One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 4 Issue 36

Vol 4

Issue 36

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Department of Environment and Natural Resources 6 Regional Director Jim Sampulna is flanked by his Regional Technical Directors - Livino Duran and Alicia Lustica (2nd from left and right) and Negros Occidental Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Andres Untal (2nd from right) in explaining the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Advocacy Campaign of the department with the Philippine Information Agency during a press conference held at Nature’s Village Resort and Hotel in Talisay City, Negros Occidental.*(EAD-PIA6 photo)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

CENTRAL VISAYAS

September 8 - 14, 2014

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Preparations for APEC in Boracay up By: Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, Sept. 9 (PIA6) -- The province of Aklan is set to form an ad hoc committee in preparation for the conduct of the Asia Pacifice Economic Conference (APEC) in Boracay Island in May 2015.

This action was agreed upon during the meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) here recently at the Conference Room of the Provincial Guest House presided by Aklan Governor Florencio T. Miraflores as chairperson.

The forming of the ad hoc committee, with members coming from various national and provincial government agencies in the province is essential, according to Governor Miraflores, in order to make the APEC meeting attended by heads or representatives of various nations in the Asia Pacific pleasant and secure as much as possible.

Governor Miraflores said the membership of the adhoc committee will be formed through an executive order that will come from his office.

Among the agencies to be prime members of the ad hoc committee that the governor first named were the Department of Health (DOH), the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Army and the DILG. He also sought the help of other PPOC members to identify other agencies which could help a lot in the successful and safe conduct of the APEC Meeting in Boracay next year.

Per initial information, one of the APEC meetings which will be held in the island is that of the economic trade ministers.

The governor singled out the DOH as prime member of the ad hoc committee as health safety is essential not only for delegates of the APEC during the days they will be staying in Boracay Island, but for the families they will be bringing along, as well as the foreign and domestic tourists visiting the island during the period.

First phase in the construction of the Boracay hospital is being handled by the DOH which includes the emergency room and the out-patient department, according to Governor Miraflroes.

In the same manner, the safe and smooth operation of the CAAP during the period is also important because most of the delegates and their families will be arriving via the Kalibo International Airport (KIA).

“As the delegates and their families will be riding bigger planes, they will be landing at the Kalibo International Airport”, Miraflores told the PPOC members.

For her part, Cynthia Aspera, Airport Manager,CAAP, assured the governor that they at KIA are very vigilant and prepared at all times.

Aspera said the airport management had already cleared the arrival and parking area of transport vans, vendors and othe unsightly things.

She said the airport is operating 24/7 with the personnel in three shifts. She also told the group that the new terminal building is soon to be completed in time for the APEC summit.

With the bomb scare however that happened at NAIA recently, she requested the assistance of the provincial government for the acquisition of one K-9 to help them monitor and check baggages in the airport vicinity.

Presently, Aspera said international flights landing at KIA has an average of 6-12 a day bringing in 3,500 foreign tourists, and domestic flights of 12-16 a day bringing in 2,000 domestic/local passengers. (JCM/PIA6 Aklan)

Boracay Island. (DOT)

‗Lima Para sa Kalikasan‘ climate change advocacy for environment in Bohol

PIA Director General Jose Mari Oquiñena underscores the importance of teaching Filipino solidarity to youths during the Pintig Pinoy Lecture series for 200 DepEd elementary and high school teachers on Aug. 27 at Bethel Guest House, Dumaguete City.

The event was organized by DepEd-Division of Negros Oriental. (ral/PIA7-NegOr)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

EASTERN VISAYAS

By: Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA) – Three government agencies in collaboration with Boholano sectors successfully conducted its billed “Lima Para sa Kalikasan:” a recent five-activities -in-one-day for the environment in Ubay .

The Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Education (DepED) implemented 'Lima Para sa Kalikasan' to jumpstart the implementation of environmental projects that could insulate communities from the adverse effects of climate change.

