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
EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI
Managing Editor …….........
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
Regional Desk Editors …...
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)
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
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
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Central Mindanao (SOCSKARGEN) 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
2nd Lanao del Sur Cooperative Congress
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga) Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg., J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239 Telefax no. (085) 341-2370 Cellphone no. 0917-7188834 Email: piacaraga@gmail.com pia_caraga@yahoo.com,ph
Photo Credits:http://dateline.ph, storm-crypt, Fritzs,
Cover Story :
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2nd Lanao del Sur Cooperative Congress: Declaring all-out unity and cooperation for prosperity and peace
By Apipa Bagumbaran
NATI O NAL
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Male to male HIV transmission risesn Leptospirosis also a work hazard for farmers and butchers
ZamboSur police investigators undergo criminal investigation course
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ALS to hold A & E Test on Sunday
Dipolog joins National Filariasis Month celebration
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CENTRAL Mindanao
CARAGA Region
SSS tightens watch on delinquent employers DAR pours in P10M assistance to develop farmers’ enterprises DAR turns over P8.5M infra projects to DavOr farmers
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NORTHERN Mindanao
“Barkada Kontra Droga” launched in Dipolog
Aquino government considers stop-gap measure to improve NAIA Aquino says basic solution to peace and order problem is to achieve freedom from hunger
NOVEMBER 4, 2011
contents
WESTERN Mindanao
Aquino to attend APEC summit in Honolulu next week
SOUTHERN Mindanao
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Vol. 1, No. 82
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DOLE releases P243,000 for water hyacinth handicraft production Youth group in Lebak town initiates development forum
South Cotabato to experience 11-hour power curtailment on Sunday GPH-MILF peace panels hold executive meeting in Kuala Lumpur
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Lanao officials hail PNoy’s “no allout war” stand
Lanao Norte celebrates Eid Al-Adha “beef-sharing” festival on Nov. 6 2nd Regional Media Conference to focus on environment/disaster watch Bukidnon businessmen vow stronger support for govt’s peace-building efforts Lanao Norte, Malaybalay City LGU’s strengthen ties thru sports
Committees finalize activities for MWOP 2011 CIDG-Caraga chief calls Butuanons’ support to solve crimes CFO to hold “Pulong-Pulong” in Surigao Agusan del Sur naglabas ng pondo para palakasin ang produksyon ng pangingisda Pilipinas, sinuportahan ang resolusyon ng UNESCO sa mas malawak na paggamit ng internet tungo sa kaunlaran
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Cover Story 2nd Lanao del Sur Cooperative Congress: Declaring all-out unity and cooperation for prosperity and peace By Apipa Bagumbaran
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lose to 200 cooperative members in the province converged, here, recently and joined hands to put forward the cooperative movement in this part of the country.
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Organized by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), in collaboration with the Provincial Cooperative Office, the 2nd Lanao del Sur Cooperative Congress was aimed at raising public consciousness on the contributions of cooperatives on the socio-economic development of the country. The congress, which carried the theme “Kazalimbutad A Kapamagogopa: Kambayorantang, Kapuromasay, Kaphiaphia, Kathigur Ago Kapanglimbabaan Para Ko Lalayon A Kalilintad Ago Kathagompia (Transformative Cooperative: Advancing People, Planet, Prosperity and Peace),” also aimed to promote the spirit of cooperativism as a vehicle for social transformation for the people, planet, prosperity and peace. The theme is fittingly appropriate as this advocacy is never an affair of the government, alone, but also the concern of all stakeholders of the society especially the people themselves, expressed Lanao del Sur First District Representative Hussein Pacasum-Pangandaman. He said the promotion of cooperatives is one of the ma-
jor interventions of the government to minimize, if not totally, eradicate poverty. By enhancing the capabilities of non-government organizations, livelihood associations, people’s organizations such as cooperatives, and selfhelp groupings dedicated to the people, the government is building-up the capacity of the masses, he added. Pangandaman, who was the keynote speaker of the coop congress, also underscored that active participation and strong adherence to the spirit of cooperativism is one of the necessary ingredients to achieve prosperity and peace. He said what is admirable in the cooperative movement is that it will only decide in favor of the common good and not on a particular person’s vested interest. Hence, he expressed the need for strong cooperatives that are guided by transparency and accountability to ensure that the cooperatives’ interest will prevail in the community. Pangandaman also urged the participants to transform into cooperative efforts the admirable culture and tradition of Friday, November 4, 2011
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Maranaos towards the concept of “kapamagogopa,� which means helping one another for prosperity and peace within the challenging environment. Expansion of membership
Emphasizing that cooperative is a solution to minimize poverty, reduce unemployment, and promote peace and order, Atty. Paisalin Tago, CDA Administrator for Mindanao, said one of the agenda of the authority is to increase the total membership to 20 million by 2013, compared to the current total membership of more than seven (7) 6
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million, only. He said the CDA is encouraging cooperatives to register again as mandated by Republic Act 9520 citing that, currently, only more than 20,000 cooperatives are reg-
istered compared to the more than 90,000 registered cooperatives before the enactment of the new cooperative code. Tago also disclosed that they are eyeing conversion of the so-called electric cooperatives (ECs) into genuine cooperatives as a strategy to increase membership.
Ensuring competitiveness Aside from the expansion in membership, CDA will also strengthen and enhance its delivery mechanism and provide an enabling environment for the strengthening and development of cooperatives in the country. As provided in the Philippine Cooperative Medium-Term Development Plan (PCMTDP) for 2011-2016, CDA will ensure access of cooperatives to global markets, provide viable linkages and networks to support cooperatives and establish appropriate quality system. It also creates the appropriate environment for partner-
ship among cooperatives, both local and international, local government units (LGUs), national line agencies, non-government organizations, people’s organizations, and the private sector. Such policies will ensure viable, competitive and sustainable cooperatives as engine of growth and development. Furthermore, CDA will also promote cooperativism as the vehicle for social transformation to build strategic and synergistic alliances between and among stakeholders in the cooperative industry. Meanwhile, Dr. Amer A. Comadug, Director for Research and Extension
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of the Mindanao State University (MSU) has expressed commitment to support CDA in its agenda of advancing human resource development. He said the MSU, through technical assistance, will assist the CDA and the newlyorganized Cooperative Union of Lanao del Sur in enhancing their skills and capabilities to make them effective in carrying out endeavours to advance cooperativism.
