One visayas e newsletter vol 4 issue 19

Vol 4

Issue 19

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

This is the Phase1 of the country’s first large-scale commercial solar farm project inaugurated by President Aquino, May 15. The facility was put up by San Carlos Solar Energy at the San Carlos City economic zone with a capacity of 13 megawatts. The Phase 2 of the project capable of producing 9 MW will be constructed later in the industrial estate.

(PIA-6)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

CENTRAL VISAYAS

May 12 - 18, 2014

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

PNoy lauches solar power plant, Himogaa-an bridge BY: LORENZO O. LAMBATIN, JR. & EASTER ANNE D. DOZA NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, May 15 (PIA6) - -President Benigno S. Aquino III led the switch-on of the country’s first large-scale commercially financed and commissioned solar power plant in San Carlos City, May 15.

The activity marked the start of the commercial operation of the solar power facility, sending off to the local grid at peak 13 megawatts for Phase 1 and 9 megawatts for Phase 2.

President Aquino cited the San Carlos Solar Energy Incorporated (SACASOL) as a perfect example of taking responsibility to act in the face of growing climate risk whether in government or the private sector.

“This is a project funded by companies with a strong interest in renewable and clean energy investments and a project supported by the local government.

With your help, we are proving to the world: even developing countries such as ours can do their share in reducing the risks posed by global warming.

And we are doing this even at a time when the development of solar power plants remains more expensive than that of plants fuelled by traditional sources of energy,” Aquino said.

SACASOL Chairman Jose Maria Zabaleta Sr. credited the strong support of the local government of San Carlos City where the solar farm sits on a 35 hectare field of saline soil, part of the San Carlos Ecozone.

During his visit here, President Aquino also inaugurated the P313-million Himoga-an bridge in Sagay City which he described as a concrete result of the administration’s strategy to strengthen infrastructure projects in the country and institute social reforms.

“We expect growth in the local economy. Because of the

bridge, sugarcane transport will be easier coming the different parts of the province going to the mill in Sagay,” he said.

“Definitely this will lessen the cost of production and spur the growth of tourism because it will be easier to go to tourist destinations like Carbin Reef and Molocaboc Island.”

He cited the leadership of Negros Occ. Gov. Alfredo Maranon and Sagay City Mayor Alfredo “Thirdy” Maranon III and other LGUs that showed their unity with the present administration.

He also thanked DILG Secretary Mar Roxas and other agencies that bonded together to realize the project, prioritizing results more than politics. (JCM/LOL/EAD-PIA6 NegrosOcc)

President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the switch on ceremony of the Phase 1 of the solar energy project of the San Carlos Solar Energy Incorporated (SaCaSol) which paves the way for its commercial operation sending at peak, 13 megawatt power to the local grid, witnessed by SaCaSol Chairman Jose Maria Zabaleta Sr., SaCaSol President Jose Maria Zabaleta Jr., Senator Loren Legarda, First District Congressman Jules Ledesma and foreign investors (back row).*(EAD-PIA6 photo)

BOI pushes 6 priority sectors to propel PHL economy (L-R) PIA Infocen Manager Jenny Tilos, Francis Llana of Lancera, Ava Mojica of TeleTech Dumaguete, and ICT Dumaguete President and SPI Global Dumaguete Manager Suzanne Bascara appearing in a Kapihan Forum last May 14 at Captain Ribbers, Silliman Ave. The three invited other BPO investors to put up their own business in Dumaguete City for better economic growth. (ral/PIA7-NegOr)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

EASTERN VISAYAS

Thirty permanent shelters from Gawad Kalinga, Bayanihan Challenge 2014 will be built in this site of brgy. Pinasoan, Hernani. In the picture from right, is Gov. Conrado Nicart who led the Ground Breaking ceremony with GK Official Brian Gapasin, Sammy Candido in red shirt, Hernani Mayor Edgar Boco in white long-sleeved shirt, Atty. Chris Coles PDRRMO OIC-Levi Nicart. (PIA-8)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Also CLICK Here...

CEBU CITY, May 12 (PIA) -- A draft of the 2014 Investment Priorities Plan (IPP) was presented by the Board of Investments (BOI) to various sectors in Cebu during a public consultation to solicit their inputs before finalizing the plan.

Ma. Corazon Dichosa, executive director for the BOI-Industry Development Service said the 2014 IPP will be in line with the priority thrusts of the Aquino Administration’s Philippine Development Plan (PDP) carrying the theme “Industry Development for Inclusive Growth”.

Objectives of the plan include increasing employment opportunities by revitalizing growth sectors, especially in the manufacturing industry and promote high value adding activities and deeper small and medium enterprises’ participation in supply chains, said Dichosa.