The activities include Lakbay Kaalaman para sa Kalikasan: an environment themed guided tour across Bohol from Tagbilaran to Ubay joined by media partners: Bohol Tri-Media Association (BTMA) and the Association of United Development Information Officers in Bohol (AUDIO Bohol).

The PIA-Bohol handled the environment themed guided tour, which was sponsored by Congressman Rene Relampagos’ environment advocacy program.

In Ubay town, student writers from 19 schools of Bohol District 2 and 3 urged by the DepED gathered at the town gymnasium for the Likas Kakayahan, Arugaan Para sa Kalikasan: a student writers for the environment write-shop in feature writing, photojournalism and junior broadcasting.

The junior broadcasting writeshop was handled by Bohol media personality Ric Obedencio (Freeman) while Ferliza Contratista of PIA-Cebu Provincial Infocen and Rey Anthony Chiu,

manager, PIA-Bohol Provincial Infocen handled the feature writing and photo journalism workshops.

The whole day activity was emceed by Edward Guyano, Lady Charity of DyTR. And to fill the student writers with the necessary content for the writeshops, event organizers put in environment briefings delivered by passionate Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Elpidio Palaca that discussed the possible effects of Climate Change to Bohol.

In order to get the student writers into the rut of environmental advocacy, organizers brought the writeshop participants to the hills of Calanggaman, for planting 1000 trees in 30 minutes.

That day, about 180 student writers, teachers, foreign volunteers and local officials including the PIA and DENR succeeded in planting close to 2,000 trees in 30 minutes.

Also helping the tree planting project were Congressman Aristotle Aumentado, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines and the local government of Calanggaman and Ubay town.

As the tree-planting activity happened, members of the Ubay Central Elementary School urged the volunteers to do their share in insulating communities by ceasing to stop drum-beating, until the last seedling was planted.

Partners with the activity also include Congressman Arthur Yap, Provincial Government of Bohol, PIA-Cebu and Regional Office, BTMA and AUDIO Bohol. (mbcn/RAC/PIABohol)

CAAP assures continuous operation at Tacloban airport PAGASA Tacloban head Mario Peñaranda (right) briefs listeners of the “Nagbabag-o na An Panahon, Panahon na Para Magbag-o”, a radio program on climate change, regarding the role of their office. This program is aired live every Tuesday from 9:30 - 10:30 AM over DYVL Aksyon Radio. (Vino R. Cuayzon)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Also CLICK Here...

BY: CONSUELO B. ALARCON TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Sept. 8 (PIA) –The area manager of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) based in this city assured the public of the continuous operation at the Tacloban Daniel Z. Romualdez (DZR) airport despite the repair being undertaken of its runway.

CAAP area manager Efren Nagrama said, operations at the Tacloban airport remains normal even if there were cancelled flights or changes in flight schedules beginning on the first week of September until December 3 this year.

“For airport operations natin, normal naman ang landing at take off natin although limited sa turbo prop aircrafts lang muna,” Nagramo explained.

Earlier, CAAP announced that only small planes or turbo propeller aircrafts are allowed to land at the airport due to the

repair of the runway measured at 45 meters wide and 2, 140 meters long.

An initial fund amounting to P123 million was allocated for the repair of the runway.

With this development, Cebu Pacific has clarified that due to the runway limitations, flights of the Tiger Airways and Cebu Pacific plying Manila-Tacloban and vice versa is cancelled for the whole month of September.

Hence, passengers who have early bookings are being advised to reroute to Cebu for free or may ask for refund.

Also, PAL passengers are also advised to check with their schedules. With this situation, CAAP asked the public to bear with the inconvenience at the Tacloban DZR airport these days as they continue to implement the project for the safety of all commuters.

(PIA-8)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

DENR calls for protection of rainforest By: Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique, Sept. 8 (PIA6) - - Protection of Antique‘s rainforest is a must to maintain its biodiversity and the natural ecosystem of Panay Island.

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ntique’s forest, home to various plants and animals, has a total land area of 62,341.50 hectares. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources reported a total of 18,033.50 hectares of closed forest (rainforest) and 41,142 hectares of open forest.

