PIA REGIONAL OFFICES
In This Issue...
IN MINDANAO
Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula) 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
• Aquino declares September 26, as “Save Sierra Madre Day” • Aquino keen on National Broadband Network but not revival of NBN-ZTE deal • Aquino swears in Tourism secretary, other new appointees, generals and flag officers of AFP • Aquino set for two more foreign travels
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
Northern Mindanao •New RTWPB-X location more accessible to the public • NorMin PNP reports a CSE of 24.67percent in first semester of 2011 • Rep. Benaldo of Cag. de Oro’s 1st District releases P5-M for the city’s poor • City Dads propose law requiring registration of guns, ammo buyers • LGU Kauswagan Lanao Norte completes Php13.75M infra projects
Southern Mindanao (Davao 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
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region) • An Irish experience in the Mindanao peace process • Youth eyed as partners in crime prevention • DavSur business fair signals economic growth • Philhealth starts per-case payment scheme • Davao RH advocates to launch Purple Ribbon campaign
Central Mindanao (SOCSKSARGEN) 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
Central Mindanao (SOCSKSARGEN) • MGB 12 urges residents to be vigilant against possible disasters • Tacurong is region’s most child-friendly city • Tagalog News:Pagbisita ng LBK Bus sa S. Cotabato muling pinagpaliban • Tagalog News: RTWPB 12 muling magpupulong hinggil sa posibilidad ng pag-repaso ng sahod • Tagaloog News: BFAR may scholarship para sa mga anak ng manging isda
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga) Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg., J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239 Telefax no. (085) 341-2370 Cellphone no. 0917-7188834 Email: piacaraga@gmail.com pia_caraga@yahoo.com,ph
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)
OUR COVER Today’s cover
features the
Voyage
of the
BALANGAY, BUTUAN’S
2
NATIONAL
ancient boat
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• Giant female cros captured, mate still astray • “JYES Kontra Droga” launched in Surigao del Sur • ILO-DOLE-DTI climate change adaptation project now testing financing schemes in Agusan Norte towns • DILG XIII supports CSC Month, Nat’l Filipino Family, Crime Prevention Week celebrations • Caraga to join Mindanao ONE
Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula) • • • •
“Kurambos” livelihood project launched in La Libertad town DOLE bats for community tourism promotion ARMM introduces Islam-friendly family planning program City government tries to keep ends meet for 2012 with reduced IRA
PHOTO CREDITS Allan Claudio de Lima
Balangay Diwata ng Lahi
Monday, September 5, 2011
Cover Story:
Voyage of the Balangays:
T
by Robert E. Roperos
Our culture’s pride
Bhousands of years ago, the ancestors of the Filipino people, the Austronesian speaking people traveled from the Asian mainland by land bridges across the continental shelf to the South East Asian archipelago. They then sailed onward to as far as East as Polynesia, and as far West as Madagascar, aboard the ancient vessel – the Balangay.
The Butuan Boats (Balangay) represent an important part of the understanding of Southeast Asian shipbuilding technology. The Balangay
gave ancient Filipinos the power to rule the Asian seas and became the vehicle of inter-actions among peoples of our islands. Butuan has a spe-
cial historical role as an ancient trading harbor that sent the first recorded tribute mission to the Chinese Empire from the Philippine islands a thou4
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Voyage of the balangays... from page 3
sand years ago, and was of the balangay boat portant archaeological the site of the discovery relics and other im- discoveries.
R
oute Highlights
On September 1, 2009, Balangay “Diwata ng Lahi” left CCP Complex, Manila to start the Voyage of the Balangay. On the fourth day of February, 2010, Balangays “Masawa Hong Butuan” and “Diwata ng Lahi” left Butuan City to continue the Voyage of the Balangay around Mindanao and Southeast Asia. Six days after the launching, Balangay “Sama Tawi-Tawi” left
Butuan City to rendezvous with Balangay “Masawa Hong Butuan” and Balangay “Diwata ng Lahi” in Zamboanga City. It was on August 1, 2010 when the three balangays left Paseo del Mar, Zamboanga City for travel to Sulu and Tawi-Tawi before crossing international waters towards Sabah, Malaysia. Two weeks later, the balangay flotilla crossed international waters from
Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi and arrived in Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, its 81st port of call and first in international voyage. This is on August 15, 2010. Two months after – that is, October 26, 2010, the balangay flotilla left Sihanoukville, Cambodia for the return trip to the Philippines after travelling around Southeast Asia. Sihanoukville is the 101st port of call and 21st in international voyage. 5
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Monday, September 5, 2011
Route Highlights... from page 4
During this period, the crews were able to visit the countries: Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia and the waters of Vietnam. November 16, 2010… the balangay flotilla re-entered Philippine waters from Pulau Banggi,
Malaysia to Balabac, Palawan. Nearly a month after (December 13, 2010), the balangay flotilla reached CCP Complex, Manila after more than 15 months of sailing around the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
It was on January 21, 2011 when Balangay “Masawa Hong Butuan” begins the journey home to Butuan City from CCP Complex, Manila, escorted by Balangay “Sama Tawi-tawi,” the third Balangay boat that is constructed in Butuan City.
T
he Voyage
The Voyage of the Balangay was undertaken to rekindle the maritime consciousness among our people and to reconnect our country’s present with its glorious historical
past. The voyage aimed to bring us back to the greatness of our ancestors and how colonialism robbed us of our proud heritage and produced the Filipino of today.
The voyage affords us an insight and appreciation into our maritime past, a phase in our history that has almost been lost in our consciousness. The success of the expedition 6
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The Voyage... from page 5
along the coastlines of the Philippines and the countries of Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, and waters of Vietnam confirm the trading constellation of the ancient Asian realms. The balangay
T
boat has become the symbol of basic political governance in our country – the barangay. Indeed, the voyage proved to the Filipino people that like what our ancestors have done, Filipinos can achieve any goal that
they will work together to attain. The Voyage of the Balangay showed to our Southeast Asian neighbors that the seas do not divide us but actually unite us as a people with mutual interests and common aspirations.
he homecoming
On February 4, 2011, 42 navigators arrived at the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) grounds, in Butuan City, bringing with them memories they will always remember.
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Not minding the risk, the crew, composed of professionals in different fields of specialization sacrificed their respective careers to give pride and honor to the country as
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they traced back the history of our ancestors’ migration across the oceans using only the native Balangay boats. It is but fitting that these unsung heroes of the 7
Monday, September 5, 2011
The homecoming... from page 6
present generation will be given due recognition not only by Butuanons but as well as the entire Filipino race because of their courage and determination to trace back our history… which forms part of the Asian and world history. During the ceremony, the people of Butuan, through the city government headed by Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante Jr. paid tribute to the gallant Monday, September 5, 2011
seafarers of the modern times as they rekindled their experiences during the almost six months of travelling the ocean traversing the coastal waters of the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Cambodia and Thailand. Bringing with them memories, the 42 men and women-crew of the three balangay boats: “Diwata ng Lahi”, “Masawa Hong Butuan,” and
“Sama Tawi-tawi” will always remain heroes in the heart and soul of not only the present generation but more to the future generations. To the crew and members of the Butuan Global Foundation who made the voyage possible, we are proud of you… you have proven your words: “Kaya ng Pinoy” (The Pinoys can)… and indeed, you really did it! (PIA-Caraga)
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Aquino declares September 26, as “Save Sierra Madre Day”
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III declared September 26, 2011 as Save Sierra Madre Day.
