PIA REGIONAL OFFICES IN MINDANAO
An Electronic News Magazine of the Phliippine Information Agency Mindanao Clusters
Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)
EDITORIAL BOARD
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
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
ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Caraga Region
Associate Editors …….......
OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII
RUTCHIE C. AGUHOB Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X
NOEMI A. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX
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 Nora CL Molde, PIA Caraga Region
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 (SOCSKARGEN)
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
Managing Editor …….........
Copy Editor ……………….. Robert E. Roperos, 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
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)
EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI
Regional Desk Editors …...
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
Executive Editor …….........
SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMA Presidential Communications Operations Office
OUR COVER
features
Passig Islet
in Davao del Sur
Photo Credit: Davao del Sur Provincial Information Office
Cover Story :
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Passig Islet A glowing jewel in Davao del Sur by Carina L. Cayon
NATI O NAL
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Palace says Arroyos not victims of pa Palace expects fair SC judgment on Arroyo’s travel petition litical persecution Malacanang confirms work on NAIA upgrade has started Palace says Aquino satisfied over ongoing NAIA upgrade Puerto Princesa infra to be beefed up to accommodate more tourists
SOUTHERN Mindanao
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Vol. 1, No. 89
DOST XI to launch ‘Juan Time’ Local leaders, residents hail Botika ng Barangay program Globe telecom, media give early Christmas treats for street kids Comval solon to aid construction of jail facility DTI-XI conducts entrepreneurship seminars
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contents
WESTERN Mindanao
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18 19 19 20
Dipolog to host veterinarians’ annual regional confab
NORTHERN Mindanao
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DENR-LGU Camiguin ink MOA on the co-management of Mt. Ilihan EcoTourism project
Series of intensity II and III quakes jolt Valencia City anew
Debate on Press Freedom highlights COPC’s 60th founding anniversary, Nov. 11 Camiguin posts 17.15% increase in tourist arrivals for the first half of the year US Embassy tells NOrMin folks “No Office on Veterans Day, Nov. 11”
NFA plans- I-Rice exclusive by 2012 City gears up for Christmas season
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PCNHS students support tree planting program of RMN
CARAGA Region
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NOVEMBER 11, 2011
CENTRAL Mindanao
Butuan’s ‘Clean Ground, Zero Waste’ program in full swing PNP and military officials say Agusan del Sur is generally peaceful ANHS stude wins BCWD oratorical contest 1st Kahimunan & Panagdapog 2011 opens today in Marihatag Pangulong Aquino, siniguro ang kalayaan sa pamamahayag
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Best practices presentation on 4Ps
DOH 12 prioritizes contact tracing of HIV-AIDS victims
Price of Noche Buena products up by 6 to 21 percent – DTI S. Cotabato Police recruits ng PNP ARMM pormal ng sasabak sa training Kabacan, N. Cotabato patuloy ang buhay sa kabila ng pambobomba
Cover Story
Passig Islet A glowing jewel in Davao del Sur by Carina L. Cayon
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HIS BABY ISLAND called Passig Islet is turning into a glowing jewel offering a fine option for local and international tourists to relish a unique taste of nature in the province
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Little is known about the Passig Islet Aqua-Eco Park, but this is nestled at the waters of Sta. Cruz town in the province of Davao del Sur, barely 30 kilometers southwest of Davao City. A white sand islet off Barangay Bato in Sta. Cruz, this has already attracted and mesmerized visitors for its natural white sand, clear waters and a diversity of beautiful aquatic resources. This elongated-shaped islet the size of almost one hectare can be reached through motorized banca, or pump boats, in about five minutes from the beach jetty just near the highway. The small island was once barren and just resting lifeless. Four years ago, the provincial government of Davao del Sur started to put up the marketing infrastructure to groom the islet into an aqua-eco park tourism attraction. The brainchild of Senior Board Member Mercedes C. Cagas, chairperson of the committee on tourism, the islet drew
the government’s interest for its nature’s offering. Then, a variety of small coconut trees were planted and started growing neatly in arranged arrays, and thus began the pleasurable and dynamic life to radiate into the visitors of the resort, as well as to the residents of barangay in mainland Sta. Cruz. Old tires also ringed the islet to prevent sand erosion. To complement the beauty of the islet and to package it as a tourist destination, several amenities and features are put up to enhance a relaxing mood and a taste of beach leisure. Amenities
Among the amenities are nipa hut cottages shaped like mushrooms Friday, November 11, 2011
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placed conveniently around the islet, some of them constructed just near the beach for beach lovers to immediately take a dip at the clean and clear waters. Visitors may choose from among 16 open cottages at rates ranging from P100 (four units), P150 (three units) and P250 (nine units). Four closed and non-airconditioned cottages are also available for overnight stay at P500 per unit. Provincial tourism officer Rogel L. Panganiban said that additional cottages are being constructed to satisfy more demands for overnight accommodation. Panganiban said the resort also handles big gatherings to celebrate special occasions such as weddings, baptisms and birthdays, and office conventions and retreats. It has a pavilion that can house 1,000 persons. The concrete pavilion is located at the center of the islet and can be rented at P5,000, which also covers the purchase of crude oil for the generator set. Near the 6
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structure are newly refurbished comfort rooms and shower rooms for clients’ convenience. All price rates are reasonable at the resort including the entrance fee of P15 per adult and P10 per child. Peace and security
Panganiban assured of the peace and order in the islet, saying that the place is secured 24/7 with two Civil Security Unit personnel taking turns of ensuring safety and security of the visitors. There are four life savers assigned to keep tight watch on swimmers. They have undergone intensive training on water safety and rescue procedures. Aside from the security per-
sonnel, one receptionist is assigned daily to welcome the tourists and utility staff to maintain the cleanliness of the place. Environmental Policies As
with the waste segregation system in place. Panganiban said that fisherfolks are not allowed to fish around the islet to protect and preserve its biodiversity.
