THE MINDANAO TODAY APRIL 14-15, 2023

By Franck Dick Rosete Correspondent

MAMBAJAO, CAMIGUIN

– The authorities didn’t want to repeat the enormous damage brought by Mount Hibok-

preps plan for volcanic eruption

Hibok’s last eruption in 1951, hence, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the provincial government of Camiguin conducted the four-day workshop on the formulation of a contin-

gency plan for the province’s response against volcanic eruption.

The first day of the workshop started Wednesday, April 12, when DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr.,

visited this island-province and personally provided lectures on the event, which has been attended by different local government units (LGUs) and government agencies.

CAMIGUIN | P7

MSME’s best practices amid Covid to be cited

By Uriel Quilinguing Contributing Editor

MICRO, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Northern Mindanao and elsewhere nationwide would

be cited for best practices the past two years, incidentally marked by Covid-19 pandemic, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-10 said Wednesday, April 12.

Lawyer Ma. Vergel B.

Walag, RTWPB-10 secretariat head, announced this in a 2023 Productivity Olympics launch, in the presence of MSME representatives at the Mallberry Suites Business Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.

“After 10 years, we hope

the region will produce a national winner again,” Walag said even as she recalled that it was in 2013 when Ozamiz City-based E. Lim Agricultural Supply and Poultry Dressing Plant was national

Oro kids to have measles, polio vax

MANY eligible children here missed their routine immunization because of the Covid-19 pandemic; hence, the month-long Measles-Rubella and Oral Polio Vaccine (MR-OPV) Supplemental Immunization Activity will be conducted starting May 1 to improve the immunization rate. The data of routine immunization in the city from the last

years were not

The Coast Guard District Northern Mindanao kicks off its sports festival with various games as part of the pre-anniversary held at its base in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental. (Photo courtesy of the Coast Guard District Northern Mindanao FB page)

Navy Capt. Charles Merric Villanueva (left), the commanding officer of the BRP Antonio Luna, briefs Maj. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, the 4ID commander, on the ship's role, mission and capabilities during the latter’s visit at the Macabalan wharf in Cagayan de Oro recently. (Photo courtesy of the 4th Infantry Division FB page)

two

Fri-Sat, April 14-15, 2023

2 ASG members yield amid military ops in Basilan

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Two Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits have surrendered amid the ongoing focused military operations against them in Basilan province, a military official said.

Lt. Commander Muksin Jasid, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) information officer, said

Adzhar Usman Langkang and Karasan Turabin Anta turned themselves in on Tuesday and turned over an M16 rifle and an M1 Garand rifle with ammunition.

Jasid said the two surrenderers were presented to Rear Admiral Donn Anthony Miraflor, NFWM commander, at the Naval Station Ro-

mulo Espaldon in this city.

They underwent medical checkup at Camp Navarro General Hospital (CNGH) before their turnover to the JTF–Basilan for proper documentation.

They were presented to Rear Admiral Donn Anthony Miraflor, Naval Forces Western Mindanao commander

(center), and were given initial assistance. They will be enrolled in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government as well as the Program Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) for ASG members in Basilan. (Teofilo Garcia, Jr. | PNA)

551 residents get P2.8-M TUPAD payments in Siargao Island town

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – Some 551

residents from San Isidro town in Siargao Island received P2.8 million worth of payments for the 15-day work they rendered through the Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Ating mga Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.

In a statement Thursday, the office of Surigao del Norte 1st District Rep.

Francisco Jose Matugas II said each of the beneficiaries received PHP5,250 in the payout conducted on Wednesday.

The regular wage designated for beneficiaries under the Department of Labor and Employment's TUPAD program is set at PHP350 per day.

“We continue to provide funding for the TUPAD program of DOLE to support our residents whose sources

of income were severely affected by the pandemic and the previous calamities that hit Siargao Island,” Matugas said.

Meanwhile, some 700 beneficiaries from Del Carmen town on the island are also set to receive their TUPAD payments on Friday.

An estimated PHP3.6 million worth of payments will be released to the beneficiaries for the 15 days of community service. (PNA)

OVP pilots supplemental nutrition aid in Davao school

By Che Palicte

DAVAO CITY – The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) to pilot-test the "Pansarap’" initiative, a supplemental nutrition program for undernourished learners, in Lower Tamugan Elementary School (LTES) here on Tuesday.

OVP Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez said at least 733 undernourished learners from kindergarten to Grade 6 level from LTES are the first beneficiaries of the nutritional buns developed by the Department of Science and Technology through

the Food and Nutrition Research Institute.

The Pansarap buns come in 10 flavors, all Halal certified, and will be distributed to students from Mondays to Fridays for 120 days.

Brembhot Eyas, the LTES principal, said the number of undernourished children in their school is "alarming." The school currently has 988 enrolled learners.

“For this, we are grateful to the OVP for doing such an initiative to give equal importance to the health of our students,” Eyas was quoted in the OVP statement Wednesday.

Lopez said the OVP plans to bring the program to

other parts of the country with high cases of malnutrition among children. (PNA)

Maguindanao Norte OIC guv assumes office

By Edwin Fernandez COTABATO

CITY – Maguindanao del Norte Officer in Charge Governor Abdulraof Macacua officially started organizing the provincial bureaucracy when he formally assumed office Tuesday.

Macacua, the military chief of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF),

challenged those opposed to his appointment by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to bring the matter before the Supreme Court (SC).

“Those questioning my appointment by the President, they can go to the SC,” he said during a news conference on Tuesday afternoon.

Macacua is a member

of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s (BARMM) Bangsamoro Transition Authority, the region’s provisional lawmaking body.

Before he was appointed OIC governor, Macacua served as senior BARMM minister.

