One Mindanao
PIA REGIONAL OFFICES Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)
P. Urro Street, San Francisco District Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016 Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038 Cellphone no. 0919-9994516 E-mail: ro9_pia@yahoo.com, mimibern17@yahoo.com Blogspot: www.piazampen.blogspot.com Facebook: PIA WesMin Info Bliz Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIAIX
Ground Floor Kanto Motors Bldg., Quimpo Blvd., New Matina Davao City 8000 Telephone no. (082) 297-0991 / 301-8580 Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 / 304-2044 Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950 E-mail: efelbanbuena@yahoo.com
Northern Mindanao Graces’ Building, Antonio Luna Street Cagayan de Oro City 9000 Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594 Telefax no. (08822) 72-66-83 Cellphone no. 0928-5204305, 0917-3084969 E-mail: pia10_pd@yahoo.com, r10_pia@yahoo.com Blogspot: www.pia-10.blogspot.com
EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIAL ADVISERS SEC. SONNY B. COLOMA Presidential Communications Operations Office JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information Agency EXECUTIVE EDITOR EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI MANAGING EDITOR ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern & Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director - PIA Caraga Region
SOCCSKSARGEN Region Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St. Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506 Telephone no. (083) 520-0249 Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100 Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307 E-mail: r12_pia@yahoo.com, pia_xii@yahoo.com Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga) J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 341-5285 Telefax no. (085) 341-2370 Cellphone no. 0917-7188834 Email: piacaraga@gmail.com , pia_caraga@yahoo.com,ph Website: www.piacaraga.com Facebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur, Pia Dinagat Islands Power FM - Caraga Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga REGIONAL DESK EDITORS FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IX ALMA L. TINGCANG, PIA Region IX ELAINE O. RATUNIL, PIA Region X RUDOLPH IAN G. ALAMA, PIA Region XI DANNY E. DOGUILES, PIA Region XII FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region COPY EDITORS FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga Region
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
VENUS L. GARCIA, PIA Caraga Region
NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX
SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST
THELMA B. OLIVER Regional Director, PIA Region X
LAYOUT ARTISTS
OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII
GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region
GIDEON C. CORGUE, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region X ZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region X
Contents NATIONAL
INFOCUS
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PH, Indonesia agree to combat IUUF; fair treatment for Filipino offenders assured
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WESTERN
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Coffee for a Tree: A Unique Coffee Experience! By Laurence D. Pradia
Heed the majority support of Bangsamoro for BBL, Ferrer appeals to Congress
SOUTHERN
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Cover Story
Dragonboat Paddle for Peace in Mindanao held By: Mary Queenstar Balltazar
SSS-Sibugayurged OFWs to save, enroll in Flexi-Fund program By: Emmanuel Taghoy
27 By: RG Alama
CARAGA
NORTHERN
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Caraga LGUs urged to pay withholding tax, mandatory obligations’ payment promptly By: Daisy Jane Apit
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AFP, PNP vow to join Brigada Eskwela in SurSur By:Greg Tataro ,Jr.
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38 MisOr exec assures transparency in loan funding spending DPWH completes P176-M widening of airport access road in MisOr
OUR COVER
Cover Story
Coffee for a Tree: A Unique Coffee Experience! By Laurence D. Pradia
“A coffee for a tree… please!” 4
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F
ilipinos prominently wake up in the morning with a little sweet, hot and aromatic blend of coffee to jumpstart their day. Some take it with their snacks and even as nearly as a round-theclock beverage. But have you ever sipped brewed coffee that lifted not just your taste buds but also the spirit of kindness in yourself? To some, yes, but to many, no, unless you tried the intensified taste and hearty purpose of Hineleban Coffee. Then you could say, “A coffee for a tree… please!”
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Locally known for its humane cause and sweet mission to sustain lives and empower the Indigenous People of Bukidnon by providing sustainable livelihood, Hineleban Coffee soared high from its humble beginnings. With this desire, it has spread its wings in strengthening not only their mission in reforesting the bare mountains of Bukidnon, but also in supporting the coffee industry in the country.
graded the best Arabica in the Philippines and cupped as “Very very specialty coffee” by internationally renowned green bean coffee trader and roaster, Level Ground Canada, with an outstanding cupping score of 8.75/10.
