CONTENTS NATIONAL • Navy’s “Fleet Marine” team all set peacekeeping
OUR COVER:
mission in Haiti
• DA proposes P61.7B budget for 2012 • Phl to host ASEM Conference on Nov
LAKE SEBU
South Cotabato’s premiere tourist destination.
Central Mindanao (SOCSKSARGEN) • DBFTA boon to Region 12’s exports
• BFAR director visits Lebak, commits support for fisheries dev’t PHOTO CREDIT: Danny E. Doguiles support
• Tagalog News: Mga residente sa Tantangan, pinaalalahanan na huwag kumain ng karne ng daga • Tagalog News: P57-M Cotabato Sanitarium Hospital binuksan sa publiko • Tagalog News: IRA ng S. Cotabato inaasahang bababa sa susunod na taon
An Electronic News Magazine
published daily by Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Mindanao Clusters
EDITORIAL STAFF Executive Editor …….........
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 …...
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 Layout Artists ……………... Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region Emmanuel D. Gonzales, PIA Caraga Region Editorial Advisers ……….... ATTY. JOSE A. FABIA Director-General Philippine Information Agency
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SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMA Presidential Communications Operations Office
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Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga) • Clean Ground, Zero Waste program, a demonstration of Butuanons’ unity for environmental protection, says official • City dad envisions Butuan to be one of Phl’s cleanest cities • First batch of OFWs from Libya receives NRCO livelihood grant • 8 LGUs complete 2-day orientation on disaster risk reduction mngt, climate change adaptation • KAP Medical Assistance Program reaches Surigao Norte
Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula) • PNP 9 crime lab receives 4x4 vehicle from city • City Health cautions public on leptospirosis • ARMM officials hit ‘rehashed disinformation’ campaign on unaccounted funds • PRO 9 Crime Lab, only one in country funded by US gov’t • Cebuano News:BFAR padayong nagpasidaan batok sa pagkaon sa kinhason
Northern Mindanao • Iligan city mulling on the establishment of cultural heritage park at Bayug Island • Cag. de Oro SP backs extension of services of DepEd Exec • Iligan Business Month celebration gains support from stakeholders • Misamis Occ solon supports DSWD’s request for higher budget • COWD reminds senior citizens to renew discount privileges
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region) • Hot logs now used for school chairs • Davao as retirement haven • Davao obstetricians intensifies information drive on RH in communities • Tagum City to focus on shelter for poor, displaced families • Civil Service set to improve government efficiency
Monday, September 12, 2011
Navy’s “Fleet Marine” team all set peacekeeping mission in Haiti
T
he Armed Forces of the Philippines is all set as the first ever all-Navy “Fleet Marine” delegation to go in a peacekeeping mission to Haiti.
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief General Eduardo Oban said that the AFP has gained a lot in peacekeeping. “Even though we have our own concerns of internal security, our country remains steadfastly supportive of the commitment for world peace, and continues to join other democratic countries in this venture,” Oban said. Marine Colonel George S. Fernandez will be leading the 155strong contingent, with 143 enlisted personnel and 12 officers. “I will successfully accomplish this noble mission by employing our most imMonday, September 12, 2011
portant assets who are specialized, disciplined, competent, and highly trained personnel to perform administrative and logistics services,” said Fernandez. He added that he will strictly ensure that his men and women will adhere to the AFP’s code of conduct during their six months peacekeeping operations and humanitarian relief in Haiti. The 14th Philippine Contingent to Haiti will leave on Tuesday, September 20. They will ensure the protection of human rights in the area, participate in conflict mitigation measures, and prepare ar-
eas for aid.
humanitarian
This is the second time the AFP is sending a core unit coming from one major service to act as peacekeepers. Last May, the members of the 76th Infantry “Victrix” Battalion from the Philippine Army were deployed as core contingent to Liberia. The deployment of contingents to other countries is AFP’s contribution to the United Nations as it continues to perform its role in advocating international peace and solidarity. (AFP/ PIA-NCR/RJB/JEG)
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DA proposes P61.7B budget for 2012
T
he Department of Agriculture (DA) is asking for a P61.7 billion budget for next year during the 2011 deliberation of the proposed 2012 budget at the Senate of the Philippines over the weekend. According to Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, the proposed amount is 60 percent more than this year’s allotment. Alcala said their agency is asking for a higher budget as it will ‘frontload’ investments in irrigation (P27.1B), post-
T
and sufficiency in rice and major staples by end of 2013. He said this amount would also help them increase rural incomes, and achieve other major that with the budget, agri-fishery sector goals the Aquino administra- set by the agency. (DA/ tion will be on track in RJB/JCP-PIA NCR) attaining food security harvest and other agrifishery infrastructure (P11.28B), production support (P4.86B), and research and extension (P4.75B). The official said
Phl to host ASEM Conference on Nov. he Philippines will be hosting the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Conference on the Harmonization of Biofuels Standards and Application to Vehicle Technologies on November 10 to 11 this year.
