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
ZATERS
First ever “Water Tubing” in Zamboanga City’s history.
Photo Credit: skyscrapercity.com
Cover Story :
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Vol. 1, No. 75
ZATERS conduct first ever “water tubing” in Zamboanga City history
By Jocelyn P. Alvarez
NATI O NAL
9 9 10 12
33 34
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17 runners from Caraga Region qualify for 42K MILO Marathon Nat’l Finals Solon led ground breaking of multi-purpose building
Philippine Red Cross to conduct a Million Volunteer Run Nutrition survey says Iodine Deficiency Disorder decreases, households using iodized salt increase
WESTERN Mindanao
24 26 27
Catholic school launches Community Involvement Program
City dad advises public to report, not tinker suspicious items
Armed men snatches businessman in Dipolog
Strengthen Security for big businesses; organize SCAA to act as guards - Military
Aquino to visit parents’ grave on Monday Aquino leads awarding of 2011 Child Friendly Municipalities and Cities
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DTI’s blueprint for industry development focuses on MSME promotion
Region 10 maintains largest economy in Mindanao due to strong agriculture output Pres. Aquino approves P72.11 billion worth of high impact projects to bolster economic growth - DBM PNP-10 Chief calls on RLECC -10 members to “Be vigilant!” Gov. Dimaporo hands over cash counterpart for KALAHI-CIDSS
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Aquino orders three cabinet secretaries to pursue government’s peace and order plan in Mindanao, provide assistance to displaced residents
NORTHERN Mindanao
28 30 31
contents
CARAGA Region
16 19 20 21
OCTOBER 28, 2011
SOUTHERN Mindanao
35 36 37 38
Army supports ‘all-out-justice’ policy Not all brgy. children councils functional-DILG RDR turns over P295-T to EastMinCom for hospital renovation Gov. RDR bares new BIMP-EAGA media org
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CENTRAL Mindanao
39 40 41 43 44
Dengue cases in region 12 decline 25 indigent patients to avail of the open heart surgery in Gensan
All systems go for the 4th National ICT Summit in Gensan Mekanisasyon hindi angkop sa lahat na sakahan ng South Cotabato Masaganang ani inaasahan ng South Cotabato sa Disyembre
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Cover Story ZATERS conduct fiFirst ever “water tubing” in Zamboanga City’s history
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by Jocelyn P. Alvarez
he Zamboanga Adventure Tourism and Eco Recreation Society (ZATERS) conducted an eco-adventure tourism that went down the history of Zamboanga as the first water rafting activity ever conducted in the history of Zamboanga . Friday, October 28, 2011
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our barangay for an adventure tourism) said Miss Jonalyn Guardacasa, barangay Victoria kagawad. The active lady kagawad expressed her gratitude to ZATERS for introducing their barangay to fellow Zamboangueños as one adventure tourism site. “Ta rindi kame gracias cun ustedes kay ya bisita ustedes diamun barangay. Pormedio de ustedes o hala pwede kame continua man develop el local turismo aki na barangay” (we thank you for visiting our barangay. Thru you, we hope we will be able to continue to propel our barangay tourism). She said. Victoria Barangay Chairman Feliciano Revillas also thank the participants for spending fathers’ day in their barangay and for conducting and participating in the barangays first big adventure tourism promotion.
With 67 adventure enthusiasts ages 10 to 50’s the participant were brought to Barangay Victoria for a “water tubing” and Siete Andanas (seven stages) waterfalls challenge, an adventure they will never forget “water tubing” is sort of a river rafting version where one has to sit or lie down and maneuver the tube while the water current cascades the tube down the stretch of the Victoria river in a one a half hour challenging and enjoyable ride. “This is the first time ya tene kame ansina de grande grupo bisita na diamun barangay for adventure tourism” The Siete Andanas ( 7 (this is the first time that we stages) Falls Challenge have this big a group visiting The participants were Friday, October 28, 2011
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also brought to trek, climb and conquer the Siete Andanas (7 stages) waterfalls, (also in Barangay Victoria) using physical and mental strength. “This is one great experience for all of us in the Department of Health (DOH) medical team. It’s the challenge and the climb that made it all worth it,” said one participant. “We really had a great time. Worth it talaga ang
pain..I had so many firsts that day and one of it is jumping in the falls, not once but three times! Thank you so much and hope to join you in your other activities” said Net Gaganting, one of the participants. Recently, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in cooperation with the SPELEO –Zamboanga trained some 30 local Victoria folks on tour guiding and mangrove planting in a 3-day seminar that made the barangay ready to handle local visitors/adventurers. ZATERS Donate Water Tubes to Brgy Victoria Barangay Victoria got some 25 “water tubes” from ZATERS as the group’s way of helping the barangay promote adventure tourism in their area. “We want to make Victoria as a model barangay that promotes adventure tourism activities for other barangays to fallow,” said Manny Paster, active board member of ZA-
TERS and President of SPELEO-Zamboanga. The water tubes donated will be used for adventure tourism activity like “water tubing” sort of a river rafting version where one has to sit or lie down and maneuver the tube while the water current cascades the tube down the stretch of the Victoria river in a one a half hour challenging and enjoyable ride. “Other cities like Davao
and General Santos are also into water tubing and we are introducing it here in Zambaonga, particularly here in Barangay Victoria so that the community may appreciate adventure tourism and how it can help their community and their economy.” Although the water tubes is not really that costly at only P250.00 per tube or a total of P6,250.00 for the 25 water tubes, “It is big deal for ZATERS and SPELEO that we are able to donate these tubes to Barangay Victoria because we are able to encourage the community to promote adventure tourism and in this way we are able to help the barangay generate income,” Paster said. Paster informed that they have trained some 30 local Victoria folks on tour guiding and mangrove planting in a 3-day seminar. “Local tourists can be confident that if they explore Victoria they will be assisted by abled and trained guides,” Paster assured. Friday, October 28, 2011
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Barangay Victoria is naturally blessed with caves, falls and river. The Community itself is slowly opening their doors to barangay-
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based tourism as they recognized the barangay’s wonders, a sure potential for adventure tourism.
