Today’s issue...
Friday, Feb. 17, 2012
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Vol. 1 No. 187
Aquino urges Filipinos to be vigilant against unscrupulous individuals abusing the environment ‘PRC on wheels’ goes to Surigao City Fryan E. Abkilan, Caraga Region
NEDA-Caraga grateful for 37% budget increase of the region Robert E. Roperos, Caraga Region
CSC to confer 2012 Outstanding Officials and Employees Elaine O. Ratunil, Northern Mindanao
Dipolog water district urged to draw up plans to secure water source Northern Mindanao
‘Happiest Pinoy’ search rolls out in Davao Mai Gevera Macapagat, Southern Mindanao
P41-M amphibious excavator to ease flooding problem in Cotabato City Pops Gumana-Fruylan , Central Mindanao
Tatlong barangay sa Kabacan inatake ng black bug Central Mindanao
OPAPP chief asks for public support to peace process
page 4
Cover Story
Lake Lanao - A Nature’s Gift to Mindanao
Franklin P. Gumapon, Western Mindanao
LTO manual aims for more responsible drivers
Apipa Bagumbaran
Northern Mindanao
Michael Vincent D. Cajulao, Western Mindanao
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PIA REGIONAL OFFICES Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula) P. Urro Street, San Francisco District Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016 Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038 Cellphone no. 0908-8843404 E-mail: ro9_pia@yahoo.com mimibern17@yahoo.com Blogspot: www.piazampen.blogspot.com Facebook: PIA WesMin Info Bliz
EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor ……......... EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI Managing Editor …….........
Northern Mindanao Graces’ Building, Antonio Luna Street Cagayan de Oro City 9000 Telefax No. (08822) 72-66-83 Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594 Cellphone no. 0928-5204305 0917-3084969 E-mail: pia10_pd@yahoo.com r10_pia@yahoo.com Blogspot: www.pia-10.blogspot.com
ABNER M. CAGA
Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Caraga Region Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X
Associate Editors ……....... NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)
OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII
Regional Desk Editors …...
2/F 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
Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Elaine O. Ratunil, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region
Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN)
Copy Editors ……………….. Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region Nora C. Lanuza Molde, PIA Caraga Region Layout Artists ……………... Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Zener R. Dumaguing, PIA Region X Senior Layout Artists …..... Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region Editorial Advisers :
Provincial Capitol Compound 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)
ATTY. JOSE A. FABIA Director-General Philippine Information Agency
SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMA Presidential Communications Operations Office
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Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg., J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239 Telefax no. (085) 341-2370 Cellphone no. 0917-7188834 Email: piacaraga@gmail.com , pia_caraga@yahoo. com,ph Blogspot: www.piacaraga.blogspot.com Facebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur
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Cover Story Lake Lanao - A Nature’s Gift to Mindanao by Apipa Bagumbaran
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he first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of Lanao del Sur is the majestic beauty of Lake Lanao, a beauty beyond compare.
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Situated right at the heart of Mindanao, Lake Lanao is the second largest freshwater lake in the country with a surface area of 349.4 square kilometer and a mean depth of 60.30 meters, with the deepest part at 112 meters. It is fed by four major rivers with only one outlet, the Agus River, which flows northward to Iligan Bay via the legendary Maria Cristina Falls and the Linamon Falls. A treasure trove of biodiversity being home to a rich variety of flora and fauna including many endemic species of fishes and invertebrates, Lake Lanao is also considered as one of the 17 ancient lakes in the world. Furthermore, two amazing islets which could be wonders of nature can also be found at the deepest part of the lake. “These islets are standing equivalent to 30-storey building standing straight and how they remained there standing after the earthquake in 1955 that sunk some parts of Tugaya town was amazing, if not a miracle, expressed Engr. Pipalawan Naga of the Save Lake Lanao Movement (SALLAM). The Center of Maranao’s Life and Source of Mindanao’s Electricity
the Maranao people, which literally means “people of the lake.” It serves as a major source of their food and livelihood, as well as, a venue for religious and cultural activities of communities around its shoreline. Also, mosques are built along its coasts so that washing or purification is readily accessible to those who will be performing prayers. Lake Lanao is also the source of hydro-electric power in the entire Mindanao serving as a natural reservoir for the National Power Corporation (NPC) hydro power plants generating roughly 50 percent of Mindanao’s electricity needs, Naga said. Lake Lanao in Danger? Information gathered by the Philippine Clearing House Mechanism (CHM) for Biodiversity showed that the endemic species in the lake are in danger of extinction due to the long-term effects of the hydroelectric plants on lake levels and introduction of invasive alien species.
