One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 4 Issue 12

Vol 4

Issue 12

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Gawad Kalinga (GK) Iloilo Head Mary Rose Cacho and GK Special Projects Head Jose Maria “Boy” Montelibano (2nd and 3rd from L) together with Ajuy Mayor Juancho Alvarez hands in the replica of the 55 motorized banca to Brgy. Captain Dan Labid (L) during the GK Balangay program turnover ceremony held in Brgy. Punta Buri National High School, Ajuy, Iloilo, March 25. (PIA 6/EJB)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

CENTRAL VISAYAS

National Tuberculosis Program (NTP) Regional Coordinator Jocelyn Tabotabo (far left) presents the status of National Tuberculosis Program Implementation and Future Plans before the guests, awardees, and representatives of partner agencies of TB program in Region -7 during the World TB Day with the theme "Stop TB. Magpakabana.

Dali Na!" at the Cebu Parklane International Hotel on March 25, 2014. (VVV/PIA CEBU)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

EASTERN VISAYAS

U n i te d Na ti o n s D e vt Pr o g ram m e Administrator Helen Clark leads the ceremonial ribbon cutting of the new UNDP and other UN offices building located at Balyuan grounds, Tacloban City, March 26.

(Photo by Raul Tiozon/PIA-8)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Also CLICK Here...

Mar. 24 - Mar. 30, 2014

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Sec. Abad: RDC-7 project proposals must be in line with BPF BY: FAYETTE C. RIÑEN CEBU CITY, March 25 (PIA) – Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad told members of the Regional Development Council (RDC-7) that projects for proposed funding should be aligned with the Budget Priority Framework (BPF) of the National Government.

Abad was the special guest during the recent RDC-7 1st quarterly Full Council Meeting held in Cebu City.

Abad said the BPF determines the priorities of the Aquino Administration until the end of the President‟s term in 2016.

“Projects that are submitted for funding that are not tuned in to the Budget Priority Framework will never be approved,” bared Abad to over 40 attendees that include local chief executives within the four provinces of Central Visayas, heads and representatives of regional line agencies, private sector, civil society groups and media.

According to Abad, there are four thrusts under the BPF which the administration believes is essentially critical to maintain the Philippines positive economic performance -- huge investments in social protection, generating employment and livelihood, continue expanding the economy and investments in climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Abad cited some priority programs under the social services, primary of which is the anti-poverty alleviation program Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino or 4Ps whose annual budget is increasing year after year.

Second priority under the BPF is generating employment and livelihood programs, foremost of which is the increased budget for

infrastructure development to spur investments that create jobs such as in the area of tourism and agri-business, said Abad.

Abad said the third is continuing the economic expansion found in certain sectors such as tourism, a high performer of economic growth. Other areas he cited here are the business process outsourcing, agri-business and infrastructure.

The fourth priority area under the BPF is investments in climate change mitigation and adaptation such as geohazard mapping and the 18 major river basins given priority under the government‟s National Greening Program.

Abad said the four thrusts underline the priority programs that fulfill President Aquino‟s social contract with the Filipino people that ultimately redound to inclusive social growth. (rmn/FCR/PIA-7)

Sec. Florencio “Butch” Abad. (PIA file photo)

PNoy commends PIA for steadfast information dissemination especially in times of disasters By: Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu MANILA, March 23 (PIA) - President Benigno S. Aquino III commended the Philippine Information Agency for its steadfast dissemination of timely, relevant and useful information especially in times of calamities, which in turn has saved lives many Filipinos caught in disasters.

The President made the pronouncement in his keynote speech during the 16th Philippine Quality Award (PQA)-Recognition for Commitment to Quality Management award rites held on March 20 at the Rizal Hall in Malacañang Palace where PIA is among the recipients of the PQA. Four other institutions, namely the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)- Region XI; Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU)-Manila; Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA); and Zamboanga Polymedic Hospital, Inc. were also bestowed the same recognition.

President Benigno S. Aquino III presented the trophy to the recipients, assisted by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Gregory L. Domingo, Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) President Antonio D. Kalaw, and Philippine Society for Quality, Inc. President Florendo Maranan, among others.

In his keynote speech, President Aquino (PNoy) also lauded all PQA awardees for their pursuit of quality in their processes, services, and organizational management as it "would greatly contribute to the improvement of the quality of lives of Filipinos."

The President exhorted this year‟s recipients to “continue to uphold a culture of quality and competence, and shun mediocrity, as this would help Filipinos achieve empowerment, progress, and prosperity, in a society of inclusiveness and opportunity.”

Meanwhile, PIA Director General Jose Mari Oquiñena, who

received the award together with PCOO USEc Syliangco representing Secretary Sonny Coloma, said that the award is a recognition of PIA‟s excellence in providing the Filipino people with the right information that they need in decision-making and in becoming empowered citizens. “The PQA is a recognition of this (PIA‟s) core value”, he said, adding that all the Staff and Regional Directors and the PQA support staff were present during the awarding.

DG Oquiñena cited the Agency's task during super typhoon Yolanda where PIA, through its Text Blast facility, website, and social media accounts such as the Weather Watch, provided advance information to the public about the incoming typhoon.