Aquino to visit parents’ grave on Monday
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esident Benigno S. Aquino III and his sisters will pay respect to their parents, the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and former president Corazon Aquino on Monday, October 31 at the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City, a Palace official said on Friday. Friday, October 28, 2011
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The Chief Executive and his sisters preferred to go to the cemetery the day before the All Saints Day to have quality time to offer prayers for their parents and have private moments among themselves, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Friday. Lacierda said the influx of people visiting their departed loved ones on All
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Saints Day will make it difficult for the Chief Executive and his sisters to have private moments during the visit at the cemetery. “They would like to honor the memories of their parents peacefully and quietly and they feel that October 31 is the appropriate time to visit their parents,” Lacierda said. Lacierda assured that concerned government agencies started doing necessary preparations for the observance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day. As part of the
Ligtas na Undas plan, Lacierda said Transportation and Communications Secretary Manuel Roxas III ordered the deployment of a contingency force to ensure the safety of passengers and adequacy of transportation alternatives amid an expected heavy influx of travelers on All Saints Day. “The Philippine National Police is on full alert. We have made the necessary preparations to ensure peaceful and orderly observance of Undas,” he said. (JS)
Aquino leads awarding of 2011 Child Friendly Municipalities and Cities resident Benigno S. Aquino III led the awarding ceremonies for this year’s search for the Child Friendly Municipalities and Cities at Rizal Hall of Malacañang Palace Thursday.
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Friday, October 28, 2011
The Presidential Award for the Child Friendly Municipalities and Cities was initiated by the Council for the Welfare of Children and is considered as a self-assessment mechanism of the level of child-friendliness of a particular city or municipality. The award also recognizes local government units that put in place a “childfriendly” environment and uphold the rights of Filipino children to survival, development,
protection and participation. There are five categories for the Presidential Award, namely – 4th to 6th Class Municipality, 1st to 3rd Class Municipality, Component City, Independent Component City and Highly Urbanized City. The five winners who will each receive a Presidential Trophy and P300,000 cash prize are: the Municipality of Villaverde, Nueva Vizcaya; Mariveles, Bataan; Vigan
City, Ilocos Sur; Santiago City, Isabela; and Mandaluyong City, respectively. In his speech, President Aquino cited the five winners for putting the children’s welfare as a top priority of its governance that he said was in line with the National Government’s efforts to protect and uplift the lives of our children. He said the
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government’s poverty alleviation programs, namely: the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the national health program Philhealth has been
steadily been receiving funding to cover more beneficiaries. He said that as of end of September, some 2.23 million Filipino families are now benefiting from the 4Ps while 5.2 million families now have healthcare.
The President also stressed that the government has made education a top priority as P1-billion has been raised through the Counter-Parting for Classroom Construction Program to construct 1,300 classrooms nationwide. (RCK)
Aquino orders three cabinet secretaries to pursue government’s peace and order plan in Mindanao, provide assistance to displaced residents
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pon orders of President Benigno S. Aquino III, three concerned cabinet secretaries of the government are presently in Mindanao to attend to a series of meetings with the peace and order councils there, assess the situation and provide the needs of those who were displaced due to the military operations in the area. 12
Friday, October 28, 2011
In a press briefing at the Palace, Friday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita “Ging” Delez are presently in Zamboanga Sibugay to pursue the government’s peace and order plan and provide assistance to the locals in the affected area. “Secretaries Jesse Robredo, Dinky Soliman and Ging Delez are presently in Zamboanga Sibugay and they just came from Basilan where they had a fruitful meeting with the peace and order council,” Lacierda said. “Secretary Dinky Soliman gave two million pesos to the Basilan governor for
the cash for work program, as you know we are also providing assistance to displaced citizens there,” he continued. Apart from their meeting with the peace and order council in Zamboanga Sibugay, Lacierda bared that the government will also provide a total of ten million pesos covering the five municipalities for the ‘cash for work’ program that would involve those who will be tasked to rebuild and reconstruct the communities for the immediate return of the people affected in the said areas. Aside from the cash assistance, the government has also prepared at least one million food packs for the displaced families. “We are also facilitating the quick return of displaced families to their places of origin ensuring that the DSWD through the LGUs that their
needs are met … that is the reason why we have provided the cash for work program and also the relief assistance,” he added. Lacierda added that government is exerting efforts to ensure the involvement of local government units’ in the administration’s plan for peace and progress in Mindanao. Coinciding with these rebuilding efforts in the affected areas Lacierda assured that the government will still continue to pursue the lawless elements in the area, who are not necessarily members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The past week, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has launched operations against lawless elements and to secure the areas where skirmishes occurred. (JCL)
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P-noy Photos
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a copy of the book “Revolut Francis Pangilinan and TAYO Awards Foundation, Inc. president Pao ganizations (TAYO) awarding ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the M aims to recognize, reward, and encourage youth organizations all over t (Photo by: Rey Baniquet / MalacaĂąang Photo Bureau / PCOO).
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tionaries� from TAYO National Board of Judges chairman Senator olo Benigno Aquino IV during the 9th Ten Accomplished Youth OrMalacaùan Palace on Thursday (October 27). The search for TAYO the country with programs and projects that help their communities.
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17 runners from Caraga Region qualify for 42K MILO Marathon Nat’l Finals by Robert E. Roperos
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total of 17 runners from Caraga Region have qualified for the national finals during Sunday’s staging of the 35th Milo Marathon Butuan Elimination Race here.
