One Mindanao - March 13, 2015

EDITORIAL ADVISERS

SEC. SONNY B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information Agency

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

EFREN F. ELBANBUENACluster Head, Southern, Western and Central MindanaoRegional Director, PIA Region XI

MANAGING EDITOR ABNER M. CAGACluster Head, Northern & Northeastern MindanaoRegional Director - PIA Caraga Region

REGIONAL DESK EDITORS FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IX

ALMA L. TINGCANG, PIA Region IX ELAINE O. RATUNIL, PIA Region X RUDOLPH IAN G. ALAMA, PIA Region XI DANNY E. DOGUILES, PIA Region XII FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region

COPY EDITORS

FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga Region

SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST

GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region

Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)

P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038Cellphone no. 0908-8843404E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]: www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA WesMin Info BlizTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIAIX

SOCCSKSARGEN Region

Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St.Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506Telephone no. (083) 520-0249Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

Northern Mindanao

Graces’ Building, Antonio Luna StreetCagayan de Oro City 9000Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594Telefax no. (08822) 72-66-83Cellphone no. 0928-5204305, 0917-3084969E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]: www.pia-10.blogspot.com

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)

J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phWebsite: www.piacaraga.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur, Pia Dinagat Islands Power FM - CaragaTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)

Ground Floor Kanto Motors Bldg.,Quimpo Blvd., New MatinaDavao City 8000Telephone no. (082) 297-0991 / 301-8580Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 / 304-2044Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950E-mail: [email protected]

LAYOUT ARTISTS

GIDEON C. CORGUE, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region X

ZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region X

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

NOEMI B. EDAGARegional Director, PIA Region IX

THELMA B. OLIVERRegional Director, PIA Region X

OLIVIA T. SUDARIARegional Director, PIA Region XII

EDITORIAL BOARD

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESOne Mindanao

CONTENTS

Former NPA rebels to get CLIP assistance

FDA asks DTI to disapprove misleading term used in water refilling stations

Tungawan town receives food production facility from DOST

1736

4042

30

Gingoog city determined to reuse, reduce, recycle wastes By: Elaine O. Ratunil

Aquino administration to retain members of government peace panel, says Palace

Muslim kids take part in DSWD feeding program

Bislig City organizes BAGG

Mindanao power supply seen to ease up as Steag units start operating at full capacityWater district opens facility in sitio Paglaum

By: Susil D. Ragas

By: Laine Elechicon

15

By: Catherine T. Apelacio

By: Aida C. Agad

29

2425 LGU Makilala releases almost P1M

calamity aid to quake victims

By: Alma L. Tingcang

By: COWD

By: Jerome R. Soldevilla

Cover Story

CARAGA

WESTERN

NORTHERN

INFOCUS

SOCCSKSARGEN

SOUTHERN

NATIONAL

20 RDC XI brings Updated Regional Development Plan Roadshow in ComVal By: James Labrigas

11

1719

3923

27

34

4 MARCH 13, 2015One Mindanao

Gingoog city government reiterated the government’s determination to address climate change primarily through reducing, reusing and recycling of wastes.

By: Elaine O. Ratunil

Gingoog city determinedto reuse, reduce, recycle wastes

5MARCH 13, 2015 One Mindanao

Gingoog city government reiterated the government’s determination to address climate change primarily through reducing, reusing and recycling of wastes.

The city government holds the key in preserving and developing its rich natural resources and ensuring the maintenance of environmentally sound areas, public facilities and practices in the city. During the Climate Change Advocacy campaign media tour spearheaded by Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 10 and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) 10, city Mayor Marie Guingona said the city government continues and will continue to implement its cornerstone of clean, safe and healthy environment. These efforts should be supported by stakeholders; change in attitude is crucial to ensure the success of the program, said the mayor. She further said the population is increasing in numbers and so they have to effectively manage their wastes and recycle them for the future of our children. The city government has been vigorously pursuing environmental related programs and activities through the

Gingoog city determinedto reuse, reduce, recycle wastes


operationalization of Agro-Forestry and Solid Waste Management Unit under the City Mayor’s Office to oversee the implementation of Republic Act 9003 or the Solid Waste Management Law and Agro-Forestry Projects of the city. Gingoog city, with a population of 180,000, is approximately 122 kilometers (74 mi) east of Cagayan de Oro and 74 kilometers (46 mi),

On the implementation of Solid Waste Management, the city government conducted intensive information education communication campaign and trainings on waste reduction and proper segregation of waste at source in all 79 barangays. The mayor also said they must take necessary precautions for any eventuality; the need

to constantly bring to the consciousness of the people of the adverse effects of climate change. This consciousness has to start with the kids.

The City Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) was fully operationalized which salvaged approximately five tons of recyclable and reusable wastes. The city’s controlled dumpsite has intensified its optimum use and preparations for the implementation of the Sanitary Landfill are already in its plan.