He pledged to push for "moral governance" that the MILF-led BARMM has

been espousing in running the affairs of the provincial government. Macacua, who carries the nom de guerre “Sammy Gambar,” promised to work right away so that the delays in the delivery of basic services and the salaries and wages of provincial government employees are addressed. (PNA)

Off-duty anti-narco cop killed in NoCot shooting

KABACAN, North Cotabato – Police have launched a manhunt against gunmen behind the slaying of an off-duty police officer on Tuesday night in this town.

Capt. Razul Pandulo, deputy municipal police chief, identified the slain victim as Staff Sgt. Abejay Dandan, a member of the Police Provincial Drug

Enforcement Unit and a resident of Carmen, North Cotabato.

“Dandan was driving his car along the Davao-Cotabato highway in Barangay Katidtuan with his 10-year-old son and a house helper onboard when fired at around 8:00 p.m.,” he said.

Responding cops rushed Dandan to the hospital, but

he expired three hours later. His son and house help emerged unscathed from the incident.

Initial investigation bared that Dandan’s vehicle was heading towards adjacent Kidapawan City when tailed by a pickup truck and a sports utility vehicle whose armed occupants sprayed them with bullets.

The victim’s car fell into a ditch following the incident. Recovered from the crime scene were empty shells from M16 rifles. According to Pandulo, they are considering several motives behind the attack but declined to disclose further details pending investigation. (John

Andrew Tabugoc | PNA)

Surigao del Norte 1st District Rep. Francisco Jose Matugas II (sitting, 2nd left). (Photo courtesy of Rep. Bingo Matugas)

ASG SURRENDERERS. Two Abu Sayyaf extremists surrendered to authorities. (Photo courtesy of NFWM)

The car of slain Staff Sgt. Abejay Dandan of the Kabacan police office that fell on a ditch. (Photo courtesy of Kabacan MPS)

Girl Scouts from different schools in Iligan City gather for the five-day city-wide 21st encampment held at Ditucalan National High School. (ADD | PIA-10 | Lanao del norte)

436 girl scouts join city-wide encampment in Iligan

By Charlene Collantes

ILIGAN CITY – Four hundred thirty-six girl scouts from different schools here joined in the five-day citywide 21st encampment to enhance their life skills and upgrade their values, especially after the pandemic.

Iligan Council President Rose Marie Ann Saavedra said the encampment was conducted because of the need of the girls to be exposed to life skills and how to handle themselves during emergencies.

"We are just hoping that our girls will be learning how to take care of themselves in terms of emergency and how to take care of themselves without their parents guiding them," she said.

Girls Scout of the Philippines (GSP) Central Board Director Isabelita Borres emphasized that girls scouting is an application of all knowledge and skills of the students they learned inside the classroom.

Meanwhile, Rizalina Alemania, regional executive

MisOr PVAO pushes for vets’ pension increase, benefits

By Jan Albert Araña MISAMIS ORIENTAL –

In celebration of this year's Philippine Veterans Week, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office-10 (PVAO-10) has shared that a proposal to increase the pension of all veterans is currently awaiting approval in Congress, April 4.

P1,700 to P4,500.

Health and Education Benefits

director of GS-Western Mindanao, said despite the pandemic they never stopped providing opportunities for the girl students to be proactive.

Moreover, schools are elated with the activity as it capacitated their students with skills and knowledge.

"This event is a very important one because it will help the campers, the learners to develop survival skills. As a girls scout, it is very important that they will learn to survive in any situation, especially in emergencies," said Cherryl Estabas of Iligan City National High School.

Moreover, Estabas encouraged the campers to continue joining in camping to experience fun.

The campers underwent training and awareness on mental health/expressive art, self-defense, and water safety. There were also a Grand Campfire, Tita’s Night, the Coronation Night for Junior and Senior GSP and Ginang GSP. (CEC |

PIA-10 | Lanao del Norte)

World Vision, partners visit Oro Care Village

By Irene Joy Dayo

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– Participants for the threeday ACE Partners’ Review and Assessment coming from Quezon City and Region 10 visited the Oro Care Village in Upper Puerto, this city, on March 29.

Oro Care Village is a 5-hectare facility of the City Government of Cagayan de Oro, through its City Social Welfare and Development Office, which is intended for the abandoned and abused women and children, and senior citizens.

In her talk, Chairperson for Committee on Social Development of the City Council, Councilor Joyleen Mercedes Balaba said that the facility is an initiative of then Mayor Oscar Moreno's administration, and continuously maintained and strengthened by the current administration of Mayor Rolando Uy.

Oro Youth Development Office (OYDO) Officer-inCharge Lord Saver D. Centina also shared some of the

city's best practices when it comes to upholding the rights and welfare of children.

He said that the City Government through the Oro Youth Development Office spearheaded the Oro Kasanag Awards 2022 last February, and it awarded the Seal of Child-friendly Police Station.

According to him, Seal of Child-friendly Police Station is an annual youth-led social audit to sustain the childfriendly efforts and initiatives towards the city's promotion of children's rights and welfare. Police Station 5

- Macabalan headed by Maj. Ericson Sabanal bagged the Three-Star Excellent Performance Award in the search.

The visitation in Oro Care Village also features welcoming performances coming from the beneficiaries themselves. The visitors also purchased products made by the beneficiaries such as baked pastries, boiled corn on the cob, rice flour and more. (IJBD | PIA-10)

"The PVAO proposed an increase in the old-age pension from P5,000 to P8,000 per month," said Luisa Revecho, PVAO-10 field service extension office (FSEO) head, during the “Talakayan sa PIA.”

Aside from the old-age pension, there are also plans to raise other pensions, such as the service-connected disability pension, which would go from P1,700 to P10,000, and the total administrative disability (TAD) pension, which would go from

In addition to pensions, veterans are also qualified for hospitalization benefits, wherein 16 beds are allocated for the veterans and beneficiaries at the veteran's ward in the Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NNMC), reimbursement of medical maintenance expenses is provided, and a memorandum of agreement is signed by 50 different hospitals within the region.