www.piacaraga.blogspot.com
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http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-Caraga-Updates/165374590187484
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piacaraga@gmail.com pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph
According to event organizers, 16 male runners made it to the national finals while one female also qualified in the biggest marathon ever staged in the country. Alvirg Busa, 24 years old topped the list in the male category who clocked at 1:15:08, which made him in a qualifying time of 1:15:00, followed by Jordan Bacong whose time clocked at 1:17:44, and with a qualifying time of 1:30:00. Completing the list in the 18-34 age group with a qualifying time of 1:30:00 are Dionesio Belmonte Jr., clocked at 1:18:04 (3rd rank); Jestoni Sandinao
– 1:20:49 (4th); Jonel Monsit – 1:22:07 (5th); Johnny España – 1:22:09 (6th); Ariel Bagaporo – 1:25:40 (7th); Piniel Tajos – 1:25:41 (8th); and Ryan Celeres – 1:28:19 (9th). In the 35-39 age group, only two runners qualified with the qualifying time of 1:40:00. They are Sulpico Nicolas who clocked at 1:21:00 and Rene Anarille with 1:32:47 actual time. Also, two runners have qualified in the 4044 age group, qualifying time of 1:40:00. Edgardo Lapasigue and Anselmo Santiago clocked an actual time of 1:23:11 and 1:39:50, respectively. Ronilo Sandinao and Marlon Rogador
both qualified in the 45-49 age group. They have an actual time of 1:17:48 and 1:40:21, respectively. This group has a qualifying time of 1:45:00. In the 50-54 age group, Eutiquio Mahinay is the only runner who qualified with an actual time of 1:33:15 over the qualifying time which is 1:50:00. Meanwhile, Judelyn Miranda is the lone qualifier in the female category who clocked at 1:26:23. She will represent the region in the 18-34 age group. Qualifying time for this group is 1:35:00. Top ten in the men’s 3 kilometer run include: Rey Ulan-ulan,
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Reyven Tanquieng, Raymund Lopez, Jhonber Michael Labordo, Ervin Dagoc, Kem Windell Nazareno, Jhon Kic Deligero, Jemvel Villa, John Spencer Damarillos, and Mark Roquite. For women, Joan Rose Nicolas topped the list followed by Ruby Joy Lopez, Arlyn Kate Cubillas, Rita Mae Aclo Azarcon, Rubelyn Gamelo, Dynamae Malunas, Hannah Gia Lingala, Marifel Buron, Marvilyn Rogador, and Geniva Deligero. For the 5 kilometer run in the men’s category, top ten are as follows: Juanito Mahinay, Meruin Lomarquez, Chris Aclo, Miguel Reponoya, Ryan Mark Anciano, Remigo
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Sili Jr., Eduardo Lape, Jumar Lumimbay, Juniephing Tobias, and Elias Tabac. Top ten in the women division include: Manilyn Taladoc, Chen May Dagcuta, Josephine Lumimbay, Cindy Claire Maghuyop, Jelly Mae Paderes, Angelica Duranggo, Mery Cris Moron, Candy Lipio, Anna Lauren Lumimbay, and Mitzie Pelegrin. Top ten placers in the 10 kilometer run is composed of Glendon Sandinao, Aldrin Batac, Kim Balinton, Rico Roquite, Nilo Nicolas, Romnick Lumindas, Marvin Lubrico, Edmund Mannaloq, España Cultura, and Noel Honorio in the male division. In the
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same category (female division), Jennifer Saguran lead the five qualifiers, followed by Fritzie Cabahug, Ma. Louella Yu, Myrna Renesas, and Jp Bonnie Frances Pablo. On Sunday, October 29, runners in General Santos City will try their luck as the country’s most popular and biggest marathon event will get qualifiers in the said area and the neighboring provinces to the national level. The staging of the 35th Milo National Marathon will be held on December 11, 2011 in Metro Manila.
Solon led ground breaking of multi-purpose building by David M. Suyao AGUSAN DEL SUR – Cong. Evelyn “Bebs” Plaza Mellana recently led the ground breaking of a multi-purpose building in Barangay Taglikid, Bayugan 2, San Francisco Agusan del Sur in time with the Children’s Month celebration. The lady solon set aside some P500,000 for the construction of the said MP building. Antonio Baldecorza, chairman of Answering the Cry of the People (ANCOP) otherwise known as Gawad Kalinga, whose members are mostly couples for Christ, said they requested the building in order to have a proper place where people can convene and discuss their problems and present their ideas for the development of their
community and the government. “We are looking forward that this multi-purpose building that Cong. Bebs Mellana had constructed for us will serve not only the adults, but also for the children, and other people who need the shelter for the community’s benefit. Because of this, we promise to take care of the building, and take charge of any improvement so that it can be of service for our children in the future,” Baldecorza
said. San Francisco Mayor Jenny de Asis who were with Cong. Mellana said the ground breaking of the multi-purpose building is so timely that the children’s month is being celebrated. “With this very special celebration and special project, we can all expect that everything connected to this in the future will bring joy and prosperity to the people of Taglikid,” Mayor de Asis said.
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Philippine Red Cross to conduct a Million Volunteer Run by: Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton BUTUAN CITY – Raring to make the Philippines as the Red Cross volunteer capital of the world, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) will spearhead a Million Volunteer Run (MVR).
According to Teodoro R. Cairo, Chapter Administrator of PRC Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter, 2011 is the International Year of Volunteers as declared by the United Nations. Also, 2011 is the 10th anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers and December 5 is the celebration of International Volunteer Day. With this, the MVR was
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decided to be held on Sunday, December 4. Just recently, the PRC Agusan del NorteButuan City Chapter Board of Directors convened to discuss the preparation and promotion of the Million Volunteer Run. The said activity will start from the Butuan City Hall going to the Agusan del Norte Provincial Capitol. The objectives of MRV are to heighten public awareness to reduce disaster risks and vulnerability of the community in the interest of saving lives; to build an army of 1+43 humanitarian soldiers in every barangay of the country who will respond to disasters, donate blood, and alleviate human suffering; and to train and
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equip the Red Cross 143 Volunteers by way of Disaster Risk Prevention. Cairo hopes that “the MRV will break all the records as the largest run ever staged in the history of the world. He encourages the companies to join the said activity. “The Filipinos will define the face of volunteerism by doing something that no other country has done”, Cairo added. “Red Cross is the foremost humanitarian organization in the world. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies have a 152-year history, the oldest and biggest organization in the world with nearly 100 million volunteers in 187 national societies nationwide”, said Cairo.
Nutrition survey says Iodine Deficiency Disorder decreases, households using iodized salt increase by:Czarina Teresita S. Martinez
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he 7th National Nutrition Survey (NNS) conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) revealed that the percentage of households using iodized salt is increasing, while the median urinary iodine excretion (UIE) among 6-12 year old children is within the goal set by the International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorder (ICCIDD).
Nationwide salt iodization started in 1995, when the enactment of Republic Act No. 8172, otherwise known as an “Act Promoting Salt Iodization Nationwide (ASIN)� was signed into law. The law was a major effort of the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines to end the prevailing iodine deficiency
disorders (IDD) among Filipinos. Fifteen years hence, the Philippines is reaping the positive results of the concerted action to pursue a common agenda for improved nutrition of every Filipino. According to Ms. Leah A. Perlas, Supervising Science Research Specialist of the FNRIDOST, the previous survey showed that IDD, as measured by median UIE among children 6-12 years old, has significantly shifted from mild deficiency in 1998, to adequate level in 2003, and to optimal level in 2008. However, the results of the 7th NNS showed that IDD still remains a public health
problem among pregnant women, which calls for a review of programs toward the IDD control among pregnant women, Ms. Perlas added. The 2002 Philippine Committee on the Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intakes (RENI) says that pregnant women need 200 micrograms of iodine per day. The iodine requirement is higher during pregnancy to provide for the needs of the fetus and to compensate for increased loss of iodine in the urine. The lack of iodine in the diet in pregnant women may cause complications or even miscarriage. During pregnancy, IDD may develop adverse consequences on
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fetal development, such as mental retardation, low birth weight, and neuro-muscular abnormalities. IDD may also develop among children and adults due to the lack of iodine in the diet. The most visible physical manifestation of IDD among adults is an enlarged thyroid. The FNRI-DOST recommends includ-
ing food rich in iodine in the daily meals like fish, shellfish, and seaweeds. However, the iodine content of plants and animals varies depending on the environment to which they are grown. Thus, iodized salt and processed food containing iodized salt are also recommended as good sources of iodine. For more information on food and nutri-
tion, contact Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City. E-mail: mcv@fnri.dost.gov.ph or mar_v_c@yahoo. com Telefax: 837-2934 and 827-3164, or call: 8372071 local 2296 or visit our website: http:// www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.