Proclamation No. 233 was signed on August 10, 2011 by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. to step up efforts for “the rehabilitation, reforestation, protection and conservation of the Sierra Madre Mountains.” The President noted that most of the flooding can be attributed to the continuous deforestation of the Sierra Madre Mountains. “On September
26, 2009, “Typhoon Ondoy” brought upon our country continuous heavy rains that caused flooding in major cities and also took the lives of many of our countrymen,” the President said. President Aquino said the proclamation will help boost awareness among the general public on the importance of preserving the forest as well as protecting the natural re-
sources of the country. The Save Sierra Madre Day coincides with the day the deadly typhoon Ondoy brought devastation to Metro Manila and other nearby provinces. The Sierra Madre is the longest mountain range in the Philippines. The range starts in the province of Cagayan and ends in the province of Quezon, just east of Laguna de Bay. (JS)
Aquino keen on National Broadband Network but not revival of NBN-ZTE deal
W
hile he noted a need for a national broadband network, President Benigno S. Aquino III made it clear that he is not in favor of reviving the controversial NBN-ZTE broadband project for the government.
During a chance canang, President is a need for a broadinterview in Mala- Aquino said that there band and the Depart9
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Monday, September 5, 2011
Aquino keen... from page 8
ment of Science and Technology (DOST) is currently “inventorying what we have” as the basis for the broadband network. “Now, if there is need to engage the telcos, which was my position, they are already ready as far as a broadband is concerned,” he said after the oath-taking of appointed government officials, and generals
and flag officers. “So [as for] reviving something similar to the ZTE, no way. Pero utilizing what we already have to meet the needs, and that is currently being assessed, the plan is being drawn up by DOST,” the president stressed. The controversial P330-million national broadband network (NBN) deal between
the Philippines and China’s ZTE Corp. was cancelled in 2007 after news about anomalous government contracts came out. “Coincidentally, nag-report ang DOST kung gaano kamali iyong ZTE na project at kung gaano ka-obsolete by the time it would have been set up,” President Aquino added. (CO)
Aquino swears in Tourism secretary, other new appointees, generals and flag officers of AFP
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III has sworn into office a group of newly-appointed government officials led by Tourism Secretary Ramon Reyes Jimenez Jr. as well as several generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
In simple ceremonies held at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of the Malacanang Palace, Monday morning, Secretary Jimenez took his oath of office before the President as acting Secretary for the
Department of Tourism (DOT) followed by several newlyappointed officials of the government. Other officials who were administered oath include Ambassador Leslie Gatan, Philip-
pine Ambassador to Canada-Department of Foreign Affairs; Eduardo Batac, Undersecretary of Department of National Defense; Ibarra Gutierrez III, Undersecretary for the Presidential Adviser 10
Monday, September 5, 2011
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Aquino swears... from page 9
on Political Affairs; Jose Mari Oquinena, Undersecretary for Special Concern-Presidential Communications Operations Office; Ernesto Ramel Jr., Assistant Secretary for the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs; Atty. Lesley Jeanne Cordero, Assistant SecretaryPresidential Communications Operations Office; Christian Robert Lim, Commissioner-Commission on Elections; Ma. Josefina dela Cruz, Postmaster G e n e ra l - P h i l p o s t ; Ramon Liwag, Admiral, Philippine Coastguard-Department of Transportation and Communications; Gregorio Ramon Tingson, C o m m i s s i o n e r-a tlarge-National Youth Commission under
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the Office of the President; Jennifer Lagbas, Commissioner representing the Business and Industry Sector-Philippine Commission on Women under the Office of the President; Atty. Abdullah Mangotara, Deputy Commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration-Department of Justice and Robert Nomar Leyretana, Acting Deputy Administrator, Land Registration Authority-Department of Justice. The Generals and Flag Officers who took their oath before the Chief Executive were MGen. Anthony Alcantara, Lieutenant General; Commodore Honorio Balanon Jr., Rear Admiral; Commodore Armando Guzman, Rear Ad-
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miral; BGen. Joel Marayag, Major General; BGen. Noel Coballes, Major General; Col. Caesar Ronnie Ordoyo, Brigadier General; Col. Da nilo Fabian, Briga dier General; Col. Reynaldo Torres, Brigadier General; Col. Teodoro Cirilo Torralba, Brigadier General; Capt. Jose Renan Suarez, Commodore; Capt. Jesus Millan, Commodore; Col. Edgar Fallorina, Brigadier General; Capt. Romeo Santiago Nebres, Commodore; Col. Au g u s t o To l e n t i n o, Brigadier General; Col. Leonido Bongcawil, Brigadier General; Col.Leo Cresente Ferrer, Brigadier General and Capt. Rufino Tiangco, Commodore. (JCL) Monday, September 5, 2011
Aquino set for two more foreign travels
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III will embark on two foreign travels in the coming weeks aimed at promoting the country for possible new investments that will enhance the government’s efforts to effect change and development for the country and the Filipino people
In an ambush interview following the Oathtaking Ceremonies of newly-appointed government officials, generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of the Malacanang Palace, Monday, President Aquino confirmed his scheduled trips to the United States and Japan as he assured the people of bringing home another batch of “good news” concerning the country’s economic progress. The Chief Executive said that first on the list of his itinMonday, September 5, 2011
erary is the trip to Washington and New York upon the invitation of US President Barrack Obama for the partnership in open governance. “There are two, America and Japan. America will be first… it’s Washington and New York. We are going… on President Obama’s invitation for the partnership for open governance. I think, I will be talking also before the World Bank there,” the President said. President Aquino said that the US event also involves 12 other participating countries from various parts of the
world and two from Asia – Indonesia and the Philippines. When asked on the details of his Japan trip, the President said that it will be an official visit. President Aquino returned home on Saturday evening from a very successful five-day State Visit to the People’s Republic of China bringing home billions-of-dollarsworth of new investments, newly-signed developmental agreements between the two countries and the peaceful resolution on issues in the West Philippine Sea. (JCL)
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New RTWPB-X location more accessible to the public by Odette Leh V. Caragos CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 5 (PIA) – Increase in the number of walk-in clients due to more accessible location to the public and reduction in electricity costs due to adequate ventilation. These are only some of the perceived advantages that the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board, region 10 (RTWPB-X) has derived from its new location at the 3F, FICCO Building, TianoAbellanosa Sts., this city. Lawyer Alan M. Macaraya, Chairperson of RTWPB-X, who is also the Regional Director of the Department of Labor and Employment, region 10 (DOLE-10), said the Boards’s new location also results in increased program visibility of the Information, Education and Communication Materials (IECM) of OPLAN
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PAWIS. It also provides ample space for hanging and mounting , in conspicuous places, productivity programs including the Labor Relations, Human Relations and Productivity Training (LHP) and Technical Assistance Visit (TAV) training technologies, the organizational chart, citizens’ charter and process flow charts of Minimum Wage Fixing and other related matters. Particularly, the Board’s new location has the following advantages: It has a floor area of 128 sq.m. or 24% bigger than the
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previous office, and pays a rent of Php170/ per sq.m. saving 50% on rent since negotiations were done while building construction was still on-going. Meanwhile, the blessing and dedication of its new location was held during the recent visit to the city of DOLE Secretary Rosalinda DimapilisBaldoz, who was accompanied by USEC Lourdes M. Trasmonte, with the presence of the Regional Board-X members, NLRC-X Commissioners and heads of the DOLE-X Regional Coordinating Council. (RTWPB/PIA-10) Monday, September 5, 2011
