THE MINDANAO TODAY MAY 3-4, 2023

GROUP: RECENT INCREASE ‘NOT SUFFICIENT’

New salary hike eyed in NorMin

By Franck Dick Rosete Correspondent

ALABOR group in Northern Mindanao has again expressed their gratitude for the recent wage increase, but they

stressed that it was “not sufficient to give the workers a life of dignity,” considering the spike in the prices of goods due to the high inflation rate.

The Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Con -

gress of the Philippines (ALUTUCP) in region 10 said on Labor Day, May 1, that another wage increase petition is part of its immediate plans, and it is now studying the move by gathering data and facts.

“We are not asking for too much; it’s just for something that is sufficient to give a person sufficient sustenance in terms of their salary,” said lawyer Doris Javier, ALUTUCP Northern Mindanao

MisOr leads in medal race at NMRAA tourney

By Uriel Quilinguing Contributing Editor

filling out application forms during the job fair organized by the Department of Labor and Employment-10 at a mall in Cagayan de Oro during the 121st Labor Day observance Monday, May 1. (Jigger Jerusalem | MT)

AFTER 10 sports were competed upon in the clustered Northern Mindanao Regional Athletic Association (NMRAA) Meet, Misamis Oriental topped the medal tally with 36 golds,

Cash aid for kin of OFW from Bukidnon assured

IN her last press briefing in Malacañang, Sec. Susan Ople of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has already assured financial assistance for the families of the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the ongo-

ing armed conflict in Sudan. This is apart from the $200 worth of financial aid solely for the workers.

In connection, Harry Borres, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration-10 (OWWA-10) regional di -

rector Harry Borres, has confirmed that there is one OFW in Sudan who is a resident of Impasug-ong town in Bukidnon.

The said OFW also requested repatriation amid the ongoing clashes between sol-

diers and paramilitary forces in the conflict-torn African country.

As to the financial aid for the families of the OFW from Bukidnon, Borres said the agency is still “waiting for

Members of a workers’ union from one of the biggest companies in Cagayan de Oro City march along Don Apolinar Velez Street Monday, May 1, as part of the Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP) Northern Mindanao’s activity in celebration of Labor Day. (Photo courtesy of Laurence Geralde | Bombo Radyo Cagayan de Oro)

With their heads down, jobseekers focus on

Wed-Thu, May 3-4, 2023

DOLE-9 releases P43.5M livelihood, employment aid

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Department of Labor and Employment-9 (DOLE-9) has released some P43.5 million worth of livelihood and emergency employment assistance coinciding with the Labor Day celebration in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Engr. Wesley Tan, labor

and employment officer of DOLE-9, said Monday that 80 percent of the P43.5 million was distributed to 9,328 beneficiaries of livelihood and emergency employment assistance in this city.

The 20 percent or more than P8.7 million was released in the provinces of Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Norte and Zam-

boanga del Sur, and Isabela City.

Tan said that 658 of the 9,328 beneficiaries in the city are workers of canning factories and fishing firms who were affected by the three-month closed season for sardine fishing.

“We provide them emergency employment through the Tulong Panghanapbu -

hay para sa Disadvantaged/ Displaced (TUPAD) workers program,” Tan said. “They worked for 10 days and received P351 daily or for a total P3,510 each based on the minimum wage law.”

A number of TUPAD recipients, who requested anonymity, said the short them employment had helped them a lot. (PNA)

of

TUPAD workers program

receives his salary.

12 coops join Labor Day 'Kadiwa ng Pangulo' in Butuan City

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY — At least

12 farmer’s cooperatives and associations from this city and Agusan del Norte joined the Kadiwa ng Pangulo product displays in time with the celebration of the 121st Labor Day on Monday.

Aside from the 12 farmer’s cooperatives, four other farmer’s associations are also displaying their farm products at the Almont Inland Hotel and Resort here, Department of Labor and

Employment in the Caraga Region (DOLE-13) Director Joffrey Suyao told local reporters.

“On display at the Kadiwa ng Pangulo are farm products and produce straight from the farms and sold at lower costs,” Suyao said.

He also thanked the various farmer’s cooperatives for their cooperation during the Kadiwa ng Pangulo display activities and for the celebration of the Labor Day.

Aside from the displays

14 BIFF militants yield in Maguindanao Sur

By Edwin Fernandez

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao Norte – Fourteen members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) operating in Rajah Buayan town, Maguindanao del Sur, have surrendered to military authorities, an Army official here said Thursday.

Brig. Gen. Oriel Pangcog, the Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade commander, said he accepted the surrender of the BIFF batch at the

brigade headquarters in Ampatuan town on Wednesday afternoon.

Rajah Buayan Mayor Bai Maruja Mastura, together with other local officials, presented the surrenderers to Pangcog at the brigade headquarters in Barangay Kamasi, Ampatuan.

“They made the right decision in laying down their guns and abandoning their armed struggle. We welcome them to the fold of the law,” Pangcog said in a statement, referring to the

surrenderers.

The surrenderers yielded assorted firearms, including a homemade sniper rifle, and explosives.

“We are tired, we fear for our lives, so we decided to come out and be with our loved ones,” BIFF subcommander Miranda, one of the surrenderers, said in a separate statement.

As initial assistance, the former rebels received rice and financial assistance from the provincial government. (PNA)

NoCot ARBs get P1.9M modern rice harvester

COTABATO CITY – A group of rice farmers in North Cotabato province is expected to boost its income after receiving a rice-harvesting machine worth P1.9 million from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), officials said Friday.

The initiative forms part of DAR’s Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Program aimed

at reducing the harvesting costs of farmers to increase their income.

Evangeline Bueno, provincial agrarian reform program officer, said the Bagumba Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organization (BARBO) in Midsayap, North Cotabato, received on Thursday the 88 horsepower rice combine harvester with a trailer funded un-

der the Agrarian Reform Fund.

"Rice farmers in the area will no longer worry about harvest losses due to the delays in harvesting their crop because of mechanization,” Bueno said in a statement Friday.

“This will also make them more resilient and adaptive to the effects of climate change as far

as rice farming is concerned."

She added that the provision of the farm equipment would address the labor shortage during harvest season, generate more income for the recipient organization, and generate more savings from harvesting costs for the members. (Edwin

Fernandez | PNA)

of farm products, DOLE-13 is also conducting a job fair offering 3,073 vacancies for jobs eekers all over the region.

“Around 50 employers are also joining during our job fair where they will directly conduct interviews for applicants and instantly hire,” Suyao said. (PNA)

7 NPA rebels yield in Zambo del Sur

ZAMBOANGA CITY –

Seven New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, two of them already in their 60s, have withdrawn support from the communist group as they surrendered to authorities in Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur.