Likewise, the plan aims to strengthen the participation of growth industries in global and regional production networks including the ASEAN economic community, added the BOI official.

Dichosa said just last February, the government approved the updated PDP 2014-2016 where it now focuses the growth of six priority sectors instead of the previous 13 sectors. These priority sectors are agro-industry, Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT-BPM), tourism, manufacturing, logistics and construction.

The 2014 IPP will also be in line with the PDP as it pushes for investments in the six priority sectors with the end-goal of increasing job opportunities marking social inclusive growth and thereby reducing poverty incidence by 2016.

The BOI official explained that apart from employment

Leyte firms up rehab master plan

By: Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu PROVINCIAL CAPITOL, Leyte, May 10 (PIA) – The Provincial Government of Leyte, six months in the aftermath of Yolanda onslaught, is now in the process of firming up all the details in the Leyte Rehabilitation Master Plan.

Governor Leopoldo Dominic Petilla was quoted as saying the provincial government hopes to finish the Master Plan by next week, so it could submit the same to the National Government for appropriate action.

He said that the Master Plan which is guided by the “build back better” scheme of the National Government, will be the basis for the funding of the rehabilitation program.

Petilla disclosed that the Office of the Presidential Assistant on Rehabilitation and Recovery is providing the province with the much-needed technical assistance.

generation, the investments should move to a higher value chain.

Here, she cited the upward shift from attracting call center firms to more higher value-added services like knowledge management in the knowledge process outsourcing.

Investments should also have the potentials to expand to other areas and create a competitive market amid the economic integration of the ASEAN community by next year, said Dichosa.

Compared to other countries, the Philippines has the highest fiscal incentive offer of 30 percent corporate income tax (CIT) rate to qualified investors with three to eight years of tax holiday after the start of the commercial activity.

Great economies like Singapore only provides 17 percent CIT but its tax holiday period is up to 15 years while China’s CIT is at 25 percent with a tax holiday period between two to three years.

Dichosa said the 2014 IPP will not only be concentrated on providing fiscal incentives to lure more investments but will also work on other policies, strategies and measures that will help boost industries to be more productive and competitive.

“The 2014 IPP will be a three-year document that aims to meet the goals and objectives of the PDP by 2016,” said Dichosa.

The consultation held here is part of a series the BOI is conducting throughout the country to come up with a comprehensive 2014 IPP. The team was set to have another consultation in Davao City as it nears the deadline of May 22 to gather all inputs, views and recommendations before finalizing the plan. (mbcn/fcr/PIA-7)

Villages and towns affected by Typhoon Yolanda have submitted their respective damage reports since December 2013, but the reports have yet to be validated and integrated into the provincial rehabilitation plan.

The governor said that more or less P20 billion might be allotted for the rehabilitation program of Leyte, “so it’s now a matter of coming up with a credible and comprehensive report”.

The Governor said he is happy to note that the provincial local government of Leyte has done a lot since Typhoon Yolanda struck the province.

He also took note of the international humanitarian organizations’ report that “we have done a lot compared to the other countries where there are similar disasters or calamities”. (PIA8)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

DENR releases P2-M community-based forest management project

University of San Agustin in Iloilo City

BY: JEMIN B. GUILLERMO ROXAS CITY, Capiz, May 15 (PIA6) – More than P2-million support fund to the people’s organizations for the forest management project in Capiz was already released by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

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estern Visayas DENR Regional Executive Director Jim Sampulna has already awarded the checks representing the funding support of the agency to the three People’s Organizations for the Community-Based Forest Management Agreement (CBFMA) projects, particularly in Jamindan and Dumarao towns.

Capiz DENR Provincial head Valentin Talabero explained that the CBFMA is a 25-year contract with a people’s organization for livelihood and development.

He disclosed that the Asosasyon sang Nagaprotehir sang KabukiransaJamindan (ANAK-Jamindan) in Barangay San Juan, Jamindan was awarded P580,015 for the 25-hectare Forest Enhancement through

Rattan Plantation, Agri-crops and Tilapia Culture while the Agcagay Model Upland Farmers Association (AMUFA) in Agcagay also of Jamindan town was given project support of P646,035 for the same project.

The Aglanot Community Forest Association (ACFA) of Barangay Aglanot, Dumarao town was likewise awarded P788,355.00 for the 50-hectare coconut and fruit trees plantation project.

Talabero said that RED Sampulna, during their 2nd Regional Management Conference in Capiz, personally handed over the said checks to the respective president of the said people’s organizations with Capiz Governor Victor Tanco, Jamindan Mayor Ethel Jinon and Dumarao Mayor Leslie Warren Benjamin.