President Benigno Aquino III signed Administrative Order No. 19 mandating the DFA and DOE to organize and carry out the activities in connection with the Philippine hosting of ASEM conference. Under AO, an Executive Committee will be created, to be headed by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs department and the Secretary of Energy department, or their duly designated representatives. “The Executive Committee shall closely coordinate the integrated assis-
4
tance by obtaining technical, financial and administrative support from other relevant agencies and local government units where the conference and other related activities will be held,” the AO stated. The Executive Committee is tasked to “formulate a work program and budget plan for the hosting of the conference and other related activities; implement the work program, and supervise and monitor all activities.” It is also tasked to “call upon any official, agent
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employee, agency or instrumentality of the government for any assistance that may be necessary to ensure the success of the Philippine hosting of the conference and its related activities.” The Executive Com-
mittee will also “engage the support, assistance and cooperation of international, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations and private sector and entities in the preparations and conduct of the conference.” (DFA/ RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)
Monday, September 12, 2011
DBFTA boon to Region 12’s exports by Nelly Nita Dillera
KORONADAL CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) -- The 2011 first semester exports from Region 12 pegged at US $ 423.36M posted a 44% increase compared with the 2010 first semester data of US $293.282 M. Total 2010 exports of US $ 632.23 M grew by 29% than the 2009 data of US $489.98 M. Top Region 12 products are canned tuna, canned pineapple, crude coco oil, fresh & frozen whole tuna and fresh pineapple. The top five markets are European Union, USA, Japan, Canada and China, DTI 12 director Ibrahim K. Guiamadel dislosed in a recent press conference for the roadshow on Doing Business in Fair Trade Areas (DBFTA). Bureau of Export Trade Promotion Director Senen Perlada said that exports figures of
Region 12 are expected to even more increase as more opportunities are offered as benefits gained from Free Trade Areas (FTAs) will make our export products more competitive. The benefits of the FTAs were the focus of all the presentations during the information campaign on DBFTA in General Santos City on September 8, which was attended by more than 200 exporters and potential exporters. There are six ex-
isting Free Trade Agreements of the Philippines – ASEAN Free Trade Areas, ASEAN-China FTA, ASEAN-Korea FTA, ASEAN Australia-New Zealand FTA, ASEAN Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and Phil-Japan Economic Partnership. This covers major export sectors like Motor Vehicle Parts and Vehicles, Minerals, Food, Garments and Textiles, Construction & Related Materials, Homestyle, 6
Monday, September 12, 2011
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DBFTA boon...from page 5 and IT/BPO and other services. Most of the mentioned products have zero tariff when exported to the FTAs. But it is important to know the correct tariff rate and have a Certificate of Origin for the products, Perlada said. DTI-International Trade Group Asst. Secretary Ramon Vicente T. Kabigting along with officials from the Tariff Commission, Bureau of Customs, Tuna Canners Association of the Philippines and Monde Nissin
Corp shared the necessary information as well as the experiences they have had in engaging business at FTAs. Kabigting explained to the media that while zero tariff would mean lesser income to the government, the benefits that the country will gain will be more than what the country will suppose to earn. The gains are numerous if a country has dynamic and vibrant economy, gains from the business taxes, taxes from salaries, the
employment generated, among others as exports flourish. He also noted that should raw materials be unavailable here, processors can always import them from other countries, process them here and export again. It is imperative however that our government should look into the infrastructure requirements, the technology, product quality and safety to become competitive, Kabigting concluded. (DED/PIA 12/DTI-SK)
BFAR director visits Lebak, commits support for fisheries dev’t support by Omar Sabal and Jane Christine Balayo
KORONADAL CITY, Sept.12 (PIA) -- Atty. Asis G. Perez, the national director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) personally immersed with the fisherfolk and local leaders in a recent visit to the coastal tow of Lebak in Sultan Kudarat. Perez said that this trip was an opportunity to reach out with the fisherfolk who are sometimes deprived of the services which the
government offers. “This is my third time to come to Lebak but my first time as a Director and visiting the actual project location
is my way of bringing closer the government to our clients, the small and marginalized fisherfolk,” Perez said. Perez’s itinerary 7
6
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Monday, September 12, 2011
BFAR director...from page 6 include among others speaking engagements in different activities, project site visits, and a mangrove planting activity. Upon arrival, he immediately paid courtesy call to the community leaders of Barangay Datu Karon where he committed to allocate funds for the procurement of materials specifically monoline requirements for the expansion of existing seaweed farm and provision of two units of stilt dryers. He also approved in principle the proposed establishment of Php 400,000.00-worth baklad, a passive fishing gear, in the area subject to the verification of costs. His next stop was in Barangay Tibpuan where he led a ceremonial launch of eight units of Fish Aggregating Device (FAD), locally known as payao, and distribution of 15 units diesel engines for target recipients. The materials and accessories for the payaos were joint investments of
Monday, September 12, 2011
BFAR and the Local Government Unit to increase catch of the fisherfolk. The engines, on the other hand, were given to complement existing boat hulls to enhance their efficiency to fish or to report to authorities illegal fishing activities. Perez committed eleven more diesel engines for each of the fisherfolk associations that are based in the municipality. Then he led a mass oath-taking and a dialogue with fisheries stakeholders at Almirante’s Garden in Barangay Poblacion. The mass convergence served as venue to clarify and resolve issues that hamper development of fisheries in the municipality. The following day, the director spearheaded a mangrove planting activity at Sitio Kumalawit in Barangay Taguisa which was participated by more than a hundred individuals from various sectors including local
officials and personnel, provincial reprentatives, fisherfolk leaders, Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Management Councils (FARMCs), commercial fishing operators, the Philippine Marines, the Philippine National Police, BFAR personnel, and guests from the private sector. Two thousand propagules were initially planted and more planting activities are expected to happen in the coming days to realize the goal of planting 100 million mangroves nationwide. The people of Lebak were very thankful for the presence of Director Perez and guests from partner institutions. No less than Mayor Dionesio Besana awarded plaques of appreciation to Perez and local BFAR management for their untiring efforts to plan and implement projects for the fisheries development of Lebak. (DED/PIA 12/BFAR 12)
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Tagalog News: Mga residente sa Tantangan, pinaalalahanan na huwag kumain ng karne ng daga KORONADAL CITY, Setyembre 12 (PIA) -- Muling nagpaalala ang pamunuan ng Provincial Agriculturist Office ng South Cotabato sa mga mamamayan, partikular na sa mga barangay ng bayan ng Tantangan na tigilan muna ang paghuli, pagluto at pagkain ng mga daga.
Ito, ayon kay provincial agriculturist Reynaldo Legaste, ay dahil sinimulan na nila ang acute baiting o paglason ng mga daga sa lugar gamit ang zinc phosphite nitong nakaraang Setyembre 8. Paliwanag ni Legaste agarang pagkamatay ng daga ang resulta ng lason na kanilang ginagamit ngayon. Aniya pagkatapos makakain ng isang daga ng naturang lason mamamatay na ito nang hindi pa nakatatakbo ng dalawang metro. Subalit sa mga susunod na linggo, magsasagawa na sila ng sustained baiting kung saan ang gagamiting lason para sa mga daga
8
