One Mindanao - November 29, 2012

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESEDITORIAL BOARDExecutive Editor …….. EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI

Managing Editor …….. ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao

Associate Editors …… NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX

OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Officer-in-charge, PIA Caraga Region

ELAINE O. RATUNIL Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X

Regional Desk Editors Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Copy Editor ............... Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Layout Artists ……… Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Zener R. Dumaguing, PIA Region X

Senior Layout Artists : Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region

Editorial Adviser :

SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

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

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

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]

Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN) Provincial Capitol Compound 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]

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phBlogspot: www.piacaraga.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

Cover Story

Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital: a decent hospital for the poor

Ferdinand ZuasolaSouthern Mindanao

Today’s issue... Thursday, November 29, 2012 Vol. 2 No. 74

page 4

President Aquino says K to 12 program aims to advance competencies of Filipino graduates 9

FB,CMO8IB, PA/RLRB, Northern MindanaoNPA rebels rob, kill innocent villagers20DOST-X laboratory now offers latest Mercury analyzer 21 Admer Rey C. Dablio , Northern Mindanao

9,696 additional poor families in Zanorte, now new beneficiaries of 4Ps

Training Workshop on Career Guidance and Employment

Alfonso T. Ruda , Western Mindanao

Mindanao Communicators’ meet in Davao City 23 Rudolph Alama, Southern Mindanao

Caraga RDC passes resolution to include the DOJ and PCA as members of the PICODavid M. Suyao, Caraga Region26

Alma L. Tingcang, Western Mindanao

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Surigao del Sur free from red tide toxin --BFAR Danilo S. Makiling, Caraga Region27ARMM dad vows to continue reforms, puts premium on economic agenda Apipa P. Bagumbaran, ARMM29

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Thursday, November 29, 2012 4 ONE MINDANAO

A typical government hospital bursts with patients even at its entrance, but not the Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital located in Mati City. Wide lounge awaits every patient and their caretaker to experience comfort while getting done their transactions: an experience extended to the least fortunate through government service. That is how Provincial Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon wants her legacy project should provide for her constituents whom she knows deserve a state-of-the-art and decent medical services at an affordable price.

In pursuing such kind of a hospital to rise for the benefit of the least fortunate, Gov. Malanyaon is

driven by her mantra which says that “the poor deserve as much health care as the rich.” She extends her hand beyond giving free health insurance cards and goes her way out seeking means to put up a hospital at par with the so-called “hospital of the rich.” Viewed as a “hospital with a heart”, Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital is designed to “provide a compassionate care to the indigent patients.” “The right to life is an inviolable human right. A healthy nation is a progressive nation. A government that cannot provide its people with adequate health care system has no reason for its existence. I have always been guided by this philosophy,” says Governor Malanyaon in her speech


Looking at the building, one would probably not think

of it as a hospital except when he sees the signage saying that it is the Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital. The hospital building rises three floors in dainty pink amid wide grounds landscaped with trees and flowers, giving wellness atmosphere.

by Ferdinand Zuasola

Thursday, November 29, 2012 5ONE MINDANAO


during the 2010 opening of the new provincial hospital. The newly upgraded provincial hospital brings the right mix of “health, wellness, leisure and relaxation,” and boasts of “newly acquired medically advanced equipment and state-of-the-art facilities, complemented with highly skilled and experienced doctors and medical professionals.” Davao Oriental Provincial Information Office said the provincial hospital was designed in accordance

with the DOH and international standards by Architects Eduard Villanueva, Leopoldo Sandoval and Kim Dy and associates. Architect Ed Viacrucis complemented the hospital building with a landscaping that considered “the healing effect of nature.” Viacrucis also designed the bamboo-inspired chapel, the guardhouse and other garden structures. Chiqui Roque Villaroel did the interior designs of the hospital while

Engineer John Algallar of the provincial engineering office devised a waste water treatment facility appreciated by the DOH, DENR and the ECOGOV for its being environment-friendly and cost-efficient. The upgraded provincial hospital is also considered as environment-friendly, giving patients the atmosphere of wellness and providing the hospital workforce a conducive

environment to work productively. Gov. Malanyaon acknowledges a number of individuals and benevolent groups who have helped her realize her dreams of putting in place a health care and medical facility at par with what most are seeking in a private hospital. The governor also thanks

