Vol 7
In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS
Katherine Joy Lamprea of the Regional Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council in Western Visayas proesents the salient features of Republic Act 9344 or Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act 2006 during a forum participated in by students and teachers of five public high schools in Iloilo City on November 21 at Casa Real Iloilo. The activity was held in line with the observance of the 6th Juvenile Justice Welfare and Consciousness Week this year. (laf/ PIA6-Iloilo)
More on Region 6, pages 2-3.
CENTRAL VISAYAS
Nov. 20 - 26, 2017
Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8
Issue 47
Diokno: CESOs are no ordinary mortals Easter Anne D. Doza NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Nov. 23 (PIA6) -- Budget Secretary and keynote speaker Benjamin Diokno of the 16th Career Executive Service Conference held in Bacolod City said CESOs are not ordinary mortals. “You are not ordinary mortals. You are supposed to be the vanguards of efficiency, effectiveness and transparency. As CESOs you have persevered to become leaders in government service. You have sacrificed a large amount of time, effort and patience and worked hard to develop a broad set of critical management skills that allows our government to deliver meaningful public service to the Filipino people,” Diokno told the more than 700 Career Executive Service Officers (CESO) who attended the annual conference. According to Diokno, CESOs provide the critical link between the political leadership and the rest of the bureaucracy. “Politicians come and go but you stay. That is an awesome responsibility. Much is expected from you, and you should not disappoint the Filipino people” Diokno said urging them to continue to persevere and look for better ways to deliver public services for the common good. Meanwhile, Diokno said that the Duterte administration is bent on achieving the four specific goals anchored on the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022. These are to reduce poverty to 14 percent from 21.6 percent in 2015; raise Gross Domestic Product growth to 8 percent annually for the next 5 years; realize the golden age of infrastructure through the national government‟s Build! Build! Build! Program; and reinforce the social services sector by sustaining its
high share in the budget. However, according to Diokno, these goals will not be achieved by maintaining the status quo, thus the government complements these with budget reforms that will improve the nation‟s fiscal transparency, accountability and prudence in spending. “Policies and reforms no matter how well-crafted are useless unless we are operating like an efficient well-oiled machine. Therefore, let us firm our grasp and be resolute in what we want to achieve,” Diokno added challenging the third level government managers and career executives.* (JCM/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)
Budget
Secretary
Benjamin
Diokno:
CESOs
are
vanguards
of
efficiency, effectiveness and transparency in government service. (PIA-Negros Occidental)
ASEAN integration an economic opportunity for Filipinos Speakers of “Beyond ASEAN@50” Regional Symposium together with officials of PASCN, PIDS and SU (seated L-R): DFA - Office of ASEAN Affairs Principal Assistant for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Division Alfred Kristoffer Guiang, PASCN Project Director Erlinda Medalla, PIDS President and PASCN Lead Convener Dr. Gilberto Llanto, SU-CBA Dean Dr. Gloria Futalan, PIDS Research Information Director Dr. Sheila Siar, Justin Eloriaga of De La Salle University Economics Organization, and PIDS Research Fellow Dr. Francis Mark Quimba take a group photo with the attendees of the symposium. The event was held on Nov. 20, 2017 at SU-CBA MBA Presentation Room, Dumaguete City. (ral/PIA7-Negros Oriental)
More on Region 7, pages 4-5. Also CLICK Here...
By Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Nov. 22 (PIA) -- In the context of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Integration, ten (10) countries are involved where the Philippines is one of them, being a member of ASEAN economic community. In a forum held with the business sector and some different stakeholders throughout the province of Southern Leyte, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) conducted a forum on Understanding Competition, Industry Development and Market Economy in the Context of ASEAN Integration. It is envisioned as ASEAN Economic Community 2025 which includes competitive, innovative and dynamic ASEAN as a whole; Integrated and highly cohesive economy; resilient, inclusive, people-oriented and people centered ASEAN; Enhanced connectivity and sectoral cooperation; and a global ASEAN, DTI Provincial Director Michael B. Nńnez in his presentation said. With the ASEAN Integration, there will be larger economy, where about 635 million ASEAN consumers are considered, while in the Philippines, only about a hundred million consumers are involved, Nuńez expounded.