Hence, schools in the city such as in Manuel Lugod Elementary School practices garbage segregation. The schools have been teaching garbage and waste education starting from kinder. Solid Waste Management (SWM) Program

According to Guingona, there is a need to drastically reduce the amount of waste that we generate, especially in the city and its environs. The need to segregate at the source of waste, because most of what we throw away are still reusable, recyclable or can be turned into compost. Non-segregation of waste is punishable under RA 9003. The law prohibits the collection of non-segregated waste and transporting them to

dumpsites. This includes mixing source-separated waste in any container used for solid waste collection or disposal. Violation of this provision can lead to jail time of one day to three years, or fines from P300 to P500,000. With such penalties, the collectors will be encouraged to implement the law and dispose of their collected garbage properly. Meanwhile, engr. Dovee Cherry Geollegue, regional SWM coordinator of the Environment Management Bureau (EMB), region 10, said that while the city has no landfill yet, the rehabilitation of its dumpsite, one of the best in the country, is noteworthy.

No scavengers in sight, the center also boasts of a 300-square meter compost pit


where soil compost is distributed to the farmers in the city for free as organic fertilizer. Gingoog barangays for best practices in SWM

According to City Environment and Natural Resources Division (CENRD) chief Richard Miraflores, because of the generous allocation poured in by the Guingona administration for the solid waste management program, the city has enabled to maintain its record as the greenest and cleanest city in the region. Besides, the city has been cited by national headquarter of DENR as the highly recommended place for excursion where well-managed and odor-free controlled dumpsite has been focused. He said the city took the barangay to task in collecting the

garbage since people are direct residents of their barangay. The mechanism agreed upon by city officials and residents allows the barangay leadership to set up waste collection areas, collect garbage, and charge residents for garbage disposal. Some barangays put up their own material recovery structure where people take their garbage already segregated, so no fees are collected from them. Miraflores further said the city has one-size-fits-all policies and barangays are empowered to build the mechanism, based on our mission to segregate garbage at home.

Plastic garbage such as instant coffee plastic wrappers are recovered and turned into


useful decorative items, and bags as well.

Barangay 4, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, with its slogan, “Decency is the Best Policy,” the Barangay Council agreed that all garbage collection bins shall be similar in size and make, with cover and shall be provided and taken care of by each household. This barangay was among of the eight local government units (LGU’s) in northern Mindanao that were cited by DENR for their unique implementation of SWM Program. Through DENR’s Environment and Natural Resources Management Program (ENRMP), these LGU’s were recognized for their best practices in SWM, engr. Geollegue said, along with their respective slogans.

Barangay Santiago, on the other hand, is a recipient of several regional awards for recycling, zero open defecation, and environmental management. Recycling the waste materials provides livelihood opportunities for the barangays especially the women. Discarded paper materials are transformed into necklaces and table decor, among others. PIA-DENR Media Tour

PIA 10, in partnership


with DENR is implementing an advocacy campaign on Climate Change with the theme “Nagbago na ang Panahon, Panahon para Magbago.” (Time has changed. It’s time to change)

According to Thelma B. Oliver, regional director, PIA-10, one of the campaign strategies is

the conduct of a media tour in an area with notable solid waste management practices. It aims to showcase and oriental them on current efforts at the local level in compliance with the Solid Waste Management Act. Further, this is to inspire LGUs and the community on solid waste management. Visit to the and barangay MRFs highlighted the tour. At the exit conference, the media cited the experience of the city in empowering the community to take ownership of government programs affecting them.


Manila - The number of jobless Filipinos fell further in January 2015, showing signs that the country’s labor market is continuously improving and fueling hopes that the better employment figures will sustain recent findings of increased incomes of low-income families, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

January 2015 employment figures show stronger PH jobs market

The January 2015 Labor Force Survey (LFS) revealed that the figures for employment, unemployment, and underemployment all improved

during the period.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported Thursday that employment grew


by 2.8 percent to 37.5 million from 36.4 million in the same period last year. This means an additional 1.04 million Filipinos employed from January 2014 to January 2015, almost four times the 281,000 jobs generated in the previous year. “The labor market got a boost from a stronger growth in all sectors mainly driven by services which grew by 3.9 percent, contributing a 766,000 net employment gain in January 2015,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan. Moreover, the unemployment rate in January 2015 declined to 6.6 percent from 7.5 percent in January 2014.

“With employment growing faster at 2.8 percent compared to the labor force growth of 1.8 percent and partly due to the stronger growth of services employment, the number of unemployed went down by 334,000 to 2.6 million during the period,” the Cabinet official said. Notably, all regions posted a decline in unemployment rate during the period. Moreover, unemployment rate among the

youth (15-24 years old) dropped to 15.0 percent from 17.3 percent in January 2014. Likewise, underemployment, which refers to those who are working but wanted more work, went down to 17.5 percent from 19.5 percent a year ago. This translates to a reduction in the number of underemployed workers to 6.5 million in January 2015 from about 7.1 million a year ago.