Aside from its magnificent features, Lake Lanao also plays a vital role in the Maranao society. According to Naga, the lake is central to the history, culture, religion and livelihood of Friday, February 17, 2012
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The CHM disclosed in its website that a study conducted by the Mindanao State University (MSU) in 2006 discovered massive algal contamination due mainly to soil erosion from indiscriminate logging in the watershed and extensive land use and farming in the surrounding areas. Accordingly, environmental impacts of dams, hydrological alterations, diminishing water flow and pollution are among the other factors that contribute to the deterioration of the lake which, in the long run, may affect the food security and livelihood of communities who are dependent on the lake.
conduct o f watershed studies and the preparation of policy recommendations. But, the perennial leadership changes in the council made it difficult to implement its mandate, he added. On the other hand, the enactment of the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act effectively puts Lake Lanao as an initial component of the NIPAS under the management of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Saving Lake Lanao Other initiatives included the signing Various interventions were undertaken of memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the provincial to protect and preserve the lake. Naga said Presidential Proclamation 871 was issued in February of 1992 creating the Lake Lanao Watershed Reservation for purposes of protecting, maintaining and improving its forest cover and water yield for hydropower, irrigation and domestic use. One month after, Presidential Memorandum Order 421 was also issued that created the Lake Lanao Watershed Protection and Development Council (LLWPDC). Naga said the Council is primarily responsible for the formulation of the implementation plan for the protection and management of the Lake Lanao watershed, the procurement and installation of hydraulic monitoring devices, the establishment of a watershed data bank, the Friday, February 17, 2012
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government, the DENR in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), and the Philippine Environmental Governance Project (EcoGov). According to Naga, the MOA involved technical assistance on the improvement of the Lake Lanao Watershed management through improved governance consistent with the principles and practices of transparency, accountability, participatory decision-making, and rule of law. He said the technical assistance included a pilot project on forest landuse planning in one of the sub-watershed communities. However, the project was not completed due to the departure of EcoGov but the provincial government is now in the process of completing the project, he further said. Provincial Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr. said the commitment to environmental issues is among his seven-point agenda to fast-track development in the province. Action undertaken by administration included the conduct of an Integrated Lake Basin Management (ILBM) SeminarWorkshop aimed at achieving sustainable management of the lake and its basins. Adiong said the Asian Development Bank also designed a project for Integrated Natural Resources and Environmental Management (INREM) that included the Lake Lanao Watershed. It aims to reverse the trend of forest degradation and proper administration and management of natural resources. But the project has been delayed indefinitely after the 2010 elections due to the changes in the national leadership.
Everybody is responsible Meanwhile, various government agencies and non-government organizations involved in environmental protection have been continuously conducting advocacy drive to protect Lake Lanao. Various agroforestry projects were also undertaken to rehabilitate the lake’s watershed. Lake Lanao has been proven vital to the environment, economy, and way of life not only of the dwellers of the lake but also the entire Mindanao people. Thus, sustained interventions and continuous support of the stakeholders are needed to rehabilitate the majestic lake.