In his presentation, Nuńez shared matrix on how competitive the Philippines is – with the data gathered from year 2016 to 2017 , the Philippines ranked #57 out of 190 countries, while year 2017-2018, the country ranked #56 out of 137 countries involved. He said that “we‟ve got no other choice but to innovate.” Filipinos should be united, and each one should be efficient and effective enough to be competitive. “Talking of economy,” Nuńez disclosed that it is an activity related to production, consumption and trade of goods and services in a certain area.” Countries that are developed – people are also well developed, he added. On the other hand, DTI Assistant Secretary Dr. Rafaelita M. Aldaba discussed on the Competition Policy in the Context of ASEAN Ecnomic Community topics. She expounded on competition policy matters and how to preserve and promote competition through prevention of restrictive business practices, abuses of market power by firms and inefficient government regulations., among others on how to be competitive in terms of economy. (rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)
EASTERN VISAYAS
Cebu PIOs welcome 'PCO Net' Ferliza Contratista CEBU CITY, November 22 (PIA) – Local and national government information officers in Cebu welcomed the establishment of the Provincial Communication Officers Network ESTERO ClEAN -UP DRIVE. DENR-Biliran leads (PCO Net). the Estero Clean-Up Drive in cooperation with the Sofronio Pintado Jr., public information officer of the officials and employees of the local government unit of Naval, faculty, staff and students of the Naval Municipality of Tuburan and Cebu Association of City and Municipal State University, the officials and employees of Public Information Officers (CAOCAMPIO) president, said the DepEd-Biliran, and the officials of barangays move of the Presidential Communications Operations Office Calumpang and P. I. Garcia in Naval, Biliran. The (PCOO) to establish a network that will go down to the barangay Estero Clean-Up Drive, which started 6am today, level is a welcome move by the organization. Saturday, November 18, 2017, at the Calumpang He said CAOCAMPIO is already an established Dispo Bridge down to Barangay P. I. Garcia, is in network where government information flows from the local line with the celebrations of the National Climate government unit to the public and the media and receives Change Consciousness and Awareness Month and feedback. Climate Change Week in November, 2017. “Ang PCO Net makapahingusog pa gayud sa atong tinguha (rvictoria/PIA Biliran) nga epektibo ug abling komunikasyon gikan sa gobyerno ngadto sa publiko, tungod kay gikan ang mga impormasyon sa buhatan sa Presidente. (The PCO Net will strengthen all the more our aim of More on Region 8, pages 6-7. effective and open communication from the government to the Also CLICK Here... public since the information is coming directly from the Office of the President),” said Pintado.
Gay Visitacion, Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) information officer and vice president of the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO), likewise shared the same sentiment, saying that communication is a transparency and accountability tool. PCOO Assistant Secretary for Operations and Special Concerns, Anna Marie Rafael-Banaag, initiated an interaction with the information officers recently to urge them to continue being the bearers of news from the government. “As information officers, you can influence and inspire the rest of the sectors in your community on responsible sharing of information and not fake news,” Banaag said. All the members of CAOCAMPIO and AGIO automatically become members of the PCONet. The AGIO and CAOCAMPIO networks were organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). PIA serves as the organizations' secretariat and facilitates its monthly briefings and several trainings to capacitate them with the skills they need to become effective communicators of their respective local government units and offices. (fcc/ PIA7-Cebu)
2 Aklan farmers machineries
WESTERN VISAYAS
get
P10M
worth
of
By: Venus G. Villanueva
KALIBO, Aklan, Nov. 24 (PIA6) -- Farmers' associations from Aklan‘s 15 municipalities recently received various types of farm machineries and equipment in a turnover ceremony held at the ABL Sports Complex, Capitol Grounds, Kalibo, Aklan.
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klan governor Florencio T. Miraflores, who led the turnover ceremony, said the machineries and equipment were worth P10 million with farmers organizations as beneficiaries. The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist through Salome David, Assistant Provincial Agriculturist, Vice Governor Reynaldo M. Quimpo, and Aklan SP members assisted Miraflores in the turn -over ceremonies. Turned over to farmers' groups were 25 hand tractors, 25 threshers, 10 floating tillers, 5 reapers and 277 knapsack sprayers. Of the farmers' associations, those from Balete, Batan and Ibajay received a complete set of machineries and equipment composed of hand tractors, thresher, floating tiller and reaper. The rest of the associations had either a set of hand tractor and thresher, or floating tiller and reaper. Most of the associations were given knapsack sprayers. Of Aklan‟s 17 municipalities, only the towns of
Tangalan and Numancia had no recipients. Miraflores, however, assured those who have not received yet will have their turn next year, as the province will also earmark next year another P10 million for farm machineries. The governor assured the farm associations that the machineries are for free, but appealed to the farm associations to take very good care of the implements so that they could use these for a long period of time. “Please use these machineries wisely and be sure that all members will also be able to use these. We are giving this support to improve farmers‟ lives,” Miraflores told the farmers. Meanwhile, Vice Governor Reynaldo Quimpo, in his message, assured the farmers of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan‟s support to them, as the SP has a committee on agriculture which is very passionate about improving the lives of farmers and increasing agriculture production, in turn strengthening the sector to support the province‟
tourism industry. Salome David, Asst. Provincial Agriculturist, on the other hand, reminded the farmers to take very good care of the machineries so that they will be able to use them for a much longer time. “You are very lucky for receiving these machineries. Please make sure to accommodate all members to use them, and regularly submit to us a utilization report to justify to the Commission on Audit that the machineries were indeed used”, David told the farmers. In the same occasion, the Department of Agrarian Reform, headed by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Ma. Teresa Valencia, also turned 2 units of bio shredder to DAR beneficiaries; while Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) OIC Provincial Fisheries Director May Guanco turned food carts for Numancia, Ibajay and Buruanga beneficiaries. (JCM/ VGV PIA6 Aklan)
DOT6: Ilonggos urged ‗bring home a friend‘ By: Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Nov. 24 (PIA6) --- The Department of Tourism (DOT)-6 encouraged Ilonggos residing here and abroad to invite their foreigner friends to come and visit the Philippines.
