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
South Cotabato
bamboo industry
Photo Credits:world-trades.com,disney-homes-vacations.com beiz.jp,furniturehomedesign.com
Cover Story :
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Vol. 1, No. 92
South Cotabato eyes development of bamboo industry by Dani Doguiles
NATI O NAL
contents
CENTRAL Mindanao
CARAGA Region
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9 11 14 16
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Aquino asks government of Australia to consider PHL a strategic partner Aquino visits Pearl Harbor
Aquino and 20 member economies of APEC pledge commitment in advancing green growth objectives Mas masiglang CNEX, inaasahan
WESTERN Mindanao
30 30 32 33
Care giving graduates take national competency exam at PPTS 1st WESCOM Badminton Cup to promote healthy lifestyle BIR urges professionals to be tax law compliant
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19 20 21 22 23
22nd ARMM foundation anniversary celebration kicks off
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28 29
Skills training-workshop on HIV, AIDS set in Butuan
Whirlwind hits Brgy. Victoria in Tago, Surigao del Sur Gordon ignites Filipinos’ sense of volunteerism Prov’l jail needs more guards, says warden
DAR Surigao Norte to turn-over potable water supply system in Tubod
Malaria in Region 12 down by 82%
DOH muling nagpaalala hinggil sa sakit na malaria Jobs fair ipatutupad sa Tulunan at Midsayap, N. Cotabato
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SP pinuri ang PNP-S. Cotabato director
NORTHERN Mindanao
35 36 37 39 40
NOVEMBER 14, 2011
SOUTHERN Mindanao
Illegal constructions inide private bldgs. top security issues in Lanao Sur
Phil. Army, LTO step-up campaign against illegal motorists in Marawi City BIR conducts on-the-spot verifications on withholding tax compliance FCAP calls for strict enforcement of cigarette ad ban
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Smile mission helps 12 kids in Camiguin
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41 42 43
Davao likely to meet 6 out of 8 Millenium Devt. Goals Giant holiday tree lighting signals start of Tagum’s festive Christmas season Aflatoun academy to rise in Tagum City
Cover Story
South Cotabato eyes development of bamboo industry by Dani Doguiles
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nother industry -- that of bamboo and engineered bamboo -- is taking shape in South Cotabato with the provincial government taking the lead role.
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Monday, November 14, 2011
Besides massive rehabilitation in riparian zones using bamboo as alternative to fruitbearing and hardwood trees, South Cotabato provincial government and its partners are tapping into the potential of bamboo as a major industry. Mary Jane Manlisis, senior environment specialist of the Provincial Environment recently announced that the South Cotabato Bamboo Industry Development Council (SCBIDC), being chaired by Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., will be holding a sub-regional bamboo conference at EMR Center in Koronadal City on November 23 and 24. “The sub-regional bamboo conference will look into the viability, potentials, and possible investments in the developing industry of bamboo,” Gov. Pingoy said in a communication sent to target participants from South Cotabato and nearby provinces of Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, ans Sarangani and General Santos City. Industry experts including Philippine Bamboo Foundation President Edgardo Manda will be here to present the
bamboo industry value chain through which the neighboring provinces can be tapped, business potentials , and technologies for nursery and plantation management. Among the highlights of the conference is planting of at least 3,500 bamboo seedlings and launching of a community bamboo nursery in Barangay Veterans, Surallah town. The conference’s theme is “The Wood of the Future is a Grass: Bamboo.” Bamboo Hub To further boost local bamboo industry, the provincial government is considering the
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establishment of a bamboo hub in the province. Initially, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) , through the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) allocated P9.5 million for the purchase of tools and equipment for the establishment of bamboo nodes in the province. Bamboo nodes, Manlisis explained , are facilities where raw bamboo will be cut, sliced, treated and dried. From these nodes processed bamboos will be sent to the bamboo hub, where the final processing into finished products such as bamboo tiles and planks will be undertaken. “Gov. Pingoy has committed to allocate funds for the establishment of a bamboo 6
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hub that will ensure that products from nodes are processed, ” Manlisis said. In its October 17 meeting, the SCBIDC finalized a proposal which lays down two options on the processes that the local bamboo hub should include. In the first option, which needs less than P2 million funding, South Cotabato will establish a hub that will produce engineered planks. The second option has a budget of less than P4 million; but with this fund the hub will be able to produce finished products such as school desk, Manlisis explained. She said the proposal is now with Gov. Pingoy. “Initially, the hub will be
located inside the Protech Cen- monizing all bamboo related ter in Koronadal City.� programs, projects, and other activities through convergence Bamboo Development Council of all related projects; acting as advisory group assisting the Productivity and Technology (Protech) Center in the conduct of annual Kawayan Festival; implementing activities that promote bamboo industry in the province; and sourcing out resources that support bamboo industry. Both the conference and the plan to put up a bamboo hub in South Cotabato are a result of the establishment of the South Cotabato Bamboo Industry Development Council (SCBIDC) pursuant to Executive Order No. 5, signed by Gov. Pingoy on February 15 this year. The same EO also institutionalized South Cotabato’s Kawayan Festival, which showcases bamboo arts and crafts. The council which includes a multi-sectoral representation is responsible for formulating the Provincial Bamboo Industry Development Plan; har-
Bamboo Rehabilitation With the increasing demand for bamboo and its products, South Cotabato is embarking on a massive bamboo rehabilitation. Provincial Environment Officer Engr. Mama Samaon said, this year until
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early next year, they are targeting planting of bamboos at least 90 hectares along tributaries of Allah River, Banga River, and Sapali River. They are also encouraging farmers as alternative to hardwood and fruit-bearing trees because bamboos grow five times faster than most trees. Samaon said even with
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only bamboo poles farmers are assured of reliable income in addition to income from the primary farm produce. Recently, Nakayama Industries based in Digos, Davao del Sur, came to South Cotabato to enter into contract for a regular supply of 7,000 bamboo poles per month.
Aquino asks government of Australia to consider PHL a strategic partner
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n an effort to further cement the relationship between the two countries, President Benigno S. Aquino has asked the government of Australia to be a “strategic partner� of the Philippines.
