THE MINDANAO TODAY APRIL 21-22, 2023

DENR-10 calls for local green drives

By Uriel Quilinguing Contributing Editor

TO declare a climate emergency or not is the prerogative of the local governments, an official of the Department of Environ-

ment and Natural Resources-10 said on Wednesday, April 19.

Lawyer Ban Mikhael Pacuribot, DENR-10 legal office chief, said this in a forum at the SM City CDO Uptown mall in Cagayan de Oro,

when asked if local governments should place their localities under a state of climate emergency.

“That is their prerogative,” said Pacuribot, but vowed to take the issue of climate emergency declara-

tion in a proper forum.

This, he said, must be based on impact assessments of climate change.

Climate emergency is a situation in which urgent actions are required to reduce

Carmen vendors urges Uy for more favorable location

SEVERAL sidewalk vendors selling their wares outside the Carmen public market were happy after the city government planned to organize them, but some of the merchants were humbly asking City Mayor Rolando Uy to provide a location that won’t affect their income.

Jaypee Abelano, one of the sidewalk

Thursday,

Oro fisherfolk call ‘fish list’ a

By Franck Dick Rosete Correspondent

THE local fisherfolk in this city raised concern over the burden they experienced

with the required submission of their journal, which contained the data of the kind of fish they caught, sold, and consumed, among others, as required

burden

System for Basic Sector in Agriculture (RSBSA).

Councilor James Judith II, in a meeting led by the city council’s committee on agriculture on Tuesday, April 18,

presented his special report, relaying the concerns of the local fishermen that the supposed monthly reporting of data has become daily.

Personnel from the RTA carry the confiscated products from the sidewalk vendors in Cogon, Cagayan de Oro City, after they continued selling their goods outside the implemented schedule. (File photo courtesy of the Cagayan de Oro City Information Office).

by the Registry

Cagayan de Oro Mayor Rolando Uy (3rd from left, front row) and Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez (2nd from right, front row) lead the capsule-laying ceremony for the proposed Operation Kahusay ug Kalinaw center

April 20. With them are some of the members of the city council. (Photo courtesy of Kim Zaldivar | Cagayan de Oro City Information Office)

sellers along

Fri-Sat, April 21-22, 2023

Cop, 12 others nabbed in MagNor anti-drug ops

SULTAN KUDARAT, Maguindanao del Norte – A police officer and 12 others were arrested during separate anti-drug operations in this town, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM) said Thursday.

Asnawi Salik, PDEAMaguindanao operations officer, said two drug dens were also dismantled during the series of operations Wednesday.

In one of the operations, Salik said PDEA operatives caught Master Sgt. Sarip Mastura of the BARMM police force and seven other suspects during a 5 p.m. buy-bust at a drug den in Barangay Salimbao here.

Salik identified those arrested with Mastura as Kasumi Quindapa, Esmael Macalbas, Sam Sandakan, Michael Compaña, Jamil Macalimbol and Tato Madin.

“One of the suspects managed to elude arrest,” Salik said in a statement, referring to a certain Saheiden Utto who managed to escape after sensing the approaching lawmen.

Seized from them were an undetermined amount of suspected shabu, a Glock pistol with ammunition, and shabu paraphernalia.

Some four hours later, PDEA agents also arrested five suspects inside a suspected drug den in Barangay Tamontaka of the same town. (Edwin Fernandez | PNA)

Maguindanao power firm exec slain in gun attack

By Edwin Fernandez

– A Maguindanao Electric Cooperative (Magelco) official was killed in an ambush by still unidentified

gunmen along the diversion road here at past 1 p.m. Wednesday.

Maj. Reggie Albellera, municipal police station chief, identified the victim as Alhassan Maongco, a manager of Magelco’s institutional services department.

Albellera said the victim was on his car on the way home from a midday prayer at a mosque when waylaid by the gunmen along the diversion road in Barangay Upper Capiton.

Staff Sgt. Jhemin Untong, the municipal police investigator, said the victim’s car hit a tree after the

Arrest of foreigners involved in lewd acts in Siargao lauded

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – Mayor

Sol Matugas of General Luna town in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte on Wednesday acknowledged the police for arresting four foreign nationals recently involved in a public display of "lewd and obscene acts."

“We welcome everyone into our beautiful island of Siargao, and here in General Luna but we do not tolerate lewd, lustful, and scandalous acts in public, especially in the presence of children,” Matugas said in a statement on Wednesday.

In a report, the General Luna Municipal Police Station (GLMPS) said

their attention was called after a resort owner and his guests complained of the scandalous acts of the foreigners in their presence, with their children watching.

GLMPS chief Capt. Alex Ceris said the incident took place at 12:30 a.m. on April 16 when foreign nationals – two men and two women –entered the Sunset Bar of the Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa without any permission from the management.

According to the police report, the foreigners "performed lewd, lustful acts" inside the bar, witnessed by the resort guests, including minors.

(PNA)

Drug trade in Sox classified as small scale: PDEA-12

ambush.

Maongco is the younger brother of former Magelco former general manager Ashary Maongco.

The victim had just celebrated his 50th birthday on Sunday, April 16.

Albellera said investigation is ongoing.

The vehicle driven by Maguindanao Electric Cooperative department head Alhassan Maongco crashes into a tree following an ambush by still unidentified gunmen on Wednesday (April 19, 2023) in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte. (PNA)

Dinagat

residents get P700K cash aid from DSWD

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – At least 233

residents from various towns of Dinagat Islands province benefited from a daylong payout program from the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Caraga Region’s (DSWD-13) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program Tuesday.

In a statement Wednesday, the provincial government said it joined the DSWD-13 during the payout that took place in San Jose town of the province.

A total of P699,000 aid were released during the activity where each of the

beneficiaries got P3,000 cash assistance.

“The release of the cash aid aims to sustain the needs of the poor and vulnerable residents of the province, whose welfare is among the concerns of the provincial government under the leadership of Gov. Nilo Demerey Jr.,” the provincial government said.

Meanwhile, the provincial government also announced Wednesday the start of the cash-for-work program for the planting of tiger grass in the municipality of Libjo.

