PIA REGIONAL OFFICES IN MINDANAO
An Electronic News Magazine of the Phliippine Information Agency Mindanao Clusters
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 Blogspot: www.piazampen.blogspot.com Facebook: PIA Region-IX
EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor ……......... EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI Managing Editor …….........
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 Blogspot: www.pia-10.blogspot.com
ABNER M. CAGA
Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Caraga Region Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X
Associate Editors ……....... NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX
OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII
Regional Desk Editors …...
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)
Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Elaine O. Ratunil, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region
Copy Editors ……………….. Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region Nora C. Lanuza Molde, PIA Caraga 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
Layout Artists ……………... Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region Editorial Advisers ……….... ATTY. JOSE A. FABIA Director-General Philippine Information Agency
Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN) 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
SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMA
Presidential Communications Operations Office
OUR COVER
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 Blogspot: www.piacaraga.blogspot.com Facebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur
features
Project 111111
of Iligan City
Photo Credits: Iliganblogger.com, iligangallery2.blogspot.com
National
Friday,
In This Issue...
Vol. 1 No. 117
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LGU Lamitan conducts medical, dental outreach program Region IX
CSC conducts flagship training in Tawi-tawi Region IX
Dave G. Malcampo,
Carnapping in Normin drop by 51%
Malaca単ang says concerned government agencies are ready for La Nina phenomenon................................................. SSS to launch provident fund in 2012 ........
Cover Story Project 111111 for the poor gets Iliganons support Lorry V. Gabule
Region X
Apipa Bagumbaran,
Region X
Davao, least vulnerable to climate change impacts - study
Region XI
Mai Gevera-Macapagat,
page 4
WESTERN MINDANAO
35IB, AKHL lead MWoP 2011 in LDN Cpt. Aldwin G. Cortez,
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page 15
NORTHERN MINDANAO page 21
30 32
DepEd updates RDC XII on K to 12 Olivia Sudaria,
Region XII
SOUTHERN MINDANAO
Biometrics para sa mga benepisyaryo ng 4Ps, susuportahan ng MSWD-Lutayan Ac Agad,
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PRC-Surigao del Sur Chapter joins nationwide Million Volunteer Run
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Butuan City pioneers launching of e-Blotter in Mindanao
Abel de Guzman,
Rio Connie Leah M. Flores.
page 25
Region XII
CENTRAL MINDANAO
page 28
Caraga Region
Caraga Region
CARAGA REGION
page 33
Cover Story
Project 111111 for the poor gets Iliganons support by Lorry V. Gabule
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arious groups in Iligan showed their support to the noble Project 111111 or the 11/11/11, November 11, 2011, a call to everyone to donate.
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Friday, December 9, 2011
The six figures ‘one’ stands for 1-City; 1-Project; 1-Goal; 1-Heart; 1-Day; 1-Record, explained City Councilor Michelle Sweet, project proponent, during a kick-off program ceremony held at the city public plaza. She said the project was launched with a motorcade around the city thoroughfare, converged at the city public plaza, on 23rd of July, 111 days before November 11, 2011. Marking the significant day, 11/11/11, the weighed used clothing has its final record of 11,754.35 kilos, with 76,650 pieces donation collected and accounted. The chairperson said there were other donations that were
not included in the weighing. All donations were placed in a warehouse. It took almost a week to sort out the donation and have it packed ready for distribution, Kagawad Sweet revealed. The Distribution Day was set on December 3, having it done for one day only, with a ceremonial turning over of packs received by the City Social Welfare Office (CSWDO) held at the National High School ground, Iligan City. This was well attended by the Project 111111 Chairperson, First Lady Gina Cruz (wife of the city mayor), other city
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officials, and all presidents and representatives of different groups who made this project possible. The first lady has been very active of the Project being the chairperson of the Committee on Ways and Means. They have solicited monetary donations to defray logistics expenses as to food, transportation and other expenses incurred during the sorting, packing and distribution of all donations. The chief executive, Mayor Lawrence Ll. Cruz and Lone Congressional
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Friday, December 9, 2011
District of Iligan Representative Vicente F. Belmonte added inspiration to the Iligan constituents with their all-out support to this Project. The 10,000 recipient families of this Project belonged to below poverty line as identified by CSWDO and all groups involved have their assigned area where to distribute the 10,000 packs to the city’s 44 barangays.