Strengthen Security for big businesses; organize SCAA to act as guards - Military by Alex Cabardo
AGUSAN DEL SUR-- The first South Caraga Security Forum was convened yesterday in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur by officials of big companies, police and army top rank officers and local government officials in the province. According to the military and police, the meeting aimed to make the officials and investors understand their responsibilities in issues relating to security. Specifically, the forum tackled the threat posed by terrorists and how to avoid incidents that happened in Barangay Hayanggabon, Claver, Surigao del Norte 22
from happening also in Agusan del Sur and the rest of Caraga Region. “It is an open book and everybody knows that big companies all over the region are made the milking cow of the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People’s Army and the National Democratic Front (CPPNPA-NDF). But because (communist
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rebels) increased their demand from 3 percent to 5 percent lately, some business establishment can no longer afford to give their extortion demand,” Col. Romeo Gan, 401st Brigade Commander said. “That is the reason why they show their forces and burn the equipments in order to sow terror that will threaten
the investors so that they will be forced to give,” he said. In order to ensure the security and safety of the big companies against the threat of the communists, the military suggested that special civilian armed auxiliary (SCAA) be organized and trained in order to augment the security forces of the mining and plantation companies in Caraga region. Lt. Col. Danilo Benavidez, Battalion Commander of the 75th Infantry Battalion also made it clear that the
SCAA will not be used to sow terror and abuses because they will be under the direct supervision of the army. “As battalion commander of the 75th IB, it is my duty and responsibility to supervise the SCAA and to make sure that our command and control over them will all the time be imposed to make sure they will not be misguided,” Col. Benavidez said. Col. Gan also assured the people that the army is always alert and ready in order to safeguard the investors, the
business sector and the Filipino people against any terroristic activities of the CNN because big companies investing here will really solve the unemployment problem. “We cannot set aside the security and safety of the business firms nationwide because they represent the whole country. Whatever happened to them will surely affect the economy and stability of our country and that is where we are giving our focus,” Col. Gan said.
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Catholic school launches Community Involvement Program by Gideon C. Corgue
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he institution’s role is not only to teach and provide the youth proper education and promote their spiritual aspect but to promote as well their virtues of being civil servants and to share the gifts, time and blessings to their fellowmen,” said Edwin Colubio, coordinator of Community Involvement Program (CIP) of the catholic school – St. Columban College (SCC) during the program launching on Wednesday in Upper Sibatang here. Colubio in his message said the CIP enhances community awareness among students, faculty, administration and staff, direct and motivate them toward community service and provide opportunities for students to perform their role as agents of social transformation through their interac24
tion with the community. In this program, Delubio said SCC will
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help improve the quality of life of the people thru their programs on health, education, environment, spirituality and productivity towards an integrated holistic and sustainable development. “We will initiate tree planting activity, introduce proper waste segregation,
provide free health services , distribute school supplies to preschool children, conduct Holy mass, recollection and giving of rosaries and religious relics, conduct also human rights seminar and peace dialogue, etc.,” Colubio explained. Delubio said the CIP also promotes spirit of ‘Bayanihan and hospitalty’ between the SCC and the residents of the barangay. SCC president Rev. Fr. Gilbert Hingone encouraged the active support and cooperation of the barangay officials, Elementary School teachers, Gagmay Simbahan
sa Katilingban (GSK) leaders, and the residents in implementing the program saying that the program will not be successful without their cooperation. Guingone values the importance of partnership between the school and barangay adding that the one who will benefit most of the program are their children. Barangay chairman Silvino Ortega thanked the SCC administration for choos-
ing their barangay as the pilot area of the program. “Nalipay kami ug dako nga sa 54 ka mga barangay sa dakbayan ang amo pa gyud nga barangay ang napili nga kapahigayonan ning maong programa ( We are grateful that of the 54 barangays in the city, our barangay was chosen to be the pilot area of the program),” Ortega happily said. A memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing ceremony between the SCC and barangay officials followed after the short program.
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Rev. Father Guingone, Vice President for Finance Fr. Bellstar Ediang, and Vice Pres-
ident for Academics Nora Agustero represented SCC and barangay chairman Ortega
represented the barangay council inked the singning of MOA. (JPA/GCC/PIA9-Pagadian)
City dad advises public to report, not tinker by Jocelyn P. Alvarez suspicious items
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“uriosity kills the cat,” a known saying, but who thought it will hold true to 19 year old Lodeto Ybañez who was instantly killed after he tinkered with an unattended package which exploded and resulted to his death while injuring several others. City Mayor Celso Lobregat appealed yesterday to the public to immediately report to authorities any suspicious looking persons, items or packages and not to tinker with it to shun from trouble or problem that might arise from it. The “call” was made fallowing the explosion incident of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) that rocked the “carenderia” (eatery) in barangay Sangali Wednesday night that 26
killed the young Lodeto and injured six others. Police report revealed, the “package” was left unattended under one of the tables in the eatery owned by Sangali Barangay chairman Leopoldo Toribio. Zamboanga City P/Supt. Edwin De Ocampo confirmed that his men were able to detonate three other IEDs in the same barangay that were found few meters apart from the blast site. City Information
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Officer Sheila Covarrubias said the mayor also reiterated his call for the public to be extra vigilant and alert “as he underscored the need for everybody’s cooperation and assistance to avert lawlessness.” Public are advise to report any suspicious looking package or items by calling or texting at cellphone (CP) number 09063680749 or emergency hotline 117 or 166. As the mayor made his call to public to re
port such cases to the above numbers, he also plead not to overburden the authorities by making prank calls. The hotline will be
under the care of the operations center of the City Police Office under Col. de Ocampo. (JPA/ PIA9-Zambo City)
Armed men snatches businessman in by Franklin P. Gumapon Dipolog
R
esidents got shocked by the kidnapping of a businessman here yesterday morning.