The Area Police Command-Western Mindanao (APC-WM) said in a statement Saturday that the surrender of the seven NPA rebels was the result of the whole-of-nation approach launched by the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC), chaired by Dumingag Mayor Gerry Paglinawan.

The APC-WM identified the seven as Junry Apay Andata, 37; Pablito Sumampon Ayas, 55; Jemy Andata Mariano, 24; Ronel Ayas Andata, 26; Narcisa Antangig Andata, 33; Perino Sumampon Ayas, 65; and Florita Balaas Ayas, 62. (Teofilo Garcia, Jr.| PNA)

The DOLE-13, led by Director Joffrey Suyao (4th from right), opens the 121st Labor Day celebration. (Photo courtesy of Butuan City PIO)

A recipient

emergency employment through the

(left)

(PNA photo by Teofilo P. Garcia Jr.)

The latest batch of 14 BIFF who surrendered to the military in Maguindanao del Sur. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

The P1.9 million rice-harvesting machine from the DAR was turned over to the BARBO in Midsayap. (Photo courtesy of DAR-North Cotabato)

DOH-10 trains first responders in Camiguin via BLS training

2 centenarians receive P300K each

OZAMIZ CITY – Two

centenarians from Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental, received cash incentives in recognition of their remarkable feat of reaching 100 years old.

Pompia Ochagabia Balcita of Barangay Maningcol and Tiburcia Gaid Parojinog of Barangay Molicay, Ozamiz City, each received P300,000 and P100,000 from the national government through the Department of Social Welfare and

Development by virtue of Republic Act No. 10868, or the Centenarian’s Act of 2016, and another P100,000 from Governor Henry S. Oaminal and the Provincial Government.

The City of Ozamiz, under the leadership of Mayor Henry Oaminal Jr., and the members of the Ozamiz City Council headed by Vice Mayor Simplicia Neri, stands committed alongside the national government to give

CAMIGUIN – In times of crisis and emergency situations, the Department of Health-10 (DOH-10) Ambulance and Operations Unit Officers elaborated on the basic life support courses and training being given to various government officials throughout Region 10 during the Alerto radio program on April 25.

With around 39 participants from various disaster risk reduction and management offices in Camiguin, the basic life support core group, trainers, and facilitators intend to impart their knowledge and expertise in basic life support training, April 24-28, 2023, held in Villa Paraiso Apartelle, Camiguin.

“What we’re looking for [in a participant] is number one: knowledge. Number two are the skills, which the training module needs. More skills since that’s what

we need when we’re outside the hospital. Then lastly, which we really put emphasis on, is attitude. The willingness to help others and impart knowledge to the community,” said Amir Hassan, ambulance officer supervisor and basic life support course director.

The BSL officers also highlight the importance of what they call the “Golden Time,” which states that patients should be sent to the hospital as soon as possible before 10 minutes.

“That is what we don’t want in this training, which is why we need to listen, because in this training we cannot have trial and error. For this training, it should be trial and pass, not trial and error,” said Annie Cesar, Camiguin LDDRMO.

Art Darrel Maquiling, DOH-10 health program officer, also said the training aims to cover what to do

in the case of heat stroke, heart attacks, and choking utilizing hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as well as other first aid methods prior to the emergency.

Aside from the first aid insights acquired during the

training, the BLS officers advise everyone to call and immediately ask for help at the emergency call centers or the Camiguin General Hospital hotline at (088) 387-1216. (GKND | PIA-10 | Camiguin)

Limketkai Mall Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City

11. ML- SM Showroom #1105 Masterson Ave. Upper Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City

12. ML- Capistrano Branch Capistrano-Gomez Sts. Cagayan de Oro City

13. ML- Puerto Branch National Hi-way, Puerto, Cagayan de Oro City

14. ML-ALAE Branch

Purok 8, Alae, Puerto, Cagayan de Oro City

15. ML- Bugo Branch National Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City

16. ML- Kauswagan Branch Zone 1 Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City

17. ML- Bulua Branch Southeast Building Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City

18. ML- Opol Branch S. Vacalares St., Opol, Misamis Oriental

19. ML- El Salvador Branch National Hi-way, Misamis Oriental

20. ML- Alubijid Branch Poblacion, Alubijid, Misamis Oriental

21.

ML- Carmen-2 Branc h Kauswagan Road, Cagayan de Oro City

22. ML- Macasandig Branch Macasandig Proper, CDOC

23. ML-Laguindingan Pob. Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental

24. ML-ORORAMA Inside Ororama Supercenter

J.R. Borja Street Cagayan de Oro City, Mis. Or.

25. ML-APOVEL Door # 4B-65 Apovel Subd. Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City

CAGAYAN DE ORO AREA

26. ML-CORRALES Door 3 JMSG Bldg. Corrales St., Cagayan de Oro City

27. ML-CUGMAN #097 Zone 3 Brgy. Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City

28. ML-MAX SUNIEL Max Suniel St., Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City

29. ML-PATAG Zone 3, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City

30.

ML-NHA KAUSWAGAN Door 2 Magtajas Bldg., L15B 38 Zone 5 Bongbongon NHA Kauswagan, CDOC