and the Moro Islamic Liberation (MILF) to resume with the peace talks in Mindanao. This consensus was agreed by the members of the Cooperative Union of Lanao del Sur (CUL) during the 2nd Provincial Cooperative Congress held, recently, at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol, here. The union requested both the government and MILF to resolve, once and for all, the ongoing atrocities affecting some
areas in Mindanao The Peace Agenda and also give preferential inter The newly-organized union est to peace and development of cooperatives in the province in the Autonomous Region in has urged the government Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). 8
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With the presence of conflict, the union members believed that it could not engage in business and expand their social and economic endeavors that would contribute to the development in their respective localities. The following CUL officers also took their oath during the gathering: Dr. Lominog B. Manoga President, Sultan Tingagun Macaagir, Vice President, Abdulrahman Barazar, Secretary, Aleem Abdulmalik Macarampat, Treasurer, Soraidah Alonto, Bookkeeper, and Saifon Abdulmanan, Faisal Mangco, and Engr. Omar Macarimbang, Board of Directors. Meanwhile, Tago and his fellow
CDA Administrator for Mindanao, Pendatun B. Disimban, have called on the CUL officers to join in the Mindanao Peace Forum, this Nov. 11, to show that cooperatives are not only instrument of social justice and sustainable development but also vehicles for peace. The peace forum, dubbed as 11.11.11, is slated to be held at the Atrium of Lim Ket Kai Center in Cagayan de Oro City. Cooperative leaders from all over the country is expected to participate to advance what they believe is their inherent right to live in peace founded on social justice, equity, and sustainable development.
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Aquino to attend APEC summit in Honolulu next week
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III will leave next week to attend the 19th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Week in Honolulu, Hawaii to be held from November 8 to 13.
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President Aquino will be joined by a lean delegation led by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo and Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima. During the APEC Leaders meeting, the President together with 20 other APEC leaders will discuss relevant issues, including growth and jobs, regulatory reform and competitiveness, and energy efficiency and security. APEC 2011 which is hosted by the United States, is working towards the achievement of a “seamless regional economy.” Prior to the APEC Leader’s Meeting, the President will be attending the APEC CEO Summit, which is scheduled on No-
vember 11 to 12. During the event, DFA Undersecretary for International Economic Relations Laura del Rosario said President Aquino will talk about energy, food and commodity security. The APEC CEO Summit is held annually in the APEC host economy just prior to the annual APEC Leaders’ Meeting and is a “by invitation only” event. “The President is the only head of the economy who will be there and there will be two CEOs with him. After that, he will be hosted by a CEO of the US,” del Rosario said during a press briefing in Malacanang. “His host at this time in the evening will be the chairman of Microsoft, Mr. Craig Mundie. He will be the
only h e a d of state to be hosted by Microsoft and together with him are 10 other CEOs,” she added. Del Rosario said that this sends a signal to the Aquino administration that Microsoft is interested in the Philippines. “They want to be able to talk to the President about certain matters that are of importance to us as an economy and to them as a corporation,” she said. The following day, President Aquino will attend the AELM. He will also participate in the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Dialogue with Leaders. The dialogue gives ABAC members the opportunity to meet with APEC lead-
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ers t o discuss the entire year’s ABAC work program and to raise issues of pressing concern to the business community. “The President or the heads of economies will also meet with the ABAC, Business Advisory Council. They will have a dialogue and maybe come out with their own concerns,” she said. “This is where the private sector will tell the heads of the governments: this is what we want you to do; this is what we want you to pursue,” the Foreign Affairs undersecretary added. ABAC Philippines is represented by Ayala Corporation chairman and 12
chief executive officer (CEO) Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Jollibee Foods Corporation and CEO Tony Tan Caktiong and A. Magsaysay Inc. president and CEO Doris Magsaysay Ho. It is also at the AELM where the Economic Leaders take the traditional APEC Family Photo, signifying the member economies continuing commitment towards improved trade and investment in AsiaPacific region. The APEC Leaders’ Week starts on November 8 with the Concluding Senior Officials’ Meeting attended by the APEC Senior Officials from the 21 member economies. The Finance Ministers’ Meeting will be on November 10 to discuss and finalize
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the Finance Ministers’ Statement. The Philippines will be represented by Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima. The APEC Ministerial Meeting (AMM) on November 11, on the other hand, will include a review on the progress of the APEC 2011 agenda and some issue-specific discussions. Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo will attend represent the Philippines in the said meeting. At the AMM, the Trade Ministers Breakout Meeting will be chaired by United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk, and will focus on APEC Leaders agenda and other trade issues. (CO)
Aquino government considers stop-gap measure to improve NAIA
T
he Aquino administration is considering a temporary improvement plan for the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to support the country’s tourism industry in the short term.
Interviewed over Youtube’s World View Interview Series on Friday, President Benigno S. Aquino III said he will be seeing a plan to improve NAIA in the next few years to temporarily support the Philippine
tourism industry. “There is a plan for it, for improving the NAIA, structurally and aesthetically, that will be presented to me by Tuesday next week.,” the President said, adding that “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.”. “Now while
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we’re focusing on tourism, it’s a low lying concern as far as we are concerned. It brings about one direct job for every tourist arrival, so 10 million new jobs is something that we are striving” The President said the airport is heavily saturated, acknowledging the need to improve it or look for possible alternatives to support the country’s growing tourism sector. NAIA, a 30-year old structure, has suffered the ravages of time, according to the President. The whole complex is designed for 32 million arrivals, and it’s now approach14
ing 30 million, he added. 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. Travelers complained of safety concerns, lack of comfortable seating, rude staff, hostile security, poor facilities, no (or few) services to pass the time, bribery, being kicked out and general hassles of being in the airport. It was reported earlier that the Aquino administration plans to relocate NAIA from Pasay City to Clark, Pampanga. However, Trans-
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portation Secretary Manuel Roxas II 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 440hectare NAIA property to fund NAIA’s relocation to Clark. President Aquino is the first Asian leader to be featured on the series, produced by Youtube’s parent company Google Inc. It also featured other world leaders such as United States President Barack Obama, British Prime Minister David Cameroon and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso. (AS)
Aquino says basic solution to peace and order problem is to achieve freedom from hunger
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III said that the basic solution for the peace and order problem in the country, especially in Mindanao is to achieve freedom from hunger as he vowed to push for economic reforms that will empower every Filipino to enjoy a better standard of living. In an interview during the Youtube World View series at the Presidential Broadcast
Studio of Malacanang Palace on Friday, President Aquino said that the people could expect
more opportunities from the government that could effectively lead to inclusive growth
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for eve r yone. “The solution for the rebellion and the secessionist movement, and even the issues of ordinary crime has to deal with achieving the first freedom, which is freedom from hunger,” the President said. “So more opportunities for everybody, more inclusive growth, will see a natural lessening of the issues with regards to peace and order…” he added. When asked on the Aquino administration’s priorities between the peace and order situation in Mindanao and the disputed Spratly Islands, President Aquino said that the government is bent on pursuing efforts that would benefit the Filipino soldiers and police. “Embarking on a 16
campaign for external defense, especially relative to the potential threats from countries in our region, is an unproductive way of utilizing the resources that we have…” the President stressed. “One of the programs that I am really keen about is the housing program for members of our uniformed services… the first phase… the first twenty thousand units will be turned over to the beneficiaries by the middle of January,” the President said. Aside from the housing program, the Chief Executive also bared the plans to refurbish the existing, and acquire more equipment, to beef up the defense capabilities of the military and the national police force. Such acquisitions in the offing include aircrafts, helicopters and combat vessels like that of the Philippine Navy’s Hamilton class
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cutter, commissioned as BRP Gregorio del Pilar that was acquired from the United States Coast Guard recently. Youtube World View Interview series which was moderated by Director Ross LaJeunesse, Head of Public Policy and Government Affairs, Asia Pacific at Google, is a monthly series featuring top leaders from around the globe answering questions submitted and rated by Youtube users. Some of the notable guests that were featured this year include United States of America President Barrack Obama, British Prime Minister David Cameron and European Union Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso. President Aquino is the first Asian leader to be featured on the series, produced by Youtube’s parent company Google Inc. (JCL)
Male to male HIV transmission risesn by Alice V. Sicat
D
epartment of Health (DOH) recordsrevealed that the number of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases transmitted through male to male sexual contact were rising.