With just the right combination of sweetness and carmelly flavor as perceived by the tongue, Hineleban Coffee’s richness in aroma serves as one Hineleban Coffee: The delightful attribute that attracts intensified taste buyers and convinces them to Hineleban Coffee has now patronize the product. been regarded as the country’s finest brewed coffee being According to HFI Coffee
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Technician and Processing Supervisor, Jojo Lerin, the secret on maintaining quality coffee is not achieved in coffee processing alone. It starts in the proper identification of the variety best for the area, accurate timing, and harvest of only red ripe cherries and masterfully roasting the beans to capture the true flavor of the specialty coffee.
The Foundation predominantly promotes patronage of the product with the initiative of helping reforest the denuded mountains of Mindanao. “Each single bag of coffee bought corresponds to one seedling of forest tree planted for you,” said Forester Renato Baylomo of HFI. This way, the consumer becomes part of the reforestation efforts The Coffee’s Emphatic of the Philippines, one sip at a Purpose time. Sweet and kind, isn’t it? As it suggests, Hineleban Coffee was named after a non- To date, Forester Baylomo stock organization, Hineleban said, HFI is preparing 30,000 Foundation Incorporated (HFI) forest-tree seedlings to and is anchored with the campaign accommodate the demand for to “Sip and Reforest.” Hineleban coffee. MAY 18, 2015
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Highland coffee varietals from Hineleban Foundation seedlings garnering higher yields with the coffee production technology of sustainable agriculture practices imparted by the foundation.
Based on 2014 coffee sales alone, HFI sold as many as 19,200 bags of coffee. Imagine how lush the mountains will be few years from now. You can also be part of reforesting our land by purchasing Hineleban Coffee The family of a 56-year old in all Healthy Options stores, woman from the Higa-onon tribe, nationwide. Elsie Alizan, is one of the partner growers who source out her HFI realized this campaign family sustenance from coffee in partnership with the seven farming. “Hineleban helped us tribes of Bukidnon residing in the tremendously. Aside from the mountain ranges of the province. assistance they gave for coffee The green thumb of these maintenance, they also give cash Indigenous People (IP) partners advances and even bring rice at produce high elevation Bukidnon home whenever we have nothing to eat, and then we pay them back during harvest time,” Elsie meekly said during an interview. Elsie’s and 81 other Indigenous families’ voices shouted commitment out loud to produce quality coffee berries and obliged themselves in upholding the reforestation mission of the foundation. For them, this is a return of favor for Hineleban Coffee’s sincere succor.
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“Livelihood first, then planting trees,” cited HFI Coffee Technician and Processing Supervisor Jojo Lerin who’s the first contact of the IP beneficiaries in the field. Hineleban Coffee hence satisfies the nutritional and psychological need of all coffee lovers as well as the social and environmental need of the people living in the buffer zones of Mindanao mountains. HFI stepped up its sales through advertising in social media and promote its cause. An Aromatic Collaboration The forged collaboration of HFI and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) strengthened Hineleban Coffee’s hearty purpose.
of farm-produced coffee berries yearly from 24 hectares is made easy through the processing facility provided by DTI. Binayao found it helpful enough for the Foundation and its partners in reducing post harvest costs. Moreover, based on the project’s benefit, DTI-Bukidnon Provincial Director, Ermedio J. Abang said that this only sustains the holistic view of the SSF project in empowering Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as essential contributors to the country’s long term economic growth. Altogether, the pooled resources, a collaborative effort of DTI, HFI and the small coffee partner growers — plus the Coffee’s intensified taste and humane cause — heated up the coffee table igniting 82 IPbeneficiaries to work as one, which contributed in reviving and highlighting the Coffee Industry in the province of Bukidnon.
Based on a statement from HFI Farm Manager Neil Konrad Binayao III, the provision of P1.7M worth of coffee processing equipment by the DTI-Bukidnon through the Shared Services Facility (SSF) project will create a big impact in improving their post-harvest and production processes especially in roasting coffee.
Processing almost 11 tons MAY 18, 2015
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PH urges middle-income APEC economies to enhance support for skills upgrades, innovation of SMEs
BORACAY, Aklan -- The Philippines is urging other middle income countries particularly Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies to promote skills upgrades and innovation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enable the poor to share the benefits of economic growth.