On the other hand, RED Sampulna said that the BCFMA is part of the national government’s effort in “greening” the country through the National Greening Program which aims to mitigate the impact of climate change and global warming.

Sampulna said that the NGP, which seeks to attain sustainable human development and economic and ecological security, aspires to plant 1.5 billion trees in about 1.5 million hectares of public lands for six years starting 2011 until 2016. He also urged the public to have a shared responsibility in caring for Mother Earth by protecting the environment through tree and mangrove growing as the same can greatly help in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. (JBG/PIA6-Capiz)

DTI slates 3 ‘Diskwento Sales’ in Aklan BY: VENUS G. VILLANUEVA KALIBO, Aklan, May 13 (PIA6) -- Aklanons will once again be given a chance to choose from a wide array of basic goods and prime commodities at discounted prices right in their public markets with the scheduled holding of three ―Diskwento Sales‖ by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) this month of May.

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he “Diskwento Sales”, according to DTI-Aklan Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadena, Jr., will be held in the municipalities of Altavas, Kalibo and Ibajay on May 25, 26 and 27 respectively.

In Altavas, the “Diskwento Sales” will be held at the Julio Refol Sports Complex while in Kalibo, venue will be the Magsaysay Park and in Ibajay, at the Municipal Sports Complex. The activities will be held in coordination with local

distributors/dealers of goods, the local government units and the municipal consumer organizations.

Besides giving the Aklanons the chance to buy their preferred goods at discounted prices, the activity will also serve as the respective distributors’ time to practice their corporate social responsibility, said Marlon Ladia, DTI-Aklan Information Officer Designate. To be sold in the “Diskwento Sales” are products

such as milk, coffee, soap, shampoo, processed food, agro-veterinary products and school and office supplies.

These goods will be sold with at least 10% discount.

As in the previous years, DTI-Aklan is also planning this year additional activities like baking demonstration, free haircut and massage as added features of the “Diskwento Sales”.

(JCM/VGV/PIA 6 Aklan)

Social media strengthens disaster preparedness BY: LEONARD T. PINEDA I ILOILO CITY, May 12 (PIA6) --- Social media can play a key role in strengthening the community’s capacity to mitigate risks brought by disasters and natural hazards.

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n a seminar on maximizing use of social media in disaster preparedness conducted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-6, Noel De Guia of Get Ready Pinas said that social media tools can help create a culture of preparedness among Filipinos with information that are easily accessible.

“The Philippines is third in terms of vulnerability to disaster risks and natural hazards so there is a need for continuous state of preparedness by providing timely, accurate, and relevant information to ensure coordinated activities and develop public resiliency,” he said.

He said that communities or organizations can use websites to show videos, tips, and contacts to better prepare people for disasters.

He also said that Twitter has become an avenue for people to share information on what we can do in order to prevent loss of lives and properties.

“The social web also gave significant coverage to the unprecedented level of help the whole world gave to the Philippines.

Many of the mentions, articles, blogs mentioned pledges given to the country,” he said.

He said that there is a need to change our practice of always focusing on the aftermath but instead we should campaign for preparedness and give information before and not just during the time of disaster.

“There are a number of programs available in social media such as Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) of the Department of Science and

Technology which can help us prepare,” he said.

Meanwhile, Max Salazar, also of Get Ready Pinas, said that to better prepare for disasters, it is useful to have “kaizen thinking”.

Kaizen is a Japanese term meaning "change for the better". It is a philosophy that sees improvement in productivity as a gradual and methodical process.

He added that it is important to nurture the “culture of preparedness” as against the “culture of reaction” to develop public resiliency.

Get Ready Pinas is a project for disaster preparedness that inspires call to action and bayanihan among societal institutions, private sectors and individuals.

This is in partnership with Smart Communications Inc. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

WESTERN VISAYAS

University of San Agustin in Iloilo City

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WV rice production achievable

target

for

2014

BY: LEONARD T. PINEDA I ILOILO CITY, May 16 (PIA6) --- Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Director Larry Nacionales is optimistic that Western Visayas will attain its rice production target of 2,891,072 metric tons (mt) for 2014 with a noted increase in production for the first quarter of this year.

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n a media release, Nacionales said that Western Visayas has a total production of 583,873 metric tons for the first quarter of this year compared to the 498,038 mt in 2013.

“The region got an increase of 17.2 percent in rice production in the first quarter of 2014 as compared to the same period last year despite the heavy agricultural damage brought by super typhoon Yolanda”, he said.

The province of Guimaras obtained the highest production increase of 86.5 percent with the total production of 11,693 mt compared to 6,271 mt last year; followed by Iloilo with 43.8 percent increase with 294,139 mt compared to 204,618 mt; Negros Occidental, 3.4 percent increase with 88,750 mt compared to 85,859 mt; and Antique,

3.4 percent with 61,090 mt compared to 59,109 mt.