31. ML-GAISANO PUERTO 3rd Floor Gaisano Puerto Sayre Highway Puerto, CDOC

32. ML-AGUSAN Ryan Vincent Melitante Bldg., National Highway, Agusan, CDOC

33. ML-MACABALAN Luz Siglog Bldg. Piaping Puti Macabalan, CDOC

34. ML-KINASANGHAN RV Bldg. 124 Zone C Stall # 1, Kinasanghan, Iponan, CDOC

35. ML-LUMBIA Ismael Ansin Bldg. Zone 1, Lumbia, CDOC

1. ML-Tagoloan Branch National Highway, Poblacion Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental

2. ML-Villanueva Pob. Villanueva, Misamis Oriental

3. ML-Claveria Pob. Claveria, Misamis Oriental

4. ML-Balingasag Branch 15 de Septembre, Balingasag Misamis Oriental

5. ML-Salay Poblacion Salay, Misamis Oriental

6. ML-Medina South Pob. Medina, Misamis Oriental

7. ML-Gingoog Branch National Hi-way, Gingoog City Misamis Oriental

8. ML-Gingoog 2 Dona Graciana St., Brgy. 20, Gingoog City

9. ML-Camiguin Branch

E. Neri Street, Mambajao Camiguin Province

10. ML-Camiguin 2 Rizal St., Mambajao Camiguin Province

11. ML-Jasa-an Lower Jasa-an, Pob Jasa-an, Misamis Oriental

12. ML-Balingoan National Higway, Bauk-Bauk, Balingo-an, Misamis Oriental

13. ML-SUGBONGCOGON Poblacion, Sugbongcogon Misamis Oriental

14. ML-MAGSAYSAY National Highway Kibungsod, Magsaysay Misamis Oriental

15. ML-MOLUGAN Zone 11, Molugan Misamis Oriental

16. ML-CATARMAN Centro, Poblacion, Catarman Camiguin

17. ML-BALINGASAG HIGHWAY Balingasag Nat’l Highway, Brgy. 4, Balingasag, Mis. Or.

18. ML-TALISAYAN BRANCH P-4, Pob.Talisayan, Mis. Or.

19. ML-GITAGUM Zone 1 Matangad Gitagum, Mis. Oriental

20. ML-BALINGASAG OSMEÑA Osmeña St., Waterfall Balingasag, Mis. Oriental

21. ML-BENONI Benoni Highway Mahinog Camiguin

MISAMIS ORIENTAL TO CAMIGUIN AREA

Commencing on May 15, 2023 at 9:00 A.M. those establishment above will set a public auction all overdue pledges left in the same up to December 2022 . Patrons are enjoined to verify their receipts.

MANAGEMENT

Sa Mayo 15 , 20 23 sa mga alas 9:00 sa buntag ang tanang butang naremati, isubasta diri sa tagsatagsa, nga buhatan nga ginganlan sa itaas. Tanang Butang penerenda nga wala malukat hangtud sa Disyembre 2022 , maapil sa subasta. Giawhag ang tanang suki sa pagsusi sa ilang resibo.

TAGDUMALA

Commencing on May 16, 2023 at 9:00 A.M. those establishment above will set a public auction all overdue pledges in the same up to December 2022 . Patrons are enjoined to verify their receipts.

MANAGEMENT

Sa Mayo 16, 2023 sa mga alas 9:00 sa buntag ang tanang butang naremati, isubasta diri sa tagsatagsa, nga buhatan nga ginganlan sa itaas. Tanang Butang penerenda nga wala malukat hangtud sa Disyembre 2022 , maapil sa subasta. Giawhag ang tanang suki sa pagsusi sa ilang resibo.

TAGDUMALA

Two centenarians from Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental, receive cash incentives amounting to P300,000. (AONC)

Wed-Thu, May 3-4, 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

Want cheaper cost of goods? Unburden domestic shippers

(1st of 2 parts)

FOOD, clothing, shelter materials and other goods are so costly. Blame special groups who make archipelagic shipping expensive.

A vessel recently docked in Batangas to unload wheat from Cagayan de Oro.

Being small, less than 1,000 gross tons, it was supposed to be exempted from harbor pilot fees.

Yet it was charged P24,794. The ship owner naturally passed on that cost to the shipper, who in turn passed it on to customers.

Another ship berthed in Batangas to haul steel rods to Tagbilaran. Also small and exempted, the owner protested the P24,794-pilotage.

It was barred from departing for five days until paying up, plus tenpercent penalty.

Again, that amount was passed on to the shipper; end-users bore the costlier merchandise.

A private group of pilots controls most harbors. The Philippine Ports Authority accredits them to steer and park vessels to and from piers. That’s to avoid ship col-

The naked young man

(1st of 3 parts)

lisions and port damage.

In some cases, harbor pilots do not even board the entering or exiting vessel, but just charge pilotage.

When they do board, they don’t touch the helm but merely direct the shipmaster.

They’re not liable for wrong instructions that lead to accidents. It’s the ship owner or insurer that pays.

Pilots are expected to know every square inch of the harbor. Yet recently in the Visayas the harbor pilot caused the ship to scrape a sunken vessel. The owner spent hundreds of thousands to drydock and repair the hull.

Harbor pilot fees vary port to port, P2,500P5,000 per vessel. But Tacloban, Subic, General Santos, Batangas and Manila are extraordinary, with P10,000P25,000 rates. (To be continued) (LiCAS.news)

(This opinion piece, written by award-winning Filipino journalist and author Jarius Bondoc, was first published in the LiCAS.news website on April 28, 2023. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS. news editors.)

IN Colossians 4:10, that part where St. Paul is about to close his letter, the apostle is mentioning names of fellow disciples who are sending their regards to the community.

Among them he mentions Mark this way, “Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, sends you his greetings.”

He adds a little parenthetical remark that I find very intriguing. He says: “concerning him – meaning, Mark – you have received instructions; if he comes to you, receive him.”

My suspicious mind tells me that Paul must have been worried that Mark might be rejected by the Colossian community if he came for a visit. Why?

We need a little background for this. Mark was that young cousin of the apostle Barnabas who, along with Paul, became part of the first mission team that was dispatched by the Christian community at Antioch in Syria. You read the story in Acts 12:25.

It was not Paul but Barnabas who was acting as team leader for that first mission.

For the planned second mission, we read in Acts 15:37 that Barnabas wanted to keep the same team – meaning, that he wanted his cousin Mark to accompany them again, but Paul vehemently refused.

Why? We find out why in Acts 15:38. I read between the lines and imagine Paul saying,

“With all due respect, Barnabas, I know he’s your cousin, but why will we still take him along, knowing that he had deserted us in Pamphylia, half way through our first mission journey?”

Luke does not explain much. But I have a strong feeling that Mark, at some point during that first mission, became uncomfortable with Paul’s eagerness to baptize Gentile converts.

I imagine him asking his cousin, “Wait, who is the team leader here anyway?” But it looks like Barnabas agreed with Paul.

So I suspect that he left them in order to report to the apostles in Jerusalem about his disagreements with Paul.

Luke also says in v. 39 that the disagreement between Barnabas and Paul over Mark had become so tense that it led to a parting of ways between them.

Luke tells us Barnabas took Mark along anyway, and sailed to Cyprus with him, while Paul led another mission team with Silas as member of the team. In short, they went their separate ways. (To be continued) (LiCAS.news)

(Editor’s note: This opinion piece, written by Bishop Virgilio David of Kalookan, was first published in the LiCAS.news website on April 26, 2023. We are republishing it with permission from the LiCAS.news editors.)

Covering The Maharlika Bridge tragic suicide incidents

and moral failure, and those who took their own lives are often criticized.

general public, they give a detailed description of the incident, which may instigate in the people that committing suicide is accessible and easy.

HI there!

These past weeks, highly publicized suicide cases circulated in every Kagay-anon's social media.

Unfortunately, two miserable deaths, a 17-year senior high school student and another young man jumped to their deaths at the Maharlika Bridge (formerly the Marcos' Bridge).

Then, another unsuccessful suicide attempts to jump off the bridge in just a week interval.

Today, I will not write the history of suicide or the Maharlika Bridge's history. Still, the conspicuous rise of suicide, especially among Cagayan de Oro City youth, is alarming!

