One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 4 Issue 49

Vol 4

Issue 49

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Dr. May Ann Sta. Lucia, Department of Health -6 Medical Officer III, answers queries from the members of the media regarding DOH's Iwas Paputok campaign during a press briefing held Monday at Amigo Hotel here.

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

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December 8– 14, 2014

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Cebu one of six areas to establish 1st Negosyo Center in PH CEBU CITY, Dec. 9 (PIA) --- Cebu is one of six areas in the country that has been identified to initially establish the Negosyo Center aimed at pushing for the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) amid the full implementation of the Asean Economic Community (AEC) integration by 2015.

Trade Undersecretary Zenaida C. Maglaya said the passage of the RA 10644 otherwise known as the ‗Go Negosyo Act‘ of 2014 is a very significant development that aims to boost the development of SMEs. Under the law, every province, city and municipality in the country is required to put up a Negosyo Center, seen to bring government services closer to small businesses.

Maglaya said the Negosyo Center can be housed either at the regional or provincial office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) or in the building of the local government unit. ―By next year, we hope to establish 100 Negosyo Centers,‖ said Maglaya following the establishment of the six priority areas.

According to the DTI, the Negosyo Center is designed to promote ease of doing business and facilitating access to services for micro, small and medium enterprises.

Maglaya said the development of the SMEs would open more job opportunities and translate to inclusive

growth. Over 99 percent of the establishments in the country comprised of MSMEs, which accounts for 66 percent of the total employment in the private sector, according to the DTI. Developing MSMEs can make them more competitive amid the AEC integration, claimed Maglaya during a recent multi-sectoral briefing on the country‘s AEC Game Plan and Industry Roadmap in Cebu attended by over 200 participants.

According to Maglaya, the AEC seeks to create a single market and a single production base within the Asean region, and become fully integrated with the global market.

Maglaya said since January 2010, more than 99.65 percent of goods have been traded at zero tariffs among Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines.

Only very few products remain protected by tariffs within the Asean and in the Philippines, these are primarily agricultural products like rice, sugar, cassava and sweet potatoes, maize, chicken and swine.

Maglaya said the Philippines stands to enjoy the vast promises and strong growth potentials of the AEC integration with an access to a 600 million people market and receive the benefits of a dynamic competition. (mbcn/ FCR/PIA-7)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

DSWD delivers more than P79-M relief goods to Ruby-stricken areas

This forum is in line with Pag-IBIG Fund‘s 34th anniversary on December 14, 2014. Guests are Member Services Branch Operations for VisMin VP Victoria de la Peña and Home Lending Operations for VisMin VP Fermin A. Sta. Teresa Jr. The forum was aired live at DYMR-Radyo ng Bayan-Cebu and delayed telecast at Sky Cable-Cebu Ch. 61. (vvv)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

By: Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Dec. 14 (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Eastern Visayas is continuously providing food support to families displaced by typhoon Ruby.

Based on the progress report of the Operation Center of the agency, a total of 153,049 food packs have been augmented in various areas in the region consisting of 3,680 rice packs, 416 boxes of noodles, 30 sacks of bottled water and 130 boxes of canned goods, among others.

The estimated cost of relief goods delivered to the different municipalities, including the prepositioned commodities, amounted to P79,999,410.00.

To date, 1,300 boxes of high energy biscuits from World Food Programme will be delivered to three municipalities in Eastern Samar such as Taft, Sulat and San

Julian.

DSWD Field Office 8 also received non-food items from United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The non-food items which include ridge tents, plastic tarps and fleece thermal blanket were delivered to the municipalities of Dolores, Oras and San Policarpo, all in Eastern Samar.

As of this report, displaced families decreased to 23, 776 families consisting of about 124, 018 individuals following the closure of the evacuation centers in the provinces of Leyte, Southern Leyte and Biliran.

The situational report of NDRRMC disclosed that electric power has been restored in all affected areas except in the Samar Provinces. Likewise, about 98.87% of cell sites of all telecommunications companies nationwide have been restored. (ajc/cba/PIA-8)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Joint NDRRMC-RDRRMC-PDRRMC Meeting, December 10, at the Eastern Samar Provl Capitol for updates re typhoon Ruby with Vice Governor Dindo Picardal presiding. In attendance are Sec Mar Roxas, Sec Edwin Lacierda, Sec Dinky Soliman, government agencies, NGOs and INGOs. (Mquirante/ PIA8-Eastern Samar)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

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City gov't launches online business systems By: Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Dec. 8 (PIA6) --- The Iloilo City Government recently launched the first Online Business Registration System, Mobile Money Payment, and the Virtual Investment Promotion Center during a program held at Amigo Terrace Hotel here.