Economic Benefits Panganiban said that the Passig Islet Aqua-Eco Park is among the most tangible tourist destinations in the province that make economic enterprise, noting that the resort is almost selfliquidating after four years of operations. part of en- He said that the resort suring the protection and has gained economically preservation of the natural features of the resort, the Provincial Tourism Office and the Provincial Tourism Board Council have imposed the policies of no-cooking and waste segregation at the islet. The visitors are allowed to bring food and drinks, free of corkage fees. Cleanliness and orderly in the resort is required Friday, November 11, 2011
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20% portion. Local folks also benefit. The bangkeros, for instance, are fisherfolks in the barangay duly accredited by the PTO to make an extra income from transporting the resorts customers. How to get there Not many people know that the islet is just a 15-minute ride prompting the tourism office and council led by SB member Mercedes C. Cagas to continue to pour in ventures, investments and support for its further improvement. The income from the resort goes to the provincial coffer with 60 percent share, while the local government of Sta. Cruz and Barangay Bato will each have a
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in a private vehicle from Digos City plying the Digos-Davao route, and less an hour from Davao City. From the national highway, the entrance gate of the resort is just a short-distance walk away. The port is a board walk from the main gate and it is lined with mangroves naturally grown in a two-hectare area around the port. A floating restaurant is being constructed at the right side before reaching the port. A souvenir arcade is also being put up where local crafts and One Town One Product (OTOP) products will be displayed. Currently, the Passig Islet Souvenir Center is placed at the entrance of the resort. The round trip boat ride to the
islet is P20 per head. Panganiban said that 18 motorized bancas owned by accredited local bangkeros are readily available to transport visitors. Depending on the size, a pump boat has a seating capacity of up to 15 passengers, he said and disclosed that two units of pump boats will be used soon to ferry VIP visitors. Bangkeros may also be re-
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quested for a tour around the islet depending on the water level which according to Panganiban could rise up to six feet and with a low tide that could last up to two hours, and could reach as far as the 50-hectare area surrounding of the islet. Future improvements Being eyed as the core of the tourism program of the provincial government, the Passig Islet Aqua-Eco Park will be a hub of development work in the near future. Panganiban bared the plan of the provincial tourism to build a hotel with spa and massage therapy services. Open cottages will also rise within the mangrove area near the floating restaurant. Aside from the islet resort, the provincial government is also initiating the promotion of another tourism destination, the Aplaya Baywalk patterned from
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Baywalk at Roxas Boulevard in Manila. The baywalk area is part of resort located in Barangay Aplaya in Digos City. PTO and the Provincial Tourism Board Council are already coordinating with the local tourism officers and owners of local resort and tourist facilities, to learn more of their operations and related problems and to be appraised of other potential tourism areas. He credited SB Member Cagas for the recent gains in attracting tourists and visitors to the province and the “possibilities of bringing in ventures, investments, financial, technical and promotional support”. He said the provincial government has adapted “sustainable policies and safeguards” to protect tourists and visitors, making a significant impact in the growth of tourism in the province.
Palace expects fair SC judgment on Arroyo’s travel petition
M
alacanang expressed optimism on Friday that the Supreme Court would issue a fair judgment on the petition filed by former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel Arroyo for a temporary restraining order (TRO) to allow them to travel abroad. Friday, November 11, 2011
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“We’ve always expected the Supreme Court to be fair and independent-minded when it comes to issues that confront them… and in this particular issue, we hope that they will see the merits of our arguments and see that the government’s response is reasonable and reflects the sentiments of the Filipino people as a whole,” Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in a press briefing in Malacanang on Friday. Mrs Arroyo, who is now Pampanga second district representative and her husband Mike, are seeking a TRO on 12
the watchlist order issued against them by the justice department. The former leader wants to leave abroad to seek medical treatment. The Palace found an ally Friday after Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo issued a statement saying “fair judgment, not vindictiveness,” should prevail vis a vis Arroyo’s petition. Pabillo said it is important that the people seek the truth in this issue and they shouldn’t be overcome by vindictiveness or revenge to make someone suffer even more. Pabillo chairs the Catholic Bishop Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) National Secretariat for Social Action.
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On Wednesday, President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed his full support to Justice Secretary Leila De Lima’s decision disallowing the former president to travel abroad to seek medical help. He said the government was willing to shoulder the expenses of flying in medical specialists to look into Arroyo’s medical condition to ease the former president’s need to travel. The DoJ on Tuesday denied Arroyo’s request for an Allow Departure Order for lack of merit. The government’s arguments are bolstered by unconfirmed reports that Arroyo has sought asylum in the Dominican Republic. (AS)
Malacanang confirms work on NAIA upgrade has started
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n response to the directive of President Benigno S. Aquino III to improve the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to support the country’s tourism industry in the short term, Malacanang announced on Thursday that the refurbishment and upgrading works for the airports are now underway. Concerned government agencies are now fast-tracking the improvement of the country’s airport terminals amid the negative observations made by the
international community on the inferior condition of the 30-year old NAIA, according to Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda in a regular news brief-
ing in Malacanang on Thursday. Latest reports showed CNN’s travel site, CNNGO.com, puts the Ninoy Aquino International Airport No. 5 on its list of
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“World’s Hated Air-
Most ports”. NAIA particularly Terminal 1, now ranks No. 1 among the “Worst Airports in the World,” according to “The Guide to Sleeping in Airports,” an interactive website that gathers reports from various reviewers. “There are structural renovations being done. Apart from that, we also have the interior renovations being done as well. For instance, lighting, landscaping...,” Lacierda said, adding that Transportation Secretary Manuel Roxas II had already briefed the President about the on-going refurbishment and upgrading 14
works. Interviewed over Youtube’s World View Interview Series on Friday, President Aquino acknowledged the need to improve the NAIA saying the 30-year old structure has already reached its saturation point. “There is a plan for it, for improving the NAIA, structurally and aesthetically..... It will be a stop-gap measure for the next four or five years because we are looking at an alternative for that complex given the fact that it will be hard for us to support the 10 million tourist arrivals that we are targeting,” the President said over Youtube’s World View interview series . I t was reported earlier that the Aquino administration plans to relocate NAIA from Pasay City to Clark,
Friday, November 11, 2011
Pampanga. The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) is considering phasing out and selling the NAIA in PasayParanaque in order to pay for the cost of the proposed Clark International Airport that will meet the long-term airport needs of the country, and boost the country’s tourism industry. However, Sec. Roxas said the plan depends on the success of the NorthRail project and the privatization of the existing NAIA property. At the same time, the government hopes to raise around $2.5 billion with the privatization of the 440-hectare NAIA property to fund NAIA’s relocation to Clark. (JS)
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Palace says Aquino satisfied over ongoing NAIA upgrade
resident Benigno S. Aquino III expressed satisfaction over the ongoing refurbishment and upgrading works for the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in a bid to support the country’s tourism industry in the short term, a Palace official said on Friday. The Chief Executive went to the NAIA Terminal 1 Thursday afternoon unannounced and checked the airport facility, according to Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda during a regular press briefing in Malacanang on Friday. President Aquino and Transportation Secretary Manuel Roxas II strolled down the airport’s lobby to the customs and immigration areas, and even inspected the comfort rooms of the terminal. They were briefed by terminal managers on the work currently being done to improve the airport. “The President was satisfied. Secretary Mar Roxas will be conducting another briefing next
week on Terminal 1 and to discuss, for instance, how much it would take to renovate everything,” Lacierda said. Concerned government agencies are now fast-tracking the improvement of the country’s airport terminals amid negative observations made by the international community on the inferior condition of the airport. Interviewed over Youtube’s World View Interview Series on Friday, President Aquino acknowledged the need to improve the NAIA saying the 30-year old structure has already reached its saturation point. It was reported earlier that the administration plans to relocate
NAIA from Pasay City to Clark, Pampanga. The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) is considering phasing out and selling NAIA in order to pay for the cost of the proposed Clark International Airport that will meet the long-term airport needs of the country, and boost the country’s tourism industry. However, Sec. Roxas said the plan depends on the success of the NorthRail project and the privatization of the existing NAIA property. At the same time, the government hopes to raise around $2.5 billion with the privatization of the 440-hectare NAIA property to fund NAIA’s relocation to Clark. (JS)
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Puerto Princesa infra to be beefed up to accommodate more tourists
by Precie Catherine C. Cuarto
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mprovement and preparation for the airports and access roads leading to the Puerto Princesa City is one of the top priorities of President Benigno Simeon Aquino III and the local government of Palawan, according to Puerto Princesa City Mayor Edward S. Hagedorn.