Thursday, November 29, 2012 6 ONE MINDANAO

the DOH-Center for Health and Development, the two congressional representatives Dayanghirang and Almario, Vice Governor Joel Mayo Almario, members of the provincial board and Mati Mayor Michelle Rabat for their financial support to the hospital. She also thanks the AGAPE International, the World Relief Mission and Kiwanis International-Michigan for their donations of hospital beds and medical equipment. Bearing the same sentiments and observation with people living outside Davao Oriental, patients have noticed tremendous changes in service delivery and accommodations of the Provincial Hospital from food, billing system, facilities and ambience. Benjamin Comodas, 59 year-old resident of Poblacion Mati, Davao Oriental no longer notices the congested aisle, overcrowded wards. “Sauna magbangga-bangga ang mga watchers. Before (patient) watchers used to bounce each other.” Not only that, food is much better while hospital bills are much lower than the charges of private hospitals. Patients enjoy not only the comforts that the Provincial Government Hospital is providing, but they can also ask for subsidy based on what they can take out, from their pocket.

“Pwede hangyuon ang bayronon sa parehong serbisyo sa pribadong ospital. (One can ask for much lower fees at the same services with that of a private hospital) ,” said Norma Bello 60-year-old resident of Barangay Magsaysay, Mati City. The Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital may have something to be improved. It could be its management, services, operation and even the building but the way it is now, is much better than what it was five years ago. It bears the testimony of how the provincial government leadership cares about the health and wellness of its people.

Thursday, November 29, 2012 7

ACROSS THE NATIONMalacanang says Philippine economy grew by 7.1 percent in third quarter this year

The Philippine economy grew by 7.1% in the third quarter this year beating government targets and besting other Southeast Asian economies, a Palace official said on Wednesday.

“Among our neighbors the country’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth was higher than Indonesia’s 6.2%,

Malaysia’s 5.2%, Vietnam’s 4.7%, Thailand’s 3.0%, and Singapore’s 0.3%,” Presidential Spokesperson

8 Thursday, November 29, 2012

Edwin Lacierda said in a statement during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday.

“This impressive expansion from 3.2% in the same quarter last year, places the country’s nine-month growth rate at 6.5% and on track to surpass the 5-6% full year growth target set by the National Economic Development Authority,” he said.

The Philippine economy has shown both resilience and resurgence despite the global economic slowdown, Lacierda said.

Lacierda said the 7.1-percent GDP growth in the third quarter was made possible due to sustained confidence in the leadership of President Aquino who has consistently equated good governance with good economics.

“Underscored by deft fiscal management, responsible and transparent public spending, and a continuously strengthening partnership between government and business has resulted in a virtuous cycle for the

Philippine economy,” Lacierda noted.“Government has also pushed to

ensure this economic growth is felt by the broadest number of people. Within the same nine-month period, the Aquino administration has enrolled more than three million beneficiaries under the Conditional Cash Transfer program and has distributed P20 billion for this priority social investment,” he said.

On top of this, Lacierda said, the spending for public health has also increased resulting in an expansion of health care safety nets and improvements in hospitals and health centers all over the country.

“Equitable and inclusive growth is a commitment of the Aquino administration that has prioritized the establishment of both social and physical infrastructure, which continues to redound to a more robust economy for the benefit of all Filipinos,” Lacierda said. PND (js)

Thursday, November 29, 2012 9

President Aquino says K to 12 program aims to advance competencies of Filipino graduates

The K to 12 program aims to advance the competencies of Filipino graduates to enable them to stand at par with global practices and remain equipped with relevant skills and knowledge in their

chosen profession, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Thursday.

10 Thursday, November 29, 2012

“We are a government committed to upholding the welfare and interests of our countrymen, and central to our national agenda is the strengthening of our educational system,” the Chief Executive said in his message to the Pambansang Samahan para sa Edukasyon sa Pagpapahalaga (PSEP Inc.) on the occasion of its 22nd Annual National Convention and Seminar-Workshop on Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (EsP) on Thursday.

