Ilocandia Chronicle Vol1 Issue 1

L-R. Regional Director Melanio C. Briosos in dark bue t-shirt, Sec Rogelio L. Singson in checkered blue polo shirt, District Engineer Mathias Malenab (2nd DEO) in black jacket, Assistant Secretary Eugenio R. Pipo Jr. in colored checkered polo shirt, District Engineer Nestor Pasion (1st DEO) in striped (horizontal) t-shirt, Assistant District Engineer James P. Ferrer in white t-shirt beside Engr. Passion.

Related Story on page 5.

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ayat ti arinunos pay laeng iti tawen 2015 agkakaribuson dagiti politiko para iti nasyunal ken lokal a lebel…

Adu dagiti agtarigagay iti nangatngato a posisyon, adda met dagiti kabarbaro a nagan ken rupana iti sosyudad. Tumpuar dagiti nadumaduma a gimik iti politika tapno laeng magun-odda iti panggepda nga agserbi iti publiko ngem saan a mapunas ti panagdu-duwa iti dadduma nga umili nga adu latta dagiti “impostor wenno manglimo-limo” puera de los buenos…

Ayan ti adatna, agwaras ti maaw-awagan a kinnaradap, panagbinnato iti rugit ken pammardaya iti dayaw ken nagan, nupay a pudno met iti dadduma gapu iti natibker nga ikutda a pammaneknek, idinto dagiti dadduma ket bin-ig a kinaulbod. Iti laksid ti panangilimed kadagiti bulok iti dadduma ket rummuar ken agalingasaw latta ti bangsit a kalkaluban dagitoy a politiko… Adda met dagiti agngayangay a napudno ken nadalus iti intensyonda a serbian dagiti umili particular kadagiti nakukurapay, idinto iti dadduma ket saanda nga itulok nga ipasublat wenno maiyakar iti sabali ti turay ken umawat iti SOP (puera delos Buenos), dagitoy dagiti maaw-awagan iti TRAPOS wenno Traditional Politicians…

Kabayatanna, iti benneg ti kina-president iti Pilipinas limtuad dagiti nadumaduma a mapapati nga anomalia a nakairamanan in Vice-President Jejomar Binay, dagiti proyekto a mapapati a nagakupanna iti kateng-kateng a kuarta para it bukodna nga interes, ngem agpapan ita saan pay a napaneknekan iti korte.

Iti biang ni Senador Grace Poe, adda maysa a politiko ti nagkuna a no ar-arigen agas-sinuso pay lang ni Poe, adu pay ti rumbeng nga adalenna wenno sursuruenna sakbay a panggepenna ti ag-presidente. Timpuar ti sayangguseng a saan a natural-born citizen iti pagilian ken agkurang ti residensiana idi nagtaray a para senador, ngem naikkan daytoy it gundaway a mangsungbat kadagiti saan a husto nga ibatbatoda kontra kenkuana.

Iti biang ni Senador Merriam Defensor Santiago, natakkuatan kas maibasar ti eksaminasyon babaen iti tay-ak ti medisina, maipagarup nga agsag-sagaba daytoy iti napeggad a sagubanit wenno “kanser iti bara”. Saludsod dagiti kritiko a nu bilang a mapagasatan iti tarigagayna, kabaelan kadi ti pisikal a bagina tapno idauloan ti riyenda iti gobyerno?

Kamauddianna, ni sigud a DILG Secretary Mar Roxas , adda dagiti kritiko a mangibagbaga a saan nga iduron nga agpangato iti puesto, ti panangiyendorso kenkuna ni Presidente Benigno Aquino, Jr. agsipudta nakapsut a kandidato. Adda pay dagiti grupo a mangirakurak a saan a maibagay kenkunana tapno agtugaw iti kangatoan a posisyon agsipudta saan a managpasensiya ket nalaka a maluksaw…

Dagitoy dagiti sumagmamano laeng a “dirty tactics”, “destabilization move” dagiti agbabalubal iti tay-ak ti politika, manipud iti benneg ti nasyunal agingga iti biang ti lokal a posisyon.

● Editorial ... page 2 ● Pochong’s Corner ... page 11 ● DPWH PAVES TOURISM ROAD TO ILOCOS’ FAMOUS BANGUI WINDMILLS, DARNA FALLS, TAMBOBONG BEACH AND MORE ... Page 3. ● Ilocos Norte marks 198th foundation anniversary, eyes grand bicentennial celebration...page 3. ● PNP needs 1,000 new police officers in Region 1 … page 4. ● Poe pushes tourism promotion, airport expansion in Ilocos … page 4. ● Ilocos Sur, saan a maibilang a 'hot spot' – PNP … page 4. ● DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson inspect Ilocos Norte 2nd District Engineering projects … page 5. ● Ilocos Norte honors Ilocano cops, civilian groups in 2nd PNP awards … page 6. ● Language Services Unit Now Operational … page 6. ● 34 Criminals Arrested during the 3-Day Lambat Sibat, One Time, Bigtime Operations in La Union … Page 7. ● Bongbong woos solid north votes … Page 7. ● Ilocos Norte offers more jobs to Ilocanos to mark 198 years … page 7. ● DOH- PHILCAT CERTIFIES RDH-TB DOTS CENTER … page 8. ● LA UNION LAUDS PILIPINAS GO 4 HEALTH CAMPAIGN … page 8. ● In San Fernando City, Comelec taps other 'voices' for voters' education … page 9. ● Pagbubuo ng Abra River rehab commission iminungkahi … page 9. ● Air quality monitoring station up in La Union … page 9. ● Tiendaan ni Gob’ opens, features innovative Ilocos products … page 10. ● Petition for jeepney fare cut fails to draw support … page 11. ● DOLE to employers: Observe proper wage rules on holidays … page 11.