ay mas matagal ang epekto. Aniya, maaring umabot ng anim na oras bago eepekto ang lason na kanilang gagamitin sa sustained baiting na mas delikado sa mga residente dahil mas mahirap itong obserbahan kung nalason o hindi. Kaya payo ni Legaste, mas mainam na tigilan na lang muna ang paghuli, pagluto at pagkain ng dagang-palay. Samantala, nilinaw ni Legaste na hindi lang bayan ng Tampakan ang kanilang pinagtutuunan nila ng pansin sa rat campaign. Aniya nagsasagawa rin sila ng rat campaign sa mga bayan ng Lake Sebu, Polomolok at iba pang
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bayan na posibleng atakehin rin ng mga pesteng daga. Kabilang sa mga lugar na mas pinagtutuunan nila ng pansin ay ang Barangay Ned sa Lake Sebu dahil lumalala ang pananalasa ng mga pesteng daga sa mga pananim doon. Simula noong Enero hanggang Hulyo nitong taon nasa P36 milyon na ang dulot na kasiraan ng mga daga sa pananim, ayon kay Legaste. Mas mataas umano ito kung ikukumpara sa danyos dahil sa pesteng daga sa buong taon ng 2010 na nasa P19 milyon lamang. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12) Monday, September 12, 2011
Tagalog News: P57-M Cotabato Sanitarium Hospital binuksan sa publiko COTABATO CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) -- Halos apat na taon din ang ginawang pagsasaayos at papagpapalawak ng Cotabato Santarium Hospital na matatagpuan sa barangay Unab sa bayan ng Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. Sa ginawang pasinaya noong Sept 9, 2011, sinabi ni Dr. Abdullah Dumama, regional director ng Department of HealthCenter for Health Development, Region XII (DOH-CHD XII) na taong 2007 na sinumulan ang rehabilitasyon at expansion ng naturang pagamutang pampubliko sa pamamagitan ng P57 million pondo mula sa Health Facility Enhancement Program (HFEP) ng DOH. Ayon kay Dumama, kasama sa ginastors sa rehabilitasyon at expansion ng 10bed ospital ay mga makabagong kagamitan. Suplay ng gamot at mga duktor at iba pand health personnel
upang magbigay ng serbisyong pangkalusugan sa publiko. Ang Cotabato Sanitarium Hospital ay dating leprosarium na nagsilbing pagamutan at kanlungan ng mga maysakit na ketong sa loob ng kumigit kumulang tatlong dekada. Sa pagbubukas ng Cotabato Sanitarium Hospital, maiiwasan na ang pagsisiksikan ng mga pasyente sa Cotabato Regional Medical Center o CRMC na matatagpuan sa lungsod ng Cotabato, ayon kay Dumama. “Ito’y napakalaking tulong para sa Cotabato Regional Medical Center para mababawasan ang pagsisikip ng mga maysakit lalo
na sa mga pasyenteng hindi naman malubha o minor ang karamdaman o di kaya panganganak, ani Dumama. Tiniyak ni Dumama ang pagsasaayos ng mga papeles upang maging Philhealth accredited ang Cotabato Sanitarium Hospital sa susunod na buwan sabay hikayat sa publiko na magpa-miyembro na sa Philhealth. Sa panig ni Maguindanao 1st district Rep. Bai Sandra Sema, sinabi nitong patuloy nitong isinusulong ang pagkakaroon ng ospital ang bawat munsipyo sa rehiyon na siyang magbibigay ng serbisyong pangkalususgan ng mga mamamayan. 10
Monday, September 12, 2011
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9
Tagalog News: P57-M...from page 9
Nan g ako ng kanya n g p atuloy na s upo r t a ang kong resi st a na nag-
bigay n g P 5 0 , 0 0 0 paun a n g tu lon g pinan s ya l s a os p ita l k apa lit n g m aayos
a t ta p a t n a s e r bis yo s a ta u mbaya n . (pbchangco/PIA C ota b a to C i ty)
Tagalog News: IRA ng S. Cotabato inaasahang bababa sa susunod na taon KORONADAL CITY, Setyembre 12 (PIA 12) – Inaasahang bababa ang internal revenue allotment (IRA) ng pamahalaang panlalawigan at mga local government units ng South Cotabato sa taong 2012 dulot ng tuluyang pagkakadeklara ng Korte Suprema ng 16 na bayan sa buong bansa bilang mga lungsod ilang buwan na ang nakaraan. Sa datos na nakalap mula sa pamahalaang probinsyal tinatayang bababa ng P104 milyon ang IRA ng lalawigan sa susunod na taon. Mula sa mahigit P2.21 bilyon na IRA ng buong lalawigan ngayong 2010 inaasahang bababa ito ng P2.1 B sa 2012. Aabot umano sa P104 milyon ang mababawas sa IRA ng lalawigan sa susunod na taon. Hinahanda na ngayon ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ang
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mga hakbang para mapunan ang mababawas sa IRA ng provincial LGU na aabot sa P36 milyon. Kabilang na dito ang paghahanap ng ibang mapagkukunan ng pondo. Tinatayang mababawasan naman ng P20 milyon ang IRA ng lungsod ng Koronadal at P47 ang kabuuang mababawas sa IRA ng 10 bayang nasasakupan ng South Cotabato. Maaring mas maapektuhan umano
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ang budget sa maintenance operating
and
other
expenses
(MOOE) ng mga LGU.
Sa buong bansa,
aabot umano sa
4.8
porsiyento ang
ka-
buuang
mababawas
sa IRA ng may 43,000 na LGUs dahil sa pagkaka-reclassify
bilang
mga lungsod ng 16 na bayan. (DEDoguiles/ PIA 12) Monday, September 12, 2011
Clean Ground, Zero Waste program demonstrates unity among Butuanons, by Robert E. Roperos says official BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) – Citing the importance of environmental protection, Vice Mayor Atty. Lawrence Lemuel Fortun on Sunday said the Clean Ground, Zero Waste program of the local government is a demonstration of Butuanons’ unity.
In his speech before the jam-packed 3,000-seater Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) gymnasium during the launching of the program, Vice Mayor Fortun said the activity is a demonstration of the
Monday, September 12, 2011
Butuanon’s capacity to unite and work together for a common cause. “We must be able to sustain that unity and cooperation to be successful of what we are doing,” Fortun said. Vice Mayor Fortun
also negates the notion that the forefathers have popularized. He added it is not true that the Filipino people are fond of practicing “ningas kugon” or mañana habit mentality. 12
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Clean Ground, Zero...from page 11 “It is not true that aims to facilitate social we Filipinos are fond of transformation processes this habit. Looking back among residents to manat the history when our ifest the desired behavior forefathers fought and of segregating waste at risk their lives to achieve source, cleaning the surfreedom and democracy, roundings and convertthey have achieved it af- ing wastes into money. ter a long period of war It also aimed to and were able to sustain achieve massive convertheir momentum until sion of waste into organthey have achieved it,” ic fertilizers (biodegradFortun said. ables) by the organic He added, the Fili- fertilizer production facilpinos have the capacity ities and useful materials to fought hard, work to- (non-biodegradables). gether and sustain unity. The framework for The Clean Ground, change involves the inZero Waste program tegration of social trans-
formation strategies with economic strategies.
transformation This
entails
continuing community education, reinforcing and recognizing good behavior, intensifying enforcement of ordinances and mobilization of eco-marshals and community volunteers. It also includes the establishment and operations of organic fertilizer production facilities to convert waste into organic fertilizers. (PIA-Caraga)
City dad envisions Butuan to be one of Phl’s cleanest cities by Robert E. Roperos BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) – City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. asked Butuanons’ support in its quest to be one 13 of the cleanest cities in the country.
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Monday, September 12, 2011
City dad envisions...from page 12
During the launching of Clean Ground, Zero Waste program of the city government on Sunday, Mayor Amante pointed out the significance of having an environment that is conducive to obtain good health. Amante said if Butuanons will give their all-out support to the program, the city government can save in as far as budgeting for health and social concerns of its people. “Instead of putting up big budget for our medical facilities in our government hospital and investing too much for our constituents’ health, we should solve first the causes of health problems… and that is by ensuring a clean environment,” Amante said.
Monday, September 12, 2011
With this, the chief executive of the city said, “by sustaining this program, we may be able to be included in the list of the cleanest cities in the Philippines”. True to its mission to seriously implement the program, awarding of “Clean Seals” as a behavior change strategy to households, puroks, barangays, classrooms, stall, and business establishments will be conducted regularly. The city government will also be deploying 38 Eco Marshals to different barangays, as well as to mobilize of existing community volunteers and employ strategies.
gional and local policy and financial back-up) by setting up community-based organic fertilizer production facilities.