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“Well, meron tayong dalawang strategic partners, namely America and Japan, and the strategic partnership talks about shared values, shared aspirations, shared problems, and we offer Australia to consider getting into a strategic partnership with us also,” the President said. The Chief Executive said he echoed the invitation for the two countries to be strategic partners to Australian Prime Minister Julia Eileen Gillard during their bilateral meeting at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel at the sidelines of the 19th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting here. President Aquino noted that the invitation is a major step in deepening and strengthen10
ing the relationship between the Philippines and Australia adding that the Philippines only considers two countries, Japan and the United States as it’s strategic partners at present. During a Coffee with the Philippine Media delegation at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel, the President said that the elevation of the status of Australia as strategic partner of the Philippines “is in recognition of Australia’s invaluable assistance to the country in numerous areas.” “It’s the next logical step in our relationship,” he stressed. In this connection, the President cited the huge grants that the Philippines received from Australia, which, he said, are second only to the millennium challenge account granted by the United States. According to the
Monday, November 14, 2011
President, he thanked Prime Minister Gillard for Australia’s support in funding the government’s Coast Watch project including various projects of the Department of Education and the elevation mapping study for Metro Manila as part the administration’s disaster risk reduction program. “After everything has been said and done, logical na alukin natin na pumasok sa isang strategic partnership ang Australia with us,” he said. As to the Australian Prime Minister’s invitation for him to visit Australia next year, President Aquino said that preparations are already underway for the visit which, he stressed could probably be pushed through by the middle of next year. (RSDA)
Aquino visits Pearl Harbor
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III took time out from his busy schedule to visit Pearl Harbor here.
The Chief Executive, accompanied by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Trade and industry Secretary Gregory Domingo,
and Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda, arrived at the Pearl Harbor on Saturday at 9 am (Honolulu time). Shortly after his arrival in the area, the President
boarded a US navy craft and proceeded to the USS Arizona Memorial where he was briefed by Admiral Patrick Walsh commander in chief of the U.S Pacific Fleet on the fea-
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tures of the American facility. Upon reaching the USS Arizona Memorial, President Aquino offered a wreath in honor of the 1,177 sailors and marines who were killed on board the battleship USS Arizona when it was sunk during the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Pearl Harbor, which is known to Hawaiians as Pu’uloa, is a lagoon harbor on the island of O’ahu, Hawaii, west of Honolulu. Much of the 12
harbor and surrounding lands is a United States navy deep-water naval base. It is likewise the headquarters of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor brought the
Monday, November 14, 2011
U.S. into World War II While on his way to the USS Arizona Memorial, the President on board the U.S. navy vessel also passed by the memorials of the USS Oklaho-
ma and Utah, two other warships that sunk alongside the battleship USS Arizona. The U.S. Oklahoma Memorial is a dedicated to the 429 brave men who lost their lives
aboard the USS Oklahoma, sunk during the Pearl Harbor attack. On the other hand, the USS Utah is also known as the Forgotten Memorial due to its secluded location. The
U.S. navy has not forgotten the Utah. An American flag is raised daily at the memorial. The hull of the USS Utah still remains a short distance from shore with 54 members of her crew entombed inside including Peter Tomich who was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroic deeds. The President, who is in Honolulu to attend the 19th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting, visited Pearl Harbor for about an hour. (RSDA)
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Aquino and 20 member economies of APEC pledge commitment in advancing green growth objectives
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino and the 20 other member economies of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) pledged their commitment by taking concrete steps to advance their shared green growth objectives. “We can and must address both the region’s economic and environmental challenges by speeding the transition toward a global lowcarbon economy in a way that enhances energy security and
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creates new sources of economic growth and employment,” the 21 APEC leaders said in the APEC Declaration issued on Sunday (Monday in Manila) at the conclusion of the 2011 APEC Leaders’ Meet-
Monday, November 14, 2011
ing at the JW Marriott Hotel here. The APEC leaders noted that they have advanced these objectives significantly this year saying that in 2012, economies will work to develop an APEC list of envi-
ronmental goods that directly and positively contribute to green growth and sustainable development objectives, “on which we are resolved to reduce by the end of 2015 our applied tariff rates to 5 percent or less, taking into account economies’ economic circumstances, without prejudice to APEC economies’ positions in the World Trade Organization (WTO).” They also said that economies will also eliminate nontariff barriers, including local content requirements that distort environmental goods and services trade. “Taking these concrete actions will help our businesses and citizens access important environmental technologies at lower costs, which in turn will facilitate
their use, contributing significantly to APEC’s sustainable development goals,” the APEC leaders said. To promote their green growth goals, the 21 APEC leaders agreed to take the following steps: -Rationalize and phase out inefficient fossil-subsidie that encourage wasteful consumption, while recognizing the importance of providing those in need with essential energy services, and set up a voluntary reporting mechanism on progress, which APEC member economies will review annually; -- Aspire to reduce APEC’s aggregate energy intensity by 45 percent by 2035; -- Promote energy efficiency by tak-
ing specific steps related to transport, buildings, power grids, jobs, knowledge sharing, and education in support of energy-smart low-carbon communities; -Incorporate low-emissions development strategies into their economic growth plans and leverage APEC to push forward this agenda, including through the Low-Carbon Model Town and other projects; and -- Work to implement appropriate measures to prohibit trade in illegally harvested forest production and undertake additional activities in APEC to combat illegal logging and assorted trade. (RSDA)
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Mas masiglang CNEX, inaasahan Ni Domingo B. Natividad V
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maasa si Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Chief, Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr na lalo pang sisigla ang Communication and News Exchange (CNEX) forum, matapos nitong batiin ang mga tagapagtaguyod sa kauna-unahang taong anibersaryo nito noong Biyernes, 11/11/11 – araw na masuwerte ayon sa paniwala ng marami.
