Information to Empower Filipinos
Mangrove forest: A wealth of life Page 4
Emmanuel D. Taghoy WESTERN MINDANAO
MONDAY, APRIL 21, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 163
10 7 SOUTHERN MINDANAO
NATIONAL
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DOH, Task Force MERS-CoV asked to intensify efforts in locating untested passengers of Etihad Airways
WESTERN MINDANAO
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PHILFIDA eyes abaca farm expansion in ZamPen Michael Vincent D. Cajulao
NORTHERN MINDANAO
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Ozamiz City Police Station heightens alert during Holy Week Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob CDO, Davao delegates top Camiguin 360 degrees Ultra Marathon Zita M. Abellare
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Mati eyes water system for Dahican Beach RG Alama
CARAGA REGION
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Dinagat IOs undergo workshop on TV news script writing Venus L. Garcia RTWPB Caraga to hold ‘Wage Clinic’ in Tandag City Nida Grace P. Barcena
CENTRAL MINDANAO
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Reaching and Helping Lives: The DPWH 12 Roads and Bridges for Peace Shahana Joy E. Duerme DAR turns over P7.9M infra projects in Sultan Kudarat
Mangrove forest: A wealth of life By Emmanuel D. Taghoy
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or five months now, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)- Zamboanga Sibugay has been out in the field to conduct surveys on mangrove areas to come up with plans and programs for mangrove preservation, rehabilitation and development.
plantation of the “Kahugpongan sa mga Gagmayng Mangingisda sa Concepcion” (Association of Small Fishermen in Concepcion) at Kabasalan town. The plantation covering several hectares was filled with signages that say “MANGROVES REFORESTATION PROJECT implemented by KGMC,” and “assisted by DENR, BFAR.” “This project is in support of the DENR’s forest conservation and protection program,” Oporto said. “It was all worth the effort,” declared Oporto citing the impressive beauty of the Simply amazing Despite the inense heat of the sun, the group mangrove forest, a dwelling place of a variety continued with its “short expedition,” riding of marine species, reptiles and mammals. “You will be amazed by the different on a pump boat towards the old mangrove animals that you can find in the mangroves. Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Dante Oporto bared that under his watch, DENR-Sibugay had already visited the coastal towns of Payao, Kabasalan, Siay, R.T. Lim, Tungawan and Naga. These towns, he said, were found to be home to nine kinds of mangrove species. PENRO Oporto told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) that his team seemed to have discovered a paradise made of lush mangrove forest that is full of life.
There are monkeys, birds and other species that seem to be just flecks from afar. Even the fireflies abound in the mangrove plantation,” Oporto added. He even explained that fireflies can only be seen in areas of healthy surroundings because they cannot survive in polluted communities. Mangrove is said to live life on the edge, with one foot on land and one in the sea because of its adaptability skill to live on areas that could kill instantly ordinary
plants. Each mangrove has an ultrafiltration system to keep much of the salt out and a complex root system that allows it to survive in the intertidal zone which is why they are known as “brilliant adapters.” The green wall In a column published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer by Juan L. Mercado, mangroves are dubbed “The Green Wall” as it serves as a buffer to storm surges. Another article posted at rappler.com by Pia Ranada, it said: “Mangrove forests are the front-liners to storm surges, acting as the buffer to protect coastal communities. They were able to protect some fishermen villages from the worst of a storm.” This is why the DENR, according to Oporto, is required to plant mangroves equivalent to a 1,000 hectares plantation annually. He said this was originally four hectares only, but was later changed after 5
now turning into an eco-park although the residents might not know it,” said PENRO Oporto. The group also embarked on “Lapulapu” and “Talaba” culture. Its long trail of “Talaba” had vied for the Guinness Book of World Records in 2004. It was also in the area that several turtles were accidentally captured, which were also released after inspection by the DENR.