The aftermath of the typhoon was also a crucial time for the agency, he said, as it served as information hub for inquiries on lost relatives, instructions on how to avail of government services, and for inquiries on other government services as well.

The Philippine Quality Award Program is a global competitiveness template that aims to encourage and engage public and private organizations and other stakeholders to strive for and attain performance excellence.

It is a national award program that recognizes achievements of public and private sector organizations in their journey towards performance excellence.

The PQA, which was created through Executive Order 448 on Oct. 3, 1997 and was institutionalized in 2001 through Republic Act 9013, provides for a standard of excellence to help Filipino organizations achieve world-class performance in quality management and overall organizational performance and industry competitiveness.

The PQA Committee is composed of leaders from respected government agencies and private entities, with the Department of Trade and Industry as the Award Implementing Agency. (PIA 8)

DOST: Use S&T to make communities safer BY: LILIBETH A. FRENCH ILOILO CITY, March 25 (PIA6) - - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on Monday called on local chief executives and disaster managers in this part of the country to develop the capacity to understand and use science and technology in making their communities safer and more prepared for disasters.

“In our communities, you the local chief executives and disaster managers serve as the first receivers of information and warnings and act as first responders during calamities. It is therefore, imperative that you develop that capacity to understand and translate these science based information and warnings into response strategies, policies and actions within your local area of responsibility,” said DOST Secretary Mario Montejo.

Montejo who is also the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Vice-Chair for Prevention and Mitigation said that while the occurrence of natural hazards cannot be prevented, potential disaster risk in communities can be mitigated. In his message during the opening ceremonies of a conference workshop conducted by the department here until March 26, Montejo highlighted that use of science to better understand and improve disaster planning and preparations at the national and local levels.

“Applying science, we can draw up scenario-based strategies and protocols in dealing with calamities: from emphasizing early

warning and early action to achieve minimum loss that can then lead to quick recovery,” said Montejo. The two-day conference workshop participated in by almost 300 local chief executives and DRRMOs, heads and representatives of national government agencies and other stakeholders in Western Visayas is part of the launching activity of DOST‟s „Iba na ang Panahon: Science for Safer Communities‟ program in the region.

Montejo said „Iba na ang Panahon‟ embraces the change in seasonal climate and weather patterns as well as the severity of the impact of weather-related natural hazards in the country.

It also highlights the availability of new tools such as the latest high-resolution maps, flood modeling solutions and advanced weather forecasting tools, among others, to allow scientists to study hazards and bring better forecast warnings down to communities.

The workshop also included presentations on local geologic hazards and warning systems and hydrometeorological and geological hazards in the region, as well as those meant to allow provincial and municipal chief executives to better understand their communities and the risks present therein.

In Western Visayas, DOST has teamed up with the regional offices of Office of Civil Defense, Department of the Interior and Local Government and Philippine Information Agency in implementing the program. (JCM/LAF/PIA6)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

DOLE sets P1.9M for Antique SPES BY: PILAR S. MABAQUIAO

Agbalo Bridge in Pontevedra, Capiz

SAN JOSE, Antique, (PIA6) – As summer vacation nears, students are again looking forward to a break from school activities. For low-income families, summer break is also an opportunity to work and earn income in preparation for the opening of classes come June.

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o help these families, the Department of Labor and E mp l o ym en t h a s a ll ot t ed P1,993,200 for Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) for the Province of Antique.

The total allocation of DOLE according to Provincial Director Rene Santamena is intended for 964 students following the minimum wage rate or amount determined by the local

government units concerned.

Provincial Director Rene Santamena said 18 employers have committed to join the SPES program wherein 60 percent of the wages of these economically marginalized students be paid by the participating employers and 40 percent by DOLE. The 18 employers who have committed to join are Provincial Government of Antique, 12 municipal

governments, two private schools, one university and two business establishments.

DOLE enjoined the employers to submit the necessary requirements for the release of funds to avoid delay especially during payment time. Likewise, Santamena urged the students to save their earnings and give priority to their school needs once they receive their wages. (JCM/PSM/ PIA6 Antique)

LGUs train on climate change software BY: LEONARD T. PINEDA I ILOILO CITY, March 26 (PIA6) --- Some 30 participants from the local government units of Dumangas, Passi City, and Zarraga in Iloilo trained recently on the use of Climate Change Exposure Database (ClimEx.DB) software to better equip them on disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation.

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he training conducted by the Climate Change Commission (CCC), in partnership with the University of the Philippines Visayas, was part of the Resilience Capacity Building for Cities and Municipalities to Reduce Disaster Risks from Climate Change and Natural Hazards or Project ReBUILD Phase 1.

The ClimEx.DB is a computer software developed to assist local government units in crafting their Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) for it can locate the exact position of houses, buildings, farm field, or any economic and industry-related infrastructure with the

use of the Global Positioning System.

The computer software can also determine if a structure is located in a disaster-prone area such as being within a flood-risk zone, in an earthquake-prone area, or in sites that are easily affected by calamities.