Sa panayam ni Coloma sa PIA-NCR, inihayag nito ang galak para sa CNEX na tinawag niyang “credible channel of communication with sustained patronage of media people.” Aniya,
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“umaasa ako na sa darating pang mga panahon ay lalo pa itong sisigla… lalo pa itong maging epektibong vehikulo para malaman ng ating kababayan ang katotohan sa mga mahahala-
Monday, November 14, 2011
gang isyu na kinakaharap nating lahat.” Bago matapos ang pagsasamhimpapawid ng CNEX noong biyernes, pinangunahan ni Coloma ang pag-awit ng “Happy Birthday” para sa
CNEX, gayundin ang sabayang pag-ihip ng cake candle nito. Bilang tugon, sinabi Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director-General, Atty. Jose A. Fabia, lead convenor at tumatayong program host, na may naka-linya ng mga hakbangin ang PIA upang lalo pang mapasigla ang CNEX sa pangalawang taon nito sa ere. Kasama rito, aniya, ang pagpapalakas ng research unit ng PIA. Kuwento niya, marami kasing natatanggap ang PIA sa pamamagitan ng research division at Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) nito na feedback mula sa mga mamamayan tungkol sa programa at polisiya ng pamahalaan, na puwedeng maiparating sa mga heads of agencies at department secretaries. Matapos maiparating sa mga kinauukulan, “iyong mga (department) secretaries ay
maaring mag-report sa taumbayan ng kanilang mga ginagawa, sa pamamagitan ng CNEX, para matugunan ang kanilang mga idinadaing,” sabin niya. Nais rin ni Fabia na mapahaba ang oras sa ere ng CNEX upang mabigyan ng sapat na panahon ang mga opisyales na matalakay at masagot ang mahahalagang talakayin. “Siguro, gawing isang oras at kalahati ang CNEX ,” sabi niya. Kasabay ng pagpapahaba ng oras, ilulunsad rin ng PIA ang pagkakaroon ng provincial at regional live points ng CNEX – sa pamamagitan ng
phone-in questions – para mabigyan din ng pagkakataon ang ibang mamamayan sa ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas. Aniya, “dapat maging regular feature ito (ng CNEX) para bigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga provincial questions na masagot (ng pamahalaan).” Kasama rin sa nais magawa ng PIA sa CNEX ang paghihikayat sa mga government officials na gawing itong pangunahing daluyan ng importanteng impormasyon at balita tungkol sa gobyerno. Paliwanag niya, kapag nagawa ito, maiiwasan ng pamahalaan ang pagbibigay ng pabor, gaya
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ng pagbibigay ng interview sa mangilanngilang media outfit lang. “Ang CNEX kasi ay isang transparency tool” kung saan “naipapakita niya na ang Aquino government ay bukas para pakinggan at tingnan ang mga isyu… para mapaganda ang pamamalakad sa pamahalaan,” sabi niya. Inaasahan rin ng pamunuan ng PIA, na sa isinasagawang pagpapasigla ng government media stations gaya ng PTV4 at Philippine Broadcasting Services (PBS) ay makakatulong din ito sa pagpapaganda ng lawak o audience reach ng programa. Sa ngayon kasi, nasa Kongreso na ang panukalang isaayos ang charter ng PTV4, samantalang ang PBS-Radyo ng Bayan naman ay dumadaan ngayon sa isang rationalization program. Sa isang taon matagumpay na pag18
sasamhimpapawid ng CNEX, pinasalamatan naman ni Fabia ang mga media partners nito sa pribadong sektor. “We are happy and grateful to them. They have been our partners, who are religiously attending our press conferences,” sabi niya. Nagpasalamat din siya sa suporta ng private media sa programa, sa pamamagitan ng pagere ng mga CNEX stories sa kani-kanilang pagbabalita sa hapon, gabi, at umaga. Masaya rin niyang binati ng may pasasalamat sa mga tao ng Research Division at PMU na walang sawang nagmo-monitor ng issues at concerns na kailangan bigyan ng kasagutan. Gayundin, ang suporta ng government stations PBS-Radyo ng Bayan, RPN9, IBC13, at Philippine News Agency (PNA) na kumu-cover ng CNEX. “We owe them a lot for the dedication and hard
Monday, November 14, 2011
work that they do,” sabi niya. Binigyan diin naman ng PIA head ang malaking tulong ng PTV4 para maisa-publiko ang CNEX. Liban kasi sa pagbo-broadcast ng ‘live’, ang programa ay naipapalabas ng makailang beses sa loob ng isang linggo. Ang CNEX ay isang lingguhang press briefing program na inorganisa ng PCOO at ipinatutupad ng PIA sa suporta ng PTV4, RPN9, IBC13, PBS, at PNA. Ito ay may naisin na magkaroon ang mga mamamayan ng sapat na kaalaman tungkol sa mga programa ng pamahalaan; na mabigyan ng “access” ang publiko sa ganitong mga impormasyon; at mapanatili ang matatag na relasyon at tulungan ng mga ahensiya at departamento ng pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng CNEX. (PIA-NCR/ RJB/ DBNV)
22nd ARMM foundation anniversary celebration kicks off By Perlita B. Changco COTABATO CITY - A weeklong celebration for the 22nd foundation anniversary of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) commenced today November 14 with a motorcade of officials and employees followed by an opening program at the Office of the Regional Governor (ORG) canopy.
In his message ARMM Executive Secretary Naguib Sinarimbo boasted of the present leadership firmly standing by with the constituents of the autonomous region since the start of
its reign in late 2009. Sinarimbo said, with the almost two years stint of the present ARMM leadership implementation of programs and projects and delivery of basic services relatively im-
proved. He cited the positive results of the recent SWS survey on the performance of the ARMM comiissioned by the United States Agency for International Development
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(USAID) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Sinarimbo said, based on survey results 63% of ARMM residents expressed satisfaction with the performance of the present leadership of the regional government adding that this
is a welcome development. He acknowledged the support and cooperation of all employees in the regional government and the media in the satisfactory performance obtained during the reign of the present leadership. With the theme
“Competitive-edge through Transparency and Governance” some of the activities to take place from Nov. 14-19, 2011 include sports competition, fora/symposium, musicale, cultural presentation and outreach program among others. (pbchangco/ PIA Cotabato City)
Malaria in Region 12 down by 82% By Dani Doguiles KORONADAL CITY -- Malaria cases in the Soccsksargen Region or Region 12 is down by 82 percent, a report from the Department of Health showed. Elvie Dominicata, are from the province Soccsksargen’s clusof Sultan Kudarat,” ter head for Global she said. Fund to Fight Malaria, Dominicata cited said from January to October this year, Soccsksargen Region had only 124 malaria cases as compared to 694 cases in the entire 2010. She added there may be additional cases in November and December “but number will be minimal.” “Of the 124 cases this year, 64 of these 20
Monday, November 14, 2011
their massive information and education campaign as well as their distribution of in-
secticide-treated mosquito nets as primary reason in the control of the number of malaria cases. She said in line with their celebration of November as Malaria Awareness Month, they will step up their activities to reach out and educate people in the region about malaria and how to control the disease. Their message, she added , focuses on 4 Ms, which includes: Magkulambo (Use of mosquito nets), Magpaeksamin ng dugo ( Undergo blood test, especially when experiencing fever, chills,