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n the launching of the “Bring Home a Friend” program in Region 6 held Nov. 24 at SM City here, DOT-6 Regional Director Helen Catalbas said that word-of-mouth plays a big role in motivating tourists to visit the country. Based on DOT 2016 Visitors Sample Survey, 51.80 percent of tourists came to the Philippines upon their friend‟s recommendation while 14.10 percent have friends or relatives in the country. DOT‟s BHAF Program primarily aims to encourage Filipinos both residing here and abroad to help promote Philippine tourism by inviting foreign friends to come and visit the Philippines. “This is one of our promotional campaigns to reach our targets and improve further the economy of the Philippines while spreading goodwill among the people of the world,” Catalbas said. The BHAF program is open to Filipinos of legal age and Filipinos with dual citizenship living in the
Philippines or abroad as residents or overseas contract workers. Also qualified are foreigners living in the Philippines permanently or temporarily for a minimum of six months prior to the raffle. Those interested to join have to invite or sponsor anyone holding a foreign (non-Filipino) passport or dual citizenship living abroad for a minimum of six months prior to the event and has traveled to the Philippines during the specified period of time. The sponsors will have the chance to win a condominium unit from Megaworld Corporation (1st prize), Toyota Vios (2nd prize) and P200,000 worth of Duty Free Philippines gift certificate (3rd prize). Meanwhile, the invitees can win two round-trip international Business Class tickets and two round-trip tickets to Palawan plus six days/five nights at El Nido Hotel and Resort (1st prize); two
round-trip international Premium Economy (or Economy if not applicable) Class tickets and two round-trip Domestic Tickets to Cebu plus five days/ four nights stay at JPark Island Resort and Water Park Cebu (2nd prize); and two round-trip international Economy Class Tickets and two round-trip Domestic tickets to Davao plus five days/ four nights stay at Pearl Farm Beach Resort (3rd prize). To join, the sponsor and invitee must duly accomplish the registration via the Bring Home a Friend website accessible via the department‟s website at tourism.gov.ph or through the booths located at specific airport. The program will run for six months starting from October 15, 2017 up to April 15, 2018. Winner will be selected through an electronic raffle draw. Program mechanics are available at the www.bringhomeafriend.online. (JCM/LTP/DOT/ PIA-Iloilo)
2 Capiz business firms get BAGWIS award by Alex A. Lumaque ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Nov. 23 (PIA6) – A plaque was awarded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Regional Office 6 to Toyota – Roxas and to Imperial Appliance Plaza, both in Roxas City, for being among the silver awardees in the region for its Bagwis Seal of Excellence Awards Program this year.
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he award for Toyota – Roxas was received by its branch manager Engr. Roque Jarillo, Jr. and his staff Richelle Oropio while recognition of Imperial Appliance Plaza – Roxas was accepted by its branch manager Romulo Belviz and his staff Marice Patorara. DTI Provincial Office Public Information Officer Merian Asas said that the BAGWIS Program aims to give due recognition to establishments that uphold the rights of consumers and practice responsible business where consumers get value for their money.
“It was designed to promote and foster the highest level of business ethics and uphold a fair and honest marketplace through voluntary self-regulation and service excellence,” she stressed. The program also encourages the setting up of a sustainable Consumer Welfare Desk (CWD) or a DTI recognized customer service counter that will provide information to consumers and serves as mechanism for speedy resolution of consumer complaints. The applications for the Award were processed and endorsed by the Provincial Evaluation
Committee to the Regional Certification Committee which conducted the final evaluation of qualified applicants. Establishments like supermarkets, department stores, appliance centers to hardware stores and DTI accredited service and repair shops could qualify for the seal. Recipients of the DTI citation display the plaque on their respective establishments. Based on DTI – Capiz records, a number of establishments in the province have been Bagwis awardees in the bronze, silver and gold categories. (JCM/AAL/PIA6 Capiz)
WESTERN VISAYAS
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RJJWC: ensure protection of children By: Lilibeth A. French ILOILO CITY, Nov. 23 (PIA6) - - The Regional Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council (RJJWC) in Western Visayas is urging schools here to strengthen their Child Protection Committee (CPC) to ensure that children, especially those at risk, are protected from all forms of abuse and violence.
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atherine Joy Lamprea of the RJJWC made the call during a Forum on Republic Act 9344 or Juvenile Justice Welfare Act 2006 participated in by students and teachers of five public high schools in this city held at Casa Real Iloilo. The same activity was held at the Central Philippine University and Colegio Sagrado Corazon de Jesus on Wednesday. Lamprea said the establishment of CPCs is contained in DepEd Order No. 40 s. 2012 on its Child Protection Policy. School heads/administrators, teachers, parents, students, and representative from the community compose the CPC. “A functional CPC will ensure that there are local policies and guidelines intended for the prevention and protection of children from
abuse, violence, exploitation, discrimination, bullying and other forms of abuse in schools,” said Lamprea. She said the forum provided them the opportunity to remind schools of the existing Child Protection Policy of DepEd and advocate RA 9344 as amended by Republic Act 10630 to school officials, teachers and especially to students to make them aware of using their rights in a manner that can help other children especially those who are at risk in getting into conflict with the law. The series of fora including the Stakeholders‟ Forum in Guimaras on November 23 are part of the activities that RJJWC organized for the 6th Juvenile Justice and Welfare Consciousness Week from November 19 to 25 that carries the theme
“Mapagkalingang Hustisya: Ugaliin at Pagtibayin! “This year‟s observance theme focuses on the concept of restorative justice referring to the principle of resolving conflict with the maximum involvement of the offender, offended and the community,” said Lamprea. She also called on local government units to allocate 1% of their Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) for the strengthening of their Local Council for the Protection of Children as well as to craft and implement a list of juvenile intervention program. Data from the Regional Sub-Committee for the Welfare of Children provided by the Police Regional Office 6 – Women and Children Protection Desk showed that 288 cases of Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) were recorded as of 2015 in Western Visayas. (JCM/laf/PIA6-Iloilo)
P40M rehab of Malandog River underway By: Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique - - The stakeholders involved in the rehabilitation and development of Malandog River recently met to discuss the P40M worth of project geared towards its rehabilitation and development.