The PSEP, Inc. is conducting its 22nd Annual National Convention and Seminar-Workshop on Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao with the theme “Pagpapahusay ng Kaalaman at Kasanayan sa Pagtuturo ng EsP sa K to 12 Curriculum” at the Bohol Tropics Resort, Tagbilaran City in Bohol. The convention started on Thursday and will end on December 1, 2012.

“This (K to 12 program) gives our youth steady, confident footing in pursuing a career, and thus, empowers them to become able and productive participants in our shared task of nation-building,” the President said.

“The success of this endeavor demands support and dedication from our teachers. May this gathering bring light to the issues that you wish to address and may you all emerge with deeper solidarity as one collective, and with renewed passion in your work, as shapers of tomorrow’s leaders,” he said. PND (js)

Thursday, November 29, 2012 ONE MINDANAO 11

Peace envoy and fashion designer Arnold Galang commits to design bags for women weavers in Maguindanao

Renowned fashion designer Arnold Galang said he has committed to create designs of traditional

Maguindanaoan bags, made of materials from water lilies, for local women weavers during an immersion trip as a peace ambassador in the conflict-affected towns of Gen. Salipada K. Pendatun (SK Pendatun) and Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao province.

“It was unexpected because it is a big responsibility to give such commitment. But when you see the

women and the weaving centers they work in, it is impossible not to voluntarily share what you have,”

Thursday, November 29, 2012ONE MINDANAO 12

he said.“What I committed anyway is

just what I do every day, what I love doing – and that is designing,” added the RTW designer who is among the peace ambassadors recently enlisted by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

Galang was welcomed in Maguindanao by members of the Women’s Rural Improvement Club Cooperative in Barangay Poblacion in SK Pendatun. The women, who are widows of fallen Moro rebels, have been weaving bags from water lilies harvested from the nearby Liguasan Marsh to support their families.

Their livelihood project is being supported by the government’s

Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (Peaceful and Resilient Communities) program.

This municipality used to be a hotbed of Moro insurgency. In 2008, the outbreak of armed hostilities after the failed signing of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) displaced hundreds of thousands of families from their homes.

Galang told the weavers that he had previously ordered bags as giveaway at this year’s Philippine Fashion Week. “People were asking where they can get your bags. Unfortunately I didn’t know where to find you. But now that I’m here, I


will help you improve your bags and find a market.”

Sarika Pendatun, chair of the women’s group, demonstrated the production process from harvest to bag-making and discussed with Galang future projects that they can run together.

Galang also visited the Al Jamelah Organization that produces traditional inaul garments in Barangay Tamontaka, Datu Odin Sinsuat. “Inaul” is the Maguindanaoan way of weaving of intricately detailed table cloths, table runners, and malong.

The organization’s president, AlbayaWampa (aka Bai Albi), recalled how their area used to be a war zone at the height of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) insurgency.

“I organized the women here so that they will have livelihood. They are mostly unmarried women or wives of MNLF members,” she said. Bai Albi also welcomed recommendations from Galang on how to commercialize inaul and revive the industry.

Peace as personal mission

Galang said he will “definitely go back in Mindanao.”

“If I had just relied on hearsays about Mindanao, I wouldn’t have given myself the chance to discover the people and beauty here. There

is more to Mindanao than the bad things that we hear,” he added.

He also commended the women who lead the organization and livelihood projects. “They are the real heroes,” he said.

As a designer and peace ambassador, he hopes that whatever help he can give the weavers “will show what the Philippines can do.”

“I also want to relay to other people that we can make the country a better place by starting with making peace with ourselves and with other people,” Galang said.

Galang also met with young designers in Buluan whom he promised to sponsor in the next Philippine Fashion Week.

Arnold Galang is a renowned designer who has been in the fashion industry for more than 20 years. He worked as a designer for fashion lines, such as Bobby Novenario, Bench, Oxygen, Bum Equipment and Calypso, to name a few. He is currently the Vice President for Merchandising for Blutab Jeans and the Creative Consultant/Merchandising for Sakaya Ladies wear. Further, he is an outright supplier for SM ladies wear, girls teens wear and boys teens wear. He currently operates the A. Galang line at the SM ladies wear boutique department.