He said that factors for the increased rice production were the f a v o r a b le w e a t h e r c on d i t ion a n d staggered rain showers late last year that enabled farmers to intensify third cropping rice planting and were harvested first quarter of 2014.

On one hand, the provinces of Aklan and Capiz which were badly hit by super typhoon Yolanda suffered decrease in their rice production.

Aklan had a 14.8% decrease in production with 38,534 mt compared to 45,231 mt last year and Capiz with a 7.5% decrease with 89,667 mt compared to 96,950 mt in 2013.

The DA official said that certified seeds (CS) and fertilizer intervention, fuel subsidy

and cash for work program to the Yolanda affected areas also prompted rice farmers to till their respective farms early and utilize them.

DA-6 has distributed a total of 6,986 bags of CS amounting to P8,383,200.00 while the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has distributed 9,698 bags of CS amounting to P11,637,600.00.

For the fertilizer assistance, DA 6 has distributed 992 bags of complete fertilizer, 345 bags of muriate of potash and 160 liters of foliar fertilizer amounting to P1,999,532.00 while the FAO distributed 9,698 bags of urea amounting to P8,728,200.00.

“Each beneficiary receives one bag of CS and one bag fertilizer per hectare with a maximum of three bags for farmers with more than three hectares in affected areas,” added Nacionales. (LTP/DA/PIA-Iloilo)

72 OWWA scholarship slots still open BY: LILIBETH A. FRENCH ILOILO CITY, May 12 (PIA6) - - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (OFWDSP). ualified to the scholarship are incoming assistance per school year for a baccalaureate college freshmen of OFW parents who or associate degree in a state college or have a monthly salary of not more than university.

US$400.

Bartolome said 19 incoming first “We would like to give opportunity to the year college dependents of OFWs in children of our OFWs whose salary is within the region also passed the examination given the bracket to pursue their college education by the Department of Science and through this scholarship,” said Director Ron Technology-Science Education Institute last Lionel Bartolome of OWWA 6. year and qualified as scholars under Successful applicants to the program are t h e E d u c a t i o n f o r D e v e l o p m e n t entitled to a maximum of P20,000.00 financial Scholarship Program (EDSP) this school year

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6 is still looking for 72 scholars under its 2014 – 2015.

The new EDSP scholars will receive a maximum education assistance of P60,000.00 per school year for a four-to-five year baccalaureate course in any college or university of their choice.

Interested dependents who want to avail of the scholarship may visit the OWWA 6 Office at Robinsons Place Iloilo City or call telephone number (033) 509-1075 for more details. (JCM/LAF/PIA6)

DOLE says industrial peace exists in Antique BY: VICENTE W. VILLAVERT SAN JOSE, Antique, May 15 (PIA6) - - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said that the province has a generally peaceful labor condition.

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The good labor-management relations, and workplace dispute resolution here could be attributed for the industrial peace situation in the province,” said DOLE Antique Provincial Director Rene Santamena.

Director Santamena said in a PIA interview that only one labor strike was recorded in the province concerning the coal mine workers but was immediately addressed.

Santamena said that there is no active organized labor group in Antique “except in

Semirara, Caluya where there are two labor unions but they are not as militant as before because the concerned workers’ were already given their compensation/benefits.”

Santamena however observed that the workers here are passive and comfortable with what they are receiving from the management.

He said the daily rate is at P287.00 per day in those establishments employing more than 10 workers.

The DOLE Antique director said that they are currently making an effort to come up with

a record of employment/unemployment situation in the province. “We need that kind of data, and we rely only on the data of the NSO but the data is somewhat old and not appropriate with the present situation.

We at the DOLE lack manpower to conduct a survey, but we are trying to get facts and figures so that we could provide people who come to our office asking for some information about the labor situation of the province,” Santamena said.(JCM/VWV/ PIA-Antique)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Cebu to host local planners convention Silliman University in Dumaguete City

BY: FERLIZA C. CONTRATISTA

CEBU CITY, May 13 (PIA) --- Local development planners in the country will hold their national convention in Cebu next week.

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ngr. Christine Homez, President of Local League of Local Planning and Development Coordinators of the Philippines Inc (LLPDCPI)-Cebu Chapter, said they are expecting more than a hundred participants from all over the country.

The event’s theme is “Role of Development Planners in the Promotion of Smart Local Government Units” which will run from May 19 to 23 at the newly renovated Grand Convention Center in Archbishop Reyes.

Vice President Jejomar Binay, who heads the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, will give his keynote

address on May 20.

There will also be messages from Secretary Arsenio Balicasa of the Socio Economic Planning of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III and president of the National League of Municipalities, Tuburan Mayor Democrito Diamante.