In today’s Communication and News Exchange (CNEX) forum, Hagedorn said the government is
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pushing for infrastructure development in their city as more tourists are expected to explore the “Puerto Princ-
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esa Underground River (PPUR),” the country’s contender for the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Hagedorn said
President Aquino included the expansion of the Puerto Princesa Airport among the top priority projects of the Public Private Partnership (PPP), and many (private corporations) are giving international connectivity options for the said airport. Also included in the PPP top priorities are the access roads that are ‘very important’ for a more convenient travel to PPUR. “It’s good that we already received a small share for Malampaya. We have cemented the roadway to the Underground River. Before, it takes three hours to get there. Now, it only takes one hour and 20 minutes to reach the site,” Hagedorn said.
According to the City Mayor, Puerto Princesa is now receiving around 450,000 tourists since the PPUR campaign began. “If we win the contest, the number of tourists will be doubled. So, around 900,000 tourists will be expected to enter our locality,” he added. Due to the tourist influx, the government is encountering problems on hotel reservations and accommodations. The local government of Puerto Princesa has imposed a “carrying capacity” limit of 500 visitors per day to the said underground river site. “Because of the conventions— attended by thousands of participants—being held
there (Puerto Princesa), there are people who would plead, and sometimes we break the rule. We allow 700 (heads) a day,” said Hagedorn. He assured, however, that as the local government anticipates more tourist arrivals—more so if PPUR becomes one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and the major tourist destination in the country—the carrying capacity rule of 500 persons per day would be strictly enforced. Hagedorn was guest in the latest episode of the CNEX forum sponsored by the Presidential Communication Operations Office, Philippine Information Agency, and People’s Television-4.
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Dipolog to host veterinarians’ annual by Franklin P. Gumapon regional confab fficers and members of the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association-Western Mindanao (PVMA-WM) will converge here on Nov. 16-18 for their annual regional convention and scientific conference. City Veterinarian Russel T. Ganub disclosed that the said conference would tackle these topics, namely, basic pharmacology, veterinary epidemiology, clinical pathology, common recognition of swine, poultry and companion animal diseases, and small ruminant herd health management. Ganub also said the conference was designed to keep the veterinarians abreast with the latest knowledge in the practice 18
of veterinary medicine and, at the same time, strengthen the bond between and among them. The conference has for its theme, “Learn, Unlearn, Relearn: Reinforcing Today’s Veterinarians for Tomorrow’s Challenges.” It was also learned that the vet-
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erinarians will hold a free anti-rabies vaccination as well as spay and neuter operations on dogs. (JPA/FPG/ PIA-Zambo. Norte)
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NFA plans- I-Rice exclusive by 2012 by Jocelyn P. Alvarez
n compliance with the Food Fortification Law or Republic (RA) Act 8976, the National Food Authority (NFA) here plans to go Iron Fortified Rice (I-rice)exclusive next year. NFA Provincial Manager Remigio Samson said, the food authority targets to sell only Iron Fortified Rice (IFR) by 2012. “May time table kame, na dapat by 2012, Iron Fortified Rice na lahat nasa market,” (we have a time table that by 2012, Iron Fortified Rice should be available in all markets) “But we are afraid
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we cannot meet this target,” Samson added. Samson said NFA has been advocating in the entire Region IX to patronize I-rice and that the food authority has till December to do the I-rice advocacy. Samson assured that I-rice is the same price with the ordinary NFA rice which is P27.00 per kilo. “The cost of the
IFR should be higher because of the iron fortification, however, the government is subsidizing the extra cost,” Samson shared. RA 8976 known as the “Philippine Food Fortification Act of 2000.” It mandates the iron fortification of food products like oil, flour, sugar, salt and rice. (JPA/PIA-ZBST)
City gears up for Christmas season by Jocelyn P. Alvarez
(GSO).
amboanga City is gearing up for Christmas season as it has set aside some P1.3 Million budget for Christmas decoration. This revealed City General Services Office
Engr. Rene De La Cruz of GSO said the said allocation will be used to purchase plywood, Christmas lights, plastic, shower curtains, paints
and other paraphernalia needed to decorate the city for the 2011 Christmas celebration. De La Cruz said, GSO will still utilize “us-
able” Christmas materials/decors that were used last year. He said, around 90 workers from GSO were dispatched to do the
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“job” in decorating the city. GSO will illuminate the City Hall with Christmas lights and décors fallowing the theme for this year, “Toy Kingdom”. Other landmarks to be decorated are:Plaza Pershing which is con-
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sidered the heart of the city; Paseo del Mal- famous public park; Jardin Maria Clara; and selected city streets. Christmas tree will also be constructed at the Plaza Pershing. GSO will awe the public this Christmas season with it’s 50feet
tall Christmas Tree to be constructed at the Paseo Del Mar ground while a 20 feet Christmas tree will be placed at the Rotary Rotonda in Governor Camins. De La Cruz promises the public something new and exciting for this year.(JPA/PIA-ZBST)
PCNHS students support tree planting program of RMN by JGideon C. Corgue arrying seedlings of falcatta and mahogany and armed with bolos, the 180 junior students of the Pagadian City National High School (PCNHS), Danlugan walked past in the exceedingly wet and slippery road going to the tree planting site in Purok Gabi Uno to participate the synchronized tree planting activity of Radio Mo Nationwide (RMN) dubbed “Reverde Ako: Tutulong Ako” on Friday.
PNCHS principal Dindo Barce said their school as one of the two (2) identified schools by the RMN dxPR to participate the tree planting activity has been actively participating the activity to save the world and help sustain the environment. The identified 20
schools are the PCNHS and Lala National High School of barangay Lala. Barce said there were 1,200 seedlings planted in the site, 1,000 of whom are falcatta and 200 are mahogany. Barce said each student was required to plant 6 seedlings. “We did
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not only teach them to plant trees but to take special care for their survival, Barce said adding that the students will place also tree guard to protect the trees from animals. “We encouraged them to monitor the growth of the trees as the tree planting activity will be in-
their Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) subject to make sure that all the trees planted be taken cared of,� Barce added. Barce said this is the second time that PNCHS supported tree planting activity, the first was during the Science Club month on September this year where all senior students joined the activity.