This is in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Scaling Innovations in Mobile Money (SIMM) Project.

City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said enhancing the delivery of frontline services especially the business licensing system will make services faster, more efficient, more convenient, and with greater transparency and accountability. ―These new systems and programs will definitely show our sincerity, resolve, and determination to provide the best for our city, because Ilonggos deserve the best,‖ he said.

With the new mobile service, taxpayers can now pay their business tax using their cellular phones.

The systems offer an innovative, secure, and costeffective means to create high impact development that

benefits the people. ―These innovations will eliminate or reduce to the barest minimum the need for paperwork and make paying taxes less cumbersome,‖ he said.

Aside from USAID, Mabilog also acknowledged the University of the Philippines Visayas, Iloilo City Trade and Investment Promotions Board, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

The city government has been working to improve the Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS) to encourage more investors to do business in the city since 2012. (JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

Effective information dissemination can beat climate change - DENR

By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, Dec. 11(PIA6) — Delivering effective information dissemination and setting a good example of environmental protection practices can beat the effects of climate change.

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nvironment Secretary Ramon Paje, in a me ssa ge r ea d be f ore the information officers in Western Visayas, said that everybody shoud participate in and set themselves as good models in eco-friendly activities.

Paje was supposed to be the guest speaker during the awarding of the Best Performing Information Officers given by the Philippine Information Agency in the region.

The event was part of the Climate Change summit jointly undertaken by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the PIA as partners in the advocacy campaign for adaptation and mitigation.

In the same message read by DENR-EMB Assistant director Dr. Eva Ocfemia, Paje said

that the shared passion for raising awareness and action on environmental management should be indicated by how well the information dissemination process is conducted. ―What follows also is the monitoring whether the message is understood by the clients,‖ Paje said.

He added that preserving the environment and the health of the people through climate change adaptation and mitigation is more than just ensuring that the surroundings are clear of smog and garbage. ―We have to set an example of good practices in what we do for the environment,‖ he also said. In asserting his message, Paje said

that small actions like waste segregation, waste recycling, using energy-efficient appliances and lighting system, carpooling, are eco-friendly habits, which when done collectively, will help reduce green house gases in the atmosphere.

The Climate Change Summit was participated in by more than 200 information officers, local government officials from all over the region.

The event also graced by the presence of Secretary Sonny Coloma of the Presidential Communication Operations Office, included an awarding of the Best LGU Project in Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation, spearheaded by the PIA with the support of the DENR. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

SSS pensioners to receive 13th month pay NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Dec. 8 (PIA6) - - A total of 1.9 million pensioners of the Social Security System nationwide has another reason to be merry this yuletide season.

About P6-billion is up for release this December as part of SSS annual tradition of giving out 13th month pay to pensioners that started in 1988.

In Western Visayas, there are around 178,134 pensioners as of September this year who are entitled to the 13th month pay.

The 13th month pension of retirees and survivor pensioners is equal to the amount of their regular monthly pensions, while it

excludes the carer‘s allowance for disability pensioners while children receiving dependent‘s pensions are also entitled to the 13th month pension.

Based on SSS current records, the average basic monthly pension amounts to P3,157.

SSS members or their beneficiaries can withdraw their December and 13thmonth pensions on a schedule based on their contingency date for retirement, disability or death.

Meanwhile, SSS-Bacolod Branch Head Raul Casiano reminds SSS pensioners of their on-going Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) program.

ACOP if able, needs to report to SSS to validate their eligibility to receive continued pension while those with disabilities or sick may send representatives with corresponding authorization letter.*(JCM/ EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

T. Fornier CRM 3rd best climate change project By: Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA6) - - The Coastal Resource Management Program (CRM) of the Municipality of Tobias Fornier was declared 3rd Place winner in the Regional Search for LGU Best practices on Climate Change.

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he search for LGU Best practice on Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation was launched by the Philippine Information Agency and DENR to highlight the contributions of LGUs to the efforts of the national government towards making communities safer and more resilient against the effects of climate change.

The plaque of recognition and the cash prize of P20,000 was received by Mayor Jose Maria Fornier in an awarding rites was held during the Regional Climate Change Summit and Year End Conference of Information Officers at Iloilo Grand Hotel, Iloilo City on December 2, 2014.

The occasion was graced by Secretary Sonny Coloma, Presidential Communication Operations Office, PIA Regional Director Atty.

Ma Janet C. Mesa, DENR Director for

Environment and Management Bureau Dr. Eva Ocfemia representing Secretary Ramon Paje and DENR 6 Regional Director Jim O. Sampulna.