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National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Asst. Director-General Rosemarie G. Edillon underscored the importance of this initiative to enable these middle income countries to graduate to highincome status. “Escaping the so-called middle income trap requires governments and the private sector -- both firms and individuals -- to do things differently and to
continuously innovate to keep up with the growing demand associated with globalization,” she said at the sidelines of the APEC seminar on the middle income trap recently held here. The “middle income trap” is a term used to describe the situation of an economy that has escaped poverty but still unable to graduate into high income status due to uncompetitive industries and underdeveloped human capital, among others. Nine APEC economies, including the Philippines, are currently classified by the World Bank as middle-income and have remained as such since 1987, when formal income-based classifications began. Edillon said middle income countries need to upgrade their products and processes in the global value chains MAY 18, 2015
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through focused interventions on SMEs and provisions for regulatory efficiency and greater incentives for skills upgrade.
The seminar discussed the challenges of middle income economies in sustaining economic growth to become high income economies.
The NEDA official said it is imperative for these countries This will serve as an input to “offer a level playing field to to future APEC work on the ensure inclusivity.” area, especially to the Structural Reform Ministerial Meeting slated “Reforms in structural in September. policies and regulations, infrastructure, education, and The Philippines is hosting institutions, should be prioritized, some 31 APEC meetings all over as the main challenge really is to the country this year. (PCOO/PNA ensure that even the poor are (lv) able to participate in the growth process,” she added.
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PH, Indonesia agree to combat IUUF; fair treatment for Filipino offenders assured
QUEZON CITY- The Philippines and Indonesia have initiated fresh talks that could signal the revival of a bilateral fishing agreement that lapsed in 2006, with both countries agreeing to strengthen cooperation in information exchange and enforcement to combat Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF) in their respective territorial waters and fishing grounds, the Department of Agriculture said in a statement. MAY 18, 2015
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Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala met with Susi Pudjiastuti, Indonesia’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF), while he was in Jakarta recently to take part in the World Economic Forum and its adjunct event called Grow Asia Agricultural Forum. Alcala said the Indonesian official agreed to his suggestion to have both parties convene a technical working group that will meet “at the soonest possible time” to flesh out the issues, including the concerns of Filipino-owned fishing companies in Indonesia regarding MMAF’s strict enforcement of its policies and regulations.
and fishing grounds from illegal fishing. The fisheries ministry likewise wants to impose a 100-percent Indonesian manning on foreign-owned fishing vessels with licenses to fish in their waters.
Earlier this year, Pudjiastuti announced she would not issue new licenses to These new policies from foreign fishing companies in a bid Indonesia’s six-month old to protect its territorial waters administration have affected
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a number of Filipino-owned companies operating in the country. Some reports indicated that a number of Filipinoowned but Indonesian-flagged fishing vessels have temporarily suspended operations in Indonesia while waiting for clarification on the new government policies.
Field Operations Emerson Palad; Assistant Secretary for Planning and Project Development Orlan Calayag; and Special Agriculture Representative Ana Abejuela.
He said Indonesia was particularly concerned about the economic and environmental impact of poaching as illegal The DA chief said that while fishers are “not only getting our the Indonesian minister made it fish, but also wildlife” such as clear that these policies are not turtles and corals. likely to change anytime soon, she assured him that Filipino On his part, Alcala informed personnel of confiscated and Pudjiastuti that the Philippine apprehended boats would be government continues to carry “well-taken care of.” out measures that will help deter and eliminate illegal fishing “It was a very constructive, practices, including the recent sincere exchange of ideas about enactment of Republic Act 10654 what should be done about a that revised the old national matter that concerns both our fisheries code. Pudjiastuti lauded countries,” said Alcala who was these efforts. accompanied during the meeting by Philippine Ambassador to Under RA 10654, sanctions Indonesia Maria Lumen Isleta have been raised to as high and other DA officials that as P45 million for commercial included Undersecretary for fishing violators, and $2.4 million MAY 18, 2015
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for poachers. The revised law also requires the installation of a Monitoring, Control and Surveillance system in “all Philippine flagged fishing vessels regardless of fishing area and final destination of catch,” which would make it easier to ensure compliance with fisheries regulations.
of the targeted 700 for this year. On the issue of manpower, the Indonesian minister clarified that they allow two non-Indonesian masters in an Indonesianflagged boat, provided that the contract for foreign crew will be for a maximum of three years, after which fishing companies are “mandated to transfer technology” to their Indonesian employees. She explained that the new regulation is designed to give Indonesians more income and livelihood opportunities.