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ZPPCI president Vic Del Pilar said the seminar was aimed at

providing ZPPCI members the basics of libel and libel law and to remind

Pagadian journalists undergo seminar on media ethics, libel law and creative writing

PAGADIAN CITY – 52 local media from the print, broadcast and television, participated in the one (1) day seminar on “Mass Media ethics, libel law and creative writing” recently conducted by the Zamboanga del Sur – Pagadian Press Club, Inc. (ZPPCI) at Executive Hall, Springland Resort here.

By Gideon C. Corgue

Photo by: Allyzza Dawn Lu


the participants to exercise at all times-media ethics. Del Pilar said the seminar was a part of the reform he introduced when was elected as ZPPCI’s president on July 18, 2012, where he envisioned to nurture professional service ethic to all members of the organization with utmost integrity and decency. ZamboNorte press club president Rosemarie Miranda, who lectured on Journalism code of ethics said media practitioners should apply the principles of journalism ethics such as truthfulness, objectivity, accuracy, fairness and public accountability in gathering or doing their news up to its dissemination. Miranda said, by following the principles of Journalistic code

of ethics, “this would help guide journalists who are facing difficulties and ethical dilemmas in their profession.” Meanwhile, Atty. Arvin L. Bonbon, assistant legal officer of Dipolog city, said there is a need for the participants to know the main principles of libel so as not to injure the reputation of others. Bonbon also said that journalists’ freedom to operate is governed by legal framework that guarantees significant rights of individuals as well as the legal codes that are sometimes restrictive. In the afternoon session, a workshop in news writing was held to asses the learning outcome of participants.

9,696 additional poor families in Zanorte, now new beneficiaries of 4Ps By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - Nearly ten thousand families from Zamboanga del Norte province were added as beneficiaries to the anti-poverty program of the government- the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT)- a component of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).


Mr. Resty Ragas, 4Ps Provincial Grievance Officer said, 9,696 additional poor families in Zamboanga del Norte identified thru the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction survey were among the more than 40,000 families in the region to benefit the program. The new batch of 4Ps beneficiaries, belonging to set 6 of the 4Ps beneficiaries were enrolled in the program after the registration/validation was conducted from September to November 2012. Under the Program, each family-beneficiary will receive a maximum of P1,400.00 monthly allowance for the health and educational needs of the children, until they reach 14 years old, provided they comply with the requirements set under the program. Each studying child is expected to spend 85% of their time in school and should not incur three(3) absences from classes in a month while those aging below 5 years must be regularly brought to the health center for medical check-up and the needed immunization. Meanwhile, Ragas reminded the beneficiaries of their responsibilities under the program, like their attendance and participation in the monthly Family Development Session regularly called by their designated parent-leader. Ragas also warned parent-leaders to refrain from calling for a meeting among parents other than what is mandated under the program. He urged them to closely coordinate

with their Municipal or City Links before holding any meeting. He issued this warning after receiving report that some parent-leaders are holding a meeting not for Family Development Session but to discuss election-related issues, particularly on the candidate to be voted upon this coming 2013 election. Ragas also cautioned the 4Ps aspirants not to be fooled by the promises of some local politicians of their assured membership to the program once they will vote for a particular candidate this coming election. The Provincial Grievance Officer clarified that the transfer of voting precincts won’t affect the membership of the 4Ps beneficiaries as long as proper coordination is made to the Municipal or City Links regarding the transfer of residency. Ragas stressed that the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program is an anti-poverty alleviation program of the national government and its would-be beneficiaries are determined only through the NHTS survey conducted the DSWD and not by any politician.