Mirza Samillano, Chief Executive Assistant, DENR-Antique during the climate change advocacy campaign in Valderrama, Antique exhorted the Barangay Officials to be aggressive in the campaign on forest protection.

“We are lucky that Antique has been part of the longest rainforest in Panay which served as the backbone of the island.

Thus, it needs to be preserved and protected,” she said.

Species of trees such as Laua-an, Yakal, Bagtikan among others (common terms) are found in these areas. It also served as habitat for animals that are endemic only in these mountain ranges.

Samillano said, the barangay officials of Valderrama have all the reason to protect the rainforest because Baloy Mountain ranges are located in their town.

Aside from forest areas that are considered excellent in carbon sequestration, there is also the need to protect our mangrove areas and beach forest, said the source.

There is also the need to preserve

our marine ecosystem. Mangrove / beach forest purify sea water and serve as wind breaker during typhoons/strong winds.

Samillano said that everyone has to play their role in preserving our environment. Every living organisms even how small are essential part of our ecosystem so their habitat should be protected.

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Advocacy campaign with the Punong Barangays of Valderrama, Antique is a collective undertaking of the Municipality of Valderrama, Antique Association of Information Officers, PIA-Antique and DENR. (JCM/PSM/PIA6 Antique)

IMWG formed to handle DRRM database By: Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. ILOILO CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA6) – An Information Management Working Group was formed by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) to establish and maintain a database that can help facilitate and coordinate DRRM activities during disasters.

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he group, composed of representatives from the RDRRMC Preparedness Committee, has undergone a two-day training on information management in April and held a meeting, September 8 at the NEDA office to discuss and start work on the database containing indicators from member-agencies.

The indicators are data provided by the members and which are deemed useful in making decisions especially at the level of response.

These data include among others the areas covered by Region 6, population and its distribution and segregation, health,

social services and school facilities.

Office of Civil Defense’s Aleth Nogra said the creation of the IMWG was borne out of the lessons learned from typhoon “Yolanda” (international name Haiyan) that underscored the value of said data.

For its part, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA) said having the database will help facilitate quick and appropriate decisions especially on response.

Both OCD and UN-OCHA said that they have experienced difficulty in facilitating or coordinating response activities in their early stages for typhoon

Yolanda because the needed data were inadequate and came in varied formats and from scattered sources.

OCD Regional Director and RDRRMC chairperson Rosario Cabrera said that the creation of an information management system through the IMWG will address the gap which will ultimately help in achieving a stronger and resilient region. The IMWG of the RDRRMC of Western Visayas is the first of its kind to be organized in the country at the regional level, according to UN-OCHA. The activities of the IMWG are overseen by OCD with the support of UN-OCHA. (JCM/JSC-PIA6)

Search for best LGU climate change project on By: Lorenzo O. Lambatin Jr. NEGROS OCC., Sept. 8 (PIA6) — The Philippine Information Agency with the DENR have recently launched the search for the best LGU Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Project in Region 6.

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n Negros Occ. cities and towns have already been notified and invited to join the search, PIA6 Regional Director Lawyer Janet Mesa said.

Entries should be submitted to PIA Negros Occ. Information Center, Burgos-Gatuslao Sts., on or before October 10, she added.

Evaluators in each province will screen entries and come up with the best three LGUs that will vie for the region’s best MAP. First prize will receive P50,000

and a trophy, second P30,000 and a trophy and third prize P20,000 and a trophy.

LGUs can choose one project from the following areas as entry-recycling, greening and coastal or river clean up.