Through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, DA likewise continues to train new law enforcers to beef up its antiIUUF campaign. To date, 200 law enforcers have been trained out
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Meanwhile, at the sidelines of Grow Asia, Alcala held separate bilateral meetings with Indonesia’s Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, and Vietnam’s Cao Duc Phat, wherein they expressed their shared commitment to expanded and stronger technical cooperation, trade and investments.
In addition, two multinational companies relayed their intention to invest in the Philippines – Swiss Re on crop insurance and DuPont on biotechnology. Alcala said DA is ready to facilitate these possible investments.
“These are votes of confidence about the future of Philippine agriculture,” Alcala said. (DA-OSEC)
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Heed the majority support of Bangsamoro for BBL, Ferrer appeals to Congress MANILA Congress should heed the voice of the majority of the people in the proposed core territory of the Bangsamoro who favor the replacement of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) government by the Bangsamoro. This was the appeal aired to Congress last Friday by government chief negotiator Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer as she attended a forum held at the University of the Philippines where
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Asia Foundation country director Steven Rood and Social Weather Stations chief Mahar Mangahas presented latest poll results related to the Mindanao peace process and the Bangsamoro
Basic Law (BBL) which is pending number of voters still undecided approval of Congress.. on the BBL was found in the province of Sulu and Isabela City “Although the survey in Basilan. Despite this, those indicated that 48 percent of who approve of the BBL in Sulu Filipinos may not favor the BBL, province was bigger at 31 percent it also shows an overwhelming over those who disapprove of majority of the people in the BBL which were measured at the proposed territory of the only 14 percent of voters there. Bangsamoro in Mindanao who The same situation was found in want it,� she said. Isabela City, where 38 percent said they approve of the BBL, Ferrer was referring to the 40 percent undecided, and only SWS report on a separate survey 29 percent disapprove of the conducted in the proposed proposed law. The February SWS Bangsamoro core territory and special survey had a sample size adjoining areas on February of 1,900. 22-March 1 this year, or a month after the Mamasapano tragedy. These findings in the proposed Bangsamoro core The survey showed an territory and adjoining areas overwhelming majority of voters contrasted markedly with the approve of the BBL in the findings in a survey a month later provinces of Maguindanao (83% by SWS nationwide on March approve versus 3% disapprove), 20-23, where results showed Lanao del Sur (90% approve vs that approval rating nationwide 4% disapprove), Basilan (59% for replacing the ARMM with the approve, 12% disapprove) and Bangsamoro reached only 23 Tawi- Tawi (52% approve, 22% percent while disapproval was disapprove), Cotabato City measured at 48 percent, with 28 (76% approve, 6% disapprove), percent undecided. and adjoining areas in Lanao del Norte(83% approve, 6% disapprove) and Cotabato Wide gap in views province (93% approve, 2% Ferrer said the wide gap disapprove). in the opinion of those living in The February SWS survey the proposed Bangsamoro and also indicated that the highest Filipinos outside the region “is MAY 18, 2015
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precisely the root of the problem.”
“The Bangsamoro people’s “The people in the margins opinion needs to be heard more are not your average Filipino. because the BBL primarily They have different needs concerns them,” Ferrer said. and perspectives that are not understood by the majority,” she “We ask our congressmen said. and senators to recognize this very strong support within the “Skewing happens when Bangsamoro core territory for you aggregate local data with the passage of the BBL because Mindanao-wide or country-wide they are the ones who will be results. The national data drowns affected by our legislators’ vote,” out the voices of the minority,” the chief negotiator appealed. she added. This is also the case in the Pulse Asia survey released in March, according to Ferrer. Lanao del Sur, the sole area in the ARMM included in the Pulse Asia survey showed 91 percent approval for the BBL while the total approval rating in the whole country was a low 21 percent.