and sweating); Magpatubog ng mosquito net (Insecticide treatment of mosquito nets); and Magpagamot (Complete treatment of malaria). According to the World Health Organization (WHO) malaria is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium, which is transmitted via the bites of infected mosquitoes. In the human body, the parasites multiply in the liver, and then infect red blood cells. Symptoms of malaria include fever, headache, and vomiting, and usually appear between 10 and 15 days after the
mosquito bite. If not treated, malaria can quickly become life-threatening by disrupting the blood supply to vital organs. In many parts of the world, the parasites have developed resistance to a number of malaria medicines. Key interventions to control malaria include: prompt and effective treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapies; use of insecticidal nets by people at risk; and indoor residual spraying with insecticide to control the vector mosquitoes. (PIA 12)
DOH muling nagpaalala hinggil sa sakit na malaria KORONADAL CITY, Nob 14 – Bagama’t bumababa ang bilang ng mga nagkakasakit ng malaria sa buong Rehiyon Dose, patuloy pa rin ang Department of Health (DOH) sa pagpapaalala sa publiko na protektahan sa kanilang sarili laban sa sakit na malaria. Monday, November 14, 2011
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Ayon kay Elvie Dominicata, cluster head ng Global Fund to Fight Malaria sa Soccsksargen Region, apat na hakbang ang dapat tandaan ng mga mamamayan upang makaiwas at maprotrektahan laban sa sakit. Pinakamahalaga dito ang paggamit ng kulambo sa panahon ng pagtulog. Mahalaga din aniya ang pagpapa-eksamin ng dugo sakaling nakakaramdam ng lagnat, panginginig na may kasamang pagpapawis. Sa mga lugar na hindi pa nabibigyan ng mga insecticidetreated mosquito nets, pumunta lang sa pinakamalapit na rural health center para magpatubog sa kanilang mga kulambo. Kung sakaling may sakit na na malaria, mahalaga ding kumpletuhin ang gamutan sa sakit. Paala-ala ni Dominicata, libre ang gamot sa malaria sa mga health center. Mula Enero hanggang Oktubre mayroon lamang 124 na kaso ng malaria sa apat na lalawigan ng Soccsksargen Region. Mababa ito ng 82% kung ikukumpara sa 694 na kaso sa buong taon ng 2010. Ang buwan ng Nobyembre ay pinagdidiriwang bilang Malaria Awareness Month sa buong Pilipinas sa pangunguna ang Department of Health (DOH) (DEDoguiles/PIA 12) 22
Monday, November 14, 2011
Jobs fair ipatutupad sa Tulunan at Midsayap, N. Cotabato
KORONADAL CITY -- Inaanyayahan ng Department of Labor and Employment sa North Cotabato ang mga residente lalung lalo na ang mga naghahanap ng trabaho na nakatira malapit sa mga bayan ng Tulunan at Midsayap. Bukas, nakatakda ang jobs fair sa munisipyo ng Tulunan samantalang nakatakda namang gawin sa Midsayap ang kaparehong jobs fair sa Nobyembre 18, Biyernes. Tampok sa naturang jobs fair ang maraming bakanteng trabaho sa bansa sa Middle East tulad ng Saudi Arabia, Qatar, at Kuwait at maging sa bansang Singapore. May mga bakanteng trabaho para sa skilled workers tulad ng telecom technicians, karpentero, trailer at truck drivers, pati na ang mga civil engineers.
May mga bakanteng trabaho din para sa mga nagnanais makapagtrabaho sa mga call center at marami pang ibang trabaho sa lokal. Payo ng DOLE-North Cotabato makatutulong ng malaki kung dala ng mga aplikante ang maraming kopya ang kanilang mga dokumento tulad ng diploma, transcript of records, biodata, mga certificate, at iba pang credentials o papeles. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)
SP pinuri ang PNP-S. Cotabato director KORONADAL CITY– Pinuri ng mga opisyal ng Lalawigan ng South Cotabato ang magandang performance ng bagong police director lalo na sa pagtugon sa kapayapaan at kaayu-
san ng lugar sa loob ng nakalipas na dalawang buwan. Sa isang resolution, pinapurihan ng mga miyembro ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng South Cotabato si police provincial director S/Supt. Randolph Delfin dahil sa kanyang hindi matawarang accomplishments lalo na sa pagsugpo ng krimen sa buong lalawigan. Tinukoy ng Sanggunian ang mga ginawang hakbang ni Delfin lalo na ang mga bagong estratehiya na nakatulong sa pagpapababa ng mga insidente ng krimen gaya ng carnapping, pamamaril, illegal na druga at iba pang mga kahalintulad na krimen. Ayon kay Peace and Order committee chairman at Board Member Agustin Dema-ala, nakatala umano sa mga records na ang crime solution efficiency ng South Cotabato Police Provincial Office ay tumaas ng 11.2% simula ng itinalaga si Delfin sa posisyon sa kalagitnaan ng buwan ng Setyembre. Pinuri din ng Sanggunian ang mga ginawang regular at surprise inspection sa iba’t-ibang mga estasyon ng pulisya kahit na sa kalagitnaan ng gabi, upang maseguro lamang umano na tinutupad ng mga kapulisan ang kanilang mga tungkulin at mandato. Ipinatupad din ni Delfin ang maximum police visibility sa lahat ng mga pampublikong lugar sa lalawigan, na siyang naging dahilan ng pagbaba ng kriminalidad. (ac agad PIA12) Monday, November 14, 2011
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Skills training-workshop on HIV, AIDS set in Butuan by Jennifer P. Gaitano
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Life Skills Training-Workshop on HIV and AIDS in the Challenges of the New Era will be held on November 2526, 2011 at the Prince Hotel, Butuan City.
www.piacaraga.blogspot.com
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http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-Caraga-Updates/165374590187484
Monday, November 14, 2011
piacaraga@gmail.com pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph
This will be sponsored by the Caraga Youth Leaders’ Network Inc. (CYLN), Office of the Vice President for External Affairs of the United Nations Youth Association of the Philippines (UNYAP), and Institute for Youth Development Affairs of the Philippines in partnership with AIDS Society of the Philippines, Department of Health, and Commission on Higher Education. The objectives of the training are: 1) To equip young leaders, educators, and advocates on the necessary skills to acquire in HIV & AIDS education; 2) To input new data on AIDS victims and on the progress of AIDS vaccine; and 3) To produce more advocates to fight the spread of HIV among the public particularly the youths. Mr. Rex F. Ybanez , CEO of CYLN and Vice President for External Affairs emhasized that the local government units and the academe must take a serious step to fight the spread of the HIV. All regions of the country are reporting AIDS
patient, which Caraga is not included. “HIV/AIDS is a serious issue. The public must have appropriate education with regards to HIV and its particulars. The youth must be given focus by the Local Government Units for they are the most vulnerable or most at risk to the HIV,” Ybañez stressed. The participants of said training are the Sanguniang Kabataan, Supreme Student Government (SSG) officers, educators, nurses, and others. CYLN, Inc. is the sole, largest and leading regional non-government organization
(NGO) which focuses to the advancement of Caraganon youth development affairs in Caraga Region, Northern Mindanao, Philippines. For more details, Ybañez encourages interested parties to call their office at the 4th Floor, Commission on Population (PopCom) Caraga Regional Office, Balebria Building, Pili Drive Street, this city at telephone number (085) 346-9842. Others may also visit the CYLN blogspot at w w w. c a ra g a y o u t h l e adersnetworkinc.blogspot.com or e-mail them at cyln_caraga@ yahoo.com.ph.