Suicide is a multi-faceted incident subject to relentless academic debates, depending on various cultures, and is historically, morally, and spiritually dependent on diverse social and psychological backgrounds.

Traditionally, many traditional societies saw suicide as a spiritual

The philosophical understanding of suicide during the 17th and 18th centuries shifted in understanding suicide as a personal act of ending one's life because of the unbearable, intolerable pain of facing a hopeless predicament; thus, suicide is a personal choice, not a moral or a spiritual crime.

As time and the study of mental health evolved from the 19th century until now, suicide is understood as a medical and public health condition with complex causes such as mental illness, social isolation, and poverty.

Suicide is a significant public health issue, and with cunning reason, the media sensationalize suicide without fully grasping the victim's psychological condition or the social factors behind the tragic act.

Ill-advisedly, there is deliberate coverage of suicide around Cagayan de Oro by many local media outlets, most notably social media.

Ideally, the media's crucial role is to provide access to information and education and promote social change.

However, instead of educating the

A blow-by-blow description of a suicide attempt or an incident can have severe consequences.

Unknowingly, the carelessness contributes to a “ripple or domino effect” because of the exposure to suicidal behavior.

Further, and perhaps unknown to our media practitioners, reporting the details can normalize and patronize the behavior while providing an option for those mentally vulnerable and psychologically struggling.

In short, journalists unethically deliver a harmful influence on vulnerable persons and may increase the risk of suicide among individuals who are already at risk.

Journalists and media practitioners are ethically responsible for reporting sensitive issues like suicide.

Instead of sensationalizing the news, they should provide resources for support and help mentally-prone individuals the risk of committing suicide.

They should put emphasis on seeking professional help for mental health issues. I think, as an educator, here are simple tips that these local media practitioners should inform the public

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

SEC extends deadline for amnesty application

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is extending the deadline for applications for amnesty for late and non-filing of annual financial statements (AFS), general information sheets (GIS), and official email addresses and mobile phone numbers.

Eligible companies now have until June 30 to finish

their amnesty applications. Moreover, applicants now have 90 days, instead of 45 days, from the date of payment to submit their latest due financial statements.

The Commission granted the extension through SEC Memorandum Circular No.

6, Series of 2023, issued on April 25.

The SEC launched the

amnesty program for noncompliant corporations, as well as those whose certificates of registration have been suspended or revoked, for their failure to submit their AFS and GIS on time, in the middle of March through SEC Memorandum Circular No. 2, Series of 2023.

The amnesty program is part of the Commission’s ef-

forts to encourage its supervised entities to comply with their reportorial requirements under Republic Act No. 11232, or the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines.

In turn, the compliance of corporations with their reportorial requirements will allow the SEC to prudently identify active and inactive

Iligan City records lowest inflation rate in March 2023

By Apipa Bagumbaran

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The city of Iligan posted the lowest rate of inflation among the highly urbanized cities and provinces in Northern Mindanao in March 2023.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority-10

(PSA-10), Iligan recorded an inflation rate of 5.8%, a decline of 2.3 percentage points from the 8.1% rate posted in February. The same slowdown was also recorded in Lanao del Norte from 8.4% to 6.1%.

Cagayan de Oro City likewise registered a lower inflation rate in March at

6.5% from the February record of 7.5%.

Only Misamis Oriental posted an increase in inflation in March at 0.1 percentage point, that is, from 8.2% in February to 8.3% in March 2023, said PSA-X Chief Statistical Specialist Sarah Balagbis.

The highest inflation

corporations, enhance and organize its digital database for better monitoring and enforcement, and cultivate a healthy and vibrant corporate sector.

With the number of companies expressing interest to avail of the amnesty program and considering the overlap in the deadlines for the submission of similar

requirements to the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the SEC, the Commission deemed it necessary to allow eligible companies more time to avail of amnesty. After the extended deadline of June 30, an updated scale of fines and penalties for the covered reportorial requirements shall be implemented.

(SEC CDOEO)

rate, on the other hand, was recorded in Camiguin at 8.6%.

Meanwhile, the inflation rate in Bukidnon and Misamis Occidental remained at 8.5% and 7.6%, respectively.

Overall, the regional inflation rate decelerated to 7.4% in March from 8.0% in February. (APB | PIA-10)

BARMM’s Ramadhan trade fair earns P16.9M sales

By Bangsamoro Information Office

MARAWI CITY – The

month-long Bangsamoro Ramadhan Trade Fair 2023, led by the BARMM’s Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism (MTIT), has generated total sales of P16.9 million.

The total revenue of this year’s fair exceeded the target sales pegged at Php12-million, which covers from March 21 up to April 20, 2023, held inside the Bangsamoro Government Center (BGC) in Cotabato

City. Accordingly, about 54 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and more than 20 ambulant vendors generated 200 jobs from exhibitors.

Snooky Gani, Chief of Enterprise and Trade Development Division, said through the Ramadhan Trade Fair, these MSMEs were provided with a venue to showcase, promote, and sell products made by our local entrepreneurs, which also helped increase the revenue.

“The trade is also a way to enable other people from

outside the Bangsamoro region to better perceive and understand diverse cultures working together towards economic recovery and seeking cultural solidarity,” Gani said.

She further stated that the ministry is proud to facilitate such events towards boosting and enhancing the socio-economic situation of Bangsamoro people, saying: “It gives us a strong motivation to pursue efforts such as this to further support MSMEs in the region.”

The exhibitors featured local products such as native delicacies, processed

foods, souvenirs, garments and fashion accessories, and other genuine local products.

Capping off the trade fair was an awarding ceremony which recognized the Most Promising MSME/Entrepreneur and the Best Dressed Booth.