“For this period, the number of underemployed persons contracted among wage and salary workers, as well as self-employed workers, which possibly means greater availability of more remunerative jobs and more profitable ventures,” said Balisacan, who is also NEDA Director-General.

“From employment gains to reductions in unemployment


and underemployment, the labor market is becoming robust, and we hope that this will continue and further benefit the poor, especially as the economy grows faster at a higher trajectory,” Balisacan added.

Thus, he stressed the importance of ensuring that the gains in employment and income are not eroded by high food prices.

“The recent report on poverty highlighted the impacts of high food prices mostly to low-income families. Our significant strides in poverty reduction through better quality jobs and higher incomes must move forward along with cheaper food prices. Elevated rice prices are of particular concern, as rice takes up about 20 percent of the budget of the poor,” said Balisacan.

“Relatedly, the government must continue its efforts to create a more supportive business environment, allowing the private sector to create more and better jobs,” he added.

For her part, Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz in a

statement said that the results of the January 2015 Labor Force Survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority “encourage us greatly at the Department of Labor and Employment to continue to strengthen our various employment facilitation programs and services with strong partnership with companies and industries and to work harder to further sustain the prevailing industrial atmosphere which we believe had helped the economy achieve remarkable employment gains, not only this January 2015, but in the previous—and hopefully— in the next rounds of the official survey.”

Labor and employment data for the January 2015 LFS round still excluded Region 8, in order to be comparable with the labor and employment data released by the PSA in the January 2014 LFS round. The region suffered from


devastation by typhoon Yolanda causing labor displacement and thus no survey was conducted in the area last year. An alternative estimate which excludes Leyte

only, rather than the whole Region 8, in the January 2015 LFS round shows little effect on the estimate of the national unemployment rate.


Aquino administration to retain members of government peace panel, says Palace

MANILA - President Benigno S. Aquino III will not change the composition of the government’s peace negotiating team despite a lawmaker’s call to replace the administration’s peace adviser and chief negotiator for peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), a Palace official has said.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, in a privilege speech on Wednesday, called on the President to change the members of the peace panel because of their apparent bias towards the MILF.

In a press briefing in Malacañang on Thursday, Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. however said that the President has no plan to replace the members of the peace panel.

“Naninindigan ang Pangulo hinggil sa kakayahan at integridad ng mga bumubuo ng ating peace panel—mula kay (Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process) Secretary Teresita Deles at kay Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, bilang chairperson ng (peace) panel, at ang mga kasapi nito,” he told reporters. Asked to comment on Cayetano’s allegations that the MILF coddled Marwan, one of the targets of the bloody


Mamasapano clash last January 25, Coloma said the senator should submit his information to the Senate committee investigating the encounter.

“Ang mga impormasyon na mayroon siya tungkol doon sa umano’y pagkanlong ng MILF, doon sa allegation that the MILF coddled Marwan, should be referred to the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs that heard the different resource persons regarding the Mamasapano incident,” he said.

“At habang hindi pa naman naglalabas ng ulat Ang mga ito, maaari naman niyang ibigay iyon bilang input mismo sa pagsisiyasat ng Senado.”

Coloma noted that although Cayetano’s speech was mostly about his doubts on the sincerity of the MILF in the peace process, the Aquino administration remains committed to the peace talks.

He pointed out that the negotiation between the government and the MILF has been going through the right process in the past five years and was only interrupted by the Mamasapano incident.

With many investigating bodies looking into the deadly incident, the government is confident that the truth will come out, Coloma said. “Kaya’t patuloy na naninindigan si Pangulong Aquino na kailangang ipagpatuloy ang pagdaloy ng prosesong pangkapayapaan dahil mahalaga ito sa pambansang interes ng Pilipinas,” he said.

Several bodies have launched their respective investigations of the incident -- the Senate, the Philippine National Police’ Board of Inquiry, the Department of Justice, the International Monitoring Team (IMT), and the Commission on Human Rights.

The MILF is also doing its own probe, although an official said they will submit their report only to Malaysia, the facilitator for the peace talks.

A total of 44 members of the police’s Special Action Force perished in the Mamasapano clash. The MILF reported losing 18 combatants to the encounter. Several civilians were also reported to have died in the incident. (PCOO/PND (as)


Muslim kids take part in DSWD feeding program

DAVAO CITY - Some 1,500 Muslim-children enrolled in various Madrasahs in the city will benefit from the Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP) for Sajahatra Bangsamoro implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

In coordination with the local government unit (LGU),

the SFP will initially feed 550 children aged 5 to 12 years


old in 11 Madrasahs, which are Muslim private schools with core emphasis on Islamic Studies and Arabic Literacy.