A certain Frank Oliver Lim, 32, single and a poultry magnate was abducted by five unidentified armed men when he was about to enter the gate of his poultry farm in barangay Gulayon this city. The victim and his younger brother, John Patrick, just arrived at the farm house from a bank in the city when the suspects aboard a green izusu vehicle accosted the siblings. His younger brother managed to escape
from the abductors. Provincial Director PSSupt. Ulpiano Lopez told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that the blocking forces of military and police were immediately deployed to all the exit points to rescue the victim. But, as of this writing the police have no lead yet as to where the kidnappers go and bring the victim. The Lim family has not yet received any call from the kidnappers but appealed to them not
to harm the victim. This was the second kidnapping incident in the city since the abduction in the 1990s of Atty. Maridol M. Liong and her daughter who were released after several months. The incident has engendered some fear among the residents because kidnapping is an unusual thing to happen in this most peaceful place in the country. (JPA/FPG/ PIA-Zambo. Norte)
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T
DTI’s blueprint for industry development focuses on MSME promotion By Apipa Bagumbaran ment.
he Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will further push for the promotion of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME’s) recognizing its important role in industry developinclusive growth, we will have to bring the development to the countryside, thus, one of the pipeline initiatives of the DTI is to create employment in the rural areas by focusing on the development and promotion of these enterprises,” she said.
“The department will vigorously promote the tourism business, agribusiness, and handicrafts which are primarily MSMEs,” announced DTI Assistant Secretary Felicitas AgoncilloReyes during the recent mid-year economic briefing domestic roadshow at the Platinum Ballroom of Mallbery Suites Business Hotel, here.
Among the strategies initiated by DTI to develop these enterprises are the formulation of the National SME Development Plan (SMEDP) for 2011-2016 which was approved by the MSME Development Council in May, this year. Aimed at addressing the key challenges and constraints that prevents the MSME sector from realizing its full potential and boosting the country’s industrial growth, the SMEDP lays out the overall framework to guide the formulation of action plans towards a more harmonized approach to MSME development.
“For us to really follow the President Aquino’s directive of 28
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In line with development of
these enterprises, DTI has implemented the Rural Micro-Enterprise Promotion Program (RuMEPP) which continues to reduce rural poverty through increased economic development and job creation for poor households. So far, the program “We will also continue to has served 38,726 micro enterprises as of May 31, this year, push for growth in key big industry winners, such as, electronics, Reyes said. manufacturing industry, information communications technology Also, the DTI has created a and marketing plan that would facilitate and business process outsourcing e-transactions. In the first quarter (ICT/BPO) industry, shipbuilding/ of 2011, a total of 62 MSMEs were ship repair/steel fabrication industry, enrolled in this platform and a mining and plantation, among others,” complimentary web-mail is also being she added. created to accommodate more MSMEs to join in the e-marketing initiative. Meanwhile, Reyes has underscored the improvement in the Aside from the development country’s business environment. and promotion of these enterprises, Reyes said DTI’s blueprint for industry “The favorable business development also include the rebirth environment resulted in an increase of the One-Town One-Product (OTOP) of over 70 percent in investment sector, the bamboo industry, and other approval of investment promotion industries with large scale potentials, agencies as of end-August 2011,” she such as, palm oil, rubber, corn and said. corn farming. She further cited that the She, further, said OTOP promoted country’s exports continued to exhibit countryside development by assisting positive growth of 3.3 percent as of MSME in the production, promotion, end-July despite the recent calamity and marketing of locally produced in Japan and the weakness in the US goods and services. and European markets.
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Region 10 maintains largest economy in Mindanao due to strong agriculture output By: Peleta B. Abejo
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental - Region 10’s economy remained the largest in Mindanao accounting for about 28 percent of the annual gross domestic product (GDP) of the island. “This was relatively due to strong agriculture output which cushioned the declining performance of the services and industry sectors, in the crisis years,” Engr. Leon M. Dacanay, Jr., Regional Director of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), regional 10, said.
Exports increased by about 26 percent, investment inflow picked up, increases in tax and customs collections were sustained, energy sales made a rebound indicative of the vibrancy of the industry and business sector, and many other indicators showing positive performances.
Dacanay presented Northern Mindanao’s economic situation and the region’s development plans and priorities during the Mid-Year Philippine Economic Briefing (PEB) led by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), last October 24, in city.
Over the next six (6) years, the region shall continue to present itself as the most competitive, efficient and attractive transhipment hub and venue for industrial ventures.
“It shall assert its role as a gateway and industrial core and trade He said while economic growth center in the south,” Dacanay said. lost momentum during the crisis Attended by more than 200 years, Northern Mindanao is among the few regions in the country which enabled the national economy to escape recession. “As of the first two quarters of 2011, leading indicators point to a modest improvement of the economy. Production in the agriculture sector mostly increased,” the NEDA-10 Director said. 30
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participants, the PEB focused on communicating the government’s initiatives towards good economic governance anchored on a strategic development framework of improving transparency and accountability, strengthening the macroeconomy, financial and capital mobilization, and facilitating infrastructure development and the results achieved so far.
to be the country’s growth driver has unexpectedly not taken off, massive bank closures.
The needed structural reforms to attract new players to invest in power generation, rationalizing the terminal handling charges imposed by international shipping lines on Philippine exports, full implementation of RA 9178 otherwise known as the Reactors from the private sector Barangay Micro Business Enterprises appreciated the presentation by the Act and peace and order situation in economic managers on the Philippine Mindanao. economic situation. Economic managers present However, they also called for during the PEB were BSP Director government’s strong political will for Antonio Cintura, Director Rolando immediate and urgent reforms on the Toledo of the Department of Budget and following seven (7) concerns, among Management (DBM), Undersecretary others: Gil Beltran of the Department of Finance (DOF), and Assistant Secretary Worsening conditions and Felicitas Agoncillo-Reyes of the Board stringent requirements of doing of Investment Department of Trade business in the country, the private- and Industry (BOI-DTI). (NEDA-10) public partnership which is envisioned
Pres. Aquino approves P72.11 billion worth of high impact projects to bolster economic growth - DBM By Apipa Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental - President Benigno S. Aquino III has approved the Disbursement Acceleration Plan (DAP) for around 22 programs and projects of the government worth P72.11-billion. This was announced by Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Director Rolando Toledo, during the recent Philippine
Economic Briefing (PEB) Domestic Road Show held in the city initiated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Friday, October 28, 2011
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“Implementation of these high impact projects will be undertaken in order to push economic growth in light of the global slowdown and the onslaught of recent calamities,” Toledo said.
As an example, he cited the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) who adopted the philosophy of the right project, with the right cost, and right quality in the implementation of infrastructure projects.