Hassaraff Seafoods & Grill Restaurant, Realuxe Cafe and Al-Diwan Restaurant bagged the Most Promising MSME Award, while K3 Cellphone Accessories Store, Samra’s Maguindeli and Greatea Café won the Best Dressed Booth Award. (BIO/PIA Lanao del Sur)

1. ML SAN FRANCISCO 1 Center Island, Brgy 2, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur

2. ML SAN FRANCISCO 2 Obedoza Street, Brgy 2, San Francisco, Agusan Sur

3. ML BAYUGAN 1 367 Narra Avenue, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur

4. ML BAYUGAN 2 Libres St., Taglatawan, Bayugan City

5. ML BUNAWAN Purok 3, San Teodoro, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur

6. ML STA JOSEFA Purok 7, Poblacion Sta Josefa, Agusan del Sur

7. ML TRENTO Purok 6, Poblacion, Trento, Agusan Sur

8. ML BAROBO Purok 4, Poblacion Barobo, Surigao del Sur

9. ML PROSPERIDAD Purok 4, Poblacion Prosperidad, Agusan Sur

10 . ML GAISANO GRAND P-2A Natl. Highway, Brgy. 5, San Francisco, Agusan Sur

11 . ML TALACOGON P-Bougainvilla, San Agustin, Talacogon, Agusan Sur

12 . ML SAMPAGUITA P4 Luzviminda, Sampaguita, Veruela, Agusan Sur

13 . ML ROSARIO P-Ocite, Sta. Cruz, Roasrio, Agusan Sur

14 ML PATIN-AY BRANCH

Poblacion Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur

15 ML SIBAGAT BRANCH Purok 3, Poblacion Sibagat, Agusan del Sur

16 ML TAGLATAWAN BRANCH

Purok 3, Libres St. Taglatawan, Bayugan City

17 ML ESPERANZA BRANCH

Purok 7, Poblacion Esperanza, Agusan del Sur

18 ML TRENTO POBLACION BRANCH

Purok 3, Poblacion Trento, Agusan del Sur Commencing on May 15, 2023 at 9:00 A.M. those establishment above will set a public auction all overdue pledges left in the same up to December 2022 . Patrons are enjoined to verify their receipts.

MANAGEMENT

Sa Mayo 15, 2023 sa mga alas 9:00 sa buntag ang tanang butang naremati, isubasta diri sa tagsatagsa, nga buhatan nga ginganlan sa itaas. Tanang Butang penerenda nga wala malukat hangtud sa Disyembre 2022 , maapil sa subasta. Giawhag ang tanang suki sa pagsusi sa ilang resibo.

TAGDUMALA

M. LHUILLIER SAN FRANCISCO 1 Center Island, Barangay 2, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur

Tel # 085-3439520 ; Mobile # 09479991801

1. ML MANGAGOY 1 Espiritu Street, Brgy Mangangoy Bislig City, Surigao del Sur

2. ML MANGAGOY 2 Abarca Street, Brgy Mangagoy Bislig City, Surigao del Sur

3. ML MANGAGOY 3 P. Castillo St. cor. Pecasales St. Brgy Mangagoy, Bislig City, Surigao Sur

4. ML BISLIG National Highway, Bislig City Surigao del Sur

5. ML HINATUAN Purok 5, Brgy St. Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur

6 ML LINGIG Purok Marcelo, Verano St.

Tagbina, Surigao del Sur

Commencing on May 16 2023 at 9:00

A.M. those establishment above will set a public auction all overdue pledges left in the same up to December 2022 . Patrons are enjoined to verify their receipts.

MANAGEMENT

Sa Mayo 16, 2023 sa mga alas 9:00 sa buntag ang tanang butang naremati, isubasta diri sa tagsatagsa, nga buhatan nga ginganlan sa itaas. Tanang Butang penerenda nga wala malukat hangtud sa Disyembre

M. LHUILLIER MANGAGOY 2 Abarca Street, Barangay Mangagoy, Mangagoy, Bislig, Surigao del Sur Tel # 086-8531671/3110989/8531670 Mobile # 09479991797

Tandag, Tago, Surigao del Sur

10 ML SAN MIGUEL Pob. Tina, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur

11 ML TANDAG 5 Ground Floor, Gaisano Capital, Brgy. Bag-ong Lungsod, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur

12 ML MARI HATAG National Highway, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur

13 ML CARMEN, SDS National Highway, Pob. Carmen, Surigao del Sur

14 ML LININTIAN CANTILAN No. 53 Ortega St., P-6A Barangay Linintian, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur

15 ML QUIRINO, MADRID

P-3 Nat’l Highway Barangay Quirino Madrid, Surigao del Sur

16 ML MOONGLOW Nat'l Highway Moonglow, Bag-ong Lungsod, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur

Commencing on May 17, 2022 at 9:00

A.M. those establishment above will set a public auction all overdue pledges left in the same up to D ecember 2022 Patrons are enjoined to verify their receipts.

MANAGEMENT

Sa Mayo 17, 2023 sa mga alas 9:00 sa buntag ang tanang butang naremati, isubasta diri sa tagsatagsa, nga buhatan nga ginganlan sa itaas. Tanang Butang penerenda nga wala malukat hangtud sa Disyembre 2022 , maapil sa subasta. Giawhag ang tanang suki sa pagsusi sa ilang resibo.

TAGDUMALA

M. LHUILLIER TANDAG 1 Capitol Road, Telaje, Tandag, Surigao del Sur

Tel # 086-2113145; Mobile # 09479991802

Sarah Balagbis, PSA-10 chief statistical specialist, presents the March 2023 Inflation Report of Northern Mindanao. (Daniel Clark Cabantan | PIA-10)

The month-long Bangsamoro Ramadhan Trade Fair 2023, led by the BARMM’s MTIT, has generated total sales of P16.9 million. (Photo from Michael Camsa | BIO)

May 3-4,

Duterte: Keeping kids in school curbs poverty, lawlessness

MALAYBALAY CITY

–Vice Pres. Sara Duterte-Carpio, who’s also the Department of Education (DepEd) secretary, emphasized the crucial role of education in unlocking potential and opportunities.

Duterte-Carpio, the keynote speaker to cap Bukidnon's month-long Kaamulan Festival on April 22, urged everyone to keep kids in school by focusing on the mantra "education is the key to success."

She explained that education gives individuals the knowledge and skills they

need to succeed in their chosen fields, which could open up a world of opportunities and possibilities that might otherwise be out of reach.

"Kinahanglan magkahiusa kita sa edukasyon sa atong mga anak. Ilayo nato sila sa droga, kriminalidad, ug terrorismo. Siguraduhon nato ang pagprotekta kanila aron makakita pa kita sa ilang malinawon nga kaugmaon dili lang dinhi sa inyong probinsya sa Bukidnon kundili sa tibuok nasud," she said.

(We need to work together to educate our chil-

dren. We must keep them away from drugs, lawlessness, and terrorism. Let's make sure everyone is safe so that anyone can enjoy a peaceful future, not just in your province of Bukidnon but across the whole country)

The vice president was visiting Bukidnon, Davao's neighboring province, to convey Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s message of gratitude for supporting the government's eight-point socioeconomic agenda and witness how the seven tribes dedicate their bounty har-

vests to Magbabaya (deity) through ethnic dances.

In keeping with the theme, One Bukidnon: A Celebration of Unity in Cultural Diversity, the Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Bukidnon, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon, and Umayamnon tribes’ skills in music, art, hand-weaving of mats and fabrics, wood carving, and traditional healing practices, among a wide range of other skills based on their culture and traditions, many of which are unique to their communities, are featured.