President Aquino had issued a directive to restore the mangroves which are natural A call for greatness protection of coastal areas. PENRO Oporto made it clear that the government through the DENR is adopting Avenue of vast livelihood opportunities certain measures to protect and conserve The mangroves are sources of highly the country’s natural resources specifically valued commercial products and fishery the mangrove forests. resources. Secretary Sonny Coloma of the With its original 36 members, the Presidential Communications and KGMC had started its mangrove plantation Operations Office (PCOO) had once said in 1986. in a media interview that planting mangrove Now, the group has grown to 321 trees “was among the measures that will members and it has now successfully grown be part of the comprehensive program of a plantation of 60-hectare wide which is also environmental protection.” a source of living to most of the residents in Oporto pointed out the efforts by the six the area. municipalities at preserving the mangrove Mangroves can supply forestry forest would serve as model to other coastal products such as firewood, charcoal, timber, areas in the region. honey and fishery products like fish, prawn, “Mangrove deserves our attention not crab, mollusk etc. only because it gives a lot to the community For the KGMC, it is a place of but because it is a part of the community that immeasurable opportunities and pride. should be protected and well taken care of,” Different personalities ranging from Oporto concluded. politicians to local and foreign researchers, DENR personnel and others came to visit the place. With the nice view and calm ambience, the residents of Concepcion have built cottages for visitors to have a perfect view of the mangroves “The plantation in Kabasalan is
Across
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Nation
Manny Pacquiao pays courtesy call on President Aquino
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week after his triumphant bout against American Timothy Bradley, Jr., Filipino boxing icon Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao paid a courtesy call on President Benigno S. Aquino III in Malacanang on Monday.
Wearing a white polo shirt, Pacquiao arrived at the Palace’s Music Room at 2 p.m.. Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said in a statement that the Sarangani Representative and President Aquino “exchanged
pleasantries for about 40 minutes”. He said Congressman Pacquiao promised the President that he will help in the government’s campaign to raise awareness on the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) among Filipino APRIL| PAGE 7
workers based in the Middle East. The boxing champ also agreed to convince OFWs to observe the necessary measures implemented by the Department of Health (DOH) to prevent the spread of the disease. “Congressman Pacquiao discussed with the President his concerns on the construction of farm-to-market roads in Sarangani, which is being delayed because of attacks made by lawless elements, who have gone to the extent of burning road construction equipment,” Coloma added. In response to the lawmaker’s concerns, the President vowed to instruct law enforcement authorities to take action on the matter, he said. Coloma said that on the lighter side, Congressman Pacquiao conveyed to the President his excitement in welcoming the newest member of his family. “His wife, Jinkee, who is also the incumbent Vice-Governor of Sarangani, is due to deliver the couple’s fifth child, a son, anytime this week. According to published reports, they will name him ‘Israel’,” he said. Coloma further said that the President and Congressman Pacquiao exchanged notes on the prevailing cold weather in Los Angeles, California and Las Vegas, Nevada. “The President reminisced about
his family’s winter experience during his father’s medical furlough in Boston, Massachusetts,” he said. During the visit, Pacquiao was accompanied by members of his staff, led by Team Pacquiao’s chief of staff Jayke Joson. Before the President entered the room, Pacquiao gamely had his picture taken with some employees and staff of Malacanang, who congratulated him on his recent fight. On April 12 (April 13 Manila Time), Pacquiao reclaimed the World Boxing Organization’s welterweight belt from Bradley via a unanimous decision at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Pacquiao and Bradley first fought in June 2012 when Bradley won via a controversial split decision vote. Malacanang earlier joined the nation in celebrating Pacquiao’s victory, saying that his fight was a “symbol of recovery” from the disasters that battered the country last year. The boxing champ was also described as a “national treasure” for his achievements in sports. Pacquiao returned to the country last Friday and received a hero’s welcome from the people of Sarangani, his hometown. PND
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DOH, Task Force MERS-CoV asked to intensify efforts in locating untested passengers of Etihad Airways
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resident Benigno S. Aquino III has directed the Department of Health (DOH) and the Inter-Agency Task Force MERS-CoV to intensify efforts in locating and contacting more than 200 passengers of the April 15 Etihad Airways flight EY0424 who have not been tested for the disease.