The tiger grass is utilized to make soft brooms, a local industry that provides additional income for the residents in the area. (PNA)

(Photo courtesy of Dinagat Islands PIO)

By Oliver Ross Rivera

KORONADAL CITY –

Drug trafficking in the Soccsksargen region is classified as small scale and mostly street-level, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 12 reported.

Aileen Lovitos, PDEA 12 regional director said the mode of transactions are frequently made through sale or ‘kaliwaan’ scheme or by way of online platforms.

Delivery is made personally using private vehicles, or parcel, or utilization of drug dens, cheap motels, or inns, the official added.

Lovitos said they have already intensified the enforcement and intelligence monitoring, in partnership with the Philippine National Police and other law

enforcement agencies to thwart these illegal activities.

PDEA also calls for continuing strong partnership among local government units, national government agencies and other stakeholders in sustaining the low prevalence of illegal drugs in the region.

As part of the demand reduction efforts, PDEA has also spearheaded the implementation of the Balay Silangan Reformation Program, which serves as an instrument for goverment to reform and reintegrate drug offenders.

Since its inauguration in 2018, PDEA has established 9 Balay Silangan Reformation Centers region-wide, which produced a total of 232 graduates. (PIA-12)

Probe body created in the murder of exec

By Edwin Fernandez

COTABATO CITY – Police authorities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) created Wednesday a special body to probe the recent murder of a councilor in Datu Salibo town, Maguindanao del Sur province.

Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza, BARMM police regional director, said he activated

the regional-level Special Investigation Task Group to look into the shooting of municipal councilor Demson Dagloc Silongan on Monday.

Silongan, 50, was shot by a gunman as his vehicle arrived at the municipal government compound. He died on the spot from multiple gunshot wounds. His driver, Jam Madzig, was injured and is undergoing medication. (PNA)

Anti-narcotic agents raid Wednesday, April 19, a suspected drug den.

(Photo courtesy of PDEA-BARMM)

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao del Norte

The victim died on the spot. (Photo courtesy of Mustapha Kasim of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte)

At least 233 residents from the different towns of Dinagat Islands receive cash aid Tuesday, April 18.

DOLE-10 CDOFO, World Vision Foundation Inc. intensify multi-sectoral efforts against child labor

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The City of Golden Friendship is one of the pilot cities in the implementation of the World Vision’s Project Against Child Exploitation (Project ACE) along with the three barangay governments.

Cagayan de Oro was this year’s host for the regional partners review and assessment at Chali Resort, Cugman, this city, on March 29-31.

The three-day event aimed to determine milestones from the 2022 joint call to action statements and sustainability roadmap.

With reports from DOLENational Capital Region, LGU-Quezon City, Philippine Chamber of Commerce, DOLE-10, LGU Cagayan de Oro City, DSWD-10, NEDA-10, PNP ACU-10, and CSWD among many other participating organizations and agencies.

Currently, the crusade in curbing Worst Forms of Child Labor (WCFL) and Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) with the collaborative initiative of authorities and organizations from both the private and public sectors have gained momentum.

For Cagayan de Oro City, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-10) spearheaded by Regional Director Albert Gutib was proud to report that the region, through Cagayan de Oro Field Office led by Provincial Director Emmanuel Toledo has been very proactive in their implementation of the Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program (CLPEP) whose parents of profiled child laborers were given livelihood assistance and emergency employment

under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program – who are now actively attending their different business enterprises.

In addition, DOLE-10 CDO FO will be releasing P30,000.00 worth of individual starter kits to 100 parents of child laborer (PCL) as a long-term, profitable solution to prevent their children from repetitively engaging in hazardous age-inappropriate labor.

Through a sustainable livelihood, their parents will be able to elevate their economic circumstances without compromising the growth and education of these profiled children.

As Toledo has recounted, there will always be cases of child labor and exploitation as long as poverty prevails.

As an organization that also champions for the wel-

fare of children’s rights, in convergence and partnership with Project ACE partners, the call for organiza-

tions to be educated and converged at the forefront in order to combat evolving forms of exploitation among

children only gets stronger — now that there are visible results from initial efforts.

(DOLE-10)

DOH-10 calls for support in new measles-rubella vax campaign

By Glacetene Kayl Daba CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The Department of Health Center for Health and Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM) called for multi-sectoral support in its resurgence of supplemental immunization vaccinations to combat measles, rubella, and polio infection among 0-59 month old children during the DOH Konsultayo series, held at SM City CDO Uptown here on April 14.

attend family gatherings. Maybe that’s why the cases are rising since measles is very contagious. If you have a cough or cold, the droplets from the saliva can transmit the disease,” said Dr. Angeli Caguioa, DOH-10 medical officer.

From May 2 to May 31, 2023, the department will hold a measles-rubella supplemental immunization activity.

The DOH-CHDNM urges LGUs and all stakeholders to take part and support its its measles-rubella supplemental immunization. (TAAG | PIA-10)

“Measles is not dependent on the weather or climate, maybe because the children usually go out during the summer to play and

They also aim to vaccinate about 500,000 children around the region in order to prevent an outbreak from happening and achieve herd immunity against the virus.

“In this campaign, there are three strategies: a house-

to-house [visit], meaning the healthcare workers will conduct a house visit and knock on doors. The second strategy is the fixed post. The fixed post is where they’ll announce, for example, in the health centers or public and private clinics. And then the temporary posts, same with the COVID-19 vaccinations in the covered courts, checkpoints, and malls,” said Sherrace Brigolo, regional coordinator of expanded program on immunization.

If not treated properly, these diseases may result in certain complications in the future, such as swelling in the brain or encephalitis

from measles, and rubella may cause congenital birth defects in pregnant women. According to statistics provided by the DOH, there have been 64 cases of measles recorded in Region 10 from January to April, with Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, and Cagayan de Oro ranking as its top three hub spots.

The department encouraged local governments and partner organizations to join in eradicating vaccine hesitancy and information dissemination campaigns to prevent measles, rubella, and polio outbreaks. (GKND | PIA-10)

RPOC-10 kicks off 1st QM via F2F, intensifies link among partners

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The Regional Peace and Order Council-10 (RPOC10) kicked off its first full quarter of meeting faceto-face – the first physical meeting conducted since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The activity started with the oath-taking Brig. Gen. Lawrence Coop, PNP-regional director, as the newly installed vice chairperson of the RPOC, who took an oath before Director Wilhelm Suyko of the DILG-10, and Camiguin Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo, RPOC chairperson.