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Whirlwind hits Brgy. Victoria in Tago, Surigao del Sur
by Nida Grace B. Tranquilan
SURIGAO DEL SUR - A whirlwind, locally known as “ipo-ipo” hit Barangay Victoria in Tago, this province at around 8:45 am on Sunday, the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC) reported.
According to Norberto Lorente, Provincial DRRMC staff who conducted an ocular inspection after the incident, one wait-
ing shed and an unfinished house made of light materials was reported totally damaged, while part of the roof of some houses
were flown away to strong wind. According to ente, no injured recorded during phenomenon.
due Lorwas the
Gordon ignites Filipinos’ sense of volunteerism by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton
BUTUAN CITY -- The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has set December 4, 2011 for the conduct of “Million Volunteer Run,” which will be held simultaneously in all key cities and municipalities in the country.
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The activity is in line with the United Nations’ declaration of 2011 as the International Year of Volunteers and the annual celebration of International Day of Volunteers every 5th of December. PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon, who conceptualized the event, is also advocating the sense of volunteerism in the heart of every Filipino. Gordon said the volunteer run will be seen as the unity of the nation’s volunteers by running together for the sake of humanity. “It will be the de-
fining moment for a culture of volunteerism in our country--a culture that will save our country and our people from the horrors of disasters,” Gordon said. The registration fee is P500 for professionals and P350 for students. Proceeds of the Run will be used to fund the training program of the 143 volunteers. Each participant will be given Million Volunteer Run t-shirt, 143 ID with Disaster Preparedness Guide, a whistle, race number, and Red Cross Membership with Accident Insurance Benefits or coverage. On the other hand, participants of the Million Run will also be registered as Red Cross 143 volunteers. They will be trained later on disas-
ter management. Meanwhile, the PRC chairman said that since the Philippines is visited with natural catastrophes all year-round, the people must be empowered with humanitarian soldiers equipped with lifesaving skills to help others. For this reason, the participants of the Run will be given trainings after the event. Gordon added that the best way to prepare for disasters is to train and immerse the people on risk reduction management. The Red Cross 143 volunteers is a flagship volunteer program that recruits and trains 44 volunteers in every barangay on disaster management including disaster risk reduction and disaster response. In a related de-
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velopment, Teodoro Cairo, Chapter Administrator of PRC Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter is calling all the Butuanons to
participate in the said event and make a history. For further details of the Run, visit PRC website: www.red-
cross.org.ph or visit the Red Cross Chapter at Capitol Site, Butuan City with telephone numbers 3428521 or 815-9977.
Prov’l jail needs more guards, says warden BUTUAN CITY –- Agusan del Norte Provincial Jail Warden Engr. Luisito P. Azura said the Agusan del Norte provincial jail lacks jail guards personnel.
Based on the penology standards set by the authority, the ratio and proportion of jail guard-inmates in Agusan del Norte provincial jail is not 28
appropriate, he said. However, Azura said that although there is a lack of manpower for the meantime, the problem must be settled base
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on the available resources. Azura clarified that if the provincial jail of Agusan del Norte needs extensive security, the jail guards that are of off-duty must be recalled to augment the security needs of the said jail and as well as to make sure that the custodial matters are will be well provided. (Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton)
DAR Surigao Norte to turn-over potable water supply system in Tubod by Edilberto Odvina
SURIGAO DEL NORTE -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) - Surigao del Norte together with Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project (ARISP) is set to turn-over a Potable Water Supply System Level II on Tuesday, November 15 at San Isidro Barangay Hall, Tubod, this province. DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer PARO-II Teresita E. Depeñoso said the project costs around P3,345,004, “with the funding source from DAR-ARISP III costing around Php 1,674,764 and LGU of Tubod for Php 1,670,240 as equity.” Depeñoso also said the Potable Water Supply System will be implemented by LGU Tubod and it is located in Barangay San Isidro, Tubod town. “Soon to cater 220 households and being contracted with BILCO Construction in the amount of Php. 2,222,697.57 which scope of work was the construction of Intake Box and Ground Reservoir; Installation of Transmission and Distribution pipes and 34 units of communal fau-
cets,” she added. The ceremonial turn-over will start with the blessing of the completed PWS project and unveiling of project billboard and to follow the cutting of ribbon by Gov. Sol F. Matugas; 2nd district Rep. Congressman Guillermo A. Romarate Jr.; Tubod Mayor Cristina Hemady R. Arcillas; DAR Caraga Director Faisar A. Mambuay, CESO IV; National Project Manager - ARISP III Director Ma. Celerina G. Afable; ARISP III Technical Coordinator Engr. Mel Lamboon, and Team Leader Project Consultant Mr. Yukihiro Kawahara. The second part is the ceremonial program proper in which the introduction of guest and participants will be conducted by MARO Venancia S. Signar of DARMOTubod; Presentation of
project profile by Municipal Engineer Jocelyn Macarayo and follows the project Turn-over Key of Responsibility and Signing Certificate of Turn-Over and Acceptance with the Contractor, DAR, MLGU in the person of Mayor Arcillas and Barangay Captain Carmelito R. Arado of BLGU. Inspirational Messages will also be given by Gov. Matugas; Cong. Romarate; Dir. Mambuay; Dir. Afable and Mr. Kahawar then lunch will follow after the program.