The topics to be discussed during the convention include, “Use of Technologies in promoting Smart LGU’s” and “Public-Private Partnership in Promoting Smart LGU’s”.

There will be guest speakers from NEDA, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Philippine Atmospheric

Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). The planners who will attend, according to Homez, are from the academe and the government sector.

LLPDCPO is an association of planning and development coordinators of all local government units in the country. From provinces, cities and municipalities.

The members, Homez said, are united with a common interest and commitment for the rationalization of development planning as a profession and imbued by ideas to bring about socio-economic progress in their respective jurisdiction and the nation. (rmn/ FCC/PIA7-Cebu)

DENR, PIA firm up agreement on climate change campaign BY: REY ANTHONY H. CHIU TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, May 10 (PIA) – The Department of Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) firmed up an agreement to rationalize the implementation of a nationwide Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation programs in the hope of getting a dent on the apathy building in Philippine communities.

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he campaign is the latest in the environment agency’s efforts to mitigate the effects of global warming by convincing people and communities to adopt climate change adaptations and insulate their communities from the impacts of weather changes and patterns.

The DENR admits that Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation campaigns have been implemented but there remains in the country, significant number of communities which are way too far from disaster preparedness and adaptation mitigations.

During a recent PIA-DENR Visayas Mindanao Cluster Orientation on Climate Change Advocacy campaign held here at the

Alona Kew Resort in Panglao May 6-8, authorities from both agencies relayed to the regions the urgency of cascading climate change concepts to communities.

The move is to counter and crumble the building indifference, a risky behavior among people in communities that are exposed to the dangers which climate change brings.

Environment Public Affairs Office OIC Director Maria Sabrina Cruz, in her message to DENR Regional Public Affairs Office personnel and PIA Regional Directors for Visayas and Mindanao urged government think tanks to run better thought-of programs to produce unique campaign results.

Earlier, PIA Director General Jose Mari

Oquinena pointed out that there is a reason to suspect that environment campaigns need to change perspectives of people and communities.

Oquinena said there is this belief that climate change is somebody else’s fault, that the main objective should be to weaken public apathy so adaptation can be pushed through effectively.

After this, it would not be hard to inspire, motivate and then ask them to participate and foster partnerships and networks, he hinted.

Climate Change has a wide environmental impact on different wide bases so much so that mitigation and disaster resilience is the most desired response. (mbcn/rahc/PIA7-Bohol)

8th Gabii sa Kabilin to present ‘The Rise of the Queen’ on May 30 BY: JUJU MANUBAG-EMPUERTO CEBU CITY, May 13 (PIA) --- The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) Culture and Heritage Unit and its partners will be holding the 8th run of the Anvil-awarded "Gabii sa Kabilin" on May 30. he Gabii sa Kabilin is an annual event Philippines. children’s activities, contests, food fairs and here where museums and With Cebu poised to become a global and other activities. heritage places are open to guests more livable city, "the story of the rise of Cebu Guests will have to walk or ride buses and from 6 p.m. to 12 midnight every last Friday of would be retold in the Gabii sa Kabilin". tartanillas in order to get to the participating May. Tickets are priced at P150 while sites.

The Gabii sa Kabilin 2014 will be admission is free for children aged seven and Participants are advised to dress participated in by more than 35 museums and below. comfortably, especially with the footwear, such heritage sites across the cities of Cebu, The P150 ticket is an admission ticket for as rubber shoes or anything light weight as the Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue and Talisay joining in this all the destinations, with unlimited Gabii sa tour requires a lot of movement. one-night celebration, said RAFI-Cebu Kabilin-designated bus rides and one tartanilla The e-form of the Gabii sa Kabilin Guide Executive Director Dr. Jocelyn Gerra. (horse-drawn carriages) trip within the city’s Booklet, which provides detailed information The theme for this year’s GSK is “The old district. about the participating sites and their Rise of the Queen,” with the focus on how The ticket may be purchased and reserved presentations as well as the mapss of the tour Cebu, the “Queen City of the in advance at any of the participating routes, will be available for download on May South", developed and became the most dmuseums and cultural sites.

16 at www.rafi.org.ph or www.facebook.com/ prominent metropolis in this part of the Guests will enjoy cultural shows, exhibits, rafi.org.ph. (rmn/JSME/PIA-Cebu)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Silliman University in Dumaguete City

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Army renews commitment to maintain peace & order BY: ROI ANTHONI B. LOMOTAN

TANJAY CITY, Negros Oriental, May 13 (PIA) – The 302nd ―Achiever‖ Infantry Brigade (IB) of the Philippine Army based in Negros Oriental renews its commitment in securing peace and order throughout the province in celebration of its 40th founding anniversary.