Assistant secretary Enrique Tayag said that HIV cases since 2007 have i n creased among the male population, ages
20 to 29 years old, as majority of cases showed that the mode of sexual transmission haveshifted from heterosexual to male to
male sexual contact. He said that the health department is also monitoring other modes by which HIV is spread such as in-
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jecting contaminated drug and mother tochild transmission. He noted that HIV cases will eventually lead to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which weakens the body’s immune system,after 7 to 10 years. DOH records in-
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dicate that there have been 7,684 HIV cases, and 936AIDS cases reported since 1984. Tayag also dismissed as baseless what some people believed as the causes of AIDS transmission, such as mosquito bites, usage of public toilets and by
using utensils, which were used by people infected with the said disease. Dr. Tayag was guest today at the program “Talking Points,” aired live over Radyo ng Bayan and People’s Television Network (PTV-4).
Leptospirosis also a work hazard for farmers and butchers by Precie Catherine C. Cuarto
epartment of Health (DOH) official said farmers and butchers could also catch leptospirosis in their work environment.
DOH Assistant Secretary Eric Tayag said that although leptospirosiscases normally balloon during the rainy season due to floods, farmers may also contract the disease if the water in the rice field has been infected with the leptospira bacteria.
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“In fact, many of the leptospirosis cases in Western Visayas reported this year involved patients who were working in farms and got exposed to mud infected with leptospira,” said Tayag in Filipino. Workers in slaughterhouses may also catch lep-
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tospirosis if they are exposed to infected animals. “Leptospirosis is acquired from animals with zoonotic disease,” he said. These are diseases that are naturally transmissible from vertebrate animals to humans and viceversa. “Animals as-
sociated with leptospirosis are rodents, dogs, as well as other large animals like goats,” Tayag said. “(The) DOH found out that the leptospirosis outbreak in Zamboanga was caused by infected goats.” Tayag said when people walk through flooded streets, the bacteria in the water will penetrate the body through small cuts in the legs—or in the eyes, when accidentally splashed with the infected water. “The bacteria normally attack the
liver and the kidney. It may also attack the brain or the lungs. The person may experience pulmonary hemorrhage and difficulty in breathing that could lead to death. This is very sudden, very serious,” said Tayag. The symptoms of leptopirosis are similar to those of the typical influenza. At the onset, the person may experience high fever that may last up to four to ten days, muscle pains, skin discoloration, and reddening eyes.
The patient may also experience difficulty in urinating. “By the time the patient is brought to the hospital, it may be too late,” Tagay warned. “At this stage, (the disease) may have already impaired the kidneys. The patient should receive dialysis treatment; otherwise, he could die in two days.” Tayag was guest in today’s Talking Points radio program aired over DZRB-Radyo ng Bayan and People’s Television-4. (RDA/ PCC/PIA-GHQ)
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“Barkada Kontra Droga” launched in Dipolog by Franklin P. Gumapon
ll of the 21 barangays of this city have pledged to help curb the proliferation of illegal drugs and support the “Barkada Kontra Droga” campaign spearheaded by the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB). A report from the City Information Office (CIO) said some 100 students and out-of-school youths attended the “Barkada Kontra Droga” seminar held at barangay Olingan in this city recently. The participants were made aware of the adverse effects of prohibited drugs on the users and their families. “A drug user is prone to committing 20
crimes,” said a police officer who served as one of the speakers. He added that most heinous crimes have been committed by drug users. Common causes why people turn to drugs are low self-esteem, sadness, des-
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peration, curiosity, peer pressure, hopelessness, and the lack of proper guidance from parents. “Barkada Kontra Droga” is a flagship program of DDB aimed at promoting people empowerment to lead a healthy lifestyle with the theme: “Preventing drug abuse before a young person begins experimenting.” (JPA/FPG/ PIA-ZN)
ZamboSur police investigators undergo criminal investigation course
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by Gideon C. Corgue
To enhance the investigative skills of police investigators, a 45-day Criminal Investigation Course (CIC) was conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP) on October 25-December 10, 2011 at the Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office’s conference room, Camp Abelon here.
Provincial director P/Sr. Supt. Jose Bayani L. Gucela said 61 police investigators from Zamboanga del Sur are expected to have competencies before they are assigned in an investigative assignments. “ They should possess full theoretical background in the conduct of investigation so that cases will be filed in the court will prosper,” Gucela explained.
PNP regional office 9’s course director Mark Azur said the conduct of the CIC was in compliance with the letter of instruction (LOI) from the national headquarters ordering all investigators to undergo formal training in criminal investigation noting that there are many incompetent investigators in the institution. The course, Azur said seeks to develop competent field investigators and to further hone their investigative capability especially those who possesses the skills to handle proper crime incident investigation resulting to its im-
mediate resolution. The course is divided in four (4) modules wherein the participants will be exposed in General Subjects, Laws and Jurisprudence, Investigative Procedures and Court Practices. Students must have to undergo 360 training hours to complete the course and be considered graduates,” Azur said. “The participants will also undergo a mock trial to evaluate their learning during the 45day course,” Azur added. Investigator SPO4 Juvic Aballe of ZSPPO’s investigation division said in his first 10 days
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the training he learned a lot of things specially in preparing investigation plan. “I appreciate Provincial Director Gucela and the regional investigation training staff for jointly conducting this course ,” Aballe said. “The course has provided us the complete and detailed knowledge in doing investigation in our respective area of responsibilities,” Aballe added. “This course greatly helped us (investigators)
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and the aspiring investigators who have not undergone formal training on criminal investigation,” Aballe said. Aballe said he started doing the work of an investigator since 1997 and admitted that he has no formal training saying that the skills that he acquired is only thru experience. “I underwent few seminars on investigation but not like this where the course is intensive and the lessons are comprehensive,” Aballe added. An aspiring investigator POI Kristyl Camansi of the ZSPPO said she is very grateful that she was given the opportunity to attend the training.