“Today, we come together to find solutions to ease job-skills mismatch and to ensure that our labor force is globally competitive,” DOLE Assistant Regional Director Virginia L. Bonbon said during the opening program of the 3-day Career Guidance and Employment Coaching Training Workshop for Guidance Counselors and Coordinators held at Mardale Hotel and Convention Center on November 27-29. Ms. Mary Jane B. Omandam, ZamboSur GCNet President said school heads and principals were also invited to gain their commitment and support and to promote career

guidance as a relevant tool in youth development, contributing to the prosperity and welfare of the nation.. “Getting it all done is an enormous task for us alone in the department. We need partners and that is what we found in you,” DOLE Regional Director Sisinio B. Cano made it clear to the guidance counselors and school heads. RD Cano said that forging a partnership with the Department of Education would propel the youth to pursue a career that is marketable and globally competitive. Highlighting the 3-day activity

Training Workshop on Career Guidance and Employment Coaching held By Alma L. Tingcang

PAGADIAN CITY - To address issues on labor market imperfections especially on job-skills mismatch, the Department of Labor and Employment set into motion the organization of a network of guidance counselors (GCNet) to partner with them in giving career and employment services not only to high school and college students but to parents as well.


was the MOA signing between DOLE and DepEd which was inked by RD Sisinio B. Cano and Tornito M. Gomintad, OIC Schools Division Supt. – DepEd Province as well as Dr. Elsa R. Cruz, City Schools Asst. Division Superintendent. The MOA states that DOLE shall provide labor market information to institutions on a regular basis thru the GCNet members while DepEd shall properly assess the skills and inclinations of students to enable them to make more effective career decisions, among others. Other relevant topics discussed during the training workshop were: Project Jobs Fit DOLE 2020 Vision and Labor Market Information – Ma. Eloisa S. Idris, DOLE IX; State of the Labor Market in the Local Arena – Engr. Joseph Isaias Quipot IV, Pagadian City PESO Manager; Integration of Career Guidance in the K to 12 Program – Gilbert A. Celesio, St. Columban High School Principal; Priority Courses in the Higher Education – Dr. Emmylou B. Yanga, CHED Regional Director; Career

Path in Trade Skills – Dr. Don Patrick Dalid of TESDA IX; and Presentation of Good Practices of the ZamPen GCNet Inc. by its President, Ms. Ermah Sheila L. Roble. As RD Cano quoted the famous words of Henry Ford, “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success,” achieving their shared aspiration of assisting the youth in choosing education, training and occupational choices – getting people with the right skills in the right job would not be far off, thus providing meaningful employment services.


During the RTD, selected key indicators of the regional economy were reviewed, validated, and assessed by representatives from both government and private sectors. These indicators included agricultural and fisheries production, forest production, investments, exports, labor and employment, tax and customs collections, inflation, and peace and order. Also reviewed were infrastructure-related indicators such

as telecommunications, shipping, irrigation development, status

of electrification, and energy sales, among others. Major issues and concerns were also raised such as the attainment of region’s rice sufficiency level for the year, the continued decline in commercial and municipal fishing, and the planned soft opening of the Laguindingan Airport in January 2013. Reports from the Bureau of

NEDA leads validation of NorMin’s 3rdQ economic performanceby Apipa P. Bagumbaran

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Hundreds of indigent and local barangay folks from both barangays BaclThe National Economic Development Authority - Region 10 (NEDA-10) spearheaded a roundtable discussion (RTD) to track down the economic performance of Northern Mindanao for the third quarter of 2012.


Agricultural Statistics (BAS) show that the rice sufficiency level of the region for the third quarter stood at 68.75 percent. However, the region’s forecast sufficiency level for the year is 74.91 percent. Commercial and municipal fishing, on the other hand, again posted declines in the third quarter of 2012. Commercial fishing went down by 16 percent and municipal fishing decreased by two percent. The participants of the RTD were

apprehensive on the opening of the Laguindingan Airport next year. Since the necessary air navigation facilities have not yet been installed, the soft opening of the airport next year will use Visual Flight Rule. All issues raised will be forwarded by NEDA-10 to concerned agencies while the results of the validation and assessment will be announced to the public by NEDA-10 through a media forum.

Lt. Col. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, commanding officer, 8th Infantry “Dependable” Battalion, reported that the NPA rebels killed Conrado Zulieta in nearby secluded area early last week. Incident report said that Conrado’s arms and legs had been twisted, cracking his bones that disfigured his corpse. After the attack, NPA rebels carted off Zulieta’s personal belongings, and firearms. Reports also said that the NPA rebels robbed banana plantation workers from DOLE Philippines, including those they met along the

path as they fled to the hills. “We call on human rights advocates such as ‘Karapatan’ and ‘Kasilo’ to unite and rally behind the call to condemn the barbaric acts of NPAs,” Cuerpo said. He also encouraged the public to immediately report to authorities NPA presence in their areas, including those whom they may observe to be illegally flagging down vehicles along the roads. “As peace-loving people, we have to shun violence and uphold human rights. The innocent civilians are seeking only one thing—peace and quiet, not war,” Cuerpo said.