CEO/PUBLISHER: BENJAMIN P. BASA. CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER: DELIA JESUSA A. GUARINO. GENERAL SALES/MARKETING OFFICER: JEZZA MARIE GUARINO. GENERAL MANAGER: BONIFACIO DANCEL FAILANO. EDITOR IN CHIEF: YZIANDREA A. GUARINO. COLUMNIST/ REPORTERS/ ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES/ MARKETERS: SUSAN RIMORIN SAGAP, SONIA ORTIZ, JANICE BAPTISTA, MA. CRISTINA ARQUILLO, KATRINE DIANNE ANDAYA, RINZEL DIANE ASUNCION, MARYJOY C. DUMBRIQUE, ANTONIO PUG-YAO. LAY-OUT ARTIST: ROGELIO J. DUMBRIQUE. LEGAL CONSULTANTS: ATTY. MARCELINO M. QUITORAS, JR., ATTY. MOERA JOY N. GALING-LUNA MAIN OFFICE: SITIO 6, BRGY. 36 ARANIW, LAOAG CITY, ILOCOS NORTE SATELITE OFFICE: #822 PNR COMPOUND BRGY. CATBANGEN, SFC-La Union MOBILE NO: 09481426218 E-MAIL ADD.: ben.basa@yahoo.com

DPWH PAVES TOURISM ROAD TO ILOCOS’ FAMOUS BANGUI WINDMILLS, DARNA FALLS, TAMBOBONG BEACH AND MORE The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has improved in 2015 a total of 16 access roads leading to tourism spots in Region 1 under the DPWH-Department of Tourism (DOT) Convergence Program.

In his report to DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson, DPWH Region 1 Director Melanio C. Briosos said 16 major tourism road projects with total cost of P1.1 billion has been successfully implemented by its regional office and district engineering offices last year.

“Tourists now travel conveniently to see closely and feel the breeze brought by the well-known wind turbines in Bangui town of Ilocos Norte with the completion of P63 million construction and improvement of Bantoc-Suyo-Baruyen access road leading to the Bangui Wind Farm situated along the shoreline of Bangui Bay. We also have paved roads to Darna Falls, Tambobong Beach and more,” said Briosos.

Director Briosos said the other tourism roads that were improved are the following: access road leading to Napidad View Deck and Water Falls in Takulao, Mataltala and Pao, Dumalneg, Ilocos Norte costing P32 million; P43 million AringayTubao Alternate Road leading to Asin Hot Spring and Baguio City Aringay-Tubao and P41 million Naguilian-Bagulin Road leading to Tuddingan Falls and Kedlap Burial Cave, Naguilian-Bagulin in La Union.

In Ilocos Norte, DPWH completed the following contracts: the P32 million LanaoSan Isidro Road leading to Bolo River Dam and Darna Falls Road in Dumalneg; the P48 million

road leading to Maranum Falls and Sky Plaza in Natividad; the P13 million road leading to Laoag-La Paz Sand Dunes in Laoag City; P100 million Jct. Ilocos Norte-Abra Road leading to Tubeg Viewdeck, Imelda Park, Hercules Mine Access to Mt. Sicapno Camp Site in Nueva Era; P197 million MaoiniBaduang-Saud Road leading to Saud Beach and Patapat Viaduct in Pagudpud; and the P100 million Pancian, PagudpudAdams Road leading to different Waterfalls in the municipality of Adams.

DPWH Region 1 has also completed various tourism road projects in Pangasinan namely: improvement of BobonotTambobong road leading to Tambobong Beach in Dasol costing P150 million; Peralta Road to Mabini San Andres Barangay Road Leading to Mt. Balungao Hot and Cold Springs and Balungao Hilltop Adventure in Balungao costing P75 million; construction of Bocboc Bridge to Jct. Pangasinan-Tarlac Road in Aguilar costing P37 million; construction and improvement of Barangays Pandan-Telbang Road leading to Bolo Beach, Alaminos City costing P53 million; improvement of Poblacion-Patar Road leading to Patar Beach and Bolinao Lighthouse in Bolinao costing 86 million; and the construction and improvement of Barangay Road of San Angel Road leading to San Angel Dam Ecotourism Site in the town of Rosales in the amount of P75 million.

Secretary Singson said tourists may expect better roads for Ilocos Region this 2016 with the construction of more access roads leading to tourist attractions.

Ilocos Norte marks 198th foundation anniversary, eyes grand bicentennial celebration

By John Michael Mugas

the province in 2018 will be kickedoff by the marking of the centennial As it gears up for a grand birthday of Apo Ferdinand E. bicentennial anniversary in 2018, Marcos on September 17, 2017 Ilocos Norte continues to showcase what makes it “the best little Heroic tradition continues province” during its 198th Meanwhile, Governor Marcos foundation celebration today, also paid homage to the heroic February 5. tradition of Ilocanos led by Pedro “Nandito pa rin tayo, buo ang Mateo and Saralogo Ambaristo of loob, sama-sama at naka-akbay ang the Basi Revolt in the 19th century, mga Ilocano,” noted Governor noting that this deed continues to Marcos as she pointed out the live on today “with the everyday province’s rich history that spans heroism of of our teachers, public from the pre-colonial era, Spanish servants, scholars and students.” colonization up to the Japanese and Making certain that the heroism American regimes. and excellence of Ilocanos remain, Through the creation of the young Ilocanos were given the bicentennial council in 2012, the chance to act as the Little Ilocos province has been preparing “fitting Norte Officials, which became as activities worthy of significance” one of the most remarkable events for the 200thanniversary celebration of the anniversary. of the province.