A direct descendant of a World War II veteran can avail themselves of educational assistance from the PVAO, which can be acquired once per lineage.

There is also education assistance for the children of those soldiers who are killed in action, which can be availed of by two children under the Armed Forces of

the Philippines Educational Benefit System (AFPEBSO).

Through the AFPEBSO program, a child can avail themselves of tuition fee assistance from elementary school through college.

Meanwhile, Revecho also announced that the veteran's ward in the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital is almost done, and a memorandum of agreement was signed between the Armed Forces of the Philippines

(AFP) and the PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority for the P30 million cost of supplies and medicines per year. PVAO-10 currently has 2,951 active veterans in northern Mindanao. The agency vows to keep the legacy of our veterans alive through strengthened social support and to instill it in the minds of the younger generations. (JAKA | PIA-10 | Misamis Oriental)

Fri-Sat, April 14-15, 2023

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AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

The story of Easter

(2nd

of 3 parts)

THIS great teacher, a charismatic leader who brought the truth of human rights, dignity and equality, into the world to transform it, was executed for being a man of action, doing good for the poor and the downtrodden.

He was an outcast by the religious leaders, a threat to the authorities, a target of death threats and assassination plots, like human rights workers and community leaders, the true committed Christians today.

For almost two years he was the kindly, generous, healing prophet that brought into the world immense compassion, healing, forgiveness and solidarity with the poor.

He took on the mission of the Prophet Isaiah to bring good news to the poor that they were loved by God above all others.

He taught that God through his followers would free them from poverty and oppression.

He would enlighten those blind to the truth, that God is a God of love and freedom.

Jesus would set free all the oppressed and that a great change was coming to the world where the poor would be saved from

misery and injustice. (Luke 4:16-20)

The elite, the elders, the chief priests and Pharisees, did not accept that message and rejected him and his mission.

They would not or could not change. Their wealth and power was secured by their harsh system.

He was feeling the rejection of his message by the religious and political leaders at that time and he challenged and criticized them.

They became angry and wanted to kill him. Jesus and his disciples gave them an excuse to outlaw him and put a price on his head.

After two years of trying to persuade them to accept the message of peace and justice, Jesus decided to challenge them openly with social action.

He knew the corrupt practices of the chief priests and rich elders. They owned the supply of sacrificial animals and sold them to worshipers through vendors in the market.

The market was within the temple grounds. Although sacrilegious, the priests allowed the selling of their animals there and became super rich. They allowed money changers, for a high fee, to set up stalls. (LiCAS.news)

Impact of grandmas on family, society

(1st of 2 parts)

MOTHERS and grandmothers have always been around. Only two months ago were statistics crunched about them, thanks to the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research.

Grandparents now number 1.5 billion worldwide, up from 500 million in the 1960s, The Economist reported January.

As a share of the population, they’ve risen from 17 to 20 percent. That’s from increasing lifespans and falling fertility.

On average people today live up to 72, from 51 in the 1960s. Mothers used to have 5 children then, now 2.4.

Even if only in longevity, “lolo” and “lola” are able to catch up with “apo.”

The ratio of grandparents to children under 15 years has jumped from 0.46 in 1960 to 0.8 today.

Given this trend, there will be 2.1 billion grandparents by 2050. They will comprise 22 percent of humanity, slightly more than 15-year-olds and below.

The impact on humanity will be profound. Evidence shows that children do much better with the influence of grandparents, essentially grandmothers.

The more grandparents doing “apo-stolic duty,” the more mothers doing work for pay.

Humans get most of their traits from their mothers and grandmothers. That’s genetics.

The female chromosome is X and the male is Y. A fetus with XX chromosomes is female; XY is male.

Half of the chromosomes is from the mother. Next generation is again XX for girl and XY for boy. Chromosomes from grandmother filter down.

Grandparents vary from country to country, The Economist said. They’re 20 percent of Bulgarians but only 10 percent of Burundians. Average age is 53 in Uganda and 72 in Japan.

Grandmothers everywhere are an extra pair of hands in caring for infants. With them at home, daughters with toddlers are able to work.

In subsistence-farming Senegal most children who survive to age 2 had grandmas living with them.

In Mexico an “abuela”’s death reduces by 27 percent the chance of her daughter continuing to work, and slashes her earnings 53 percent. No effect on the employment rate of fathers.

(To be continued) (LiCAS. news)

Motivational rice and affective presence as a tool

one is subjective. You can be annoyed at someone but others may not be annoyed at that same person.

“I really want to be nice, but annoying people just won’t let me.” – from coolfunnyquotes.com

BECAUSE of all this commentary about motivational rice lately, I recently had a daydream of famous vloggers singing, “We don’t talk about that motivational speaker” a la “Encanto” the movie.

As a background, the so-called motivational rice is about the P100 rice being sold at a bar owned by a very peculiar motivational speaker.

This speaker likes to get everybody’s ire by his controversial take on certain issues.

When people questioned the exorbitant price of the rice in his bar, he responded with his trademark bizarre logic spliced with insults disguised as motivational rhetoric.

I initially thought it was best to ignore the so-called online personality.

Unfortunately, just like many people, I find it difficult to avoid noticing the said personality. The person is like a mosquito buzzing at night.

Generally, being annoyed at some-

However, there are some unique individuals who can annoy almost everyone.

The ability of some people to completely annoy almost everyone is a recognized scientific phenomenon. It is called negative “affective presence.”

Usually, people avoid a person with a negative affective presence.

However, this individual’s negative affective presence is so high that it actually triggers negative attention.

In addition, this person seems to be unaffected by negative backlash and even seems to relish the hate and ridicule he generates.