The software also contains the list of geo-hazard compliant evacuation sites where evacuation centers can be established, and policies and ordinances regarding disaster planning, response, rehabilitation and recovery.

The participants were introduced to Project ReBUILD and the Climex.DB exposure database, the Climex.DB server

set-up and operation, tablet operation, and survey planning operation.

They also underwent field operations for the onsite testing of the Climex.DB survey application in Brgy. Balud 1, Zarraga town.

Project ReBUILD is funded by the New Zealand Aid Programme and administered by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

The project aims to assess the disaster vulnerabilities of the cities and municipalities surrounding the Jalaur River Basin here to geological, meteorological and meteorologically-induced hazards due to climate change. (JSC/LTP-PIA6 Iloilo)

GK launches new village, turns over fishing boats in N. Iloilo AJUY, Iloilo, March 26 (PIA6) – Gawad Kalinga broke ground for a new GK Village and turned over motorized bancas for beneficiaries who were affected by typhoon “Yolanda” in northern Iloilo, during a two-day event held March 24-25.

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he new GK Village, the “Maria Assumpta Gawad Kalinga Village”, will provide houses to 40 families at the Ruth Tirol Jarantilla GK Site at Barangay Bacjawan Sur in Concepcion town.

Mrs. Jarantilla donated the lot for the project.

The groundbreaking ceremony was led by GK Special Projects In-Charge Jose Maria Montelibano from the national headquarters, GK Iloilo head Mary Rose Cacho, Sister Mary Sheryl Reyes, Provincial Superior of the Assumption Sisters, Concepcion town Mayor Milliard Villanueva, Ms. Ruth Tirol Jarantilla, and Punong Barangay Nonie Villarias.

The also represent the sectors that are the main proponents of the project. It will become the fourth GK village to be put up in the municipality.

Cacho said the new village will be included

in the Bayani Challenge 2014 multi-activity event slated to start in Iloilo, April.

The volunteerism showcase will include home rebuilding activities.

Mayor Villanueva said the municipal government will support the soon-to-rise village with basic necessities such as electricity and water supply.

On March 25, GK‟s Montelibano and Cacho turned over 55 units of motorized bancas to small fishermen of the island barangay of Punta Buri in Ajuy whose fishing boats, their chief means of livelihood, were damaged by the November 2013 super typhoon.

GK provided the funds for the construction of the fishing boats that ranged from P15, 000 to 20,000 each under its GK Balangay Project.

With the two GK officials for the

turnover were Ajuy Mayor Juancho Alvarez, Punong Barangay Dan Labid and other municipal and barangay officials.

Mayor Alvarez acknowledged Gawad Kalinga which he said was one of the first who responded to the call for help of his town.

The local chief executive thanked GK not only for the relief goods, repair of damaged GK houses and fishing boats but also for lifting the dignity of the people of Ajuy through their help. Punong Barangay Labid said that because of the help people in his barangay are gradually getting back on their feet.

It was also learned from the GK officials that they are also helping 45 typhoon-affected fishermen in Barangay Tagubanhan, also an island barangay of Ajuy, to have new fishing boats. (JSC-PIA6)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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‘Dugtong Buhay 5’ collects 60 blood bags Agbalo Bridge in Pontevedra, Capiz

BY: ALEX A. LUMAQUE

ROXAS CITY, Capiz, March 26 (PIA6) – Sixty voluntary blood donors have successfully donated blood during the 5th bloodletting activity of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and Capiz Association of Government Public Information Officers, Inc. (CAGPIO) last March 14 at the Capiz Medical Society (CMS) Building here.

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he day-long mass blood donation dubbed “Dugtong Buhay 5” is in response to the urgent need for blood in the province due to dengue cases and other clinical and hospital necessities to save lives.

Most of the voluntary blood donors were policemen, soldiers and government employees, said PIA Capiz Infocen Manager Jemin B. Guillermo.

“This also forms part of PIA‟s activities in view of the Women‟s Month

celebration,” she stressed.

The Dugtong Buhay project of PIA and CAPGIO has been a consistent awardee of the Philippine Red Cross – Capiz chapter for its regular contribution to the supply of blood at the local blood bank.

The first of the on-going series of bloodletting partnership of PIA and CAGPIO dates back to October 2011.

The recent mass blood donation was made successful through the support of

CAGPIO outgoing president and Capiz Police Provincial Office Public Information Officer SPO1 Donna B. Asmod as well as the association‟s incoming president and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Esperedion C. Pelaez.

CMS has also been supportive to the endeavor along with some CAGPIO member agencies, local government units and private individuals. (DOST/AAL-PIA6 Capiz)

Aklan typhoon victims get P5.3M check from PCSO BY: VENUS G. VILLANUEVA KALIBO, Aklan, March 26 (PIA6) -- A belated Christmas gift came the way of Typhoon Yolanda victims in Aklan with the visit here recently of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Ferdinand Joy Rojas bearing a check amounting to P5,321,000.00 which he turned over to the Provincial Government.