First Place Winner was awarded to Aklan Bakawan Eco Park in Kalibo, Aklan and Second Place went to the Upland Greening Project of Leon, Iloilo.

The Coastal Resource Management Program of Tobias Fornier covers 12 coastal barangays which develop and safeguard mangrove plantation essential in preserving their marine ecosystem and biodiversity, likewise, protection during typhoons and storm surges.

Rosanmi Labnao, Coastal Resource Management Officer said regular mangrove planting and coastal cleanup is done to ensure plastics or non-biodegradable waste are not

stuck in mangroves and eventually damaged the plantation.

Based on their monitoring, the fish catch in the area has increased and incidence of illegal fishing also declined.

The association of fisherfolks also played an active role in ‗Bantay Dagat‘ running after illegal fishers that encroached in marine sanctuary, she said.

In many instances their mangrove plantation/ beach forests served as wind breaker in coastal communities against during typhoons/strong winds. It also purify sea water and maintain its biodiversity.

The project, Labnao said is really a big help particularly to the fisherfolks to ensure enough supply of fish and marine products and also in mitigating the impact of climate change.

(JCM//PSM/Antique)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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Capiz PIA holds awards and recognition program

By Alex A. Lumaque ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Dec. 12 (PIA6 ) – Forty-four government public information officers (PIO) attended the Information Year End Conference and Awards conducted by Capiz Information Center of the Philippine Information Agency last Dec. 11 at Ysabel‘s Steaks and Ribs here.

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hese PIOs were organized by the Capiz Infocen into the Capiz Association of Government Public Information Officers, Inc. (CAGPIO).

PIA – Capiz Information Center Manager Jemin B. Guillermo said that the activity was designed to recognize outstanding individual and office partners of PIA on information and advocacy works during the year which kept Capiceños and netizens informed of what were happening in the province.

CASAC director Rev. Father Mark C. Granflor, who was the conference guest and resource speaker gave a talk on life

enrichment.

He urged the CAGPIO members to "add more prayer time in their lives".

He also told them that ―the problems and pains in life help us realize how strong we are as a person.‖ Information officers led by CAGPIO president and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Esperedion C. Pelaez were also treated to a simple relaxation activity.

Five trained masseurs of the Capiz Archdiocesan Social Action Center (CASAC) took turns in providing the PIOs a massage either on feet, body and hands or a

combination of the choices in exchange for a small donation for the service.

The PIA and CAGPIO cited the Metro Roxas Water District, Philippine Red Cross, Capiz Police Provincial Office, Roxas City Press Bureau and the International Organization for Migration for their support in the various information dissemination, environmental protection and civic activities during the year.

Aside from outstanding PIOs, members of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) – organized Speakers Bureau were also recognized in the gathering. (JCM/AAL/PIA6 Capiz)

S&T assistance boosts local business

By Lilibeth A. French ILOILO CITY, Dec. 11 (PIA6) - - With their new equipment worth P160,000 from the Department of Science and Technology 6, couple Victorico and Mary Helen Nabor look forward to a better year for their baking and food business.

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he couple owns the Ikko and Pao Food Haus located at Brgy. Aganan, Pavia, Iloilo. Named after their sons, Rikko and Paolo, the business started as a snack food house in 2004 and later expanded into a bakery.

For the past ten years, the couple relied on fabricated and traditional equipment in baking their products.

There was a time when they attempted to venture into pasalubong products like pinipig cookies and biscocho.

However, with the technology constraints this was not sustained.

Helen said the traditional equipment also hindered them to produce products that meet the quality expected by customers.

Upon hearing from a cousin in the province of Aklan about the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) of DOST, Helen said, they wasted no time and went to the regional office of DOST 6 in Lapaz district to inquire about the program.

With the assistance of DOST 6 staff, Nabor‘s project proposal ―Product and Process Involvement of Pasalubong Products for Ikko and Pao Foodhaus‖ was approved with a funding assistance of P160,000.

Victorico said the fund was released on November 4, 2014 covering equipment such as planetary egg beater, horizontal dough mixer, Liquefied Petroleum Gas fired deck oven, and stainless cooking rack trolley which he expects will help boost their product quality, safety and commercialization.

Frenz Rian Gal of the DOST-Iloilo Provincial S & T Center said SETUP is a banner program of the department that encourages and assists micro small and medium enterprises and private and government institutions to implement technological innovations to enhance competitiveness and support economic development in the countryside.

Aside from the technology intervention, Gal said Ikko and Pao Foodhaus currently undergoes food safety consultancy while the

food safety training for the handlers and the owners was conducted last October.