Through Project 111111 it has proven that Iliganons can make things possible as one city, with one project, to reach one goal, having people with one heart, and in just one day, getting a memorable one record. Friday, December 9, 2011
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Friday, December 9, 2011
Aquino inaugurates printer maker’s new plant in Batangas
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resident Benigno S. Aquino III thanked Japanese investors for their confidence in putting their business in the Philippines as he led Thursday the inauguration of Epson Precision Philippines Inc. (EPPI) new production facility in Lipa City in Batangas Friday, December 9, 2011
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“It’s always been important to us that businesses operating in this country find success and expand thei factories here.. And in these uncertain times, I would say that it is doubly important,” the President said in his message during the inauguration of Epson’s new facility. “So allow me to say that I am very thankful for your confidence in our country and that it is a privilege for me to be here to inaugurate this new factory with you today,” he added. The Chief Executive noted the work ethics and skills of Filipino workers, saying that these are the biggest selling points in attracting investments in the country. He expects the Eps o n fac10
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tory to produce high quality products as proof of the positive capabilities of the Filipino workers. As Epson’s P4.5billion new factory employs around 2,000 Filipinos, the President said this will substantially boost the country’s economy and change the lives of the workers and their families. These new jobs will bring them decent living, food on their tables and education for their children. The Philippine electronics industry directly employs around half a million Filipinos and this number has
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been steadily growing, the President said. He added that every direct hire has multiplier effects in job generation. Last year, investments in the industry reached a record high of $2.3 billion, according to the President, noting that from January to September of this year, it accounted for half of the entire country’s exports. The President led the activation of the factory operation and had a tour of the newly-opened Epson facility. Among those who joined the President at the event were Philippine Export Processing
Zone Authority (PEZA) Director General Lilia de Lima, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Toshinao Urabe, Epson Precision Philippines president Osamu Kosiishi, Epson Precision Philippines vice president Kazuyuki Amano and Seiko Epson Corp. President Minuro Usui. Epson expects the
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new factory to significantly increase the production of 3LCD projector and inkjet printers as demand grows in its emerging markets worldwide. With the opening of the facility, the company sees its total workforce growing from 6,000 workers to 8,000. Aside from its production facilities in Lipa City, Batangas, Epson also
has a production line in Cabuyao, Laguna. Epson is a global imaging and innovation leader dedicated to exceeding the vision of customers worldwide through its compact, energy saving, high-precision technologies. The company has a product lineup ranging from printers and 3LCD projectors for enterprise and home use. It also produces sensors and micro devices. Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corp., the Epson Group comprises more than 78,000 employees in 99 companies around the world. (AS)
Malacanang says concerned government agencies are ready for La Nina phenomenon alaca単ang announced that concerned government agencies and local government units (LGUs) are ready to implement contingency measures in the wake of the La Ni単a phenomenon, a Palace official said on Friday. Friday, December 9, 2011
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The national and local officials are all ready to carry out disaster preparedness plans to reduce the impact of natural disasters on people’s lives and properties, according to Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Friday. “Nakikita po natin na kahit hindi panah o n ng
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tag-ulan ay nagakakaroon na medyo malalakas na pag-ulan at bagyo. Tuloy-tuloy po ang disaster preparedness lalo po sa pagpasok ng La Niña,” Valte said. Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) officer-incharge and Science and Technology (DOST) Undersecretary Graciano Yumul said that Metro Manila and some areas in the Bicol and
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Visayas regions will continue to experience heavy rains in the coming days. Reports showed that local officials are ready to evacuate people living in areas declared as “highly susceptible” to flooding and landslides by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to protect people’s lives. The LGUs started monitoring areas prone to flooding in their respective municipalities especially during heavy rains. The local officials will install early warning systems that will monitor water level in the rivers. (JS)
SSS to launch provident fund in 2012 by Phres A. Evardone
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embers of the Social Security System (SSS) may enjoy higher pension benefits upon their retirement with the launch of the SSS Provident Fund next year. Friday, December 9, 2011
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“We are still on the process of laying out the system in place first before we can launch this program and our [members] can also prepare for this if they are interested.” said Marissu G. Bugante, SSS VicePresident for Public Affairs and Special Events Division. The said fund is a form of investment program which will enable all members to put on additional savings on top of their regular contribution to SSS. This fund will give members earnings rates that are higher than what regular saving deposit offers. The contribution can also 14
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be made anytime and does not have a fixed deadline like the regular monthly contribution. Members can withdraw their earned savings in three ways: through lump sum, as regular monthly pension or combination of both once they reached the retirement age of 60. This fund is meant for those who will retire and those who are totally disabled, among others. Self-employed, OFWs, regular employees and voluntary members can enroll under this program. Under this program, OFWs and the self-employed will
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be required to pay a monthly contribution of P1,560 for at least six consecutive months before they can enroll in the provident fund. Regular employees will pay the said fee on top of their regular SSS contributions. Bugante was guest at the program “Talking Points” sponsored by the Philippine Communication and Operations Office (PCOO), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), and the Philippine Broadcasting Service (PBS). The program was simultaneously aired over People’s Television (PTV-4) and Radyo ng Bayan.