As soon as the DSWD receives the master list from the field workers, the second feeding round will cover 950 children to complete the 1,500 target.

For the initial feeding of 550 children, the Department has allotted P910,250 for food and dining and cooking utensils, including 6,600 kilograms of iron-fortified rice.

The SFP is a program which provides food to children daily in addition to their regular meals. It is an augmentation support to the feeding program of the LGU and it uses indigenous food and/or locally processed food equivalent to 1/3 of the Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intakes (RENIs).

The program aims to enhance knowledge, attitude, and practices of children, parents, and caregivers through intensified nutrition and health education. It also improves and sustains the nutritional status of the children beneficiaries.

According to DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman, the SFP also contributes to peace efforts. “The program also concretizes the socio-economic peace initiative in partnership with the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).”

Communities endorsed by the MILF to DSWD through Task Force Bangsamoro Development (TFBD) are involved in this feeding program for Sajahatra Bangsamoro.

Parents manage the feeding program preparation of meal cycle using the available indigenous food supplies. Children beneficiaries are weighed at the start of the feeding and after the completion of 120 feeding days to determine improvement in their nutritional status.

As part of the SFP implementation, the participating parents are also mobilized to attend nine capability-building sessions on self, family, parenting, health and nutrition, love of country, and home and environment.(DSWD)

Accessibility, promotion need to push Davao City for foreign tourists

DAVAO CITY- An official of the City Tourism Of-fice revealed that for-eign tourist arrival does not even reach 10 per-cent of the total num-ber of tourists that visit the city. Lysette Marquez, acting city tourism officer lamented that only Sin-gapore is the only inter-national destination that flies directly to Davao City. She said the situa-

tion calls for the national agencies like the Depart-ment of Transportation and Communication and the Department of Tour-ism to help promote Davao City internation-ally. “The primary reason is to encourage linkages,” Marquez said. She observed that while the Department of Tourism promotes gener-ally the tourist destina-tions in the country, ac-tual promotion of Davao


RDC XI brings Updated Regional Development Plan Roadshow in ComVal

COMPOSTELA VALLEY - Gearing towards expanded economy in pursuit of inclusive growth, the Regional Development Council (RDC) Regional Office XI held in the province, a Roadshow on the Updated Davao Regional Devel-opment Plan (RDP) for CY 2014-2016 at the Provincial Capitol So-cial Hall, Cabidianan, Nabunturan, ComVal on March 10. Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo P. del Rosario who sits as the Chair-man of the RDC XI said the Davao Regional Development Plan is a liv-

ing document that affirms RDC XI’s commitment to coordinate all efforts in pursuit of Davao region’s develop-ment agenda. “The RDC XI crafted our de-velopment plan that is people-fo-cused as it aims to achieve inclusive growth and growth that is shared by all Davaoeños and leaves no one be-hind,” said del Rosario. “Kini ang paglambo nga gi-naambit sa tanang Davaoeño ug walay bisan usa man ang mabiyaan,” stressed del Rosario emphasizing that the RDP is a plan formulated by the stakeholders themselves and a

City remains wanting, primarily due to the travel advisories issued by for-eign countries about the peace and order in Mindanao. Marquez said that while there are countries that isolate Davao City as a peaceful destination in their advisories on Mindanao, generally, the city is still underscored being the hub of the aircrafts and in Mindanao. She said that given the more improvements to be done in the tourism promotion of Davao, there is no let-up in their efforts to make the city as a destination for foreign tour-ists. Marquez also pointed out that accessibility and peace and order are two important factors that can spur

the tourism industry. She said healthy competition is encourage among airlines in order for consumers to have better options to come here. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)


product of various consultations, re-views, and refinements thus making it a true embodiment of the multi-sector, multi-stakeholder and multi-level aspirations of Davaoeños. Regional Director Maria Lourdes D. Lim, Vice-chairperson of RDC XI, said the RDP is an embodiment of President Aquino’s social contract with the Filipinos and serves as the blueprint for government’s develop-ment efforts until 2016. With the onset of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Community, Director Lim said Davao region now envisions itself as the Nation’s Global Frontier through spatial and economic inte-gration into the world market. The RDP’s thrust focuses on attaining development outcomes which include macroeconomic man-agement, modern and competitive agriculture, competitive industry and business, strategic and sustainable infrastructure, science, technology and innovation, good governance, human resource development, peace and development, sustainable envi-ronment and natural resources, and social protection for inclusive growth. Specifically, the updated RDP targets to achieve an average an-nual growth of 7.5% on the regional economy by 2016; decrease from 28.6% in 2012 to 22.3% in 2016 on poverty incidence; an increase on employment rate to 98.2%; in-vestment inflows from P8.4 billion in 2012 to P18 billion in 2016; and

simple literacy rate increase from 93.2% to 100% in 2016. Seeing the importance of RDC in Local Government Units (LGUs), Cong. Maricar Zamora urged local of-ficials to participate in development council meetings and coordinate with other local chief executives to com-plement their plans. Congresswoman Zamora added that while Davao region prepares for the ASEAN Integration, Compostela Valley will do its part and will com-plement with neighboring LGUs in achieving growth and development in the region. Present during the event were the provincial and municipal officials, municipal and provincial planning officers, and representatives from the provincial and regional offices of the different national-line agencies.(James Labrigas / IDS ComVal)

Thousands benefit from NorthCot-IPHO’s 2014 medical-dental outreachBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme

KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato, Mar. 13—A total of 70,553 individuals from at least 127 villages in the province received free medical checkup and dental services from the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) in 2014.