Peaceful option preferred According to Dr. Steven Rood of The Asia Foundation, it is important to note that historically, even after the “upsurge of violence after the failed MoAAD (Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain), surveys revealed that Filipinos in general still want a peaceful resolution to the Mindanao conflict.” “That is also true after Mamasapano. This is a very important point. Politicians shouldn’t believe otherwise,” Rood stressed when he presented the survey results showing that 45 percent of Filipinos prefer peaceful negotiations with the MILF while only 20 percent believed
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that military operations are the that the survey results could way to go. aid Bangsamoro supporters in planning where communication efforts are needed. Ferrer acknowledged that the SWS findings indicated that the general Filipino public was overwhelmed by the Mamasapano tragedy. “We hope the results of the various investigations and the recommended filing of charges would answer the quest for justice for those who lost their lives in this tragic incident,” Moro Islamic Liberation Front she said. (MILF) chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal said that the “most Ferrer thanked the chairs of important for me is the general the lead committees in Congress public’s support and preference for their tireless work on the for a peaceful resolution over proposed Bangsamoro law. militaristic actions to the conflict (OPAPP) in Mindanao.” Iqbal added
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CHO offers free HIV testing in selected barangays By Gideon C. Corgue
PAGADIAN CITY – The City Health Office (CHO) conducted free human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing in five barangays here during the National HIV Testing Week on May 11-15.
HIV/AIDS coordinator Carleen Jerusalem said the free HIV screening was conducted in barangays Dumagoc, Kawit, Lumbia, Sto. Nino and Santiago. Jerusalem said the CHO also provided social hygiene services in these barangays as part of the DOH’s relentless campaign against HIV and AIDS.
The weeklong activity culminated on Friday with a candle lighting ceremony in support of the 32nd International AIDS Candlelight Memorial at the Taclobo Stage, Plaza Luz here in the city, giving respect and honor to those who died due to AIDS.
are suffering from the disease and to remember the victims. City Health Officer Dr. Noel Ceniza said the CHO had observed the HIV/AIDS candlelight memorial, as Pagadian City has already an HIV/AIDS victim.
“This ceremony is fitting Various advocates led by the DOH and CHO attended the because we have an HIV/AIDS event to give hope to those who victim who died of the dreaded MAY 18, 2015
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disease and we have several adding that there is no cure for cases of HIV positive here,” HIV. Ceniza announced. “There is no cure or vaccine Ceniza said the HIV to prevent HIV. The only way problem in our country could people can prevent infection not be resolved if we would not from the virus is to avoid highintensify our HIV prevention risk behaviors putting them at efforts. “HIV transmission rates risk of infection, such as having will continue to rise if we do not unprotected sex or sharing act decisively,” he stressed. needles,” Jose explained. Ceniza said with the DOH’s launching of the free HIV testing, persons who are suffering from the disease can be easily diagnosed and be treated to prolong their lives. Meanwhile, Clarissa Jose, regional HIV/STD coordinator in her message said one should avoid having a risk behavior
Jose was very happy to see the people in the said barangays actively support the campaign. “I am very happy to see people from these barangays for actively participated in the free HIV testing. In fact, lot of them underwent the testing to know whether they are HIV positive or negative,” Jose concluded.
SSS-Sibugayurged OFWs to save, enroll in Flexi-Fund program By Emmanuel D. Taghoy
IPIL, ZamboangaSibugay – To help Filipino workers abroadprepare for their future,the Social Security System (SSS)has been encouraging Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) hereto commit to regular saving and join the exclusive Flexi-Fund program. “We are inviting Sibugaynons who are working abroad toregister with SSS and take charge of their personal finances through regular savings. We invite them as well to join the exclusive FlexiFund program for OFWs,” Branch Head Rudy M. Lacandalo of SSSSibugay said.
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beneficial for OFWs to enrol to the Flexi-Fund Program while they are still employed abroad. “Once they returned home and their income stops, their savings with SSS can mitigate the loss of income,” he explained.
An OFW member will be able to save and build up funds that Lacandalo said it would be can be used upon retirement to
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supplement the benefits available which was 2.2-percent lower than under the regular SSS program for data in 2012. a minimum of P200 paid in excess As of September 2014, of the maximum contribution. existing OFW members of the Under the regular SSS Flexi-fund program reached program, an OFW member can 39,274 with total equity contribute at least P550 based amounting to P431 million. A on the P5,000 minimum monthly paying OFW member has an salary credit (MSC) for OFWs to average Flexi-fund investment of a maximum of P1,760 per month P10,974. based on the maximum MSC of The SSS estimates FlexiP16,000. SSS savings will redound fund investments to grow at an to their benefits in the form of average guaranteed interest rate payments for contingencies such of 1.3 percent this year, while as sickness, maternity, disability, Flexi-fund accounts with annual retirement and death. incentive benefits (AIB) will have Accordingly, early withdrawal a total yield of 3.9 percent. of funds is also allowed in case of According to Lacandalo, SSSurgent cash needs. Sibugay was not able to receive The Philippine Statistics an application on the Flexi-Fund Authority (PSA) 2013 Survey on program since most of the OFW Overseas Filipinosshowed that members applied in the main only 40.7 percent of 1.9 million offices. But, he said their office OFWs who sent remittances had is open for assistance and will savings from cash remittances, accept applications if there will
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Dragonboat Paddle for Peace in Mindanao held DAVAO CITY- Davao Dragon Boat Association is a non-government organization that aims to promote sports from all folks in Mindanao through Dragon Boat Race.