Most persons are bothered by criticism and ridicule in varying degrees. However, as one vlogger commented, this person’s confidence level is so high that he reminds you of classmates in school that raise their hands in class even though they don’t know the answer and find no shame in giving ridiculous answers. In this regard, many people seem to be fascinated with his unique personality.

There are many who say that this person is a clever actor who can turn on a separate online persona to garner as many online followers as he can.

Apparently, he has the ability to intentionally exude and sustain an affective presence despite all that negative backlash all for the sake of earning money.

It takes a unique individual to continue to say things despite being ridiculed or bashed. It shows an extreme ability to focus on a goal.

One psychologist even commented that this may be an example of a cleverly engineered campaign to evoke a visceral thrill in many people and gain attention.

In an era where many seem to live and die by the number of likes in their social media posts, the ability to absorb negative comments in the pursuit of livelihood can be a useful tool.

Also, this ability may just be the antidote for the growing online cancel culture. It would be fun to watch a person with the smarts of a Jordan Peterson and the ability to shrug off negative backlash battling it out with smug progressives here in this country.

Communication strategists can use people with these abilities to distract and irritate certain sectors under a multi layered communication strategy.

Political strategists can also study this phenomenon and see if negative affective presence can be tweaked and refined to create a new political brand for politicians. Now that would be interesting. This is my oblique observation. (PNA)

1,200 Oro women benefit from gov’t cash aid, services

By Glacetene Kayl Daba

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– In line with the celebration of National Women’s Month, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), in collaboration with Gender Advocates of Region 10, held a women’s summit at the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines where a total of 1,200 beneficiaries received P3,000 in cash assistance from the government on March 27.

People with disabilities, drug surrenderers, pregnant women, and the mothers of city scholars from 80 barangays in the city are among the people got the cash aid through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

"Women’s month is all about remembering why we started this celebration; it’s all about continuing how we call out the government, private companies, and individuals to continue promoting and protecting women’s rights," said lawyer Kristine Rosary Yuzon-Chaves, PCW executive director.

Partners in the celebration are the Department of Agriculture-10, City Health Office, Bureau of Treasury, Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Information Communication and Technology, Women and Children Protection

Unit of Northern Mindanao Medical Center, and the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority in Region 10.

The Women’s Summit

offered legal and medical services to the beneficiaries and provided nine breakout sessions where beneficiaries could expand their knowledge and cultivate new sources of income.

“I’m very grateful that we were given the privilege of receiving cash assistance. Hopefully this will continue in the upcoming years so that they will be able to help more people,” Joan Sablada, a housewife from Barangay Taglimao, said.

Cagayan de Oro City Councilor Imee Moreno also stated that the local government unit will continue to encourage future programs that will assist women in taking care of themselves and mitigating their burdens towards their responsibilities.

(GKND | PIA-10)

Oro

job fair gives new opportunities to fresh grads

CAGAYAN DE ORO

CITY — For every individual, education has always been regarded as a key to a brighter future and a way to break the cycle of unemployment and poverty.

Being educated, one is equipped with competencies in order to get a decent employment.

A one-day job fair was conducted by the Department of Labor and Employment-10 (DOLE10) Cagayan de Oro City Field Office (CDOFO) led by Provincial Director Emmanuel Toledo at the PHINMA COC auditorium, this city, on March 21.

With a vision in mind, PHINMA-COC collaborated with the Job Placement Bureau - Public Employment Service Office (JPB-PESO) and the DOLE-10 CDOFO to provide its new graduates and alumni an opportunity to be accommodated by various employers as first -time job seekers.

There were 1,123 job vacancies from thirty-six participating local companies and firms were made available to 203 applicants.

Eighteen job seekers were considered hired on the spot (HOTS) while seventy-nine were considered near-hires who were scheduled for final interview and completion of requirements.

22-year old Alyssa Jane Galon who is a working student from the Municipality of Binuangan, Misamis Oriental went her way to the city in search of making her dreams a reality to support her family.

For six years, she worked for an employer who has been supportive in her education so long as she is able to balance her responsibilities as a house help.

Galon is now on her 4th year as a Management Accounting student and she believes that opportunities are within reach especially now that she is hired to be part of the accounting staff under Savemore Incorporated.

She is very grateful for the chance to get employed, and hopes that this will open more doors for her in the future. (DOLE-10)

DA, BARMM target to expand PH fish production

MARAWI CITY – Officials from the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) and BARMM’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) met to discuss the recent directive of Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which is to expand the country’s fisheries production by 10 percent.

Lawyer Demosthenes Escoto, BFAR national director, Assistant National Director Isidro Velayo, Regional Director Sammy Malvas, Fisheries Planning and Evaluation Chief Maria Abegail Albaladejo discussed this recently with MAFAR Director-General for Fisheries Services Pendatun Patarasa, Director II for Fisheries Operations Dr. Macmod Mamalangkap, and Director for Agrarian Reform Support Services Dr. Tong Pinguiaman.

Director Escoto expressed his appreciation to MAFAR Minister Mohammad Yacob for acknowledging the importance of the meeting.

“This meeting with MAFAR will bring to the fore

addressing fisheries concerns nationwide, which requires a concerted effort of all regions, including BARMM,” Escoto said.

To recall, BARMM ranked first in the country for two consecutive years in terms of fishery production volume, with a total production record of 4.25 million metric tons in 2021. Last year, this grew to a total of 4.34 million metric tons.

Meanwhile, MAFAR Director-General for Fisheries Services Patarasa conveyed MAFAR Minister Yacob's message of gratitude and support in strengthening

its partnership with BFAR to sustain the recent gains of the fisheries sector in BARMM and ensure adequate contribution to food security, improve farmer and fisherfolk income, and reduce poverty.

"The policy directions of MAFAR are aligned with those of the national agency (BFAR), including production increase food security and nutrition," Patarasa said.