Dr. Eva C. Rabaya, provincial health offi-cer said the number of individuals served is based on the monitoring report of IPHO in at least thrice a week medical-dental outreach and barangay visitations they conducted for the past year.

Of the total number of beneficiaries, 56,394 were given free medical checkup, 10,544 availed of free tooth extraction and around 3,615 young boys were circumcised.

Dr. Rabaya further stated that the IPHO ‘Serbisyong Totoo’ team of doctors, dentists and nurses who conducted the medical-dental outreach programs also distributed free medicines, vitamins and even food for snacks to the beneficiaries.

The medical-dental outreach programs were aimed at providing the necessary medi-cal and dental attentions to individuals, es-pecially in depressed or conflict-affected vil-lages as well as to inmates of the provincial jail.

“Many people in different villages can


hardly go to the doctor or hos-pital for consultation because of their difficult situations such as poverty. This is why Governor Emmylou Mendoza directed the IPHO to go to the villages and provide the people with medical services,” Rabaya noted.

Aside from the government hospitals in the province, Raba-ya emphasized that they have partnered with the troops of the Philippine Army as well as with the Barangay Health Workers, Day Care Workers and other volunteers in conducting the outreach programs.

For her part, Governor Men-

doza emphasized that her con-stituents especially those resid-ing in far-flung villages must avail of the basic services of the provincial government.

“It is our obligation to our constituents to give them the basic services they ought to have such as health services through the consolidated efforts of our provincial health officials, doctors and volunteers,” the governor noted. (SJDuerme-PIA12/N. Cotabato Media Bu-reau)


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, March 13--- Rebel returnees who sur-rendered recently to authorities will be enrolled into government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).

Former NPA rebels to get CLIP assistanceBy: Catherine T. Apelacio

As of this writing, 11 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels have already surrendered following the encounter between the Ar-my’s 73rd Infantry Battalion and the NPA’s Front 75 last February 16 in So Tugal, Barangay Datal Anggas, Alabel, Sarangani.

“Simula noong engkwen-tro ay 11 na silang lahat ang sumuko at inaasahan naming na marami pang sumunod upang makapag-avail ng Comprehen-sive Local Integration Program (Since the encounter, there were already 11 rebels who sur-rendered and we are expecting more to follow suit),” Capt. Rey Balibagoso, 1002nd Brigade’s civil military officer said.

The encounter has resulted in the “killing of seven rebels and the recovery of various subver-sive documents.”

NPA leader Tolentino Bariq-uit alias Kumander Brigol was among those killed.

But Ka Renan, a rebel return-ee who voluntarily surrendered

in Alabel town last February 22 to 73rd IB headed by Lt. Col. Ronnie Babac revealed that the NPA had actually lost 13 com-rades but they were able to ask some folk to help bury them.

“Sinabi nyang 13 ang nama-tay sa kanilang kasamahan, pero 7 lamang ang narecover ng gobyerno, at ang 6 ay ipinalib-ing na lamang nila sa masa (He said they have actually lost 13 comrades but they were able to have common people bury them),” Balibagoso said, add-ing there were no casualties on government side.

He also said that in the last weeks they have received “sur-render feelers” from rebels who want to return to the fold of law.

Ka Renan and the others will receive the necessary assistance as provided under the govern-ment’s reintegration program, the officer said.

In the meantime the return-ees have been provided with short-term “food assistance.”


Under CLIP, returnees are en-titled to avail socio-economic assistance such as a livelihood project to help them start a new life with their families.

CLIP is implemented pursuant to Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2014-01 issued by the Department of Interior and Local Government and the Of-fice of the Presidential Assistant on the Peace Process (DILG-OPAPP).

It aims to encourage mem-bers of the Communist Party of

the Philippines, NPA, and the National Democratic Front to lay down their arms and rejoin mainstream society.

The returnees who are all Tagakaulo tribe, an indigenous people (IP) mostly found in Malungon, Sarangai, were pre-sented to Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon, the committee chair of CLIP in the province.

They will be awarded the CLIP assistance on March 19. (CT Apelacio/PIA-12 General Santos City)

MAKILALA, Cotabato, March 13 – A total of 196 households re-ceived P978,000 cash assistance from the local government unit (LGU) of Makilala .