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n a radio interview over a local radio station here, GM Rojas said the check represented the charity share of the province of Aklan under the PCSO project “9 Days of Christmas” in December 2013.

Under the project, GM Rojas said proceeds of draws conducted by the PCSO 9 days before Christmas were earmarked for donation to the country‟s 9 provinces greatly devastated by Typhoon Yolanda.

Aklan‟s draw date schedule fell on December 22, which realized the said check amount.

Rojas said Aklan is the first province to receive the check under the project.

In the same interview over Barangay 92.9 Super Radyo Kalibo, Rojas said the PCSO has already purchased a lot in Kalibo where the agency could erect its own building.

He said this development will be a big help to Aklanons, as those needing

medical or financial assistance from the PCSO no longer have to go to Iloilo City or to Manila.

For his part, Aklan Governor Florencio T. Miraflores expressed his elation with the visit of GM Rojas in Aklan, saying he bore two good news – the delivery of Aklan‟s one-day Charity share and the establishment of a PCSO office in the province so its services will be accessible to indigent Aklanons. (JCM/ VGV-PIA6 Aklan)

All systems go for Panaad Festival BY: EASTER ANNE D. DOZA NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, March 24 (PIA6) - - More activities are lined up for this year‟s Panaad sa Negros Festival 2014 slated March 31 – April 6, to be held at the Panaad Park and Stadium, Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City, with the theme, “Organik na Negros: Rising to the Challenge of Globalization in 2015”.

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he first day of the festival will kick-off with a thanksgiving mass at the Panaad Stadium at 8 a.m. followed by the ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the Tourism and Agri-Trade Fair and Exhibits, Livestock and Dairy Products Fair and Eco-Garden Show.

At 2 p.m., a motorcade/Floats Parade will start from the Provincial Capitol to Panaad Park while the Opening Ceremony will start at 4:00 p.m. followed by the Festival Dances Competition and Fireworks Display at the Panaad Stadium.

GMA Network‟s “Kapuso” Night at the Panaad Stadium and RMN‟s Panaad Hip Hop Challenge 2014 at the Panaad Park Stage will be showcased at 8:00 p.m.

The Paindis-indis sa Composo kag Rondalla at the Panaad Stadium will start 6 p.m. on the second day of the festival, to be followed by the Organic Agriculture Advocacy Night at the Panaad Park Stage.

On the third day of the festival, Latin Dancesport Competition will start at 3:00 p.m. at

the Negros Occidental Multi-Purpose Activity Center, and Philippine Folk Dances Competition 7:00 p.m. at the Panaad Stadium.

There will be a Livelihood Skills Olympics on the fourth day spearheaded by TESDA starting 8 a.m. at the Panaad Covered Court while the Organic Agriculture Forum will be held at 9 a.m. at the Organic Village located at the LGU Pavilion Grounds.

The Little Lin-ay sang 2GO Pageant will be held at the Panaad Park Stage on the same day followed by the GMA Network‟s Kapuso Barangayan.

The Lin-ay sang Negros Pageant, showcasing 22 candidates, will be held on April 4, 2014 at the Panaad Stadium.

A Farmer‟s Day Celebration and Farmers Forum at the Panaad Covered Court starting 8:00 a.m. as well as the Outstanding Farmers, Fisherfolk and Livestock Raisers Awards with ABS-CBN Network at the Panaad Stadium at 4:00 p.m. will highlight the Panaad sa Negros

Festival celebration on April 5, to be followed by ABS-CBN‟s Kapamilya Fiesta Caravan featuring famous celebrities and artists from Manila at 6:00 p.m.

The Drum and Bugle Competition at the Panaad Football Field and the PAWS FOR A WHILE Dog Show at the Panaad Covered Court will be held simultaneously at 1:00 p.m. on the last day of the festival.

The Closing Ceremony, Awarding and Presentation of Winners will start 5:00 p.m. at the Panaad Stadium.

It will be capped by the traditional Fireworks Display and Panaad Drumbeating Showcase, and a band concert of the 303rd IB Philippine Army.

Panaad brings together the 32 local government units of Negros Occidental in an array of themed pavilions that showcase their history, arts and culture, tourism, commerce, trade and industry, at the Panaad Park and Sports Complex.*(JCM/EAD-PIA6/Capitol News Negros Occidental)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

NegOr launches Tourism Roadmap Cansaga Bay Bridge in Cebu

BY: JENNIFER C. TILOS

DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental, March 26 (PIA) --- The Negros Oriental Tourism Road Map was presented Friday to about 100 local stakeholders here to ensure support to the development of tourism as guide for sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the province.

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ith this blueprint, Governor Roel Degamo said his administration is bent on using tourism industry as the main component for creating both livelihood and employment opportunities for Negrenses.

“What is positive about NegOr tourism now, based on the data gathered the international tourist arrivals reached 463,359 in 2013, a 50 percent increase compared to 2012,” said Department of Tourism (DOT-7) regional director Rowena Montecillo.

Negros Oriental placed second in tourist arrivals in Central Visayas, next to Cebu province, Montecillo said.