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rovincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Andres T. Untal in a meeting said that priority should be given to rehabilitate and develop Malandog river for its significant contribution to Antique‟s environment, social life of the people, culture and religion, economy, politics, internal security and a lot more. This year DENR has allotted a total of P40M fund for the rehabilitation and development of Malandog River in partnership the Provincial Government facilitated through the Office of Senator Loren Legarda. During the recent meeting, it was proposed that the Task Force Malandog River be created with convergence of efforts among agencies, local government units and civil society groups to undertake the rehab and development
activities. First on the list are activities that will lead to the assessment, profiling and characterization of the River which includes survey, mapping and planning; inventory of boats, inventory of informal settlers and structures along the river among other pre-engineering activities. District Engineer Elsie Sabay of DPWH said that Malandog River Comprehensive Master Plan will be formulated after the profiling and pre-engineering activities are accomplished. Eco-tourism development is also part of the program with proposed rehab and improvement of riverbanks and expansion of embankment. For better partnership and engagement not only of agencies and LGUs concerned but importantly the community affected, communication, education and public awareness activities are also
essential parts of the program. There will be community meetings and consultations, symposium in schools, production of advocacy materials in partnership with the local media and information officers DENR will also engaged the services of the technical persons/experts particularly laboratory analysis of the water as to presence of heavy metals and pesticides. It can be recalled that during the Tiringbanay Festival of the town of San Jose, the local government unit launched the Tubigon Solidarity Cruise from the mouth of Malandog river to Barangay Bariri, to highlight the historical and cultural significance to the Tiringbanay Festival as well as advocate for the protection and conservation of Tubigon river now known as Malandog River. (JCM/ PSM/PIA6Antique)
Iloilo still filariasis-free By: Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Nov. 21 (PIA6) --- The province of Iloilo has maintained its filariasis-free status based on the transmission assessment survey (TAS) conducted this year, according to the Department of Health (DOH)-6.
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iño Chad Genona, DOH-6 Medical mosquitoes. Technologists II, said that Iloilo The infection is caused by three species province remains free from filarial of thread-like nematode worms known as parasites two years after the declaration of DOH in filariae – Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi and 2015. Brugia timori. “Iloilo province passed the WHO (World The painful and disfiguring visible manifestations Health Organization) test assessment survey 2 this of the disease, lymphoedema, elephantiasis and 2017,” he said. scrotal swelling occur later in life and can lead to According to WHO, lymphatic filariasis, permanent disability. commonly known as elephantiasis, is a neglected Genona said that aside from the province of tropical disease and this infection occurs when Iloilo, the province Capiz and Iloilo City have also filarial parasites are transmitted to humans through been recognized as filariasis-free areas in 2016 and
2017, respectively. He said that they have to conduct further evaluation and transmission assessment surveys in the provinces of Aklan and Antique, while the department has not recorded any filariasis case in Guimaras and Negros Occidental. “Our mission is to eliminate filariasis as a public health problem through comprehensive approach and universal access through quality health services,” he said. He added that their goal is to eliminate filariasis as a public health problem by 2018. (JCM/LTP/PIAIloilo)
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CENTRAL VISAYAS
NegOr marks Children‘s Month to keep kids away from drugs By Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Nov. 20 (PIA) – The province of Negros Oriental joined the country in celebrating the 25th National Children‘s Month with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) lining up activities on children‘s rights advocacy and campaign on the protection of children from illegal drugs.
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Kapihan sa PIA Forum was held in line with the celebration with this year's theme as the topic: “Bata: Iligtas sa Droga!” where PSWDO urged local government units (LGUs) to help keep children away from drugs. Provincial Social Welfare Officer Alice Lagarde said the LGUs in the province, particularly health and social workers, are now capacitated to handle children affected with illegal drugs.
While the PSWDO handles day care children in the province, Lagarde said the DSWD will be involved in addressing the problems of surrenderers especially in the aftercare program and also help provide livelihood or educational assistance to the young surrenderers. The PSWDO also set a Provincial State of Children‟s Report on November 21 where Acting Governor Mark Macias is expected to deliver the State of Children‟s Report.
Afterwards, various children‟s contests will be held such as „draw and tell‟, singing, and folk dances. Lagarde said more than 100 day care children, teachers, parents, and municipal social workers from the 19 local government units in the province are expected to participate in the said activities. (jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental with reports from Krysha Agnitha M. Almagro, SU Intern)
Gov. Chatto: Report anyone who claims to be NPA Rey Anthony Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, Nov. 22 (PIA) -- Anyone who claims to be a member of any of the rebel groups should be reported.