Led by the Little Governor Heart Esmundo of Kidz Kollege, she beamed that “Ilocos Norte is filled Bicentennial project In her short speech, Governor with endless potentials, more young Marcos highlighted the continuous spirits who can become our moderndevelopment efforts of the day heroes.” provincial government in the past Highlighting the 198th foundation years. anniversary of Ilocos Norte is the “It’s become clearer that the ‘Open Capitol’ which promotes backbone of our tourism and openness and transparency by development has been heritage and allowing hundreds of Ilocanos culture, and of that, we have much especially the youth to visit the to boast for,” she noted. different offices of the Provincial In line with this, the province’s Capitol. municipalities and cities are eyed to For this year, the offices and reveal their bicentennial projects on hallways were set into the future 2018. with a theme that merged “Dalawang taon na lamang, at innovation and optimism for the talagang naghahabol ang bawat next 200 years of the province. munisipyo, para kada isa sa atin, Other activities included a mini may bicentennial project. job-fair, the Tienda ni Gob. Imee Magbibigay tayo ng pondo at tulong (trade fair for Ilocano sa lahat ng mga mayor, galing sa entrepreneurs) as well as youthOn his visit to Bauang, La Union on February 11, Senator Sangguniang Panlalawigan, para centered events, SiriBiz (trade fair) Bongbong Marcos calls for unity among Ilocanos and hopes that ang bawat bayan ay may and the Sirib Exhibition Debate starting it off with "Solid North" can achieve "Solid Philippines" bicentennial project,” she said. organized by the Ilocos Norte Youth in the near future. (Enrique Naungayan/PIA-1 La Union) The bicentennial celebration of Office.

PNP needs 1,000 new police officers in Region I Joanna D. Sabado SAN FERNANDO CITY, February 13 (PIA) – The Philippine National Police is hiring at least 1,000 police officers in Region 1 this year, the PNP Directorate for Personnel and Records Management (PNP-DPRM) said.

Supt. Marlon Paiste, Police Regional Information Officer, said recruitment will be undertaken in June and November.

“We are waiting for the go signal to accept applications.

(Possibly) applicants can file at their nearest police stations for their convenience,” he added.

Interested applicants can secure downloadable forms and check the recruitment process at the PNP website: www.pnp.gov.ph Qualifications for applicants for Police Officer 1 must be: a

Filipino citizen, with good moral character, physically and mentally fit, 21- 30 years of age, 5’4” in height for male and 5’2” for female, weigh not more than five kilograms from the standard weight corresponding to his/her height, age and sex.

He or she must possess the appropriate eligibility acquired from any of the following examinations: RA 1080 (Bar and Board Examination); NAPOLCOM PNP Entrance Examination; RA 6505 (License Examination for criminology graduate); and PD 907 (granting Civil Service Eligibility to college graduate and civil service professional exam). Lastly, must not have been discharged from military employment or dismissed from civilian position in the government, (MCA/JDS/PIA-1, La Union)

Poe pushes tourism promotion, airport expansion in Ilocos Freddie G. Lazaro BATAC CITY, February 13 (PIA) - Presidential aspirant Grace Poe wants to see more international air traffic to Ilocos Norte as she pushed for the expansion of the Laoag International airport.

In her campaign sortie in Batac City on Thursday, Poe cited the potentials of the tourism industry in the province, where her father, the late Fernando Poe Jr. shot his most popular movie series, “Ang Panday.”

“Batid natin ang potensyal ng turismo dito ay napakalaki dahil nga ang ganda-ganda ng inyong lugar.

Noon pa pinaplano kung papa’no palalawakin ang airport at kung ano pang pwedeng gawin para dito,” she said.

Poe said the expansion of the Laoag Airport would help boost tourism in the province as it will allow more foreign visitors to enter the Philippines through Ilocos Norte.

According to the province’s

tourism office, the only international flights to Laoag are chartered from Kaohsiung in Taiwan.

“Alam din natin ang dami ng trabahong madadagdag kung deretsong may international flights dito at maexpand natin ang airport,” she said.

The senator, who shared her childhood memories, noted the natural beauty of Ilocos Norte and recalled how FPJ would bring home Ilocano delicacies after a location shoot.

“Alam niyo po, tuwing pupunta ako dito sa Laoag, sentimental po para sa akin talaga ito sapagkat ito yung mga panahon na naalala ko noong ako’y bata-bata pa na magkasama kami ng aking ama na nagba-bike diyan sa may Paoay, sa paligid diyan habang nagsho-shooting siya ng ‘Panday,’” she said. (MCA/ FGL, PIA- 1 Ilocos Norte)

Ilocos Sur, saan a maibilang a 'hot spot' – PNP Ben P. Pacris BANTAY, Ilocos Sur, February 12 (PIA) – Imbutaktak ti Philippine National Police (PNP) nga adu pay laeng dagiti nag-“expire” nga armas a saan a nai-“renew” ditoy Ilocos Sur numan pay saan a maibilang a “hot spot” iti daytoy nga umay nga eleksion.