“As of 8 a.m. today (Monday, April 21), 173 out of 414 passengers or 42 percent have been contacted,” Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said during a press briefing. He noted that of the 173, 100 have tested negative. “We are awaiting the test results of the 73 other passengers,” he added. He said the President has instructed the DOH to ensure that all the passengers undergo a free nose and throat swabbing tests for the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in public hospitals or DOH-accredited medical facilities. He reiterated the government’s call for the more than 200 passengers of Flight EY0424 to coordinate directly with
the DOH through its 24-hour hotlines: 711-1001; 711-1002; 0922-884-1564; 0920-949-8419; and 0915-772-5621. The Bureau of Quarantine’s alert bulletin for Filipinos and foreign nationals traveling to and from countries in the Arabian Peninsula (Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and United Arab Emirates) stands. Coloma said the government effort to locate and contact the passengers is in accordance with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) protocol in dealing with communicable or infectious diseases. “Ang protocol kasi ng WHO hinggil dito dapat ay matunton ang lahat ng mga carrier through active surveillance and they should undergo testing, dahil may 14-day incubation period ito,” Coloma said. PND APRIL| PAGE 9
Holy Week generally peaceful in Northern Mindanao, says PNP
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he observance of the Holy Week in Northern Mindanao was generally peaceful, Police Supt. Michael Pareja, spokesperson of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Region 10, said Monday. He noted the PNP in Northern Mindanao put up 393 police assistance centers in the region during the Lent observance. Pareja said that the centers comprise 176-motorist assistance centers/desks and 217-police assistance centers. He said that the PNP established the centers in cooperation with the Department of Health, Land Transportation Office, Department of Public Works and Highways and the local government units’ Barangay Police. According to Pareja, the establishment of the assistance centers was in line with the orders of the PNP regional Chief Supt. APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
Isagani Genabe, Jr. to ensure the safety of all commuters, motorists, both local and foreign tourist and thousands of people during the observance of the Lenten Season. He said that the PNP established the assistance centers in all places of convergence such as churches, bus terminals, seaports, airports, public markets, malls, and beaches. Aside from the establishment of the assistance centers the PNP also coordinated closely with the military in putting up checkpoints and inspection of vital installations such as power and communication lines in the region, Pareja said.
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Zambo Norte’s LCPC assessed By Alfonso T. Ruda
DIPOLOG CITY - The Regional Inter-Agency Monitoring Team recently converged at the Provincial Office of the Department of Interior and Local Government in Zamboanga del Norte here Monday to conduct an annual assessment on the functionality of Local Council for the Protection of Children in the province.
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The team is composed of the representatives from the Department of Interior and Local Government(DILG); National Economic Development Authority(NEDA); National Nutrition Council(NNC); Dept. of Education(DepEd) in region 9; and Dept. of Social Welfare and Development(DSWD) and Philippine Information Agency(PIA) based in Dipolog City. The Local Council for the Protection of Children in Zamboanga del Norte was reconstituted last year with Governor Roberto Uy as its Chairman and Vice Governor Senen Angeles as Vice-Chairman. The representatives from the provincial offices involved in the implementation of the program
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disclosed various activities for the children were undertaken. These include the Asin Law, supplemental feeding, and other health interventions initiated by the Provincial Government through various concerned agencies in the province. However it was found out that these undertakings were not initiated by the LCPC but were implemented by the various offices in the provincial government as part of its regular annual program. The annual assessment is to validate the existence of LCPC and assess its functionality as well as evaluate if the programs and projects for the children are implemented.
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PHILFIDA eyes abaca farm expansion in ZamPen
By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Assistant Regional Director Deogracias V. Maranga of the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PHILFIDA)-9 bared recently that his office is now pushing for expansion of abaca farms in Zamboanga Peninsula to increase abaca fiber production to meet the market demand. “Our central office has given us a target of 100 hectares for our regional abaca farm expansion program for this year,” Maranga disclosed. But more than the given target, Maranga said PHILFIDA-9 has also targeted a much bigger area for abaca farming. “Aside from the 100 hectares that our central office mandated us to develop this year, we also have targeted 1,000 hectares all over the region for farm expansion under the SME abaca industry champion product development,” Maranga stressed. As part of abaca fiber development, PHILFIDA is now conducting grading and classification to ensure quality abaca fiber produced in the region. “New Tech Pulp Inc., the biggest market and pulp processor in the country, is demanding producers to have good quality of abaca pulp because they want to produce quality papers as one of their by-products,” Maranga pointed out. Part of PHILFIDA’s farm APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
development is also implementing Abaca Disease Management Program as the abaca industry recently took a blow from infestation. “Unfortunately, the industry is also vulnerable to diseases. We recently phased out some abaca farms, specifically that of GARBEMCO based in Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay, to avoid infestation of nearby farms. That explains why we have a reduced production of loose abaca fiber last year,” Maranga explained. Per PHILFIDA-9 record, the regional production of loose fiber last year fell to 529.66 metric tons from the 644.86 metric tons produced in 2012, or 17.86% decrease. However, Maranga is optimistic that with the initiatives put in place, they can bounce back from last year’s loss. He added that with the targets for farm development, the abaca industry in the region is in the right direction. Philippines is the biggest abaca fiber producer worldwide with as much as 80% coming from the country. PAGE | 13
Higaonon Tribe to turn aquatic weeds to revenue resources by Oliver Badel Inodeo
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - In a serene and interior village of Pagalungan, some 45 minutes ride from downtown here, cradles a Higaonon Tribe community of this city.