In more than a week, were trained on how to prepare investigation plan for us to make the investigation easy, Camansi said who has been with the service for one and a half year. “ In this course you will be given an idea and direction and how to conduct a speedy impartial investigation using appropriate steps so that the cases will be filed immediately in the court”, Camansi said. The CIC’s speakers/lecturers were from the PNP9’s investigation division, Crime Laboratory, Department of Justice, and Department of the Interior and Local Government. (JPA/ GCC/PIA9-Pagadian)
ALS to hold A & E Test on Sunday by Alfonso T. Ruda
t’s all systems go for the conduct of Accreditation and Equivalency Test on Sunday, November 6.
This was bared by Ms. Catalina Barinaga, Bureau of the Alternative Learning System (ALS), Dipolog City Schools Division. According to Ms. 22
Barinaga, 562 qualified registrants composed of 492 out-of-school youths and adults and 70 inmates from the Dipolog City Rehabilitation and
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Reformatory Center are slated to take the said examination. Of the 492 Out-ofschool youth and adult examinees, 429 will take
the secondary level while 63 will take the elementary level. On the other hand, of the 70 qualified inmates, 13 will take the
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elementary level while 57 others will try their luck in the secondary level. The examination for the out-of-school will be held at the Zamboanga del Norte National High School-Main Campus in Estaka, while the inmates will take their examination inside the city jail in Barangay Dicayas. Barinaga said, qualified to take the elementary level are those aging 11 years old during the examination date and 15 years old for those who will take the secondary
level. S u c c e s s f u l elementary level examinees will be eligible to enroll in high school while secondary level passers will be also eligible to enroll in college. Barinaga reminded the examinees to bring pencil(mongol 2) and admission slip and to be at the examination center before 7 o’clock in the morning. The examination will officially start at 7:30 in the morning. (JPA/ATR/ PIA9-Zambo Norte)
Dipolog joins National Filariasis Month celebration by Franklin P. Gumapon
he City Health Office (CHO) here is now spearheading the observance of the National Filariasis Month to increase public awareness on this parasitic
CHO bared that based on the results of nocturnal blood examinations conducted recently in the city’s 21 barangays, three individuals were found positive for filariasis. This prompted the CHO to require all the residents to take antifilarial drugs, which are given free by the public health centers. “Ex-
cept for those pregnant women and patients with hypertension or heart problem or liver disease, everybody including twoyear old children should take anti-filarial drugs to treat and/or protect him/ her from the disease,” said CHO chief Dr. Cecilio Siglos. Filariasis is a parasitic disease caused by thread-like filarial nema-
todes (roundworms) that are transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Elephantiasis, the disfiguring swelling of the legs and genital organs of humans, is a classic sign of late-stage disease. The annual observance of filariasis month is held every November. (JPAFPG/PIA-Zambo. Norte)
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Lanao officials hail PNoy’s “no all-out war” stand By Apipa Bagumbaran
O
fficials from the two Lanao provinces lauded the position of President Benigno S. Aquino III for not giving in to the call of some sectors to declare an all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) following the recent atrocities committed by some lawless elements in Zamboanga Sibugay, Basilan, and Lanao del Norte. “We salute the astuteness and leadership of His Excellency for upholding the peace talks in the midst of grief and anger, his rational and long-term strategic thinking is what we need to set us on path of 24
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enduring peace, stability and genuine progress,” Lanao del Sur 2nd District Representative Pangalian M. Balindong said. He said the primacy of the peace talks must be upheld stressing that
to wage a ‘total’ war is to take huge numbers of innocent lives and perpetuate the cycle of senseless violence, death, and destruction. “We must support pursuit operations against lawless elements, not against the MILF. The just response to aggression must be discriminate and must be directed only against unjust aggressors not against innocent people caught up in a war not of their making,” he further said. “There is no military solution to what is, at heart, a political and humanitarian problem. War cannot repair or repay decades of poverty and bad policy,” he added. On the other hand, Assemblyman Ziaur-Rahman Alonto-Adiong said neither suspension of the peace process nor the launching of massive military operations can contribute to the attainment of lasting peace in Mindanao, especially in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) where the Moros predominate. In his privilege speech during the 4th Regular Session of the 6th Regional Assembly, Adiong said suspending the peace talks can only
move both parties backward. Worse, it can only breed further mutual mistrust, apprehension and suspicion on both parties. “Suspension of peace talks open up the probability of making the process captive by vested interests while full military offensive would be counterproductive and would downgrade the insistence of the Aquino administration to initiate sustainable development in Muslim Mindanao considering that this current administration has yet to reach two years in office,” he further said. Meanwhile, an interfaith peace rally was held recently in Linamon town, Lanao del Norte to express collective sentiments for the peaceful resolution to the recent conflicts. The peace rally was participated in by various religious leaders, civil society organizations, municipal officials, and members of the Philippine Army. Musa Mohamad Sanguila, Director of Pakigdait, Inc., said the peace rally was a call of the interfaith leaders for people to unite and do Friday, November 4, 2011
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their part for Mindanao. preparing for the military option, it “We, as a community and people, will be the last recourse that they will are urging the government and the do. MILF to sit again and discuss the peace process and tell the constituency the real issues on the ground,” he further said. We are also requesting the ceasefire mechanism to do their part now because there are lot of internallydisplaced persons already, “pagod na kami sa gyera, (We are already tired of war),” he added. Brig. Gen. Roland Amarille, Asst. Division Commander of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division (1ID), PA, and Head of Task Force Makalintad, said they participated in the peace rally to show to the people that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is also interested for the peaceful resolution of the conflict, here. He said this is in line with the direction of the President to have a peaceful solution to the conflict explaining that while they are
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Lanao Norte celebrates Eid Al-Adha “beefsharing” festival on Nov. 6
TUBOD, Lanao del Norte – The Provincial Government will be celebrating the Eid Al-Adha through the Korban “Beef Sharing” Festival at the Provincial Trade Center, Sagadan, here, on Nov. 6, this year. Gov. Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo said Eid Al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is the second most momentous festival in the Muslim calendar. “This is an Islamic celebration to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to follow God’s
command to sacrifice his son Ishmael,” he said. Lanao del Norte, the Land of Beauty and Bounty, is the first province in the Philippines that will celebrate this very significant festivity through meat sharing with its constituents, the Governor also said.