Meanwhile,
the
program will serve as a venue for the convergence and multi-sector
mobilization
such
as barangays, regional line agencies, national government
agencies,
businesses,
academe,
provincial government, media, and the like.
Moreover, the pro-
gram is integrating with other community “felt” concerns such as dengue
and
anti-rabies
campaign. It also encouraged
meaningful
The program also community participaentails waste conver- tion and massive comsion to organic fertiliz- munity actions. (PIAers (with national, re- Caraga)
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First batch of OFWs from Libya receives NRCO livelihood grant by Ritchel M. Molero BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) -- Twelve OFWs repatriated from Libya, and four distressed OFWs from Middle East received checks worth 10,000 pesos each as a livelihood grant of the National Reintegration Center for OFWs. This was done in coordination with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and Department of Labor and Employment and was held September 5 at the OWWA-Caraga Training Hall. To date, OWWA-Caraga had released a total of 160,000 pesos to 16 Caraganon OFWs under the NRCO Livelihood Grant. By the coming months the agency is expected to release another 240,000 pesos for the remaining 15 Repatriated OFWs from Libya and 9 distressed workers from Middle East . OWWA-Caraga OIC Marieta A. Lumawag said the 10,000 livelihood grant will allow the OFWs to finance their preferred business enterprise and will augment their income. Prior to the awarding of the check, Regional Welfare Office- Caraga in partnership with TESDA, DTI, DA-ATI, and with full support from DOLE Regional Director Ofelia B. Domingo, conducted series of Enterprise Development Train-
14
ing and Business Livelihood Skills Training such as Mushroom Culture, Lemon Grass Farming, Pangasius Production, Modern Swine and Native Chicken Raising, etc. for the recipients of the grant. Technological Demonstration on Cologne and Perfume Making, Detergent Powder Making, Dishwashing Liquid, Fabric Softener Making and others were also conducted to produce well-informed and wellequipped OFWs before starting a business. The first batch of the NRCO Livelihood Grant was thankful to the Philippine Government for its continuous support for the OFWs. One of them was Mr. Oliver T. Plaza, who expressed his deep gratitude to DOLE & OWWA for the help he received during his repatria-
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tion and even in his struggle to establish his construction business. “This ten thousand will be of great help in my endeavor of raising bigger capital for my newly established construction business,� Plaza said. OWWA-Caraga also distributed Certificate of Participation to 42 OFWs who successfully completed the 3-day Entrepreneurial Development Training on August 10. The Certificate of Participation is one of the primary requirements of the Landbank of the Philippines and Development Bank of the Philippines in processing the 2 Billion Reintegration Loan Program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
Monday, September 12, 2011
8 LGUs complete 2-day orientation on disaster risk reduction mngt, climate change adaptation by Ray Gregory F. Jaranilla BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) – Citing the importance of environBUTUAN CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) – Eight local government units (LGUs) in Caraga Region have completed the two-day Basic Orientation on Disaster Risk Reduction Management and Climate Change Adaptation for LGUs recently at the Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city.
The eight LGUs ment Officer, Health rollo (AECID).
were the city of Su- Officer, rigao
and
Agriculturist,
It aimed to en-
the
mu- Engineer, Budget Of- hance LGU’s capacity nicipalities of Dapa, ficer, Liga President, to better understand Gigaquit and Socorro NGO
representative,
in the province of Su- DepEd Supervisor and rigao del Norte, the the Local Government city of Bislig and the Operations Officer. municipalities of San
The activity was
Agustin and Barobo conducted by the Lo-
the concept of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. It also aimed to familiarize DRRM Act
in the province of Su- cal Government Acad- of 2010 (RA 10121) rigao del Sur and the emy (LGA) of the and CCA Act of 2009 municipality
of
San Department of the In- (RA 9729) including
Jose in the province of terior and Local Gov- the different local and Dinagat Islands.
ernment (DILG) under international frameParticipants from the project “Strength- works, tools and tech-
each LGU were com- ening Local Govern- niques to facilitate posed of the Mayor, ments in the Philipplanning and develAdministrator, Plan- pines” funded by the oping local DRR/CCA ning and Development Agencia Española de actions. (DILG-CarCoordinator, Social Cooperación Internaaga/PIA-Caraga) Welfare and Develop- cional para el DesarMonday, September 12, 2011
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KAP Medical Assistance Program reaches Surigao Norte SURIGAO DEL NORTE, Sept. 12 (PIA) -- In line with his advocacy to improve public health nationwide, Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. today provided help to the indigent patients of the province through his Kalusugan Ating Pangalagaan (KAP) medical assistance program. From his Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), Revilla allocated half a million pesos as medical assistance fund for the needy patients in the province. The granting of medical aid was formalized through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) which was signed by the senator and Dr. Ponciano Limcangco, medical director of the CARAGA Regional Hospital in Surigao City in a simple ceremony held on Friday, September 9 at the said hospital. Surigao del Norte 1st District Representative Francisco Matugas, Surigao del Norte 2nd District Representative Guillermo Romarate, Jr., Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas and Surigao City Mayor Ernesto Matugas witnessed the signing. According to the
16
senator, Filipino families usually ignore their health needs due to financial problems, which leads to worsening of ailments. “This is the reason why I see to it that a significant portion of my Priority Development Assistance Fund or PDAF will go to medicnal assistance,” he said. To avail of the medical assistance, indigent patients in the province can go or send a representative to the Office of Congressman Matugas or Congressman Romarate, Provincial Capitol of Surigao del Norte or Office of the Surigao City Mayor. The medical assistance will be given as a guarantee letter where the amount that the patient can avail under the program is indicated. “Nandito lang ang ating mga guarantee letters. Inaalay
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ko ito sa mga mamamayan ng Surigao; nakahanda para makatulong sa kanila,” Revilla said. Aside from the medical aid program, Revilla also regularly conducts medical-dental missions and blood letting activities. These are all under his KAP medical assistance program. He also filed healthrelated bills which include the institutionalization of a pre-hospital emergency care system, the establishment of a special hospital for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents, and the granting of compensation, reimbursement for hospitalization expenses, and other benefits to civilians caught in the crossfire between rebels and the military. (Office of Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla/ PIA-Surigao del Norte)
Monday, September 12, 2011
PNP 9 crime lab receives 4x4 vehicle from city by Jocelyn P. Alvarez ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) - To boost mobility of the Philippine National Police’s Regional Crime Laboratory personnel and contribute to the enhancement of service to public, the city government turned over to PNP Crime Lab a 4x4 vehicle yesterday.
Mayor Celso Lo- to
bregat
law
enforcement face to police stations
personally agencies
primarily in barangays Vitali, turned over the vehi- aimed to sustain peace Curuan and Sangali,” cle to PNP Crime Lab and security. Director PCSupt. Lorlie Arroyo
and
Covarrubias
said
Regional the reconditioned ve-
Crime Lab Chief PSupt. hicle cost the govern-
Covarrubias said.