(RLRB | PIA-10 | Bukidnon)

GCash Digital Excellence Awards 2023 honors private sector partners

FOR uplifting the lives of Filipinos by giving them access to innovative, safe, and convenient digital finance technology, GCash, the country's leading e-wallet, is recognizing outstanding enterprises and MSMEs through its annual GCash Digital Excellence Awards 2023 held recently at the Grand Hyatt Manila in BGC, Taguig City.

The second GCash Digital Excellence Awards for enterprise honored the hard work and dedication of its partners to help make Filipino lives better every day.

Moreover, it also aims to inspire more public, private, and MSME sectors to continue innovating their services for Filipinos and help transform the country into a more financially inclusive

society.

The ceremony opened with a video message from the president and CEO of Globe Group Ernest L. Cu and was graced with the presence of G-Xchange Inc President and CEO Ren-Ren Reyes, chief technology and operations officer Pebbles Sy, chief marketing officer Neil Trinidad, head of new businesses Winsley Bangit,

chief finance officer Tek Olano, chief people officer Robert Gonzales, Fuse chief finance officer Gabriel Lacuesta, strategy officer Ron Testa, GCash vice president for enterprise Luigi Reyes, vice president and head of wealth management Jong Layug, head of consumer experience Joanne Avendano.

“The new normal brings

P H I L I P P I N E S A Financial Service Company

1. ML- Agusan Canyon Branch Purok Merkado, Agusan Canyon Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon

2. ML- Manolo Fortich Branch Mational Highway, Brgy. Tankulan Manolo Fortich

3. ML-Kisolon Branch Purok 2 Kisolon, Sumilao, Bukidnon

4. ML-Malaybalay 1 Branch Fortich St., Poblacion Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

5. ML-Malaybalay 2 Branch Alvaro, Pabillaran St., Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

6. ML- Malaybalay 3 Branch Fortich St., Brgy. 2 Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

7. ML-Lantapan Branch Public Market, Pob. Lantapan, Bukidnon

8. ML-Cabanglasan Branch Purok 10, Pob. Cabanglasan Bukidnon

Commencing on May 15, 2023 at 9:00 A.M. those establishment above will set a public auction all overdue pledges in the same up to December 2022 . Patrons are enjoined to verify their receipts.

MANAGEMENT

Sa Mayo 15, 2023 sa mga alas 9:00 sa buntag ang tanang butang naremati, isubasta diri sa tagsatagsa, nga buhatan nga ginganlan sa itaas. Tanang Butang penerenda nga wala malukat hangtud sa Disyembre 2022 , maapil sa subasta. Giawhag ang tanang suki sa pagsusi sa ilang resibo.

TAGDUMALA

9. ML-Aglayan Branch Purok 38, Sayre Highway Aglayan, Malaybalay City

10. ML-Valencia 1 Branch G. Lavina Ave., Poblacion Valencia City, Bukidnon

11. ML-Valencia 2 Branch M. Roxas St., Valecia City

12. ML- Valencia 3 Branch Quezon St., Poblacion Valencia City, Bukidnon

13. ML- Valencia 4 Branch Valencia South Highway Valencia City

14. ML-Don Carlos Branch Poblacion Don Carlos, Bukidnon

15. ML-Quezon Bukidnon Branch National Highway, Quezon Bukidnon

16. ML-Maramag Branch Purok 7, Maramag Avenue North Pob. Maramag, Bukidnon

Commencing on May 16, 2023 at 9:00 A.M. those establishment above will set a public auction all overdue pledges in the same up to December 2022 . Patrons are enjoined to verify their receipts.

MANAGEMENT

Sa Mayo 16, 2023 sa mga alas

9:00 sa buntag ang tanang butang naremati, isubasta diri sa tagsatagsa, nga buhatan nga ginganlan sa itaas. Tanang Butang penerenda nga wala malukat hangtud sa Disyembre 2022 , maapil sa subasta. Giawhag ang tanang suki sa pagsusi sa ilang resibo.

TAGDUMALA

17. ML- Pangantucan Branch Rocky Village, Pob. Pangantucan Bukidnon

18. ML-Kalilangan Branch Centra Pob., Kalilangan, Bukidnon

19. ML-Wao Branch Poblacion, Wao, Bukidnon

20. ML-Kadingilan Branch Purok 4, Pob. Kadingilan, Bukidnon

21. ML-Kibawe Branch Sayre Highway cor. Magsaysay St. West Kibawe, Kibawe, Bukidnon

22. ML-Damulog Branch Purok 9 Pob. Damulog, Bukidnon

23. ML- Dangcagan Branch Purok 5 Pob. Dangcagan, Bukidnon

24. ML-San Fernando Purok 6, Halapitan. San Fernando Bukidnon

unique challenges to the economy, especially to the fintech industry. Through the GCash Digital Excellence Awards, we pay tribute to private and public entities for their innovative achievements that span digital transformation, customercentric solutions, business and technology agility, and product and service innovation. We hope that this will serve as an inspiration for our key partners in various sectors to continue to innovate, serve millions and make the lives of Filipinos better every day,” GCash chief commercial officer Ren-Ren Reyes said.

This year’s awardees

were recognized in six different categories.

The Excellence in Innovation award was given to partner industry leaders who have implemented a trailblazing project or initiative and has contributed to partners' digitization efforts leading to better customer experience and has improved overall business efficiency and fasted more convenient transactions to GCash’s 79 million and growing GCash users. These partners are Robinsons Department Store which won 1st place, Villarica Pawnshop Inc., and Max’s Group Inc. which won 2nd and 3rd awards, respectively. (PR | GCash)

Commencing on May 17, 2023 at 9:00 A.M. those establishment above will set a public auction all overdue pledges in the same up to December 2022 . Patrons are enjoined to verify their receipts.

MANAGEMENT

Sa Mayo 17, 2023 sa mga alas 9:00 sa buntag ang tanang butang naremati, isubasta diri sa tagsatagsa, nga buhatan nga ginganlan sa itaas. Tanang Butang penerenda nga wala malukat hangtud sa Disyembre 2022 , maapil sa subasta. Giawhag ang tanang suki sa pagsusi sa ilang resibo.

TAGDUMALA

For inquiries visit our office at M Lhuillier Malaybalay 1 branchFortich Street, Poblacion, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

Puregold Price Club, Inc bags the Partner of the Year Award at the recently concluded GCash Digital Excellence Awards for Enterprise 2023. (Photo supplied)

DENR-10 eyes denuded forest lands reforestation in 2023

By Theresa Arlene Gambe

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-10 (DENR-10) shared their current national and regional environmental initiatives in celebration of Earth Month 2023 with the theme "Invest in Our Planet" during the Talakayan sa PIA at SM Uptown CDO on April 19.