2nd Regional Media Conference to focus on environment/disaster watch CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental -- The 2nd Regional Media Conference have been scheduled, this coming November 9 and 10, in Iligan City. Anchored on the theme: “Environment Watch: Reporting Disasters,” the event is organized by the Mindanao Media Forum, a group established in 2002 as a result of the Mindanao Media Summit, with Mindanews as the secretariat. For this summit, the organizers have invited the Voice of Mindanao, a non-government organization composed of youth and young
professionals, to be our Secretariat partner for Region 10. Last year, the conference was held in Zamboanga City and the convenors would like to build on the gains of that forum, Amy B. Cabusao of Mindanews said. Meanwhile, Frencie L. Carreon have been designated Northern Mindanao Regional Media Convenor. Friday, November 4, 2011
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Bukidnon businessmen vow stronger support for govt’s peace-building efforts by Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy
MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – The provincial government expects to see a closer cooperation to its peace-building efforts as top level executives of agro-industrial firms and business entities, here, vowed to support the local government units (LGUs) peace initiatives. This, as Gov. Alex Calingasan said he is determined to continue and strengthen the province’s peacebuilding role in Mindanao, in partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), to pursue the shared goal of just and lasting peace, during the 2-day Integrated Area Community Peace and Public Safety forum held in the city, recently. “We recognize that peace does not rest in the covenants and agreements alone. True and lasting peace must reside in the hearts of the people who must live, work and raise their families together across the country,” the Governor said. Nearly 100 participants from the business sector, the media, policy-makers, law enforcers, environmentalists, educators, health care workers, emergency service staff members and civil society organizations, among other groups, have taken steps to attain peace. Calingasan, meanwhile, reiterated that the provincial government extends financial assistance for the rebels who return to mainstream society, under the government’s Social Reintegration Program. Participants from business entities spelled out various peace portals, 28
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which they said their firms never had opened, as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) especially in areas where there is strong support for the insurgency movement. Believing these would help attain a just, comprehensive and lasting peace, they included in the CSR list the following: quality education for poor but gifted children through scholarship grants--with no cultural/religious biases, school feeding projects, helping communities generate livelihoods, recycling to generate jobs and reduce waste, land and shelter, free medical services, among other existing CSR programs. Provincial Administrator Provo Antipasado Jr., who leads the Bukidnon Integrated Peace and Public Safety Committee (BIPPSC), likewise, said this is a manifestation of the groups’ tireless commitment to peace in support to President Benigno S. Aquino III’s efforts to attain lasting peace in the country. “After all, the cause of peace cannot be the work of government alone. Peace comes from being able to contribute the best that we have, and all that we are, towards creating a world that supports everyone,” Antipasado said.
Lanao Norte, Malaybalay City LGU’s strengthen ties thru sports by Vincent N. Labial
The local government units of the Province of Lanao del Norte and Malaybalay City, recently, concluded their goodwill games at the City Covered Court of Malaybalay in Bukidnon. Aimed at strengthening the political and economic ties between the two (2) LGU’s, the Goodwill Games started recently, at the sprawling Mindanao Civic Center (MCC), here, in the capital town of the province. Among the sporting events included in the friendly matches were Basketball, Volleyball, Lawn Tennis, Badminton, Table Tennis, Tug-of-War and Sack Race. This initiative of Governor Khalid Dimaporo seeks to build stronger bonds between the cities and provinces in Region 10 to help further promote economic development in Northern Mindanao. “This year, we are starting the friendship games with our close ally, Malaybalay City,” Provincial Information Officer Lyndon Calica said. During the culmination of the games in Malaybalay, City Mayor Ignacio Zubiri of Malaybalay hosted the Mayor’s Night to thank the Lanao del Norte contingent for its active participation, as well, as commend the athletes from both LGUs for exhibiting good sportsmanship. Highlighting the Mayor’s Night were performances from the Bukidnon State University (BSU) chorale, BSU
and Malaybalay LGU dancers. “I hope everyone enjoyed their Malaybalay experience and come back, next year, for our grand celebration of the Kaamulan Festival,” Zubiri expressed. Lanao Norte LGU bagged the championship title for the following sporting events: Table Tennis, Tugof-War and Lawn Tennis, men and women, Sackrace, men and Volleyball, women. Meanwhile, Malaybalay LGU took home the winner’s trophy in the following games: Badminton, men and women, Basketball and Volleyball, men, as well, as Lawn Tennis and Sack Race, women.
Warm smiles after a heated battle. Malaybalay City Mayor Ignacio “Iñaki” Zubiri hugs Lanao del Norte Contingent Head Lyndon Calica after the final game of women’s volleyball during the recently-concluded Lanao del Norte-Malaybalay City Goodwill Games. Friday, November 4, 2011
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SSS tightens watch on delinquent employers by Mai Gevera Macapagat
N
ow doubling total cases filed than last year’s 456 cases against delinquent employers, the Social Security System urged members to keep proofs that may be used as evidence. Speaking before Davao media Thursday (November 3), SSS President and CEO Emilio de Quiros Jr. said the office is serious in running after delinquent employers as they may be imprisoned from 6 to 12 years on top of penalties and fines for violations of the Social Security Law. In the first three quarters of this year, SSS has filed 861 cases with a combined delinquency of P316.91 million including penalties of more than P150 million on unpaid contributions. Bulk of these cases filed in court comes mostly on non-remittance of contributions. De Quiros reiterated that under the Social Security Act of 1997, private sector employers are compulsorily covered starting on their first day of operations. It is mandatory for the em30
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ployer to report workers for coverage within 30 days since the start of employment and immediately remit contributions to avoid penalties. “ The best way for the employees to monitor if their contribution is remitted on a regular basis is to access the SSS website where they can check their SSS records.”, he said. Meanwhile, the SSS official announced that it has paid out a total of P3.3 billion for members in Southern Mindanao in this year’s three quarters. About P2.36 billion of which goes for benefits, P93,400 for pensioners, P300 million for retirement lump sum payments, and P152 million for funeral grants.