8th Paskuhan festival kicks off
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illed with awe and excitement, thousands of people of all ages and from different places in Mindanao flocked on Thursday at the popular Christmas village of the city -- Plaza Luz, to witness the opening of the 8th ‘Paskuhan’ festival. Friday, December 9, 2011
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The festival which is traditionally held every first week of December has provided a total entertainment to the people thru the official lighting of the giant Christmas tree, Christmas decors. The activity was highlighted with a grand fireworks display, dancing fountain viewing and entertainment program. Mayor Samuel S. Co in his message said the festival which was officially launched under his administration in 2004 has provided the residents a venue filled with Christmas spirit. The heart of the event, Co said was the
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traditional lighting of one of the country’s tallest Christmas tree with an 87 feet tall and 350,00 lights constructed at the center of Plaza Luz. Co said the giant tree decorated with replica of candies and bags which symbolized sharing and giving of blessings. “ Our real source of joy is what you have received from others but what you need to do for the welfare and happiness for others,” Co stressed. In celebrating Christmas season, we to continue to live not only for our selves but for our children, Co added. The event was actively participated by the city tourism council, government officials and employees, where most of the presentations such as songs, dances and others were rendered by them. (JPA/GCC/ PIA9-Pagadian)
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LGU Lamitan conducts medical, dental outreach program LAMITAN CITY – Lamitan town mayor Roderick H. Furigay opted to hold a medical and dental outreach program to celebrate his birthday, back to back with the celebration of the 22nd anniversary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. City Information Officer Felipe M. Fernando said the outreach program is integrated with the celebration of Mayor Furigay’s 49th birthday on November 18 and the 22nd anniversary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Different agencies and organizations pooled their resources to contribute to the conduct of the Medical and Dental Outreach Program held at the Datu Dizal Cultural Center with the theme “Successful Partnership towards a healthy city”. The outreach program was held in partnership with the Special Operation Task ForceBasilan, 32nd Infantry Batallion, 17th Special
Forces Company, 55th Engineering Brigade, Philippine National Police, Philippine Charity Sweepstake Office, Basilan Medical Society, Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountant (PICPA), Rotary Club of Basilan, Barangay officials of Barangay Malakas, Barangay Malinis and Barangay Bohe Ibu, Association of Barangay Council, Child
Fund Philippines, and Claret School of Lamitan (CSL) Alumni class 1978-79. During the short program, mayor Furigay thanked all the co-sponsors for extending health services to the people of Lamitan, which complements the city’s mission for a healthy city. Ma. Erlinda A. Langkay, Medical Mission Coordinator and
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Volunteer of the PCSO said that the City Government of Lamitan has a good relationship with the PCSO in its request for medical assistance. Col. Ramon C. Yogyog, Commander Operation Task Force Basilan gave his message and had noticed some developments in Lamitan in terms of projects and medicines were given to revenues since his visit 538 medical patients and in 2001. 203 dental patients. In Free services and addition, the PICPA and the 1979 CSL Alumni have donated a total of three hundred pairs of slippers to the children of Barangays Malakas,
Malinis and Bohe Ibu along with some food stuff and clothing. The City Social Welfare and Development personnel conducted a supplemental feeding while the 32nd IB give free haircut services. In a simple ceremony, just few meters away from the medical venue, the Association of Baragay Captains also celebrated the 22nd Anniversary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao at the ABC Hall with a Duwa-a (prayer). (JPA/FMF/ RVC-PIA9 ZBST)
CSC conducts flagship training in Tawi-tawi by Dave G. Malcampo
ZAMBOANGA CITY -With the end-purpose of enhancing the performance of workers in government, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) started Monday its flagship training held in one of the beach resorts in Bongao, Tawi-tawi. 18
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Governor Sadikul Sahali was elated and commended the CSC for conducting the fiveday training for some 90 provincial employees. The Governor directed a full attendance of capitol employees, with instructions to its administrative officer to provide all necessary assistance to the organizers. Provincial Info Officer Nasser Tahang reported that the training is handled by the CSC’s Civil Service Institute. The course package include: Public Service Ethics and Accountability; Values Orientation Workshop; Basic Customer Service Skills,
and Service Excellence Delivery Program. As expounded by Rommin S. Advincula, training course intends to enrich the knowledge, skills, and attitude of state workers in line with the CSC’s mandate in transforming every civil servant into a “lingkod-bayani” or servant hero. Advincula is senior personnel specialist of CSC-CSI. Meanwhile, CSC Tawi-Tawi Field Office Director Shastri S. Buddin clarified that while CSC flagship program is focusing in the “first 20” provinces in the country, the Commission will also reach out to “five