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ACROSS THE NATION
Aquino says government has achieved significant progress in meeting Millennium Development Goals
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III said on Thursday the country has achieved significant progress towards meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) on reducing child and maternal mortality, reversing the incidence of illness and providing majority of the Filipinos access to health services. The President made the statement when asked to assess where the country now stands as far as the MDGs are concerned during the kick-off event for the
series of activities in line with the 26th anniversary celebration of the Edsa People Power Revolution, entitled Edsa
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Noon, Atin Ngayon: Tagumpay ng Bayan / Pulong Bayan ng Pangulo at the Mother Consuelo Barcelo Theatre in La Consolacion College, Manila on Thursday,
“Marami-rami na ....‘yung isang goal ay ‘yung reduction sa infant mortality at saka maternal mortality,” the President said. The Chief Executive said the government continues to accelerate the efforts to provide health access to the public. “Last year po naka-deploy tayo ng hindi bababa sa 20,000 nurses na pupunta po sa mga barangay na liblib na hindi pa naaabot ng ating current medical practitioners,” he said. “Ang inabutan ko kasi ‘nung tayo ay nag-umpisa sa trabaho ay tinatayang 40 percent of 95 million Filipinos never get to see a health professional. So ‘yung first step diyan, marami tayong nurse na walang mapasukan, kailangan ng experience,”
President Aquino said. In this connection, the President said the government increased the funds of the Department of Health (DoH) to carry out the initiative of deploying more nurses and medical practitioners to far-flung rural provinces. “Dinamihan ‘yung services rin ng PhilHealth, that’s another, in an attempt to reach the Millennium Development Goals,” he said. “Yung educational component ‘nung Reproductive Health or RH Bill ay isa rin sa sinusulong natin para nga madagdagan ng kaalaman ang lahat ng mga couples para mas mai-plano nila ‘yung kanilang pamilya,” President Aquino noted. (JS)
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Aquino urges Filipinos to be vigilant against unscrupulous individuals abusing the environment
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III encouraged the Filipino people to be vigilant against unscrupulous individuals or groups who are carelessly abusing the environment as he noted the alarming state of air pollution in the country.
“Ang inabutan po natin tinatayang 166 micrograms of particulates per cubic meter of air, yun po yung measure ng pollution… ang United Nations standard po for reasonable quality of air is 90 so yung 166 is almost double of the 90, so yun pong double na iyan ang nilalanghap natin araw-araw na dinatnan natin,” the President said during the Question and Answer portion of the kick-
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off event for the series of activities in line with the 26th anniversary celebration of Edsa People Power Revolution, entitled “Edsa Noon, Atin Ngayon: Tagumpay ng Bayan” Pulong Bayan ng Pangulo at the Mother Consuelo Barcelo Theatre of the La Consolacion College in Manila on Thursday morning. President Aquino bared some of the government-initiated
programs to address the problem that include the efforts of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) led by Assistant Secretary Virginia Torres in studying the competency of existing smoke emission testing centers in the country. “Ngayon po tinatayang nasa mga between 112 to 120… malaki-laki na po ang ginaganda nung atin pong klima. Paano po ginawa iyan, isa po sa ginawa ng ating pamahalaan yun LTO po sa pangunguna ni Virgie Torres, siniyasat po nila ang smoke emission testing centers tapos pinagtiyagaan po nila na sukatin yung kakayahan ng isang emission testing center na totohanang mag-test sa isang araw. Lumabas po kada makina 80 sasakyan ang pwedeng i-test sa isang araw,” “the President said. “Tiningnan po nila ang kanilang mga records lumabas dun na may mga smokeemission testing center na nagsasabing 600 or more ang kanilang sinisiyasat bawat araw, 80 lang ang kaya ng makina di yung 520 fake… so naghigpit po sila at isinara ang mga tiwali,” he added. The Chief Executive also urged the Filipinos, including the youth sector, to take note of any incidental environmental abuse particularly
the vehicular smoke belching. “Anong magagawa ninyo… nadaanan mo yung bumubuga (ng maitim na usok) na bus, jeep o anumang sasakyan maski pribado… kunan mo ng litrato or ilista mo yung plate number at kailan nangyari ito… mapapahanap natin iyan at pag di pumasa (smoke emission test) hindi siya pwedeng tumakbo sa kalsada,” he said. “Isama ko na yung solid waste, kapag may nakita tayong nagtapon sa mga ilog natin, estero… nakikita mo araw-araw ginagawa, paki-report mo sa kinauukulang barangay or any other local government authority para magawan ng karampatang aksyon... ang buod po nito, kung may nakikita tayong tiwali at wala tayong gagawin ay wala pong mangyayari… kailangan makialam tayo,” the President said. Also present during the event were Vice President Jejomar Binay, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Transportation and Communications Secretary Manuel Roxas, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda, Metro Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director General Joel Villanueva and Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr., among others. The “Pulong Bayan ng Pangulo” is part of the preliminary events for the Edsa People Power 26th anniversary celebration, which is anchored on this year’s theme “Anong Taya Mo Para sa Pilipinas Natin?” calling all Filipinos to participate in nation-building. (JCL)
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AgNor PDRRMC assures availability of needed equipment during calamities by Jennifer P. Gaitano
P
rovincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of the province of Agusan del Norte assured the public that equipment needed during calamities are up and available.