LGU Makilala releases almost P1M calamity aid to quake victims By: Aida C. Agad

LGU Makilala earlier allocated P1 million for financial assis-tance of the victims. The allo-cation has to be divided among the victims whose houses were declared as totally damaged. They are to receive P8,000 while those whose houses were par-tially-damaged are each entitled

P3,000 cash assistance.The beneficiaries were affect-

ed by the 5.2 magnitude trem-or that hit Makilala last Septem-ber 20, 2014.

The 5.2 magnitude quake that severely hit Barangay Luayon was followed by 38 more after-shocks as recorded by the Phil


ippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PhiVolcs).

According to PhiVolcs Makilala town lies near the epicenter of the earthquake with epicenter traced six kilometers southeast of the town.

A report from the LGU said that two days after the dev-astating quake, the Sangguni-ang Bayan of Makilala adopted unanimously on September 22, 2014 Resolution No. 275 -2014 declaring the entire Municipal-ity of Makilala under the state of Calamity due to earthquake devastation.

This authorized the local chief executive to utilize the unex-pended balance of the calamity fund for calendar year 2014 and to institute measures to cushion the effects of the calamity.

Barangay Luayon has the highest number of victims with 103 households. Seventy-one (71) families received P8,000 while 32 families received P3,000.

Other barangays affected by the calamity included Villaflores with 29 Households (2 families received P8,000 and 27 fami-lies received P3,000); New Ba-guio-23 households received P3,000 each; Santo Niño – 11 households received P3,000;

Malabuan – 7 households re-ceived P3,000; Sta. Felomina – 3 households received P3,000; Guangan – 2 households re-ceived P8,000; Luna Sur – 2 households received P3,000; Luna Norte – 1 household re-ceived P3,000; and Poblacion with 1 household receiving P3,000.

Mayor Rudy Caoagdan has ordered the immediate release of the funds for the construc-tion of the quake victims dam-aged houses. (AC Agad PIA 12/with report from OCDeseo LGU Makilala)


AgNor agrarian orgs complete mandatory training coursesBy: Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY - At least 6,419 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in Agusan del Norte composed of 72 Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) completed the required 14 mandatory trainings before December, 2014 ends. These ARBOs are mostly cooperatives, farmers associations, irrigators associations, women’s group.


The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Agusan del Norte, in partnership with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and Propegemus Foundation, Inc., accomplished 149 percent in performance from its targetted 4,300 ARBs trained last year. DAR also facilitated four associations turned into cooperatives composed of Pangaylan Solar Homes Association now transformed into Pangaylan ARB Cooperative (POLETAJACS ARC); Bonifacio Farmers Ass. now Bonifacio ARB Cooperative (KATIMALIBON ARC); Mat-i, Ambacon, Pinanaan and Lingayao Ass. to Pinana-an, Mat-i, Ambacon ARB Cooperative (MAP ARC), and Maong Integrated Farmers Association now Maong Agrarian Farmers Cooperative (Non-ARC in Cabadbaran City).

DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO II) Andre B. Atega, CESO V, said that the ARB’s successes are not merely on distribution of lands but also to strengthen the institutional and entrepreneurial capacities of the ARBOs. Engr. Raul Hermoso, officer-in-charge of Program Beneficiaries Development Division (PBDD) said that the capability building trainings must be further strengthened to empower ARBs organizations in sustaining and effectively managing their agri-enterprises. Juanita Balibay, SILCAB section head said that this year’s mandatory training has eventually reached to 12 trainings conducted comprised 1,238 ARBs trained from 62 ARBOs in this province. “We have to ensure that the ARBOs must develop their entrepreneurial skills to respond the needed support services in the pace of CARP implementation,” Balibay added. DAR and CDA partnership program is aimed to strengthen institutional capacity of the ARBOs to fully link the delivery of support services, such as access to credit and raising agricultural productivity to the agrarian reform beneficiaries.


FDA asks DTI to disapprove misleading term used in water refilling stations

SURIGAO CITY - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently requested Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Philippine Business Registry Project Management Unit director-in-charge Ernani M. Dionisio to disapprove the use of some terms on the business names that mislead the buying public. In a letter dated February 6, 2015, the FDA requested DTI to disapprove the following terms to be used in registering business names of water purifying and refilling stations, manufacturers, importers and distributors of water purification systems or devices such as: Alkaline, Ionized, Pi Water, Mineral, Oxygenated, Energized, Oxidized, Di-ionized and Hydrogen. Related to this, the FDA last year had issued Advisory No. 2014-010 titled: Consumer Warning Against False, Deceptive

and Misleading Claims and Promotional Ploys on “Alkaline Water” and “Oxygenated Water.” In the said advisory, FDA warns the consumers against vendors making declarations and promises to potential buyers that such types of water removes every known chronic disease condition, acts as strong antioxidant, slows aging process and promotes greater absorption of nutrients. Another FDA Advisory No. 2011-013 was also released with the subject: Warning on the Use