The RPOC took up a full agenda, among which are presentations from the

members of the Special Action Committees (SACs) highlighting their respective areas of concern and plans for CY 2023.

Romualdo expressed that the council will be strengthened with support from partner agencies and the local government units. Moreover, he looks forward to working with the council in CY 2023–2025.

Boost to peace efforts

The DILG, as the head secretariat of the council, seeks to assist the chairperson in the conduct of meetings and sessions as well as the provision of technical and administrative assistance in the performance of

the RPOC.

Meanwhile, Suyko presented the resolutions on the reorganization of the RPOC, the composition of the SAC, the composition of the RPOC-10, and the schedule of the quarterly meetings, among others.

With the occurrence of cybercrime issues in the region, Suyko also suggested including the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) as one of the members of the SAC on anti-crime, which was duly seconded by Misamis Oriental Gov. Peter Unabia.

For her part, Yvette Tolentino-Sunga, DILG-10 assistant regional director, representing Suyko, dis -

cussed the Retooled Community Support Program in 17 target barangays in Northern Mindanao.

The meeting also served as a platform for the members of the SAC to thresh out issues and concerns arising from their respective calls of duty, determine possible solutions, and arrive at a collective decision.

In attendance were the SAC members, which include Public Safety, AntiCriminality, Anti-Insurgency, and Violent Extremism, and the Regional InterAgency Taskforce on Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP). (DILG-10 | PIA-10)

The RPOC-10 kicks off its first full quarter of meeting face-to-face –the first physical meeting conducted since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. (DILG-10)

Fri-Sat, April 21-22, 2023

OROMIND PUBLISHING INC. Publisher

GERRY J. CAÑO, PHD President

MARJUNE MILLIONES VP for Administration

JOHN M. DEL BANDO VP for Operations

LANI M. VALLIDO VP for Sales and Marketing

JOHN M. DEL BANDO Editor-in-Chief

JIGGER JERUSALEM Associate Editor

Jack Biantan sports editor

Franck Dick Rosete Correspondent

URIEL QUILINGUING Editorial Consultant

Domingo J. Marron Jr. Social Media

Jack Biantan Marketing Manager for mindanao

Sugar maandig MITZILIE P. ANGA Account Executives for mindanao

MAHVIC C. NATIVIDAD

RUBY M. AGUSTIN Account Executives

johnny talipan lumod Lay-out Artist

Noel Armodia Production Head

ATTY. RAMIL G. GABAO

ATTY. EDDIE C. CUARESMA

ATTY. MARINEL JUNE S. PALER Legal

UNIT 818, CITYLAND HERRERA TOWER, VA RUFINO COR

VALERO ST. SALCEDO VILLAGE

MAKATI CITY 1227

Manila Office

2F CONSORTIUM BLDG. CORRALES EXT. CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY 9000

Mobile #: 0905 088 4778

0961 688 4888 Head Office

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

(1st of 3 parts)

THE first hermeneutic key of Pope Francis’ papacy is “mercy.”

His homilies and speeches are replete with these words: “A little bit of mercy can make the world less cold and more just.”

“God’s mercy can make even the driest land become a garden, can restore life to dry bones.”

“Let the church be always a place of mercy and hope where everyone is welcomed, loved and forgiven.”

What gives unity to all these statements that merely appear like “quotable quotes”? “Mercy” did not have a good press in modern popular consciousness.

On the one hand, it is seen as mere sentimental feeling, affective but not effective. On the other hand, mercy also is also reduced to “acts of charity” – effective but lacking in affect.

Beyond this binary, let us explore the theological vision that underlies Pope Francis’ discourse.

First, mercy is the definition of God. Pope Francis once published a book entitled: “The name of God is mercy.”

To quote the Latin American theologian, Jon Sobrino: “In the beginning was mercy.”

If the Gospel of John tells us that “in the beginning was the Word,” that Word concretely shows itself in mercy.

This God reveals Godself as one who responds to pain and suffering.

In Exodus, God said “I have seen and witnessed the affliction of my people. I have heard their cry.”

So, he tells Moses: “Go and liberate them.” In the New Testament, mercy is the “visceral love of God” to people who suffer — a feeling that comes from one’s internal organs, from the mother’s womb, from one’s guts.

His guts went out to pain and suffering. Jesus felt this when

he saw the crowd who were “like sheep without a shepherd” (Mark 6: 34); or when he was confronted by the pain of the widow of Nain who lost her son (Luke 7:13). The God who is mercy takes on a face. And his name is Jesus.

Second, if mercy defines God, it should also define our humanity. That is why the story of the Good Samaritan occupies a central place in the theology of Pope Francis.

He does not allow any ambiguity: there are just two kinds of people — you are either the priest/Levite or the Samaritan.

You either pass by or stop and help the man stranded on the road. Fence-sitting and neutrality is not a Christian option.

In the midst of my calls for justice in the War on Drugs in the Philippines, my sisters advised me to just shut up.

Many human rights advocates and church people landed in courts or were killed, some of them were my friends.

My family was worried the same thing would happen to me. To be honest, I am also afraid even until today.

But what else will you do if your parishioners are killed left and right? How can you ever sleep without doing something, anything – whatever?

What would be the meaning of the Eucharist that I celebrate when killings happen around the chapels where we celebrate the Mass? My response defines the meaning of my priesthood.

But even if I am not a priest, my response defines the meaning of my person, of my humanity. (To be continued) (LiCAS. news)

(Editor’s note: This opinion piece, written by Fr. Daniel Franklin Pilario, CM, was first published in the LiCAS.news on April 16, 2023. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS.news editors.)

(1st of 2 parts)

IN today’s readings, we are first given a glimpse by the evangelist Luke of some important aspects of the spirit of early Christian koinonia, lessons from which our present-day Christian communities may learn.