Covarrubias
shared
“Lobregat
ment close to P400, vowed to continuously assist and support the In a press state- 000. ment, City Information “A few months needs of the police and Solomon Segundo.
Officer Sheila Covarru- back, the city governbias said the donation ment also turned over of the vehicle forms three 4x4 jeeps-all off part of the city governroad vehicles that are ment’s commitment to aggressively continue capable on and off support and assistance paved or gravel surMonday, September 12, 2011
other law enforcement agencies for the purpose of ensuring a sustained peace and order in Zamboanga.” (JPA/ PIA 9-Zambo City)
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City Health cautions public on leptospirosis by Jocelyn P. Alvarez ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) - The City Health Office (CHO) called on public to be wary of flood water-borne disease such as Leptospirosis which per CHO report has already affected 20 individuals since January of this year, of which three have died. Richard Aliangan, City Information Officer in a press statement said this bacterial infection has affected at least four of the city’s barangays-Labuan, Recodo, San Jose and Limpapa. Aliangan said, City Health Officer Rodelin Agbulos warns the public on the threat of the disease which can lead to kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, and respiratory distress and worst, can even lead to death if not detected and treated early. Although the disease is far from the epidemic level, CHO advises public to be cautious especially during rainy season.
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Leptospirosis can be acquired through exposure to water contaminated with animal urine infected with bacteria of the genus Leptospira.
sewer workers, veterinarians, fish workers, dairy farmers or military personnel, bacteria can be transmitted to a person or animals
“Although rodents through mucosal surare the most known faces such as the eyes carriers, cattle, pigs, or nose, or with broken
horses, dogs, and wild skin like wounds.” Person infected animals can also be
source of the bacteria with the disease may symptoms if infected,” the health exhibit officer said.
like high fever, severe
The press state- headache, chills, musment reads: “often re- cle aches, vomiting and
ferred as “occupational jaundice or in layman’s disease” since it usu- description-yellow skin ally victimizes persons and eyes. Other whose work requires
symptoms
exposure and contact include red eyes, abto animals and wet en- dominal pain diarrhea vironment like farmers, and rashes. (JPA/PIA 9-Zambo City)
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Monday, September 12, 2011
ARMM officials hit ‘rehashed disinformation’ campaign on unaccounted funds ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Sept. 12 (PIA) – Incumbent officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) lamented on the recurrence of the ‘rehashed disinformation’ campaign on alleged unaccounted funds. The Bureau of Public Information reveals that ARMM executive Secretary Naguib Sinarimbo deplored on Monday the resurrection of a special audit report on some P2.6billion unaccounted funds in the region in the past which some media reports recently insinuated to be a responsibility of incumbent officials. “The so-called P2.6-billion fund mess purportedly unearthed by a special audit in the ARMM’s financial transactions in 2008 to Sept. 2009 was made to appear in a recently published report as an anomaly in 2010,” Sinarimbo said. Sinarimbo said
the same fund mess had been used by national officials as a reason to file plunder cases against past ARMM officials. “Why should the present ARMM leadership be dragged into such mess? Our administration has been subjected to special and regular audits but nothing irregular of such magnitude has been discovered,” said Sinarimbo, one of incumbent officials appointed in December 2009. Incumbent ARMM officials cried foul over what they lamented as recurrence of “rehashed disinformation” campaign allegedly meant to exagger-
ate justifications for a “false need” for a caretaker regional leadership at the expense of currently governing elected leaders. Recently, three groups of petitioners questioned the constitutionality of R.A. 10153, which the Congress passed last June to postpone and synchronize the Aug. 8, 2011 ARMM elections with the 2013 midterm national and local elections, and allow the President to appoint OICs to administer the ARMM affairs for some 21 months. “The President should cease and desist from naming OICs in ARMM until after the SC shall have resolved 20
Monday, September 12, 2011
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ARMM officials...from page 19
some petitions challenging the constitutionality of the law that postponed the election in the Muslim region and synchronized it with the 2013 national elections,” said lawyer Romulo Macalintal in a memorandum submitted to the High Court. Macalintal, one of the petitioners, prayed that in case the OICs have been appointed prior to the resolution of the petitions, the SC should issue an order “directing such OICs to cease and desist from assuming such positions and allow the incumbent elective ARMM officials to perform their functions until further order by the court.” The two other petitioning groups are the PDP-Laban party led by former Senator Nene Pimentel and a convergent of Muslim lawyers led by Basary
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Mapupuno of Lanao del among the nominees Sur. at least 10 days before These groups had Sept. 30, reports said. asked
the
Supreme
Court (SC) last Monday to stop President Aquino from appointing
officers-in-charge
Macalintal and Pi-
mentel said in a report in one of the national dailies, the postpone-
(OICs) to govern the ment of the ARMM affairs of the Autono- polls “violates the bamous Region in Muslim sic right of ARMM elecMindanao (ARMM) for torate to choose their some 21 months af- elective officials.” ter the term of office They also asserted of the elective officials that appointing OICs is expires on Sept. 30. another arbitrary since A search Commit“Section 18, Article X tee formed by Presiof the 1987 Constitudent Aquino on July 28 tion mandates that is reportedly finalizing the shortlists from the executive departamong almost 200 as- ment and the legislapirants and nominees tive assembly of the for OICs to the position ARMM shall be elective of regional governor, and representative of vice governor and 24 the constituent politimembers of the ARMM cal units.”(JPA/AGMlegislative