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his was the reminder issued by Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto during the recent meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) at the Governor's Mansion. “When a person says he is NPA, report immediately to authorities,” the governor instructed. The governor's statement supported the previous statements issued by 47th Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Eufracio Malig. Col. Malig earlier reacted to a question about the proper protocol for strangers claiming to be members of the New People's Army (NPA) who approach civilians asking for help or money. “Without appearing to be intimidated, find a way to report this,” Col. Malig urged. “NPAs are outlaws, they are armed so we would appreciate if you could get more information
from them,” he explained. Both statements fit to the need of Boholanos to be reaffirmed that Bohol has been declared insurgency-free since 2010, after being hounded by decades long of wrestling with the communist insurgents since early 1970s. A Boholano businessman came forward to ask for help after falling victim to a false claim, allegedly by NPA members. Alleged members of the NPA approached the businessman asking for two armalite rifles. He reportedly haggled and gave a hefty sum through his helper who sent it through a “pera padala” facility. Adding to Col. Malig, 302nd Brigade Commander General Arnulfo Matanguihan also reminded members of the PPOC in a joint meeting with the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) that most NPAs do not just divulge their
identities. Earlier in the meeting, 3rd Infantry Division officer Army Major John Aying revealed that among the threats Bohol is facing is the continuing efforts by the insurgents to return. Groups are trying to recover their lost grounds, he said. On this, the governor said: "We must not let our guards down." “We have been declared insurgency-free and are insurgent normalized, the challenge then is to be able to prevent their resurgence,” Maj. Aying said. Anyone claiming he is NPA must be invited for questioning, the governor said, clarifying that an invitation is not an arrest. Local officials jointly urged communities in Bohol to be more vigilant and keep their guards up to repel and deny the insurgents the chance to strike fear again. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)
NIA offers free irrigation service to farmers Rizalie Calibo SIQUIJOR, Nov. 22 (PIA) -- The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) announced that it has stopped collecting amortization and service fees from farmers nationwide.
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egional Irrigator Division Service (IDS) Chief Elvira Alvarado said the implementation of the free irrigation service started in the first cropping season of this year as a result of President Rodrigo Duterte administration‟s subsidy fund of P2 billion to NIA under the 2017 GAA or Republic Act 10924. Corporate farms, plantations, fishponds, and other non-agricultural crop users drawing water or using drainage facilities are not covered by the free irrigation service program. Alvarado said that under its resolution, NIA stops collecting amortization and equity payments from farmers and Irrigators Associations (IA) in the construction, rehabilitation, restoration and expansion of service areas of communal irrigation systems (CIS), small irrigation systems (SIS), pump irrigation systems (PIS), including shallow tube wells (STWs), and small reservoir irrigation
systems (SRIS). Projects with local government units‟ (LGUs) participation with the equity requirement from the concerned LGU is maintained, she said. All bank accounts or unpaid ISF amortization and equity payments before the effectivity of RA 10924 remain as liabilities of farmers and IAs, Alvarado explained. Collection of such liabilities shall be pursued by NIA in collaboration with the Office of the Solicitor General and Office of the Government Corporate Counsel, she added. IAs may also be tapped by NIA in the collection of back accounts subject to terms, agreements, and conditions. Alvarado also shared that due to the government subsidy, farmers who have maintained irrigation canals can now receive compensation and incentive for their respective irrigation canals.
NIA, she said, will pay P1,750 per 7km for cemented irrigation canals and P1,750 per 3.5 km for not cemented. Qualified farmers will receive the payment six times a year. In addition, NIA will also pay P150 per hectare per cropping season of the irrigated and planted areas. Alvarado also reminded farmers that prior to the release of payment, validation and evaluation will be done. This is to encourage all farmers to plant every cropping season and maintain properly their irrigation system, she said. On top of the incentives, they will also become contributors for the attainment of the government‟s thrust for food security and sufficiency for all. (rac/PIA7-Siquijor w/ reports from IAAbatayo)
CENTRAL VISAYAS
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Beyond ASEAN@50 regional forum held in Silliman University Roi Anthoni Lomotan DUMAGUETE CITY, Nov. 21 (PIA) -- The Philippine APEC Study Center Network (PASCN) and the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) together with Silliman University (SU) yesterday held a regional symposium on ―Beyond ASEAN@50: Opportunities and challenges for this regional integration‖ at SU-College of Business Administration MBA Presentation Room.
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he event is one of PASCN‟s information dissemination activities which provides opportunity for researchers to present and disseminate results and key findings of their studies to various stakeholders. Aside from this, the symposium is also PASCN‟s contribution to the Philippines‟ chairmanship of ASEAN 2017. Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) - Office of ASEAN Affairs Principal Assistant for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Division, Alfred Kristoffer Guiang, delivered the event‟s keynote message on behalf of Assistant Secretary Ma. Hellen De La Vega of DFA who is the Director-General for ASEAN-Philippines National Secretariat. Guiang cited some of the highlights of the 31st ASEAN Summit and Related Summits held from November 10 to 14 in Manila in his speech. “The leaders signed the ASEAN Consensus on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Workers which strengthens the social protection, including humane and fair treatment, and access to justice and health services of the region‟s migrant workers,” Guiang said. “The 31st ASEAN Summit also saw the
adoption of important outcome documents that would strengthen our commitment and collective efforts to ensure peace and progress in the region through prevention and combating of cybercrime, and through innovation. Outcome documents that would improve the welfare of the people through ending all forms of malnutrition, combating anti-microbial resistance, youth development, women empowerment, climate change and disaster health management, among others were likewise adopted,” Guiang added. The symposium also featured lectures from four other speakers, namely: PIDS Research Information Director Dr. Sheila Siar, De La Salle University Economics Organization Representative Justin Eloriaga, SU- Department of Economics Faculty Orlando Roncesvalles, and Dr. Enrique Oracion, dean of SU-University Graduate Programs. Dr. Francis Mark Quimba, research fellow of PIDS summarized the key points reflected in the presentations delivered by the resources persons using the quote from Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong during his speech after he accepted the ASEAN Chairship from President Duterte during the
closing ceremony of the 31st ASEAN Summit. “We can find new ways to manage and harness digital technologies and equip our citizens with skills and capabilities and keep ASEAN a vibrant and dynamic place of our people to live, work and play,” Quimba echoed the message of Primie Minister Hsien. Quimbo said the topics discussed in the symposium is relevant since it gives an idea on what the future host of ASEAN wants to focus on in the following year, which is innovation and resilience. Meanwhile, Guiang lauded PASCN for organizing the symposium. “I thank the PIDS, PASCN, SU and its College of Business and Administration for organizing this regional symposium that would enhance public awareness on ASEAN, and the present opportunities and challenges for ASEAN integration. Public information and awareness is another area which places an opportunity for Filipino and ASEAN people to fully understand and appreciate ASEAN and eventually contribute to the attainment of our regional goals,” Guiang said. (ral/PIA7-Negros Oriental)
LGUS urged to adopt laws addressing rice wastage, brown rice consumption Ferliza Contratista CEBU CITY, Nov. 22 (PIA) — The Department of Agriculture (DA) here called on local government units (LGUs) to adopt measures in addressing rice wastage and promoting brown rice and other staples consumption.