Often translated as “communion” or “fellowship”, koinonia is basically a sustained unity of action in pursuit of aspirations and goals which are mutually beneficial for all, yet is firmly founded upon everyone’s sense of belongingness and commitment to the union; and upon everyone’s sense of responsibility for, as well as solidarity with one another.

Christian koinonia, more particularly, must also demonstrate an unwavering unity in creed, code and cult, “They were faithful to the teaching of the apostles, the common life of sharing, the breaking of bread and the prayers.”

It is initially from the disciplined practice of a communal spirituality, in divine koinonia with the unseen Spirit, that a community is blessed with true happiness and with the interior strength it regularly needs for them to move on with their lives and to continue being together.

“Each day, they met together, in the temple area; they broke bread in their homes; they shared their food, with great joy and simplicity of heart; they praised God and won the people’s favor.”

Thus, it is this unseen Spirit which primarily drives Christian koinonia, “Now all the believers lived together, and shared all their belongings.”

It is also this same unseen Spirit who prompts and directs each “believer” from the living in humility, detachment, simplicity and charity, developed in common prayer, to the movement towards the kingdom’s “aspirations and goals” of social justice and peace, through dutiful actions of and in exhortation of responsible sharing, “They would sell their property, and all they had, and distribute the proceeds to others, according to their need.”

So, it must be critically noted that it is in the “unseen-ness” of the Spirit and its works, more particularly in the raising of the Christ from materiality to immateriality, that Christian koinonia will always be “given a new life, and a living hope.” (To be continued) (LiCAS.news)

(Editor’s note: This opinion piece, written by Bro. Jess Matias, a professed brother of the Secular Franciscan Order, was first published in the LiCAS. news on April 16, 2023. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS.news editors.)

Childhood aggression rooted in malnutrition and peer groups

his maternal aunt and uncle. They beat and whipped him frequently.

(1st of 3 parts)

THE six-year old boy in Virginia, USA went to school as millions do every day but he was different. He had a tendency of violent behavior.

He bullied other children, picked fights, kicked others and was unruly in the classroom.

This day, he reached into his backpack, took out a gun and fired three shots at his teacher. She was seriously wounded but survived.

Pedro, an 11-year old Filipino boy was sent by his impoverished, widowed mother with five children to stay with

The bruises and scars on his body is evidence of that cruel abuse. He was referred to the Preda Home for Boys as a very underweight, sad, depressed and confused child. He was holding in feelings of hurt and pain, anger and resentment. He was a boy against the world.

He was stressed and tense and, with the slightest provocation by another boy, he would fly into a rage and attack this tormenter with kicks, blows, cursing and punching. The aggressive violent behavior was shocking.

At the Preda Home for Boys, he had Emotional Release Therapy and released his anger and pain in the therapy room and he recovered.

He became calm and grew in maturity and self-confidence. He found the courage to file a criminal case against his aunt.

The aunt was arrested and posted bail. Soon, she will be arraigned and the case will come to trial.

Maria, 15 years old, lived with her nine brothers and sisters and a grandmother, a scavenger in extreme poverty. They lived in a cramped 15-square meter shack in a slum in Pasig. Maria went on the streets to beg for food and was sexually abused and raped by neighborhood men.

She became depressed and hopeless and turned to selling herself for money.

(To be continued) (LiCAS.news)

(Editor’s note: This opinion piece, written by Irish Columban priest Shay Cullen, was first published in the LiCAS.news on April 17, 2023. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS.news editors.)

‘Go rebuild my house’

‘Unseen-ness’

MisOr PMSMED Council to strengthen support for FDA approval of products

By Vincent Philip Bautista

MISAMIS ORIENTAL –

The Misamis Oriental Provincial Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Council (PMSMEDC), spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Misamis Oriental and the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce (Oro Chamber), held its 2023 first quarter

meeting to discuss and harmonize its priority projects for 2023 at the Mallberry Suites in Cagayan de Oro on March 12.

The meeting tackled ways to bolster support for enterprises by fast-tracking Food and Drug Authority (FDA) approval of its products and promoting advocacy among small businesses to utilize bank loans and loan literacy.

Raymundo Talimio Jr., Oro Chamber president, underscored the importance of capacitating business owners to adhere to national and international regulations in order to have access to a broader market.

Talimio urged the local governments Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental to create a shared service laboratory for MSMEs to accelerate FDA accreditation

and make product laboratory testing more accessible in the province.

For their part, Almer Masillones, DTI-Misamis Oriental provincial director, assured MSMEs that they would continue to provide access to financing from both government and private financing institutions for setting up or expanding their businesses. (VPSB | PIA-10 | Misamis Oriental)

Inflation rate in Camiguin slowed down to 8.6%

CAMIGUIN – The inflation rate in the province of Camiguin slowed down to 8.6 percent in March 2023 from 9.3 percent in February 2023.

The said subprojects are funded under the additional financing 2-European Union. (DA-10)

Four IBUILD subprojects to rise in LDN town

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project 10 (DA-PRDP 10) conducted a preconstruction conference to the municipal government of Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte for the construction of four subprojects under the IBUILD component.

Two of the subprojects include the construction of a warehouse with multipurpose drying pavement (MPDP) in barangays Suso and Mahayahay with a contract cost of P10,030,844.79 and P9,606,237.39, respectively.

The other subprojects include the construction of a warehouse and solar dryer with MPDP in barangay Kahayagan with an amount of P9,734,873.30 and the construction of a warehouse

and solar dryer in barangay Bansarvil with a cost of P9,526,149.19.

The said subprojects are funded under the additional financing 2-European Union (AF2-EU) which will be beneficial to coconut, corn, and rice farmers of the said area.

Carlene Collado, DA10 OIC-regional executive director and DA-PRDP 10 project director, said that attendance at the pre-construction conference, especially among officials of the barangay, is important in order to level off with all stakeholders involved with the PRDP guidelines in the SP implementation.

He also emphasized that the conference can also be a venue to identify and address potential concerns in the implementation of the SPs. (CRS | DA-10)

Inflation during the first three months of the year averaged 9.0 percent.