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Care giving graduates take national competency exam at PPTS by Gideon C. Corgue
PAGADIAN CITY – 21 care giving graduates of Philippine Paramedical Technical School (PPTS) on Friday took the national competency assessment and certification exam conducted by the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) at PPTS here. 30
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Clinical Instructor Raymund Pedrosa said the assessment is done by TESDA in the accredited assessment schools to measure assessee’s level of competency in the field of care giving. “The graduates are required to take the National Competency (NC) II TESDA certification exam as a requirement to work in the country or abroad,” Pedrosa said. Pedrosa said the NC II certificate is a major requirement for the care giving graduates who wish to work abroad or in our country. “It is a vital document that an agency or employer is looking from a caregiver as evidence to show that he or she is a competent
health care provider,” Pedrosa added. Pedrosa said, PPTS the only TESDA accredited assessment school in Zamboanga del Sur since 2008 has conducted several batches of assessment in care giving and health care services and has produced caregivers abroad. The assessors composed of nursing department head Paulo Martin and instructress Mae Sunshine Sarmiento and TESDA representative Teresa Mendoza appraised the assessees skills that they’ve learned from their school by requiring them to take a written exam, perform basic life support and cardiopulmonary resuscitation
and bed making. Pedrosa said PPTS will accommodate not only their own graduates to take the exam but also those coming from other schools saying it is the only accredited assessment school in the province. Further, PPTS will also accommodate students who wish to take an assessment exam for health care services (NC) II. Those who wish to take the exam are required to submit the following: assessment form, recent 2x2 r ID picture and P350.00 assessment fee, Pedrosa concluded. (NBE/GCC/ PIA9-Pagadian)
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1st WESCOM Badminton Cup to promote healthy lifestyle
SABELA CITY, Basilan – Military and civilian employees of the Western Command (WESCOM) battled it out in the badminton court for the honor of winning the 1st WESCOM Badminton Cup held at the command’s gymnasium on November 04. The 6th Civil Relations Group disclosed that the competition was organized by the WESCOM Badminton Club (WESBAC) headed by LTC Samuel R. Cabang as its Interim President. It was opened to all military and civilian personnel of WESCOM who are badminton enthusiasts. SSgt Elmer Santos and Jhong Estrella, the Chief Civilian Personnel, triumphed other players in the men’s double category while Ms Jocelyn 32
dela Cruz from the Accounting Office and SSg Gladys Villarosa from the Dental Unit emerged as champions in the women’s double category. LTC Cabang said the badminton competition aims to promote healthy lifestyle among the WESCOM personnel and foster better camaraderie among the military and civilian employees of the unified command. “We can win friends for peace and this is what
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the activity is all about,” LTC Cabang said. WESCOM Commander LTGen Juancho M. Sabban AFP congratulated WESBAC for having successfully organized and held the 1st Badminton Cup. The activity, according to the general, not only provided a respite from the daily grind of their jobs but also created an opportunity to stretch their muscles. “Every now and then, we need to work
out, to break away from the daily routines and to sweat. This activity is a way to show that we are concerned with our physical fitness,” LTGen Sabban AFP said. The WESCOM Chief,
along with the WESBAC President, LTC Cabang initiated the ceremonial service that formally opened the sports competition. Before the game began, LTGen Sabban
AFP reminded the players that what is more important than winning is how the game was played. “Competition like this does not only call that we display sportsmanship. It also allows us to overcome weaknesses, appreciate adversaries and find fulfillment along the way,” the WESCOM Chief said. (6CRGAFP/RVC-PIA9 ZBST)
BIR urges professionals to be tax law compliant by Paulnazer T. Lontua
ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY --Revenue District Officer (RDO) of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in Zamboanga Sibugay, Monib Dimakuta, urged professionals to comply with tax laws and file their income tax correctly and on time.
According to Dimakuta, he is putting on his priority list the monitoring and checking of all the tax obligations of professionals in his areas of re-
sponsibility. “I would like to post this invitation to all the professionals out there who have tax obligations to comply and make sure they
file their income tax correctly and on time because I am putting this monitoring on all professionals,” Dimakuta emphasized. In Zamboan-
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ga Sibugay, Dimakuta urged doctors, lawyers, engineers and all professionals to abide by the tax law to prevent any trouble with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in the future as it will not hesitate to implement the Oplan Kandado to delinquent tax payers. The BIR raised its revenue collections last year and expected to do the same this year. The bulk of the increase would come from the professional segment comprise of doctors, lawyers, accountants and 34
other high-earning self-employed individuals. The country has about 700,000 professionals, but they contributed only P7 billion to government coffers in 2009. Department of Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima earlier said this amount would translate to an average contribution of P5,000 from each of the 700,000 professionals for that year. According to the Professional Regulatory Commission, the Philippines have three million professionals, including nurses, doc-
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tors, engineers and seamen who are either selfemployed or employed. Lawyers and doctors, who are presumed to earn the most among professionals, numbered 190,000. (NBE / P. Lontua/ SebEx)
Illegal constructions inide private bldgs. top security issues in Lanao Sur
T
he discreet construction of hardened gun-fighting positions inside private buildings and the ill-constructed road humps that restrict the flow of traffic topped the security issues in the province.
These issues surfaced during an open forum that was conducted, as part of a training/seminar on Radio Land Mobile, at the Mindanao State University (MSU) Cafeteria, recently. Initiated by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), some 300 members, from 20 various radio clubs in the province, attended the training, which was aimed to educate the radio operators on how to contribute for the good of the communities. Col. Daniel A. Lucero,
Commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade (103Bde), 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army, who was one of the guest speakers, pointed out the importance of communications for peace and development. “As users of the radio, we shall take advantage of the tool to help solve crimes in the province of Lanao,� Lucero said. Taking advantage of his presence and that of P/Sr. Supt. Romeo Magsalos, Director of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office, an open Monday, November 14, 2011
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forum was held regarding security issues in the area. Some of the issues clarified were about the discreet construction of hardened gun-fighting positions inside private buildings, which accordingly implied the ill-intent of the owners. Another was the ill-constructed road humps that restrict flow of traffic, which Lucero said, was properly acted
upon by the Army in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), especially, in the Lumba Bayabao area. (103Bde/PIA-10)
Phil. Army, LTO step-up campaign against illegal motorists in Marawi City MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - At least 29 various types of motor vehicles (MV’s) were apprehended during the recent one-day checkpoint operation conducted by the Philippine Army (PA) units in two (2) different locations, here in the city.