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piacaraga@gmail.com pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph
During the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting held recently here, Gov. Erlpe John Amante solicited suggestions from the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, and local chief executives of the different municipalities in the province in identifying other necessary equipment to be used during calamities so that PDRRMC can effectively respond to the public. The council identified the need for more portable toilets
in the designated evacuation centers in every municipality to ensure good health of the Agusanons especially the children. PDRRMC will also provide more rubber boats. Also, Gov. Amante reiterated that municipal mayors should establish their own MDRRM Plan where flow of its disasterresponse operations are identified. “A clear early warning system must also be indicated in the plan/flow of operations, so everybody will
be informed and be cautious,� said Amante. The chief executive of the province also emphasized the need to intensify advocacy campaigns in every municipality so that the public will know what to do and where to go in times of calamities. With this, PDRRMC hopes to reduce the risks of losing lives and properties of the Agusanons when calamity strikes the province. Amante also urged the public of its full cooperation.
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‘PRC on wheels’ goes to Surigao City by Fryan E. Abkilan
SURIGAO DEL NORTE -- The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) will have its extension delivery program services “PRC on wheels” on Surigao City on February 16-17, 2012. City Public Information Officer (PIO) Annette Villaces said PRC will be accepting renewal of professional identification cards of various professions, processing of applicants for examination, request for certification and authentication, among others in Surigao City, “which has been identified by the agency as one of the strategic location in Region XIII to avail the PRC on Wheels.” Villaces said the agency has already coordinated with the Office of the City Mayor to carry out their extension services between 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Feb 16 and 9:00 am to 12:00 noon on Feb. 17 at Brgy. Washington 14
Gymnasium. Villaces said PRC will be accepting applications for the March 2012 for Criminologists and Midwives and September 2012 for LET. First time examinees must bring the following requirements: birth certificate from National Statistics Office; marriage contract from NSO for married female applicants only; and latest three copies of identical passport size colored pictures with complete name tag, white background and in proper attire (with sleeves). For the school documents, the applicants must prepare original and
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authenticated photocopies of Transcript of Records bearing remarks such as “For Board Examination Purposes Only,” “Graduated or Conferred,” date of graduation and Special Order (SO) number if applicable. The other requirements are: certificate of exemption from S.O. (for applicants from accredited schools); separate copy of CHED SO with signature of approving authority; and diploma. For repeaters, the applicants must bring photocopies of any of the following documents used in the previous examination if available: application stub, report of ratings, or official receipt.