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n today's Kapihan sa PIA Cebu forum, Leo Cañeda, regional director of DA-7, revealed that the daily wastage of rice among Filipinos is around two to three tablespoons, or a maximum of 14 grams. In terms of policy, Cañeda said the LGU can do more, such as the implementation of the “half rice” rule in all restaurants. So far in Central Visayas, the towns of Talibon and Tubigon in Bohol province, Valencia in Negros Oriental, and Cebu City in Cebu have an ordinance adopting the “half rice” rule.
Cañeda said it will be best for LGUS to also help in the consumption of brown rice. “The consumption of brown rice will result to a healthier body and at the same time we're helping in the increase of the income of farmers,” Cañeda said. He also suggested that Filipinos can mix well-polished rice with brown rice. Another way is to make use of other staple foods such as sweet potato, banana, and corn, he said. November is National Rice Awareness Month and DA has lined up activities focusing on eating
healthy and eating brown rice. Cheche dela Victoria, DA7 information officer, said most of the activities are in Bohol since the province is the "Rice Basket" of the region. They conducted feedings in three elementary schools with “binignit” mixed with brown rice. There will also be feedings in Cebu City. A fun run will also be held in Bohol and the observance‟s culmination will be in Negros Oriental and Siquijor provinces.(fcc/ PIA7-Cebu)
Policies on rehab program for drug dependents up Leandria Pagunsan DUMAGUETE CITY, Nov. 22 (PIA) — The Department of Health (DOH) is currently finalizing the policies and guidelines on the treatment and rehabilitation program for illegal drugs users.
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his was revealed by Dr. Socrates Villamor -orientation on community-based treatment of DOH here during a recent Kapihan sa and rehabilitation program for youth drug PIA forum on the topic “Bata: Iligtas sa surrenderers . Droga”. Villamor said that DOH has also been Villamor said that pending the final policies mandated to assess the category of patients who will and guidelines on the treatment and rehabilitation undergo treatment and rehabilitation. program for youth surrenderers, they are already Villamor explained that the Philippine National implementing the general rehabilitation program for Police (PNP) will do the profiling of the surrenderers all age group drug users. and submit it to DOH for assessment by the city DOH was earlier mandated to conduct training or municipal doctor who will classify them as low,
moderate, or severely affected. Those classified under low or moderately affected will be included in the community-based treatment and rehabilitation while those severely affected will be recommended for treatment in Cebu City. “Hopefully, the province of Negros Oriental can soon set up a rehabilitation center which is now considered by the provincial government,” Villamor said. (lpp/PIA7/Negros Oriental)
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EASTERN VISAYAS
DTI PD says Korean trip inspiring By: Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos
MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Nov. 22 (PIA) -- Before Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Southern Leyte Director Michael B. Nuńez talked on his topic ―Understanding the Philippine Economy and the ASEAN Economic Community‖ in a gathering of businessmen and some other stakeholders in the province, he shared some of his experiences during his Korea trip in coordination with the Philippine KOICA Fellows Association, Inc.
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It is an inspiring story to tell,” PD Nuńez told participants during the Understanding Competition, Industry Development and Market Economy in the Context of ASEAN Integration Forum held at Lourdes Convention Center, Friday here. He said that it is an inspiring story of political challenge, hard work, passion for learning and the willingness to excel in each field of endeavor, saying that “the outcome is awesome.” “Korea experienced the challenges of developing countries first hand because it was one of the poorest nations after World War II,” he said. It was through foreign aid and intensive training of human resources that Korea was able to recover
from the ashes of the Korean War in the 1950s and transformed itself into a globally-influential economy today, he added. Korean people are very disciplined and hardworking, “ they will always find ways how to be successful, Nuńez bared. There are 3 keys how Koreans obtain economic success, he added. First is the leader‟s vision, followed by the Korean‟s diligence and lastly, financial assistance from the United States. “They will not stop learning, after classes they went for tutorial, then learn more things how to innovate.” In a short presentation, Nuńez showed how Korea grew -- from 1960 up to 2010, and how they accomplished economic success. From Official
Development Assistance-recipient, Korea is now a Donor – from year 2000 with US$0.212Billion to US$244 Billion donation for year 2016. Nuńez said that the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) hopes that its technical assistance will similarly have the same stimulus on the growth and development of the Philippines.ICA aims to make a better world together by promoting equitable and sustainable development of its pa Koica aims to make a better world together by promoting equitable and sustainable development of its partner countries. It is also actively participating in the international communities' efforts to enable poor people to improve their quality of life, he said. (ajc/ rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)
DTI-Biliran distributes livelihood starter kits to MSMEs PIA - 8 NAVAL, Biliran, Nov. 22 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently distributed livelihood starter kits ang reward kits to 447 micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) in the entire province of Biliran.