NorMin PNP reports a CSE of 24.67percent in first semester of 2011 by Elaine O. Ratunil CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 5 (PIA) -- A crime solution efficiency (CSE) of 24.67 percent was reported by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Northern Mindanao, when it solved 2,115 out of 8,574 crimes, during the first semester of the year. “This was actually 4.58 percent higher compared to the 20.09 percent CSE reported in the same period of 2010,” said P/Supt. Robert Rodelas Baesa of the Regional Police Community Relations Division (RPCRD), region 10, at the opening of the 17th National Crime Prevention Week (NCPW), in the region. Observed from Sept. 1-7, this year, the NCPW activities are anchored on theme: “Pinoy Ako, Crime Prevention Misyon Ko,” complemented by the proactive slogan, “Knock Out Crime,” to promote community involvement and participation in crime prevention. Baesa said Lanao del Norte reported the Monday, September 5, 2011
highest CSE with 51.70 percent, followed by Iligan City, 28.61 percent, Camiguin, 27.27 percent, Misamis Occidental, 25.50 percent, Bukidnon, 24.05 percent, Cagayan de Oro City, 23.19 percent and Misamis Oriental, the lowest CSE of 16.08 percent Likewise, the Average Monthly Crime Rate (AMCR) was reported at 34.03 percent, down by 3.36 percent, compared to 37.39 percent AMCR of the same period last year. Cagayan de Oro City also reported the highest AMCR of 56.73 percent, followed by Iligan City, 52.77 percent, Camiguin, 36.35 percent, Misamis Oriental, 34.03 percent, Bukidnon, 29.32 per-
cent, Misamis Occidental, 29.16 percent and Lanao del Norte, the lowest, with 11.31 percent. Baesa also said the Average Monthly Index Crime Rate (AMICR) was reported at 25.48 percent, down by 6.36 percent, compared to 27.21 percent, during the same period , last year. Iligan City registered the highest AMICR of 42.78 percent, followed by Cagayan de Oro City, 39.09 percent , Camiguin, 24.99 percent, Bukidnon, 24.68 percent, Misamis Oriental, 23.19 percent, Misamis Occidental, 20.33 percent, and Lanao del Norte, the lowest AMICR of 8.09 percent. (PIA-10)
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Rep. Benaldo of Cag. de Oro’s 1st District releases P5-M for the city’s poor by Lorebeth C. Requiroso
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 5 (PIA) – City Mayor Vicente Y. Emano thanked Rep. Jose Benjamin Benaldo of the city 1st Congressional District for releasing funds for livelihood, assistance to the city’s less privileged sector. This, after Rep. Benaldo released Php5 million to the city from his congressional fund. The mayor said this will be used to assist the city’s marginalized sector: Php150,000 will go to the livelihood program of the Lupong Tagapamayapa and
Php350,000 for the poor patients admitted at the city-run J.R. Borja General Hospital. The other P4.5 million will be spent to provide relief to poor families in terms of food assistance during typhoons and disasters, feeding program, medicines, and even
for burial assistance. “Kining maong mga hinabang, tipik lamang sa daghang mga proyekto nga gilusad karon ni Rep. Benaldo (this money is only some of the many projects of Rep. Benaldo in the city),” the Mayor said. (CIO/ PIA-10)
City Dads propose law requiring registration of guns, ammo buyers by Lorebeth C. Requiroso CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, Sept. 5 (PIA) -- Kagawads Ian Mark Nacaya and Juan Sia of the Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP) are now drafting a proposed ordinance that will mandate establishments selling guns and ammunitions to register all purchases made from them. This, after the authors of the ordinance noted reports indicating that most crimes have been committed using unlicensed firearms. Kagawad Nacaya, who is the Chairperson
of the Committee on Police, Fire and Public Safety, said the name, address, age, goods bought and other information should be recorded by the company selling these fireams. He said the move
is in line with the campaign to boost the city’s peace and order drive. The proposed law will make it easier for authorities to identify ownership of guns and ammunitions and oth15
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Monday, September 5, 2011
City Dads... from page 14
er information, when these are needed. During recent meetings, the Ca-
gayan de Oro Police Office (COCPO) informed the committee that Oplan Bakal, a
nationwide campaign of the Philippine National Police is on-going. (CIO/PIA-10)
LGU Kauswagan Lanao Norte completes Php13.75M infra projects KAUSWAGAN, Lanao del Norte, Sept. 5 (PIA) – Some Php13.75 million worth of infrastructure have been completed, here, as of December, last year. by Diony Fuentes Mayor Rommel C. Arnado said these projects which were implemented under the new framework of the Sustainable Integrated Kauwsagan Area Development and Peace Agenda (SIKAD PA) include the following: Rehabilitation of the Baraason-Poona Piagapo Road with a cost of Php4.20 million funded by the UN-GEM and construction of box culvert with development approach road at Upper Bagumbayan with a cost of Php3.24 million. Beautification of the Municipal Plaza with a cost of Php2.0 million, rehabilitation of the Municipal Gymnasium at Php3.0 million and rehabilitation of the Monday, September 5, 2011
Municipal Hall, Php1.0 million. Completion of Municipal Tennis Court at Php300,000 and completion of the drainage systems in Barangay Poblacion at Php100,000. Meanwhile, Arnado said the LGU will continue to endeavor towards the development of its social services for the support of all the health services program of the government. These health programs include the implementation of an immunization system, provision of medicines, and the rehabilitation of the Tuberculosis (TB) Directly Observed Treatment System (DOTS) and the lying-in rooms at the Municipal Health Center.
Construction of the Barangay Health Center in Barangays Tugar, Libertad and Bagumbayan as part of the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Provision of Level II Water System in Tugar and Bagumbayan, as part of the Assisi Development Foundation Program, provision of livelihood for the indigents, the women, persons with disabilities (PWD), senior citizens and the continued barangay medical clinic with the Philippine Army (PA), the non-governmental/public organizations. (MIO/ PIA-10)
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An Irish experience in the Mindanao peace process DAVAO CITY Sept. 5 (PIA) – On April 10 1998, an agreement was signed by the British and Irish governments and most of Northern Ireland’s political parties. Known as the Good Friday Agreement (Belfast Agreement) it was a landmark document which meant the end of a 30-year conflict in Northern Ireland. Sharing his experiences on forging that long elusive Irish peace, Deputy Dominic Hannigan, Irish member of Parliament and implementing chair of the Good Friday Agreement, is on a three-week visit to Mindanao in sharing to various Mindanao peace process partners and stakeholders his Irish peace experience. Acting as a volunteer of VSO Bahaginan, an international development organization, Hannigan will begin his tour meeting up with various parties involved in the Mindanao Peace
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Process. “My role is to meet with various groups (peace organizations, the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front) to share our experience in the peace process in Ireland,” Hannigan said during a media interview at the Kapehan sa Dabaw forum held today (Sept. 5) at Café Rhysus, SM Davao. He said that the conflicts all over the world share some common issues. He cited the war in Ireland which centered on lack of autonomy, lack of education and civil rights and
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economic deprivation, problems which resonates with the conflict in Mindanao. Hannigan said that trust and compromise on all sides is very crucial in the negotiations. “The way to achieve it is by going as far as you can and taking another step,” Hannigan stated. A l s o, h e e x h o r ted peace advocates to stick with their efforts in promoting peace. He said there will come a time that the parties to the conflict would really w a n t t o e n d t h e w a r. (PIA-11/Rudolph G. Alama) Monday, September 5, 2011
Youth eyed as partners in crime prevention by Mai Gevera-Macapagat DAVAO CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) – The National Police Commission (Napolcom) focuses on youth participation in celebrating the 17th year of National Crime Prevention Week which is observed starting September 1. Napolcom legal c o u n s e l A t t y. M a rco Pineda said this y e a r ’s c e l e b ra t i o n i s also anchored to the International Ye a r o f t h e Yo u t h a s t h e y are considered vital component in the fight for crime prevention. Napolcom urges the youth to be cautious in dangerous situation and avoid them as much as possible. Pineda cited that joining gangs or bad “barkada” often results to fighting or getting into illegal activities like drugs.