Criteria include relevance of the project to Climate Change MAP 25%, impact of the project to the community 25%, sustainability of project 20%, LGU resolutions/ ordinances in support of the project 15 % and budget 15%. Mesa said

the activity aims to recognize LGU’s efforts in Western Visayas in Climate Change MAP, to encourage LGUs to develop and implement Climate Change MAP and highlight the contributions of LGUs to the efforts of the national government towards making communities safer and more resilient against the effects of Climate Change. For inquiries interested parties may call PIA Negros Occ. at Tel. No. 4353933 and e-mail at piabacolod@yahoo.com (Lljr-PIA6)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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Capiz celebrates tourism week Sept. 15 – 21 By: Alex A. Lumaque ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Sept. 11 (PIA6) – The Department of Tourism (DOT) will feature the ―Visit the Philippines Year 2015 (VPY 2015)‖ during the opening of the 2nd Regional Tourism Expo on Sept. 19 here to drum up interest on the declaration

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PY 2015 will coincide with the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit in 2015 and a preparation for the country’s hosting of ASEAN Tourism Forum in 2016.

The DOT announcement will be matched up by presentations of tourism promotional videos of Malaysian and Indonesian embassies which are deemed highlights of the Provincial Tourism Week (PTW) celebration from Sept.

15 to 21.

Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Alphonsus Tesoro said that all the provinces in Western Visayas will put up destination booths at the Activity Center of Robinsons Place in Pueblo de Panay here for the tourism expo.

Aside from interactive exhibits and food as well as trade fair, display booths will be also established by the hotels and resorts at the venue.

Cultural performances of the provinces of

Capiz, Antique and Iloilo will be featured every afternoon of the three-day exposition.

PTW, which is a DOT and Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) grand winner (Pearl Award) for Best Tourism Week Celebration – provincial level in 2012, is an annual celebration highlighting the province’s tourism initiative through performances, eco-cultural tours and interactive exhibits.

Capiz Gov. Victor A. Tanco will open the celebration which will also include activities like swimming clinic, DOT Accreditation Caravan, Tourism and Cultural Awareness Forum, Cultural Tour for Special Program for the Arts of Capiz National High School, launching of Community – based Rural ourism Projects as well as Tourism Sites Assessment and ZumbaCercise (Wellness Program).

“The celebration emphasizes the relevance of tourism and its effects in community development. It generates income while at the same time promotes the community as a tourist destination,” Tesoro

noted.

The Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office thru the support of DOT will also conduct the 2nd National Convention of Tourism and Hospitality Management Educators and Students dubbed “Tagbuanay” on Sept. 18 and 19 at the Capiz Gym in the Villareal Stadium here that will be attended by more than 200 participants from various parts of the country.

The Roxas City government will also stage an evening food festival at the city plaza in time with the national convention and 1st Western Visayas Tourism Officers Assembly.

A two-day National Swimming Competition which is a selection for qualifiers to the International Swimming Competition in Bangkok, Thailand is included in the PTW activities.

The celebration with the theme “Tourism and Community Development” has also the support of all local government units, other concerned national government agencies and private institutions.(JCM/AAL/PIA6 Capiz)

MIA team to test refrigerants By: Lilibeth A. French ILOILO CITY, Sept. 10 (PIA6) -- The Metro Iloilo Airshed (MIA) in partnership with the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources 6 (DENR 6) will conduct a random vehicle roadside Mobile Air Conditioning (MAC) Testing as part of the efforts to monitor the use of and educate the public on environment friendly refrigerants.

ENR-EMB 6 Air and Water Clearance Department of Transportation and and Central Philippine University on and Permitting Division Chief Engr. Communications and DENR issued Joint September 24.

Ronald Limua said the refrigerant Administrative Order in 2007 to ban the "The Land Transportation Office, the testing is part of the activities for the National use of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in agency mandated to conduct the inspection Ozone Protection Month this September with the air conditioning systems of motor and a member-agency of the MIA will be the theme “Ozone Layer Protection: The vehicles. joining the MAC testing,” said Limua.

Mission Goes On”.

CFCs are organic compounds that are Aside from the MAC testing, there will Limua said the country is a signatory to considered ozone-depleting substances. also be IEC Exhibit on Ozone and Climate the Kyoto and Montreal Protocols, The MAC testing will be conducted after Change and film showing to be undertaken international treaties which aim to protect the the Ozone Depletion Forum in the University during the forum to be participated in by ozone layer and to reduce global warming. As of San Agustin on September 19, Iloilo Science students, mostly engineering students, of the a signatory, the government through the and Technology University on September 23 said schools. (JCM/LAF/PIA-Iloilo)

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DOH6 targets 95% immunization rate By: Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA6) --- The Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas is optimistic that it can achieve the 95 percent vaccination target for its month-long massive immunization campaign which kicked off Sept. 1.