Meanwhile, Barangay Councilor Daniel Carumba was very happy that his farm lot was chosen to be the site of the activity. “Dako nako nga kalipay nga napili ang akong uma nga dapit kapahigayonan sa maong kalalihokan tungod kay ako nagsuporta usab sa programa sa nasudnong kagamhanan nga mao ang pagpananom sa
kahoy ( I am very happy that my farm lot was chosen to be the site for the activity because I am supporting also the tree planting program of the national government),� Carumba said. Carumba said there were many trees planted in his farm during the past administration (JPA/GCC/PIA9Pagadian)
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DENR-LGU Camiguin ink MOA on the comanagement of Mt. Ilihan EcoTourism project By G. Thiam
he Department of Environment and Natural Resources, region 10 (DENR-10) has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Province of Camiguin and the municipality of Guinsiliban for the conservation of two (2) eco-tourism projects. These eco tourism projects include the Mt. Ilihan and the Cantaan Coastal Resource Management Project (CRMP), both in the municipality of Guinsiliban. Located in Barangay Butay, Mt. Ilihan is a 3-hour climb uphill where one will have a majestic view of the bluish-green ridge of the island’s mountains and slopes. The peaceful ambiance at its peak is an ideal camping site. Also called “Munting Calvaryo (Small Mt. Calvary), Mt. Ilihan is also a religious site often visited during the Lenten season and considered as the last frontier in the municipality. 22
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Under the MOA, DENR is tasked to conduct survey mapping and assessment of the area for Mt. Ilihan/Munting Calvaryo Forest Park and provide technical assistance in terms of protection, rehabilitation and development for effective forest resources management. The DENR shall also assist LGU-Guinsiliban in determining the carrying capacity on the site as an eco-tourism destination and other technical concerns, such as, the National Greening Program (NGP) and Solid Waste Management (SWM). For its part, the Provincial LGU
of Camiguin shall provide support for the project, such as, manpower, Integration of the comprehensive management and development plan to the provincial development plant plan. It shall also conduct monitoring and evaluation, together with DENR and the Guinsiliban LGU to enhance the operation and management of the project. Likewise, the Guinsiliban LGU shall assign a focal person to the Mt. Ilihan Eco-tourism Project/ Munting Calvaryo Forest Park and develop, rehabilitate and protect the whole area covered by the project and exercise direct control and supervision over it. Meanwhile, DENR 10 will comanage and develop the Cantaan CRMP, in coordination with the LGU’s of Camiguin and Guinsiliban, in close coordination with the people’s organization (PO’s). The project site covers a total area of 1,116.2821 hectares broken down as follows: offshore area, coral and sea grasses, 1,023.0469 hectares, foreshore area/salvage zone, 90.7352 has.,
and A &D Joint Venture Agreement (JVA), 2.50 has. Among the DENR’s tasks for the Cantaan CRMP are the following: Provide technical assistance in terms of mangrove protection, rehabilitation and development and will also be responsible for filing and prosecuting criminal charges in court for violation of environment and natural resources laws. Be responsible in the monitoring and evaluation of researches conducted by the academe, nongovernment organizations (NGO’s) and non-government agencies (NG’As) implemented on the site with the collaboration of MLGU and PLGU. The PLGU of Camiguin shall provide livelihood or any income generating activities to support the project implementation and will also ensure the continuity/sustainability of the existing project to the community. They are also to provide assistance in the protection against any illegal activities pertaining to ENR, Forestry and Fishery Laws, in coordination with
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Photo Credits:
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the concerned agency. For its part, the LGU of Guinsiliban shall capacitate and strengthen the organization through training, IEC, linkages with other agencies, they are also responsible in the establishment and implementation of livelihood projects beneficial to the members of the organization. The LGU was represented by the Provincial Government of Camiguin led by Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo with Guinsiliban Mayor Helenio N. Abecia. Witnessing the MOA signing were the Provincial Planning and Development Officer (PPDO) Felicisimo Gomes, Sr., and several members of the Guinsiliban Sangguniang Bayan (SB) and some of its Punong Barangays. The DENR was represented by Regional Executive Director Corazon
B. Galinato, together with Regional Technical Director Belen O. Daba of the Protected Areas, Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Service (PAWCZMS) and Regional Technical Director Danilo C. Cacanindin of the Ecosystem Research Development Service (ERDS). Also with them were Coastal Marine Management Division Chief Teodulo A. Manit, Political and Legal Liaison Officer Dolores Grace Chan and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Gaudioso B. Malaton. After the MOA signing a ceremonial tree planting was undertaken, were in 30 seedlings of endemic tree species of “kalingag (Cinnamomum mercadoi)” and “bayog.” The trees were planted at the foot of Mt. Ilihan, Butay, Guinsiliban. (DENR-10)
Series of intensity II and III quakes jolt Valencia City anew By Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy
MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Triggered by the recent earthquake tensions, the residents in Valencia City, once again panicked early morning of November 10 after they have been shaken by another quake at around 8:24 a.m. Such quake was registered at intensity II, following the powerful Intensity V tremor that occured Monday night, Nov. 7. Marcial Labininay, Director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) in Northern Mindanao, however, said the tremor was part of the seismic swarms or 24
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aftershocks. “Actually, a series of 56 quakes, ranging from intensity I to III rocked the area. But only four (4) of these quakes were felt on the following days: Nov. 7, Intensity III at 8:32 p.m., Nov. 8, Intensity I at 2:45 p.m. and Nov. 9, Intensity II at 12:32 a.m.,”
Labininay said. “The latest tremor with intensity II occurred at 8:24 a.m., today, Nov. 10, with its epicenter located 32 km., south of Malaybalay City,” he added. Although the quake epicenter center was in Malaybalay City, the neighboring city of Valencia was worst hit due to its soft and humid soil texture having vast ricefields and fishponds, the Phivolcs -10 Director explained. The quake, last Nov. 7, has left 31 people injured, 61 houses destroyed and 21 families homeless. Capt. Alejandro Larosa, Executive Director of the Valencia City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) said that based on the damage assessment and needs analysis conducted as of November 10, a total damage of P7.6 million has been reported to the Regional
DRRMC, through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), region 10. Assessing the scale of devastation in the city, Mayor Leandro Jose Catarata, who is a a civil engineer by profession, has proposed the relocation of the residents living over the fault lines to other safer locations, through the recommendations of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB).
Debate on Press Freedom highlights COPC’s 60th founding anniversary, Nov. 11 By: Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental – “Lantugi (debate) sa Press Freedom” will highlight the celebration of Cagayan de Oro Press Club’s (COPC), 60th Founding Anniversary, today, Nov. 11. Start at 3:00 p.m., the debate will be held at the Press Freedom Monument, Provincial Capitol, here, Atty. Santiago Goking, Jr., COPC President, said. He said the celebration will center on the theme “Balik-Lantaw, Pamalandong, Pasalamat ug Tubag sa
Hagit sa Panahon (Retrospection and Thanksgiving and Responses to the Challenges of Time).” The day will begin with a Media Walk-for-a-Cause at 5:00 a.m. from the Rodelsa Circle near the New Cagayan de Oro Bridge to the Misamis Friday, November 11, 2011
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Oriental Provincial Capitol. It will wind up at the Press Freedom Monument where a Thanksgiving Mass will be held at 6:00 a.m. officiated by Msgr. Elmer Abacahin, followed by a fellowship breakfast at 7:00 a.m. inside the COPC Boardroom. A Radio Tour at Magnum Radio,
Bombo Radyo and Radyo Agong, have also been scheduled at 11:00 a.m., Goking said. He said COPC members are also invited to the fellowship dinner at the Oriental Garden of Philtown Hotel, this city, at 7:00 p.m.
Camiguin posts 17.15% increase in tourist arrivals for the first half of the year By Jorie C. Valcorza
CAMIGUIN, Mambajao – A total of 183,162 local and foreign tourists were recorded to have visited the island, from January to June, this year. “This figure, was actually 26,816 tourists or 17.15 percent higher compared to 156,346 tourists during the same period, last year,” Candice Naomi L. Boromeo, Provincial Tourism Officer, said. Records at the Provincial Tourism Office (PTO), also, show that the most number of tourists visited the island during the 2nd quarter with 131,181, compared to the 1st quarter with only 49,981. Of this figure, domestic tourists registered at 145,460, followed by “Panaad” or traditional walk of penitence during the Holy Week, 33,215, foreign tourists, 4,264, “balikbayans” or Filipinos living abroad but are in the country for a vacation, 257. The PTO data also show that the most number of tourists visited Camiguin during the month of April Photo Credits: http://panukad.net
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with 60,222, followed by May, 42,515, and June, 30,444. During the 1st quarter, the month of March recorded the most number of tourists with 23,781, followed by January, 15,344 and lowest in February with 10,856, Meanwhile, Borromeo said Camiguin posted an increase of 15,404 visitors or 5.07 percent, last year, from the previous full year’s bulk of 319,168 in 2010.