The top ten foreign tourist visitors recorded in the province were Americans, Germans, French, Canadians, Britons, Australians, Chinese, Koreans, and Swiss nationals.

With the growing number of tourist arrivals or markets, the DOT director said the

tourism action plan will also have to align with the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) and identify the priority tourism development areas in the country.

The key development strategy-plan include product development, marketing and promotion which the stakeholders propose and continue to promote include diving in Apo Island; sun and beach; cruise and nautical tours; nature adventures; educational, sports and medical tourism; events and conventions and cultural heritage tours.

The roadmap was presented for the stakeholders to help make the plan work.

Different heads and representatives from government agencies, business and academe sectors, non-government organizations and local government units are asked in a workshop to push tourism programs and projects forward on three key strategies: product development and marketing and promotions; market access, connectivity and destination infrastructure; and tourism

institutional, governance and human resource capacities.

Subsequently, the local tourism players endorsed the first Negros Oriental Tourism Action Plan, as the governor thanked to the stakeholders for the support in the promotion of tourism industry in the province.

Meanwhile, some 4, 200 job opportunities are awaiting for Filipina skilled workers in Dubai up to 2016, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Information Officer Geraldine Delos Reyes announced yesterday.

Delos Reyes said these jobs include electrical installation and maintenance, plumbing, refrigeration and air conditioning for government institutions, hospitals and universities in the said country.

“These are male-identified jobs but the government of Dubai in Manila prefers woman especially TESDA certified female workers,” Delos Reyes said. (rmn/JCT/RAL/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

Cebu airport staff to undergo disaster preparedness training BY: RACHELLE M. NESSIA CEBU CITY, March 24 (PIA) --- Airport personnel at Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) will undergo a disaster preparedness workshop dubbed “Get Airports Ready for Disaster (GARD).”

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eutsche Post DHL (DPDHL) partnered with United Nations Deve lop men t Pro gra m me (UNDP) to conduct the workshop that will kick off on March 31, 2014.

The workshop aims to prepare airport personnel for emergencies caused

by natural disasters, such as handling high volumes of incoming goods and passengers in the aftermath of a disaster.

DPDHL and UNDP will train MCIA personnel to make post-disaster airport scenes less chaotic with the airport staff better prepared to facilitate relief.

GARD trainers and materials are provided for free by DHL while UNDP manages the project, leads the coordination with government authorities, and provides funds to shoulder workshop costs. (RMN/PIA Cebu)

6,000 mangrove propagules planted in CV on Int’l Day of Forests BY: AMORGANDA Y. SALUDAR Central Visayas, March 24 (PIA) --- In celebration of the International Day of Forests (IDY), more than 6,000 mangrove propagules covering about six hectares in various coastal areas in the four provinces in Central Visayas were simultaneously planted.

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aid initiative was held March 21 which has been declared by the United Nations as IDY to increase the level of awareness on the importance of forests.

In a press release, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-7) Regional Executive Director Dr. Isabelo Montejo said that “we have been organizing a mangrove planting and growing to ensure our coastal communities from the threats of storm surges and big waves as typhoon Yolanda taught us a lesson to improve our coastal areas with vegetation such as mangroves and other beach forests.”

Montejo said ”mangroves are salt tolerant, woody, seed-bearing plants ranging in size from small shrubs to tall trees.

They occur along sheltered intertidal coastlines and in association with estuaries and lagoons.”

In the province of Cebu alone, more than 2,000 mangroves were planted in Barangay Talaga, Argao town.

The mangrove plantation in Argao was participated in by nearly 200 participants from DENR-7, students, and some Argao local government unit personnel.

Montejo revealed that out of 70 mangrove tree species in the world, 34 occur in the Philippines, and one hectare of mangrove trees produces up to 3.6 tons of litterfall annually and one hectare of healthy mangrove ecosystem produces about 1.08 tons of fish per year.

Mangroves provide nursery grounds for fish, prawns and crabs, and support fisheries production in coastal waters; protect the environment by protecting coastal areas and communities from storm surges, waves, tidal currents and typhoons; produce organic biomass (carbon) and reduce organic pollution in nearshore areas by trapping or absorption.

Meanwhile, a lecture on the importance of forests was conducted in Yanaya National High School in Bilar, Bohol with more than 200 high school students.

Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO) Tagbilaran City Eusalem Quiwag served as a resource person. (rmn/AYS/PIA 7/DENR 7)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

Cansaga Bay Bridge in Cebu

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NEDA to hold geo-tagging training in Cebu

BY: RACHELLE M. NESSIA CEBU CITY (PIA) --- The National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) in Region 7 held a geo-tagging training on March 25 to 26, 2014 at the NEDA-7 Conference Room, this city.

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EDA is holding the training in line with its secretariat role at the Regional Development Council (RDC) to promote the use of geo-tagging as a tool in project monitoring.

The training hoped to encourage the use of geo-tagging as a common tool in monitoring development projects for greater efficiency and transparency.

It also aimed to provide a venue for the Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) to share with the local government units, line government agencies, and the private sector their experience in geo-tagging.

RPMC under the RDC is currently adopting geo-tagging as a tool in monitoring development projects around the region.