Accordingly, the ministry wants to focus on highimpact projects such as postharvest facilities, including seaweed warehouses and

the construction and rehabilitation of existing fish ports/landings to reduce the high fisheries post-harvest losses.

"MAFAR is looking at augmenting the production of the regional production both in Aquaculture and Capture Fisheries," Patarasa further stressed.

At the end of the meeting, both the DA-BFAR and the BARMM-MAFAR agreed to keep working together for the benefit of farmers and fishermen in the Bangsamoro region and the rest of the country. (BIO with reports from MAFAR | PIA-10)

Inter-agencies collab for 1st Philippine Coffee Quality competition

MARAMAG, BUKIDNON

– In preparation for the annual Philippine Coffee Quality Competition (PCQC), the Northern Mindanao Coffee Council in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Rural Development Project 10 (DA-PRDP 10), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Central Mindanao University (CMU), Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF),

ACDI VOCA-PhilCAFE project holds the first Regional Coffee Evaluation at Central Mindanao University, Musuan, Maramag, Bukidnon on March 14-17.

The activity opened an avenue for the evaluation of the quality of coffee beans of the farmers and at the same time, provided feedback for improvement in terms of production and postharvest activities.

In order to identify the

best quality coffee in the region, the participating farmers have submitted coffee bean samples, underwent a four-day evaluation through coffee Q grading, roasting, calibration and cupping.

Carlen Collado, DA-10 regional executive director and RPCO-10 project director, extended his appreciation to the organizers of the activity, leading the farmers to produce quality coffee in

the region that can compete in the global market.

He further said that the agency will continue its mandate to assist the recipients/beneficiaries in their goal of reaching the international market.

Dr. Janet Lopez, DA provincial operations center (POC) chief for Bukidnon, said the activity will enable the stakeholders to converge and improve their quest for

increasing production and income.

“DA through the Philippine Rural Development Project and the High Value Crops Development Program has provided different interventions in pursuing high-quality coffee, aside from capacitating the farmers’ cooperatives, associations producing coffee,” said Lopez.

She added that the collaborative effort is a great

opportunity for the coffee farmers to brace in the Annual Philippine Coffee Quality Competition.

She noted that Northern Mindanao has competitively engaged at the international level as Bukidnon coffee proves with several breakthroughs with a strengthened collaboration and support both from the government and other organizations. (DA-10)

Some 1,200 beneficiaries attended the Women's Summit 2023 at the USTP gymnasium on March 27. (PIA-10)

With eased travel protocols, Camiguin records 19,042 visitors of Panaad 2023 Panaad 2023

QC, CDO LGU cite best practices vs child labor, exploitation

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The local government units of Quezon City and Cagayan de Oro City exchanged best practices in their combat against child labor and exploitation in a three-day Project Against Child Exploitation (ACE) Regional Partners Review and Assessment at Chali Beach Resort, this city on March 29-31.

The World Vision Development Foundation Inc., organizer and implementer of Project Against Child Exploitation (ACE), has come up with three major outcomes: to help the government in law enforcement, strengthen services for the children, and solidify partnership between national government agencies and local government units.

Based on a released survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), among the 17 regions, northern Mindanao had the largest share of the country’s child laborers.

In 2020, there were 13 (13.1%) child laborers from northern Mindanao for every 100 child laborers nationwide.

CAMIGUIN – With its continued efforts to economic recovery while fostering smart tourism, the Provincial Government of Camiguin eased its travel protocols, requiring only the 19,042 devotees and visitors during the Panaad 2023 with the Clean Camiguin QR code as they enter the province.

From only over 7,000 devotees and tourists in 2022 based on the report of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)-10, the number of travelers increased to 19,042 from April 1 to 9.

From this number, 14,292 were recorded from the Benoni Port, Balbagon Port (480), Guinsiliban Port (3,574), and Camiguin Airport (696).

Such also exceeded the PPA's projected 10,000-15,000 number of visitors for this year's pilgrimage and observance of the Holy Week.

“Last year, it was just the start of the activities from Covid, now, people are really traveling more,

moving more, and more people are vaccinated; it's safer to travel. That's why more people came to take part in the pilgrimage,” Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo said.

As for the travel protocols, Romualdo emphasized that with the high COVID-19 vaccination turnout as well as the province's booster rate, they already allowed the entry of unvaccinated tourists and visitors.

“Before, only those who are vaccinated against COVID-19 can come here for tourism or leisure, so as if it's for work or essential purposes. Now we have opened our doors for the unvaccinated visitors. The only requirement is to take an antigen test that is negative antigen test,” he added.

He emphasized that selfadministered antigen test results will not be accepted in the entry points. They will only honor those negative antigen results from an accredited health facility of the Department of Health (DOH).

Responding to concerns on the long queues along Balingoan Port, Misamis Oriental, Romualdo said this roots from the issuance of tickets of the shipping companies and such also depends on the availability of the vessels.

He however said that there are now two more vessels that

will operate in the province and they have already obtained their permits. Thus, it will now be easier to accommodate more visitors in the province.

Importance of CleanCamiguin QR

Ensuring safety and comfort of those who want to visit the

The Bicol Region came in second with about 9 (9.2%). With 1.6 percent, the Cordillera Administrative Region had the lowest proportion of child laborers in 2020.

The NCR came in second with 1.9 percent, and the Davao Region came in third with 2.2 percent.

Daphne DG Culanag, World Vision Project ACE director, shared that in 2021, there was a 2% increase in child labor in the country.

According to a study by the International Justice Mission, the Philippines is a hub for online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OASEC), she said.

“The Philippines is a hotspot in OSAEC in the whole world because we are good in English and children are good at using gadgets. It is so sad, and that is why we should continue to work together,” she shared.