To reach-out to the youth and have this campaign rolled out, member agencies of the National Crime Prevention Week conducted symposia on crime prevention and drug dependency control in schools starting September 2 until 23. The youth is also encouraged to be vigilant by reporting suspicious characters in the commun i t y. T h i s w a y, t h e y could also help the Philippine National Po l i c e i n c a r r y i n g out peace and order
functions. Their involvement in the conduct of activities for the celebration of the Crime Prevention Week was also highlighted. Other activities plotted out for the week-long celebration include the Exhibit at Abreeza Mall and SM Davao. Information, education materials on crime prevention and drug dependency prevention and control will be provided for visitors. (PIA-11/ Mai Gevera-Macapagat)
DavSur business fair signals economic growth by Carina L. Cayon DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur, Sept. 5 (PIA) – The recentlyheld business fair here gathered majority of the existing big businesses, micro, small and medium enterprises, and potential investors, signifying a keen prospect of economic growth for the province. 18
Monday, September 5, 2011
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DavSur business... from page 17
Some 63 exhibitors from the private business sector, the academe and various government agencies participated in the twoday Livelihood Encounter held on September 2-3 at Crisbel Crown Convention Center in Digos City. The business fair presented an eight-inone package of various business ideas, technological updates, franchising and subcontracting opportunities, market prospects, new product and packaging design concepts, skills and job breaks as well as financing facilities, among others. Among the eight highlights of the trade event that brought in interested individuals and institutions for two days were the franchising and direct selling show, technology exhibit and skills development caravan. The other activities introduced the reverse trade and subcon fair, and featured packaging and prod-
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uct development clinic, product showcase, micro financing and business licensing and registration. Davao del Sur provincial director Edwin O. Banquerigo of the Department of Trade and Industry, who initiated the so-called first its kind in Davao Region and perhaps in Mindanao, stressed the event’s goal of soaring up economic development and providing help to the province’s constituents “to live a better life.” Banquerigo cited the reverse trade and sub-con fair as one opportunity of linking farmers to local and multi-national companies in the province which would require agricultural resources for their respective products. For instance, the CJ Toyota Tsusho Philippines, Inc. based in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, needs 350 metric tons of coconut shells per day for the production of D-Xylose prod-
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uct or sugar product extracted from coconut shells, which is for export. The Lapanday Foods Corporations also participated in the reverse trade and subcon fair, inviting farmers to engage in contract growing with said company which needs a 1,000-hectare area. DTI regional director Marizon Loreto said “Davao del Sur is gifted with many resources to supply requirements in the local and international markets.” Ascribing to the environment trait of the province and to the programs of local officials, Loreto named Davao del Sur to be home of multi-national companies, saying “The province has been given the environment level to be the playing field for them (companies) to do business here.” She expressed hopes that more companies and homegrown entrepreneurs would make business in Davao del Sur. 19
Monday, September 5, 2011
DavSur business... from page 18
Meanwhile, Governor Douglas Ra. Cagas lauded DTI for initiating the Livelihood Encounter in the province, relating the event as part of the realization of his I-HELP +++ project which stands for infrastructures, health, education and livelihood. Cagas stressed on the event’s significance and need to improve the living condition of the people, revealing a recently released survey result on poverty incidence in Digos City.
Though he was not able to provide the number of respondents, the governor bared that the survey indicated a 50 percent poverty incidence among the respondents from the 26 barangays in Digos City who are earning P5,000 and below per month. However, Cagas was still optimistic saying, “There’s still hope for the people of Davao del Sur.” He urged his constituents to persevere and continue hoping for the best.
“What you have learned from the trade fair such as new skills, you should make use of it to help your families,” the governor encouraged the participants and guests during his inspirational message at the business fair. He bared his plan to repeat the a c t i v i t y n e x t y e a r, which he said would b e h e l d a t t h e D a va o del Sur Sports Complex and Business C e n t e r. (PIA-11/ Carina L. Cayon)
Philhealth starts per-case payment scheme by Mai Gevera-Macapagat DAVAO CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) – For faster processing and payment of health insurance claims, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) now starts a new payment scheme known as per-case payment or packages of health care services. Philhealth XI regional director Dr. Hector Zenon Malate explained that health care providers are paid in a pre-determined fixed rate for each treated case re-
gardless of hospital category and length of hospitalization. “This new scheme would benefit our members since it will be easier for them to determine their
Philhealth benefit for each of the services availed of since it is more transparent,” Malate said. Similarly designed to the existing packages like 20
Monday, September 5, 2011
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19
Philhealth starts... from page 19
Maternity Care, Newborn Care, Cataract, Malaria, and TB-DOTS, these new eleven common medical cases and 12 surgical cases follow the same concept and principle. When a patient is diagnosed and confined for dengue, classified with dengue hemorrhagic fever Grades 3 and 4, a patient is immediately covered P16,000 as a Philhealth benefit. Other medical cases identified and recognized by Philhealth are pneumonia, essential hypertension, cerebral infarction, cerebrovascular accident,
acute gastroenteritis, asthma, typhoid fever, and newborn case. Surgical procedures which have predetermined rates are the following: radiotherapy, hemodialysis, maternity care, normal spontaneous delivery, ceasarean section, appendectomy, cholecystectomy, dilatation and curettage, thyroidectomy, herniorrhaphy, mastectomy, hysterectomy, and cataract surgery. These medical and surgical cases were determined based on the top conditions and procedures paid by Philhealth in
the past years, which consist of 49 percent of the total claims processed and paid by Philhealth nationwide. The rates are inclusive of professional fees of all doctors which is 30% for medical cases and 40% for surgical cases. This Philhealth Case Rate is in line with President Benigno Aquino’s thrust to attain Universal Health Coverage in three years in which Philhealth is mandated to continuously improve the benefits of the members. (PIA-11/Mai Gevera-Macapagat)
Davao RH advocates to launch Purple Ribbon campaign by Carina L. Cayon
DAVAO CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) – Reproductive health advocates including a group of Catholic lay leaders here are set to launch on Wednesday the Purple Ribbon Campaign in the city, designed to be celebrated in a festive mood to call on legislators for the immediate passage of RH Bill. 21
20
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Monday, September 5, 2011
Davao RH... from page 20
The Population Division of the City Health Office and the Catholics for Reproductive Health (C4RH)-Davao Chapter will be joining other RH supporters from other various points in the country in a simultaneous launching of the Purple Ribbon Campaign on September 7 in Davao City. The launching will commence with a motorcade at 8:00 in the morning, and will be followed with a press conference at 11:00 a.m. at Grand Menseng Hotel, where some key leaders in the campaign from the local and national secretariat will discuss the rationale of the event. The activity will culminate with the proper campaign Monday, September 5, 2011