from the supervision under Davao Dragon Boat Association like Dragon Del Sur, Base Camp Dragon, and Hiraya Minokawa, while visiting teams include Blue Dragon of Butuan, Liseo de Cagayan Dragonoids, The association’s Bakunawa team from Ilicampaign is entitled Buggan, and Agusan del Sur say Mindanao 2: Paddle Dragon Boat Team. for peace which raises The association awareness about how is now in the stage of Mindanao is striving for building and producing Peace and Unity. elite team to compete The Bugsay Mindnot only in Mindanao but anao 2 racers will comthroughout the country. pete in the 200 and Clarise Jane Calolot, 2,000 meter class that Davao Dragon Boat Asfeature three categories sociation President said for Open/Men’s Standard that Paddling or Bugsay Boat of 22 crews, Mixed in vernacular language Standard of 22 crews, is part of Mindanao lifeand the Women’s small style. Boat for 12 crews. Calolot said that There are seven Davao Dragon Boat Asteams coming from difsociation wish to bring ferent parts in Mindanao the sport to other coastcompeting for Dragon lines around Mindanao Boat Race. to highlight Mindanao’s There are 3 from beaches and to strengthDavao Region, 1 from en its advocacy on proButuan, 1 from Cagayan, tecting coastal and ma1 from Iligan, and 1 from rine resources. (PIA-Mary Agusan. Queenstar Cruz Baltazar, Participants are intern)
DepEd-XI Â prepares for K to 12
DAVAO CITY- With the implementation of the K to 12 program this school year 2016-2017, the Department of Education-XI is preparing for the entry of the Senior High School (SHS) program. Atty. Alberto Escobarte DepEd-
XI regional director said that 97% of the schools in the Davao Region are ready for the implementation of the SHS. About 89% of the 73 public high schools in the region will be offering senior high school. DepEd has given probational permits to 40 private schools to operate Senior High School. Dr. Luzviminda Onor said they are making sure that the high school divisions are ready for the imple-
mentation. Senior High School (SHS) covers the last two years of the K to 12 program and includes Grade 11 and 12. In SHS, students will go through a core curriculum and subjects under a track of their choice. In Davao City three stand alone schools had been established in preparation for the senior high school. These schools include Davao City National High School, Sta. Ana National High School and the Daniel R. Aguinaldo High
School. Stand alone schools have a separate facilities from the mother schools with different school principals. Outside Davao Ci the provinces of Compostela Valley, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental and Davao del Norte along with the Island Garden City of Samal, Digos and Mati cities thru the help of their respective Local Government Unit are well prepared for the senior high school. (PIA/RG Alama)
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53 SMED stakeholders participate in Negosyo Center Operation learning session By: Rodrigo R. Matabaran
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte– A total of 53 Small and Medium Enterprise Development (SMED) counselors, members of the academe and a number of technical staff of banks and financing institutions, various national agencies and local government units from northern Mindanao provinces particularly in Region X and Caraga region attended the two-day session on Negosyo Centers operation held on May 13-14, 2015 at Hotel Tavern, this city.
The activity is purposely done to ensure an efficient and effective operation of the Negosyo Centers in their respective areas. The activity also addresses some operational issues and concerns so that micro, small and medium size businesses in the communities will be adequately serve. Depending on the type of operation and scope of service provided, Negosyo Centers are expected to provide business registration and/or facilitation services, implement business development programs and projects including support services for business conceptualization, development, management, financing facilitation, marketing, human resource capability building that will catalyze business start-up and operational sustainability. Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV who is the principal author of Republic Act 10644 otherwise known as the “Go Negosyo Act” is the resource speaker during the two-day session and the guest of honor during the launching of the Surigao del Norte Negosyo Center established under the provincial administration of Governor Sol F. Matugas on
May 15, 2015 at the Provincial Capitol Complex, this city. More Negosyo Centers will be established in the coming months in other locations to serve increasing number of micro and small entrepreneurs in the countryside.