She also advised parents to not use their children to earn money. This is wrong and must be changed, she reiterated.

In Cagayan de Oro City, from 2018 to 2022, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) profiled 11,000 child laborers. In 2022, 3,625 child laborers were profiled from the different 80 barangays. (Jasper Marie Rucat | PIA-10)

PhilHealth, PMA hold dialogue; strengthen ties for patients

STATE health insurer PhilHealth and the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) and its various medical societies have joined together in a “technical conference” on March 23 to further cement their partnership to ensure that patients’ healthcare

needs are adequately provided and paid for through social health insurance.

The said meeting also aims to thresh out issues and concerns affecting accreditation, processing and payment of claims filed by healthcare providers from

different parts of the country, Konsulta package inclusions, among others.

The participants were also briefed on the latest developments on the implementation of Universal Health Care law, enhancements on benefit packages despite the suspension of the legislated contribution schedule for 2023, and updates on operations and claims benefit processing.

The meeting was made possible through the efforts of House Committee on Health Chair Hon. Ciriaco Gato Jr. (Lone District, Batanes) and PMA President Dr. Maria Minerva Calimag, and hosted by the Office of the Vice President for Area 2 under Walter Bacareza. (PR | PhilHealth)

PANAAD | p7

Devotees, residents and visitors of Camiguin join the early morning mass to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, April 9, 2023, as led by the San Nicholas Parish Church. (JME | PIA-10 | Camiguin)

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19) — Money that has come your way unexpectedly might have you thinking in terms of expanding your personal interests and holdings, Aries. You might consider trying some new investments, particularly property. There's no need to rush to make a decision, however. You have all the time in the world to consider different options - and have some fun while you do it.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20) — Money that has come your way unexpectedly might have you thinking in terms of expanding your personal interests and holdings, Aries. You might consider trying some new investments, particularly property. There's no need to rush to make a decision, however. You have all the time in the world to consider different options - and have some fun while you do it.

GEMINI (May 21 -June 20) — Recent successes haven't made you feel you can rest on your laurels, Gemini. Rather, you're more likely to work harder. Today you might spend a lot of time considering different options for improving your socioeconomic status. Among them might be enterprises connected with the planet. Business and romantic partners could inspire you.

CANCER (June 21 -July 22) — This is likely a day when you want to reflect on your successes. As your professional success continues to skyrocket, your sense of self-confidence follows suit. So do your relationships with family, friends, children, and romantic partners. Your mind is especially sharp, Cancer, and your personal innovations should continue to progress. Life is good and likely to stay that way for a while.

LEO (July 23 -Aug. 22) — Surprising developments in your life might bring a lot of visitors and much happiness to your home. You could host a party or other sort of gathering. This is likely to keep you very busy throughout the day, Leo, but you will have fun all the same. Don't let shop talk interfere with times like this. This is the time to relax and enjoy your good fortune. Use it to your advantage.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - S ep. 22) — Some wonderful new developments could take place in your community, Virgo. You might meet some new people who move in nearby. New businesses could also arrive and give a whole new look to the area. You could spend a lot of time visiting others to learn about what's happening. You might also consider fixing up your home, as recent success has made that possible. You will be busy all day.

LIBRA (Sep. 23 -Oct. 22) — A high level of self-confidence and optimism should stay with you throughout the day, Libra. Your energy is good, as is your enthusiasm. The success and good fortune that have been coming your way are likely to stay with you. You may have just been blessed with more money and happiness. Of course, this feeling is also likely to attract more friends. Make the most of it!

SCORPIO (Oct. 3 -Nov. 21) — Happiness is the mood of the day, Scorpio, as you enjoy the fruits of all your hard work over the past few years. You're able to pursue a few things that you've never been able to before. You're likely surrounded by old and new friends, and romance is blossoming. You probably also look especially attractive now. If all this sounds too good to be true, wake up! It's happening!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 -Dec. 21) — Happiness is the mood of the day, Scorpio, as you enjoy the fruits of all your hard work over the past few years. You're able to pursue a few things that you've never been able to before. You're likely surrounded by old and new friends, and romance is blossoming. You probably also look especially attractive now. If all this sounds too good to be true, wake up! It's happening!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) — The company of good friends, perhaps at a group activity or festival of some kind, contributes to a powerful feeling of good health, good fortune, and happiness, Capricorn. You will probably want to spend a lot of time outdoors today. Sports might appeal to you. There will be a few minor accidents - dropping things, spilling drinks - but in all, this should be a satisfying day.

AQUARIUS (J an. 20 - Feb. 18) —

Continued success and good fortune regarding finances could have you flying high right now, Aquarius. You're probably glowing with self-confidence and may well be surrounded by good friends. There might even be some public acclaim. A few minor mishaps might occur today, but they certainly won't put a damper on the mood. Expect to have a wonderful day!

PISCES (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) — Now that you've earned your place in the world after all your hard work, Pisces, you might take some time to pursue your own interests. This could involve writing or publishing, going back to school to get an advanced degree, or taking a trip around the world. You have the time and energy to think about all your different options, so don't feel you have to rush.

MINDANAO TODAY

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

CAMIGUIN | from p1

"This workshop is important for you to consider different scenarios so that, God forbid, if something happens again, be it a volcanic eruption or an earthquake, you are ready," Solidum said in a mix of English and Filipino during his lecture.

According to the official website of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the last series of eruptions of Mount Hibok-Hibok were recorded in 1948-1951.

The minor eruption in 1948 only resulted in a little damage and loss of life, according to an article from MindaNews, whose information came from a Camiguin website. The eruption in 1949, on the other hand, caused 79 deaths due to

MSME's | from p1

winner under the Agribusiness Category.

She assured assistance to MSMEs who intend to join in the Productivity Olympics, in complying with the documentary requirements for submission to the National Screening Committee, the deadline of which is set on May 31.