assembly. B P I A R M M / R V C The President is exPIA9 BaSulTa) pected to appoint from
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Monday, September 12, 2011
PRO 9 Crime Lab, only one in country funded by US gov’t by Jocelyn P. Alvarez ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) - The newly turned over crime laboratory building here is the first and only crime lab building funded by the United States government, this said Police Regional Office (PRO)- 9 Crime Laboratory Head Supt. Solomon Segundo. Segundo said that of the 16 Police Regional Offices nationwide including the National Head Quarters in Camp Crame, it is only in PRO-9 that the US government poured funds for its construction coupled with complete crime lab equipment. Segundo further said, the funds does not only limit to the physical construction of the crime lab building but goes out to the purchase of modern crime laboratory
“gear” and the training of police personnel and technicians who will be assigned for the maintenance of the crime lab. The Crime Laboratory Head revealed, the funds from the US government will be released in three batches. The first batch was already released that resulted to the completion of the construction of the crime lab building which was recently turned over to PRO9. Second release will
be for the for the setting of the fallowing sections in the crime lab such as chemistry section, macro etching examination section, section for evidence for DNA test and the purchase of needed crime laboratory equipment. Third and final release will be used for the training of personnel and technicians who will be assigned for the maintenance of the crime lab. (JPA/PIA 9-Zambo City)
Cebuano News:BFAR padayong nagpasidaan batok sa pagkaon sa kinhason ni Alfonso T. Ruda
DIPOLOG CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) - Dili pa gihapong luwas kan-on ang mga kinhason gikan sa Murcielagos Bay nga nahimutang sa Zamboanga del Norte ug Misamis Occidental. Kini human nga ang Bureau of Fisheries kon BFAR batok sa pagpadayong nagpasidaan and Aquatic Resources kuha ug pagkaon sa 22
Monday, September 12, 2011
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Cebuano News: BFAR padayong...from page 21 mga alamang, tahong ug uban pang matang sa mga kinhason gikan sa kabaybayonan sa Mindanao, Eastern Samar ug Zambales. Pinasikad sa Shellfish Bulletin numero 18 nga pinitsahan ug Agosto 23, 2011, positibo sa paralytic shell poison ang mga sampol nga tahong ug alamang gikan sa Dumaquillas Bay sa Zamboanga del Sur; Murcielagos Bay sa Zamboanga del Norte ug Misamis Occidental ug Masinloc Bay sa Zambales. Positibo gihapon sa Red Tide Toxin ang mga kinhason gikan sa Matarinao bay sa Eastern Samar. Nakaangkon ug lumot ang dagat. Dunay mga lumot o phytoplankton nga nahimong pagkaon sa mga nilalang sa dagat sama sa tahong, ug uban pang matang sa kinhason, isda, pasayan ug bisan mga kasag. Dunay mga delikadong phytoplankton; usa niini mao ang demoflagellates nga naghatag ug hilo nga gitawag ug saxitoxin
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nga maoy hinungdan sa paralytic shell poisoning. Usa sa dinoflaggelate mao ang Pyridium Bahamese Var. Compressum. Kon modaghan ang Pyridium, mopula ang kolor sa dagat mao nga gitrawag kini ug red tide. Usa sa mga timailhan sa paralytic shell poisoning mao ang pagkaluya sa lawas, pagpalipong ug pagsuka-suka. Pero, giklaro sa BFAR nga mahimo pa gihapong kan-on ang mga isda, nukos, pasayan ug kasag gikan sa mga nasangpit nga lugar basta kuhaon lang ang sulod sa ginhawaan niini, sama sa hasang ug tinae sa di pa kini lutuon. Sa pagkakaron, sumala pa sa BFAR, walay red tide ang Manila Bay nga misakop sa Cavite; Las Pi単as; Para単aque; Navotas; Bulacan ug Bataan; mga kabaybayonan sa Bolinao; Anda; Alaminos; ug Bani sa Pangasinan; Milagros ug Mandaon sa Masbate;
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Juag Lagoon sa Matnog ug Sorsogon Bay sa Sorsogon; Bai ng Honda ug Puerto sa Puerto Princesa City; Inner malampaya Soiund sa Taytay, Palawan. Wala usay Red Tide sa mga baybayon ng Pilar, President Roxas, Pontevedra, Panay, Roxas City, Ivisan ug Sapian sa Capiz, mga baybayon sa EB Magalona, Pontevedra, Pulupandan, Valladolid, Talisay CIty, Silay City, Bacolod City, Hinigaran, Cadiz City, Victorias City, Bago City ug San Enrique, Negros Occidental; mga bai ng Irong-irong, Maqueda ug Vilareal sa Samar, Ormoc, mga bai sa San Pedro, Cancabato ugCarigara ng Leyte; katubigan ng Biliran, Biliran, mga bai sa Hinatuan, Bislig ug Lianga sa Surigao Del Sur; Balite bay sa Mati, Davao Oriental; ug Taguines Lagoon sa Benoni Mahinog, Camiguin Island.(JPA/ATR/ PIA9-Zambo Norte) Monday, September 12, 2011
Iligan city mulling on the establishment of cultural heritage park at Bayug Island by Melvin T. Anggot/Virgilio C. Garcia
ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, Sept. 12 (PIA) -- The administration of Mayor Lawrence Ll. Cruz is mulling over the idea of establishing a cultural heritage park at Bayug Island in Barangay Hinaplanon in this city. Architect Gil Balondo, City Planning and Development Coordinator, said the plan is included in the second draft of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan Updating which will be presented in a series of public consultations
next month. Balondo said the plan is to establish this Cultural Heritage Park in the vicinity of Bayug Island, composed of statues representing important personalities, telling the history of Iligan for the next generation.
As Chairperson of the Committee on History, Culture and the Arts, Kagawad Michelle Sweet of the Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP) has entertained and supported the idea and vowed to work for its realization. (CIO/PIA-10)
Cag. de Oro SP backs extension of services of DepEd Exec by Lorebeth C. Requiroso CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 12 (PIA) -- The 16th City Council headed by Vice Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas, on Tuesday, requested President Benigno Simeon Aquino III to extend the appointment of Dr. Myrna S. Motoomull as Division Superintendent of the Cagayan de Oro City Schools (CDOS). Kagawad Adrian Barba of the Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP), Chairperson of the Com-
mittee on Education, said Motoomull is scheduled to retire on December 27, this year.