launching at 4:00 in the afternoon, at People’s Park. In an invitation letter, the CHO and the C4RH stressed on the need to promote reproductive health and the RH bill to address confusion among many Filipinos especially the youth, which the groups said are due to the controversies raised by the strong opposition of a select group of Catholic church leaders. Chief of CHO population division Nenita G. Monsanto and C4RH Davao coordinator Jeff Fuentes bared of several national surveys showing majority of Filipino Catholics and other religions have expressed support to RH and RH Bill. They said that this only signifies that “there is noth-
ing contradictory between religious foundations and the principles promoted by RH.” Monsanto and Fuentes further raised the importance of popularizing the thought that “religion and reproductive health are not enemies but are mutually complementing each other in the light of celebrating human freedom and human rights.” They explained that C4RH is a movement organized by a group of Catholic lay leaders who believe that “Catholism and Reproductive health promote the same principles of respect for human rights and human dignity.” (PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon)
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MGB 12 urges residents to be vigilant against possible disasters by Dani Doguiles
KORONADAL CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) – The regional office of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB 12) recently warned residents in Soccsksargen Region to be vigilant and to take precautionary measures for possible occurrences of landslides and flooding in the remaining months of the year. . MGB 12 has recently sent advisories and warnings to government agencies, local government units, and local media in response to a recent announcement from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration regarding possibility of stronger typhoons to make landfall from September until December. Effen Carido, chief of Mine Environment and Safety Division of MGB 12 said, al-
though typhoons very rarely strike Soccsksargen Region, weather disturbances with wider coverage could still bring heavy rains and cause disasters. “This natural condition should not cause undue alarm but calls for our collective and coordinated efforts to prepare for possible natural disaster,” Carido said. “Highly vulnerable to hazards of landslides are residents living near identified or in landslide zones and those living in at near steep moun-
tains, drainage hollows, earth cracks, garbage dumps, and any sloping grounds with potential to move or slide when saturated by rainwater.” People residing in low-lying areas and riverbanks, rivers, creeks and channels, swamps, flashflood exit points, river deltas, and coastal areas are at high flooding risk, he said. Carido said, local government units in the four provinces and five cities in the region have been provided with a 23
22
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Monday, September 5, 2011
MGB 12... from page 22 list of landslide and flood-prone areas in the entire region. They expect the LGUs to lead in the preparation and warning of their respective residents for possible disastrous occurrences. “Residents in the upland and flood-prone areas are advised to transfer to safer and more stable grounds for their own protection,” he said. Public is also advised to immediately notify local officials, concerned government
agencies, and to coordinate with local disaster risk reduction and management councils of any possible landslide , ground subsistence, earth cracks or fissures, and flooding hazards observed in their localities. MGB is also reminding local government officials to ensure that residents are prohibited from entering or staying in area previously declared “no habitation zones” in high risk areas. Carido said, after the advisories , they will be conducting massive
information drives at LGU and village levels to ensure that safety measures are put in place. He said they are still urging constitution and activation of Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils. They are also recommending close coordination of the barangay-based councils with the Municipal or City and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils for proper guidance and concerted efforts. (PIA 12)
Tacurong is region’s most by Allan S. Freno child-friendly city TACURONG CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) – Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat province is Soccsksargen Regions’ most childfriendly city under the component cities category, according to the Regional Council for the Welfare of Children (RCWC). In a letter sent to Mayor Lina Montilla last week, Department of Social Welfare and Develop-
ment (DSWD) Regional Director Bai Zorahayda Taja informed the mayor that Tacurong has satisfacto-
rily passed the regional evaluation conducted last month. Taja added that be 24
Monday, September 5, 2011
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23
Tacurong is region’s... from page 23 ing adjudged the region’s most child-friendly city, Tacurong will receive a child-friendly seal plus P50,00 cash prize. Tacurong also becomes the regional entry for the National Search for the Most Child-Friendly City to be launched this month. The city was evaluated based on its childfriendly policies and programs particularly in the areas of survival, protection, education, and development. Representatives from the Department of Health, Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Education, and DSWD composed the regional evaluation team. During the validation on July 27, the evaluators checked various pertinent documents such as the annual budget of the city to determine how much funds go to programs that promote the welfare of children. Evaluators also paid a visit to the police station and inspected the latter’s Women and Children’s Desk along with its
24
records. Three of the 20 barangays here were also subjected to ocular inspection to check on the functionality of each of their Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC). The City Council for the Welfare of Children (CCWC), being allowed to submit one barangay for inspection, chose Barangay Buenaflor, which has the most functional BCPC in Tacurong. The other two barangays, Tina and Calean, were randomly selected by the evaluators at random. Since the education aspect of the children were given equal consideration, evaluators also inspected one of its public schools, the Tacurong National High School, to determine how far did the City Schools Division go in providing quality education for all. After a whole day validation, the evaluators and members of the CCWC headed by Mayor Lina Montilla, sat down for an exit conference. The
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evaluation team declared that except for some minor comments, the city had done well in almost all areas, highlighted by the education sector getting relatively the highest rating. Nearly a month after the validation, Tacurong got the official word that it passed the evaluation and declared as the regional winner. Mayor Montilla, who also sits as the chairperson of CCWC, hopes that the city will be able to get the national award despite strong competition anticipated to be presented by other regions. CCWC Action Officer Nancy Bawe said that the council is making improvements based on the feedbacks offered by the regional evaluation team. “Before the national evaluation team visits our city for the validation, we hope to already make enhancements to boost our chances in the national search,” Bawe said. (DED/PIA 12/ TACURONG CPIO)
Monday, September 5, 2011
Tagalog News: Pagbisita ng LBK Bus sa S. Cotabato muling pinagpaliban KORONADAL CITY, Setyembre 5 (PIA) - Sa ikalawang pagkakataon, muli na namang pinagpaliban ang pagbisita ng Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan (LBK) Bus ng Department of Health (DOH) sa South Cotabato.
Sa
halip na
Setyembre sa
22 at
sa ng 23, ang
Oktubre na umano
T’boli kabilang na man ang mga kabataan Brgy. Aflek.
sa mga laro at iba pang
Layon ng LBK Bus kasiyahan na inihahanda
makakarating ang LBK na makapagbigay serbi- para sa kanila. Bus
sa lalawigan
hil umano sa abala ang
da- syo sa
mahigit 2,000
Kabilang sa
parehong residente o 500 pami- hahalagang
ma-
mensahe
South Cota- lya sa naturang bayan. ng LBK fiesta caravan
bato Integrated Provin-
Ang LBK ay isang ang sumusunod: dapat
cial Health Office at ang fiesta caravan ng DOH dumaan sa
di bababa
DOH sa mga araw na na naglalayong itaguyod sa apat na
pre-natal
ito.
ang mensaheng
pang- checkup ang isang bun-
Nauna nang itinak- kalusugan partikular na tis; dapat may pagitan
da ang
pagdating ng ang
pangangalaga sa na hindi bababa sa tat-
LBK Bus noong Hulyo mga ina at kanilang mga long 6 at 7.
anak
Siniguro ng
gapan
ng
DOH na ing bus
pagdating
kon- ganganak; dapat isang
upang maabot isang health facility ang
mga residente at magpapaanak sa isang
ng komunidad.
medical bus sa Baran-
buntis.