Daytoy ti inwaragawag ni Chief Inspector Greg Guerrero, hepe iti Police Community Relations (PCR) iti PNPProvincial Office, bayat ti naangay a “Kapihan iti Amianan” Media Forum a naipabuya iti Iluko Heritage Channel ken nangegan iti DWRS ken DZNS itay lawasna.

“Saan a hot spot iti Ilocos Sur,” kinuna ni Major Guerrero ngem “adu pay laeng dagiti armas a nag-expired ngem dida met in-renew.”

Kinuna ti opisial ti PNP a naiget ita ti kampania ti Kapolisan kontra kadagiti illegal nga armas wenno dagiti makunkuna a “loose firearms” iti probinsia aglalo ta umasidegen ti national ken local elections a maangay inton Mayo 9, 2016.

Kinuna ti hepe ti PCR a dagiti nag-expire ti lisensiana nga armas ket maibilangen a “loose firearms” isu a nasken a mairehistro koma amin dagitoy a

paltog.

“No saanda pay a nairehistro nasken koma ngarud nga isukoda pay laeng iti kaasitgan a PNP iti lugarda tapno saan a maaramat iti eleksion,” innayonna.

Kinunana a plano ti PNP nga imbes nga iti Camp Crame ti paglisensiaan ti armas mabalinton nga iti PNP Regional Office ti mabalindanton a pag-parenew iti armasda wenno pagparehistroan tapno saanton a marigatan dagiti gun holders.

Kinuna pay ni Guerrero a numan pay saan a maibilang a “Hot Spot” ti Ilocos Sur ta awan dagiti makuna a Private Armed Groups ngem masapul iti naiget a panagpatrolia ken babaen kadagiti nabuangay a checkpoints tapno matiped ti panagraira dagiti illegal nga armas ta umas-asidegen ti eleksion.

Nadakamatna a lima nga ili kas iti Sta. Maria, Sinait, Sta. Catalina, Santiago ken Tagudin dagiti bantayan wenno tutukanto ti PNP tapno mapatalinaed ti linak ken urnos bayat ti kampania ken kaaldawan ti eleksion agsipud iti naiget a political rivalry dagiti agbabalubal iti kina- alkalde.

(MCA/BPP/PIA-1/ Ilocos Sur)

Mr. Ferdinand Buccat from the Provincial Veterinarian Office, Provincial Information Officer Adamor Dagang and Provincial Agriculturist Imelda Sannadan present the highlights of the upcoming activities for the 166th La Union Foundation. A few of which are an Agri Trade Fair highlighting the different products of each municipality, a Bamboo Expo and the Pinakalympics as part of the Livestock Day. (Photos by: Vic Villanueva Jr.)

Type: Commercial Area: 1,937 sqm.

Location: Balaoan, La Union Contact Name: Ben Basa Contact No: 09481426218

DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson inspect Ilocos Norte 2nd District Engineering projects.

The Honorable Secretary Rogelio L. Singson visited Region I on February 4 - 5, 2016 and one of the itineraries was to inspect projects within Ilocos Norte 2nd District Engineering Office on February 5, 2016. Among the projects he inspected were the on-going Construction of the Batac Cultural Center in Batac City and the proposed Clearing and Cleaning of the Sabo Dams in Madongan River, Dingras and Solsona River in Solsona.

The Hon. Secretary Rogelio L. Singson was accompanied by Assistant Secretary Eugeno R. Pipo Jr., Regional Director Melanio C. Briosos, District Engineer Mathias Malenab, Assistant District Engineer James P. Ferrer and other officials of the Second District Engineering Office.

Ilocos Norte honors Ilocano cops, civilian groups in 2nd PNP awards Cherry Joy D. Garma LAOAG CITY, February 15 (PIA) – The Ilocos Norte provincial government has staged the second Philippine National Police (PNP) Awards to honor the most outstanding police officers and civic volunteer groups in the province.

At least 14 outstanding police officers from the Ilocos Norte Provincial Police Office (INPPO) were awarded for their bravery, courage and talent ensuring the public safety and internal security, namely: Chief Inspectors Amador M. Quiocho, Dennis M. Sumalileng, Dexter Diovic T. Corpuz, Jonathan B. Papay, Rodrigo B. Galino, and Randy C. Baoit; Superintendents Albert E. Ocon, Jose C. Calpito III, Supt. Adolfo T. Rafanan, Leland T. Benigno,

Dexter Mariano T. Paredes, Senior Insp. Paul Benedict R. Parado and SPO4 Ramelito F. Piedad.

"This ceremony is heartfelt, and we are truly grateful to each one of you. In behalf of the provincial officers and the public, thank you to all of you,” Governor Imee R. Marcos said.

The awarding, which also recognized outstanding police stations and civic volunteer groups, was held as part of the weeklong celebration of the 198th Foundation Anniversary of Ilocos Norte last week.

Among the notable awardees was SPO1 Aurora Joy Manuela, the only female officer, who was also lauded as one of the Country’s Outstanding Police Officer in Service last year.

The Laoag City Police

Station was recognized as the best performing city police station for their worthy contributions in crime prevention and solution in the province.