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his despite the health department missing its target of 30 percent for the first five days of the conduct of measles rubella oral polio vaccine (MR-OPV) mass immunization in the region.

Dr. Marlyn Convocar, DOH-6 Regional Director, said that local government units have been formulating strategies to accomplish the daily vaccination target by focusing on remote areas first and reaching out to children under five years old.

As per DOH-6 record, some 190,077 children or 22 percent of the target have been vaccinated against measles/rubella (MR) and 212,018 children or 21 percent have been immunized against polio, as of September 8, 2014.

Iloilo City is the only highly urbanized city/province in Western Visayas which has achieved the 30 percent target for the mass immunization campaign.

As of September 8, a total of 16,405 children or 32 percent of the total target in Iloilo City have been vaccinated

against MR while 18,390 children or 30 percent have been immunized against polio.

The DOH official said that unfavorable weather conditions and difficulty reaching far-flung areas are some of the constraints in the conduct of the immunization program.

DOH targets to vaccinate 11 million children nationwide against MR while 13 million children will be given oral drops against polio for the whole month of September. (JCM/LTP/PIA -Iloilo)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

PPOC commends cops in anti-narc ops BY: REY ANTHONY H. CHIU TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Sept. 8 (PIA) –The Provincial Peace and Order Council in Bohol handed in cash incentives and awards of commendations to 13 cop stations and units for what it saw was a sterling performance in the fight against drugs and criminality in the last few months in Bohol.

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uring its most recent out-of-town meeting at the Chocolate Hills in Carmen Bohol, the PPOC through chairman Governor Edgar Chatto, Interior and local government provincial director Loisella Lucino, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Peace and Order Committee Chairman Dr. Cesar Tomas Lopez, Balilihan Vice Mayor Pureza Chatto and Prosecutor Macario Delusa handed in the plaques and cash incentives to chiefs of police stations as well as designated representatives.

Bohol provincial administrator Alfonso Damalerio read the commendation as a grateful recognition of the outstanding achievement and profound acknowledgement of the police station’s contribution to the peace and order initiatives of the PPOC especially in the implementation of the Anti-Drug Abuse program.

Conferred the awards of commendation were a team for Bien Unido Police Station (PS) through of Police Senior Inspector Judel Torregosa, and Bohol Police Intelligence and Investigations Bureau (PIIB) under PInspector Jojit Mananquil and PCIspector Alvin Futalan, and the Special Weapons and Tactics Team.

They were instrumental in the neutralization of drug lord and former police officer Owen Rosales and his band of armed men, who were tagged in the ambush-slay of Ubay Police Chief, PCInspector George Cana.

Also conferred were San Miguel PS through PSInsp Rey Romaguera, who intercepted a reinforcement team in his town, the team was allegedly off to help the embattled Rosales group who was besieged in a resort in Bien Unido that time.

Almost that same time, a team from the Police Highway Patrol Group intercepted a band of armed men who were flagged in a routine checkpoint. Drugs and assorted fire-arms were recovered and, PSInsp Gregorio Sanchez and the HPG group deserved the award. Other awardees include Carmen PNP PS who had SPO4 Felix Avergonzado receiving the awards. The PS was credited for the disbandment of Arnel Macabudbod - Vano criminal gang and illegal drugs trade in town.

Dauis PS through PSInspector Cesar Acompanado for the arrest and relentless pursuit of drug

personalities in Dauis and Jagna PS through PSINsp Aldrin VillaCamba for similar successes. A few weeks back, Ubay Police crippled local drugs trade with the neutralization of drug personality Romulo Cano also called Inday Bono and his trusted aide Primo Cabanero.