NPA rebels rob, kill innocent villagers by FB,CMO8IB, PA/RLRB

VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon - About 20 New Peoples Army (NPA) rebels forcibly entered the home of village councilor Juliet Zulieta and abducted her husband, Conrado, in Purok 1, Barangay Lilingayon, Valencia City, Bukidnon.


DOST-X laboratory now offers latest Mercury analyzer by Admer Rey C. Dablio

CAGAYAN DE ORO - The Department of Science and Technology Region X Regional Standards and Testing Laboratories (DOST-X RSTL) launches its new service of mercury analysis through its latest analytical instrument, the Direct Mercury Analyzer (DMA-80).

This instrument employs thermal decomposition, amalgamation, and atomic absorption spectrophotometry for quicker mercury analysis. One advantage of the instrument is that it only requires minor sample preparation and detects even extremely little quantities of mercury up to 0.01 nanogram or parts per billion levels. Today, the laboratory accepts various types of samples for mercury analysis, like drinking water, environmental water, wastewater, soils, sediments, sludges, food, feeds, and biological samples, plastics like toys and packaging material, and even cosmetics for sectors such as mining, food processors, environmental monitoring, academic and non-academic researches, product regulations, and others. Numerous countries have already been using this technology for many years and its effectiveness relative to the conventional methods is satisfactory based on evaluation. Many analytical laboratories across the globe are using it as well. Also, this analytical method is an accepted method by the United States

Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the American Society for Testing and Material (ASTM). DOST-X RSTL is now participating in proficiency testing programs for mercury analysis using this new analytical method to further enhance its competence. Licensed chemists of RSTL were also trained to conduct this analysis. Mercury contamination of various types of samples has been one of the major concerns in the society now. Mercury is naturally present in the environment. It enters the air and water through the discharge of industrial waste, burning of fossil fuels, usage in mining industries like gold mining, and use of fungicides and pesticides. Mercury has received considerable attention because of the extreme toxicity of its organic form, methylmercury, which accumulates in fish tissues. Humans are exposed to mercury mostly through the consumption of contaminated fish and shellfish. This is according to the study of the USEPA entitled “Mercury Update: Impact on Fish Advisories.”


TAGUM CITY- The railway network system is proving to be a necessity for the Davao Region and has been included by the region’s develop-ment planners for consideration in the region’s area development plan. “Aaabutan ko pa yan (it may yet become possible during my term),” Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario said in a press conference

held at the Bulwagan Hall of the Provincial Government Center in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. Del Rosario said “kulang na ang road network (we lack road network)” in Mindanao. In the Davao Region alone, he added, there is only one national road which is used to transport both people and products. “The fastest way to transport people and products is through a railway system and its regime is soon to come,”

he said. He said they have been talking about the establishment of a railway system in Mindanao since 20 years ago. But that’s how it works---it will take a long time to put up such infrastructure. “But when it becomes a necessity and I think it is becoming a necessity then it will come,” he said.This is part of del Rosario’s vision

Railway network, a necessity for Davao Region-Guvby Lovely Carillo


to improve the connectivity within the Davao Region which for now is relegated to the development and improvement of existing road networks. He said the province is in the center of Southern Mindanao and he cited the advantage brought about by the Bukidnon-Talaingod road network. Del Rosario said producers and traders from Bukidnon would find it

easier to transport their products through the Bukidnon-Talaingod Road in Davao del Norte going to Sasa compared to the Buda-Calinan route in Davao City. While we have to contend with the various road projects in the province now, he said, the construction of the railways system for the province and for the region is still a possibility.(LAC)

Mindanao Communicators’ meet in Davao Cityby Rudolph Alama

DAVAO CITY- Public informa-tion and communication officers from all over Mindanao gathered in Davao for the 2012 Mindanao Communicators’ Congress and Workshop which will run from No-vember 28 to November 30.