The inflation rate in the province of Camiguin remained the highest in the Northern Mindanao region. The province of Lanao del Norte follows, even though it exhibited a lower annual increment in March 2023 at 6.1 percent, down from 8.4 percent in February 2023.

Meanwhile, the provinces of Bukidnon and Misamis Occidental retained their February 2023 reported inflation rates in March 2023 at 8.5 percent and 7.6 percent, respectively.

On the other hand, the province of Misamis Oriental recorded an inflation rate of 8.3 percent in March 2023, up from 8.2 percent in February 2023, an increase of 0.1 percentage points.

The slower inflation in Camiguin for the month of March was mainly brought about by the lower hike on the year-on-year growth in

the index of food and nonalcoholic beverages at 11.7 percent from 12.8 percent in February 2023, or a 1.1 percentage point difference.

In addition, slower annual increases were observed in the indices of the following commodity groups in March 2023: clothing and footwear, 3.2 percent; furnishings, household equipment, and routine maintenance of the house, 2.4 percent; health, 1.4 percent; transport, 4.9 percent; and recreation, sports, and culture, 4.9 percent.

On the other hand, higher annual hikes were noted in the indices for alcoholic beverages and tobacco at 11.2 percent, housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels at 7.2 percent, and restaurants and accommodation services at 18.5 percent.

The indices of information and communication, education services, personal care, and miscellaneous goods and services had retained their recorded rates in February 2023 for March 2023 at 0.1 percent, 1.1 percent, and 5.8 percent, respectively, while the financial services index recorded a zero percent annual inflation rate.

The observed slower annual growth rate of the food index in March 2023 was primarily caused by the lower annual increments in the following food commodity groups: cereals at 5.5 percent, rice at 5.5 percent, and flour, bread and other bakery products, pasta products, and other cereals at 11.1 percent, down from 6.5 percent, 6.5 percent, and 11.6 percent respectively in February 2023.

Also, the following food and non-alcoholic beverage indices registered slower annual increases during the month of March 2023: fish and other seafood (4.4%), oils and fats (9.0%), vegetables, tubers, cooking bananas, and pulses (19.4%), sugar, confectionery, and desserts (33.6%), and ready-made food and other food products not elsewhere classified (4.0%).

The following food group indices, on the other hand, recorded an increase in March 2023: Meat and other parts of slaughtered land animals, 20.1 percent; milk and other daily products and eggs, 20.1 percent; and fruits and nuts, 9.3 percent. (PSA Camiguin

DOLE-10, PESO engage Oro contractors in manpower, construction industry

CAGAYAN DE ORO –

“You are here because you are our valued clients and key partners in job generation for the Kagayanon people.”

This was the pronouncement of Emmanuel Toledo, Department of Labor and Employment-10 (DOLE-10)

Cagayan de Oro City Field Office (CDO FO) provincial director, during the 2023 employers’ forum with the contractors in manpower and construction industry on at the Deluxe Hotel, this city, on March 29.

The forum aimed to strengthen and enhance employer-employee relationship especially in this industry and the relation-

ship between businesses and DOLE in terms of employment and compliance with labor law and social legislations.

Over 40 employers attended the forum where they were able to receive up-to-date information on General Labor Standards, Occupational Safety and Health Standards, Discussion on Construction Safety and Health Program (CSHP)

Certification, Salient Features of Department Order No. 174 series of 2017, Introduction to Employees ‘Compensation Commission (ECC) and Salient Features of R.A. No. 9321.

Various queries were raised during the activity

with the active participation of the attendees and eagerness to understand the intricacies of ensuring their employees’ rights and welfare – the main objective that the DOLE-10 CDO FO hoped to attain in the span of a whole-day event.

The DOLE-10 CDO FO works in harmony with the stakeholders in the enforcement of labor laws, department orders and guidelines, maintaining linkages with the private business sectors and employers, and keeping involved parties guided and well-informed. These ensure that workers are respected, healthy, safe, protected, and well-compensated. (DOLE-10) The

| PIA-10 | Camiguin)

Raymundo Talimio, Jr., Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce President. (VPSB | PIA-10)

forum aims to strengthen and enhance employer-employee relationship. (DOLE-10)

BARMM and UN partners’ new project to bolster inclusive, gender-responsive policy

MARAWI CITY – With the support of Global Affairs Canada (GAC), the Bangsamoro Government, United Nations Women, and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) recently launched the "UN Joint Programme: Empow-

ering Women for Sustainable Peace in BARMM" to strengthen inclusive, gender-responsive policy and programming on conflict prevention and resolution by government institutions in the region.

The project also aims

to foster meaningful participation and leadership in conflict prevention and resolution and the peacehumanitarian nexus, which includes women peace mediators and women's organizations in the BARMM.

Head of Cooperation of the Embassy of Canada to the Philippines, John Lok, Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority Director General, Engr. Mohajirin Ali, and Bangsamoro Women Commission Chairperson, Bainon Karon, unveiled the logo that signifies "Para sa Kababaihan" and the symbolic signing of a tarpaulin to officially open the UN Joint Program.

With them are Lawyer Sha Elijah Dumama-Alba, Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission Lawyer Abdul Rashid Kalim, Minister of

Budget, Finance, and Management Lawyer Ubaida Pacasem, representatives from the Development Academy of the Bangsamoro Guiamel Nalg, Peace, Security, and Reconciliation Office Executive Director Anwar Alamada, and from UN partners: UNDP Head of Cotabato Field Office Winston Aylmer Camarinas, Lead ASEAN Governance, Peace, and Security-UN Women Ryce Chanchai.

Lok said Canada has been a strong international advocate for women, peace, and security agenda.

“Canada recognizes the historic and beautiful achievements of the Bangsamoro peace process in recent years—it is a testament to see all parties bring lasting peace and sustainable development to the re-

gion,” said Lok, noting that this program’s goal is to help the women and girls impacted by conflict and is also committed to supporting the regional government.

Meanwhile, the Regional Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (RAPWPS) was approved on finalization at the Bangsamoro Gender and Development Special Committee (BGADSC) Regular Meeting held on the same day.

Karon emphasized that one of the most important policies in BARMM is the Regional Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security.