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Caraga LGUs urged to pay withholding tax, mandatory obligations’ payment promptly By: Daisy Jane M. Apit
BUTUAN CITY—The Regional Development Council Development Administration Committee (RDC-DAC) has approved Resolution No. 6, Series of 2015 in their 2nd quarter meeting, Thursday, May 14 held at Samping Avenue, J.C. Aquino Avenue, this city. Subject matter of Resolution (GSIS), Home Development No. 6 was “Endorsing to the RDC Mutual Fund (HDMF) and the request to the Union of Local Philippine Health Insurance Authorities of the Philippines Corporation (PhilHealth).” (ULAP) and the various Leagues The said resolution was of Local Government Units the answer to the committee’s (LGUs) to strongly urge all proposal of “Inclusion of Regular local government units (LGUs) Remittance by the LGUs of the to promptly remit the correct Correct BIR Withholding Taxes Bureau Internal Revenues (BIR) and Other Mandatory Obligations withholding taxes and mandatory as an Additional Criterion obligations to Government in Evaluating Nominees for Service Insurance System conferment of the Seal of Good
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Local Governance (SGLG)” during their first quarter meeting. “Instead of recommending the inclusion of this matter as another criterion in our assessment for the conferment of the seal of local good governance, let’s just make a resolution enjoining the LGUs to remit promptly in accordance to the requirements of the agencies
concerned,” Cabadbaran Mayor Dale B. Corvera, RDC-DAC chairperson said. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion also asserted that there was no need for another criterion because the three criteria of the core assessment for the seal
(good financial housekeeping, disaster preparedness and social protection) were already hard for the LGUs to comply with. “The matter regarding these issues is already covered in the good financial housekeeping. If it would be separated as another criterion then, I think, it would be more challenging for the LGUs,” Famacion added. “We all agree that the present criteria of the conferment of the seal are indeed stringent. So, with this it is but right to affirm the endorsement to call for the LGUs to pay promptly all these obligations to help in the efforts of the concerned agencies. Not only for a requirement but it is a responsibilty and of course, maapektuhan din kasi nito ang benefits ng ating mga employees (the employees’ benefits will also be affected),” said NEDA Caraga regional director and RDC Caraga vice chairperson Mylah Faye Aurora B. Cariño. Before the approval of the resolution, presentations of the status of Caraga’s LGUs payment for withholding taxes and other mandatory obligations preceded. GSIS, PhilHealth and BIR regional offices gave summaries of their previous annual reports. MAY 18, 2015
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The stated reports were also the bases for assessing the LGUs performance for further evaluation for SGLG. Other major resolutions accepted in the conference were the endorsement to the RDC the request of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Peace Process (OPAPP) to the Regional Line Agencies for the Inclusion of Unfunded Peace building Interventions in PAMANA Areas in its FY 2016
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Budget and Subsequent Budgets and the request of the DAC for the submission of the members of the council for their proposed research topics on or before May 22 for this year’s Research Agenda.
AFP, PNP vow to join Brigada Eskwela in SurSur By: Greg Tataro Jr,
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur– Both the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Surigao del Sur have assured to join the Department of Education (DepEd) here for the conduct of Brigada Eskwela. Capt. Regie Go, civil military operations (CMO) officer of the 402nd Infantry Brigade under the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) of the Philippine Army (PA), said the endeavor is in compliance with the directive issued on April 27, 2015 by brigade commander Col. Isidro Purisima.
Earlier, a prior instruction has also been given to the brigade coming from the 4ID under Lt. Gen. Oscar Lactao. Purisima, addressing the commanding officers (COs) of both the 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB) and 75th Infantry MAY 18, 2015
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Battalion (75IB), told his men to coordinate with the DepEd at the provincial level, in this case with Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Marilou Dedumo, citing “Civil Affairs Activity.”