The checkpoint operations were based on the deputation order number AMM-061-2011 issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for specified members of the 103rd Infantry Brigade (103Bde), 36
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1ST Infantry Division, PA, stationed here. As a result, various types of MV’s ranging from private sports utility vehicles (SUV’s), motorcycles, tricycles, CAB type, multicabs and public utility vehicles (PU’s) were apprehended and temporarily impounded at the main headquarters of 103Bde at Kampo Ranao. Offenses committed by drivers or operators ranged from: no registration, expired registration, expired drivers’ license and driving without license. The effect was that there were no more MV’s plying the area with similar
expected offenses, the following day and that most of the vehicles were already released to their respective owners after paying appropriate penalties through LTO-Marawi City. According to LTO Marawi and Iligan branches, their respective collection increased for the past weeks due to the publicized deputation of the elements of this unit to LTO. It’s been noted that suspected carnapped vehicles were brought in the area and utilized for illegal activities, such as, drug trade and other syndicated crimes. Meanwhile, Col. Danilo A. Lucero, Commander of 103Bde,
vowed to help restore public order and confidence of the populace through strict enforcement of laws and implementation of checkpoints. It also plans to step-up inspection to include checking of possible illegal contrabands, such as, firearms and prohibited drugs soon. As part of the aspirations of the Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan,” (unity and cooperation), 103Bde will continue pursuing support operations for the protection of the populace against unscrupulous groups within the Lanao Provinces, Lucero said. (103Bde PA)
BIR conducts on-the-spot verifications on withholding tax compliance By Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental – On the spot verifications to ascertain that the applicable regulations on Withholding Tax are fully complied with is now being conducted by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Revenue District Office No. 98, this city. This measure is done to intensify BIR’s efforts to achieve its collection target for taxable year 2011, Samson Q. Carcueva, Jr., Officer-in-Charge of RDO 98, said. Carcueva said it has been observed that some local government units (LGU’s) and government agencies and instrumentalities (GAI’s) failed to deduct and remit the correct withholding taxes on compensation
of their employees and government money payments. To regulate, BIR is compelled to initiate measures to strictly monitor their adherence to Revenue Regulations No 2-98, as amended, and other existing withholding tax regulations. Thus, RDO 98 has called on all government withholding agents, in its area of coverage, to accurately withhold, perform Monday, November 14, 2011
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end adjustments, in accordance with Revenue Memorandum Circulars (RMC) No. 21-2010 and No. 23-2007and Revenue Regulations (RR) No. 10-2008, to avoid unnecessary penalties including administrative sanctions and even criminal charges. Meanwhile, Carcueva emphasized that the 13th month pay and other benefits, in excess of the statutory amount of Php30,000, are subject to withholding tax. For compensation earners in the government sector, these excesses include the year-end bonus received by employees of the local government units (LGU’s) and government agencies and instrumentalities (GAI’s). Pursuant to a recent Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) No. 27-2011, voluntary contributions in excess to what the law allows are no longer excludible from the gross income of the taxpayer, hence, it is not exempted from income and withholding tax. Consequently, the exemption from withholding tax on compensation referred to in Section 2.78.1 (b)(12) of RR 2-98 shall apply only to mandatory/ compulsory contributions of the Government Service Insurance 38
Monday, November 14, 2011
System (GSIS), Social Security System (SSS), Medicare and PagIbig contributions. Further, per Revenue Regulations No. 2-2006, all withholding agents are strictly required to submit the Monthly Alpha list of Payees (MAP) in electronic, hard and soft copy, as attachment to BIR Form No. 16001-E and BIR Form No. 1600. Incidentally,Carcueva said the applicable penalties for noncompliance with existing tax laws and regulations relative to withholding taxes are as follows: Additions to the tax, in the form of penalties or interest per Section 249, 252 and 255 under Title X, Chapter 1 of the Tax Code, as amended. Criminal liablitilies in the form of fine or imprisonment or both, per sections 255 and 272 of the Tax Code, as amended. For further assistance, you may visit RDO 98 at the Ground Floor, BIR Building, Westbound Terminal, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City, or call (08822) 711-6437 , local 104 or better still,visit website www.bir,gov.ph for easy reference to the full text of the pertinent regulations on this matter.
FCAP calls for strict enforcement of cigarette ad ban by Jorie C. Valcorza CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Atty. Josefina Buenaseda, legal consultant of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Alliance Philippines (FCAP) called on the Tobacco Control Group in Region 10 for the strict banning of all tobacco advertisements in televisions, newspapers, billboards and internet. A t t y . Buenaseda noted that the advertisement ban on smoke also includes sponsorship a n d promotions and that compliance on these areas were quite loose. FCAP showed several violations explicitly caught on pictures like lighted signages of establishments, posters, and cigarettes vendors near schools campuses. FCAP had been actively campaigning with its partners to help end the proliferation of these materials. She said cigarette companies will go as far as having some streets named after their brands. FCAP warned local counterparts, especially
the local government officials to hold on their commitment in protecting the welfare of their constituents and veer away from any dealings with cigarette industries. FCAP further challenged local chief executives to pass an ordinances adopting RA 9211, an act regulating the packaging, use, sale distribution and advertisement of tobacco products. Some LGUs have successfully won the battle and stomped the smokers out. In Misamis Oriental, the town of Talisayan was acknowledged as the first 100% smoke free municipality in the country.
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Smile mission helps 12 kids in Camiguin By Jorie C. Valcorza
CAMIGUIN – Twelve children in this small but paradise like island province, could soon flaunt beautiful smiles after receiving free surgical treatment for cleft lip and palate deformities. Most of these kids are now on their second surgery. Amidst the pain that they have to hurdle to get their winning smiles they were able to muster their courage again to undergo the surgical treatment. The Family to Family and Philippine Service of Mercy Foundation in cooperation with the German doctors successfully initiated the medical mission recently at the Camiguin General Hospital. The smile outreach is regularly undertaken in coordination with the local government who in turn refer children with cleft lip and palate deformities. Community Based Rehabilitation Service Coordinator, Marydel Credo said that cleft lip repair is best initiated at early age between two to six months, although in many cases, treatment and surgery of cleft palates may occur over years of child development.
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Davao likely to meet 6 out of 8 Millenium Devt. Goals by Mai Gevera Macapagat
S
ix out of eight goals of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) are most likely to be attained in Davao Region provinces by 2015.
The National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) released in yesterday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw held at the SM City Davao the study showing Davao region’s high probability to reach six goals, although two goals appeared to have medium probability. NSCB XI regional director Estrella Turingan said that Goals 1 and 2 appeared to be lagging behind as monitored by the government office. The first goal is to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger while the second goal is to achieve universal primary education. The study used poverty incidence and poverty gap ration to monitor efforts in eradication extreme poverty and hunger. In measuring the goal of achieving universal primary education, NSCB used net enrolment ration and cohort survival rate as
indicators. “Of the eight goals that we are working on, these two areas appeared to be unlikely to be reached as compared to the six other goals.” she said. Similar studies done in other regions outside Mindanao would usually release results every end of the year. Study results in Mindanao regions showed that Regions 10, 11, and 12 exhibited high probability of attaining MDG goals. Turingan explained that countries which fail to attain these MDGs may not be sanctioned however it would reflect the performance of the country. This could be made basis is a country deserves to be granted Monday, November 14, 2011
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with foreign funding for project assistance. The progress of countries in attaining the MDGs over the period 1990 to 2015 is being monitored through a set of core indicators defined by the UN and rationalized by countries to suit their respective thrusts. MDGs are time-bound and mea-
surable goals and targets for combating poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy, environmental degradation and discrimination against women. They consist of eight goals, 18 targets and 48 indicators that are periodically monitored at the international and country levels, based on a timeline from 1990 to 2015. (PIA/ Mai Gevera-Macapagat)
Giant holiday tree lighting signals start of Tagum’s festive Christmas season TAGUM CITY- All that glitters lighting up a towering holiday tree finally come to life on Wednesday night which will kick-off this city’s festive Christmas Season.