He said the training on food safety aims to assist MSMEs in establishing and implementing food safety practices in their operations.

Helen said with all these assistance they are now confident that the produce they will offer to their customers such as fresh breads, cakes and pastas are of quality and safe.

On the other hand, Victorico said he expects increase in their production efficiency and sales.

Armed with the latest technologies the couple hopes they will have more time and resources to enhance their ―animal designed bread‖ which is now becoming a favorite product of Ikko and Pao Foodhaus.

Data obtained from DOST 6 showed that 7 existing enterprises under the food sector in the province including Ikko and Pao availed of the financial assistance from SETUP this 2014.

(JCM/LAF/PIA-Iloilo)

‗10 Kumainments‘ for healthy Pinoys By: Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, Dec.9 (PIA6) — There are now ten commandments to help Pinoys become healthy and nourished, put in simple and popularized language.

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his is the ―10 Kumainments‖ recently launched by the National Nutrition Council-6 to heighten advocacy and support for the Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos (NGF).

Nona B. Tad-y, Regional Nutrition Program coordinator, who led the launching here, said that the ―10 Kumainments‖ were made simple and easy to remember for the ordinary citizens. ―The 10 Kumainments seeks to encourage every household to practice

proper nutrition behaviour and influence others to do the same,‖ Tad-y said, adding that these can contribute in reducing malnutrition in the country.

The 10 messages are expressed like ―Kumain ng iba-iba‘t pagkain,‖ ―Kumain ng prutas at gulay araw-araw,‖ and ―Panatalihin ang tamang timbang,‖ carry simple messages easily understood, according to Tad-y.

The launch was done during the meeting of the Regional federation of Nutrition Action

Officers, local Nutrition Program Coordinators and Barangay Nutrition Scholars from all over the region.

The ―10 Kumainments‖ were approved by the NNC Governing Board to further promote the NGF, which was also translated in the local dialect. ―I hope the ―10 Kumainments‖ woll help and encourage Ilonggos to change their eating habits,‖ Tad-y said. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

NORECO2, GCGI ink deal to lower power rate, extend power supply DUMAGUETE CITY, Dec. 11 (PIA) --- The Negros Oriental Electric Cooperative (NORECO) 2 has signed an amendment in the power supply agreement today with Green Core Geothermal Incorporated (GCGI) for a 25-megawatt power supply until 2020 and a power rate reduction. ccording to NORECO 2 Board ―With the renewal of contract with consumers. chair Atty. Fe Marie Dicen-Tagle, the Noreco2 for the 25 MW, we believe this GCGI, which operates the 192.5 MW amendment contract provides the is the best solution for the member Palinpinon geothermal power plants in assurance of clean power supply of 25MW -consumers for reliable power supply Valencia, and the 112.5 MW Tongonan but also a reduction of rates of P0.49 per because the geothermal power plant is so close geothermal power plant in Kananga, Leyte, is kilowatt. by and the risk of loses with power cable lines the power arm of Energy Development The reduced power rate is pursuant to going down may be reduced,‖ said GCGI chief Corporation (EDC), the country‘s leading the re-pricing provisions and market-based operations officer and president Richard producer of geothermal energy. structure in the original ten-year power supply Tantoco.

NORECO2 is one of the electric agreement.

Tantoco said with the reduction cooperatives in Negros Oriental which Tagle said the basic energy charge was of power price, the franchise area will distributes power to its coverage areas in 14 already reflected in the member-consumers‘ immediately receive P30 million savings cities and municipalities in the province. (rmn/ November billing statement. which will be passed on to the electric JCT/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

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Changing people's perception on disasters, a major feat for government, says official MANILA, Dec. 14 -- Infusing a culture of preparedness in the people's consciousness is already a major feat for the government, especially in the midst of yearly typhoons that hit the country, a Palace official said on Saturday.

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s the country bids farewell to the year 2014, Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte was asked about the Aquino administration's major achievements for this year.

Valte told dzRB Radyo ng Bayan in an interview that it's hard to come up with a definite list of achievements, because while the country was able to overcome many challenges this year, the Philippines still has to confront many other hurdles.

"Perhaps… And because this is recent— and this is not, by far, the greatest, perhaps, in our view—but coming off from our recent experience with Typhoon Ruby, we‘re hoping that we are evolving to what you call a ‗culture of preparedness'," Valte said.

Given that there are 20 typhoons on the average that pass through the country, Valte said they are hoping that with the recent

experience with Typhoon Ruby, the government, as well as the local population have started to show an evolving or developing culture of preparedness given the geographic placement of the country.