National winners will be known in October – a highlight in the National Quality and Productivity Improvement Month celebration.

Organized by the National Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board, the biennial search is open to all MSMEs registered with appropriate

ORO | from p1

presented, but in 2020, only 77 percent of children in Cagayan de Oro were fully immunized, said Dr. Ina Grace Chiu, the CHO’s National Immunization Program medical coordinator, in a press briefing on Monday, April 3.

The said immunization coverage was considered low, as the local government needs to achieve at least 95 percent coverage per year.

"So, when we say 70 percent or 80 percent, that’s very low; that’s why we have this kind of activity, the MR-OPV SIA this coming May 1-31, to have additional fully immunized children," Chu said.

The health department, in collaboration with the barangays, will be conducting houseto-house immunizations. A fixed post will also be established, and the immunization will also be available in the 54 health centers in the city.

The eligible children are ages zero to 59 months for the

SUMMER | from p8 development officer, during the PPASK radio program.

In light of his recent election as the Regional Peace and Order Council Chair, Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo intends to work with the Camiguin Provincial Police Office to strengthen initiatives that contribute to the eradication of crime and the reduction of violence in the province.

The event will also be officiated by the Practical Shooters Match Officers Consideration (PSMOC), which will be held at Quiboro, a private firing range in Mambajao, in an attempt to further equip and strengthen their aim and firearms capabilities.

landslides.

However, the eruption on December 4, 1951, according to the same article, "unleashed boiling lava, poisonous gases, and landslides that destroyed nearly 19 square kilometers of land, particularly in Mambajao town." In total, over 3,000 people were killed.

Solidum, during the workshop, highlighted the identification of the hazards and risks; the close monitoring and forecasting; the importance of providing warning and the dissemination of relative information; and the provision of a proper and timely response.

The definition of each alert level for a volcanic eruption was also reiterated by the DOST's top official in order for the LGUs to determine when to partially and fully evacuate the residents.

agencies, compliant with labor and occupational safety and health standards, and listed in the Annual Establishment Report on Wages online system.

Participating MSMEs will be evaluated on business sustainability, employee engagement and preservation, product and service innovations, green initiatives, and corporate social responsibility.

Based on the same criteria, RTWPB-10 will be choosing nine regional winners who will represent the region in the national competition, according to Supervising Labor Employment Officer Bernie Boy Salinas, the regional focal person of the Productivity Olympics.

“We’ll be choosing three

polio vaccine and nine months to 59 months for the measlesrubella vaccine.

Regardless of the children's immunization status, whether fully immunized or not, eligible children should still be given the vaccines as part of the CHO’s initiative to also combat the spread of the said diseases.

In an interview around October last year, Dr. Emma Imperio, national immunization program medical coordinator for the Department of Health (DOH) Region 10, said that the number of suspected measles and rubella cases reported in the Northern Mindanao region in 2022 has increased by 82 percent, tallying 122 suspected measles and rubella cases from January 1 to October 16 last year.

This was 55 cases higher compared to the reported cases in the same period in 2021.

The local government units (LGU), as well as the DOH Region 10, have not been stopped in implementing routine immunization for children despite

“Safety is the paramount or the most important thing in holding their tool or their firearm, if we compare the tool to their profession, one false move and it’s very dangerous. So we really needed to hold a Summer Shoot Fest for our men in uniform, especially the police since they are our frontliners,” Dael added.

In line with solidifying sports shooting tourism on the island in order to boost local tourism, Romualdo also encourages authorities and law enforcement agencies from other regions to participate in the event as part of increased protection for the safety and welfare of civilians. (GKND | PIA-10 | Camiguin)

Camiguin Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo said due to the land size, the province will be entirely affected just in case there is a "volcanic eruption" on Mount Hibok-Hibok. Although there would be most affected areas, he said, depending on the eruption.

"That’s why it’s very important that all municipalities and all barangays are involved in the planning because you cannot tell," Romualdo said in a mix of English and vernacular in a press conference on Wednesday.

The product of the workshop that will last until April 15 will be the province's contingency plan.

The next step will be the conduct of drills and practices of the plan in order for the local authorities to distinguish the necessary things to do.

winners each in three categories,” Salinas told The Monitor Mindanao Today, and these are for micro, small, and mediumsized enterprises under the agribusiness, industry and service categories.

All of them, he said, are regional winners and their respective documents will be sent to the National Screening Committee and evaluated by representatives from the labor, management, and government sectors as well as by productivity and quality experts.

Regional winners will receive plaques and a cash prize of P10,000. Another P15,000 would be given to national finalists.

Two years ago, RTWPB-10

the pandemic.

However, one of the factors contributing to the low coverage of fully immunized children was the prioritization of Covid-19 vaccination.

Based on the Field Health Services Information System for the first and second quarters of 2022, the Northern Mindanao region had only tal-

PANAAD | from p6

province, the provincial government continues to require the use of the CleanCamiguin QR code.

Camiguin Tourism Officer Candice Borromeo-Dael said this is also part of their preparation as they will fully implement the SmarTourism program in the province soon.

The SmarTourism program, as initiated by the Department of Tourism (DOT), aims to make use of technology to promote destinations, attractions, and activities in the province. This also aims to ensure data-driven planning to boost Camiguin’s tourism.

Other agencies like the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the

HARVESTS | from p8 prices, which will also help local farmers thrive and grow their small businesses.

The SM Sunday Market is currently serving the community at: SM City Urdaneta, SM Tugegarao, SM City Baguio, SM City Cabanatuan, SM City

Tarlac, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Pampanga, SM City Clark, SM City Baliwag, SM Center Pulilan, SM City

Marilao, SM City Taytay, SM City Lucena, SM City Bacoor, SM City Dasmariñas, SM City

Romualdo’s statement was echoed by his father, Camiguin Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo, who said that the product of the workshop was also the birth of "Task Force Camiguin," which is not only focusing on peace and security but also on providing broader coverage. There are seven volcanoes in Camiguin – also known as "The Island Born of Fire" – but only Mount Hibok-Hibok is considered active.