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uring the celebration at Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City on May 12, Brigadier Gen. Francisco Patriomonio again assured the Negrenses that the military will intensify its efforts to make the province insurgency free.

“We pledge to intensify our efforts and maintain our commitment to achieve an insurgency free area not only in Negros Oriental but in areas we have operations as well,” BGen. Patrimonio said.

In his speech during the event, Patrimonio mentioned the recent achievement of the province being the declared as “conflict manageable and development ready” province.

However, this declaration still signifies a more peaceful and secured environment for the province and makes it more attractive for investments, business and tourism which translates to prosperity and improved lives for Negrenses.

BGen. Patrimonio added that this could not be achieved if not because of the collective efforts of different stakeholders. Patrimonio expressed his gratitude to the local government units,

non-government organizations and national government agencies for their support in the army’s peace initiatives.

He particularly mentioned the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) who helped in addressing issues that have been exploited by insurgents.

Meanwhile, Major Gen. Aurelio Baladad, Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army and the event’s keynote speaker lauded the 302nd IB for its achievements in the past years.

Baladad mentioned the recent accomplishments of the brigade including the best brigade for 2013 and 2013 best battalion for the 11th Infantry Battalion.

He also cited that the 302nd Brigade as the only brigade that is successful in conducting Bayanihan team activities with stakeholders in areas infested by rebels.

Baladad said the celebration of the 40th founding anniversary of the 302nd IB with the theme

“40th year of service towards peace and development” signifies what the brigade has done in the past years and what will it be doing in the future.

It is also a celebration of partnership with stakeholders who helped them realized the vision of a more peaceful province.

MGen. Baladad stressed that cooperation with stakeholders made it possible for the delivery of services of the government to hinterland areas.

With this, he continues to make a call for a strong collaboration to ensure sustainability in peace, stability and development efforts to the whole province.

Baladad pledged that the 3rd ID will continue to give support in securing peace and order in Negros Oriental.

With the recent achievements in peace and order, the Philippine Army strives to make the province insurgency free in its areas of operation including the 5th District of Negros Occidental while maintaining Siquijor as an insurgency free province. (mbcn/ral/PIA7-NegOr)

DENR-7 exceeds 42% in seedling production BY: HAZEL F. GLORIA CEBU CITY, May 13 (PIA) --- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) exceeded its target of 42% or 4,618,688 in seedling production from the agency’s target of 11,070,200 under the National Greening Program (NGP) in Central Visayas.

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We have been very aggressive in producing seedlings of various tree species mostly indigenous or native and agro-forestry in preparation for tree planting and growing activities,” according to DENR 7 Regional Executive Director Dr. Isabelo Montejo.

Of the total, Cebu province generated 1,942,927 seedlings; Bohol with 1,506,610 seedlings; Negros Oriental with 1,142,651 seedlings; and Siquijor province with 26,500 seedlings.

The production of seedlings were contracted by a number of people who also

helped in reducing poverty in the upland areas and ensured food security.

Said program promotes biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation and adaptation.

“Our forests are important in providing stable watershed function and nutrients, steady supply of food and shelter for wildlife, adequate supply of seeds and wildlings, protection from heavy rains and storms, windbreaker, prevention of flash floods and landslides and revival of biodiversity,” Montejo added.

Meanwhile, a grassland fire was reported in the 2011 NGP plantations established in

Campatoc Cagawasan, Dagohoy in Bohol last April 30.

According to the report released

by DENR-7, the forest fire damaged around 3.1 hectares with 1,550 trees.

Said area is maintained by the Cagawasan Farmers Association (CAFA) with the cause of fire still under further investigation.

Montejo said that the fire brigades have been in full operation as they are continuously conducting regular monitoring and intensive information, education and communication efforts with the communities. (rmn/HFG/PIA-7/ DENR-7)

DTI holds diskwento caravan in Bayawan City BY: LEANDRIA P. PAGUNSAN DUMAGUETE CITY (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in partnership with the local government of Bayawan City spearheaded the Balik Eskwela Diskwento Caravan at the Bayawan City Gym and Quadrangle on May 15-17, 2014 s major distributor and supplier of items were also offered by Island Merchants for parents were also provided during the school supplies, Lee Super Plaza led C o r p o r a t i o n / N e s t l e P h i l s . , N e p a n caravan. the caravan.