The congress and workshop held at the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao welcomed the presence of more than 150 delegates during the opening ceremony which was graced by Secretary Sonny Coloma of the P r e s i d e n t i a l Communications Operations Office (PCOO) who

delivered the keynote speech. During his speech Coloma reiterated Mindanao’s bright opportunities amidst rosy economic prospects of the country which has grown an unprecedented 7.1% for


the third quarter of this year. Coloma said that the President’s efforts in achieving peace in the island is a continuation of a legacy started by his parents the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino and former President Corazon Aquino which jumpstarted the peace talks in 1986 with the secessionists rebels. Senator Gregorio Honasan also attended the November 29 morning session where he discussed the updates of the Freedom of Information (FOI)/Public Ownership of Government Information (POGI) bills and moves on the institutionalization of government information officers. The congress carries the theme “Communicating Mindanao’s Opportunities and Best Practices.” And is graced by speakers which expound on other various topics like responsible mining, the peace process, banana industry, Mindanao’s research

and policy a g e n d a and the convergence program of Davao del Norte.N o t e d s p e a k e r s include Sec. T e r e s i t a Deles, the Presidential Adviser on the Peace P r o c e s s , S t e p h e n A n t i g , execut ive-director of

the Philippine Banana Growers and Exporters Association, Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario, Janet Lopoz of the Mindanao Development Authority and Dr. Rolando Doria, chairperson of the Responsible Mining in Mindanao Council. The event is one of the major activities of the Mindanao Communicators’ Network in cooperation with the Philippine Information Agency and the PCOO. The MindaComNet is an organization composed of government public information and relations officers coming from national government agencies (NGAs), government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCCs), government financial institutions (GFIs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and local government units (LGUs) in Mindanao.


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Caraga offers tribute on 100th day of Robredo’s Deathby Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa

BUTUAN CITY -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 13 (Caraga) together with other partner agencies gathered at the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Butuan City on Monday evening, November 26 to give tribute on the 100th day of Jesse M. Robredo’s death.


A moment of silence was offered for the late Jesse M. Robredo as each one quietly gave their prayers for his soul. An ecumenical prayer by the Lumad, Christian, and the Islam were also said. The gathering at PPA grounds is part of the 18-day campaign of putting an end to violence against women (VAW) in Caraga with the theme VAW-Free Society in Times of Peace, Conflict and Calamity. The late Jesse M. Robredo was an advocate of anti-violence against women. Just last March 28 of this year, Robredo issued Memorandum Circular

No. 2012-61 for the guidelines in the establishment and management of a referral system on VAW at the local government unit level. The memorandum aims to establish a referral system at the local government level to have an integrated and coordinated community response to victims of violence against women. In this regard, all local governments are encouraged to adopt and implement the guidelines in providing response to victims of violence. The highlight of the evening was the lighting and floating of candles and flowers in the Agusan River.

Caraga RDC passes resolution to include the DOJ and PCA as members of the PICOPATIN-AY, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur -- The Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) passed a resolution requesting the amendment of Memorandum Circular No. 129 (S. 1991), establishing the Port Integrated Clearance Office (PICO) in all major ports in the country, to include the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) as members.

by David M. Suyao


Caraga RDC passes resolution to include the DOJ and PCA as members of the PICO

During the recent RDC full council meeting here, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Asst. Regional Director Mylah Faye Carino presented the resolution to hasten the issuance of court order to open sealed container vans suspected of carrying illegal items. “In addition, the RDC Development Administration also proposed the inclusion of the Philippine Coconut Authority as member in order to look after possible illegal shipment of

naturally grown trees which maybe mixed together with coconut lumber in the container vans,” Carino said. “The presence of the PCA in the PICO would also tighten the monitoring and checking of the shipment of coconut lumber and seeds without permit from the PCA,” Carino said. A few months ago, millions worth of logs and flitches were seized in Butuan City along the Agusan River by the authorities in Butuan City.

Surigao del Sur free from red tide toxin --BFARby Danilo S. Makiling

BUTUAN CITY --The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-Caraga said Hinatuan, Bislig and Lianga Bays in Surigao del Sur are free from red tide toxin.