Geo-tagging is the process of adding geographic information such as longitude and latitude to a digital photograph which can be viewed on a map published in a website.

The training was attended by representatives from the cities of Carcar, Naga, Talisay, Danao, Cebu, Mandaue, LapuLapu and from the provinces of Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, as well as the private sector. Representatives from the following national government agencies in the

region are also expected to attend, namely: Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, National Irrigation Administration, Department of Education, Department of Budget and Management, Department of Interior and Local Government, and the Office of the President-Presidential Management Staff.

(RMN/PIA Cebu)

Bohol hosts int’l agri-forestry congress in 2014 BY: REY ANTHONY H. CHIU DAUIS, BOHOL, March 24 (PIA) – Bohol hosted the first International Agro-Forestry Congress, which organizers claim as the perfect event to recognize the potentials of agro-forestry in addressing the wide girthed bole of the country‟s development issues.

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eld at the Bohol Plaza Resort March 19-22, the congress hailed a variety of development issues where agro-forestry is evidently poised to make a good chance at impression, especially as the country attempts to battle environmental degradation, food security and climate change.

Philippine Agro-Forestry Education and Research Network Chair Dr. Roberto Visco said, he believes that sustainable development can only be achieved if the country can address the environmental, economic and social dimensions of development.

“Agroforestry strikes a balance among these three dimensions and it addresses socioeconomic productivity of farmer foresters while ensuring ecological stability,” he said in an after event interview.

The 16th congress in the Philippines and

the first in the region, Visco also said the decision to hold it in Bohol came even before the earthquake in October of 2013.

The earthquake, which left thousands of hilly agroforests and forest timberlands scarred as Bohol limestone cliffs could barely hold the trees on them, did not dampen the spirits of the country‟s agro foresters who has seen Bohol‟s forest cover.

Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto, who could not attend the Congress, in his sent message hailed the activity as such that it parallels with the Provincial vision and adopted strategies towards environment protection, natural heritage conservation and promotion of eco-cultural tourism.

In Bohol, where there has been a historical proof of agro-forestry with the Bohol Tree Enterprise Project and the Manmade Forests, there is a widespread understanding that agro-forestry addresses not just the

economic needs of the people, it also responds to the need to immediately provide the green cover and solve the problem of soil-run-off.

And just as mono-species agroforests were a trend in the 1970‟s, recent years opened up for Boholanos the need to go back to the indigenous species which have diminished drastically through the years.

With the introduction of a World Bank project called Assisted Natural regeneration (ANR) Bohol has seen the option to simply go for the indigenous and re-claim the forest cover it has lost within the last decades.

If only to assure people that Bohol still maintains a nursery for Bohol‟s famed dipterocarps and monocarps, the a nursery for indigeous trees stand proudly in Bilar.

Boholanos eager to replant trees can withdraw stocks and start re-growing the forests, sources at the Bohol Environment Management Office said. (mbcn/rahc/PIA7-Bohol)

DOST releases P980T to meat processor in Siquijor BY: RIZALIE A. CALIBO

SIQUIJOR, March 24 (PIA) ---- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)- Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC) has released P980,000 to one of the beneficiaries of its Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SET-UP).

R Food Shop owned by Imelda He said that upgrading of NR meat DOST will allow more than one assistance Rubio of Poblacion, Siquijor processing equipment will enhance efficient as long as the firm is a good payor, never received the check from DOST processed meat products, increase production, requested for re-alignment, and submit reports OIC-ARD for Technical Services Engr. Jesus F. product diversification and maintain quality on time.

Zamora, Jr. and Provincial Director Mario de la processed meat products.

Under the SETUP program, the agency Pena on March 14 at Larena Triad in Nonoc, Rubio said that she was happy with the gives technology assistance and innovation Larena, Siquijor.

DOST SETUP assistance because it support to Micro Small and Medium The turnover was witnessed by DOST 7 helps Siquijor SME‟s in their quest to further Enterprises (SMEs) to upgrade their production Inventory Team which conducted the improve their production, increase equipment, said de la Pena. inventory of equipment at Larena Triad. productivity, and enhance product quality.

It is a nationwide strategy to encourage The financial aid is intended for the De la Peña said that this is the second and assist MSME‟s to adopt technological upgrading of its production specifically the round of assistance they availed from innovations to improve their operations and upgrading of meat processing equipment, said DOST-SETUP. thus boost their productivity and Provincial Director Mario de la Pena of DOST The first was on metals and engineering competitiveness, he said. (RAC/PIA-Siquijor w/ here. sector. reports from MEP/DOST-Siquijor)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Soliman: Yolanda brings many lessons to DSWD Agas Agas--Agas Bridge in Southern Leyte

By: Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 24 (PIA) - Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Soliman disclosed that although the magnitude of „Yolanda‟ tested the national government‟s disaster management response system, the disaster has also brought many lessons to the Department.

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ecretary Soliman, speaking before more than a hundred stakeholders both local and foreign in the recently held Yolanda Transparency Forum in Tacloban City, said that these lessons will pave the way for an enhanced relief goods handling, warehousing and logistics, development of surge capacity teams, better disaster response system, and building safer and better-equipped evacuation centers that can withstand strong winds.