critical sectors” of government, namely: the Departments of Education, Agrarian Reform, Health, and Social Welfare and Development. Buddin did not elaborate the rationale behind the CSC’s priorities, Tahang added. The team of trainers include: Minda G. Ostique, chief personnel specialist, HRD CSC-Davao City; Nilda A. Rigodon, chief personnel specialist, PSED CSC- Davao City; and Zhulfikar Rauf L. Candao, senior personnel specialist, CSC– ARMM, Cotabato City. (JPA/ DM/PIA9-ZBST)
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FPA holds cGMP confab in Region X
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by John D. Simborios
he Food Processors Association of Northern Mindanao (FOPANORMIN) conducted a one-day seminar on current Good Manufacturing Practices in Cagayan de Oro aimed at ensuring that food processors products are safe and in good quality products at par with international standards. In partnership with the Department of Health-Food and Drugs Administration (DOHFDA), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture (DA), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the seminar was attended by more than 200 food handling and processing representatives from the different parts of the region. Representatives of the Technical Education and Skills Development 20
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Authority (TESDA) in Northern Mindanao, headed by John D. Simborios, Chief of the Regional Operations Division and Aida de Gracia, Professor of Cagayan de Oro Bugo School of Arts and Trades (COBSAT) also attended the cGMP seminar to ensure that TESDA will be updated on the mandates of DOH Administrative Order No. 153, series of 2004 or the Revised Guidelines on Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing,
Repacking, or Holding Food and know how these good practices’ guideline will be integrated in TESDA offered qualifications. According to the DOH-AO, current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) is a key factor for industries to produce good quality, safe and affordable products aligned to international standards. Among the modules discussed are GMP organizations, premises, equipment, sanitation and hygiene, production and process control, quality control, documentation, quality audit, warehousing and distribution, product recall, retention of samples, and subcontracting of manufacturer and repacker. De Gracia, meanwhile, shared that she was able to attend GMP seminar sometime in 2004, which is now upgraded and conducted again
in Northern Mindanao after seven (7) years. She, who is handling Food Processing NC II, Commercial Cooking NC II, Bread and Pastry Production NC II, Housekeeping NC II, and Household Services NC II, said that she already included topics from the 2004 GMP seminar when she conducts training on food related qualification. There are common terms in the seminar, but the application of the DOH-AO is presented to suit to current times, she said. Simborios, who finished a TTCTE-CATFABS Culinary Arts comanagement program in TESDA Central Office, cited he becomes more enlightened on good manufacturing practices and aimed to be TESDA certified in Commercial Cooking NC II. (TESDA)
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Carnapping in Normin drop by 51% by Apipa Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental - The incidence of carnapping in region 10 notably decreased by 51 percent in the third quarter of 2011, from the 182 cases recorded in the same quarter of 2010 to only 89 cases this year. Data provided by the PRO-10 also disclosed that theft topped the list of index crimes with 1,393 cases, followed by physical injury and robbery with 623 and 457 cases, respectively. Among the police offices in the region, Misamis Oriental and Iligan City posted marked decreases in crime volume by 28 percent and 23 percent, respectively. In terms of average The decline in carnapping as monthly crime rate well as robbery incidence was largely (AMCR), the cities of Cagayan de due to the strategic deployment Oro and Iligan registered notable of more officers in crime-prone declines by 14 percent and 12 areas, said Police Superintendent percent, respectively. Leony Roy Ga, officer-in-charge of Iligan City also had the highest the Regional Operations and Plans crime solution efficiency rate (CSER) Division (ROPD) of Police Regional with 24 percent, followed by Bukidnon Office -10 (PRO-10). In a media forum held recently with 19 percent, Misamis Occidental here, Ga disclosed that total crime with 17 percent, and Misamis Oriental volume in this year’s third quarter with 16 percent. The region wide CSER, on was 3,932, down by 12 percent compared to the 4460 recorded in the other hand, improved by 7.4 percentage points, from nine percent the same period last year. in 2010 to 16 percent, this year. 22
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35IB, AKHL lead MWoP 2011 in LDN by Cpt. Aldwin G. Cortez
TUBOD, Lanao del Norte – Shouts for peace were heard along the national highway as all participants have meaningfully converged at the provincial Capitol site to celebrate the Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) 2011 here. The activity was dedicated to the youth as it is perceived to be a concerted effort of all sectors to which their role in nation building is highly emphasized. Further, the pioneering activity was facilitated by the officers and members of the Alagad ng Kalikasan sa Hilagang Lanao or AKHL, a group of volunteer environmentalists who advocate environmental protection, preservation and restoration of the endangered watersheds and coastal areas in the province of Lanao del Norte. AKHL, on other hand, is one of the brainchildren of the army’s 35th Infantry ‘Makamandag’ Battalion. “Our extensive partnership with the different civil institutions in our area of operation is in line with the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan” concept of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and in our case we focus our efforts in the grassroots level to identify necessary solutions to the existing issues or concerns in the area