From January to August, the office has collected P2.75 billion in contributions from Southern Mindanao . Records showed that this contribution is 7 percent higher than the
same period last year. A total of P673 million was also released as salary loan disbursements from January to August this year. (PIA/Mai Gevera-Macapagat)
DAR pours in P10M assistance to develop farmers’ enterprises by Carina Cayon
DAVAO CITY- The provincial office of the Department of Agrarian Reform in the city has poured in around P10 million worth of assistance to its agrarian reform cooperatives for the improvement of the farmers’ enterprise.
under SARED’s enterprise and product development component with a project title Durian Processing Project – Village Level Processing Center Enhancement Program Batch II. The Davao Agricultural Ventures Corporation ARB Cooperative in Barangay Cawayan, Calinan District The assistance under DAR’s obtained a project assistance worth Sustainable Agribusiness and Rural over P1.445 million for the processEnterprise Development (SARED) ing of the coop’s pineapple crops into were provided to five cooperatives jam, vinegar and juice. mainly benefiting the agrarian re Another support with a project form beneficiaries in the city. cost of P680,831.54 was provided DAR Davao City legal division to the Subasta ARB Agricultural Cochief Atty. Glenn Pobre reported that operative at Barangay Subasta, also among SARED’s support is to develin Calinan for the processing of its op the coop’s enterprise and product banana produce into powder feed such as processing of fresh fruits like grade. durian, pineapple, banana and coco The Tungkalan Coconut Farmers nut of which by-products are mostly Cooperative in Barangay Tungkalan out in the market. of Toril District, received an assis Pobre said that the program has tance of P300,000 for the processprovided assistance of P518,479 to ing of coconut crops into coco sugar, the Tawan-tawan Multi-purpose Copolvoron, syrup and other coco delioperative at Barangay Tawan-tawan, cacies. Baguio District for its durian process The TCFC also obtained a projing business that yields durian yema, ect support worth P275,000 for the pastillas and jam products. production of its bio-organic fertil Said coop gained the assistance izer. Friday, November 4, 2011
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Also in Toril, the Progressive Highland Development Cooperative was able to improve its bakery and banana powder feed grade business with the help of the SARED assistance of P350,000 that was allocated for the bakery, and P850,000 for the banana powder. SARED has extended its program into micro financing that has reached to P5 million and catered to 500 ARBs covering the areas of Tugbok and Calinan Districts in Davao City . The program was coursed through the Micro-Agri Loan Product (MALP) with partner microfinance institution Baba’s Foundation, Inc. which DAR Davao City tapped to handle the project. DAR provincial agrarian reform officer Ernesto Tan said that the department has continued to provide support to its beneficiaries while completing its acquisition and distribution (LAD) program
Facts and figures 490,000
The number of tourists that visited the Davao Region from the period January to August 2011.
P10-million
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under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program with Extension and Reforms (CARPER) until 2014. In a recently-held forum on agrarian reform program in the city, DAR reported an accomplishment of 63 hectares in its LAD component for the period January to September this year. The figure represents 11 percent of the total target of 563 hectares for 2011. Tan said that aside from the SARED assistance, DAR’s support services also involve a program on Access Facilitation Access Enhancement Services (AFAES) such as farm-to-market roads, potable water system and solar power. He said the projects have funding from foreign-assisted projects, the Solar Power Technology Support to Agrarian Reform Communities, regular CARP fund and the Community-Managed Potable Water Supply Sanitation and Hygiene. (PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon/MGM)
The amount the Department of Agrarian Reform office in Davao City has allocated to to agrarian reform cooperatives for the improvement of their farmer’s enterprise
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DAR turns over P8.5M infra projects to DavOr farmers
DAR Regional Director Datu Yusoph B. Mama (2nd from right) together with Cong. Thelma Almario (2nd from left) lead the cutting of ribbon for the Improvement/Concreting of Junction National Highway to Talisay FMR at Barangay Talisay, San Isidro, Davao Oriental. With them are Municipal Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon (3rd from right) and PARO 2 Venchito Mandap (extreme right).
SAN ISIDRO, Davao Oriental – A total of P8.5M worth of infrastructure projects was given to LACAMBITA (La Union, Cambaleon, Bitaogan, Talisay) ARC (Agrarian Reform Community) by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) during the turnover ceremony held recently at San Isidro , Davao Oriental.
These projects are the Improvement/Concreting of Junction National Highway to Talisay Farm to Market Road (FMR) and the Improvement of Bangkok 1 to Purok Dahlia FMRimplemented under DAR ARISP III (Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Projects phase III) funded by JBIC (Japan Bank for International Corporation).
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About 11,000 ARBs benefited from these projects. They now regularly use these projects for farming and business ventures. With its completion, accessibility to the farms was provided and convenience in transporting agricultural and marine products significantly improved. DAR Regional Director Datu Yusoph B. Mama in his message emphasized that the main purpose of the government is to improve life’s quality of the farmers by increasing their income. He added this will realize to make their farm productive. Mama also stressed that farmers are one of the two important sectors in the country whose role is to produce food for the people. He said that with the projects given to them, people must value the blessings they
receive and feel the sincerity of the government implementers in doing their works. Meanwhile DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Venchito S. Mandap said that the national government strives to support the needs of the farmers. He added that the recipients of the projects must protect and take care as their contribution to sustain the farm to market roads given. Other personalities who graced the event were Cong. Thelma Almario, PARO I Saturnino Sibbaluca, San Isidro Municipal Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon and the four Barangay Captains of the ARC, Romeo Gamosa (La Union), Romeo Ruedas (Talisay), Reynaldo Penafiel (Cambaleon) and Alexander Sombilon (Bitaogan). (DAR-11/Elisa S. Dacula)
Did you know... That the prestigious international tennis competition the Davis Cup was named after Dwight Davis, a former American amateur tennis champion who founded the tournament. Dwight Davis later became the United States Governor General to the Philippines from 1929 to 1932. In 1931 he established the Davao Penal Colony or Dapecol now located in the town of Santo Tomas, Davao del Norte.
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DOLE releases P243,000 for water hyacinth handicraft production The regional office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE 12) her has recently released P243,060 to an organization the agency organized specifically for the production of handicrafts made of water hyacinths. The check was handed to Pusaw Handicraft Association based in Cota Friday, November 4, 2011
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bato City, whose members included participants trained by the Technical Education and Skills Authority – 12 (TESDA 12) and DOLE 12 as a contributing effort to solve the problem of water hyacinths that caused massive flooding in Cotabato City, Maguindanao, and nearby places in June. DOLE 12 Regional Director Ma. Gloria A. Tango said the amount was intended for materials and equipment that the association needed to start their business. Thirty-five selected participants underwent skills training on June 30 to July 4 at the TESDA Cotabato City District Office regarding the methods of processing water hyacinths, considered as menace, into environment-friendly products like bags, slippers, tissue holders, and other household and office items, among others. An expert from TESDA NCR came to Cotabato to train the local 36
participants. Another expert from NCR came to Cotabato on October 10 to 15 to teach the participants, who have been formally organized by DOLE Cotabato City Field Office Pusaw Handicraft Association, with additional skills on water hyacinth handicrafts. This time a personnel Willie Concepcion of DOLE 12 Technical Sup-
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port Services Division (TSSD) also provided inputs to develop their entrepreneurial skills. Tango after consultation with senior officers of the agency committed to support the project after having determined its viability as an incomegenerating, employment-generating, and environment-friendly project for Cotabato City.