Secretary Soliman added that the Department is also looking into new approaches such as buy -back of foreign-donated tents from the internally displaced persons before moving to alternative

transitional houses, construction of additional alternative shelters for displaced families especially those living in „no-dwelling zones‟, and building of resilient core shelter units.

The Department will also enhance its policies on monitoring and distribution of donations and emergency procurement, Secretary Soliman said.

“We need to develop what we call „surge-capacity team‟, that can respond quickly to disaster-stricken areas.

The national government will also strengthen its quick response plan in crisis situation through regular review of previous disaster responses,” Sec. Soliman said.

The forum which carried the theme, “Enhancing Information -Sharing and Transparency in the Assistance to Yolanda Areas” aimed to look into the convergence and financing of multi-sectoral efforts for reconstruction.

It was convened by the UP Visayas Tacloban College and the UP School of Health Sciences, with the support of The Asia Foundation.

It was undertaken in close coordination with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), one of the agencies tasked to monitor the Foreign Aid Transparency Hub (FAiTH) and the NEDA. (PIA 8).

Top UNDP official visits Tacloban By: Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 27 (PIA) – In an effort to advance the United Nation‟s support to the development of the country particularly in typhoon Yolanda hardest hit areas, an official of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has visited the City of Tacloban, one of the areas hit by last year‟s super typhoon.

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NDP Administrator Helen Clark, former New Zealand Prime Minister, visited UNDP projects in Tacloban Wednesday where she met with some recipients of the livelihood assistance from the United Nations Development Program at Fisherman‟s Village Brgy. 88.

She also dropped by at San Jose Central Elementary School where the UNDP has provided assistance in the form of learning kits, water and sanitation facilities.

In her quick tour, Clark saw the progress where UNDP had been instrumental in debris clearing in many areas in the city.

In a brief interview with the local media, Clark said she was impressed the way people quickly recover from the devastation considering the severity brought by the super typhoon.

“I‟m impressed with what I‟ve seen…

I know how deep the scars in the people‟s hearts are. And there‟s a lot of trauma to deal with…My heart goes out to everybody.” Clark said.

Clark‟s visit paved the way for the opening of a new hub for UN agencies at Balyuan Building across the Tacloban City Hall.

With the opening of a new office, Mayor Alfred Romualdez of Tacloban seeks to consolidate and focus all

endeavors in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Tacloban City.

“It is also now that we see that we‟re all working as one, the international, the national and of course, the local government… altogether and all the other NGOs. So we can work together and assure our people that we care for them and we want to get things done”, Romualdez said.

Clark‟s visit assures the agency‟s commitment to stay in three years to continue working with the Yolanda-affected communities throughout the recovery process in the region particularly in Tacloban City. (PIA-8)

3 island towns in Samar ready for tourism BY: NINFA ILUMINDA B. QUIRANTE CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, March 27 (PIA) – The three island towns in Samar located off the Calbayog Coast are now ready to venture into tourism.

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his, after the army and the local peace and order council declared the three municipalities as „peaceful and ready for development‟ on Tuesday.

“We are thankful to the army for their efforts, now we are ready for a better economy and tourism,” said Sto Nino Mayor Lilia Conejos.

Sto Nino has two islands named Pilar and Camandag, it boosts of nature, rich marine life and friendly locals.

The commanding general of the 8th

Infantry Division, Philippine Army based in Catbalogan, Jet Velarmino expressed enthusiasm to visit the islands.

As each island town unveiled their tarpaulins on the sights of the islands, Velarmino was visibly awed by the beauty of the islands.

“I am a scuba diver, I can see from these pictures that you have potential diving sights which I plan to visit very soon, I just hope that your corals are still intact, ” said the general.

As for Almagro, like other island

towns Sto Nino and Tagapul-an, it boosts of fresh sea foods that can delight the most discriminating palate, says a local Almagrohanon.

As for its tourist potential, it has Kerikite Diving Resort where the fish, corals and other marine life have remained undisturbed.

Presently though, much is still to be done for tourists to come, but said challenge can easily be hurdled as peace is the beginning of it all. (NBQ/PIA 8-Samar)

EASTERN VISAYAS

Agas Agas--Agas Bridge in Southern Leyte

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Irish agri minister brings humanitarian aid to Olotan farmers By: AURORA J. CASIMPAN

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 21 (PIA) – The government of Ireland was one of several European countries which acted swiftly to help Yolanda stricken communities in Leyte. Ireland is thousands of miles from Brgy. Olotan, in Jaro town in Leyte, but the distance was not a deterrent in the country‟s effort to bring humanitarian aid meant as intervention for the hunger facing the farmers after Yolanda erased properties and livestock.

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istory would tell that Ireland‟s developed state was borne out of years of struggle, hence, the country‟s empathy with the plight of the Filipino farmers considered as the backbone of agricultural products sustainability.