For this, the local station earned the award and PSInspector Petronilo Garcia claimed for it.

Guindulman PS also received the same commendation via the leadership of PSInspector Jomar Pumarejos for the neutralization of drug personality and police murderer Artemio Tare Jr., who was on his way to flee from a police dragnet. Clarin PS through PSInp Jess Daplin and City PNP through PSInspector George Vale also reaped credits for their campaigns against drugs and criminalities.

Also awarded were Camp Dagohoy Chief of Operations PSupt Lorenzo Batuan, and Provincial Director PSSUpt Dennis Agustin for leading their men in the ridding some dangerous drugs with a street value amounting to almost a hundred million pesos from August last year to date. (mbcn/rac/PIA7-Bohol)

Dumaguete City one of world‘s top retirement place BY: JENNIFER C. TILOS DUMAGUETE CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) -- Dumaguete City has been recognized as one of the best places to retire across the globe according to the 2014 Retire Overseas Index released by the Overseas Retirement Letter.

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he report stated that this ranking was brought about by the affordable cost of living in the city, tropical climate, warm English-speaking community and beautiful beachfront scenery.

The scoring used for this ranking was based on criteria that are crucial to retirees such as climate.

The local tourism office has recorded a 83.9% growth with 393,718 foreign and local tourists in 2013, compared to the 214,052 recorded in 2012.

According to city tourism officer Woodrow Maquiling Jr the overall number of foreign citizens who visited Dumaguete has also grown, with 80.8% with 47,919 guests compared to last year’s 26,504.

As monthly foreign arrival levels have been growing compared to the comparative months of 2012, Maquiling said he is highly optimistic this trend would be sustained in the coming years.

The Overseas Retirement Letter reflected Dumaguete City as the second most affordable place to retire with a

monthly budget of US$910 next to Nha Trang, Vietnam with a monthly budget of US$680.

The budget were created based on expenses of house rentals, groceries basic utilities such as electricity, phone, water, internet, gas and cable and entertainment expenses.

This has not been the first citation received by the City considered as one of the world’s best places to retire.

Maquiling Jr. stated, “This is a testament that indeed Dumaguete City under the leadership of Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria with its world-class ambiance continues to live by the legend of its name, “Dumaguet” meaning “to swoop” or its power to attract and keep visitors.

The City has indeed progressed not merely to attract visitors but also lure its visitors with its charm and splendor to stay, Maquiling added.

Yahoo Finance and US News Money early this year also identified Dumaguete as one of the nine Most Affordable Places to Retire with a monthly budget of $1000.00 obtaining the 4th rank of the list, Maquiling

shared.

Their report described the city as, “In addition to its welcoming, friendly, English-speaking people, Dumaguete boasts a warm, tropical climate and lots of opportunity for outdoor activities. It sits right along the ocean, with attractive beaches to the north and south of town.

Being known as the University town, foreigners have the opportunity to make friends with educated professors and aspiring students, take classes and enjoy cultural opportunities not typically found elsewhere in the Philippines, including theater, ballet, art shows and libraries.”, the report added.

Forbes.com also featured Dumaguete City as the 5th among the 7 Best Places to Retire around the world.

In its report it defined Dumaguete as a city where one will find “one of the best places for beachfront living on a budget.” It also pronounced Dumaguete as inexpensive with great beaches, expats, balmy climate and good health care.” (mbcn/JCT/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

CSC-7 cites CV reps to nat'l awards BY: FERLIZA CALIZAR-CONTRATISTA CEBU CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) --- Civil Service Commission (CSC-7) here highlights outstanding civil servants and partners in Central Visayas.

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n a colorful event recently, CSC-7 gave out plaques and cash incentives to the six government employees who will represent the region in the national awards in three categories--Outstanding Public Officials and Employees or the Dangal ng Bayan, CSC Pagasa Award and the Lingkod Bayan.

The Dangal ng Bayan awardees and finalists to the national competition are Commission on Audit auditor IV Barbara Ana Aloba and Euthemia Plariza, a midwife from the Municipality of Dalaguete, Cebu.