Habang tinuturuan
Isinusulong
gay Aflek, T’boli kung ang mga ina at ibang nito saan
target
nitong residente sa mga ang- bong
makapagbigay ng
ang
din
eksklusi-
pagpapasuso
ser- kop na pamamaraan sa ng sanggol sa unang
bisyong pangkalusugan pangangalaga sa
bawat pan-
tang- septo ng isang travel- skilled health worker sa
matutuloy na sa Oktu- ang bre ang
gamit ang
taon
ng
ka- anim na buwan. (DE-
sampung barangay lusugan, magsasaya na- Doguiles/PIA 12)
Monday, September 5, 2011
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Tagalog News:RTWPB 12 muling magpupulong hinggil sa posibilidad ng pagrepaso ng sahod KORONADAL CITY, Setyembre 5 (PIA) -- Nakatakdang muling magpupulong ngayong buwan ang Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board ng Soccsksargen Region (RTWPB 12) upang talakayan kung may mabibigat nang mga kadahilanan upang repasuhin ang kasalukuyang pinapatupad na wage order. Sa isang panayam, sinabi ni Department of Labor and Employment Region 12 (DOLE-12) Regional Director Ma. Gloria Tango, kabilang sa kanilang pag-uusapan ay kung ang mga pagtaas ng halaga ng mga pangunahing bilihin at presyo ng langis nitong mga nakaraang linggo ay sapat na upang magdeklara ng pagrepaso sa Wage Order 16 para sa mga manggagawa sa priba-
dong sector. Aniya, nakakalap na ng kinakailangan impormasyon at mga datos ang RTWPB Secretariat upang magamit na basehan ng pagtataya kung kailangan na ang review ng sinusunod na pasahod sa mga manggagawa sa rehiyon. Katuwang ng DOLE sa pagsusuri sa mga paggalaw ng mga presyo at pagtataya sa inflation rates sa rehiyon ang National Eco-
nomic and Development Authority at Department of Trade and Industry. Nauna sanang naitakda ang pagpupulong ng RTWPB sa ika-15 at 16 ng Setyembre, subalit maaari umano itong iuurong sa ibang araw dahil nakatakdang dumating sa rehiyon si DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz sa Setyembre 15. (DEDoguiles/ PIA 12)
Tagalog News: BFAR may scholarship
para sa mga anak ng mangingisda
KORONADAL CITY, Setyembre 5 (PIA) - Muling nanawagan ang pamunuan ng Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) sa mga anak ng mga mangingisda sa Soccsksargen Region na samantalahin ang scholarship na inaalok ng tanggapan. 27
26
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Monday, September 5, 2011
BFAR may scholarship... from page 26
Sa inauguration ng bagong tanggapan ng BFAR 12 sa Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City noong nakaraang linggo, mismong si BFAR National Director Atty. Asis Perez ang humikayat sa mga anak ng mga mangingisda sa rehiyon na subukan ang scholarship ng BFAR. Aniya bukas ang scholarship para sa mga nagtapos ng high school o magtatapos ngayong taon at interesadong kumuha ng kursong Bachelor of Science in Fisheries o Marine Biology simula sa school year 20122013. Dapat anak sila ng mga small-scale o small-time na mangingisda o yaong kumikita ng hindi lalampas ng P25,000 bawat taon. Monday, September 5, 2011
Ang edad ng magaaral ay hindi dapat lalampas sa 20 taong gulang, hindi pa nakapag-aral sa kolehiyo, at may weighted average sa fourth year high school na hindi bababa sa 80 porsiyento. K a i l a n g a n ding miyembro ng asosasyon ng mga mangingisda ang kanilang mga magulang ng hindi bababa ng apat na taon. Patutunayan ito sa pamamagitan ng sertipikasyon mula sa pinuno ng organisasyon. Ayon kay Atty. Perez, kabilang sa matatanggap ng mga scholar ng BFAR ang libreng tuition, buwanang allowance at book allowance. Balak ng BFAR na sa susunod na taon, magkakaroon sila ang hanggang
20 iskolar sa bawat rehiyon. Mas maraming scholarship slots ang kanilang balak ibigay sa Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Balak ng BFAR na bigyan ng trabaho sa kanilang tanggapan ang mga scholar kapag natapos na nila ang pag-aaral. Ang mga interesado ay maaring kumuha ng application form sa tanggapan ng BFAR 12 sa National Highway, General Santos City. Maaaring makipag-ugnayan hinggil sa scholarship program kay Geraldine Balisacan sa teleponong (083) 552 – 9331 at (083) 552-9332. Nakatakda ang scholarship examination sa Setyembre 17, alas-9 ng umaga sa General Santos City.(DEDoguiles/PIA 12)
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Giant female croc captured, mate still astray by David M. Suyao AGUSAN DEL SUR, Sept. 5 (PIA) -- A giant female crocodile was captured by a team of crocodile hunters led by Bunawan Mayor Edwin Elorde at around 11:00 P.M. Saturday in Barangay New Era, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur. Three weeks ago, the crocodile attacked a three-year old carabao in the same barangay. According to crocodile hunters from Palawan Wildlife Sanctuary, the captured female crocodile in Bunawan is the largest they ever saw and captured in the country. It measured three and a half feet wide and 20 feet long. Mayor Elorde said the crocodile has already responded to their prey twice, but was not captured because their paraphernalia were broken because of the animal’s strength. Proofs are the remains of the baits and the paraphernalia still present in the mouth
of the crocodile when it was captured. Residents of Barangay Nueva Era in the the large Agusan Marsh believe there are undetermined number of crocodiles in the area. And because what was captured was a female crocodile, they believed a much bigger crocodile may attack soon. Residents in Barangay Nueva Era were shocked witnessing with their bare eyes, a crocodile, who, according to them the back-width is measuring not less than three feet, with an es-
timated length of 12 feet, dragging a young carabao victim in the river, snapping its wide mouth with strong and sharp fangs every now and then at the neck of its prey. With everyone on their shock mode, no dare stop the monster, whose prey, the young carabao that it dragged, was blocked by the foot bridge that crosses the river. Almost exhausted, the crocodile submerge, leaving the carabao floating at the edge of the bridge. Still no one dare go near for fear that all of the sudden, 29
28
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Monday, September 5, 2011
Giant female... from page 28 the monster will again appear, and kill anyone near. From then on, residents were prohibited to go fishing, washing their clothes or to stay close to the river. A month ago, a resident of Nueva Era named Daniel Auxtero, 56 years old disappeared while fishing on
the river. The following morning, only his boat, saddle and hat were seen by the searching neighbors and barangay officials. Two years ago, a ten-year old girl, saddling her boat from the floating school, was attacked by a giant crocodile in Lake Mihaba, just
a few kilometers away from Barangay Nueva Era. Local residents believed that the captured crocodile belongs to same group of crocodiles that attacked the girl and Daniel Auxtero. (With reports from William U. Andres, NBN-Agusan del Sur/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)
“JYES Kontra Droga” launched in Surigao del Sur by Ernie Y. Gultiano SURIGAO DEL SUR, September 5 -- The Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) of Surigao del Sur recently launched the “JYES Kontra Droga” campaign to fight the proliferation of illegal drugs. With the theme, “Get Involved, Act Now!” the activity was graced by Usec. Jose Gutierrez, Jr., the Director General of PDEA, and Ms. Alma Concepcion, beauty queen and actress as guest speakers of the occasion. It was also participated in by Mayors, Vice Mayors, Punong Barangays, SK Federated Presidents, Students, National and Local Government Agen-
cies, and Non-Government Organizations in the province. “This activity signals our fight against illegal drugs in the Province of Surigao del Sur,” said Vicente H. Pimentel III, the Vice Chair of PADAC. The government, he added, is serious in its campaign to address the core of the problem and eventually make Surigao del Sur a drug-free province.