Last week, officials said people in the typhoon's path voluntarily submitted themselves to evacuations, securing themselves and their families from harm.

This is a new response from the people, they said, because in the past, the government had difficulty encouraging the people to relocate to safer grounds during impending disasters.

In November last year, more than 7,000 people died or went missing following the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda.

The typhoon also caused massive property destruction in Eastern Visayas region, driving thousands of people deeper into pov-

erty.

Valte was also asked about the gains from the Philippines' participation in the 25th ASEAN Commemorative Summit in South Korea.

She said that coming off from the country‘s experience from Typhoon Ruby, the typhoon makes it very real to the country's neighbors in the ASEAN, as well as South Korea, the need for an increased awareness and action on disaster risks.

"And, as the President said, we also have many lessons to learn from South Korea when it comes to disaster risk mitigation," she noted.

"So it‘s an opportunity really to highlight the evolving needs of countries as they face issues brought about by climate change."

The President arrived in Manila Friday night after the two-day event in Busan, South Korea. (PCOO/PND (as)

PH pushes for inclusive, rights-based decision at Lima climate conference MANILA, Dec. 14 -- The Philippine delegation to the 20th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP20) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, underscored the importance of having Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) that are inclusive and which promote human rights.

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iting the 'Lima Spirit' that describes the transparency and openness in the way Peru is hosting the climate conference, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Jesus R.S. Domingo, alternate head of delegation, made an intervention that proposed inclusivity and human rights, particularly of women and indigenous peoples, as considerations when Parties submit INDCs as part of the proposed universal climate change agreement to be adopted in December 2015.

The intervention was widely supported by other delegations, the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

An inclusive and rights-based process in the INDCs will ensure that these mitigation and adaptation climate actions get the necessary ownership by communities and persons who will be affected as well as benefit from these projects.

INDCs are the means by which the new climate change deal in Paris next year seeks to achieve the Convention's goal of capping global warming to 2 Celsius.

Warming beyond this level is projected to have serious consequences for climate vulnerable countries like the Philippines.

The Philippines already has a robust system of ensuring participation and protecting

the rights of persons when considering environmental projects.

Social acceptability provisions are built into the Local Government Code; the country has an Environmental Impact Assessment process; and prior informed consent is an important principle in its law for indigenous peoples.

The country's human rights advocacy is in line with its work on climate change and human rights at the Human Rights Council, and its long tradition of promoting the rights of women, migrants and other vulnerable groups under existing conventions. (DFA)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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Malacañang welcomes improvement President's satisfaction rating

on

MANILA, Dec. 11 -- The Palace has welcomed the improvement on President Benigno S. Aquino III's satisfaction rating based on the latest survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS), which said the people continue to appreciate the administration's reform initiatives.

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Perhaps it is the good work that continues to show and the efforts that the administration puts in to push for programs that would directly benefit the people," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a press briefing in Malacañang on Wednesday.

"We note that from the decline last June for the second quarter, so far the numbers have consistently been going up, and we extend our appreciation to the people for their continued support for

President Aquino and his administration."

The Palace official also said that the recent SWS survey result would encourage the administration to push further with the government‘s reform program.

President Aquino's satisfaction rating bounced back in the fourth quarter of the year, achieving a net satisfaction rating of +39, up five points from September‘s +34.

Some 63 percent of the 1,800 adults surveyed nationwide from November 27 to

December 1, said they were satisfied with the President‘s performance, while 24 percent said they were dissatisfied and 14 percent were undecided.

The rating is considered ―good‖ based on the SWS' classification.

T h e r ec en t su rv e y res u lt is considered the highest since President Aquino‘s rating dropped from +45 in the first quarter of the year to only +25 in the second quarter. (PCOO/PND (as)

DOST-PNRI boosts nuclear safety & research facilities QUEZON CITY, Dec 11 -- The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute - Department of Science and Technology (PNRI - DOST) strengthened its capability in monitoring and irradiation through the latest additions in its stable of nuclear facilities.