Forrester Mercedita Barbarona, conservation and development division deputy chief of DENR-10, reiterated the department’s goal for the National Greening Program to plant 1.5 billion trees on 1.5 million hectares.

"The reason why we invest in this is that we want to mitigate the impact of climate change, we want to reforest our denuded forest

lands. We want to provide an alternative source of livelihood for the forest community, even in the coastal areas," Barbarona said.

Barbona elaborated that DENR has targets this year for the reforestation of Northern Mindanao’s denuded forest lands.

"In almost all things, humans have been very successful, but perhaps left behind is the protection of the environment. We have sacrificed so much for progress; we have sacrificed the environment in the name of moneymaking. This is why the government wants us to be aware of this," said lawyer Ban Mikhael Pacuribot, DENR-10 legal division chief.

Through Executive Order No. 193, the National Greening Program has been extended up to the year 2028. (TAAG | PIA-10)

Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio emphasizes the power of education. (DCC | PIA-10)

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

SALARY | from p1

OIC-vice president, on Monday.

Javier said she still has no definite date, as of this writing, for the filing of another petition for a wage hike.

It can be recalled that the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-10 (RTWPB-10) approved a P40 increase in the daily minimum wages of non-agricultural workers last year in the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan and the towns of Tagoloan, Villanueva, and Jasaan in Misamis Oriental.

However, the ALU-TUCP region 10’s original wage increase petition was not completely approved, as they petitioned for a more than P40 increase. Now, the current minimum wage here is P405.

Apart from the said matter, the ALU-TUCP 10 also pointed out the implementation of the

MEDAL | from p1

42 silvers, and 39 bronzes, as of Sunday, April 30.

Lanao del Norte with a 27-28-24 medal haul is on second spot, while 2019 NMRAA champion Cagayan de Oro is just three silvers behind with 27-25-32 tally – keeping the regional games’ title uncontested in last three years due to the pandemic.

Twenty-three of Cagayan de Oro’s first-place finishes came over the weekend, as the defending champion salvaged only four golds from Cluster I contests.

But the overall standing of 14 delegations may change this weekend, May 5, 6, and

OFW | from p1 the fund and a copy of the guidelines” from the OWWA central office.

On April 29, officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs, DMW, and OWWA welcomed the first 17 repatriated OFWs from Sudan who initially sought refuge in Athens, Greece, and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

SANCHEZ | from p4

about suicide. These are:

First, media practitioners provide access to information to mental health experts, parish churches, religious sectors, social welfare offices, and non-government organizations whose focus is to educate and prevent mental health concerns.

Second, educate the public, especially in sustaining robust mental health through facilitating a public discourse leading diverse perspectives and opinions and encouraging the general public in suicide awareness and prevention, which is a perplexing social problem.

Lastly, media outlets can be a powerful tool for social

KADIWA | from p8

Manggagawa.”

The “Kadiwa” focuses in helping the labor force, who are the biggest economic contributors of the country, especially on the non-stop increase of prices.

DOLE-10 exhibitors were Lorega Ancestral Management and Development for All Generation, Inc. (LAMDAG) for

P405 minimum wage, calling on the government to address the problem immediately, as it still handles cases of workers who are still receiving below the minimum wage.

“It’s not enough that there’s a law in place if the implementation and enforcement are problematic. Such that there is no adequate penalty given to the violators of the law. Then, employers will continue to violate it,” Javier said.

The labor group called on the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to improve the inspection system for business establishments, suggesting bringing back the involvement of the private sector for transparency.

Estrella Uy-Pahalla, DOLE10 OIC-regional director, said the re-involvement of the private sector in joint inspections with the agency is still being studied, echoing the need for improvement.

7, when Cluster III of competitions, involving 12 more sports, end.

Arnis, billiards, boxing, pencak silat, swimming, taekwondo, and wrestling will be in Camiguin while badminton, baseball, chess, table tennis, and tennis in Gingoog – with 236 gold medals at stake. A total of 149 gold medals been awarded and tallied, so far.

Earlier, athletics, archery, football, futsal, and wushu under Cluster I were played, April 21, 22, and 23 at the Mindanao Convention Center at Tubod town, with Lanao del Norte as host.

Cluster II, which consisted of basketball, dancesports,

Borres, meanwhile, said the OFW was not yet included in the list.

“The name of the worker is not yet on the list of repatriated OFWs from Sudan. Maybe it is still in the [Philippine] embassy in Cairo,” Borres said in a text message on Sunday evening, April 30.

The OWWA-10 director also did not divulge further infor-

change by highlighting education on mental welfare to raise awareness on such an important issue.

There is no generic solution to mental health and suicide, but the media's role is crucial in providing information relating to mental health.

Suppose the cycle of unethical reporting of suicide continues. In that case, they unknowingly help increase suicide rates in Cagayan de Oro City by promoting the normalization of suicidal behavior, especially among the youth.

Nevertheless, suppose the media promotes mental health awareness education and provides resources for support and help those mentally vulnerable; this will lead to a mentally

their Bagtok handicrafts and strawberry jams; Balubal Integrated Social Forestry Farmers Association (BISFFA) for their coffee beans; Tagpuangi Fisherfolks Association (TAGFA) on their Krill sardines; Abaga Muslim Christian Farmers Association (ginger powder/salabat); and San Roque Handmade Paper Products MPC (handmade paper and handmade lampshade paper products).

The agency used to collaborate with the private sector in inspecting business establishments, but the program has been stopped as there were concerns raised about the implementation and the inconsistencies on the part of the DOLE-accredited inspectors from the private sector.

“One of the noted [concerns] is the availability of the accredited partners. If there’s an inspection to be conducted, they may not be available; and some also had their own choosing that they don’t want to go to that establishment because of some reasons, and they want to go to the establishment because of some reasons,” Pahalla said also on Monday, clarifying that the said concerns were observed in other areas in the country.

The need for improvement, Pahalla said, also covers defining the role of the partnered inspectors in the private sector.

gymnastics, sepak takraw, softball, and volleyball, were held April 27, 28, and 29 with Cagayan de Oro, El Salvador and Misamis Oriental as hosts.

Results from dancesports –a demonstration event – were not included in the medal, according to the 2023 NMRAA Secretariat.

Current leader Misamis Oriental was a far first-runner-up in 2019 NMRAA as it trailed by 49 golds and 27 silvers behind Cagayan de Oro who amassed 266 medals then – 114 golds, 79 silvers, and 73 bronzes.

Then fifth-ranked Lanao del Norte posted a 27-29-37 medal collection – a feat she has already been surpassed, after Clusters I and II.

mation about the OFW.