is essential in their community development. TESDA Provincial Director Leonora Guiloreza also pledged the support of her agency by providing the necessary skills and training to continuously improve the quality The water hyacinth of the water hyahandicraft project was cinth handicraft that the identified as a core enassociation will produce. terprise of the CommuCEDP aims to ennity Enterprise Develop- hance and transform ment Program (CEDP) existing livelihood projfor the area. ects in the barangays During the opening into community enterceremony of the second training Tango emphasized the importance of enhancing the skills of each member as tool for their development. She said the enrichment of the skills of the members of Pusaw Handicraft Association in making handicrafts from the water hyacinth
prises and or set up community enterprises to be managed by community groups. The CEDP of Cotabato City is the fourth that has been launched in Region 12 (Soccsksargen Region). Launched earlier during the year were the CEDPs of Lambayong in Sultan Kudarat (Kakanin Products); Barangay Libas, Tantangan, South Cotabato (charcoal briquetting); and Barangay Bula, General Santos City (deep-sea fishing and mini-motor shop).(LCO/CDML/ DOLE 12/DEDoguiles/PIA 12)
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Youth group in Lebak town initiates development forum KORONADAL CITY -- To discuss issues that confront them, the Sangguniang Kabataan of Lebak town in Sultan Kudarat recently conducted a youth leaders’ forum and workshop at the Notre Dame of Salaman College. Invited to the forum-workshop organized by the town’s SK federation chair Simon Fresco III in cooperation with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)Sultan Kudarat Field Office were council officials of eight secondary schools in Lebak, namely: Notre Dame of Salaman College, Salaman Institute, Lebak Legislated National High School, E. Arcaño Memorial National High School, Mangundadatu National High School, Villamonte National High School, Tran National High School and Keytodac National High School. SK Lebak chairman for education Kahirup Ang said, the forum is a timely activity for leader like her. “It made us real38
ize the beauty of being good leaders and better citizen,” she said. She also encouraged the other youth leaders to be productive, innovative and selfsupporting to be able to reach their goals and the other youths in their respective areas. The forum focused on the issues that beset the in-school youths . Through the activity they were also provided chance to bring together ideas pertaining to ways of helping children in need of help. At the end of the forum participants prepared their respective plans of actions to combat problems they experience in their campuses. DOLE-SK Field Officer Arlene Bisnon said: the activity as an appropriate way to
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observe the Children’s Month “by giving attention to the dilemma of the youth specifically those from far-flung barangays and affording them chances to mingle, share views and experiences with other youth.” “ We look forward for a fruitful partnership with the LGU/SK and the academe from the Municipality of Lebak, ” she said. More activities for the youth in Lebak are being planned by the LGU, SK and DOLE’s field office. A meeting with the DOLE, LGU/SK and the Career Counselors Network – Lebak Team has been set lay out strategies to assist youth leaders in the area. Moreover, various activities are being lined-up to sustain the energy
of the youths from the said municipality. During the forum –workshop DOLE also distribute 51 checks amounting to P61,200 for the beneficiaries of the Special Program
for the Employment of Students (SPES) in Lebak. Lebak is one of the coastal municipalities of Sultan Kudarat. It can be reached via IsulanSen. Ninoy Aquino-Leb-
ak route which takes about nine hours or via Isulan-Upi-Lebak route which takes four hours. (Youthnited Group/ CDML/DOLE 12/DEDoguiles/PIA12)
South Cotabato to experience 11-hour power curtailment on Sunday By Dani Doguiles KORONADAL CITY -- South Cotabato 1 Electric Cooperative, Inc. (SOCOTECO 1) today announce an 11-hour brownout on Sunday. Santiago Tudio, SOCOTECO 1 general manager, said, “the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has scheduled a power shutdown on November 6 from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for the TacurongKoronadal-Surallah 69 KV transmission line.” SOCOTECO 1 covers the city of Koronadal and the municipalities of Banga, Norala, Surallah, Sto. Niño, Lake Sebu, T’boli, Tantangan, in South Cotabato and Lutayan in Sultan Kudarat prov-
ince. “This is to facilitate the Mindanao Project Division’s request for installation of scaffoldings in preparation for the last stringing portion and dismantling of the existing 138 KV DC Transmission Line Project on November 30. 2011,” Tudio explained. While the NGCP person-
nel will conduct their activity, the technical crew of SOCOTECO 1 will also implement preventive and maintenance activities. (PIA 12)
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GPH-MILF peace panels hold executive meeting in Kuala Lumpur By Perlita Changco
COTABATO CITY - No - Both panels of the GPH and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for an executive meeting, said MILF vice chair for political affairs Ghadzali Jaafar. According to Jaafar prior to this meeting, a third party facilitator Datu Tanku of Malaysia travelled to the country for separate talks with both the GPH and MILF peace panels which paved the way for the said executive meeting. With the executive meeting, Jaafar said the MILF central committee has issued instructions to its ground forces to respect the existing ceasefire agreement and the ongoing peace negotiations between the government and the rebel group. Jaafar said, the Bangsamoro Islamic 40
Armed Forces (BIAF) have been ordered to maintain its defensive position and no troop movements anywhere. He said, whatever issues and concerns discussed in the executive meeting including the Albarka and, it is hoped that both sides would be able to come up with an agreement for the resumption of the peace talks As this developed, more and more groups are calling for calm and sobriety rejecting persistent calls for an all out war against the MILF and expressing strong support to the all-out justice
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of President Benigno S. Aquino III against the lawless elements responsible in the killing of 19 young and promising soldiers in Basilan and Zamboanga Sibugay In a statement, the Philippine Center for Islam and Development (PCID) for one said it strongly spports Pres. Aquino’s call for calm and sobriety and to put primacy to the peace process while urging for an immediate investigation to pinpoint all the culprits in the atrocities and spare innocent civilians from armed hostilities. (pbchangco/PIA Cotabato City)
Committees finalize activities for MWOP 2011 by Jennifer P. Gaitano
T
he Caraga Conference for Peace and Development (CCPD), together with government agencies and private stakeholders in different committees, will finalize lined-up activities for this year’s Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) celebration on November 24-30.
www.piacaraga.blogspot.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-Caraga-Updates/165374590187484
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piacaraga@gmail.com pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph
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Anchored on the theme “Common Word between Us and You: Love of God, Love of Neighbor,” Butuan Bishop Juan de Dios Pueblos emphasized that this year’s celebration is aimed to unite Filipino people of different walks of life
in one aim, and that is – to continue to live in a peaceful life and with love for others. Working committees have agreed to have the kick-off program in Surigao City on November 24. Committees have also planned to con-
duct a Tree Planting and Cleaning for Peace which will be conducted along Buenavista, Agusan del Norte area while on November 26, stakeholders will be participating on the ‘Takbo Para sa Kapayapaan.’