Toledo was with five (5) other senior officials from the country’s “But rest assured that economic cluster agencies during the government will fast-track the second leg of the mid-year PEB disbursement for the last quarter of domestic roadshow. this year for the country to achieve the target economic growth of 4.5 During the briefing, Toledo percent,” he added. acknowledged that there was underspending for projects, particularly, on Meanwhile, among the highthe part of the government, due to impact projects selected for inclusion the reforms being implemented. in the DAP are the following: He explained that the slowdown in government spending was to make sure that each of the projects that will be implemented was of good quality and of good price stressing this type of spending as a lot more efficient.
Critical public works and agriculture infrastructure projects, rehabilitation of rail systems and additional support funding for the local government units (LGUs) projects that support peace efforts. Housing, relocation and resettlement He said it is a policy of the projects, healthcare insurance government to review again the for indigents, human resource programs and projects before it will development training and projects for be implemented. improved weather forecasting.
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PNP-10 Chief calls on RLECC -10 members to “Be vigilant!” By: Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
CAMP ALAGAR, Cagayan de Oro City – P/Chief Supt. Jufel C. Adriatico has called on the members of the Regional Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee (RLECC) of Northern Mindanao to maintain their vigilance in the wake of threats from the Communist Party of the Philippines/National Democratic Front/New People’s Army (CNN) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “In fact, we should not lower our guards but act as one in thwarting the moves of these groups to create havoc and prevent the occurrence of crimes in our communities,” he said during yesterday’s meeting of RLECC10, at the PNP-10 Multi-Purpose Hall, here. It was Adriatico’s first meeting with the committee, after more than a month in his post as Regional Director of the Philippine National Police, region 10 (PNP-10), replacing P/Chief Supt. Conrado E. Laza who retired. “I have placed PNP-10 in full alert status since I assumed office, last Sept. 23, and made it a mandate for all the PNP units in the region to strengthen their base in the localities, so that the atrocities done by the CNN and the MILF, these past few months can not be repeated,” he said. Among these atrocities were the raid of the Municipal Police Station in Medina, Misamis Oriental, the kidnapping of four (4) officers of
the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and those of the six (6) peddlers from Tubigan, Mis. Or. in the outskirts of Bukidnon, and the recent ambush of the 5th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, troops in Sultan Naga Dimaporo (SND) in Lanao del Norte. Likewise, he has ordered a “no nonsense” uprooting of the reported marijuana plantation in some areas of Bukidnon, which could have been the handiwork of the NPA to augment their finances due to their difficulty in collection of taxes from the people. Meanwhile, he has ordered the strict implementation of the “No Helmet, No Travel,” policy under the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009, saying this is a “life-saving” policy that all the law enforcement agencies, and not only the PNP, need to support. He said 95 percent of fatal injuries in the road involving motorcycle riders was caused by the non-wearing of helmets. Friday, October 28, 2011
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“We would not stop at looking only at the helmets. We have to check if these helmets are fastened and worn correctly or if it meets the requirements of safe travel for these riders,” he said. Along with this are also the
policy of the “No Seatbelt, No Travel” and the “No Plate, No Travel” for all commuters, which a composite team of law enforcers from the PNP, Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) will implement during the Nov.1 celebration of the “Undas,” he said.
Gov. Dimaporo hands over cash counterpart for KALAHI-CIDSS by: Noemi Marla C. Cinco
TUBOD, Lanao del Norte – Gov. Mohammad Khalid Dimaporo of this province has handed over Php3.15 million as provincial counterpart for the KALAHI-CIDSS Makamasang Tugon (MT) project implementation in the towns of Sapad and Salvador. This amount actually represents 30 percent counterpart of the grant given to the said municipalities for the KALAHI- CIDSS-MT, as part of the principles of accountability towards the sub-project. “As far as the counterpart is concerned, the province is always ready to shoulder 50 percent of the total counterpart. I want to challenge all the municipalities in Lanao del Norte to implement projects to develop their municipalities,” Gov. Dimaporo said. Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan –Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services or KALAHI-CIDSS is a community driven development (CDD) project and is one of the poverty reduction projects 34
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of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). It aims to empower communities, enhance local governance and reduce poverty by providing seed funds for infrastructure projects funded by World Bank (WB). The KALAHI-CIDSS Makamasang Tugon modality is an initiative to integrate the CDD approach of KALAHI-CIDSS to the local planning and investment programming process of the local government unit (LGU). This is an incentive to performing KALAHI-CIDSS areas, making the LGU as the lead implementers of the project. (DSWD
Army supports ‘all-out-justice’ policy by Mai Gevera-Macapagat The military welcomed such policy as a good manifestation of the government to pursue peace despite the incident in Al-Barka. Contrary to some reports that the military force is one in pushing for an “all out war” policy, Tabaquero clarified that the army remains consistent to its campaign by way of peace and development efforts. An all out war is rather a contradiction to what the military and the present administration has started pushing for. astern Mindanao Commander Lt. “ An all out war is never a real Gen. Arthur Tabaquero denied resolution. We are only after our target ports of a demoralized army following the death of the 19 soldiers in Al-Barka, perpetrators, those we have identified as criminal personalities,” he Basilan last week. explained. He, although admitted that he After receiving the directive and his men were saddened with from President Aquino, Tabaquero what happened but they rather took immediately sent radio messages to it as a normal feeling towards the his area commanders, directed them plight of their co-soldiers. the actions to be done, and the spe “ But we must move on. We cific information to be given out to have a mission to fulfill and a job to the soldiers. do,” this he said discrediting issues “ A decision has been made by that the military is severely affected the President, we in the Armed Forcby the incident and disappointed es will follow,” Tabaquero stressed. with the “all out justice” policy imThe EastMinCom also assured the posed by President Benigno Aquino public within the area of responsibilIII. ity that such incident is isolated in
E
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over is not likely to happen. Commander of 602 Battalion Lt. General Cesar Sedillo believed that chances of a similar incident to happen in this area is remote as most of the field commanders have been closely engaging with the communities. Nevertheless, the AFP recognizes the fact that threats are present everywhere and so they prepared contingency measures to back up unexpected incidents. Tabaquero asked the public to help the military in this aspect by way
of gathering information that could help the authorities control potential danger from happening. Learning from the Al-Barka incident last week, the AFP has strengthened their resolve for the importance of coordination to prevent misunderstanding and conflict that may arise when they operate. T his, according to Tabaquero, could have been overlooked when the group of 19 soldiers conducted an operation in Basilan. (PIA/Mai Gevera-Macapagat)
Not all brgy. children councils functionalDILG DAVAO CITY - The Department of Interior and Local Government in Region XI has reported that not all Barangay Council for the Protection of Children or BCPCs are functional.