Sales/Unilever Phils., National Food Parlor games, larong pinoy were also Low priced school supplies such Authority (NFA) PD888/Colgate Palmolive, conducted by the Pan Hellenic Society and as notebooks, pad papers and other Macro Distributors/Procter & Gamble, Skills Enhancement Games sponsored by ABC school items including school bags, shoes El Real, Purefoods and Gardenia Bakeries Phils., president Arnie Teves. were be offered for sale during the Inc. "Gimmick Time" were conducted by the caravan. This is in time for the school opening Appliances, computers, furnitures were participating distributors as a way of promoting come June 2014. also offered by Emcor Inc. and United their products and for consumers to win Big discounts were given to customers Motoliance Network, Bayawan City branch prizes. and retailers who purchased in bulk on school with big discounts. RACAL Motorycle will also There were major prizes for the supplies and other household items. join in the caravan. lucky "Wais nga Konsyumer". (mbcn/LPP/PIA7 Big discounts and bundling of grocery Free haircut for students and free massage -Negros Oriental)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

16 Leyte LGUs get AWS from WPF Liceo de Verbo Divino (formerly Divine Word University) in Tacloban City

BY: ERLINDA OLIVIA P. TIU

ORMOC CITY, Leyte, May 10 (PIA) – The Weather Philippines Foundation (WPF) an non-government organization focusing on climate change adaptation recently turned over here automatic weather stations to 16 local government units of Leyte.

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n automatic weather station is a weather sensor that senses global radiation (solar), wind direction, wind speed, temperature, pressure, rainfall and precipitation.

WPF general manager Celso Caballero III explained how a weather station can help prepare LGUs for extreme weather conditions.

"These equipment are the basis for

the forecast of weather conditions. Super computers in Taguig and Switzerland process the information coming from the weather stations," Caballero said.

The weather stations are given free to the LGUs. The data and information collated feed into the WFP website.

Caballero disclosed that WPF is set to give more automatic weather stations to 13 LGUs in Southern Leyte on May 23,

2014.

The NGO's goal is to put 1,000 equipment to locations around the country.

Around 29 LGUs from Leyte and Southern Leyte - some of the provinces worst hit by Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) - participated in the event which tackled disaster mitigation in the face of extreme weather conditions. (PIA 8)

Multi-sectoral approach strengthens advocacy on road injury prevention By: CONSUELO B. ALARCON TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 12 (PIA) – A multi-sectoral approach from all stakeholders could prevent injuries and deaths caused by road traffic accidents, Winnie Dorego of the Department of Health (DOH) in the region said.

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uring the first quarterly meeting of the Road Traffic Injury Prevention – Technical Working Group (RTIP –TWG) Meeting held recently at Asia Stars Hotel, this city, Dorego emphasized the importance of working together to achieve a 50% reduction of road traffic accidents which has become a public health problem being one of the leading cause of death and disabilities in the Western Pacific Region where the Philippines is situated.

Based on 2013 WHO report, it disclosed that about one-quarter of the

world’s road traffic deaths occur in the Western Pacific Region where the Philippines is a member and about 300 deaths occur due to traffic accidents and millions suffered from temporary or permanent disability.

In the Philippines, there is a varying degree of deaths per 100 thousand people. From 2007 to 2008, there is a .5% decrease of the number of deaths due to road traffic accidents.

Moreover, a research conducted from 2008 to 2012 in several hospitals in the city by a JICA volunteer named Mitsunami

Yokokama has revealed a remarkable decrease in the number of road traffic injuries particularly in the city of Tacloban.

From 1, 453 cases in 2009 it went down to 950 in 2012 showing a remarkable decrease in the number of injuries due to traffic accidents.

However, despite this trend, the RTIP -TWG felt it necessary to strengthen advocacy in order to create public awareness and understanding of the effects of the risk factors. Otherwise, this might become the 4th leading cause of death in the world by 2030. (PIA-8)

K-12 pioneer studes in Leyte graduate May 30 By: Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 10 (PIA) – The pioneering batch of the Department of Education's (DepEd) K to 12 Program in two pilot schools in Leyte will be graduating on May 30 of this year.

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alo Mayor Remedios L. Petilla said the first batch of K to 12 students from the Palo National High School and the Merida Vocational School will graduate on May 30 at the upper floor of the Palo Municipal Hall.

This is a very important historical event, Mayor Petilla said as she disclosed that no less than the President of the Philippines and the secretary of Education have been invited to grace the graduation.

It was learned that in a recent assessment made by the DepEd and the Provincial Government of Leyte, about 200 students of Grades 11 and 12 took the K to 12 Program Modeling

Implementation for two years.

The students come from Palo National High School and Merida Vocational School and are under the Income Creating Opportunities Thru Technology Projects (ICOT-P) of then Leyte governor and now Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho L. Petilla which is being continued under the term of Governor Leopoldo Dominic Petilla.

Some private firms committed to hire the students under tourism, information and communications technology (ICT), automotive and metals, and engineering sector.