NEDA-Caraga grateful for 37% budget increase of the region by Robert E. Roperos
BUTUAN CITY -- With the 37 percent budget increase of the region for 2012 as compared last year, officials and personnel of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)Caraga are grateful to the national government for this development. According to Ian Miculob, NEDA-Caraga Economic Development Specialist in a radio interview recently, the increase of budget approved by the national government for Caraga Region indicates that the present administration is determined to achieve poverty alleviation since the region is considered the poorest in the country. “Mapasalamaton kita sa atong nasudnong panggamhanan tungod sa paghatag og prayoridad sa atong rehiyon aron sa pagpalambo niini, tungod kay ang atong rehiyon mao man ang pinaka-pobre nga rehiyon sa atong nasud,”
Miculob said. (We are thankful to the national government for giving our region priority development because our region is the poorest in the country). It may be recalled that when the regional budget consultation was conducted here during the second quarter last year, Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad vowed to increase the region’s budget so that plans and projects for the development of the region will be implemented. During the consultation, Abad also said if development projects will be implemented, this
also means development of livelihood opportunities for the people that will lead to poverty alleviation. It was also noted that the country’s budget chief pointed out that since Caraga Region is the poorest among the 17 regions, the national government should give priority to the region’s poverty alleviation projects and programs. Meanwhile, NEDACaraga officials are hopeful that the region will achieve development through the poverty alleviation programs that are set to be implemented this year and the years to come.
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Fish in Normin free of contamination – BFAR by Lorry V. Gabule
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he Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Northern Mindanao assured the public that fish, seaweed and other related resources in Macajalar Bay, Iligan Bay and Panguil Bay are free of contamination from corpses seen floating in the areas during the recent flashfloods.
This assurance came after a certification issued by Director Visa Tan-Dimerin of BFAR, region 10. Dimerin said she sent fishery health personnel to check possible 16
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contamination of aquatic resources in Iligan, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Cagayan de Oro and Camiguin due to flashfloods caused by tropical storm Sendong which killed more than a thousand people last December. Results of the study revealed there is no contamination of fish and aquatic resources here. Dimerin, on the other hand, reminded the public to clean and cook properly fish and aquatic resources before consuming them as usually practiced.
DILG confers SGH to six MisOr towns by Elaine O. Ratunil
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) conferred the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) to six towns of Misamis Oriental, February 6. Held at the DILG compound in Northern Mindanao, these local government units (LGUs) were among the first round awardees of SGH for CY 2011 under the 4th to 6th class cities and municipalities category in advancing the principles of accountability and transparency in local governance, namely, Alubijid, Libertad, Naawan, Gitagum, Laguindingan, and Sugbongcogon. Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo said that the SGH is a program that institutionalizes the Department’s commitment to aggressively scale up interventions to elevate the practice of governance that values transparency, a c c o u n t a b i l i t y, participation, and performance. Meanwhile, an LGU that shows institutionalization of participatory governance, valuing of performance information, quality of internal control system, presence of an internal audit office and full
compliance to Anti-Red Tape Act will be up for SGH Gold. Monetary incentive is also expected to increase for the SGH Silver and Gold. SGH is accorded to LGUs to elevate the practice of good governance that values desirable development outcomes into institutionalized status. It is also given to recognize local governments with above benchmark performance in internal housekeeping. Moreover, SGH is a precondition to access a financial incentive known as Performance Challenge Fund (PCF).
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CSC to confer 2012 Outstanding Officials and Employees CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The search is on for the 2012 Outstanding Public Officials and Employees. Nomination is open to all government officials and employees in the career and non-career service for the prestigious Lingkod Bayan, Dangal ng Bayan and Pagasa Awards, said Director Lourdes Clavite-Vidal of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Northern Mindanao. Hence she is enjoining all those qualified to join CSC’s search for the next ‘Lingkod Bayani’ in government service. The Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award is conferred on an individual or group for exceptional or extraordinary contributions resulting from an idea or performance that had nationwide impact on public interest, security and patrimony, be it a suggestion, innovation, invention or superior accomplishments. While the CSC Pagasa Award is conferred on an individual or group for outstanding contribution/s resulting from an idea or performance that directly benefit more than one department of the government. The Outstanding Public Officials and Employees Award or the Dangal ng Bayan, on the other hand, is conferred on an individual for performance or extraordinary act of public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior on the basis of his/her observance of the eight 18
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norms of behavior under Republic Act No. 6713 of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. For inquiries, Atty. Vidal said please call the Honor Awards Secretariat at (02) 931-7993 / 9320381, or visit the Civil Service Regional Office No. 10, Vamenta Boulevard, Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City, or contact telephone number (98822) 710057 or visit the Field Offices in the provinces at Malaybalay City; Mamabjao, Camiguin; Iligan City; Ozamiz City and Oroquieta City or log on to www.csc.gov.ph. (CSC)
City Mayor prefers visual warning on flashfloods by Rudolph Ian Alama
M
ayor Sara Duterte prefers visual warning rather than relying on sophisticated river sensors to detect impending flashfloods on the city’s rivers.