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The tribal community relies on corn, rice, root crops, bananas, among others for their staple food and from a small lake for tilapia and carp fish supply and a freshwater lobster locally known as ulang. Datu Rosalino Aguio Manlinombay, the tribal leader of the community, disclosed that the small lake is important to their community because it is the breeding place of thousands of tilapia and carp fingerlings he cultured this year. It also becomes the source of tap water for washing and bathing of some households living near the lake. Not only that, the lake in this mining village also grows water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), a free-floating perennial plant with dark green leave blades which varies from circular to elliptical in shape attached to a spongy, inflated petiole. The lake is one of the two bodies of fresh water in this city that grows mats of water hyacinth. The other is in urban area of this city; along the silted river bank of Cagayan de Oro River located in Balacanas, Consolacion village. Threats of water hyacinth The tribal community did not recognize the imminent threat of the water hyacinth that abound in their lake. Unknown to the community, the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR) has considered the aquatic plant as pest and water pollutant as it invades and chokes up waterways causing flood and problems to the locals and the APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
environment. Further, the water hyacinth provides a growing field for mosquitoes and screens off sunlight that is required by aquatic flora and fauna. Recently, a tribe member who is a Pantawid Pamilya beneficiary disclosed that he has a low catch for months now compared to several years before. However, he attributed the low catch from the siltation and shallowing of the lake, and not to the spread of mats of water hyacinth over the lake. Studies show that water hyacinth is a very aggressive invader and can form thick mats. If these mats cover the entire surface of the rivers, they can cause oxygen depletion and fish kills. Besides, water hyacinth has no known direct food value to wildlife and is considered a pest specie. Studies also revealed that with water hyacinth water loss can be as much as 1.8 times that of evaporation from waterways free of these plants; access to sites becomes difficult when weed infestation is present; fish populations decrease as water begins to lose oxygen and sunlight; populations of crocodiles and snakes increase; and in areas where fishermen are barely able to sustain themselves from this industry, this is an economic disaster. Also, when water hyacinth thrives, it will compete with other aquatic plants. This causes an imbalance in the micro?ecosystem resulting in reduced flora and the fauna that depend on it. Localized water quality also deteriorates which may be harmful to people who rely on the waterway for drinking water. PAGE | 15
Making water hyacinth beneficial Recently, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Northern Mindanao through the Sustainable Livelihood Program and Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program in coordination with the City Social Welfare and Development of Cagayan de Oro, Department of Tourism, Villar Foundation, Cagayan de Oro Hotel and Restaurant Association (COHARA), and the barangay council of Pagalungan made an ocular inspection at the lake to identify a processing site for dried petioles of water hyacinth which will be waved into mats, bags, slippers and other products. Nathaniel Palalay II of Villar Foundation made a promise to Datu Rosalino Aguio Manlinombay that they will provide trainings for production and marketing of the finished products of water hyacinth. The foundation will also provide machines for the processing of dried stalks of water hyacinth for production of baskets, bags, mats, among others to the tribal community. The Villar Foundation is committed to the preservation and conservation of the environment and ensuring the sustainability of its environmental programs through the establishment of social enterprises that will lead the path towards economic independence for every Filipino. Datu Aguio Manlinombay said he is happy with the proposed project because women, mostly Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries, will no longer be idle and be engaged illegally in panning for gold in his village. For her part, Project Officer APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
Charlita Ladera of the Department of Tourism (DOT) of Northern Mindanao said that they will help in the promotion of the finish product of the Higaonon Tribe. Nollie Arguelles of COHARA promised to the community that restaurants and hotels in this city will patronize the product of the community and promote these to their clients. The community has 119 Pantawid Pamilya households under Set 5, 6, and 7 respectively. It has an additional 19 households for validation this coming April 24 under Set 7 Batch C. Village chief Rene Oporto, during the ocular inspection, expressed his gratefulness to DSWD Northern Mindanao for implementing Pantawid Pamilya and SLP programs in his barangay. A literature from the International Development Research Center (IDRC) said water hyacinths have been used as raw material for agricultural fertilizers, animal feeds, biogas, paper, board, and even construction materials. The plant can also be used in controlling water pollution because it is capable of quickly absorbing heavy metals in water.
