had been practiced fervently by Prophets and disciples of Islam in various generations, are more imperative in the current times especially in our desire to leave in peaceful, harmonious, just and productive life. (BPI-ARMM/RVCPIA9 BaSulTa)
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ARG Adiong Eid’l Fitr Message ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Aug 31 (PIA) – Bismillahir rahmanir raheem. The Muslim ummah, a community of Islam believers numbering to 1.574 billion nowadays all over the world, according to a recent foreign media report, is preparing anew for the most festive moment in our religious traditions – the Eid’l Fitr marking the end of the fasting in the Holy month of Ramadhan. For the Muslims in the Philippines, the Asia’s lone Catholic nation, the Eid’l Fitr is declared as a non-working regular holiday to provide them ample time to celebrate the “Day of Feast” in the most meaningfully fashion they can. The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao governance gives it more
impetus in view of the ARMM’s being the haven of majority Filipino adherents of Islam. In behalf of our constituents and fellow public servants in the ARMM, my family and I wish all Muslims the best in their respective modes of celebrating the festive day. We could just hope that we have learned and practiced more the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and the Hadiths of Prophet Mohammad (salallahu wa-alaihis salaam) in the observance of the just-culminating Ramadhan fasting. In our daily routines, we Muslims are enjoined to learn and harness the traits of Zikr (constant remembrance of Allahu Ta’ala
through prayers and good deeds), Fikr (concern for our religion, community, and fellow mankind especially the hapless), Sukhr (modesty and contentment with gratitude to the Divine Providence), and Sabr (patience and perseverance in the midst of trials). These four major traits, which had been practiced fervently by Prophets and disciples of Islam in various generations, are more imperative in the current times especially in our desired ideals to sow understanding where there is confusion, unity when there is dissension, peace in time of turmoil, and love when there is hatred. In our brief stint 41
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Wednesday, August 31, 2011
ARG Adiong. from page 40
in the ARMM governance which the national government desires to lapse by the end of September, we did our best to abide by the ideals of Islam to be able to perform the duties and functions incumbent upon us, and leave a legacy of good governance.
Alhamdulillah (praise be to Allahu Ta’ala), despite various challenges, we believe we have delivered within or even beyond what has been expected us. As we celebrate the Eid’l Fitr, we ask for forgiveness for whatever mistake or shortcoming we might have
done in the course of performing our duties and functions in public service. Eid Mubarak! (BPI-ARMM/RVCPIA9 BaSulTa)
Dipolog Moslems celebrate Eid’l Fitr by Franklin P. Gumapon
DIPOLOG CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) - Moslems residents of this city have joined their fellow Islam believers from all over the globe in celebrating Eid’l Fitr (Feast of Ramadan) yesterday.
A news report issued by the City Information Office (CIO) said the Moslems here peacefully celebrated Eid’l Fitr, the festival of breaking the fast. Each year the Moslems undergo a month-long fasting that will end with the feast of Ramadan. During the feast the Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Moslems go to the Mosque at dawn for communal prayers followed by a party to be attended by their family members, relatives and friends. The elders would then be giving out gifts and money to children. The Moslem population in the city comprises less than 1
percent only. Majority of the people here are migrants from Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Siquijor and some parts of Luzon. The original settlers are Subanens but they have already assimilated with the Christians. (FPG/PIA-Zambo. Norte)
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