“Let us go visual” said the City Mayor answering the questions on what flood warning system would she prefer during a press conference at the Marco Polo hotel last February 15. “We have designate watchers for them to periodically check the water level and coordinate it with
the chief of police.” Duterte said. She added that sensor technology is still an untested technology adding that manual visual warning are reliable. Among the areas where the manual systems are put in place include rivers in Calinan and Marilog. Last December ICT Davao, a group of IT stakeholders in Davao came up with a proposal to develop the prototype system of sophisticated GPS river sensors whose findings can be sent to SMS and social media sites in real time. However early this year, City Planning and Development Officer Roberto Alabado said that the City Government prefers manual river alarms as he found the cost of securing the modern river sensors as too expensive. Of the four prototype river sensors, three were looted with only one model still functioning. Friday, February 17, 2012
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‘Happiest Pinoy’ search rolls out in Davao by Mai Gevera Macapagat DAVAO CITY – Following an inspiring result of the Search for the Happiest Pinoy first conducted in 2009, this search comes back and targets Davao hopefuls to bag this year’s Happiest Pinoy award.
Initiated by the Cebuana Lhuiller Insurance Solutions, Inc and supported by the Department of Tourism in 2009, this search is back wanting to keep up with the tourism slogan of the DOT which is “it’s more fun in the Philippines ”. “ We have thought of this campaign having in mind that Filipinos have remained steadfast and resilient despite the many challenges we face. From there, we thought of looking for the happiest Pinoy who could best inspire people.” said Cebuana Lhuiller General Manager Jonathan D. Batangan. The search is a recognition of the country’s most optimistic and passionate Filipinos who have in their best way showed resiliency and kept a cheerful attitude despite trials. It is open to any Filipino aged 18 and above who has an optimistic outlook in life, unwavering cheerful disposition, capacity to rise above life’s challenges and ability to give a positive impact on the lives of those around him or her. “ We believe that happiness is a state of mind that one can best share from inside to his surroundings.” added Batangan.
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From last year’s 200 entries that came from different areas in the country, Winston Maxino got the nod if the prestigious judges. A person who suffers ankylosing spondylitis, osteoporosis, asthma and uveitis and feels severe pain most of the time, Maxino fights his illness by sharing joy to children. He performs magic tricks and twists party balloons as this he believed are kids’ source of happiness. Maxino, more than overcoming his own illness, amazed the judges with the kind of cheerful disposition he shows to the family. He has a daughter suffering from Down Syndrome. Instead of feeling bad about his situation and the condition of his 13 year old child, Maxino devotes most of his vacant time doing advocacy work that helps children with Down Syndrome. He then donated his prize money of P200,000 to a foundation that protects and promotes the welfare of children with Down Syndrome. This year, the search widens the scope in looking for the perfect person who could best embody the title “happiest Pinoy”. Nominations are accepted from October 21, 2011 to May 30, 2012. The top 10 finalists will be presented to the media while the winner will be announced during a gala dinner in June at Shangrila Makati. (PIA/ Frances Mae Gevera-Macapagat)
regional gallery
Miss Universe 3rd runner up Shamcey Supsup smiles before Davao press corps during her guesting at the PAL interclub press conference at Marco Polo Davao Feb. 15 (photo by Mai Gevera Macapagat)
Grade 3 pupils of the Holy Child School of Davao serenades the PIA-XI office last Feb. 16. (photo by Mai Gevera Macapagat)
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Kidapawan villages get P5-M aid from DA-12 by Dani Doguiles and Lito Salvo KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Eight barangays in Kidapawan City recently received P5-million worth of livelihood projects from the Department of Agriculture Region12 (DA-12). DA-12’s assistance to Brgys. Amazion, Junction, Linangkob, Singao, Kalaisan, Paco, San Roque, and Macebolig were channeled via the agency’s Mindanao Rural Development