The RAPWPS 2023-2028 is now approved and has been instrumental in ensuring and addressing the vulnerabilities of women impacted by conflict in the

BARMM.

“The BARMM has been innovative in its WPS work among the global peacebuilding communities,” she added.

It will be implemented in cooperation with the Bangsamoro Women Commission, the Ministry of Interior Local Government, the Ministry of Public Order and Safety, the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission, BARMM local government units, and civil society organizations and non-government organizations in BARMM, particularly those with representatives included in the Women Insider Mediators-Rapid Action and Mobilization Platform, the Women Speakers Bureau, and other partners. (BIO | PIA-10 | Lanao del Sur)

2nd Mech Brigade highlights peace efforts

By Lou Ellen Antonio

ILIGAN CITY – Brig. Gen.

Rey Alemania relinquished duties as the commander of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry (Magbalantay) Brigade to Colonel Charlemagne Batayola Jr., acting brigade commander, during the change of command ceremony here on April 12.

Alemania will be designated as the deputy chief of staff for logistics for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

He also recalled his assumption of duty and thanked the previous commanders, who built good relationships with various stakeholders and gained thrust confidence in pursuing peace agreements with

the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. He said it helped him start easier and sustain peace in his area of responsibility during his two-year stint.

Alemania also highlighted the harmonization efforts of government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and stakeholders in Lanao del Norte towards the transformation of the NorthWestern Mindanao Front of MILF, located in the towns of Munai, Tagoloan, and Tangcal.

“This was where I took off in finding ways of bringing it to a different level. As a starting point, we were able to focus on transforming communities toward nation-building. Dito na lumabas ang aming nakita

na Camp Bilal Transformation Plan [This is where the plan originated]. I’m also the government-side coordinator to transform our former MILF combatants to become productive in their communities,” he said.

With the harmonization strategy, the community transformation program will be integrated into the programs of LGUs. He emphasized that the program would be successfully implemented with the support of LGUs.

Meanwhile, Batayola reaffirmed his commitment that they will continue to sustain peace in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte province, and seven municipalities in Misamis Oriental.

“Rest assured that we will continue providing the

services we do, like securing the land, properties, and people. We will intensify our work even more with the new leadership. We will continue our peace programs, but we will also be more sensitive to the

requirements of our stakeholders,” he said.

Maj. Gen. Facundo Palafox IV, armor division commander, presided over the change of command ceremony.

According to him, a new

maintenance facility for the armor division will be constructed in the brigade.

“We will be constructing a new maintenance facility within the brigade headquarters to include other peripheral structures will be needed to house the new equipment that will be sent here to be used to ensure 'yung security and safety ng constituents ng Iligan City and Lanao del Norte,” he said.

The Brigade recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Education Iligan City and Lanao del Norte and the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology for the kick-off of the school-based information campaign to transform the youth sector into true patriots and active partners in nation building.

(LELA | PIA-10 | Lanao del Norte)

264 GIPs Misamisnons ready for the world of work

OROQUIETA CITY – Two hundred sixty-four interns under the Department of Labor and Employment-10’s (DOLE-10) Government Internship Program (GIP) attended the orientation at the Asenso Misamis Occidental Sports and Cultural Center, this city on March 23.

Gov. Henry Oaminal graced the event and delivered a message encouraging the young professionals to be competitive and effective interns and role models to their fellow Misamisnons.

Jojo Noriel Ampahan, manager of the Provincial Public Employment Service Office (PESO), emphasized to the GIPs the need to effectively utilizing their abili-

ties for the development of public service.

The interns will be assigned to all local government unit offices in the entire province. They will work for three consecutive months equivalent to a total salary of P26,730.00 each.

“DOLE GIP allocated a total stipend of P7,056,720.00 to allow them to gain experience and exhibit their abilities and talents in the field of public service,” said Ebba Borbon-Acosta, Misamis Occidental provincial director.

She added that the interns must be the best version of themselves and must value the learnings that they will gain during their internship.

The GIP focal person

discussed the guidelines of the program and the General Labor Standards to allow the interns to have a deeper understanding of the pertinent labor and employment issues.

DOLE-10 hopes that the program would motivate interns to pursue careers in the government and industries in the future.

GIP is a component of the government's vast employment initiative aimed at reducing poverty. The initiative intends to create chances for young professionals to serve the public through projects and services of local and national government agencies and offices. (DOLE-10)

Maj. Gen. Facundo Palafox IV (center), division commander, presides over the change of command ceremony. (Angelo Dologmandin | PIA-10 | Lanao del Norte)

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

DENR | from p1 or halt climate change and avoid potentially irreversible environmental damage resulting from it.

The environmental lawyer hinted that such initiative must emanate from the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office as well as from the Committee on Environment in the City Council.

So far, the city governments of Bacolod, Cebu and Makati as well as the municipality of Tolosa, Leyte have declared state of climate emergency in their localities.

Dumaguete City-based Silliman University has also issued the same declaration.

In the same forum, Forester Mercedita Barbarona, DENR10 senior conservation and

CARMEN | from p1

the V. Castro Street who sells fried food items, said he received unverified information from his co-vendors that they would be transferred to a less populated area.

“Kung ugaling ibalhin man lang mi, mas maayo nga unta dili sad maapektohan amo kita (If we were being transferred, it would be better that it shouldn’t also affect our income),” Abelano, who is also a resident of Barangay Carmen, said in an interview on Sunday, April 16.

Abelano has mainly sold chicken “proben” – the proventriculus of a chicken dipped in cornstarch or flour and deepfried – for over five months now, and a location that will be organized by the local government, he said, will actually help them sell their goods peacefully and without fear from the surprise raid by the authorities here.

Apart from asking for a better location for business, another sidewalk vendor also

ORO | from p1

"Sa mga subsistence nga fishermen, dili naman ni trabaho nila. Mura’g para sa ako, lisod (To those subsistence fishermen, this is not their job. For me, it’s hard)," Judith said.

The RSBSA is a registry of farmers, fisherfolk, and farm laborers that serves as a targeting mechanism for the identification of beneficiaries for different agriculture-related programs and services of the government.

Since the monthly submission of data has only been required by the City Agriculture Office (CAO) here, Judith suggested making it every six months.