particularly on environmental problems,” LtCol. Ferdinand S. Razalan, the Commanding Officer, 35IB. The MWOP celebration aims to raise consciousness for a culture of peace among the people of Mindanao by providing a venue for expression of peace aspirations in various forms and for convergence of peace initiatives. The program started with a doxology which was performed by selected graduates of the KABATAAN (KAagapay ng BAyan sa pagkamiT ng kapayapAAN) Seminar, a Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) concept in the grassroots level. It was followed then with an ecumenical prayer from the “tri-people” of Mindanao and other intermission numbers were performed by the KABATAAN graduates significantly portraying threats to Filipino families and essence of environmental protection. Five (5) potential youth leaders coming from the KABATAAN graduates expressed their ideas Friday, December 9, 2011
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about the different topics and aspirations to attain peace: environmental protection, preservation and restoration; rectifying the malpractices in the political arena; establishment of a permanent military camp in Lawiga Datu, Magsaysay; strongly denouncing “rido”; and the MWOP 2011 theme, “Common word between us and you: Love of God, Love of Neighbor.”
Other significant activities conducted during the rally: Film showing of a video documentary during the conduct of KABATAAN seminars; the hand printing of all VIPs and participants to form the 24
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peace collage; the ceremonial candle lighting of the PEACE word headed by Governor Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo; other cultural dance presentations of the youth coming from Nunungan, Lanao del Norte; and the “Makamandag Band” of the 35IB, back to back with the “Tabak” Band of the 1st Infantry Division in a concert for peace and rocked the night with songs of peace. Lanao de Norte meaningfully wavesitsflagtowardstheattainment of a genuine peace thru extensive inter-agency efforts to strengthen cultural cohesiveness between the tri-people. (35IB PA)
DSWD documents 41 human trafficking cases in Davao Region by Carina Cayon
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he Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the region reported that it has documented this year some 41 cases of trafficking in persons mostly involving adult women who were victims of illegal recruitment. DSWD technical assistant di-
vision chief Raquel Nuñez said that most of the cases were referrals from various government and non-government organizations in Davao Region, and one case from a rescue operation in Davao City. Nuñez told the media here during Friday’s Kapihan sa PIA that the cases were referred to DSWD for psycho-social interventions and provision of temporary shelters for the victims. She said that majority of the victims were adult women aged 2040 years old, and the youngest victim was a 16-year old child. Nuñez said that the victims were recruited illegally by agencies and pri-
vate persons for a promised employment outside the region and abroad. She added that Davao Oriental has the highest cases of human trafficking, followed by Compostela Valley and Davao del Norte. According to DSWD official, 27 of the victims have returned to their respective families after undergoing psychosocial interventions such as counseling, evaluation, and treatment from DSWD center. Meanwhile, Davao-based Talikala, Inc. has documented 35 cases of human trafficking for the period of January to November this year. “The victims were mainly trafficked for sexual trade,” reported Jeanette Ampog, executive director of Talikala a non-government organization catering to prostituted women and children. She disclosed that 90 percent or 33 of the victims were young girls aging 14-17 years old who were cunningly recruited to become call girls, Friday, December 9, 2011
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GROs, entertainers and dancers. According to Talikala’s documentation, the receiving places of the victims in Mindanao are in Samal Island, Panabo City, Sto. Tomas and Kapalong in Davao del Norte; Maragusan, Diwalwal and Monkayo in Compostela Valley; Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat and in Polomolok, South Cotabato. Ampog said that some of the young girls were brought by their recruiters from Davao to Cebu, and others from Davao to Palawan. Out of the 35 cases, Talikala has catered to 21 victims who were provided with psychosocial interventions including counseling, legal advices and provision of livelihood projects for the parents. However, Ampog lamented that the victims settled on not filing any case to court due to fear. Since the inception of Republic Act
9208 or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons in 2003, assistant regional prosecutor Barbara Mae Flores of the Department of Justice said that only 33 cases have been file in the courts of Davao Region. Flores reported that 22 of the cases were filed in Davao City, and the rest were scattered in the other courts of the region. She disclosed that five cases of human trafficking have already resulted to convictions, while about ten cases are undergoing trials. The rest of the cases were dismissed due to a reason that the victims were no longer interested to pursue the case, and some were archived because the accused were not arrested, Flores said. However, she added that the archived cases could still be reviewed to determine if a follow-up could be made with the help of the law enforcers.