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P r o g ra m - C o m m u n i t y Fund for Agricultural Development (MRDPCFAD). During the 14th foundation anniversary of Kidapawan last week, MRDP-CFAD formally turned over P2.5 M worth of cattle livelihood projects to recipient groups in B a ra n g ay s Amazion, Junction, Linangkob, Singao, and Kalaisan. E a r l i e r, MRDP-CFAD
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handed in P2.5-million worth of projects to farmer associations, rural improvement clubs, and farmers’cooperatives in Brgys Paco, San Roque, and Macebolig. These projects include pre- and post-harvest facilities, traveling rice mill, and swine production assistance. During the turnover ceremonies, DA12 Regional Executive Director Amalia JayagDatukan said these livelihood projects could be of great help to the members of the farmer’s cooperatives and associations. (LMSDA 12/DED-PIA 12)
P41-M amphibious excavator to ease flooding problem in Cotabato City by Pops Gumana-Fruylan GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The city government of Cotabato recently presented to the public the P41-million amphibious excavator, which is expected to clear water tributaries from trash and debris that caused heavy flooding in the city for the past several months.
A report from the city government disclosed that the amphibious excavator has pontoons on each side which makes it float on water. Guiani said that the specifications of the equipment, also saying that this is the first of its kind in the whole country, are very promising especially
in preventing heavy floods in most parts of the city during the rainy season. “Weather forecasters tell us that the La Nina phenomenon is approaching the country, and Mindanao is expected to be hit by a number of typhoons this year. That is why the arrival of this
amphibious excavator is just timely,� the city government of Cotabato quoted the mayor. Last year, the Cotabato Disaster Office revealed that around 90 percent of the city was underwater and thousands of people were displaced by flood due to weeks of continuous rains.
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The heavy flooding was attributed to the water lilies and hyacinths that clogged the Rio Grande de Mindanao and the silts that obstructed the city’s drainage and waterways. To avert the same situation from happening, the
City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (CDRRMC) has recently come up with a comprehensive plan which embraced all conceivable contingencies in times of calamities, be it natural or man-made. “This plan envisions
the development of selfreliance by promoting and encouraging the spirit of self-help and mutual assistance among the local officials and their constituents,” the CDRRMC said. (PGF-PIA SarGen with reports from LGU Cotabato City)
Tatlong barangay sa Kabacan inatake ng black bug KABACAN, North Cotabato --- Inaatake ng rice black bug ang tatlong barangays bayan ng Kabacan, North Cotabato. Batay sa monitoring ng Kabacan Municipal Agriculture Office, apektado ngayon sa rice black bug infestation ang mga barangay ng Osias, Upper Paatan at Kayaga. Maliban sa black bug inaatake rin umano ang mga pananim dito ng fungus. Napag-alaman mula kay Municipal Seed Inspector Dominador Bisnar Jr., ang mga inaatakeng palayan ay nasa seed production area. Tinuturing ang bayan ng Kabacan 24
bilang isa sa pinakamahalagang prodyuser ng palay sa lalawigan ng North Cotabato. Kaugnay rito, nag-
ONE MINDANAO Friday, February 17, 2012
sasagawa na sila ngayon ng ocular inspection upang alamin kung gaanu kadami ang nasabing insekto na umatake sa isang pananim upang mairekomenda na rin nila ang kaukulang hakbang sa pagpuksa sa nasabing insekto. Napag-alaman na aabot sa 25 hanggang 30 porsiyento ang posibleng ibaba sa ani ng mga pananim sakaling atakehin ito ng Rice Black bug kapag di agad maagapan. (Roderick Beñez/DXVL-Radyo ng Bayan/DEDoguiles/PIA)
Local officials, employees plant trees as good stewards By Bernadine Astillero-Gabawan
“Planting a tree can have a tremendous effect in our communities. It can make a great difference in terms of human development, economic, and environmental security.� Want to publish your photo, news and feature release just email http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIAWesMin-Info-Blitz/204864762911310
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Friday, February 17, 2012