A 4-month extension is being sought so that projects that have been launched this 24
Monday, September 12, 2011
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Cag. de Oro SP...from page 23 school year can be sustained, he said, as he lauded Dr. Motoomull for her performance and accomplishments. Barba said the Cagayan de Oro Teachers and Employees Association (COPTEA) has also called for this citing that Motoomull is currently working and advocating the program on K+12 in support of the government’s vision to improve the quality of
education of students in the city and to improve the achievement rate of secondary schools. Under the leadership of Motoomull, all Physics teachers are now trained in Learning Physics as One Nation (LPON) and that the CDOS is the only Schools Division in the whole country that implements the program. Another achievement of Motoomull is the
total computerization of the recording and evaluation of achievement in cooperation with Digital Information Systems and Technology, the first among all public schools in the country, the resolution cited. The extension will allow her and partner stakeholders to appreciate the outcome of the initial implementation of these projects, Barba added.(CIO/PIA-10)
Iligan Business Month celebration gains support from stakeholders by Melvin T. Anggot, Virgilio C. Garcia
ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, Sept. 12 –- Different groups of businessmen, national government agencies, institutions and offices, here, have expressed support to the Business Month celebration in October. This was manifested during the first stakeholders meeting held at the Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP) Session Hall, recently. A yearly event, the celebration will give a boost and spur business in the city with focus in business fora, conventions, conferences and trade exhibits, among others, to help the development of the busi-
ness sector in the city. Also known as “Asenso Iligan,” the Business Month celebration is one of the projects of Kagawad Frederick Siao of the Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP), Chairperson of the Committee on Trade, Commerce and Industry supported by Mayor Lawrence Ll. Cruz. It is the desire of the local government to make
this as an institution through a resolution passed to the council authored by Siao jointly with Kagawads Ruderic Marzo, Michelle Sweet and Marlene Young. Among the groups which expressed their support to Asenso Iligan were the following: Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation of Iligan, Iligan Bay Chamber of Industries, Iligan Hotel-Restaurants 25
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Monday, September 12, 2011
Iligan Business....from page 24 and Resorts Association, and Department of Trade and Industry.Department of Science and Technology, and Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, MSU-Iligan Institute
of Technology including the College of Business Administration and Accountancy.City Agriculture Office, Iligan Investment Promotions Center, City Information Office, Drugstore Association of the
Philippines-Iligan Chapter and others Kagawad Siao also plans to create a committee that will manage the Business Month Celebration. (CIO/PIA-10)
Misamis Occ solon supports DSWD’s request for higher budget by Charmaine P. Tadlas
OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Sept. 12 (PIA) -- Congressman Loreto Leo S. Ocampos of the 2nd District, this province, is supporting the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) proposal for a Php39 billion budget for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program in 2012. The Congressman said that he supports Secretary Corazon JulianoSoliman and sees the need to cover more households for the Program. “I go for the approval of the higher budget of Pantawid Pamilya for 2012, since many poor families can actually benefit from it,” he said. The Pantawid Pamilya is the conditional cash transfer (CCT) scheme of the national government which provides a maximum of Php1,400 to poor households for their children’s educational and health needs. In exchange for the subsidy, each household shall comply with their co-
Monday, September 12, 2011
responsibilities, such as, ensuring that their children are sent to school and have regular checkups and that household heads and their spouses shall also attend to Family Development Sessions of the Program. Cong. Ocampos saw that the DSWD’ Program has improved the quality of life of many families, thus, his support for Pantawid Pamilya. He emphasized however that the implementation of the Program needs fine-tuning in terms of its list of recipients, the speedy delivery of the cash assistance, and to strengthen the monitoring of the beneficiaries’ com-
pliance of their co-responsibilities in the Program. He also mentioned that the DSWD should also strengthen its coordination with the congressional offices believing that the latter can share their part in reinforcing Pantawid Pamilya’s objectives in helping the poor. Meanwhile, beneficiaries of the Program are also voicing out their support to Secretary Soliman for an increase in budget to P39 Billion for 2012. The Department of Social Welfare and Development is currently providing cash subsidy to 200,569 households in Region 10 alone.(PIA 10)
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COWD reminds senior citizens to renew discount privileges by Apipa Bagumbaran CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 12 (PIA) -The Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) is reminding its senior citizen-beneficiaries to visit their office and renew their discount privileges upon the expiration of their annual coverage. The remind- can apply for renewal To qualify for the er was sounded by starting this month discount, the monthLadele Sagrado, since we begun im- ly water consumption COWD’s Public Re- plementing the dis- of the senior citizen lations/Information count, September of should not exceed 30 Division Manager, 2010, Sagrado said. cu.m. and the meciting that the appli- She disclosed ter registration of cation for the avail- that some 810 senior the utility should be ment of the five per- citizens in the city in his/her name for cent (5%) discount have benefited from a period of one (1) on monthly water the monthly discount year. consumption is sub- during its first year of If the senior citiject to renewal, ev- implementation. zen has many resiery year. Sagrado also dential properties, This is embodied advised other regis- the privilege can in the implementing tered senior citizens be availed of only rules and regulations who want to avail of through the water of Republic Act 9994, the monthly water connection of his acotherwise known as discount to apply per- tual residence, Sathe Expanded Senior sonally at the COWD grado explained. Citizens Act of 2010, office. She further exwhich grants addi- If a senior citi- plained that the privtional benefits and zen is incapacitated, ilege will be granted privileges to the el- he/she may apply per household regardderly sector of the through a duly-au- less of the number of society, she said. thorized representa- senior citizens resid Senior citizens tive, she added. ing therein. (PIA10)
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Monday, September 12, 2011
Hot logs now used for school chairs by Mai Gevera-Macapagat
DAVAO CITY Sept. 12 (PIA) - Confiscated logs of about P3.4 million in value are donated to the Department of Education, Compostela Valley Province after seized at Sitio Baotohon, Laak, Compostela Valley Province . The said logs will be processed and made into chairs, tables, and desks to fill in school resources gaps experienced in the said province. The donation of confiscated logs is stated under the Executive Order 23 or a moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of timber in natural and residual forests in the country. In order to ensure that confiscated logs are put into good use, the DENR is instructed to donate those to the DepEd and have them made into school tables and chairs. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR XI) official Clyde Jumaoas reported during the Kapihan sa Dabaw yesterday (September 12) accomplishments of the the Task force Illegal Logging Monday, September 12, 2011
campaign headed by the DENR Secretary. Since the effectivity of EO 23 last February 1, 2011, DENR was able to confiscate 20,436 pieces of logs, with a volume of 3,060 cubic meters, and an estimated value of almost P9.5 million. DENR shares this accomplishment with the other members of the task force, claiming that it would be impossible for the agency to catch violators without the help of the local government unit, the Philippine National Police and other agencies. Jumaoas bared that the Province of Compostela Valley remains as the area where most of violations are detected. A decline in the number of violations was
observed in the Province of Davao Oriental since there are plenty of Integrated Forest Management Agreement (IFMA), Socialized Integrated Forest Management Agreement (SIFMA), Community-Based Forest Management (CBFMA) projects in the province. Aside from confiscating illegally cut logs, the DENR is also prohibited from issuing/ renewing tree cutting permits in all natural and residual forests nationwide, except for clearing of road right of way by the DPWH, site preparation for tree plantations, silvicultural treatment and similar activities, provided that all logs derived from the said cutting permits shall be turned over to the DENR for proper disposal. (PIA-XI)
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Davao as retirement haven DAVAO CITY Sept. 12 (PIA) --The Philippine Retirement Authority in Region XI sees Davao as a retirement haven as it has continually met its targets particularly in the number of retirees settling in the region. Jaime Llanes , PRA-XI head said that last 2010, they had processed 120 retirees who had settled in Davao more than their target of 100 retirees. This year the PRA had set again the target of 100 retirees for the region. As of this year the region has attracted 70 retirees with 12 more foreigners waiting for the processing of needed documents. “We are confident of again meeting our targets for this year.” Llanes said during the Kapehan sa Dabaw media forum held at Café Rhysus, SM Davao yesterday (Sept. 12). Davao City’s Region
XI is the top retiree’s choice here in Mindanao with Region X particularly Cagayan de Oro. Llanes said that misimpressions about Mindanao are immediately corrected when the retirees began settling here. “Sabi nila hindi pala totoo ang masasamang balita.” (they say that the bad news are not that true) Llanes tells of the retirees reactions when they began moving here. He said these retirees are in fact selling and promoting the region to their fellow countrymen. “I hadn’t heard a retiree who told me they didn’t like Davao. This place
is very likeable.” Llanes recounts their feedbacks. Chinese constitute the biggest number of retirees followed by the Koreans, Japanese, Americans and Europeans. The youngest retiree living in Davao is a 35-year old Chinese while the oldest is a Japanese retiree at 94 years old. Llanes said that as of the moment there are no retirement villages in Davao, the retirees are living in houses scattered around the Davao City and nearby provinces. (PIA/RG Alama)
Davao obstetricians intensifies information drive on RH in communities by Carina L. Cayon DAVAO CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) – Davao’s Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society has conducted rounds of information drive in the grassroots communities here to enlighten the households on the benefits of the reproductive health concerns. POGS official for stand to support the RH scientifically explain about Southern Mindanao Dr. Bill, the group has been the health issue and to Geraldine dela Victoria cascading lay lectures counter misinformation. said that in line with their in the barangays to Dela Victoria said that 29
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Monday, September 12, 2011
Davao obstetricians....from page 28
POGS in the region has decided to take favorable stance on RH Bill which would signify their firm position and advocacy on “no to abortion.” “The RH Bill is not an abortion bill,” she stressed refuting claims of the anti-RH groups which she alleged are providing misinformation to the public. Out of about 150 members of POGS in the city, Dela Victoria bared that only one or two have sided against RH Bill. She said there are around 170 POGS members in Davao Region. In the RH health forum held at the community level, members of POGS in Davao Region would make corrections on misinformation and would urge the households not to believe on hearsays. “They (households) should ask the health providers instead who could provide the right information,” Dela Victoria stated in a press conference held recently Monday, September 12, 2011
in the city. She said that during the barangay forum, the obstetricians would reiterate that RH Bill provides options for the couple to choose from the natural means of family planning or the modern way. “We explain the appropriate contraceptive that is best for each woman,” the lady physician stated, adding “each woman has her own kind of contraceptive that is suitable for her.” Dela Victoria countered misinformation on taking artificial contraceptives particularly on pills, saying “mas maraming namamatay sa panganganak ng marami kaysa sa nag-take ng pills.” She bared that contraceptive pills which she said are recommended for women in their 20’s to 30’s, are now recommended for low doses “just enough not to get pregnant and not to have side effects.”