Moreover, the Motorist AntiStreet Crime Operatives (MASCO) and Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) Association for Direct Operations (MASCOBADO) of Laoag City, San Nicolas, Bacarra, and Dingras town were also recognized for their extraordinary support and cooperation in assisting the local police force.

Meanwhile, INPPO Director Senior Supt. Jose Melecio Nartates renewed the commitment of the police force in line with the development initiatives of the provincial government.

“The police force and our

close multipliers will double our efforts in achieving more, not only in [maintaining] peace and order, but in the overall development programs the provincial government,” he said.

He said, with the joint efforts of the provincial government and INPPO, Ilocos Norte maintains a high drug and crime solution efficiency in the region.

Marcos remains hopeful that the peace and order situation of Ilocos Norte will remain highly stable with the cooperation of the provincial government and INPPO together with the support of various civilian groups led by MASCOBADO. (MCA/CDG, PIA1-Ilocos Norte with reports from John Michael Mugas, PGIN-CMO)

Language Services Unit Now Operational Amy S. Bilar, PITO-La Union The Language Services Unit (LSU) is now operational to serve the general public.

In 2012, Gov. Manuel C. Ortega approved the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Provincial Ordinance No. 026-2012 or the Local Language Code of the Province of La Union. Part of the Code provides for the creation of the LSU as a unit of the Information Division of the Provincial Information and Tourism Office (PITO) to provide language services to different clients.

LSU aims to be a pioneer in the protection, promotion and development of local language in honor of diversity, linguistic rights, and cultural patrimony. Furthermore, it will serve as a model and mentor for other local government units in the Philippines for protecting, promoting, and developing their respective local languages.

LSU currently serves as the central coordinating arm of all activities concerning the

dissemination, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the said code to the general public. It is also conducting researches on the linguistic make-up and trends of La Union and helps in organizing and facilitating Ilokano and indigenous cultural events. It identifies role models of the revitalization and use of Iloko and other minority languages native to the Philippines and supports the implementation of mother tongued-based education. LSU also serves as an information clearing house for quality mother tongue and multi-lingual services, helps and monitor various sectors and component of Local Government Units in compliance with the provisions of the said code and builds partnerships with external language advocacies.

LSU also serves as the secretariat of the La Union Council for Language and Culture (LUCLAC) chaired by Gov. Manuel C. Ortega.

LU SOON ON GOOGLE STREET VIEW. Team from Google Maps poses with the Provincial Information and Tourism Office (PITO) and Local Government of Bacnotan staff at the Centennial Tree at Brgy. Carcarmay, Bacnotan, La Union on January 26, 2016 with a trekker backpack camera for Google Street View which showcases off-road attractions. Photo courtesy: Joy Ann L. Gurtiza-PITO, LU

NEED TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS? CP. No.: 09481426218 E-mail address: ben.basa@yahoo.com

34 Criminals Arrested during the 3-Day Lambat Sibat, One Time, Bigtime Operations in La Union

Bongbong woos solid north votes

Camp Diego Silang, Carlatan, San Fernando City, La Union – In line with the reinvigorated crime prevention effort of La Union Police Provincial Office headed by PSSUPT ANGELITO D. DUMANGENG, Provincial Director. This Office gained another magnitude of operational accomplishment during the Lambat Sibat “One time Bigtime Operation” last February 11-13, 2016, which is the second for this year. This LAMBAT-SIBAT Concept of Managing Police Operations aims to identify, direct and focus all the necessary requirements and resources of the PNP & other law enforcement agencies to ensure a successful intelligence driven police operations against all forms of lawless elements.

PSSUPT DUMANGENG reported to PCSUPT ERICSON T VELASQUEZ, Acting Regional Director, PRO-1 that, the implementation of “One Time, Big Time” approach of saturating high crimes through of whole of PNP and

Joanne Namnama P. Dilim BAUANG, La Union, February 12 (PIA) - Vice presidential hopeful Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. continued courting the Ilocano vote in his campaign sorties in northern Luzon as he consolidates the so-called "solid north" vote.

Marcos was in La Union on Thursday, Feb. 11 and met with local leaders and residents in the towns of San Juan, Bauang and in San Fernando City.

“Salamat sa mainit na pagsalubong. Totoo nga ang kasabihang, there’s no place like home,” he said.

In his message, he spoke of the need to end political division which hinders the nation’s progress.

“Ibalik natin ang nasyonalismo sa mga Pilipino.

Huwag tayong pumayag na sa pamumulitika tayo’y pinagaaway away. Alam nating wala tayong naabot sa ganyang sistema,” he added.

He also shares his hope for a “solid north” or the solid or

government approach resulted to the arrest and neutralization of law less individuals. There were twenty one (21) Search Warrants implemented (14 for RA 9165 and 7 for RA 10591) which resulted to the arrest of at least 10 individuals. There were three (3) buy bust operation conducted that resulted to the arrest of four (4) individuals for violation of RA 9165.

Four (4) individuals were arrested for different crimes among of which are Usurpation of official Function in Bacnotan, Robbery in San Gabriel, Slight Physical Injuries in Rosario and Rape in Sa Fernando City.

Likewise, Santol PS in coordination with PDEA, RO1 & Philippine Army conducted joint eradication operation of marijuana plantation along Ilocos Sur and La Union boundary in four different locations that yielded to the discovery and eradication of more or less 8, 800 pcs of full grown marijuana plants with a total DDB Value of Php 1, 700,060.00.