In March 20, this year, an Irish delegation led by Honorable Joe Costello, Minister of State for Trade and Development, Fionnuella Callanan, Private Secretary to Minister of State, H.E. Joe Hayes, Ambassador, Singapore Embassy, Kevin Kelly, Director, Emergency and Recovery, Elizabeth McEneany, Singapore Embassy, Lisa Dougherty, Deputy Director, Emergency and Recovery, Michael Treacy, Irish Aid Press Officer and Paul O‟Flynn, RTE Video Journalist, were in Brgy. Olotan, Jaro, Leyte to oversee their country‟s development assistance and bring humanitarian aid to the farmers of the area.

The Honorable Joe Costello told the

gathered crowd of farmers that their humanitarian aid of 500 thousand Euro dollars were for seeds and farm tools for rice farmers of Brgy. Olotan. In addition, the aid would also be used the sustainability of planting crops feed families.

Meantime, coconut farmers were to receive seedlings but intercropping will be undertaken while farmers wait for the newly planted coconuts to bear fruits in 6 to 8 years.

It was learned that Ireland gave 4 million Euro dollars to the national government after Yolanda struck.

Honorable Costelo also said their government will be giving an additional amount of 3 million Euro dollars for the recovery and rehabilitation efforts of the government.

The humanitarian efforts of the Irish government is aimed to restore income generation of rice and coconut farmers and for

sustainable development of the agriculture sector in an area identified to receive aid.

European donor councils coursed their humanitarian aid through the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations which fills the gap in rice and seed requirement identified by the Department of Agriculture and other related agencies of the Philippines.

FAO has been closely supporting government-led efforts in the country‟s agriculture sustainability.

Aside from seed distribution, FAO is also providing farmers with tools and fertilizers and other vital agricultural equipment not only in region 8 but other regions which suffered the wrath of Yolanda.

The Honorable Costello ended his visit on a note that his country will be involved for another 2 to 3 years in the recovery and rehabilitation efforts of the Philippines. (PIA-8)

DSWD releases P73M for 2nd CFW in 9 EV LGUs By: Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 24 (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has released as of March 19 approximately P73.1 million to nine local government units (LGUs) in Eastern Visayas for the continuing implementation of the cash-for-work program (CFW) for Typhoon Yolanda survivors in the region.

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SWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman said that this fund release is meant for the second wave of Cash For Work in the region.

The first wave of CFW from November 9, 2013 to February 10 was availed of by some 16,234 individuals, Secretary Soliman said.

She said the beneficiaries worked mostly in the different relief hubs, seaports, and at the airport assisting in the hauling of goods.

The second wave of CFW which will begin this month of March will benefit more than 37,000 individuals from Barugo, Burauen, Dulag, San Isidro, Santa Fe, Tabontabon and Tanauan in the province of Leyte; Guiuan in Eastern Samar; and Basey and Hinabangan in Western Samar.

The LGUs will be responsible in identifying priority activities such as clearing and cleaning roads of debris, rehabilitation of

farm-to-market roads, cleaning of coastal areas, digging and dredging of canals, rehabilitation of basic agricultural infrastructure, and communal gardening.

The participants to the CFW will work for 15 days and will receive P260 per day.

It was learned that the DSWD is also currently processing the release of the remainder of the total CFW budget allocation.

(PIA 8)

Women’s best practices in Southern Leyte bared BY: REBECCA CADAVOS MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 26 (PIA) – Women‟s groups in the municipality of Tomas Oppus bared their best practices last year, Tomas Oppus Women‟s Federation President Felisa Esclamado disclosed in her opening message during the Women‟s Month Culmination activity in the province of Southern Leyte.

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he said that out of 29 active women‟s groups in the municipality, 15 of which are in backyard gardening, 3 are into pot holders making, some are into rice trading, while others are into manicure/pedicure business.

“These women are not depending from their husbands‟ income, we have our own income, though in a little way,” Esclamado revealed.

The women‟s month which carries this year‟s theme as , “Juana, ang Tatag Mo ay Tatag Natin sa Pagbangon at Pagsulong,” connotes women‟s journey towards disaster recovery, she noted.

Meanwhile, one of the speakers,

Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee Chair on Women Hon. Aileen Estrera, bared that women‟s values “remind us how amazing women are,” saying that a woman can do more than men, who brings joy and hope with compassion.

She even inspired all the “Juanas” present to do things such as to smile when you want to cry; laugh when your nervous; stand up for injustice; love unconditionally; do hugs and kisses to cure the heartbroken , among other traits of a woman that a man cannot.

The day activity initiated by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office through Provincial head Luzviminda Rosete was in close coordination with the DPWH-Southern Leyte

Engineering District.

It was held at the DPWH function Hall, Friday.

PSWDO Focal Person for women, Anita Gildo informed that there were two representatives from the women‟s group in each municipality who were invited to attend the celebration.

Among other speakers include SP Member Hon. Daisy Gamale and DPWH representative Engr. Leonides Olarte.

An election of Provincial Kalipon ng mga Liping Pilipina officers and Zumba exercises were among the activities conducted during the women‟s month culmination activity in the province. (rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)

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, Childrenâ€&#x;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