area and those supported by the UNICEF Country Program for Children (CPC), which mandates that all barangays under its CPC programme should have working BCPCs. Limbaro estimates these barangays to number at least 78 out of the total 182 DILG Director for Davao Merilo barangays in Davao City. Limbaro said that the Department Among the indicators of active has been consistent in urging the ba- rangays to strengthe their BCPCs. He BCPCs include the holding of regular meetings, the appropriation of re said that three memorandums has already been issued by past DILG secretaries about the councils. The last memorandum was in 2006 which created the BCPC monitoring system. Limbaro said that although all barangays have BCPCs in placed in accordance with the law. There is a problem with their functionality. He said that in Davao City functioning BCPCs are found in the poblacion 36
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sources and budget for the council and the presence and designation of a focal person for child rights issues and concerns in the barangay. The BCPC is a multi-sectoral grassroots body designed to address issues and concerns regarding child rights in a barangay. Among the members of the BCPC include a child representative, the barangay chairman, A barangay kagawad preferably the chairman of the council’s committee on family relations, the president of the Parents Teachers Association, the Sannguniang Kabataan Chairman, a Non-Government Organization representative, a barangay health worker, barangay nutrition scholar and tanod (watchman) or any person deemed needed by the council. Limbaro said that the BCPC doesn’t rely on the efforts of the ba-
rangay alone but also with its members and partners. For their part, Elisa Apit of the Kamalayan Development Foundation, an NGO working for child rights in Davao City’s barangays they are pushing for the recognition of Barangay Children Associations or BCA as a body that would work for the continued functioning of the BCPCs. Currently they are advocating for the institutionalization of the BCA particularly through a executive order that could be signed by the City Mayor. Apit said that BCAs would address children’s rights issues particularly those who are not yet covered by the Sangguniang Kabataan. The issue of the BCPCs is one of the pressing concerns discussed during the soon-to-be concluded Children’s Month celebration . (PIA/RG Alama)
RDR turns over P295-T to EastMinCom for hospital renovation TAGUM CITY- Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo P. del Rosario turned over this morning P295,000 worth of cheque to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Eastern Mindanao Command for the renovation of Camp Panacan Hospital in Davao City.
The Governor revealed that each province in the Davao Region has a designated room in the military hospital. “We have rooms there. We finally have been able to allocate P295,000 to serve the injured soldiers,” he said in an interview. In receiving the cheque, Col. Del Rosario said that the finanAntonio Tayag, assistant chief of cial assistance for the hospital renoAFP EastMinCom Unified Central vation will do well to “better serve Command for Logistics said the renour soldiers” injured during firearms ovation of Camp Panacan Hospital encounter. Friday, October 28, 2011
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will also be serving the dependents of soldiers. Though a military facility, the Camp Panacan Hospital can also accommodate civilians on case-to-case basis especially during emergencies, but it is not open to the public. Meanwhile, Tayag explained that provincial governors in the region have volunteered to shell out funds for the renovation of the hospital which EastMinCom would like
to raise its quality of services at par with the standards of the Department of Health (DOH)-managed hospitals. “It would be much improved with full amenities. It would also be friendly especially with wheeled patients,� he said. EastMinCom has already renovated seven wards of the Camp Panacan Hospital, Tayay said.(PIA XI/jean d. abangan)
Gov. RDR bares new BIMP-EAGA media org TAGUM CITY-Davao del Norte Provincial Governor Rodolfo P. del Rosario has told Davao del Norte media the relevance of information exchange in the context of forging stronger cooperation in the ASEAN region. Addressing members of Davao del Norte media during the recently held Press Freedom Month celebration, Del Rosario informed the Davao del Norte media that the BIMP-EAGA Media and Communicators Association (BEMCA) was formed in a Media Forum that was held on October 18 before the Senior Officials Meeting and Ministerial Meeting hosted by the Philippines in Cagayan de Oro. He said that the media forum participants were supportive of the overall goal of promoting greater cooperation among member states of the East ASEAN Growth Area (EAGA) 38
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which covers Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. Del Rosario revealed that BEMCA promotes state and private media partnership which is seen as important in opening up a much freer flow and exchange of information that is essential in building a stronger sub-regional cooperation and public interaction in the sub-ASEAN region. Reports of the Philippine Information Agency-X said that BEMCA, in a joint declaration, sought to strengthen its organization by institutionalizing the organization to improve state and private media collaboration. The BEMCA members are expected to adopt common messages on food basket, enhanced connectivity and eco-tourism. (PIA-11/jeanevive duron-abangan)
Dengue cases in region 12 decline Dengue incidents in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region (Region 12) considerably decreased this year compared to that of last year. In an interview in the Philippine Information Agency led Kalinga Kutawato radio program aired over DXMS-Cotabato City, DXND-Kidapawan City and.DXOMKoronadal City, DOH 12 regional entomologistdesignate Royfrextopher
Boholst said there are only 2077 dengue cases in region 12 from January 1 to September 24, 2011 compared to last year’s 11,190 dengue cases in the same period. Sixteen cases of deaths were reported, he added Boholst further said
that in 2010, North Cotabato had the highest number of dengue cases - 5038; second, South Cotabato - 2435; third, General Santos City -1,783; fourth, Sarangani - 950; fifth, Sultan Kudarat - 612 and sixth - Cotabato City - 372.
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In 2011, according to Boholst, the downtrend of dengue incidents is as follows: North Cotabato - 575; South Cotabato 521; General Santos City - 378; Sultan Kudarat 212; Sarangani - 204 and Cotabato City - 187. The regional entomologist - designate attributed the downtrend of dengue cases to the interven-
tions of the Department of Health, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Education, local government units and the cooperation of other sectors. He said DOH 12 director Abdullah Dumama ordered the intensification of the information campaign on dengue prevention and control
and pushed for the mobilization of residents in affected barangays in the clean-up drive and improved environmental sanitation. Boholst also noted the effective implementation of Ovicidal –Larvicidal (OL) trap system in the households of affected barangays. (OTSUDARIA/PIA 12)
25 indigent patients to avail of the open heart surgery in Gensan By Pops Gumana-Fruylan GENERAL SANTOS CITY, – The Heart Foundation of the Philippines in partnership with the General Santos City Medical Society will give support to some 25 indigent patients here for the free open heart surgery set on the last week of November in one of the collaborative hospitals in the city. In a press conference on Thursday (Oct. 27), Dr. Edwin Valencia, a cardiac surgeon based in Gensan, said a medi40
cal team will be in the City’s Doctors Hospital today for the final screening of patients. Valencia, however,
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clarified that not all patients who will come for the pre-screening are good candidates for operation.