Greetings from:

bloc vote in his bid for the vice presidency in May. He said he started campaigning in his home region citing that there is unity among Ilocanos despite living in different places in the country.

He also added that a proof of “solid north” was when he won as a senator in the 2010 elections.

“Ito ang pinagmamalaki natin sa ating mga kababayan na itong solid north ang simula ng bagong kilusan ng pagkakaisang muli ng mga Pilipino,” the young Marcos said.

He and his running mate presidential hopeful Mirriam Defensor-Santiago kicked off their nationwide campaign with a proclamation rally in his hometown in Batac City, Ilocos Norte on February 9. He visited parts of Ilocos Sur and Abra the following day.

He is set to visit Pangasinan on February 12 and 13. (MCA/JNPD/PIA-1 La Union)

Pres. Sapitula: DMMMSU President Dr. Benjamin Sapitula said in an interview that they are very happy that the university is one among the eight state universities who have attained a level 4 accredited academic programs out of the 112 state colleges and universities nationwide. He also mentioned that according to CAACUP President Manuel Corpuz, once a state university has attained level 4 accreditation, their programs are already a world -class standard. For the level 3 standards, DMMMSU is no. 1 in the entire Philippines as it has the most number of accredited programs for said level. (Photo: Ricky Naungayan PIA1)

PC Repair Call 09202431234

DOH- PHILCAT CERTIFIES RDH-TB DOTS CENTER By: Alexander N. Flores, GPC - LU The Rosario District Hospital Tuberculosis- Directly Observed Treatment Short Course Center Service (TBDOTS) has been accredited and certified as Service Facility by the Department of Health- Philippine Coalition Against Tuberculosis (DOHPhil CAT) for having successfully completed the standard requirements of quality TB-DOTS service.

The TB treatment is one of the major programs of the Department of Health to eliminate tuberculosis in the country towards the realization of the Millennium Development Goals for health. This treatment procedure has been established since 2014 and was operated as TB DOTS referral facility

where all sputum of patients is referred to their respective health centers for further treatment.

To date the TB DOTS Center has 189 patients coming from the Municipalities of Rosario, Sto. Tomas and Pugo in the Province of La Union and Municipality of Sison in the Province of Pangasinan. Out of 189 patients, there were 29 sputum positive and bacteriologically confirmed; 14 were clinically diagnosed and two were referred to other hospitals. The rest are in the monitoring treatment.

The TB DOTS Team comprised of medical doctors and nurses are continuously capacitated to promote the importance of early detection of TB cases and treatment of the disease.

The Rosario District Hospital Tuberculosis - Directly Observed Treatment Short courses Centers Service (TB-DOTS) clinic caters to the needs of patients from the Province of La Union and Pangasinan.

Photo by: Alexander Flores, GPC-LU

LA UNION LAUDS PILIPINAS GO 4 HEALTH CAMPAIGN Dunkin Lee H. Gaerlan, PITO- prevent lifestyle diseases and La Union which encourage everyone to commit to a healthy lifestyle The Provincial Government of through physical activity, proper La Union (PGLU) welcomes nutrition, and the prevention or February as the National cessation of smoking and Hearts month through its alcohol consumption. According Monthly First Monday Flag to Dr. Sanchez, The healthy Raising Program. Led by the lifestyle program was launched Provincial Health Office to help prevent and control non(PHO) headed by Dr. Hector communicable diseases (NCDs) T. Beńas, the event was not just in the province but also conducted on February 1, in the whole country. It 2016 at the Provincial Capitol concentrates on four key health Grounds, San Fernando City, habits namely Go Sigla La Union.

(Physical activity); Go Dr. Edwin V. Sanchez, Sustansya (Proper nutrition); Director III from the Department Go Smoke-free; and Go Slow of Health (DOH) Region 1 sa Tagay. served as the Guest of Honor The program was hosted by and Speaker of the occasion. Dr. Eleanor G. Dacanay, Chief He discussed the health and of Hospital of the Naguilian wellness of the people in the District Hopsital (NDH) and province and how to lessen attended by PGLU department illness or death caused by the heads, employees and officials. heart ailments or cardiovascular Gov. Manuel C. Ortega also diseases. One of the highlights assured the support of PGLU in of his discussion that he shared raising awareness on the DOH was the DOH “Pilipinas Go 4 campaign.

Health” campaign in order to

Dr. Edwin V. Sanchez, Director III of the Department of Health (DOH) - Region 1 explains the DOH’s Pilipinas Go 4 Health Campaign. He served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker during the First Monday Flag Raising Ceremony of the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) held on February 1, 2016 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds, San Fernando City, La Union. Photo by: Rizalde A. Buenaventura, PITO-La Union

In San Fernando City, Comelec taps other 'voices' for voters' education Joanne Namnama P. Dilim SAN FERNANDO CITY, February 3 (PIA) - Voters' education has taken a new shape here as the Commission on Elections taps other sectors to be its voice in knocking on voters' conscience.

A pool of trained lecturers known as the information education campaign network for voters' education was created to discuss electoral processess, voters' registration and accountability.

Lawyer Jugeeh Deinla, city election officer said the campaign is pursuant to

Comelec’s mandates.

“What’s new about the network is that a pool of lecturers trained by the Comelec will be at the forefront delivering the lecture,” said Deinla.

The network, composed of representatives from government agencies and private institutions, will conduct a series of forum in select villages and schools here.