In its Shellfish Bulletin No. 27 dated November 23, 2012, BFAR said all shellfish around the area of Surigao del Sur are safe for human consumption. However, shellfish from the waters of Dumanquillas Bay, Zamboanga del Sur, Murchelagos Bay in Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental are still positive for paralytic shellfish poison, and all kinds of shellfish are

not safe for consumption. BFAR reminded the people to avoid consuming shellfish and alamang from the affected areas. They also said fish, squid, shrimps and crabs are safe for human consumption provided that these are fresh and washed thoroughly and internal organs such as gills and intestines are removed before cooking.


ARMM, TESDA step up tech-voc training for youth

Enrolment of youth in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) for technical vocational education and training (TVET) will be intensified until the end of the year as part of the region’s

education goals, a TESDA statement said.

About 4,500 more beneficiaries are being targeted to be absorbed for November and December in the TVET programs that are being implemented with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda). The target scholars will be among the 8,956 youth that ARMM intends to train through the

Tesda using the P61.6 million fund allotted in August this year. The training fund was part of the P5.89 billion Transition Investment Support Plan (TISP) that the government provided to the region to fast track key development initiatives and reforms. Of the 8,956 target scholars,


ARMM dad vows to continue reforms, puts premium on economic agendaby Apipa P. Bagumbaran

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv S. Hataman vowed not only to continue the reforms being implemented in the region but also to prioritize socio-economic agenda.

ARMM has so far enrolled and trained a total of 4,497 or about 50 percent, according to a report to Secretary Joel Villanueva, Tesda Director General. “We are optimistic that the region will meet its commitment by the end of the year. There are hundreds of youth out there needing skills to be gainfully employed and earn income for their families through TVET,” Villanueva said. Villanueva urged ARMM and TESDA offices in charge of the program to work closely to reach out to potential beneficiaries, especially in far-flung areas of the region, where education and training is most needed. “This is one opportunity we don’t want our poor youth to miss. It could be life-changing,” he said. The beneficiaries will be enrolled through TESDA’s scholarship programs, namely: Training for Work Scholarship

Program (TWSP), Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) program and TWSP for Youth and Ulama program. Among the courses to be offered are Food and Beverage Services, Auto Servicing, Massage Therapy, Household Services, Masonry, Health Care Services, Agricultural Crops Production, Tour Guiding Services, Commercial Cooking, Electrical Installation and Maintenance, andCarpentry. Graduates will undergo competency assessment to determine if they can be certified TESDA Specialista after the training. Passers will be awarded their TESDA National Certificate or Certificate of Competency. ARMM is composed of the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and the City of Marawi. (Tesda)


Hataman announced this during the opening of the 23rd ARMM anniversary celebration held in Cotabato City, Monday, November 19. The ARMM governor, in his keynote message, identified economic thrust to substantiate the reform agenda forged for the region. He also underscored the need to push further the development of agribusiness for lasting peace in the region. Series of investment meetings have taken place as local and foreign investors expressed interest in the field of agricultural expansion. Earlier, regional officials graced the launching of the P579-million worth banana expansion project of Del Monte Phil. in Datu Abdullah

Sangki, Maguindanao province which would generate at least 3,000 local jobs. I n v e s t m e n t mogul John Perrine of Uni-Frutti Inc. has likewise visited Talayan municipality for a proposed banana expansion and palm oil processing in the area. H a t a m a n said the inflow of foreign and local investments signals the strengthening of the regional economy. This is a proof that investors have trust and confidence in the

investment potential of the region, he added In line with this, an investment forum was staged on November 24 as part of the month-long celebration. The forum carried the theme: Philippine-Malaysia Investments: Fostering Sustainable Development in Muslim Mindanao. The regional governor, meanwhile, commended social service key players for an increase in budget allocation following re-established confidence of the national government to the regional leadership. Hataman also assured the housing project for the region’s employees will be completed within his term.(armmcommgroup)


Photo GalleryMedia Forum on the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement

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One Mindanao - November 29, 2012

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Transcript of One Mindanao - November 29, 2012