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Ozamiz City Police Station heightens alert during Holy Week by Rutchie Cabahug-Aguhob
OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental - The Ozamiz City Police Station (CPS) has been placed under heightened alert during the long vacation on April 17-20, brought about by the Holy Week, this year. The OCPS, here, has also increased its presence in places of convergence and established police assistant desks in key establishments of the city, during the long weekend. “We have deployed our public safety forces to heighten security in malls, bus terminals, seaport and airport to ensure the security of the shoppers, motorists and commuters,” P/Supt. Michael Cadiogan Bawayan, Jr., Chief of Police of Ozamiz CPS, said. Meanwhile, he said the Ozamiz CPS has collaborated with various
private agencies for the deployment of marshals at bus terminals and bus stops for the security of motorists and commuters. “We have actually joined forces with the members of Task Force Panguil, the 55th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army (55IB, PA) and the security guards of the establishments in the city, for a peaceful and orderly celebration of the Holy Week, Bawayan added.
CDO, Davao delegates top Camiguin 360 degrees Ultra Marathon by Zita M. Abellare
MAMBAJAO, Camiguin - Rodrigo Busalia and Stephanie Pumatong of Cagayan de Oro (CDO) City claimed the top spots in the 64-kilometer round the island solo race of Camiguin 360 degrees Ultra Marathon on April 12-13. APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
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The marathon started 10:00 p.m. of Saturday in front of Mambajao’s Land Transportation Office and culminated Sunday, 10:00 a.m. at the Cabua-an Beach Resort in Mambajao, Camiguin. Busalia logged a time of 6 hours, 7 minutes and 25 seconds to rule the men’s division while Pumatong finished in 7 hours, 9 minutes and 45 seconds to top the women’s race. Still in the solo category, Janito Capulac of Mandaue City finished second to Busalia, as she clocked 6 hours, 51 minutes and 34 seconds while Rumpy Berdos of CDO rounded off the top three male runners by posting a time of 6 hours, 55 minutes and 10 seconds. Gilda Velarde of CDO clocked 7 hours, 33 minutes to wind up second in the female race while Letty Booc of South Cotabato placed third with a time of 7 hours, 39 minutes and 50 seconds. The relay category for 32 km each around the island was ruled by APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
Jonathan Pido and Jericho Rapiz of Davao City. Pido and Rapiz clocked 6:07:25 while Sharon Atentista and Rosalio Bustalino of CDO with time of 7:07:34 and Mambajao Vice-Mayor Roldan Chan and his partner Jemboy Ihong of Camiguin with a time of 7:27:21 finished second and third, respectively in the relay. This is the first time that the province held a marathon 360 degrees of this kind around the island with the theme “Ultra Run, One Island, Lots of Fun,” as a prelude activity to the Panaad 2014 this Holy Week. Ninety four per cent of total 250 enlisted runners came out as finishers. Cash prizes, medals and freebies was awarded to the winners in each category. The running event was organized by Promote CMGN, a sports event organizer group based in the province in strong partnership with the local government units, business organizations and private sector group and relevant national agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry to promote sports as an additional tourism attraction to the island province and plans to make this marathon a yearly event. Panaad is an annual Holy Week activity where people from all walks of life from Camiguin and thousands of pilgrims from other places for a yearly show devotion to spend the Lenten Season by walking the 64 kilometer circumferential road of Camiguin and trekking Mt. Vulcan as an expression of penitence and spiritual enrichment. PAGE | 18
Panabo LGU extends assistance to Katualan fire victims PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTEThe city government here gave relief goods and shelter assistance to the fire victims of Barangay Katualan. Mayor Jose Silvosa, Sr. said that the city released shelter aid worth P 5,000 each to the 46 families, whose houses were ablazed during the fire incident in Purok 5, Brgy. Katualan last April 3. Mayor Silvosa said that the city officials and employees, and civil society groups already extended relief goods to the victims. According to investigations, Arson Investigator Fire Officer 2 Winston Ferrando said that the conflagration was ignited from unattended cooking using firewood in the house of Jimner Aguilar. Reports stated that there were no casualties and injuries; however, the damage was estimated to reach to P 400,000.