It also recorded, in 2009, some 303,764 tourist arrivals, posting some 21,595 or 7.65 percent increase from the 2008 figure. She, however, noted that the figure covers only guests and visitors staying in cottages and hotels. The month of April continually posts the highest influx of visitors, as tourist and Christian devotees, alike, flock the island to observe or experience the 64-km ‘Panaad,’ she said. This was followed by October, as another tourist come on in the island, the ‘Lanzones Festival’ is celebrated every third week of the month. During this occasion, the island
comes alive in a weeklong festivity which showcases the province agricottage exhibits and food trade expo, indigenous sports and highlighted with the tableau of local culture portrayed though dances. Borromeo said the PTO, likewise, records bigger number of tourist arrivals during vacation times, specifically, in the months of May and December with the majority of the arrivals composed mostly of domestic tourists. “Foreign and ‘balikbayan’ tourist still post increases from January to June, this year, compared to last year,” she added.
US Embassy tells NOrMin folks “No Office on Veterans Day, Nov. 11” CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental – The U.S. Embassy will be closed on Friday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans’ Day, an American holiday. This advisory was made by the U.S. Embassy officials, so that the people of Northern Mindanao who wishes to transact business with them can make the necessary adjustments in their schedule. The US Embassy in Manila and its affiliated offices will not hold office, tomorrow, as Veterans Day is an annual United States holiday honoring military veterans. It is also celebrated as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day in other
parts of the world and falls on November 11, the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. Major hostilities of World War I formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of the year 1918, with the German signing of the Armistice. The Embassy and affiliated agencies will reopen to the public and resume services on Monday, November 14, 2011. (US Embassy) Friday, November 11, 2011
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DOST XI to launch ‘Juan Time’
J
by Mai Gevera Macapagat
ference with every satellite within its antenna’s field of view. The PST is available online at the DOST-PAGASA website (http://www.pagasa.dost. gov.ph). Sulidum bared that Juan Time could be the start for Filipinos to stop using personal reasons like hav A project of the Department ing a different time at home. of Science and Technology (DOST), She added that this could also Juan Time introduces a standard be the start for Filipinos to be timetime which should be followed by conscious and constantly check the Filipinos. PST as they go about their daily ac DOST XI assistant regional ditivities. rector Elsie Sulidum said it is about Government offices, too, are time that everyone should value highly encouraged to follow Juan time and follow the standard which Time especially in holding special acis the PST set by the DOST’s Philiptivities like meetings and for a. pine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Meanwhile, this DOST campaign Astronomical Services Administration is backed up by a pending law re(PAGASA). Mandated by Section 6 ferred to as House Bill 164 or “An Act of Batas Pambansa Blg. 8, PAGASA to set the PST in all official sources is the country’s official timekeeper throughout the country”. since 1978. The bill also provides funds for The PST is set via DOST-PAthe installation, operation and mainGASA’s timing system that consists tenance of synchronized time deof rubidium atomic clock, Global vices to be displayed in key public Positioning System receiver, time places and to declare the first week interval counter, distribution ampliof every year as “National Time Confier, and a computer. The system sciousness Week. (PIA/Mai Geveraautomatically calculates its time difMacapagat)
uan Time (Philippine Standard Time) or the synchronization of time pieces in the entire Philippines will be launched in Davao City on November 17 following the need to value timeliness and unity amongst Filipinos.
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Local leaders, residents hail Botika ng Barangay program TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte Village officials and folks in Davao del Norte were all praises to the Botika ng Barangay (BnB) program for making available cheaper basic over-the-counter medicines to residents, especially in remote communities. Brgy. Captain Moises Lura of Magsaysay in the municipality of Carmen thanked the government for implementing the program that aims to provide low-priced but quality medicines for the poor. Since drugs being sold in BnB outlets are far lower compared to branded ones sold in pharmacies at the town centers, Lura said the BnBs are indeed a big help to the majority of his constituents. “Dako jud kini ug ikatabang sa katawhan kay nasayod kita nga sagad kanila igo-igo lang ang panudlanan (The program is really a big help to the majority of our people who struggle to make both ends meet),” the village chief shared during the 1st Davao del Norte Botika ng Barangay Congress on October 9, 2011. According to him, the money that is saved from low-cost pills can be added to the budget for daily basic needs of the residents. Barangay Magsaysay’s botika was one of the only two BnBs in
the province that were adjudged as among the best performing BnBs in the Davao region last year. The other one is the BnB of Semong in Kapalong town. From an initial capital of P25,000 from the Provincial Government in 2009, Magsaysay’s BnB now has a savings of P28,000 in the bank. Lura attributed the support of the community to the project to the advocacy, campaign and patronage of the barangay officials to the program. He also thanked the PHO and the Department of Health for providing capability-building workshops, such as the seminar on basic accounting and bookkeeping, which truly helped the operators improve and sustain the operation of the BnBs.
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Residents of Aundanao, Penaplata District in the Island Garden City of Samal also greatly benefited from the program, as they no longer have to travel far to get affordable but high-quality medicines. BnB Operator Cristita Colong said residents of Aundanao, some 15 kilometers away from the poblacion, now save a considerable amount of money, time and effort with the establishment of their own botika. She revealed that residents in the barangay had a hard time buying medicines before, since they must have to shell out P50.00 for their motorcycle fare along rugged roads just to get to the town center. “Dakug tabang ang BnB kay gawas nga barato na, anaa lang jud sa tugkaran sa barangay (The BnB brought cheaper medicines right at our doorsteps),� she said. She said her community is forever grateful to Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario for handing over the sum of P25,000 as initial capital to start the botika in their village in 2009. Provincial Health Officer Dr. Agapito Hornido said the first BnB summit held at the Bulwagan ng Lalawigan aimed to assess the program
implementation, as well as, determine the issues and concerns of the respective botikas for appropriate action. The event also intended to foster goodwill and camaraderie among BnB operators and aids, who breathes life to the program. Davao del Norte is among the region’s top performers in implementing the program, with 185 botikas already established across the province. Dr. Hornido said the province intends to establish BnBs to the remaining 38 barangays next year, in order to make best use of the program in addressing the basic health needs of the people. In pursuing optimum health as a major component of his P.E.O.P.L.E. agenda, Gov. del Rosario assured to provide more funds for putting up BnBs in botika-less barangays. By implementing the program, he said the province is treading the right direction towards its vision of providing a better quality of life to the people. (PIO-DavNor/Noel Baguio)
Facts and Figures... 2.53%
Annual growth rate of Davao City in a 15-year period as measured by the Web-based research group City Mayors Foundation. Based on the data, Davao City is ranked as the 87th fastest-growing city in the world
50 kilometers 30
Road distance between Davao City and Digos City the capital of Davao del Sur Province.