It is one of 24 active volcanoes in the country and one of two active volcanoes in the Northern Mindanao region, along with Musuan Peak in Maramag, Bukidnon.

Solidum said he was open to the idea of conducting similar workshop activities in other areas of the country that have active volcanoes. (MT)

Regional Screening Committee sent seven MSME representatives, all regional winners, to the 2021 Productivity Olympics National Screening Committee, and one of them was finalist in service category – Iligan City’s Vision Quest Optical Clinic, a micro enterprise.

The Philippine Statistics Authority classifies an enterprise as a micro if it has less than 10 employees, small if it has 10 up to 99, and medium with 100 up to 199.

In asset size, the Magna Carta for MSMEs classifies an enterprise as micro if it has up to P3 million asset, small if it has P3 up to P15 million, and medium if it has P15 up to P100 million. (MT)

lied 34,163 fully immunized children aged 0 to 12 months out of the 108,469 total eligible population.

The health officials here are urging the parents to participate in the upcoming activity to fully immunize their children and protect them from measles, rubella, and polio. (Franck Dick Rosete| MT)

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) also aid in ensuring safety and security in the province.

“One of the implemented protocols is the checking of baggage with the support of the PDEA and the Coast Guard so that no illegal drugs can enter Camiguin. Baggage will be checked,” Romualdo said.

Sharing his delight to have finally joined the pilgrimage after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Arvin Martinez said he has been joining the Panaad since 1996.

“This is an annual pledge to pray in Camiguin, to give thanks for the graces given by the Lord at the same time to share the sacrifices of Jesus Christ in his pilgrimage on Good Friday when he was crucified,” Martinez said. (RTP | PIA-10 | Camiguin)

Trece Martires, SM City Tanza, SM City Rosario, SM City Santa Rosa, SM City Calamba, SM City San Pablo, SM City Batangas, SM City Lipa, SM City Naga, SM City Legazpi, SM City Puerto Princesa, SM Center Ormoc, SM City Sorsogon, SM City Iloilo, SM City Cebu, SM City Butuan, SM City CDO Uptown, and SM Lanang Premier.

One can show support to local farmers and give families nutritious farm-to-table dishes by supporting such markets.

(SM | PIA-10)

Meet the Binibining Manolo Fortich 2023 candidates

(Editor’s note: Starting today, the Mindanao Today will be introducing the 12 Binibining Manolo Fortich 2023 candidates, starting the first four beauties: Izraphel Kristine Saavedra representing Dahilayan and Mampayag; Chairmain-Ann Binayao, Guilangguilang and Santiago; Rianne Mae Getuaban, Macky Oil and Gas; and Krista Pitao, Dicklum and Lingion.)

Depicting the ridges of the Lawis Grand Canyon and portraying its windy terrain, our Binibining Manolo Fortich 2023 candidates personify the beauty of this bustling town that is riding on the paved road towards cityhood.

A gateway to Bukidnon Province – the Land of the Mountain Dwellers, Manolo Fortich is akin to its pineapple icon: proud of its crowning glory, sweet on the inside. (Text and photos courtesy of the Binibining Manolo Fortich FB

Best of farmers’ harvests sold at SM Sunday market

CAGAYAN DE ORO

CITY – Now open at 33 malls nationwide from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the SM Sunday Market has begun to offer fresh produce and fruits in season, flowers and plants grown by local farmers.

The SM Sunday

Market is a joint initiative of SM Supermalls, SM Cares, and the SM Foundation Inc. (SMFI), which spotlights its Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) program.

This helps hundreds of local food producers by providing them with

high-traffic locations at SM malls nationwide to display and market their products to weekend shoppers, employees, and tenants.

Since 2020, SM Foundation has helped 28,500 local farmers from different municipalities

nationwide by equipping them with modern and sustainable farming skills.

Consumers may opt to drop by the SM Sunday Market with family, friends, and furbabies to buy harvest at farmgate

Camiguin to host summer shoot fest 2023

By Glacetene Kayl Daba

CAMIGUIN – In order to maintain peace and order here, the provincial government will hold the Summer Shoot Fest 2023, April 14-16, with the sole purpose of training and preparing all Camiguin uniformed personnel for emergency situations.

“The summer shoot fest is a proficiency training for our men in uniform, specifically the police officers and the men in uniform of Camiguin including the Coast Guard, and Philippine Navy,” said Patrick Glenn Dael, sports

The Binibining Manolo Fortich 2023 Grand Coronation Night is on April 21 (Friday), 6:00 p.m. at the Manolo Fortich Gym. Catch our 12 beautiful ladies pay tribute to the country's alpha pageants in a show that will be one for the books! (Text and photo courtesy of the Binibining Manolo Fortich FB page)

page)

Izraphel Kristine Saavedra representing Dahilayan and Mampayag. (Photo courtesy of the Binibining Manolo Fortich FB page)

Chairmain-Ann Binayao, representing Guilangguilang and Santiago. (Photo courtesy of the Binibining Manolo Fortich FB page)

Rianne Mae Getuaban, representing Macky Oil and Gas. (Photo courtesy of the Binibining Manolo Fortich FB page)

Krista Pitao, representing Dicklum and Lingion. (Photo courtesy of the Binibining Manolo Fortich FB page)

Now open at 33 malls nationwide from 7:00

to 2:00 p.m., the SM Sunday Market has begun to offer fresh produce and fruits in season, flowers and plants grown by local farmers. (SM Malls)

The Sunken Cemetery in Camiguin. (Photo courtesy of the Camiguin Tourism Office FB page)