The PADAC is chaired by Governor Johnny T. Pimentel. The “JYES Kontra Droga” aims to implement its 10 (JYES) point agenda against drug abuse. They are as follows: (1) To establish a Covenant with all sectors; (2) To strengthen Anti-Drug Abuse Councils; (3) To intensify Information Education Campaign on “KontraDroga”; (4) To adapt 30
Monday, September 5, 2011
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“JYES Kontra Droga“.... from page 29 a Moral Recovery Program; (5) To institutionalize Sports Development Program for the youth; (6) to establish a Rehabilitation Program for drug dependents; (7) to provide Skills Development andLivelihood Programs; (8) to provide regular Support to the Law Enforcement Units on anti-illegal drugs operations and PADAC activities; (9) to advocate a Healthy Lifestyle; and (10) to lead a Drug-Free Surigao del Sur. In her testimony, Ms. Concepcion addressed the youth and their parents. “It is easy to say NO TO DRUGS… but have we looked really into the root cause of the problem? It is the lack of attention, the lack of love that pushes one to resort to drugs,” remarked Concepcion. She boldly shared her experiences and conveyed the evil that drugs have brought into her life. Concepcion was arrested in 1998 in Guam for alleged drug possession. But “what happened has opened my eyes and taught me a lot of lessons
30
in life,” she declared. Meanwhile, Governor Pimentel urged everyone to act against the cases of drug abuse in the province. “At first I don’t believe that illegal drugs have penetrated the Province of Surigao del Sur. But with the consecutive apprehensions made in the different parts of the province, I realize the menace that it may cause to the constituency.” It shall be noted that Surigao del Sur has several reported drug apprehensions for the past couple of months. Certain amount of shabu was confiscated in Barobo and in Barangay Union, Madrid; while the same was also seized in Tago, recently. Governor Pimentel also emphasized the need for a concerted effort and called for the participation of everyone, public and private sectors alike. “I as your governor, we as your local officials, the PDEA, the PNP cannot do this by ourselves alone. Thus, we need your support!” He encouraged all the Mayors
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and Punong Barangays to activate their Anti-Drug Abuse Councils in their respective areas, and enjoined the community to be vigilant. “We are doing this not for ourselves, but for the next generation to come… for our children,” he exclaimed. On the other hand, Usec. Gutierrez lauded the PADAC of Surigao del Sur for its serious and well-coordinated action against illegal drugs. In his message he said, “Today, PDEA has just won an ally in its pursuit to eliminate drug abuse in the country.” As one of the program’s highlights, a Covenant was signed by all local officials, participating agencies, and others present during the event. It was followed shortly by a symbolic boodle fight, signifying the solidarity of everyone in the crusade against drug abuse. The activity concluded with a series of competition participated in by all SK chairmen in the province. (DILGSdS/PIA-Caraga)
Monday, September 5, 2011
ILO-DOLE-DTI climate change adaptation project now testing financing schemes in Agusan Norte towns
by Brenda B. Corvera
BUTUAN CITY, September 5 -- Three models of innovative financing schemes are currently being tested in four towns of Agusan del Norte as possible support to climate change adaptation efforts of vulnerable farming communities. The financing schemes are for crop production and alternative livelihood. The rural bank model is being run by the Peoples’ Bank of Caraga (PBC) in the municipalities of R. T. Romualdez, Jabonga, Buenavista and Las Nieves. The cooperative model is run by recently awarded Baug CARP Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BCBMPC) as 3rd National Placer in the Land Bank of the Philippines’ 2011 Gawad Pitak Awards and further cited as “Best Cooperative in Environmental Protection and Management”, as well as “Outstanding Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARB) Cooperative.” The
cooperative model is being test-run in three of the priority towns except RTR. The third model – local government unit –run facility is being expanded in RTR (for alternative livelihood), it being the original designer and successful implementor of the said financing facility, and tested in Buenavista and Jabonga – mostly for crop production. The three models differ only in their interest rates with the LGU facility being priced the lowest (@ only 5% for the whole cropping or less than 1% per month,
coop model at 1% per month and the rural bank model at 2.3% per month. All three models, however are implementing the proposed innovative schemes to make the financial assistance responsive to climate change vulnerabilities. These features include – completion of a financial literacy program which not only informs farmers on their loan obligations but also on how to manage their household budget and savings; farmers’ field school to provide updated support on crop production activities and appropriate 32
Monday, September 5, 2011
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31
ILO-DOLE-DTI.... from page 31 business technologies for for the towns of RTR and alternative livelihood ac- Buenavista. tivities;
fast
processing
The
The
innovative
fi-
nancing scheme test runs other
two are under the demonstra-
of loan applications to re- towns are not included tion project in Agusan del spond to changing plant- because the multi-year Norte dubbed “Climate ing patterns and timeta- past weather data pro- Resilient Farming Comble; cash-cycle responsive vided by the PAG-ASA munities Through Risk amortization schedule station in Bancasi, Bu- Transfer Mechanisms.” that allows for payments tuan City - needed to The demo project is only when farmers already establish the indices implemented by the Interhave the money (after har- are
only
valid
within national Labour Organizavest, after sales). The fi- a certain radius which tion (ILO) in collaboration
nancing also includes crop unfortunately does not with the Department of insurance and immediate cover Jabonga and Las Trade and Industry (DTI), refinancing to allow farm- Nieves. But with the Department of Labor & ers to recoup losses due recent establishment of Employment (DOLE), and to climate –induced dam- automatic weather sta- the Provincial Government ages; personal credit life tions in all four towns, of Agusan del Norte. insurance and mortuary future WIBI product It is one of five protection for the farmer packaging will now be pilot sites in the counborrower and the mem- possible. try for aimed at debers of his or her house- The test implemenveloping mechanisms hold – so as not to burden tation which involves to adapt to climate the farming household in some 600 farming housechange under the Milcase of death in the fami- holds started late April lennium Development ly; and marketing support and will wind up by late Goal Achievement Fund – to wean them away from October this year. The (MDG-F). The project unreasonably low-priced test run will then be the is principally funded by purchases from traders. basis for some policy recthe Spanish Govern A weather–index- ommendations and posment. (DTI-Caraga/ based insurance (WIBI) sible replication in other PIA-Caraga) is also being pilot tested areas.
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Monday, September 5, 2011
DILG XIII supports CSC Month, Nat’l Filipino Family, Crime Prevention Week celebrations BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) -- Various government line agencies held a joint celebration of three national events--the 111th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary, the National Filipino Family Week and the National Crime Prevention Week celebrations. Among the agencies were the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region XIII joined the Civil Service Commission (CSC), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). The program kicked-off with a walkathon participated by government agencies, socio-civic organizations and academic institutions showing signs of unity, support and participation in
Monday, September 5, 2011
the advocacies of each sponsoring organization. The DILG supports NAPOLCOM and the Philippine National Police from pre to post activities by providing technical assistance in the conduct of information drive for students on crime prevention topics. In his message, DILG Regional Director Atty. Rene K. Burdeos thanked the participants for the support extended to the sponsoring agencies. “This is the first time in Caraga that
the sponsoring agencies have converged together and agreed to have a joint kick-off,” Burdeos said. “I do hope that these agencies will continue their advocacies in this triple celebration especially in crime prevention,” he added. A Hataw Dance Exercise sponsored by the Rotary Club of Midtown Butuan added color to the event as participants dance to the tunes of hitbacks from the 80s and to the grind of present times. (DILG-XIII/PIACaraga)
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Caraga to join Mindanao ONE by Annette F. Anduyan & Brenda B. Corvera
BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) -- A four-day trade & investment exhibit cum conference with special side events focused on Mindanao will be mounted on October 14 to 17, 2011 at the World Trade Center in Manila. Private and public sectors from the six regions of Mindanao are expected to participated in activity dubbed Mindanao ONE. Mindanao ONE is chaired by the Mindanao Trade Expo Foundation, Inc. (MTEF) and is working closely with Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM), the Mindanao Business Council, Phillipine Exporters Confederation (PhilExport), Mindanao Development Authority, and the departments of agriculture, tourism, trade and industry, science and technology and the interior and local government. MTEF head Ann Pamintuan in her visit to Caraga explained that the activity aims to showcase the island’s vast potentials for agricultureaquaculture, trade, investment and tourism which also represent business & investment opportunities that can be undertaken by both the government and the private sector under the Private-
34
Public Sector Partnership Program (PPP). It will feature business matching, regional presentations and showcasing of BIMP-EAGA opportunities. Included as well are the planned daily regional presentations on the best cultural & tourism facets of the island, including craft demonstration, fashion shows, other promotional events as well as seminars on agriculture-aquaculture, trade, investments, and tourism. The activity accordingly also hopes to help position Mindanao in a different perspective i.e. “as an island that is modern but deep in its cultural richness, a paradise for those who seek the pleasure of ecological balance and a destination for those who are looking for business potentials in agriculture-aquaculture, trade, investment and tourism amidst the splendor of a natural environment.” Its tagline, A Showcase of the Island’s Abundance,
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reportedly captures the activity’s intent to present Mindanao’s abundant resources, both natural and human. Caraga’s participation is spearheaded by Phil-Export-Caraga in collaboration with the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI), Department of Tourism (DOT), all the Chambers of Commerce in the region, Caraga Regional Association of Traders & Entrepreneurs in Food, Inc. (CReATE Food, Inc.) and the United Furniture Makers Association, Inc. (UFMA). These groups also compose the planned Caraga Steering Committee for the event. A special Mindanao ONE road show will be conducted by the Caraga Group to create provincial chapters and drum up support for the project. The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Butuan has reportedly already pledged a P100, 000.00 financial contribution for the region’s efforts. (DTI-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
Monday, September 5, 2011
“Kurambos” livelihood project launched in La Libertad town by Franklin P. Gumapon DIPOLOG CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) -- In keeping with President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III’s poverty alleviation program, the national government agencies (NGAs) have converged recently in La Libertad town to join and extend support to the launching of the “Kurambos” livelihood program.