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Globe telecom, media give early Christmas treats for street kids by Mai Gevera Macapagat
DAVAO CITY- Instead of receiving gifts, the tri-media in Davao rather opted to share gifts to 50 young girls from Tambayan Center for Children’s Rights. A regular sponsor for the annual media party, Globe Telecoms warmly welcomed the idea of Mindanao Daily Mirror writer Jon Joaquin to share an early Christmas party with some street children in the city. Inspired by the idea, Globe Telecoms officials granted Joaquin’s wish and decided to make it happen in an early Christmas party for the media and the young kids. Globe chose Tambayan as the beneficiaries for the Christmas party. Tambayan, helping and catering to the needs of almost 300 young girls is a hangout or a retreat place for adolescent girls on the streets of Davao City. It has embarked on child rights advocacy and capacity-building among girls aged 12 to 17 who have experienced difficult situations at home. Tambayan recognizes that an adolescent street girl’s situation reflects the context in which she finds herself in and that children are not passive recipients of experience but can actively contribute to their own development or influence their lives. Based on the analysis that chil-
dren are pushed to the streets by experiences of abuse and violence in their homes, Tambayan considers healing, in its many forms, the core in its organizing efforts. Facilitating healing can take the form of individual therapy, group processing, or simply access to space and/ or an understanding adult to talk to. Both the event sponsor and some partners in the media decided to hold the early Christmas party in time for the significant 11.11.11 or November 11, 2011. Dressed at their best, the young girls entered the well-decorated D’Leonor ballroom and patiently waited for the games, raffling of prizes, and a hearty luncheon. The short program that started at 11 in the morning was filled with exciting games both played by the media and the kids. The latter also presented some of their skills in singing and dancing. But the most-awaited part of the party is when the kids received gift packs from Globe and the media practitioners. They excitedly opened the gifts and got surprised seeing the exact item they wished for. Days before the party, the Tambayan coordinator asked them to list the kind of gift they wish to have this Christmas. Friday, November 11, 2011
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This is the first time that Davao media shared a Christmas party with streetkids. Aside from receiving gifts from the sponsor, the media practitioners were also given the chance to share with the happiness of these kids in need of love, attention, and financial help. (PIA-11/Mai Gevera-Macapagat)
Comval solon to aid construction of jail facility DAVAO CITY – Congresswoman Maria Carmen Z. Apsay of the 1st District of Compostela Valley Province pledge on Wednesday to fund the construction of a female jail facility in Brgy. New Visayas, Montevista.
The young representative of Compostela Valley also funded the construction of one cell inside the male facility alongside that of cells donated by her father, former Representative Manuel “Way Kurat” Zamora and Congressman Rommel Amatong of Compostela Valley’s 2nd In a surprise visit to the BuDistrict. reau of Jail Management in Davao “This is a very welcome news City on November 09, the lady solon for us,” says BJMP XI Regional Direcdeclared her commitment before an tor Jail Chief Superintendent Norvel audience of BJMP ranking jail officers M. Mingoa. and wardens. “The Provincial Government of The two-cell female jail facilCompostela Valley has always been ity, which is adjacent to the ongoing very supportive of our endeavors, construction of the new Montevista as well as the top Executives of all District Jail, will be totally separated of ComVals municipalities,” Mingoa from the male facility with its own stated. perimeter fence and gate. “It is heartwarming to note that It is expected to accommodate the province’s members of the House up to 50 female detainees upon full of Representatives, Congresswoman operation with enough space for liveApsay and Congressman Amatong lihood, visitation, and other activiheard our prayers and straight away ties. responded to our call,” he said. 32
Friday, November 11, 2011
Congresswoman Apsay admitted that the provincial government of Compostela is looking into ways of decongesting their provincial jail located inside the Provincial Capitol of Davao Del Norte in Barangay Mankilam, Tagum City. She said that helping develop the new District Jail and transferring some of the provincial inmates to the
new facility will decongest the provincial jail. Apsay stated that “although this is a short term solution to the provincial jail’s congestion problem, our long term plan is to relocate the remaining provincial inmates to a new provincial jail facility in the future.” (BJMP-11)
DTI-XI conducts entrepreneurship seminars DAVAO CITY- The Department of Trade and Industry–Davao City Field Office will be conducting two seminars for start-ups, wouldbe entrepreneurs and students of Davao City on November 17 (Thursday), 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at the DTI Conference Room, 2/F Mintrade Building, MonteverdeSales Streets, Davao City.
entrepreneurship. Seminar 2 will focus on the topic “Building Your Own Business”, scheduled from 1:00 – 5:00pm. This module aims to orient the participants on the requisite step-by-step procedures on setting up a small business from idea generation, registration, operation and expansion. Priority will be given to those who are engaged or planning to en Seminar 1 will focus on the gage in OTOP products or services, topic, “Developing an Entrepreneurnamely: processing/manufacturing ial Mindset” from 8:30 am to 12:00 of coconut, durian, banana, fruits nn. It aims to harness the spirit and vegetables, meat, wood-based and mindset of being entrepreneurial products, hand-painted/woven novbecause without the right mindset it elty items, floriculture, and ICT. would be very difficult to succeed. The seminar is free, however, Interesting concepts about enslots are limited. Interested partrepreneurial motivation, principles ticipants are encouraged to make and practices of successful entreearly reservations at 224-0511 local preneurs will give the participants a 420 and look for Ivy or Lilia or email perspective into the mindset of enat:dcfo.tmsmed@gmail.com. (DTItrepreneurs. 11) It teaches them how to break free from the employee mindset to be able to see a path of a career in Friday, November 11, 2011
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Butuan’s ‘Clean Ground, Zero Waste’ program in full swing by Jennifer P. Gaitano
T
oday is the beginning of change for all Butuanons,” said Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. during the press conference held today during the full implementation of “Clean Ground, Zero Waste” program.
www.piacaraga.blogspot.com
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http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-Caraga-Updates/165374590187484
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piacaraga@gmail.com pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph
Mayor Amante said he hoped that Butuanons will learn how to convert wastes into money, as well as converting wastes into organic fertilizers. Amante further said that the city government will be travelling to Japan to discuss 11 projects, as per invitation of Toyo University in Tokyo, Japan. Among the 11 projects to be pre
sented by Mayor Amante to the Japanese government include the improvement of drainage system in the city, airport and seaport facilities, Agriculture and rice production, public market, water system, and upgrading of Butuan Medical Center. Meanwhile, Amante stressed that today (Nov. 11) is the end of voting for the Puerto Princ-
esa Underground River (PPUR), the official nominee of the Philippines to the New 7 Wonders of Nature. He asked for the full support of all Butuanons in this endeavor. The city government is also optimistic that with this Public-PrivatePartnership with the Toyo University, Butuanons’ dream of progress and development will become a reality.