Particularly, PNRI inaugurated its Electron Beam Facility and received the Environmental Radiation Monitor during the opening of the Atomic Energy celebration this week at the PNRI Compound in Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City. arming up the event, DOST Monitor System called EFRD-3300 provides Department of Transportation and Secretary Mario G. Montejo continuous and real-time monitoring of Communication who himself is also a former opened the celebration with the ambient gamma radiation. It will be part of a House representative. weather update on Typhoon Hagupit. "When nationwide early-warning system for On House Bill No. 147, he said, ―I am we speak about the weather, let's believe in monitoring radiation emergencies such as that proud to work with PNRI in shepherding (its) PAG-ASA, when it's about nuclear, let's believe which transpired at the Fukushima Nuclear passage... in Congress …the bottomline is, in PNRI. Let's believe in ourselves," he cheered Power Plant Station in 2011. there is a need for the Philippines to be the audience composed of institutional According to PNRI Director Dr. internationally compliant with our nuclear regpartners, stakeholders, media, students, DOST Alumanda M. Dela Rosa, "The additional ulatory practices.‖ -PNRI personnel, as well as foreign dignitaries facilities and equipment will be very helpful in The ceremonies were attended by Dr. from Argentina, Russia, France, USA and Japan. improving our capabilities, not only in nuclear Sunil Sabharwal, International Atomic Energy Secretary Montejo also thanked the research but also in radiation protection and Agency (IAEA) technical officer, Dr. Young Korean Government for the turnover of the nuclear safety."

Yong Ji, Korea Atomic Energy Research radiation monitor, and the international Congressman Francis G e r a l d Institute senior researcher, and Dr. Bumsoo community including the USA, Japan, Russia, Aguinaldo-Abaya, First District Representative Han, CEO EB Tech., Co. Ltd. and Argentina for supporting the PNRI's of Cavite and Keynote Speaker during the Running until Friday this week, the Atomic project on the Electron Beam Facility. opening program, said, "You might be Energy celebration will feature the Philippine This facility, the first of its kind in the wondering what a congressman and an Nuclear Science Quiz (PNSQ) for high school country, will be useful for research, semi architect are doing in this highly scientific students on December 11 (Thursday), and commercial electron beam services, and other occasion. To be honest, it is my brother Sec. closing/awarding ceremonies with A Night at radiation processing related applications.

Jun Abaya who is the science wiz in the family,‖ PNRI on December 12 (Friday). (S&T Media Meanwhile, the Environmental Radiation referring to Sec. Joseph Emilio Abaya of the Service)

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South Korea grants Philippines $500-million concessional loan MANILA, Dec. 13 -- The South Korean government is extending $500 million framework agreement loan for the country's development projects, President Benigno S. Aquino III announced upon his arrival from South Korea Friday evening.

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he fund is a concessional loan with favorable interest rate for the Philippines, the President said in his arrival speech at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2.

Aquino said the loan was on top of the $5 -million and $20-million grants Seoul is extending to the Philippines for the rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in the areas struck by Typhoon Yolanda last year.

President Aquino did not elaborate about the loan but he said it was called a ―concessional loan" that offered a good interest rate. President Aquino said the loan was discussed during his bilateral meeting with South Korean President Park Geun-hye last Thursday. ―Napakaganda po ng interest na ipagkakaloob sa atin, at kung tutuusin ay talagang tinutulungan lang tayo sa ating mga proyektong pampaunlad,‖ he continued.

South Korea also spelled out

development plans for Mindanao and other parts of the country, the President added.

"Balak pa nga nilang ipatupad ang infrastructure development program ng Korea International Cooperation Agency para sa Mindanao, kasabay ng pagpapatuloy ng mga programa nila para sa capacity-building sa Bangsamoro."

During the meeting with President Park Geun-hye, the South Korean leader mentioned the interests of South Korean businessmen to invest or expand in the Philippines.

President Park also shared the expertise of South Korea on port development particularly on building coastal breakwaters, something that could be adopted in the Philippines.

"Hindi nga po natin tatanggihan ang pagbabahagi ng ganitong kasanayan at kaalaman, lalo pa‘t galing ang mga ito sa isang

bansa na malapit sa atin at talagang hinahangaan sa mga naturang larangan," he stressed.

Aside from sending Araw troops, (South Korean soldiers) immediately after the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda last year, South Korea also donated $5 million to help the survivors.

This time, South Korea is extending another $20 million in assistance for the rehabilitation of devastated areas in Eastern Visayas, the President said.

"Ganito nga po ang bunga ng matalik at malalim na ugnayan: Pagdadamayan na nakaangkla sa hangaring bigyang-lakas ang kapwa para sa ikabubuti ng nakakarami o ng lahat."

The President visited South Korea this week for the 25th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-Republic of Korea (ASEAN-ROK) Commemorative Summit. PND (jb/as)

EASTERN VISAYAS

6 Roxas hails Dolores LGU

TACLOBAN CITY, LEYTE, December 8 (PIA) - Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary (DILG) Mar Roxas commended the local government unit of Dolores town, for recording zero casualty after typhoon ―Ruby‖.

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oined by Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, and Congressman Ben Evardone, Roxas went to Dolores today, to inspect the extent of damage wrought by the typhoon when it first landfall, 9:15 in the evening on Saturday, December 6.