Davao, least vulnerable to climate change impacts - study by Mai Gevera-Macapagat
DAVAO CITY - Davao City turned out the least vulnerable city to business risk and climate change impacts compared to other major cities like Cebu, Baguio, and Iloilo. In a study initiated by the World Wide Fund ( Philippines ) in partnership with the Bank of Philippine Islands Foundation, Davao has the least level of vulnerability, although some climate impacts like sea level rise, increased 26
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sea surface temperatures, ocean acidification, and inter-annual variability of rainfall are seen with high possibility of happening here. WWF’s Lory Tan explained that this study result should guide city leaders and the private sector to “do things the right way”. “ We are presenting this study for the local governments to be guided in their plans and for the private sector to consider these realities for their investments.”, he said. The study that ran for a year and made use of statistics, research, and stakeholders forum, also revealed that Davao will have to solve its in-migration as it emerges as a site of refuge for an increasing number of migrants. Statistics showed that the city logged more than 692,000 new inhabitants over 20 years. This is the highest number of inhabitants recorded of all four cities covered by the study. Davao also registered the highest population growth rate at 2.88 percent. Over 20 years since 1990 to 2010, tourist arrivals nearly tripled from 173,298 to 682,821. Total estimated tourist receipts hit P9.55 billion based on a 3.5 days average length of stay and an average expenditure of P4,000 per day/ tourist. Tan explained that as the city accommodates more migrants who realized that Davao is indeed the “promised land”, it also faces challenges for sustainable development especially in sustaining essential utili-
ties like water and power. The study sites “ high population growth and in-migration underscores that strategic development decisions must be made now.” One recommendation is for a multi-stakeholder formula for continuity must be set in place if the city aims to sustain and re-engineer it’s agricultural strengths and avoid disorganized congestion. In agriculture which was identified as the second development driver for the city, an equitable but productive formulas need to be developed along with agricultural production and land use to counter the growing Davao population. City Planning Officer Roberto Alabado welcomed the study result as a helpful tool for the local government. He said City Mayor Sara Duterte instructed him to make use of the existing study data for the city’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Davao, he said, is privileged to be provided with this information especially that the LGU is in the process of fixing and polishing land use policies. “ We will surely integrate these results to our comprehensive plan. We will also be talking to investors if they happen to own a property identified as high risk by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau. For those with existing infrastructure in those high risk areas, they will have to comply with our requirements.” he said. Friday, December 9, 2011
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South Cotabato implements new anti-firecracker campaign by Dani Doguiles KORONADAL CITY, -- Health officials in South Cotabato are embarking on a massive information drive on the government’s revised anti-firecracker campaign.
Dr. Rogelio Atur- cal government units lated injuries, usually dido, provincial health to reduce the number caused by indiscrimiofficer said, the Inte- of fire-cracker re- nate and irresponsible grated Provincial use of firecrackers Health Office (IPHO) and pyrotechnics, of South Cotabaespecially during to is implementChristmas and New ing Aksyon Paputok year. Injury Reduction This year, DOH’s (APIR). campaign will not APIR or “Give ask people to stop Me Five” is the using firecrackers. fire-cracker camIt will also not use paign implemented the fear appeal apby the Department proach through use of Health (DOH) and of images of injuthe Department of ries. Instead, the the Interior and Locampaign will show cal Government in an uninjured hand coordination with lowith five-fingers.