The voters education campaign kicked off on January 27 at the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) Mid-La Union campus here where some 300 students joined.

Speakers from the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and DMMSU, both network members, provided briefers on electoral processess during the launch.

Other network members include the Department of Interior and the Local Government, Philippine National Police, Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPRCV), DZNL Aksyon Radyo, Saint Louis College and United Galva Steel Corporation.

Lyzel Faminialagao, a DMMSU student and a first time voter, lauded the campaign saying it is timely and much

needed by the youth which comprises a big chunk of the voting population.

“We were enlightened.

(Voting) means more than just casting votes,” Faminialagao said.

She added the forum provided her an insight to vote someone who has the capacity to govern and the intent for public service.

The network is set for the next round of voters' education on February 6. (MCA/JNPD/PIA -1 La Union)

Pagbubuo ng Abra River rehab commission iminungkahi Ben P. Pacris NARVACAN, Ilocos Sur, February 2 (PIA) Iminungkahi ang pagbubuo ng Abra River Rehab Commission sa gitna ng banta na dulot ng climate change sa mga residenteng malapit sa Abra River.

Ito ang napagkasunduan ng mga kasapi ng technical working group (TWG) ng Save the Abra River project sa naganap na pulong sa Monte Leah Resort sa bayang ito na dinaluhan ng mga kumatawan sa local government unit (LGU), ahensya ng gobyerno, at media para mapag -usapan ang mga istratehiya para sa nagbabagong panahon.

Sinabi ni Grace Solano, senior environmental management services officer ng

Environmental Management Bureau ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources sa Cordillera Administrative Region, napapanahon na para maitatag ang kumisyon na mangangasiwa sa pagsalba sa naturang ilog.

"Tulad ng Laguna Lake Development Authority, kailangan ding mabuo ang Abra River Development Authority para matutukan ang mga programa para sa sapat na rehabilitasyon ng Abra River o tinatawag ding Banaoang River," ayon kay Solano.

Iminungkahi ng mga kasapi ng TWG ang agarang pagpupulong ang mga opisyal ng Abra at Ilocos Sur lalo na sina Gob. Ryan Singson at Gov.

Eustaquio Bersamin kabilang ang mga Kongresista at mga LGU para magtagumpay ang naturang proyekto.

Hiniling pa ng TWG na mabuo ang mga sampling stations para magpatupad ng river quality check para malaman ang epekto ng tubig sa ilog sa mga isda at ang epekto nito sa kalusugan ng mga tao.

Ayon sa grupo dapat ding maitatag ang epektibong flood warning o flood forecasting systems at maihanda ang mga geo-hazard maps at maituro ang mga lugar na peligro sa pagbaha o storm surge.

Kabilang sa iminungkahi ang pagtatayo ng mga small water impounding system, flood protection projects at hydro

projects at bio-diversity conservation maliban pa sa pakikipagtulongan ng mga mmamayan sa National Greening Program.

Ayon pa kay Solano, mahigit na 800 kilometro ng watershed area ng Abra River ang apektado ng erosyon.

Nabuo rin sa naturang pulong ang Abra River Basin Management Council na pinangungunahan ng mga gobernador sa Ilocos Sur, Abra, Benguet at Mt. Province. Kasapi naman ang mga iba’t-ibang sangay ng pamahalaan tulad ng DENR, DILG, NEDA, NIA, DA, DepEd, DPWH,DTI DOST, DSWD at PIA. (MCA/BPP/PIA1/Ilocos Sur)

Air quality monitoring station up in La Union Joanna D. Sabado SAN FERNANDO CITY, February 1 (PIA) – Pollution levels in San Fernando City can now be measured with the establishment of an air quality monitoring station at the Camp Brigadier General Oscar Florendo in barangay Parian here.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources through the Environment Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) in partnership with the Philippine National Police and the San Fernando City government will unveil the facility on on Feb. 11.

Air samples will be gathered and analyzed using the Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS). The devise measures pollutants which are transmitted real-time to the EMB central and regional Offices for evaluation and quality monitoring.

“The DOAS will provide the city a continuous and timely update on air quality for six pollution parameters namely: nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, particulate matter 10 and particulate matter 2.5 that will support us in programs and measures in reducing air pollution,” Ma. Victo-

ria V. Abrera, Director of EMB-I said.

The La Union facility was installed last December 18, 2015. The first DOAS in Region 1 was installed in 2014 in barangay Anonas, Urdaneta City in Pangasinan.

According to the Department of Health, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases directly related to air pollution affect a number of Filipinos. Vehicular emission as one of the major source of air pollutant especially in urban areas was identified.

Particulate matter is any type of solid particles in the air in the form of smoke, dust and

vapors. One source of these particles is the burning of diesel fuel by vehicles.

PM10 are particles small enough to be breathed into the lungs causing respiratory disease and lung damage.

Republic Act 8749 or the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 provides for a comprehensive air pollution control policy, focusing more on pollution prevention. It shall formulate and enforce a system of accountability for short and long term adverse environmental impact of a project or program. (MCA/ JDS/PIA-1, La Union with reports from DENR-EMB)

‘Tiendaan ni Gob’ opens, features innovative Ilocos products

by Jennifer T Pambid Hundreds of people participated in the opening of ‘Tiendaan ni Gob’ on Tuesday, February 2 at the Ilocos Norte Dap-ayan wherein various local products from the different cities and municipalities of the province will be displayed until Friday, February 5.