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nder DTI‟s Livelihood Seeding Program (LSP), DTI-Biliran provincial office headed by Engr. Celerina Bato spent P1,931,989.00 for the starter and reward kits in support to the government‟s rehabilitation efforts in bringing back to normal the business activities in the entire province of Biliran affected by typhoons. Some parts of the province were badly hit by Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 and badly hit again by Typhoons Glenda, Henry, and Ruby in 2014 resulting to damages in properties, government infrastructures and facilities affecting economic activities and delivery of basic social services. The series of typhoons that tremendously affected MSMEs in the province of Biliran gave impetus to DTI-Biliran to distribute starter kits to 100 affected MSMEs in January 2015. However, more DTI-registered MSMEs made
snail paces to economic recovery urging the agency to support them recover. In the recent distribution, 65 beneficiaries from the municipality of Almeria received their starter kits; Cabucgayan - 40; Caibiran – 55; Kawayan -52; and Maripipi - 29 for food processing, and making gifts, decors, and housewares. The municipality of Biliran of 29 beneficiaries received starter kits for food processing and fish trading; the municipality of Culaba of 33 beneficiaries received starter kits for food processing; and the municipality of Naval of 144 beneficiaries received starter kits for food processing; making gifts, decors, and housewares; and cutflower, fruit and fish trading. The starter kits and reward kits include gas stoves with loaded LPG tank; basin, steamer, pan,
cauldron, corn mill, rice cake molder, ladle, weighing scale, electric sealer, calculator, stapler, floral foam, tray, big native basket (bakat), fish net, rubberized mat (trapal), knife, scissor, pruning shear, fish box, portable grinder with cutter blade, blow torch, measuring tape, electric hand drill, cross cut saw, claw hammer, electric bench grinder, combination pliers, and plaster of paris. Aside from the starter kits and reward kits, Congressman Rogelio Espina who attended the distribution, informed the recipient-beneficiaries of DTI‟s cash assistance with minimal interest compared to private and other lending agencies. Congressman Espina is hopeful the starter kits and cash assistance DTI extended will serve as catalysts in bringing back normal production and economic activities in their respective areas and sectors. (ajc/FJ/mlt/PIA8 Biliran)
Maternal and child health emphasized in Buntis Congress By Ninfa Iluminada B. Quirante BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Nov. 21 (PIA) – With the support of the provincial government of Eastern Samar, the provincial health office held Buntis Congress in Maydolong town on November 4, 2017.
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he Buntis Congress aims to improve the survival of women during pregnancy, delivery and post-partum, and reduce child mortality of under five children. This is a priority program of the Provincial Government of Eastern Samar, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) and the Department of Health (DOH).
Half of the pregnant women received the recommended minimum of at least four prenatal visits during the entire pregnancy. “Women who do not receive necessary checkup, miss the opportunity to detect problems and received appropriate care and treatment,” said PSWD Officer Josefina Paligutan in an interview. Lecturers emphasized the importance of
prenatal visit, facility-based delivery, nutrition during pregnancy, benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, danger/emergency signs of pregnancy- birth and emergency plan, Family Planning and Responsible Parenthood and new born screening. Barangay health workers were requested to keep an eye on the very young mothers aged 14 and 16. (ajc/nbq with Mel Caspe PIA 8-E. Samar)
EASTERN VISAYAS
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Top prelate blesses new breed of soldiers By: Ninfa Iluminada B. Quirante BORONGAN CITY, E. Samar Nov. 21 (PIA) – Calbayog Bishop Isabelo Abarquez blessed some 154 new breed of soldiers as they graduated on November 15, 2017.
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he 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army spearheaded the closing ceremony of the Candidate Soldier Course Class 463-17 and the Ceremonial Entrustment of Firearms held at 8th ID Jungle Base, Camp Eugenio Daza, Barangay Fatima, Hinabangan, Samar. The good bishop attended the closing ceremony as Guest of Honor and Speaker who further led the ceremonial entrustment of firearms, distribution of certificates and awarding of individual achievements. The entrustment of firearms symbolizes the soldiers' responsibilities and commitment to the people and the country. Majority of the new privates come from Eastern Visayas and Mindanao. On their educational profile, 19 of them are college graduates;
44 are college undergraduates and; 91 are high school graduates with skills training from TESDA. The privates were declared graduates by Lt. Col. Alexander N. Salgado, Commandant, 8th DTS for having completed the Basic Military Training (BMT) at the 8th Division Training School. Bishop Abarquez also extended his profound congratulations to the proud parents who gave their all-out support to their sons in order to hurdle the training for enlistment to the regular force of the AFP. In his message, Bishop Abarquez said that the progress and development of our country depends on our attitude towards our work.