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Following the reports that the houses were burned down when the fire truck of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) arrived in the area, Mayor Silvosa said that there was no way that the truck could reach the Katualan in time when houses are still burning, “considering the distance of the barangay from the station and that the houses are made of light materials only.� Reports revealed that the truck arrived in the area an hour after the alarm due to the rough terrain toward the area and since Katualan, the farthest barangay in the city, is 36 kilometers away from the nearest fire station. Mayor Silvosa said that as part of the human development program of the city, Brgy. Katualan will be trained in fire fighting and other disaster management exercise to reduce the risk of any untoward incident. (PIA 11, Michael Uy) PAGE | 19
Mati eyes water system for Dahican Beach
MATI CITY- The City Government of Mati is putting up a water system in Barangay Dahican. Mati City Mayor Carlo Rabat says the project will be a partnership with the Mati City Water District and the Local Government who will putting up a counterpart fund. “They have began drilling, we expect the water system to be in place this year.� the Mayor said. Dahican, a coastal barangay which is home to the famed 8-kilometer beach is not connected to water system. Rabat says some investments particularly in tourism are put on hold because of the lack of water system in the area. The water coming from the water system will be potable drinking water, the Mayor said. The city government is planning to put up comfort rooms in the area to APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
serve a growing number of tourists. Rabat said they have identified an area for where people can set up their tents, they will be putting in facilities such as toilets and bathrooms. Dahican Beach is one of the top tourism attractions in Mati City. With a growing number of visitors coming from Davao and other parts of the region. Apart from the famed whitesand beach and the waves which has made it perfect for skimboarding and surfing the area is known for its rich coral reefs and marine waters which hosts dugongs, dolphins and whale sharks. According to the Mayor, two months ago the City has convened Task Force Dahican to make a study the eco-tourism potentials of the place, the plan is to develop Dahican without destroying the natural environment. (PIA/RG Alama) PAGE | 20
PIA Caraga chief vows support to Dinagat IOs By Susil D. Ragas and Jennifer P. Gaitano
DINAGAT ISLANDS - Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga regional director Abner M. Caga assured full support to all information officers of Dinagat Islands who participated the 3-day Basic News Writing, Script Writing, Photography and Video Production seminar-workshop held recently at San Jose Pension House, Justiniana, San Jose, this province.
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“Whatever material you produce, may it be press release, textblast or video production, let us know and we will help you disseminate. We should also affect change in the community from now on we will be representing you in all your publications and do not hesitate to ask assistance to PIA whenever you needed it, this is my first commitment with the provincial government. So, I hope this working relationship will continue and develop,” Caga said. Caga also lauded the efforts and talents of the information officers of the said province and assured them that the agency will help in cascading their news materials region-wide. He likewise encouraged them to attend the yearly information officers
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summit/congress spearheaded by PIA to broaden their learnings. Caga, further said that it is a challenge to put Dinagat Islands in the hierarchy of developing provinces in Caraga region but achieving that level is very feasible. “You as information officers have a special role in advancing Dinagat. The key is to increase awareness and competitiveness by telling more stories about the province. I’m glad for making us part in your quest for growth,” he added. The 3-day seminar-workshop was attended by information officers from different provincial offices, municipal information officers from seven municipalities of the province.
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Dinagat IOs undergo workshop on TV news script writing By Venus L. Garcia
SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands -- The knowledge and skills on script writing for television (TV) among the provincial and municipal information officers here were enhanced as they underwent the 3-Day SeminarWorkshop on Basic News Writing on Tuesday held at the San Jose Pension House, Justiniana, San Jose, this province.