In the said Malacañang press briefing on April 25, Ople said there were 725 OFWs from Sudan who contacted the Philippine Embassy in Cairo, Egypt, 327 of whom requested repatriation as of April 25, and the number could possibly increase.

According to the DFA, as of April 29, a total of 610 Filipinos

healthy citizenry. (MT)

(Ryan Albert Ignacius “RAI” Bollozos Sanchez, 40, is a native of Cagayan de Oro City. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History and currently finishing his Master of Arts in History at Xavier UniversityAteneo de Cagayan. He is currently a full-time faculty in the Department of General Education and Interdisciplinary Studies in Xavier Ateneo – teaching Readings in Philippine History, The Life, Works and Writings of Jose Rizal, and Interdisciplinary Studies subjects. He taught parttime at the Liceo de Cagayan University teaching Southeast Asian History and Government, and U.S. Government and Foreign Policy. You may reach him at rsanchez@xu.edu.ph)

Likewise, DA-10 exhibitors were the CDO Small Farmers Association and Miarayon Highland Farmers Association, both selling assorted vegetables, root crops, and spices; Northern Mindanao Federation of Dairy Cooperative (bottled fresh milk and milk bar); Beltran Integrated Farm (lettuce); Manzano Farm (fresh fruits); and CDEO Integrated Farm (rabbits). (MED | DOLE-10)

She also stressed that DOLE has been transparent when it comes to the systems and processes for inspecting establishments.

The state’s labor and employment department also assured intensive monitoring to ensure that all business establishments are following the recent wage order and the general labor standards, among others.

Earlier Monday, different employees’ unions from various companies in this city conducted a caravan from Rodelsa Circle going to the ALU-TUCP 10 office in Kauswagan Highway as part of their activity in celebration of Labor Day.

The presidents of different workers’ unions talked about various employees’ concerns and the ALU-TUCP 10 officials shared inspirational messages, stressing the huge contribution of the employees to sustaining the economy. (MT)

In the upper half of the 14-delegation 2023 NMRAA Meet are Bukidnon (18-15-14), Iligan (15-14-14), Valencia (13-8-21), and Misamis Occidental (6-5-3).

Camiguin is in the lower half with 6-4-7 medal tally, with Oroquieta (5-8-5), Tangub (5-1-4), Malaybalay (4-67), and Gingoog (1-2-1), while El Salvador and Ozamiz have yet to capture a gold medal each.

NMRAA results will determine who will advance to the Mindanao Qualifying Meet on July 17 to 21, before the 2023 National Games (Palarong Pambansa) on July 29 to August 5 in Marikina City. (MT)

had evacuated from Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, with 391 having crossed to the Egyptian side of the border in buses chartered by the Philippine Embassy in Cairo and the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Sudan.

In an article published by the government-run Philippine News Agency, thousands of people, including foreigners, have fled Sudan since the outbreak of violence between the two conflicting rivals on April 15. (Franck Dick Rosete | MT)

CENTENARIANS | from p3 full reign to the practical application of state policies at the local level, thus giving high regard to its senior citizens, especially the centenarians.

In separate resolutions, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Ozamiz honored Balcita, who lived to her 100th birthday, April 10, 2023, and Parojinog, who celebrated her 100th birthday on April 14 of this year, awarding each with a cash gift of P100,000.

A signed letter from President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., for each centenarian said, "It is a remarkable feat to reach a hundred years of age, for it reflects a lifetime of victories both big and small. May your life and legacy be remembered, and may the good Lord also bless you with more healthy and happy years."

Balcita and Parojinog are the 9th and 10th centenarians in the city who have received the P100,000 cash gift since the start of the Asenso Ozamiz administration. (AONC | PIA10 | Misamis Occidental)

Wed-Thu, May 3-4, 2023

AS IT HAPPENS, WHERE IT HAPPENS

Manolo Fortich caps off Banog-Banog Festival with

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon – The BanogBanog Festival 2023 wrapped up with a bang on April 29, as ten contingents took to the streets in elaborate costumes, showcasing the town's rich cultural heritage through pulsating drum beats and dazzling street dancing.

The “Sayaw, Estorya, Kultura” show at the municipal gymnasium was a hit among locals and tourists alike, with mesmerizing tableau and video presentations narrating the fascinating tales and legends that make up Manolo Fortich's identity. Majority of the performances incorporated eagle wings and movements to honor the municipality’s

most recognizable emblem, the Philippine Eagle. Barangay Santiago and Guilang-guilang took home the Best in Videography award, Alae-MantibugaoMinsuro won the Best in Choreography, and DalirigTicala received the Best in Costume. The AlaeMantibugao-Minsuro also emerged as this year’s Street Dance Exhibition and Cultural Show Tableau Performance champion.

Congratulations to the winners!

The festivities concluded with the Mercato/Bazaar and live bands at the BRCI Compound, where attendees were treated to an array of aerial, arts, music, and food. (DOT-10)

Kadiwa ng Pangulo para sa mga Manggagawa’s 1st day sells P92K of bargain goods

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

– The Department of Labor and Employment-10 (DOLE-10), as lead on the “Kadiwa ng Pangulo Para sa Manggagawa,” in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA-10), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-10), National Food Authority (NFA-10), and Department of Tourism

(DOT-10) said on its first day, sold a total of P92,828 worth of displayed basic goods on May 1 during the 121st Labor Day celebration at the 5th floor of SM Downtown Premier, here.

Estrella Pahalla, DOLE10 regional director, said there were 17 exhibitors who are livelihood-assisted projects of DOLE-10, and

the said agencies, will be displaying their goods for five days until May 5 during mall hours.

Since the opening of display at 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., DA-10 already sold P74,587; DOLE-10 with P11,990; and DTI-10 with P6,251.

Pahalla said the “Kadiwa” is an initiative of Pres.

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and also through his capacity as acting secretary of the DA. Marcos and Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma mutually agreed to extend the same goal but with a wider target audience, this time for the Filipino workers, just in time for the Labor Day or the “Araw ng mga

Dancers perform during the Banog-Banog Festival 2023’s street dancing competition in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on April 29. (Photo courtesy of DOT-10)

A dancer is all smiles as she performs during Banog-Banog Festival 2023’s street dancing competition in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on April 29. (Photo courtesy of DOT-10)

A dancer gracefully performs during Banog-Banog Festival 2023’s street dancing competition in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on April 29. (Photo courtesy of DOT-10)

DOLE-10 officials, led by Director Estrella Pahalla (2nd from left), check the locally made products that are sold at the “Kadiwa ng Pangulo Para sa Manggagawa” at a mall on May 1. (DOLE-10)