The DepEd in Eastern Visayas has initiated the modelling, in consortium with

the Provincial Government of Leyte, T e c h n i c a l E d u c at io n a n d S k i l l Development Authority (Tesda), Commission on Higher Education (Ched), and the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges Eastern Visayas Chapter.

Governor Petilla said DepEd can now assess what are needed to improve the implementation of the program in the Philippines.

The shift in the country’s education system started in 2012 with the universal kindergarten program. Filipino children aged five years old are now required to spend two years in kindergarten before entering Grade 1. (PIA 8)

EASTERN VISAYAS

Liceo de Verbo Divino (formerly Divine Word University) in Tacloban City

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8,663 volunteers join GK Bayani Challenge in Daram, Samar By: Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, May 12 (PIA) — Gawad Kalinga gathered the support of 8,663 volunteers who joined the four- day GK Bayani Challenge in Daram, Samar which ended May 11.

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Volu n teeris m is a ch allen ge because our place is an island,” Daram, Samar Mayor Lou Astorga uttered during her opening message.

“Transportation pa lang, mahirap na.

Thank you for being part of Bayani Challenge, naipapakitang lahat may parte, lahat importante," she added.

GK representative Jeff Segumalian reported that there were about 207 GK youth volunteers from different towns and provinces in Northern Luzon who conducted “Paraisong Pambata” to 1,000 kids in the island.

He also reported that six schools were refurbished, while fifty-eight barangays joined the clean-up drive and

were able to clear the 207 kilometers of the island’s coastal area.

In addition, some 90 youngsters benefited from the free circumcision conducted by GK volunteers.

Segumalian added that 200 Talisay seedlings were planted in different areas in the said town. (PIA 8-Samar with Avha Ebalde)

CSC conducts orientation workshop on SPMS By: Teresita Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar, May 9 (PIA) – The Civil Service Commission conducted a two-day orientation workshop on strategic performance management system (SPMS) at the local government unit of Mondragon on May 8-9.

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SC Provincial Director Ma. Natividad L. Costibolo said SPMS promotes morale, efficiency, integrity, responsiveness and courtesy in the civil service, the commission adopts measures to strengthen the merit and reward, integrates all human resources development programs for all level and ranks, and institutionalizing a management

climate conducive to public accountability.

Costibolo said SPMS is focused on linking individual performance vis-a-vis the agency’s organizational vision, mission and strategic goals.

Further, she said that the Constitution mandates to continuously foster excellence, efficiency and accountability, and the establishment of

p erf or m an c e e v a lu at ion s y ste m forms part of the authorities and functions of the civil service commission.

This is but one way of seeing to it that all our government employees are working hand in hand for a common good, therefore it will serve as their guide in administering public office, she added.

(PIA8-Northern Samar)

World Vision continues to build-back-better By: Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 9 (PIA) - World Vision continuous to help rebuild 14,000 houses, six months after super typhoon Haiyan wrought havoc and devastation to an estimated 16 million Filipinos in Central Philippines.

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n a statement sent to the Philippine Information Agency, World Vision said as response work transitioned from emergency to recovery, assistance has reached out to over 713,000 people at 533 villages in 48 municipalities.

The unconditional cash transfer program, aimed at supporting people as they gradually move to recovery, has assisted 14,217 families. Initiatives on water, sanitation and hygiene have provided relief to 53,755 families.

To date, 5,890 people have attended the workshops in 32 barangays (villages), over a thousand of them women across the provinces.

In education, 19 schools are being repaired and rebuilt in Leyte province and three in Panay Island on negotiation.

Twenty-five health centers are being rebuilt and provided with medical

equipment needed across the Haiyan-hit provinces.

World Vision also provided 17,777 hygiene kits to 63 elementary schools and day care centers.

A memorandum of agreement with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has been reached for a Skills Training Program (Train to Build Back Better) that will enhance the capacity of workers in carpentry and other livelihood skills.

The Cash-For-Work program has assisted close to 2,000 individuals who worked on clearing debris, as well as community and school clean-ups, among other activities; an additional 5,000 people have started the cash-for-work activity this week.

A total of 22,000 children has participated in World Vision’s Child

Friendly Spaces across seven affected provinces.

Response Director Andrew Rosauer, impressed with the Filipinos’ rise from the destruction, says, “The communities have been very active in leading their own recovery and we are amazed at the pace they are progressing.

We are confident that more sustainable recovery outcomes can be accomplished in the coming months with the aid donors, sponsors, local government agencies and the affected communities.

World Vision’s recovery phase is now focused on shelter, livelihood, education, health, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and disaster risk reduction (DRR). Its areas of operations are in Eastern Leyte, Western Leyte, North Cebu and Panay Island. (PIA 8)

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) 3378718/3377301 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