She stressed that the group would also want to make known that RH Bill is not just concerned on family planning but is also looking at the reproductive health rights and programs for the adolescents and elderly female and male at the menopausal stage. Aside from the RH health forum, Dela Victoria said that POGS is also helping the government in providing maternal health care services at the barangay for free such as family planning orientation and ligation. She said the group is conducting annually the “Buntis Day” where all pregnant women are gathered in a forum and given health care services for free. POGS was among the RH advocates in Davao City who joined the recent launching of the Purple Ribbon Campaign to intensify the call for legislators to swiftly act on the RH Bill pending at the Congress. (PIA-XI)
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Tagum City to focus on shelter for poor, displaced families TAGUM CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA) -- To sustain noteworthy accomplishments for children and education, Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy is focusing on providing decent homes for urban poor and displaced families. In an interview, Uy revealed efforts on properly relocating some 2,000 families who will be displaced due to expanding commercial ventures at the urban centers. A 30-hectare lot is now being prepared to accommodate those who will be affected but he assured that the relocated families will find the new area a much better place they will be living in than where they previously live. All weather dirt road will lead to the relocation site which will be installed with drainage system including septic tanks, power connection and water supply. “There’s no reason for them to complain. Kita diri kuliton kanus-a man mi nimo ibalhin mayor. “ (They are the ones urging us when they will be relocated.) he said referring to those who will be relocated. Uy is also making it sure that displaced families due to commercial center
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expansion will not be deprived of access to their means of livelihood. “Naa ra sa sentro (it’s just in the city center) three kilometers lang from the commercial district,” he said of the relocation site. Uy said that he wanted to properly transfer those affected by commercial expansion because they are the homes of the drivers, the laborers, the sales assistants and other ordinary workers whom he called as “our economic drivers.” “Those who have less in life should have more of government services,” he said during the interview. Meanwhile, Uy revealed that this year, he placed P4 million fund for the Shelter Assistance Program dubbed as “Lingap Pinuyanan” aimed at renovating dilapidated houses of poor families. Implemented starting late last year, the Lingap Pinuy-anan has made homes much better for 500 families but Uy wants to reach out to
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2,000 families more before his term ends, through such shelter program. Under Lingap Pinuyanan, the City government employees are being tapped as volunteers to help in construction work during their off hours either on Saturday or Sunday. Tagum City has featured Lingap Pinuy-anan Shelter Program as among its major accomplishment for the benefit of the children in its bid for the Presidential Child-Friendly Award component city category. Tagum City has been a consecutive regional winner of the child-friendly award, and this year, it hopes to grab the national recognition as child-friendly city. Aside from championing children’s cause, the city is also being recognized this year as the national literacy winner and that it grabs an international award on literacy given by UNESCO. (PIA XI/ jeanevive duron-abangan)
Monday, September 12, 2011
Civil Service set to improve government efficiency DAVAO DEL NORTE, Sept. 12, (PIA) -- Inefficiencies in government offices are seen to be addressed now that the Civil Service Commission (CSC) has leveled up the standard of quality in rendering government service. G uest ing in the K apihan sa Ka pitolyo, CS C Davao del N orte P rovincial Di rector M a . F a ith Presb itero sa id th is year ’s th em e in c e le brat ing this m onth t he Philippine Civil S ervice 111 th ye ar adv ances t he thrust o f CS C t o wield a m uch better way of providin g gov ernment service s. This year’s Civil Service celebration banners the theme: “Championing R.A.C.E.: Public Service at Full Speed, which brings a message of building a responsive, accessible, courteous and effective public service. Presbitero believes that with the R.A.C.E. principle of public service, the government will be gaining the trust and confidence of more people. “Wala na tong mahadlok nga moadto sa opisina sa gobyerno,” she said. The memorandum circular of CSC signed Monday, September 12, 2011
on July 22, 2011 by CSC Chairperson Francisco Duque III states that this year’s Civil Service celebration is anchored on President Benigno S. Aquino’s call for “reform, daang matuwid, and on his pledge to implement change in government,” and that it aims to “showcase and celebrate reforms and milestones of government agencies as they fulfill their respective mandates.” “The theme urges civil servants nationwide to respond to call for change and be servant-heroes,” Duque said. CSC has lined up suggested activities at the national level such as conducting the Honor Awards Program (HAP) rites for the 2011 Presidential Lingkod Bayan, Dangal ng Bayan, and CSC Pag-asa Awardees. It also sets to organize R.A.C.E. to Serve Fun Run, and contests on photography, chorale,
essay writing and graphic designing. At the provincial level, the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte through the Provincial Human Resource Management Office has also lined up activities in line with the Philippine Civil Service 111th anniversary. PHRMO department head Monica Salido said there will be training and seminars on stress management, communication skills, personality development, nutrition for elders. Activities on physical development of provincial government employees will include the Pinoy Biggest Loser Davao del Norte Capitol Edition and Capitolympics 2011. There will also be free health care services and a talent search activity dubbed as Capitol DavNor Got Talent 2011. (PIA XI/ jeane duronabangan)
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