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Each finger represents DOH’s tip for the holidays: participate in community fire-
works display, celebrate a safe family holiday, use alternative noise-makers, join merry-making activities, and reflect on lessons of past year to guide New Year. Dr. Aturdido said today they will begin posting of APIR campaign materials in conspicuous locations in the entire province. This early, Dr. Aturdido has called on the public to refrain from irresponsible use of firecrackers. In the holiday
season of 2010, IPHO has recorded 36 cases of firecracker-related injuries, an increase of 38 percent compared to 26 cases in 2009. He added that last year, the olders victim was 68 years old while the youngest was only 3 years old. The Department of
Trade ang Industry has banned harmful firecrackers such as piccolo, super lolo, pla pla, judas belt and og. To those who would be injured by firecrackers, Dr. Aturdido advised immediate medical attention. “They should immediate wash the wound with clean running water and soap and immediately seek medical attention from nearest health center or hospital,” he said. Parents should not to allow their children to handle firecrackers; drunk adults should also refrain from lighting firecrackers, Aturdido added. He also called on the members of the media to help them in their anti-firecracker campaign.
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DepEd updates RDC XII on K to 12 by Olivia Sudaria ALABEL, SARANGANI -- The Department of Education oriented the members of the Regional Development Council XII on the status of the K to 12 implementation. K to 12, the bold innovation from the old 10 years to the new 12 years basic education curriculum has gained acceptance from the stakeholders as gleaned from the statements of DepEd
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planning and operations assistant secretary Jesus Lorenzo Mateo during the 36th regular meeting of RDC XII held at the Montana Resort, Alabel, Sarangani. Mateo said that
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after a brief explanation about K to 12 to respondents, they were asked to respond to the statement: “ The K to 12 Basic Education Program will be able to give students more sufficient
knowledge and preparation for work and college compared to those who finished 10 years of basic education only.� The results, according to Mateo, yielded the following answers: Those who believe - 63%; those who do not believe - 33% and those who did not answer - 4%. Mateo said the issues and concerns in the implementation of K to 12 commencing this school year 2011 with the universal kindergarten for aged five (5) kids including the inadequate classrooms and teachers are being addressed through the Basic Education Sector Reform Agenda (BESRA). BESRA, he said, comprises of the Key Reform Thrusts (KRT): KRT 1 - school based management; KRT 2 - teacher education and development; KRT 3 - national learning strategies; KRT 4 - quality assurance and accountability and KRT 5 - organizational development. Based on BESRA, DepEd has formulated an
schematic implementation plan of K to 12 from 2011 until 2024 when the country will have its first batch of graduates. Mateo also revealed the two (2) programs of transition management namely: science high school (SHS) readiness management and the K to 12 modeling. He explained that the SHS system readiness assessment will determine the current absorptive capacity per region of all educational institutions such as supply and ascertain current industry and employment demand and anticipate future opportunities as well as ensure the SHS system which will be instrumental in adequately addressing both. As to the K to 12 modeling, Mateo pointed out that this is aimed at developing K to 12 model schools per region and by specialization tracks by introducing senior high school ahead of its planned nationwide implementation on SY 2016 - 2017. The DepEd assistant secretary said to reach
out to the stakeholders in updating them on the proposed K to 12 implementation roadmap and generate commitment to the program, four (4) pre-summits will be held in the country. In Baguio City on December 5, the participants are the stakeholders from the Northern Luzon regions 1 and 2 and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and Central Luzon or region 3. In Cebu City on December 7, the pre-summit will be participated in by stakeholders from the Visayan regions of 6, 7, and 8 plus Zamboanga Peninsula or region 9, a Mindanao region. Regions 10, 11, 12, Caraga and ARMM stakeholders will participate in the presummit in Davao City on December 9. The last pre-summit will be held on December 12 in Manila to be attended by participants from Southern Luzon regions 4A and 4B, Bicol region or region 5 and the National Capital Region.