It was learned that Mario Deriquito, DepEd undersecretary for Partnerships and External Linkages, has issued a memorandum to all concerned DepEd regional chiefs dated May 4, 2015 regarding “this year’s Meanwhile, acting PNP National Schools Maintenance Provincial Director P/SSupt. Week more known as Brigada Narciso Verdadero said a Eskwela.” memorandum has also been issued last week reminding all lower units under him to take part in the Brigada Eskwela provincewide set on May 18-23, 2015. The provincial chief cop pointed out that the annual conduct of Brigada Eskwela is aimed at gearing up for the upcoming opening of classes on June 1.
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Construction of Bitan-ag Bridge begins By City Information Office
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-10) will begin this week the construction of Bitan-ag Bridge and approaches at Recto Avenue, near the Mindanao University of Science and Technology (MUST).
As such, sixwheeler trucks are prohibited from passing through the Recto-Osmena highway going to the eastern part of the city, according to the
Task Force Hapsay Dalan (TFHD) and the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) Instead, they can use the coastal road passing through the Puntod-Kauswagan
Bridge. On the other hand, trucks coming from the eastern part of the city can also use the same portion of the coastal road. The re-routing of trucks start at Valenzuela Road, to and from Agora Market, and Osmena Extension going to and from the Recto-Gaabucayan road. However, TFHD chairman Atty. Jose Edgardo Uy clarified
that other vehicles, especially public utility vehicles, are not affected by the bridge project because they can still pass through the said road portion. The project is expected to complete within 215 days, starting from Phase 1 until Phase 2. Uy explained that if traffic jam occurs, private vehicles will be affected by the re-routing.
MisOr exec assures transparency in loan funding spending PROVINCIAL CAPITOL, Misamis Oriental -Misamis Oriental Governor assures open and utmost transparency in the procurement of equipment with the use of the P250 million loan the province signed with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), recently. Some P200 million of the loan will be spent for heavy construction equipment like bulldozers, graders, backhoe, pay loaders and dump trucks which will be used to fast track the various construction projects of the province
particularly barangay roads. Of the total 4,300 kilometers of barangay, municipal and provincial road network, only some 2,700 is concrete prompting local officials to badger the Governor in every opportunity. MAY 18, 2015
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“But there is nothing I can do. More than 70 percent of the equipment left could be best described as junks,” Governor Bambi Emano said. In his desire to service the hinterland barangays, some of the dump trucks which will be procured are 6-wheelers and the rest are 10-wheelers. “I assure you, and I already instructed all parties concerned, that the number 1 most important thing from the procurement to delivery of these pieces of equipment is transparency; number 2 is transparency, and number 3 is transparency,” Gov. Emano emphasized. The remaining P50million 40
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is earmarked for the acquisition of hospital equipment and ambulances in order to stay within the health development plan of the province. The plan calls for the upgrading of Gingoog and Alubijid hospitals into Level III. The remaining hospitals will be upgraded to Level II. The province’s eight hospitals will have an ambulance each. Other basic equipment like X-ray machines, delivery tables, ultrasound machines, ECG machines and beds will be furnished to these hospitals as needed. “Because of MisOrCares, our people are now comfortable in going to our hospitals for their medical needs. This is why we need this loan to equip our hospitals,” the governor said. The loan is payable in seven years with a one year grace period. (PIO MisOr)
DPWH completes P176-M widening of airport access road in MisOr CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Experience ease in travelling to amazing tourism areas of Misamis Oriental in Northern Mindanao with the recent completion of a road widening project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson said DPWH Region 10 has completed the P176 million widening of Opol to Laguindingan Section of Butuan City-Cagayan de Oro City-Iligan City Road (BCIR) which covers the 3.7 kilometer access road leading to Misamis Oriental’s main airport - the Laguindingan International Airport. The project includes the widening of the highway from two lanes to four lanes, with some vital sections widened into six lanes. The widening and reconstruction of three bridges namely: Alubijid, Igpit and Opot Bridges along BCIR were also part of the accomplishment under the Department of Tourism-DPWH Convergence Program.
The road is not only servicing Laguindingan International Airport but also providing better access to neighboring tourism sites like Loguilo Beach in the town of Alibijid and Opol Beach in Opol, Misamis Oriental. “We continue to commit building better national road network, as we recognize its importance in maximizing the potential of our country’s worldclass tourism destinations. This much improved road will benefit both the local residents and tourists, allowing better and safer transport of people, goods and services,” said Secretary Singson. (DPWH10)
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