He added that the tallying of data should also be done for a certain focal person, either from the barangay or the association.

Apart from the struggles with data reporting, the CAO was also asked by the said councilor if they could also amend the order that requires

IMPASUGONG | from p8

The Bull Riding: Involves a rider getting on a large bull and attempting to stay mounted while the bull bucks or jumps upward. The rider must tightly fasten one hand to the bull with a long braided rope. A rider who stays longer atop the bucking bull wins.

development officer, said everybody has been experiencing the extremely hot weather and low water pressure on faucets in recent weeks.

“Everybody wants to stay in airconditioned rooms to avoid dehydration and even heat stroke,” Barbarona said, and that even her ornamental plants at home are wilting even if these are watered in the morning.

She said the national government has invested so much to mitigate the impact of climate change and one of these is the greening program which started 12 years ago, to plant 1.5 million trees in 1.5 million hectares of denuded lands.

Aside from this, DENR-10 has been securing 11 protected areas, consisting of five natural parks, two natural monuments,

asked the local chief executive to allow them to sell their goods at an earlier time just in case the plan to organize the Carmen sidewalk vendors has been fully implemented.

Marisol (not her real name) made the comment referring to the similar implementation of the city government to the street vendors outside Cogon public market where they are only allowed to sell their goods from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m.

“Basin parehason sa Cogon nga alas 6 na magbaligya. Wala naman tao ana (Maybe it’s the same as Cogon that sells at 6 o’clock. There was no one at that time),” Marisol, who also sells chicken “proben,” said in a separate interview on Sunday, stressing that the Carmen area was different compared to the Cogon area, which is the busiest.

Marisol normally starts selling around 10:00 in the morning in preparation for lunchtime, and that is until 7:00 in the evening when the number of people outside Carmen's public market starts to lessen.

the fishermen to renew their licenses every year, as well as their fishing vehicles.

"Nahimo gani sa atong passport, nahimo sa atong lisensya... Nganong lisod-lisuron man nato sila sa duha ka rekisitos (It has been made to our passport, to our [driver’s] license as well... Why do we give a hard time to them as to the two requirements)," Judith said.

Pablo Rojas Jr., head of the CAO’s fisheries division, who was also present during the committee meeting, said they already consulted the fishermen’s concerns and later expressed their favor for amending the monthly data reporting.

To ease the burden on the fishermen, the CAO also contracted people on the ground called the barangay fisheries extension workers for whom the office provides incentives to do the data gathering.

“Gihan-ay pa nato ang pamaagi ana. Dili pa perfect, pero I think mao na ato buhaton moving forward para mas klaro ang information and data

The Calf Ribbon Picking: This is also a timed event where a horse-mounted “muse” (cowgirl) ropes or lassos a calf, leaps from her horse, and picks the ribbons decorated in the calf’s body parts. The fastest performer is proclaimed “Rodeo Queen.”

In harmony with nature

two protected landscapes and seascapes, a protected landscape, and a watershed forest reserve.

“These are our last cards,” said Barbarona because many lands with forest cover had already been converted to other uses, and that everyone must do his share of reducing the destructive effects of climate crisis.

At this time, she said every household could contribute in environmental protection by proper disposal of garbage which for months posed health hazards and sanitation issues in Cagayan de Oro.

Pacuribot said the campaign for greater consciousness of protecting the planet must be on the young, particularly school children.

They, he said, must already

Abelano, on the other hand, patiently sells his fried goods until 10 p.m. to have a better daily income.

In his response, Uy said there was still no proposed area intended for the sidewalk vendors in Carmen, but he wanted to place them in one area.

“Kanang mga sidewalk vendors, sama sa Cogon nga mausa ra sila. So, ang mga suki nila o mamalitay mutultol nalang gyud mismo sa usa ka lugar asa dapit mahimutang ang atong mga sidewalk vendors. (Like Cogon, those sidewalk vendors [in Carmen] can sell in one place. So, their customers will only lead to a place where our sidewalk vendors are located),” Uy said in an interview on Monday, April 17.

As to the selling time request, Uy explained that implementing the 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. schedule would give fair opportunities to others, saying that areas that have been occupied by the sidewalk vendors should also be used, especially by commuters and vehicles

gathering. (We are still finalizing the procedures for that. It’s still not perfect, but I think that’s what we’re going to do moving forward to have clear information and data gathering)," Rojas said. A total of 20 individuals were contracted as barangay fisheries extension workers, of whom six –one worker per two barangays – have been assigned to the 12 coastal areas in the city. Meanwhile, the remaining 14 workers have been assigned to the upland areas.

Councilor Yevonna Yacine Emano echoed the importance of the said journal as a way to determine the situation and aquatic resources available in a particular coastal area.

She supported the required submission of the said journal, but in a way that wouldn’t add additional burden to the local fishermen.

“Benefit sad nato kay maexhaust man ang mga limited resources (it’s for our own benefit because we can exhaust our limited resources),” Emano

Impasugong is a Higaonon term that means “current that flows upstream.”

With numerous waterfalls and springs wholly ideal for bathing and swimming, it has cool temperatures all year long. Its surrounding lush forests and cool blue waters allow you to chill out and relax.

There are countless reasons

know the proper way of disposing biodegradable and nonbiodegradable wastes.

While there has been an ordinance banning the use of specified plastic bags in Cagayan de Oro, but there is none in Misamis Oriental, thus these non-biodegradable and highly-toxic materials find their way into some households in the city, a forum participant observed.

On Saturday, April 22, DENR-10 is spearheading a coastal cleanup – together with other government agencies, civic society groups, and non-governmental organizations – along the coastal areas of Lapasan and Gusa villages in Cagayan de Oro to concretize the region’s Earth Day participation. (MT)

during rush hours.

As of this writing, the chief executive was still waiting for the final count of the sidewalk vendors in Carmen.

On April 11, the City Economic Enterprises and Business Development Administration tallied over 160 sidewalk vendors outside the Carmen public market, specifically in the streets of V. Castro and Ipil. The said office is still continuing with the profiling process.

Abelano also asked the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) to be humane in raiding the sidewalk vendors, as they only wanted to make a living.