“Timeliness is therefore key to selection of TV news. Choose new, interesting and true stories. Interesting in the sense that the material is relevant to the viewers,” said Philippine Information Agency Caraga senior writer Jennifer Gaitano. APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
She elaborated the guidelines for script writing – simplicity, accuracy, completeness and must be conversational. “You may follow the two formats, the basic one is where a script has two columns, one describing the pictures to be used and one having the range of information. Your script will PAGE | 23
ensure that you deliver complete and accurate news. Make it simple and concise because the objective is not to mislead the TV audience and that they understand the news the first time it is heard,� said Gaitano. She further discussed the TV news script flow in which the original source of the story is the reporter. The reporter makes major decisions as to which angle to take, which bites to use, which information to leave out or what question to ask. It was learned that the associate editor has an important role to look at the script, usually to eliminate mistakes, change angle, verify
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facts and generally offer guidance to the reporter. The news editor as well is responsible at ensuring compliance to ethical and legal matters. Gaitano added that when the news producer is done with the script, the video editor takes charge of the technical aspects involved by making creative video editing decision. During the course of the lecture, participants also learned other TV news writing format like the sound-on-tape, silent sound-ontape, natural sound-on-tape and voice over, the most common format where a reporter delivers the main content of the news.
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“I encourage you to make a script outline so you will be guided with what to convey to the listeners and viewers, making sure that the most important elements of the news story are captured,” convinced Gaitano. During the workshop, the participants were required to compose their own script and use it in their own video production. In general, the outputs reaped a good impression.
RTWPB Caraga to hold ‘Wage Clinic’ in Tandag City By NIDA GRACE P. BARCENA
SURIGAO DEL SUR-- The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Caraga will be holding a ‘Wage Clinic’ in Tandag City on Tuesday, April 22. According to Romelyn Bactol of the Department of Labor and Employment –Surigao del Sur (DOLESDS) Provincial office, the activity will provide information regarding the updates on wages and labor laws including business outlook and productivity concepts. “The presence of some agency members of the RTWP Board is expected in the activity to respond if there are queries from the participants in relation to wages and labor laws,” Bactol said. The Association of Southeast Asian APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
Nations (ASEAN) 2015, Barangay Micro Bbusiness Enterprise Law, Twotiered Wage System and productivity and the Labor Law Compliance System are also set to be presented by the respective agencies during the activity. Bactol said the activity will be participated by the representatives from the management and employees mostly from the private sector, media and LGU officials and employment committee members from the first district of the province. PAGE | 25
Dominga Mallonga DOST-Caraga Regional Director
for more details visit us DOST National Website: http://www.dost.gov.ph DOST Caraga Website: http://caraga.dost.gov.ph
Tacurong mayor joins World Urban Forum in Colombia By: Danilo E. Doguiles TACURONG CITY, Sultan Kudarat -- Tacurong City Mayor Lina Montilla was among the country’s delegates to the 7th session of the World Urban Forum in Medellin, Columbio early this month.
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Montilla was with Balanga City Mayor and League of Cities of the Philippine national vice chairperson Joet Garcia, Muntinlupa City Mayor Jimmy Fresnedi, Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn Uy, and Candon City Mayor Ericson Singson, and LCP secretariat member Vaughn delos Reyes, according to a report from the city LGU’s Information Office. “This is an overwhelming opportunity for a very young and small city like ours…but surely, this experience will help us increase our opportunities for growth, learning, and partnerships,” Mayor Montilla said as quoted in the report. The 7th Session of the World of the World Urban Forum that took place in Medellin on April 5 – 11 gathered about 10,000 participants from 160 countries to discuss the state of the cities in line with the global advocacy for sustainable and equitable development. Discussions are also geared toward the preparation processes of the Post 2015 Development Agenda of the United Nations as well as review the urban agenda in Habitat III. Habitat III is the third UN conference on housing and urban development, which will take place in 2016. It aims to discuss and APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
chart new strategies in response to challenges of urbanization and the opportunities it offers for the implementation of the sustainable development goals. The host, Municipality of Medellin, according to the conference briefer is “an international example of urban transformation through social urbanism.” “Both physically and institutionally, Medellín has exemplified its prioritization of vulnerable communities with solutions for accessible mobility, inclusive governance and quality education, together with the recovery of public space and green areas throughout the city,” it continues. The forum revolved around the theme, “Urban Equity in Development -- Cities for Life.” The country’s delegates to the forum was sponsored by the Cities Alliance through the Knowledge Management and Exchange System (KMES) project. On April 7, the LCP delegates made a courtesy call to Medellin Mayor Anibal Gaviria Correa, who affirmed the possibility of a joint program with the LCP. (DEDoguilesPIA 12 with report from LGU Tacurong City Information) PAGE | 32