He said the beneficiaries for the surgical mission are only those patients who were seen by cardiologist in the past and were advised for surgery, but have no money. “We will only accommodate those who were screened for so many years, but could not afford the costly operation,” he pointed out. According to the Wikipedia, “an open heart surgery is a surgery in which the patient’s heart is opened and surgery is performed on the internal structures of the heart.” Dr. Alicia Adarna, a cardiologist for over 20 years, disclosed that a cardiovascular operation costs P180, 000 to P800, 000 which is, in-
deed, very expensive. Valencia said that there were cases at the Philippine Heart Center when patients died before their slots for a cardiac surgery is scheduled since they could not afford to get operated immediately because of the high cost. Meanwhile, Dr. Adarna revealed that the Heart Foundation will be bringing its Open Heart team and other ICU equipment in Gensan in time for the actual date of the surgery. “As of now they are still inspecting the operating rooms of the hospitals in the city to find out which one is suited for the operation,” she explained. Moreover, former City
Councilor, Dr. Orlando Acharon, revealed that the city government through Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio will also help in defraying the other expenses of the surgical mission. “The counterpart of the city government is transportation cost including the plane tickets of the volunteer doctors, accommodations, and foods,” he disclosed. Acharon said that the mayor is very supportive of this kind of endeavor especially that this will benefit the generals. “This free open heart surgery is really a big help especially for the less privileged in Gensan,” he opined. (PIAGeneral Santos City)
All systems go for the 4th National ICT Summit in Gensan By Pops Gumana-Fruylan GENERAL SANTOS CITY– The ICT Solutions Association of Region 12-General Santos City (ISA 12-GSC) is “all set” for this year’s hosting of the 4th National ICT Summit on November 4-6 at the KCC Convention Center here.
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ISA 12-GSC chair Ronald Velasquez, who is also the summit chair, said they are expect-
ing some 400-500 information and communications technology (ICT) enthusiasts from all the major cities and provinces in the country as participants including foreign visitors from the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA). With eight more days to go before the start of the event, Velasquez is optimistic that the organizers will be able to showcase the potentials of Gensan as the next ICT hub in the country especially for investors. Meanwhile, the National ICT Confederation of the Philippines (NICP) revealed that this year’s summit which is anchored on the theme: “Championing Country-Wide Digital Development,” “rallies to strengthen and intensify infrastructures and institutions surrounding ICT in the 42
country.” NICP chair, Atty. Jocelle Batapa-Sigue said this is one gathering of ICT councils, “sharing a common vision of transforming the country into a world-class global services provider.” “The summit brings together experts to speak on improving ICT ecosystems in the countryside, updates on business process outsourcing and human capital development, and areas of collaboration to generate jobs and investment,” Batapa-Sigue disclosed. Moreover, Velasquez is also encouraging all stakeholders of the ICT
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industry to support and take part in this year’s gathering. Batapa-Sigue said the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has already issued a memorandum circular which encourages local government units to participate in the said occasion. The 4th National ICT Summit is supported by Microsoft Philippines, ePLDT, ABM Global Solutions, Teledevelopment and BPO Career Hubs, and the City Government of General Santos City. (PGFruylan/ PIA-General Santos City)
Mekanisasyon hindi angkop sa lahat na sakahan ng South Cotabato KORONADAL CITY -- Inamin ni South Cotabato Provincial Agriculturist na hindi gaanong angkop ang konsepto ng farm mechanization kung sakahan ng malaking bahagi ng lalawigan ang pag-uusapan. Gayunman, sinabi nito na opsyon pa rin ng mga magsasaka kung gagamit sila ng makinarya sa mga pagsagawa ng mga gawaing pangsakahan. Hindi aniya angkop ang paggamit ng makinarya sa umiiral na sistema ng pagsasaka sa lalawigan dahil limitado ang pag-aaring sakahan samanta-
lang ang mga kahon sa palayan ay maliliit. Maliban dito, hindi rin umano kaayaaya ang magiging resulta ng mekanisasyon dahil maraming residente na umaasa sa kita mula sa gawaing pansakahan ang mawawalan ng pagkakakitaan kung papalitan sila ng mga makina.
Dagdag pa nito, may ilang lugar naman sa lalawigan kung saan maaring epektibo ang mekanisasyon. Subalit, base sa kanilang taya, hindi umano aabot sa 20 porsiyento ng buong lupain ng South Cotabato ang maaring gamitan ng mga makinarya. (DEDoguiles/ PIA 12)
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Masaganang ani inaasahan ng South Cotabato sa Disyembre KORONADAL CITY- Malamang na magiging mas masaya ang pasko ng mga magsasaka ng South Cotabato, ayon kay Provincial Agriculturist Reynaldo Legaste. Ayon kay Legaste, bagama’t nasa tig-dalawang libong ektarya lang ang inaaning palay sa buong lalawigan sa buwan ng Oktubre at Nobyembre, mahigit labindalawang libong ektarya naman ang nakatakdang aanihing palay sa buwan ng Disyembre. Ang ganitong ganda ng ani ay hindi pa umano nararanasan sa South Cotabato sa nakalipas na limang taon. Inaasahan ding mas magiging mabigat ang mga butil ng aanihing palay sa Disyembrekung magpapatuloy ang ganda ng panahon nararanasan sa lalawigan sa kasalukuyan. 44
Nakasisiguro rin umano ang mga magsasaka sa mas matatag na presyo ng kanilang palay. Nitong linggo bumalik na rin sa lebel ng P15 bawat kilo ang bili ng mga commercial traders sa palay ng mga magsasaka mula sa P13 bawat kilo nitong nakalipas na dalawang linggo. Sakali mang bahagya itong bumaba sa darating na mga linggo, nandiyan naman ang National Food Authority (NFA) ng South Cotabato na kasalukuyan ding bumili ng palay sa halagang P17.40 bawat kilo sa “clean and dry rice.� Dagdag pa ni
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Legaste, may niluluto din silang proyekto sa pamahalaang panlalawigan ng South Cotabato na bumili ng direkta mula sa mga magsasaka katuwang ang isang mapagkakatiwalaang organisasyon ng magsasakaka. Kung matutuloy ang proyekto, bibilhin ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ang ani ng mga magsasaka sa halagang P16 bawat kilo. Aniya dahil sa naturang mga hakbang, mapipigilan umano ang mga commercial traders na bilhin sa mas malaking halaga ang aning palay ng mga magsasaka ng South Cotabato. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)