He asked RTA to provide a simple warning prior to the actual confiscation while there was still no intended area for the sidewalk vendors.

Marisol echoed Abelano’s comment, but she said that the raid by the authorities under the leadership of Uy was not that brutal compared to the previous administration.

(Franck Dick Rosete| MT)

said.

As to Judith’s concern when it comes to the validity of the fishermen’s license and fishing vehicle, Rojas said they can always amend the renewal requirement since there was no national mandate that strictly required the renewal every year.

However, for the fishing vehicle’s registration, both Emano and Councilor Agapito Suan were in favor of the yearly or just prolonged registration for the security of the fisherfolk.

“I would want that the burden be removed, but I also want to maintain the safety and security of our fisherfolk,” Suan said, suggesting an easier registration process.

At the later part of the meeting, Judith was being asked to provide in written form his recommendations and amendments for the ordinance.

Judith is aiming to finish his recommendations and amendments this week, and a following meeting will be conducted for the ordinance. (MT)

why Higaonons in Impasugong love nature. Find time to come and visit us here.

Before you know it, you will be adding other reasons why this town should naturally be as it is—the home of the country’s finest cowboys. (RLRB | PIA-10 | Bukidnon)

Fri-Sat, April 21-22, 2023

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

Impasugong communal ranch: Haven for nature buffs

and nature buffs.

Go horseback riding

The cowboys, or “vaqueros,” have been honing their skills for generations, passing on their expertise from father to son.

Tourists who want to try horseback riding need not worry, as the cowboys will guide them.

For a fee of 250 pesos per hour, the tourists will be taught how to hold the reins and make the horse walk, trot, or run.

Not only do they teach the tourists how to ride, but

unique and intimate setting.

Pictures captured at the ranch will serve as a reminder of the beauty of nature and the warmth of Filipino hospitality.

They will be a testament to the couples’ affection— captured in a place that has witnessed countless love stories.

Preserving heritage in changing times

Villagers used to herd cattle across long distances. However, since it requires more time and skill, becoming a cowboy was every

cattle farms—aside from pineapple, palm oil trees, and high-value crops—rodeo shows also prospered.

The mayor said the town’s cowboys work actively on ranches, do trail riding, and handle cattle and horses.

"They also compete in rodeos to demonstrate their unique skills in a specially prepared arena. We are inspired and honored as they top in almost all rodeo events," Uy said.

The rodeo challenge

In the annual Kaamulan Festival, rodeo became the most watched sports race.

IMPASUGONG, Bukid -

non – The communal ranch in Impasugong town is the ideal place to go when the hustle and bustle of everyday life start to swarm.

It is hidden in valleys and grassy canyons, with streams and water springs flowing through it.

Perched amidst rolling hills in Capitan Bayong village, about eight kilometers northeast of the town, the ranch has been a legendary place of quietness and peace. This vast, 643-hectare grazing land is a haven for both animals and people. As far as the eye can see, lush green pastures stretch out in the distance, dotted with well-bred cattle and horse grazers. The ranch features a cap-

tivating heart-shaped lake, apart from the mountain backdrop and wildflowers.

It is best for tourists looking for a picture-perfect setting and for couples searching for a place to take prenuptial photos.

A sanctuary

For outdoor enthusiasts, the ranch is a paradise. A place where we can slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the simple things in life.

The forests and nearby hills connected by a network of trails are ideal for trekking and hiking.

You can challenge yourself and push your limits, or take a leisurely stroll and bask in the stunning views. There’s something for everyone.

The town as a whole

and the local government unit both jointly own the ranch, according to Mayor Anthony Uy.

“For a fee of 500 pesos a year, Impasugong residents can benefit from various services, including free vitamins, deworming, breeding, and feeding for their cattle, as well as the privilege to have their cattle cared for in the ranch,” Uy said.

As you stroll along the shore of the mirror-like lake, the towering ridges of Mt. Kulago beckon you to unwind and let go of your worries.

The rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds create a harmonious and serene ambiance, attracting tourists

they also make sure that the tourists are safe and comfortable while riding.

They would check the gears, make sure that the horse is well-fed and hydrated, and give tips on how to handle the horse in case it becomes agitated.

The cowboys take pride in their work as they share stories about the ranch and the town.

Capture memories

For photography enthusiasts, the ranch's sprawling hills and serene lake provide a stunning canvas to capture memories that will last a lifetime.

The ranch serves as the scenery for prenuptial photos for couples looking for a

herder’s dream.

For several decades, the "dreamers" gradually learned to perfectly tend cattle and perform many of their duties on horseback.

The town still has preserved its cultural heritage and ethnic identity, which led Star Cinema to unveil the beauty of Impasugong.

The blockbuster film "Love Me Again," starring Angel Locsin and Piolo Pascual, was shot in the town’s vast grazing land and valleys.

Its colorful mountains, grasslands, rocky canyons, and gorges are all cinematically spectacular.

With the town’s wealth derived predominantly from

Cowboys compete in five rodeo events: breakaway roping, steer wrestling, team roping, bull riding, and calf ribbon picking.

Breakaway Roping: A roper is on horseback with one end of the rope tied to the saddle horn. When the calf is released from the chute, the roper will be in hot pursuit, with the lasso swirling in the air overhead.

When the loop is thrown, it must pass completely over the calf’s head. As the calf pulls away from the rider, the rope grows taut, and the string will break away from the saddle horn. The fastest run wins.

Steer wrestling: This involves strength, speed, and precision. A cowboy on horseback, with an assistant known as a hazer, chases a steer (a neutered bull), drops from the horse to the steer, and then wrestles the steer to the ground, twisting its horns. The fastest cowboy to plunge the bull to the ground wins the race.

The Team Roping: This features a steer and two riders. The first roper is the header," who ropes the front of the steer, usually around the horns or neck. The second is the heeler," who ropes the steer by its hind feet. The fastest performer wins.

Catch the Grand Coronation Night of the Binibining Manolo Fortich 2023 at the municipal gym Friday, April 21 at 6:00 p.m. (Photos courtesy of the Binibining Manolo Fortich FB page | Raymond Saldaña)