By: Susil D. Ragas


Bislig City organizes BAGG

BISLIG CITY - The city government here recently spearheaded the organization of the Barangay Administration and Good Governance (BAGG) program in cooperation with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). The barangay being the basic political unit has always been the forefront of local government undertakings. The program aims to intensify the rate of effectiveness and efficiency of service delivery by each of the 24 barangays of the city; strengthen barangay governance; and assist the barangay officials in the performance of their duties and functions, for whatever the synergy that the barangays create reflects the state of governance of the city. A program orientation is set from March 9 until May 15, 2015

to all the 24 barangays of the city. The topics that will be discussed during the program are divided into five modules in order to match the duration of the whole program and the resource speakers. These modules are Values Foundation for Good Governance; Laying Ground for Development, Barangay Development Planning; Reorientation on Barangay Governance and Admin; Improving People Empowerment; and Charting the Roadmap for Barangay Development.

By: Laine Elechicon

of Non-Certified Therapeutic Claims for the Promotion and Advertisement of Water Purification Devices producing water labeled as “alkaline, ionized, PI, oxygenated or energized water.”

For those interested to check if a health product is registered with FDA, they can log in to FDA website at www.fda.gov.ph then type the name of the product in the search bar.


IMELDA, Zamboanga Sibugay, Sept. 12 (PIA) – To capacitate the soldiers of the 44th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army (PA) in facilitating youth leadership summits in its area of responsibility, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Sibugay gave them on Tuesday (March 10) a lecture on effective communication to develop their communication skills and their ability in handling group discussions.

PIA-Sibugay conducts trainers’ training for 44th IB soldiersBy: Franklin P. Gumapon


“The ability to communicate effectively is important in relationships, education and work,” said Information Center Manager Alma L. Tingcang of PIA-Zamboanga Sibugay before the participants in the said training held here. She said people with improved communication skills usually enjoy better interpersonal relationships with friends and family. “Effective communication skill is fundamental to achieve success in various aspects of our life,” she remarked. Ms. Tingcang told the

10 participants attending the training that a good communicator or speaker must have the courage to say what they think, finding it worthwhile to contribute ideas in a conversation. “Take time each day to be aware of your opinions and feelings so you can adequately convey them to others.” According to Ms. Tingcang constant practice is required to develop one’s ability in speaking. “New skills take time to refine, but each time you use your communication skills, you open


yourself to opportunities and future partnerships,” she said. Making eye contact, gestures, and mirroring one’s language are among the keys to effective communication as explained by Tingcang.However, communication may be disrupted through noise, generation gap, cultural differences, hearing and language –also known as the barriers to communication, which can lead to misunderstanding and confusion. “Choose to be honest,

patient, optimistic, sincere, respectful, and accepting of others when in a conversation,” Tingcang stressed. Meanwhile, handling group discussion was also discussed. The participants were given exercises and tasks that they presented at the end of the training. PIA-9 also conducted the same training on September 12, 2014 to another batch of YLS facilitators of 44th IB in Imelda town.

Tungawan town receives food production facility from DOSTBy: Alma L. Tingcang

TUNGAWAN, Zamboanga Sibugay(PIA) - - To reduce the prevalence of under nutrition among 6 months to 35 months old children, the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) initiated science and technology interventions to address malnutrition dubbed “DOST-PINOY” or Package for the Improvement of Nutrition of Young Children. Recent survey results conducted by DOST FNRI revealed that Region IX including other areas in the country had higher prevalence of both underweight and stunted children aged 0-5.

This age group is very crucial for physical and mental development thus lack of nutrition during this stage may result to severe health condition.


DOST-FNRI recently inaugurated the facility to address the persistent health issues among young kids and helping to meet our Millennium Development Goals. DOST Zamboanga Sibugay science research specialist Francis Melanie T. Temonio said the Roll-Out of Complementary Food Production project in Region IX is implemented in Barangay Libertad, Tungawan, this province and in the Cordillera Administrative Region, Region IV-B, IX, XII and CARAGA. It was inaugurated on March 6 attended by program

partners such as the National Nutrition Council, National Economic & Development Authority, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Education local government officials and other stakeholders. Regional Director Brenda L. Nazareth-Manzano said the project started when Mayor Randy A. Climaco signified his strong commitment to adopt the commercialization of the technology-based enterprise. The LGU provided building/space for the processing area to produce the DOST-FNRI developed complementary food products. The needed manpower for the operation of the project was also complemented by the good mayor. Meanwhile, DOST funded the acquisition of production/processing equipment as octagon mixer, hot extrusion line, moisture meter, auto repacking machine, digital weighing scales, kitchen utensils, stainless steel working table and packaging materials.