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Biometrics para sa mga benepisyaryo ng 4Ps, susuportahan ng MSWD-Lutayan KORONADAL CITY– Sa isang panayam, sinabi ni Lutayan Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Elenita Saavedra, na kanilang susuportahan ang plano ni secretary Corazon Dinky Soliman ng Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) hinggil sa paggamit ng biometrics sa kanilang programang Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
Ayon kay Saavedra, pabor ang kanyang tanggapan sa paggamit ng biometrics ng mga benepisyaryo upang maseguro na ang totoong mga benepisyaryo nga ang tumatanggap ng tulong ng pamahalaan. Marami kasi silang natatanggap na mga komento na ang mga naunang naipamigay na mga Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards sa mga benepisyaryo ay sinasangla ng mga ito. Nauna ng inilabas ang planong paggamit ng biometrics ng tanggapan ni DSWD secretary Soliman dahil sa maraming feedback na hindi totoong mga benepisyaryo ang gumagamit ng ATM cards sa pagkuha ng tulong pinansiyal ng pamahalaan
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para sa mga mahihirap na pamilya. Ayon sa ulat ng DSWD, ang paggamit umano ng biometrics ay ipa-pilot testing sa
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mga lugar na sakop ng Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) at Leyte sa taong 2012. (Ac Agad )
Int’l motocross competition set in Lanao del Norte by Robert E. Roperos
A
nother international sports competition will take center stage in the island of Mindanao on December 9-11, 2011 at the world-class Mindanao Civic Center in Tubod, Lanao del Norte.
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Friday, December 9, 2011
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The 2011 Enersel-Forte and Gov. Dimaporo World Motocross Grand Finale: Philippines versus World’s Best is a gathering of worldclass motocross riders aimed at promoting the province of Lanao del Norte. In a press statement, Lanao del Norte 34
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Provincial Information Officer Lyndon Calica said the event is in line with the thrust of the provincial government to promote the province as the Motocross Capital of the Philippines. Calica also said the international competition is also promoting Lanao del Norte
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as a peaceful and progressive province in Northern Mindanao. He added that the event will feature professional riders from the American Motocross Association (AMA) and will be highlighted by a Freestyle Motocross by top FMX riders from the United States.
PRC-Surigao del Sur Chapter joins nationwide Million Volunteer Run by Abel de Guzman
TANDAG CITY – With the declaration of the United Nations this year as the International Year of the Volunteers, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) - Surigao del Sur Chapter successfully conducted the nationwide Million Volunteer Run here on Sunday.
A total of 1,304 volunteer runners participated amidst the bad weather to show their support to the local chapter. The participants
run within the 4-kilometer route from Tandag City Boulevard - Bag-ong Lungsod – Dagocdoc – Telaje, Capitol Hills, Balilahan – Mabua and back
to the Boulevard for a short program. Meanwhile, a 30-minute HATAW exercise lead by the DepEd took place, while “arrozcaldo”
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was served by the local chapter to all volunteer runners. To add more colors in the cele-
bration, another activity was conducted by the local chapter to raise the much needed funds to help
sustain its chapter operation through a “BINGO SOCIAL” at the Boulevard. (PRCSurigao del Sur)
Butuan City pioneers launching of e-Blotter in Mindanao by Rio Connie Leah M. Flores BUTUAN CITY – The prime Crime Incident Reporting System in Mindanao was officially launched recently here in the presence of Philippine National Police (PNP) DirectorGeneral Nicanor Bartolome. To augment peace and order measures and prevent proliferation of crime incidents in the city, the electronic blotter (e-blotter) system of PNP was created to allow fast 36
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and accurate reporting of crime incidents and prevent tampering of police records. Also, through this new system, the local police could easily track and
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monitor the efficiency in responding to various crime situations. Accordingly, information from the PNP substations will be sent to the headquarters and
then entered into the database. This project is jointly developed by the Information Technology Management System (ITMS) and Directorate for Investigation in Detective Management (DIDM). The launching of the e-blotter system was led by Bartolome and Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr., together with Cong. Jose S. Aquino II of the 1st Congressional District of Butuan City and Las Nieves, PNP-13 Regional Director Reynaldo Rafal and Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) Di-
rector Jose Carillo. In his message, Bartolome acknowledged the support of the Local Government of Butuan, through Amante who donated six laptop units which were used for the said system. Bartolome also appealed to Butuan PNP personnel headed Carillo to strive harder to bring the city crime rate lower as a response to the enormous support of the city government to the local PNP unit. In his response, Mayor Amante cited the concerns of Butuanons
over the recent series of incidents here. “Though the number remains significantly lower compared to the previous year, we shall continue to pour out our best efforts to bring our crime rate even lower. The City Government of Butuan shall continue to support our police force in maintaining peace and order in Butuan City,� Amante said. He added that promoting good family values will also mean promoting good behavior which translates to peace and harmony in the society. The e-Blotter system is part of the good governance promoted by the administration of Mayor Amante, in support to the peace and security efforts of the Aquino administration as stipulated in the Philippine Development Plan for 2011-2016. (Butuan City PIO)
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