As one of the President‘s representatives, Roxas personally extended his appreciation to the town‘s chief executive, Mayor Emiliana P.

Villacarillo.

According to him, it was due to the people‘s response to the government‘s call to brace themselves and evacuate that resulted in zero casualty in the area. ―It pays to be prepared for any impending danger‖, the DILG Secretary articulated, as he extended his hands to congratulate Mayor Villacarillo.

Dolores is some 60-kilometers north

of Borongan city. Four towns are in between: San Julian, Sulat, Taft and Can-avid.

As reported over ABS-CBN TV-Patrol, the going was not easy since the national highway was partly blocked with fallen trees, leaning electrical posts, fallen rocks and landslides.

But they have to reach and bring forth government action and attention.

(PIA-8).

Soliman to media: Please be fair TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, December 9 (PIA) - It is not fair for people working on the ground!

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hese were the words that caught the ire of Department of Social Work and Development (DSWD) Secretary Dinky Soliman as she referred to a media report which mentioned of non-distribution of relief goods in ―Ruby‖ stricken Eastern Samar.

Speaking in the meeting at the capitol building which was presided by DILG Secretary Mar Roxas with local officials in attendance, Soliman strongly denied a report that went on national television, Monday evening, December 8.

Disappointed at the particular broadcast, she then requested the media covering the government response of ―Ruby‖ wreckage, to check the information before they are released to public.

The report however was differently treated in another giant TV network, Soliman said.

―One interviewee might not be enough to gather an information‖, Soliman said. ―It must be validated if only to make sure of an information subject for press release‖, she added.

Borongan and the rest of Samar provinces are still in total black out due to the undetermined number of electrical posts that are either leaning or totally damaged, which was why, Soliman among others in the team was not able to capture the report.

At present, all news released on TV are all coming from the coverage team who are part of the first government responders, but these are only being monitored in Metro Manila and other areas with electricity.

In her Food Distribution Updates, Soliman reported of 50-kilo sacks of rice distributed to all municipalities, ranging from 200 to 4,000 sacks, depending on the extent of damage wrought by ―Ruby‖.

They are also setting-up Distribution Hubs in the wharfs of Maslog and Jipapad to facilitate the speedy relief distribution.

The two are upstream municipalities of the province.

Another sub-hub in San Julian will be installed while the main hubs are in Catarman, Northern Samar, Borongan and Tacloban.

Soliman likewise mentioned that government cash assistance will go to those whose houses were partially and totally damaged at P10,000.00 and P30,000.00, respectively.

In soft numbers, Soliman said there are 299 evacuation centers in Eastern Samar, 41,448 affected families and 203,000 plus individuals.

Totally damaged houses are 12,982 while 22,363 are partially damaged ones.

There were eight lives that were lost to ―Ruby‖ as reported.(PIA-8)

PNB Naval in full online operation via satellite NAVAL, Biliran, Dec. 11 (PIA) – Philippine National Bank (PNB) serves depositors and clients into full online operation yesterday via satellite, Joy Navarra of PNB Naval Branch said.

C

lients jam-packed outside and Gaudioso Ypanto, bank manager, i n t h e p r e m i s e s o f t h e remains in his post to oversee the overall bank minutes before its opening operation of the bank. time.

He even assists bank staff in Some clients queued at the welcoming the overwhelming clients upon ATM kiosk as other banks are out of entering the bank to maintain peace and service. order.

Landbank and Metrobank though open for service was on an offline status yesterday.

The residents are expecting electricity to be energized today and internet connections to be back to normal soon. (mlt/PIA-Biliran)

EASTERN VISAYAS

7

DTI-Southern Leyte holds integrated coconut processing

training

on

By Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte (PIA) -- A Basic Skills Training on Integrated Coconut Processing will be conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office here on two occasions within this week.

I

n a statement sent to the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) today, DTI informed that the first training is scheduled December 15-17, or today until Wednesday, at barangay Hantag this city, an interior barangay from the city proper, about ten kilometers upland to the north. ―This will be participated by the officers and members of Hantag Farmers Multi-purpose Cooperative, Inc.

(HAFAMCI). Mrs. Minerva Baclayon, a licensed food technician of Southern Leyte State University (SLSU)-Sogod Campus will be tapped as the trainer,‖ the DTI statement said.

The second similar training, on December 19-21, will be at Mahayahay, Bontoc, Southern Leyte ―participated by workers of Yummy‘s Homemade Products, and coconut farmers from the said barangay.‖

Funds for the two skills trainings were taken from the DTI‘s CARP funds.