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This was the guiding principle of Mayor Leonardo L. Babasa, Jr. as he led LGU officials and employees in a tree planting activity held last February 10, 2012 at the Glupa Gulian Agro-tourism Park, Sitio Balabag, Barangay Kahayagan, this municipality. Some 150 regular, casual and job order employees together with employees of national government agencies in the municipality participated during in the tree planting activity . About 1,200 rubber seedlings were planted in 2.5 hectares of the park. According to Mayor Babasa, there are already 60 hectares planted with rubber seedlings in the park. He is set to schedule another tree planting activity on March, 2012 to complete the LGU’s target which is to have at least 100 hectares fully planted with trees. “We can be stewards and beneficiaries of the environment at the same time. This activity is not only in compliance with Executive Order No. 26 or the National Greening Program, but for us to improve our
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environment and freshen our ecology, ensure clean water supply, reduce soil erosion and provide livelihood in the future,” the environment-friendly mayor said. Meanwhile, LGU-Bayog also participated in another tree-planting activity with the theme “Leave a Legacy, Plant a Tree”, initiated by
the Bravo (Boulder) Company, 53rd IB (Matapat Team), 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, PA last February 11, 2012 along the access road of crossing Dipili to Lantawan, Barangay Pulang Bato, this municipality. There were 600 participants who came from LGU-Bayog, JH Cerilles State College ROTC, Bayog National High School, and barangays
Depore, Dipili, Dimalinao, Pulang Bato and Kahayagan, together with TVI Resource Development, Inc. The group was able to plant 2,500 mahogany budded seedlings. At the rate Bayog is going, the realization of their dream to plant trees in a vast area of 100 hectares is not far-off. (BAG/PIA9/ALT/ Zambo Sur)
OPAPP chief asks for public support to peace process By Franklin P. Gumapon DIPOLOG CITY - Secretary Teresita QuintosDeles of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) has invited all the stakeholders to support the peace process. In yesterday’s press statement issued by OPAPP, Secretary Deles disclosed in meeting with her staff and employees that the GPH-MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) peace table would be reaching the substantive stage and that the three-day peace negotiations which started Monday in Kuala Lumpur would be very crucial, thus needing everybody’s support. Deles also believed that the formal talks between the government and the MILF would yield positive results that will lead “to achieving a political solution to the decades-old armed conflict.” “There are numerous challenges in the different fronts of governance.
Nevertheless, we are hoping that ‘tuwid na daan’ (straight path) will continue to guide us. It is the only way to achieve peace,” the OPAPP chief stressed. Deles added “the President aims not only to sign (the peace agreement) within his term but also to implement and assess signed peace agreements and not pass it to the next administration.” The decades-old armed conflict in Mindanao has already taken toll on the political and economic landscape in the island especially in areas identified as “conflict areas.” (JPA/FPG/PIA-Zamboanga del Norte) Friday, February 17, 2012
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LTO manual aims for more responsible drivers By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Land Transportation Office wants to further educate drivers and soon-to-be drivers in the city and the region as a whole to become more responsible drivers, thus, they will be releasing their Examination Reviewer and Drivers License Manual this month.
LTO 9 Regional Director Atty. Aminola Abaton said the 113 –page comprehensive booklet will give readers important and basic knowledge from acquiring driver’s license, to road safety and courtesy, to traffic rules and regulations, among others. Abaton said this is part of their continuing efforts to educate drivers in the region. “We want to make sure that driver’s license holders are truly 28
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qualified to drive”, Abaton said. Although the manual is for sale, Abaton said the public can get one at a very reasonable price. He added that this will really result in a more qualified and responsible drivers, and in the process lessen road accidents due to traffic violations and overspeeding. Abaton said they will be releasing the manual on the third week of this month. (JPA/MVC/PIA9-ZBST)