The annual event, which was launched in 2012, is part of the provincial government’s efforts to push for real economic growth and development by providing support to local entrepreneurs in promoting their products to a wider market.

A variety of native products and souvenir items including the sukang Iloco, bugnay and duhat wine, tupig (rice cake), rice coffee and bawang (garlic) delighted the consumers as well as the local officials who attended the opening ceremony.

Fresh vegetables from Marcos and Dingras as well as home decors from San Nicolas and Sarrat are also displayed.

Batac City’s booth drew interest for introducing ‘hydroponics,’ a modern method of growing plants without using soil.

The technology uses plastic tubing wherein water is channeled to a continuous row of plants. Such technique results to better growth and greater yields.

Governor Imee Marcos said that this

year’s trade fair showcases new and innovative products such as handicrafts from Nueva Era, tamarind juice from Dumalneg and abel(woven) products made

by Magdalena Gamayo, a national treasure from Pinili.

She added that “the design and good packaging (of the products) has become a part of the sales package (and) it’s a good development.”

During the event, Gov. Marcos urged the farmers to expand their production especially the Ilocos garlic.

As support to them, the provincial government began exporting garlic to Manila and is currently partnering with different institutions in order to come up with better quality products and further improve the industry.

“We really need research and development, new products as well, like the black and pickled garlic and other (products made

through the) value-adding process.”

‘Tiendaan ni Gob’ is in line with Ilocos Norte’s celebration of its 198th foundation anniversary organized by the provincial government.

Highlight of the celebration will be the ‘Open Capitol’ on February 5 wherein the Provincial Capitol will be opened to the public in order to promote transparency in governance as well as educate them about the programs and services offered by the provincial government.

DOLE to employers: Petition for jeepney fare Observe proper wage rules cut fails to draw on holidays support Joanne Namnama P. Dilim there is a favorable company Joanna D. Sabado SAN FERNANDO CITY, February 8 (PIA) – A petition to reduce jeepney fare in Region 1 has failed to generate support during a public hearing that the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-1 (LTFRB1) presided last Wednesday.

The Alliance of United Transport OrganizationProvince Wide (AUTO-PRO), a federation of 31 jeepney transport organizations in Pangasinan, filed the petition on behalf of Pangasinan commuters who called for a lower fare due to recent oil price rollbacks.

The petition, however, did not draw support from other transport groups in the Ilocos.

Benny Aquino, auto-pro president, later withdrew the petition.

“The increase in oil prices (this month) may repeat in the next weeks thus defeating the purpose of the fare reduction,” Silvino Bermudez, a board member of the La Union Transport Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LUTRAMCO),

said.

Edwin Collado, president of Tricycle Transport Micro Business of San Fernando City, cited other costs like spare parts, oil, taxes and penalties, that need to be considered in fare adjustment.

Still in effect is the provisional P.50 cut from the P8.50 minimum fare which was approved January 28, 2015. It covers the first four kilometres of travel. For senior citizens and students, minimum fare remains at P7.

Lawyer Veronica Peralta, LTFRB hearing officer, said the board en banc will issue a recommendation based on the proceedings.

“There is already a petition filed in the central office for the institutionalization of the fare mechanism for fare reduction so in the coming adjustments there is already a guideline to expedite the process,” Peralta added.

Effective Jan. 22, a provisional decrease of P.50 on jeepney fare was declared by LTFRB in the National Capital Region, Regions III and IV. (MCA/JDS/PIA-1, La Union)

Ni: BENJAMIN JULYANNE GUARINO BASA JR.

SAN FERNANDO CITY, February 7 (PIA) - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-1) has assured private sector workers that they will get paid properly for rendering work on two special nonworking holidays this February.

The two special nonworking holidays are the Chinese New Year on February 8 and Edsa People Power Revolution on February 25.

The declaration of holidays was included in Proclamation No. 1105 signed by President Benigno S. Aquino III on August 20, 2015 listing all the regular holidays and special non-working days for 2016.

Ursua, DOLE-1 regional director, reminded employers to observe the rules for payment of wages on holidays based on the Labor Advisory No. 01, series of 2016 issued by Labor Chief Rosalinda DimapilisBaldoz.

“Workers in the private sector should get corresponding pay benefits if they render work on said holidays,” Ursua said.

Following the labor advisory, the following rules will be observed for both Special Non-Working Holidays: 1. If the employee did not work, the “no work, no pay” principle shall apply unless

policy, practice or collective bargaining agreement (CBA) granting payment on a special day; 2.

For work done during the special day, he/she shall be paid an additional 30% of his/ her daily rate on the first eight hours of work [(Daily rate x 130%) + COLA]; 3.

For work done in excess of eight hours (overtime work), he/she shall be paid an additional 30% of his/her hourly rate on said day (Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 130% x 130% x number of hours worked); 4. For work done during a special day that also falls on his/her rest day, he/she shall be paid an additional 50% of his/ her daily rate on the first eight hours of work [(Daily rate x 150%) + COLA]; and 5.

For work done in excess of eight hours (overtime work) during a special day that also falls on his/her rest day, he/she shall be paid an additional 30% of his/her hourly rate on said day (Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 150% x 130% x number of hours worked).

Workers who will not be paid correctly on those dates should visit the nearest DOLE field office,” said Ursua.(MCA/ JNPD/PIA-1/La Union with reports from DOLE-1)

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