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PNP and military officials say Agusan del Sur is generally peaceful by David M. Suyao
AGUSAN DEL SUR-- The province of Agusan del Sur is generally peaceful despite of the continuous threat from the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, and the National Democratic Front (CNN). This was the third quarter assessment by the Philippine National Police during the Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting recently. During the presentation of P/Supt. Arnold Pascual of the Provincial Police Office, he said municipalities with high crime rates are those 36
belonging to progressive category. However, Crime Solution Efficiency (CSE) is also accelerated through the coordination and cooperation of all sectors of society. P/Supt. Pascual also reported that the municipality of Prosperidad posted the highest crime incidence with 26 cases; followed by Ba-
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yugan City with 17 cases, San Francisco with 12 cases, Sibagat and Trento with 10 cases each. “The most prevalent crimes for the period are physical injuries recorded with 24 cases followed by murder with 23 cases, robbery with 13 cases then theft with 12 cases and homicide
with 6 cases. Cattle rustling is 0 and rape is 0,” P/Supt. Pascual said. Among the operational accomplishments presented by P/Supt. Pascual, the Trento attack by the CNN was the most significant, where a lady chief of police named P/Insp. Charity Galvez stood firm, leading her men, defending their position. On insurgency, the 402nd Infantry Brigade reported five attacks, abduction, sniping and ambushes done by the
CNN towards the military, PNP and civilian armed auxiliary (CAA) on earlier part of the third quarter. The military also reported five encounters they experienced during the same period, where numerous casualties were inflected to the enemies. “Our joint efforts to maintain peace and development in the countryside had neutralized the violent and extortion activities of the CNN. And with this, we recognize the importance of
cooperation and support of all stakeholders in our campaign in line with the president’s security agenda in order to ensure a sustainable peace and security in the Province of Agusan del Sur,” Col. Rodrigo Diapana, former 402nd Brigade commander said. According to Col. Diapana the military favors the conduct of pulong-pulong and medical outreach in far flung communities over armed confrontation.
ANHS stude wins BCWD oratorical contest
BUTUAN CITY-- Agusan National High School re-establishes its superiority among other schools after being declared the champion in this year’s Butuan City Water District (BCWD) Oratorical Contest held recently in one of the local convention centers here. Friday, November 11, 2011
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The event marks BCWD’s 24th year anniversary with the theme: “Water Conservation: Preparing Today for a Better Tomorrow.” A fourth year high school student of Agusan National High School, Beryl Andrea P. Delicana, emerged on top as she grabbed the most coveted title of being the champion for this year’s Local Oratorical Contest besting 17 other contestants. Coming in close second was Kristine Josephine D. Busa, a student of Timber City Academy. Third prize was awarded to Lester Jan A. Cabaron of Angelicum Montessori School. Two consolation prize winners were: Iara G. Panis of Anticala National High School and
William Christian P. Dela Cruz of St. Joseph Institute of Technology. Ms. Delicana received a cash prize of 3,500.00, a gold medal and a Certificate of Commendation for her school, Ms. Busa received P 2,500.00, a silver medal and a Certificate of Commendation, Mr. Cabaron also got P 2,000.00, a bronze medal and a Certificate of Commendation while Ms. Panis and Mr. Dela Cruz each received P1,000.00 and a medal. Nobody however went home empty handed as non-winners were each given a token prize of P 500.00. All the participants, coaches and schools on the other hand were accorded with a Certificate of Participation duly signed by the
local contests committee of the Butuan City Water District. Judges for this year’s competition are experts in the field of literary arts which include Ms. Tiara Julia CM. Santos, Local Legislative Staff of the City Council of Cabadbaran; Rev. Fr. Dandy E. Marababol, Assistant Parish Priest of Sto. Niño Parish in Brgy. Libertad; and Dr. Marietta E. Lumawag, OWWA Regional Director. The local oratorical contest is another project of the BCWD, which through the years has been institutionalized and has become one of the most awaited events by many of the schools in the city. (Ramil S. Barquin)
1st Kahimunan & Panagdapog 2011 opens today in Marihatag by Nida Grace B. Tranquilan SURIGAO DEL SUR -– The first Kahimunan for Manobo and Panagdapog for Mandaya opened today in Marihatag, this province.
In a statement, legitimate members and leaders of the dif38
ferent indigenous cultural communities in District II of Surigao del Sur
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have initiated an alliance to assist the government in identifying, sort-
ing, consolidating, analyzing, recommending and in possibly, addressing the pressing issues and concerns that the tribes are facing now. A c c o r d i n g l y, the alliance’s efforts in discussing issues and concerns at the grassroots level have gained overwhelming support from indigenous
peoples (IPs), as well as those of non-IPs, whose culture of honesty supports the call of President Benigno Aquino “Walang mahirap kung walang corrupt (There’s no poverty if there’s no corruption).” Anchored on the theme “Unity, a key towards achieving cultural integrity,” dif-
ferent Indigenous Cultural Communities coming from four provinces of Surigao del Sur, Agusan Del Sur, Compostela Valley, and Davao Oriental are expected to participate. The tribal assembly serves as a venue for them to express their sentiments and issues concerned that Indigenous Peoples’
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is facing now. Meanwhile, Cong. Teodoro B. Baguilat Jr. of Ifugao will share his message, while Col. Henry Robin-
son, Commanding Officer of the 29IB will deliver his keynote speech. Further, Surigao del Sur Gov. Johnny Pimen-
tel is set to present the IP Development Agenda, where open forum will follow, as part of the first day activities.
Pangulong Aquino, siniguro ang kalayaan sa pamamahayag by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton
BUTUAN CITY - Tiniyak ni Pangulong Benigno Aquino III na hindi lilimitahan ng kaniyang administrasyon ang kalayaan ng mga mamahayag sa kanilang tungkulin bilang isa sa tagapang-alaga ng demokrasya sa Pilipinas.
Sinabi ng Pangulo kahapon isang pagtitpon ng Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) kahapon sa Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga na “sa tuwid na daan walang maglalagay ng tali sa inyong leeg upang maging sunud-sunuran.” Dagdag ng Pangulo na “manana40
tiling tagapagbantay ng demokrasya ang media ng bansa at kabalikat ninyo ang inyong administrasyon sa pagpapanatli ng pinakamataas ng propesyunalismo, integridad at kredibilidad sa inyong larangan.” Pinuri ng Pangulo ang patuloy na pagsasagawa ng KBP sa pagbibigay
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sa publiko ng impormasyon mula sa madilim na kapanahunan ng Martial law sa bansa hanggang ngayon. Samantala, kinilala ng Pangulo na hindi perpekto ang mga mamahayag sa paglalabas ng balita dahil ang ilan sa mga ito ay nakasisira sa mabuting reputasyon ng ilang mga
propesyonal. Ibinunyag ng Pangulo na dapat itugma ng mga mamahayag ang mga inaasahan ng mga tao. At pinuna din niya na dapat panatilihin ng mga mamahayag ang kanilang integridad katulad sa ekspektasyon ng mga tao sa mga piniling opisyal. Ayon kay Pangulong Aquino, “ang mga batayang prinsipyo ng sinumpaan naming
mandato—katapatan, paghahayag ng katotohanan, malasakit sa ating kababayan, lahat ng ito ay sumasalamin din sa tungkulin ng media.” “Samakatuwid kapwa tayo may pananagutan sa mamamayan, kapwa tayo may utang na loob sa taumbayan,” dagdag ni Aquino. Itinapos ng Pangulo ang kanyang mensahe sa paghimok sa mga mamamahayag na
ipakita sa mundo ang mga pagbabago at mga reporma na naganap sa bansa na maaring makapagbigay ng panibagong tiwala ng mga tao sa mas mabuting hinaharap. “Sa lakas ng nagkakaisang bayan, tuluy-tuloy na ang ating pagbangon at sa tulong ng KBP tunay ngang napipinto na ang katuparan ng ating mga pangarap,” sabi ng Pangulo.