The activity will also discuss matters on costing, pricing, and some good manufacturing practices. ―The main purpose of these trainings is to introduce other by-products of coconut, an alternative source of income aside from the traditional copra or coconut kernels,‖ the DTI statement also said. (mmp, PIA8-Southern Leyte)

Tacloban City declares State of Calamity due to Ruby TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Dec. 9 (PIA) – Tacloban City has been declared under State of Calamity after the onslaught of typhoon Ruby.

T

his after the city council headed

by Vice Mayor Jerry ―Sambo‖ Yaokasin passed a resolution during the emergency session held Monday afternoon at the legislative building of Tacloban City.

The act of the council was made upon the recommendation of Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez.

In an interview with Tacloban Vice -Mayor Yaokasin said, the declaration would mean all the 138 barangays of the city can use their respective calamity funds from the Internal

Revenue Allotment (IRA) and to control the prices of prime and basic commodities.

Yaokasin likewise emphasized that although there was only minimal damage compared to Yolanda, all barangays were affected by the typhoon.

Hence, the declaration is necessary.

Rep orts reach in g th e City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office from Tacloban City Hospital disclosed that six (6) persons were reportedly injured but no reported

death so far.

It was learned that ninety five (95) percent of the residents in high risk areas were evacuated to 96 evacuation centers.

Yaokasin further said, better preparations, early evacuation of residents in high risk areas and the lessons learned from Yolanda can be attributed to zero fatality in Tacloban.

Tacloban City was heavily affected by the strong typhoon Yolanda when it made landfall in November 8 last year. (ajc/cba/PIA-8)

Info Officers commit waste segregation at homes, offices MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Dec. 11 (PIA) -- More than a dozen information officers from national line agencies, provincial offices, and some local government units pledged to walk the talk on segregating garbage in their offices as a step to curb, in a little way, the adverse impact of climate change.

A

t the Climate Change orientation held at Maasin Country Lodge Wednesday, the info officers, most of them designated by their respective offices and LGUs, vowed to practice waste segregation henceforth and apply the practice to their individual homes.

The activity was a joint project undertaken by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) with full support from the city government of Maasin and the province of Southern Leyte.

Earlier, Edilberto Alcarde of the DENR-CENRO-Maasin discussed in a powerpoint presentation the subject on climate change and what people can be do about it, as individuals and communities, to mitigate or adapt with its bad effects, mostly manifested in strong typhoons.

Benjase Lumen of the City General Services also shared inputs on how to keep wastes to a minimum, so that what will be thrown away are purely the unwanted wastes like minute plastic wrappers or

non-reusable plastic sando bags, among others.

But some offices already have their own waste segregation system, like the one at DPWH provincial office, where all their saleable wastes will be collected to be sold to scrap buyers.

Also, some provincial government offices have five ―S‖ scheme in maintaining cleanliness institutionalized, with ―dura box‖, a durable cabinet, used as thrash bin for segregated materials. (mmp, PIA8-Southern Leyte)

One Visayas e-newsletter is published weekly by the Visayas Regional Cluster of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) comprising Region 6, 7 and 8. Its main editorial office is located at PIA Region 6, Iloilo City.

One Visayas e-newsletter is part of the online news and information dissemination services of PIA and is powered by www.issuu.com. For inquiries and suggestions, call Tel. Nos. (033) 3378719/3377301 or e-mail piaamo6@yahoo.com.

Ms. Minerva BC Newman Regional Director, PIA 7

Editorial Consultants Atty. Ma. Janet C. Mesa, Ph. D. Regional Director, PIA6

Ms. Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu Regional Director, PIA8

Managing Editor Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. Contributors All PIA Information Officers of Regions 6, 7 & 8 Production and Layout Edson J. BaĂąares Lynnor C. Regalado Regional Offices: PIA 6, 2/F RC Building, Rizal St., Iloilo City, Iloilo 5000, Tel. Nos. (033) 337-8719/3377301/509-0993, Fax No. (033) 337-8719/509-0993, e-mail: r6_pia@yahoo.com/ piaamo6@yahoo.com PIA 7, Room 304, 3/F Machay Bldg., Garardo Avenue, Cebu City, Cebu 6000, Telefax No. (032) 232-4062/232-4126, e-mail: pia7_cebu@yahoo.com.ph/r7_pia@yahoo.com PIA 8, Children‘s Park Compound, Sen. Enage St., Tacloban City, Leyte 6500, Tel. No. (053) 325-5124, Telefax No. (053) 321-2029, e-mail: pia_ev@yahoo.com/r8_pia@yahoo.com