Proper training on the production of complementary foods, and basic sanitation and hygiene were also provided to the production workers. DOST assisted in the production of promo collateral materials in video and print formats. Specifically, the complementary food products are rice mongo curls which is made from a blend of rice flour and mongo flour. It contains 130 Kcal and 4g protein per 30g enough to meet 12.1% of recommended energy and 14.3% of recommended protein intake of 1-3 years old children; and instant rice-mongo baby food blend which is rich in protein and energy. It contains 102 Kcal and 4 grams protein per 30grams, enough to meet 17% of recommended energy and 29 percent recommended protein intake for 6 months to less than 12-months old children. This is a dream project of Tungawan folks. Mayor Climaco thanked all program partners and stakeholders for

the realization of this project which is seen to create more local jobs and marketing opportunities, thus uplifting the socio-economic status not only of Tungawan but also its neighboring municipalities.

Women’s group grows fruit pie business

MAMBAJAO, Camiguin - Trying out ways to earn better while looking after their family and kids, a women’s group from a small community here, started their own fruit pie brand.

By: Jorie C. Valcorza


The group was organized under the Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina (KALIPI) women’s group in sitio Quiboro, trained and equipped by the local government through various grant assistance from the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in region 10. Cash assistance and equipment like kitchen aide mixers, oven, vacuum weight scales, and stainless working tables were turned over and housed at the community women’s center, while members take turns in the preparation. To date, two groups from the

association are currently running the fruit pie business, branding Sitio Quiboro as the best pie maker in the province. “We are making at least 50 to 70 pies a week, it comes in various fruit flavors like buko, pineapple, mango, ube, or mixed, and we sell it to nearby communities and offices here at P75 and P170 per layer,” Quiboro-Poblacion Kalipi Organization president Nora Taburada said. While the peak season is up, Taburada is also working to tap with the hotel and cottages operators in the island, seeking to grow and expand their production as well as positioning the product as another pasalubong treat for visiting tourist.

Mindanao power supply seen to ease up as Steag units start operating at full capacityVILLANUEVA, Misamis Oriental - STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI) announces the successful completion of the preventive maintenance for its electric power generating unit No. 1, days ahead of its self-imposed March 16, 2015 deadline.

By: Jerome R. Soldevilla


Unit 1, which went off line for a planned preventive maintenance beginning February 21, 2015, was synchronized to the Mindanao grid on March 12, 2015 at around 12:25 pm. Earlier, Unit 2, which also went offline for preventive maintenance beginning February 19, 2015, was restored back to the grid on March 2, 2015 as scheduled. SPI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Bodo Goerlich said that the preventive maintenance activities for Unit 1 were successfully completed even ahead of schedule. He expressed optimism that with the two units now operating at full capacity, Mindanao’s power supply condition will improve. “With our full capacity now made available, we expect the power supply condition in Mindanao to improve,” Dr. Goerlich said. Dr. Goerlich explained that the timely conduct of the preventive maintenance and restoration of the units just in time for the onset of the summer months could provide a major relief to the volatile power supply condition of the island. “We are confident that with our units now back on line, Mindanao is more prepared to

meet its electric supply needs especially during the summer months where demand usually is at its peak,” Dr. Goerlich added. Earlier, SPI power plant manager Dr. Carsten Evers explained that the preventive maintenance works need to be carried out periodically to sustain optimum efficiency and reliability of the electric generating units. The preventive maintenance schedule was also carefully planned, scheduled and coordinated with key players in the power industry including the grid operator National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to minimize any adverse impact to the Mindanao grid. SPI’s power plant at the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate in Misamis Oriental is composed of two identical power generating units, each with a net generating output of 105MW. Since start of its operations in November 2006, SPI has delivered more than 11.5 billion kWh of electricity representing about a fifth of Mindanao’s total power supply. SPI is principally owned by the German company Steag GmbH with Aboitiz Power and La Filipina Uygongco Corporation as local partners. Steag GmbH is a leader in advance coal-power


generation technology and one of the pioneers in operating and maintaining a highly efficient and

reliable coal-fired power plant in the country.

Cagayan de Oro City Water District (COWD) said the project consists of a pump, a 51 cubic meter capacity elevated tank, transmission line and 14 stub-outs, capable of serving around

280 households. COWD hold on March 8 an orientation-seminar at the sitio’s basketball court as part of the application procedure for new service applicants attended by around 200 residents. Barangay captain Pete Arda of Camaman-an along with other barangay officials also witnessed the activity. He commended COWD for

the development, noting that now they don’t have to buy water anymore (by container), both for drinking and domestic use. (COWD)

Water district opens facility in sitio PaglaumCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Residents of sitio Paglaum now have access safe and potable drinking water right from their faucets, following the completion of the P3.8M Water Supply System Project.

One Mindanao - March 13, 2015

Documents

Transcript of One Mindanao - March 13, 2015