lead Tagumeños in this ceremony along with local officials and city’s stakeholders. As expected, the lighting of the iconic holiday tree will also benefit micro-entrepreneurs in the city, es All roads will lead to this city’s freedom park on November 16, 2011 pecially among those vendors in the vicinity of Freedom Park and downfor the formal lighting of the 108.6town area. feet holiday tree that has become Tagumeños are also excited one of Tagum City’s most-attended events, drawing thousands of people about Wednesday’s event—a thing they can’t contain they had to share from all walks of life to witness the it on popular social networking site holiday tree shine and glimmer. The structure has thus become Facebook. “What I love about the lightone of icons of the city for its distinct design, changing each year that ing is that it brings Tagumeños all together. The tree gives hope and a pass—for the better. time to temporarily rest the heavy The said holiday tree was once dubbed as the country’s tallest years luggage brought by living an urban life,” wrote Felix Rey Largo, a student ago, dethroning that of Palawan’s. of University of Southeastern Philip This year’s ceremony will honpines, on his facebook wall. or dispatchers, vendors and other For Novea Anne Villegas, the people working at the public market, paying tribute to their contribution to holiday tree is more than a towering structure. It’s a symbol of friendship, the development of the city. Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy will she said. “Every time it’s being lighted 42
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up, my barkada is complete and it’s fun,” she added. “Tagum’s Holiday Tree is not only an edifice standing amidst the crowd but a symbol hope to everyone,” exclaimed Marc Francis Labata. For those coming to witness this event, ceremonies will start at exactly 5 in the afternoon at the freedom park and will feature choir performances from the students of Saint Mary’s College and Magugpo Pilot Imelda Elementary School. (By Louie Bryan M. Lapat/Edwin of City Information Office – Tagum )
Architectural blue print of the giant christmas tree.
Aflatoun academy to rise in Tagum City by Jean Duron Abangan
TAGUM CITY ---- Tagum City public schools adopting financial literacy are expected to develop into Aflatoun Academy where children from various schools get to absorb lessons on financial management and social responsibilities. Coop-National Confederation of Cooperatives House Representative Cresente Paez floated this view having learned during the recent 1st TC Youth Laboratory Cooperative that the 18,534 young-savers of Tagum Cooperative (TC) had generated a total of P25.6 million as of Oct. 2011. The young savers belong to Youth Savers, Power Teen, Afla-
toun and Youth Laboratory Cooperative. Started in early 2000, the Youth Savers and the Power Teen savers groups poured an accummulated savings deposits of P25 million from their 15,912 combined members. The school-based Aflatoun savers group is seen to grow fast in membership now that Tagum Cooperative has adopted Aflatoun in cooperation with the Department of Education (DepEd) Tagum City Schools Division. Aflatoun is a “concept to teach children about social values, and rights and responsibilities coupled Monday, November 14, 2011
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with basic financial education.” Tested in India 18 years ago, the Aflatoun concept is also aimed at facilitating the “inclusion of Child Social and Financial Education into formal and informal education systems as a recognition of child’s rights.” DepEd Tagum City Schools Supt. Nenita Lumaad who also chairs the Board of Directors of Tagum Cooperative calls such Aflatoun implementation in Tagum City as Financial Literacy for the Youth (FLY). With Tagum Cooperative as its major partner, DepEd Tagum is pilot-testing it in seven public elementary schools particularly in Rizal, Mankilam, Pilot, La Filipina, Laureta, Apokon and Catalan. Aflatoun has drawn 2,167 savers from the pilot schools since its implementation in June this year but Aflatoun membership is expected to grow wide next year as Tagum Cooperative plans to spread its coverage next year, requiring each branch to adopt one to three schools in its location. Aside from its branches in Tagum City, Tagum Cooperative branches out to neighboring towns of Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province; in Carmen, Davao del Norte; and in the cities of Panabo and Davao City. Paez viewed it worth looking into the best practices of Tagum Cooperative in terms of generating savings from young savers. “Why it has gone this far? Kids are made capable of generating savings,” he said. Tagum Cooperative has 44
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invested about P300,000 in rolling out Aflatoun. It shoulders the printing of teachers’ manuals to integrate financial literary in school curriculum. It also provides free passbooks and deposit slips to savers in schools. Generating savings in schools does not involve the principal nor the teachers as DepEd Tagum City Schools Division mobilizes student organizations in every classroom to take charge of collecting savings on certain days when Tagum Cooperative collectors will visit the school. “Dili mahilabtan ang kwarta sa maestra ug dili mabuntagan diha sa eskwelahan kay may collector ang Tagum Coop. (Teachers won’t be able to touch the money nor will the money be left overnight in schools. Tagum Cooperative has its collectors.),” Lumaad said. Paez noted well how Tagum Cooperative along with DepEd Tagum City Schools Division had institutionalized the practice of actual saving as an application of the social and financial literary, including leadership and values . “The program is in place, modules are there, accounting is in place. There is actual experience,” he said. Admitting how impressed he was of Tagum Cooperative’s young savers savings performance, Paez vowed to file a resolution commending Tagum City’s home-grown cooperative, once Congress re-opens i ts session. He e xpected such resolution to trigger curiosity and generate
interest nationwide on how Tagum Cooperative had made laudable results in implementing financial literacy and leadership programs for young people. He also believed DepEd to eventually consider adopting Aflatoun “on a wider scale” especially in areas where DepEd can tie up with well-managed cooperatives to handle
the savings deposits of school children. “In areas where there is fertile ground for this kind of program to grow, then DepEd should encourage and tell the school superintendent to do it because you have the infrastructure,” Paez said. (PIA11/jean d abangan)
REGIONAL GALLERY
Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo P. del Rosario drops the time capsule during the inauguration rites of the construction of the P243 million worth Davao del Norte Sports Complex. With him are Davao del Norte Vice Gov. Victorio Suaybaguio, Tagum City Mayor Uy, SP board members, mayors of towns of Davao del Norte and heads of provincial government agencies... (PIA-11 Jean D. Abangan)
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