Reaching and Helping Lives: The DPWH 12 Roads and Bridges for Peace By: Shahana Joy E. Duerme KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato—Reaching the remote areas and helping people uplift their lives are two of the important goals of the Department of Public Works and Highways in line with its contribution to the national government’s program for inclusive growth. In line with its mandate to undertake planning, design and construction of infrastructure, DPWH 12 has brought a difference most especially in far-flung areas of North Cotabato. With the construction of the Raradangan Bridge along BarangiranDado provincial road in Alamada town, residents can now cross the river without putting their life at risk. Rodolfo Ramirez, 31 and a tenant, said, prior to the completion of the bridge, they find difficulty crossing the river especially when the water level is high and the current is strong. Like Ramirez, Annie Paraiso, 35 and a housewife is also thankful for the construction of the Raradangan Bridge. “This infrastructure project does not only gives us a safe passageway but also helps us improve economically,” Paraiso noted, adding that with the bridge, agricultural products can easily be delivered at lower cost from their farm to the markets. Raradangan Bridge is the main thoroughfare in reaching the famous Asik-asik spring falls of Alamada. It was completed October last year and was funded with over P19 million. Asik-Asik Falls, on the other hand, has recently become another significant APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
contributor to the increasing economy in the area with increasing number of tourists coming to North Cotabato’s most amazing falls. Influx of visitors to the area, is partly due to the concreting of the Banisilan-AlamadaLibungan road which stretches for more than four kilometers, which has considerably improved the ease of travel and travel time. The P5-million project was made operational last year. Moreover, along its efforts to promote peace, DPWH also rehabilitated Olandang Bridge in Midsayap municipality and implemented road concreting project that improved the condition of road connecting Olandang village to the town proper. Ibrahim Simpal, chairman of Barangay Olandang testified the said road has resulted in several advantages including ease in transporting agricultural goods and ease of access of government forces especially in times of conflict when rescue of affected residents is required. “Now that we have a good road and bridge, authorities can easily respond to the safety needs of the people,” Simpal explained stating that the DPWH’s project is indeed geared towards development and peace. PAGE | 33
“Without development, there is no peace,” he emphasized. Likewise, Kalunsiang Ali, 67 and a farmer, is grateful for the initiative of the government in delivering basic services to the underprivileged areas. Ali said, muddy, dilapidated road that once hindered them to do their jobs has now become a catalyst of peace and economic development. Ali was referring to the road project that the agency carried out to connect Midsayap town to the municipality of Datu Piang, in Maguindanao. Night travel in this conflict-sticken area, he added, has recently become possible. With these feedbacks, DPWH 12 assistant regional director Allan
Borromeo emphasized that with the leadership of regional director Reynaldo Tamayo, more infrastructure projects will be implemented in the whole SOCCSKSARGEN Region. “As of now, DPWH prioritizes the construction of national secondary roads to provide commuters with comfortable and accessible travel especially to tourism sites,” Borromeo said. He also revealed that they will soon be implementing road opening projects that would strengthen road network in the region. In behalf of the DPWH, Borromeo assured that they will continue reaching areas which need their help and that they will push forward in helping the people. (SJDuerme-PIA12)
DAR turns over P7.9M infra projects in Sultan Kudarat KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently turned over P7.9-million worth of postharvest facilities and potable water system to the municipality of President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat. Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Rodolfo Alburo said the water system amounting to P5.86-million and the post-harvest facilities, which include 450 sq. m. solar dryer and 36 sq. m. warehouse, with a total cost of P2.05-million, will improve the agricultural activities and living conditions of the farmers in the countryside. The infrastructure projects are implemented under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project III (ARISP III) funded by the Japan Banking International Cooperation APRIL2014 | www.pia.gov.ph
(JBIC). Alburo said the Sitio Lagon Farmers Multi- Purpose Cooperative (SILAFAMCO) vowed to take care of the projects because its beneficiaries are majority of their members. President Quirino Mayor Azel Mangundadatu, on the other hand, thanked the government for its support to the farmers and assured the DAR that the local government of President Quirino will help keep the projects in its optimum condition. (DAR/DED-PIA 12) PAGE | 34