“We should see our work as a real service to our country, to be good citizens of our country. You just have to do what is expected of you. Be good citizens, be good breed of soldiers. Use your profession for the greater glory of God and be productive for our country and community.” He likewise reminded the new breed of soldiers that no matter where they may be assigned, they should never forget to pray and to ask guidance from the Almighty Father. In behalf of the 8th ID Commander, Col. Clifford Cyril Y. Riveral, Assistant Division Commander for Reservists and Retiree Affairs challenged the members of the candidate soldier class 463-17 to take advantage of the gains of their training. (ajc/gmt/PIA 8-E Samar with Capt Francis R Agno 8th IDPAO)
DTI Leyte holds Diskwento Caravan By: Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Nov. 21 (PIA) – Sixteen local distributors and entrepreneurs in the city participated in the three-day Diskwento: Noche Buena Edition on November 15-17, 2017 at Plaza Rizal, this city.
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he event was in time for the forthcoming Christmas season this December. In a short interview, DTI-Leyte Consumer Welfare Division Chief Araceli D. Larraga said consumers may avail quality products at discounted prices. Participating distributors and entrepreneurs included Fast Distribution Corp., Dranix Distribution, River Valley Distribution, R8 Distribution Line, CM Distribution, CCT Ventures, RAM Food Products, Virginia Foods, Gardenia Bakeries, 578 Resources, UNItop Tacloban, United
Producers of Tacloban, Leyte Treats and Ethnic Foods and Crafts Association, Quality Noche Buena products and other micro small and medium enterprises. Locally made products were also exhibited at the venue targeting half a million sale. The Diskwento Caravan opened from 8:00 o‟clock in the morning until 5:00 o‟clock in the afternoon. Shoppers also enjoyed free services like massage and haircut for every purchase courtesy of the Comprehensive Livelihood Entrepreneurial
Program of Tacloban City Mayor Cristina G. Romualdez. Meanwhile, a Consumer Engagement Seminar was conducted on November 16-17, 2017 from 10:00 o‟clock to 11:30 in the morning to heighten public awareness of consumer rights and responsibilities. Moreover, it also educated consumers on product standards, how to file consumer complaints and how to access the DTI‟s E-Presyo apps in mobile phones. (ajc/cba/DTI Leyte/ PIA8)
DOH-8 conducts HIV-AIDS advocacy, awareness campaign By: Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar, Nov. 21 (PIA) – In its effort to prevent the spread of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome( HIV-AIDS) infection in the province, the Department of Healththrough the Northern Samar STI/HIV-AIDS Core Team conducted an information and awareness campaign at Casa Miguel , Catarman, Northern Samar on November 9, this year.
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SPH HIV-AIDS Medical Coordinator Dr. Joseph Cary O. Tomada said the activity aims to enhance the knowledge and help individual understand the STI-HIV-AIDS mode of transmission and prevention and realize its danger to the society. Dr. Tomada explained that the most common mode of transmission is through human body fluids by sexual intercourse through vaginal, rectal, or penile tissues; direct injection with HIV contaminated drugs, needles, syringes, blood or blood products; and from HIV-infected mother to fetus in utero or
during breast feeding. He stressed that HIV happens when infected semen, blood, or vaginal secretions enter the blood stream of a partner and the high percentage is through male to male sex by 47.49% while male to female sex is only 17.51%. The risk of acquiring the virus is higher for the receptive partners having sex with HIV-positive insertive partners than insertive partners having sex with HIV positive receptive partners, he added. Individuals who are tested positive are advised
to seek early medical treatment as they can approach the HIV-AIDS Core Team with confidentiality, adopt a healthy lifestyle and positive attitude, have a regular blood test to determine the CD4 count, provision of antiretroviral drugs, and treatment of opportunistic infections. Meantime, the participants particularly the media practitioners were asked to help educate others and spread accurate information to prevent others from getting sick, as well as advocating and championing for the needs of People Living with HIV (PLHIV). (ajc/tbc/pia8-northsamar)
One Visayas e-newsletter is published weekly by the Visayas Regional Cluster of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) comprising Region 6, 7 and 8. Its main editorial office is located at PIA Region 6, Iloilo City. One Visayas e-newsletter is part of the online news and information dissemination services of PIA and is powered by www.issuu.com. For inquiries and suggestions, call Tel. Nos. (033) 3378719/3377301 or e-mail piaamo6@yahoo.com.
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Managing Editor Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. Contributors All PIA Information Officers of Regions 6, 7 & 8 Production and Layout Edson J. Bañares Lynnor C. Regalado Regional Offices: PIA 6, 2/F RC Building, Rizal St., Iloilo City, Iloilo 5000, Tel. Nos. (033) 337-8719/3377301/509-0993, Fax No. (033) 337-8719/509-0993, e-mail: r6_pia@yahoo.com/ piaamo6@yahoo.com PIA 7, Room 304, 3/F Machay Bldg., Garardo Avenue, Cebu City, Cebu 6000, Telefax No. (032) 232-4062/232-4126, e-mail: pia7_cebu@yahoo.com.ph/r7_pia@yahoo.com PIA 8, Children‟s Park Compound, Sen. Enage St., Tacloban City, Leyte 6500, Tel. No. (053) 325-5124, Telefax No. (053) 321-2029, e-mail: pia_ev@yahoo.com/r8_pia@yahoo.com