Mayor Anjanette Sulit has tapped the NGAs to help uplift the living condition of her constituents by introducing livelihood opportunities in the municipality. Mayor Sulit disclosed that her town “is 97.8 percent IRA (Internal Revenue Allotment) dependent,” as it is basically an agricultural municipality and majority of its residents are living below the poverty threshold. With the assistance of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the municipal government has come up with the Monday, September 5, 2011
“Kurambos” concept seeking to tap the support of all NGAs as well as the local government units (LGUs) to institute partnership between and among them to spur economic development in the municipality. The municipality is now pushing for the development of a white water rafting project, patterned after that of Cagayan de Oro City, as an alternative tourist attraction not only in the municipality but the province as well. La Libertad has a big river with a fast current down Dapitan City River. The municipal
leadership believes that the water rafting project will usher in livelihood opportunities for its people following the influx of tourists coming to the municipality. The project launch was attended by DOLE Undersecretary Lourdes MelicorTrasmonte, DOLE-IX Regional Director Ponciano Ligutom, Vice Governor Francis Olvis, Zamboanga del Norte first district representative Seth Frederick Jalosjos , provincial heads/representatives of the different line agencies and municipal officials. (FPG/ PIA-Zambo. Norte)
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DOLE bats for community tourism promotion by Franklin P. Gumapon DIPOLOG CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) -- Seeing Dapitan City as the tourism hub in the region, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – IX headed by Regional Director Ponciano M. Ligutom has spearheaded a “3Y” project in said city.
In a consultation-dialogue with partner-agencies held recently in Dapitan, Director Ligutom made a brief presentation about the project before the 3Y member-agencies and other stakeholders. No less than DOLE Undersecretary Lourdes Melicor-Trasmonte attended the said dialogue where she underscored the importance of the collaboration between and among government and non-government agencies for the project to succeed. 3Y which stands
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for One Locality, One Industry, One Service Quality, was the brainchild of Director Ligutom seeking to promote local community tourism in Dapitan with emphasis on improving the quality of service by hotel and restaurant attendants, bus and tricycle drivers and other service groups for the tourists and guests. This project has been implemented in partnership with the local government unit (LGU), Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI),
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Dipolog-DapitanPolanco-KatipunanRoxas-Manukan Growth CorridorProject Management Office( DDPKaRoMaPMO), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and other stakeholders. Dapitan has been famous for its Rizal Shrine, the legacy of the national hero Dr. Jose Rizal who was exiled here by the Spaniards from 1892-1896. The city is also home to the worldrenowned Dakak Park and Beach Resort. (FPG/ PIA-Zamboanga del Norte) Monday, September 5, 2011
“White Spot” virus downs fishpond industry in Zambo City by Michael Vincent D. Cajulao ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) – A deadly virus known as “white spot” killed prawns, shrimps, crabs, and fishes in Barangay Vitali, east of the city, costing the fishpond owners hundreds of thousands worth of investment. Barangay Kagawad Leo Natividad revealed that their barangay has been dealing with the problem for about three months now during an interview with Discovery Zamboanga Executive Director and Western Mindanao State University Mass Communication Professor Jose Maria Bue, while looking for other tourism potentials in the city’s east coast. Natividad said they have already reported the problem to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), but some of the fishpond owners are complaining on the seemingly slow response from BFAR. Mr. Edward Falcasantos lamented on BFAR’s decision to postpone their inspection from September 6 to 21. He said it may be
too late if they keep on delaying the inspection. Falcasantos has invested P150,000 on prawns and he said he harvested less than 20 kilos. However, BFAR IX Regional Director Ahadulla Sajili said they are doing everything they can to address the problem immediately but the lack of manpower and the many priorities that they have to attend to is limiting their interventions. “We have already conducted tests and inspection in the area last July. In fact, we have already scheduled a training-seminar on the 21st, and we will be distributing equipments the following day to our fishpond operators. Unfortunately, we cannot just go there anytime because we lack manpower and we also have
other equally-important priorities to address”, Dir. Sajili said. Sajili also explained that the “white spot” virus is inherent to prawn fingerlings and once tested positive, there is nothing they can do to stop it. “ U n f o r t u n a t e l y, once the fingerlings are tested positive, there is no more cure to it”, he said. “What the fishpond owners should do is to have their purchased fingerlings from hatcheries tested. That’s the best precautionary measure that they can do, unless they get their fingerlings in the wild, which is safer and is not yet infected with the virus”, he added. Sajili also advised fishpond owners to dry their ponds for about two weeks if there is an 38
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“White Spot”... from page 37 infestation. “They have to sun-dry their ponds for at least two weeks, if there is infestation. They also have to put
lime to disinfect their fishponds and wash it again with water before using it again, Sajili said. Vitali has long
been the city’s “fishpond capital”, producing prawns, shrimps, crabs and milk fishes for export. (JPA/MVC/ PIA9-Zambo City)
ARMM introduces Islam-friendly family planning program ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Sept. 5 (PIA) – The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) now has its own kind of family planning program befitting not only the tradition and culture of the region’s 4.2 million people but also corresponds to the tenets of Islam, the religion of an estimated 1.75 billion individuals across the globe. ARMM Information Chief Ali Macabalang said the ARMM’s Department of Health (DoH-ARMM) launched the “May Plano Ako” program recently in Cotabato City for massive implementation in the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Basilan, Sulu, and TawiTawi, and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan, all component areas of the autonomous region. DoH-ARMM Secretary Dr. Kadil Sinolinding Jr., alongside his staff of fellow Muslim physicians and technical people,
expressed enthusiasm over the acceptability of the program among the majority if not all couples in the region due to the backing of Islamic clerics advocating it. The “May Plano Ako” program, according to Sinolinding, is advocating education and practices for birth spacing among couples to ensure the healthy and sound growth of their children in all dimensions of development, emphasizing the preservation of mothers’ health welfare from the risk of frequent birth
deliveries. Unlike birth control methods, which all religions oppose staunchly, the ARMM’s family planning scheme has been designed after a series of consultations with Islamic clerics to ensure that it goes beyond the traditional advocacy on limiting the number of children, Sinolinding said. Islamic clerics Ustaz Jaafar Ali and Ustaz Hadee Harry Hajdala, belonging to the global Tableegh preaching movement, corroborated the com39
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Monday, September 5, 2011
ARMM introduces.... from page 38 patibility of the ARMM’s family planning scheme to Islam, citing at the launching rites passages in the Holy Qur’an on the necessity of preserving the health wel-
fare of mothers and the total plight of children. In the ARMM component provinces and cities where illiteracy, poverty, and maternal and child
mortality rates are profusely high, the “May Plano Ako” program comes as a best formula, Sinolinding said. (JPA/AGM/ RVC-PIA9 BaSulTa)
City government tries to keep ends meet for 2012 with reduced IRA by Michael Vincent D. Cajulao
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) – City Mayor Celso Lobregat said the City’s Finance Committee is now having a hard time prioritizing and allocating budget for programs and projects for next year due to the reduction of P170 million in the city Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) next year. Mayor Lobregat said they already received an advise from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). The reduction, according to Lobregat, is due mainly to the conversion of 16 municipalities into cities throughout the country. Accordingly, of the P170 million IRA deductions, P136 M goes to the creation of the new cities. “Since I sat down as mayor, the budget Monday, September 5, 2011
has always been increasing, so we are looking at what we can do to sustain the budget”, the Mayor said. He also stressed that he has been meeting with the finance committee even on weekends and holidays just to have a well-planned budget as early as possible. Mayor Lobregat expressed concerns on the implementation of the salary increase of the city govern-
ment employees next year as part of the National Standardization Law, starting January. He also said that the decrease in IRA will greatly affect the city’s Maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE), especially with fuel prices keep jacking up. “A l o s s o f a l most P200 M in IRA compared to 2011 i s a b i g l o s s ”, t h e chief executive said.(JPA/MVC/ PIA9-Zambo)
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