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Best practices presentation on 4Ps Sarangani Governor Migs Dominguez makes a presentation on the best practices in the implementation of 4P’s (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) in his province Thursday, November 10, at Pearlmont Inn during the threeday national consultation with provincial governors. Governor Dominguez was also tasked to share the best practices in Mindanao while Governor David Suarez of Quezon and Governor Victor Tangco of Capiz shared that of Luzon and the Visayas, respectively. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
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DOH 12 prioritizes contact tracing of HIVAIDS victims KORONADAL CITY -More than the usual prevention and control measures, the Department of Health has embarked into contact tracing which is the method of finding and counselling the sexual partners of a person who has been diagnosed with HIV-AIDS or other sexually transmitted disease. This was disclosed by Dr. Ali Tumama, the focal person on HIVAIDS of DOH-Center for Health Development, region 12 who emphasized the importance of monitoring the whereabouts of the victims and their partners for counselling as preventive measure in the spread of the disease. In an interview over “Kalinga Kutawato,� a radio program sponsored by the Philippine Information Agency, Department of Health and other memberagencies under the Regional Disaster Risk
Reduction Management Council, region XII (RDRRMC XII) and aired over DXOM-Koronadal City, DXMS-Cotabato City and DXND-Kidapawan City, Tumama revealed that region XII has a total of 45 HIVAIDS victims of which 25 are from General Santos City while the others are from North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Cotabato City and Tacurong City. Dr. Tumama said while the stigma of the disease is still very strong, the DOH envisions that this will be diminished in due time
to gain cooperation from the victims themselves. He explained the provisions of Republic Act No. 8504 or the act promulgating policies and prescribing measures for the prevention and control of HIVAIDS which institutes a nationwide HIV-AIDS information and educational program. The law also establishes a comprehensive HIV-AIDS monitoring system,and strengthening the Philippine National Aids Council. Tumama underscored the significance
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of HIV/AIDS education in schools, in the workplace, in the communities, among Filipinos going abroad, among tourists and transients. He mentioned safeguard provisions under the law which includes that no laboratory or institution shall accept a donation of tissue or organ unless a sample
from the donor has been tested negative for HIV. Likewise, he pointed out that the DOH in coordination with concerned professional organizations and hospital associations, shall issue guidelines against HIV transmission during surgical, dental, embalming, tatooing, or
similar procedures. There is no compulsory HIV testing, as provided under the law, but the government encourages voluntary testing for individuals with a high risk for contracting HIV, Dr. Tumama concluded. (OTSudaria/PIA)
Price of Noche Buena products up by 6 to 21 percent – DTI S. Cotabato By Dani Doguiles KORONADAL CITY, -- It’s still 44 days to Christmas but prices of products used in preparation of Noche Buena are already up, according to an official of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – South Cotabato. Elbert Capicio, senior trade and industry specialist of DTISouth Cotabato, said, in their recent monitoring which concentrated on “Noche Buena” product, they monitored 6 percent up to 21 percent price increases as compared to the prices last year. “An 850-gram Queso de Bola, which used 44
to be priced at P250, now costs P270,” he said. “Prices of paghetti, macaroni, cheese, tomato sauce have also increased.”
Friday, November 11, 2011
A brand of salad macaroni , which used to sell at P85 to 95 per kilo, can now be bought at P113.50 while a brand of cheese sold last year at P36.75 now sells at P39.00. Capecio, however, pointed out that pices of several fruit that are popular in Christmas such as oranges and pears, have gone slightly down.
Asked whether these prices will be sustained until December, Capecio replied, adjustment of prices will be dependent on the availability of supply. “However, as observed, prices gradually go up until Christmas and New Year,” Capecio pointed out. This he explained is due to the overwhelming demand of such
products brought about by the Filipino tradition to prepare a special meal in time of these special occasions. Capecio added based on their monitoring there is enough supply of these products and expects the supply could be sustained to supply the local needs for the celebration. (PIA 12)
Police recruits ng PNP ARMM pormal ng sasabak sa training KORONADAL CITY – Aabot sa 196 na mga aplikante ang pormal ng tinanggap ng Philippine National Police (PNP) sa Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) upang maging bahagi ng puwersa ng kapulisan sa rehiyon.
Ang mga recruits, ayon kay PNPARMM Chief Supt. Bienvenido Latag ito ay nanumpa sa kanya at kaagad na isasailalim sa anim na buwang Public Safety Basic Recruit Course na gagawin sa ARMM Training School. Sa mahigit 547
na mga aplikante, 196 lamang umano ang bubuo sa Phase 2 Attrition Program CY2011, ayon kay Latag. Ang mga ito ay pumasa sa serye ng mga pagsusulit gaya ng Psychiatric/ Psychological Examination, Physical/ Medical/Dental Ex-
amination, Physical Agility Test, Final Committee Interview at Drug Testing. Ang mga serye ng examination at screening, ayon kay Latag ay naging daan sa pagseguro na ang mga recruits ay kuwalipikado at mga nasa maayos na
Friday, November 11, 2011
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pangangatawan at kaisipan. Ito umano ay upang maseguro rin na magiging mga responsableng tagapagpatupad ng batas ang mga ito sa pagtatapos ng kanilang pagsasanay. Kasama ng mga police recruits ang mga malalapit na miyembro ng kanilang pamilya sa kanilang panunumpa kay ARMM-PNP director Latag. (ac agad/PIA12)
Kabacan, N. Cotabato patuloy ang buhay sa kabila ng pambobomba KORONADAL CITY – Balik sa normal ang pamumuhay sa bayan ng Kabacan, North Cotabato sa matapos itong niyanig nga pagsabog ng isang improvised explosive device (IED) at pagkarekober ng apat na iba pang EID noong Martes at Miyerkules.
Ayon kay P/Supt Joseph Semillano, hepe ng Kaba-
can PNP, matapos nilang naidekalarang “all accounted for� na ang mga bomba, 46
Friday, November 11, 2011
tuluy-tuloy na rin ang aktibidades ng mga negosyante at iba pang mga gawain sa naturang bayan, pati na ang mga gawain ng mga magaaral sa pinakamalaking state university sa Central Mindanao, ang University of Southern Mindanao na nasa naturang bayan. Gayunman, aminado ang transport sector ng Kabacan na naapektuhan ng pagsabog ang kanilang negosyo. Ayon sa isang dispatcher ng pampasaherong van sa Kabacan Overland Terminal Complex, bumaba ng halos 40 porsiyento ang bilang ng kanilang pasahero nitong mga nakaraang araw. Sa ngayon, hinigpitan na ng pamunuan ng naturang terminal ang pag-iinspeksyon ng mga bag, karton, at iba pang kagamitang ipinapasok sa terminal. Ang mga ito kasi ang kalimitang pinaglalagyan ng mga itinatanim na bomba sa mga pampublikong lugar. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12/ RDBenez/DXVL-Radyo ng Bayan)
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Friday, November 11, 2011