CIDG-Caraga chief calls Butuanons’ support by Robert E. Roperos to solve crimes BUTUAN CITY-- Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Caraga Regional Chief PSupt Richie Posadas has called on the support of Butuanons to solve crimes. According to Posadas, people must support their office’s prevention activities and measures because of the growing number of crime incidents happening in the city. This, after series of shooting incidents and other crimes happening in the city where majority of 42
these crimes have remained unsolved. Posadas said one way of doing such is for the people to coordinate with local authorities whenever they find relevant information that will help resolving cases. “Through the information provided, local authorities can find
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ways in order to solve cases,” he added. The CIDG chief also said wearing of jewelries while walking in the streets is not practical since this would entice the criminals to perform criminal acts. He added when going to places with big amount of cash in
hand make sure that there is somebody who will accompany so that criminals will be intimidated to attack.
With these developments, Posadas hoped that with the coordination of the police force and oth-
er concerned government agencies and the people, crimes happened in the city will be solved.
CFO to hold “Pulong-Pulong” in Surigao by Annette Villaces
SURIGAO CITY -- The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) is set to hold a “Pulong-pulong sa Surigao” on Nov. 15 at Surigao City Auditorium, 3:30 P.M.
The activity seeks to assist prospective migrants in making decisions regarding setting abroad,as well as generate community involvement on migration concerns. It also aims to raise public awareness about various issues concerning migration, intermarriages and ex-
isting government policies and program directed against illegal recruitment and trafficking. Expected participants are the members of Sangguniang Kabataan, Baranggay officials, local civil registrar officers, marriage counselors, police officers, Public Employment Service
Officers, Municipal employees, nongovernment organization representatives, and potential migrants. The event is part of the CFO’s weeklong community education program on migration in the province of Surigao del Norte on November 14 to 16.
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Agusan del Sur naglabas ng pondo para palakasin ang produksyon ng pangingisda by David M. Suyao
AGUSAN DEL SUR –- Nagpalabas ng halos kalahating milyong pundo ang pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Agusan del Sur at ito ay madagdagan pa sa loob ng taong ito para palakasin ang produksyon ng pangingisda sa buong lalawigan.
Ayon sa ulat ng Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) ang pondo ay inilaan ng dati para sa programang “Intensified and Sustainable Development pf Aquaculture (ISDA) at ito ay naggaling sa 20 prosyentong provincial development fund (PDF) na nagkahalaga ng P786,000 para sa taong ito. “Ang tinutumbok naming ay makapagparami ng aabot sa 20 million na fingerlings para sa taong ito pero dahil sa 44
hindi maganda ang panahon, nakapag-produce na lamang kami ng mga 613,000 fingerlings at ito ay aming ipinamahagi sa 308 na mga magsasaka na mayroon ding fishpond sa buong lalawigan. Nakapagpagawa rin kami ng walong fish cages na umani na rin ng mahigit kumulang mga 550 kilos bilang pasiunang produksyon. Ang mga fish cages na ito ay aming i-turn over sa LOGUFAMCO para ito ay maalagaang mabuti at magkaroon ng mas malaking produksyon,” sabi ni Armando Lagumbay,
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Hepe ng PAO. Dagdag pa ni Lagumbay, nakapagpagawa rin ang PAO ng fishpond demo na nagkahalaga ng mahigit kumulang P300,000, gamit ang tinatawag na delayed feeding strategy sa mga bayan ng Esperanza at Sta. Josefa. “Sa kasalukuyan, habang pinagpatuloy namin ang proyektong ito, ang aming tanggapan ay gumastos na ng humigit kumulang mga P287,400 na. Ang proyektong ito ay inaasahang makapagpababa ng gastosin para sa pagkain ng tilapia na hindi maapektohan ang kanilang paglaki,” sabi ni Lagumbay
Pilipinas, sinuportahan ang resolusyon ng UNESCO sa mas malawak na paggamit ng internet tungo sa kaunlaran by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton
BUTUAN CITY –- Nakiisa ang Pilipinas sa mga bansa na sumusuporta sa paggamit ng internet upang mapabuti ang kaunlaran sa pamamagitan ng edukasyon, kultura, komunikasyon at impormasyon.
Ang Communication and Information Commission ng United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) ay nagpasa ng resolusyon kung saan
ay tumawag sa 193 miyembrong estado sa organisasyon upang ipamalas ang potensyal ng internet sa maari nitong maidulot na oportunidad sa kaunlaran sa edukasyon,
agham, kultura, komunikasyon at impormasyon. Ang resolusyon ay nagsilbing paalala sa patakarang pinagtibay ng UNESCO noong taong 2003 sa pagsulong
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ng “multilingualism” at ang pagkaroon ng pagkakataong maka-access sa cyberspace. Ang resolusyon ay nagsisilbi ring paalala sa pagsusulong sa kalayaan sa pagpapahayag, pagobserba sa etikal na mga prinsipyo at ang pagrespeto sa pagsasarilinan. Ayon kay Herminio “Sonny” Coloma,kalihim ng Presidential Communications Operations Office, ay malugod na tinanggap ng Pilipinas ang nasabing ulat at ang imbitasyon ng UNESCO sa mga miyembro nito sa pag-wari at pagsuri sa tungkulin at maidudulot ng internet sa pagpapabuti ng kaunlaran sa edukasyon, kultura, komunikasyon at impormasyon. 46
Si Coloma ang Chairman sa Committee on Information and Communication ng Philippine UNESCO National Commission. Sumali siya sa naganap na “36th Session of the UNESCO General Conference” noong Nobyermbre 1-3. Sinabi ni Coloma na ang lahat ng kalahok sa nasabing pagpupulong ay bahagi sa misyon sa pagsulong sa paggamit ng internet sa pagpapayaman ng kaalaman. Ang internet ay maaring magagamit sa pagsulong ng “transparency”, “accountability” at maayos na pamamalakad ng gobyerno o institusyon, dagdag pa ni Coloma. Sa Pilipinas,
Friday, November 4, 2011
ang administrasyong Aquino ay aktibong sumusulong sa paggamit ng bagong pamamahayag at social media networks sa pagbibigay ng “real-time” na balita at impormasyon kagaya ng sa ulat panahon at daloy ng trapiko. Binanggit ni Coloma na ang mga pangunahing sektor ng Pilipinas, lalong-lalo na ang mga kababaihan, mga kabataan, mga batang propesyonal at mga sundalo ay aktibong gumaganap sa online na pagpupulong na maaring makabuo ng pagkakaisa tungkol sa mga usaping pambayan. (MRA, ulat mula PCOO/PIACaraga)
Friday, November 4, 2011
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