Aloba accordingly displayed exemplary skills and judgement in the conduct of her role as State Auditor. She also stood her ground when she encountered a difficult situation with an influential provincial official who lambasted her with insults when she was just performing her duties.

On the other hand, Plariza stood out as a midwife in Dalaguete town as she effectively provides health care and resulted to more people going to health centers.

She also conducted trainings and seminars in creating awareness on proper care, prevention and cure of health related issues and ailments. She lobbied at the Municipal Council for more support to the barangay health center and attained the required 100 percent facility-based deliveries.

The Pag-asa Awardees were both from the

province of Negros Oriental; Allan Faburada, an assistant professor of Negros Oriental State University and Jonalyn Ojastro a casual employee of the local government unit of Bayawan City.

Ojastro initiated seed production project for farmers in the area to address delayed supply of seeds from the local agricultural office.

She also convinced 84 farmers to plant rubber trees as permanent crop despite the city being used to planting sugarcane and rice.

The new trend increased not just the income but the number of farmers as well. His work station was tagged as the Model Barangay Agricultural Development Center in the city.

Faburada’s contribution is also in the side of agriculture. He initiated the conduct of the Annual Farmers Day, Harvest Festival and Technology Forum with the farmers to showcase technology generated in all NORSU campuses.

He operates demo farms for farmers, community extension workers, agri students and local residents all over Negros to avail of techno transfer activities.

The Presidential or Lingod Bayan awardees were from the Philippine Air Force; Wing Commander Rolando Aquino of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing and Aircraft Mechanic Elton Monet Morelos also of the same

unit.

Aquino undertook the recovery of a C-130, restored and commissioned it into a flying machine after being grounded for six years. It is the highest level of maintenance and a breakthrough and pioneering project of the PAF. The said plane was fixed in time for the transport of goods to North Eastern Mindanao due to typhoon Pablo. It was also very useful during other calamities like Zamboanga siege, Bohol earthquake and typhoon Yolanda.

Aircraft Mechanic Merelos is very reliable in his job. His skills earned the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing and the whole PAF savings due to his in house repairs.

The turnaround time to declare an aricarft in full mission status after a discrepancy in the landing gear cap assemply has been decreased. Replacement and recovery are done at a short time.

The merit and award system is aimed at inspiring civil servants and other workers in the government to be competent and sincere in bringing service to the constituents, according to CSC7 Regional Director Karen Litz Serna.

The regional awards is one of the highlights of the month long Civil Service Month celebration. (mbcn/FCC/ PIA7-Cebu)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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Dumaguete, NegOr booth shines at 25th PHL Travel Mart BY: JENNIFER C. TILOS DUMAGUETE CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) -- Dumaguete City and Negros Oriental booth emerged as some of the most favored booths visited during the 25th Philippine Travel Mart at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Mall of Asia Compound on September 5-7.

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umaguete City tourism operations assistant Katherine Therese Aguilar said both Dumaguete and Negros Oriental booth was most frequented by viewers and potential tourists because it presented the charms and magic of blue waters through its beach resorts and beautiful coral reefs and the best dive sites in Negros Oriental.

According to Aguilar Dumaguete and Negros Oriental booth has become popular during the Travel Mart where top officials of the Department of Tourism (DOT), Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) and several prominent individuals such as the Former First Lady Imelda Marcos and grandson Borgy Manotoc visited the booth and tasted the exquisite wonders and combined attractions of Dumaguete and the entire province have to offer with a free taste of the famous Sans Rival Sylvanas.

DOT Secretary Ramon Jimenez led the ribbon cutting of the booth with DOT Region 7 regional

director Rowena Lu Montecillo.

Thousands of local and foreign tourists visited the travel show to have a glimpse of various destinations in the country through booth exhibits.

The travel show is the biggest travel trade exhibition in the promotion and marketing of domestic and inbound tourism has been established by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA).

Aside from the local government units (LGU’s), the Travel Mart also features booths from various travel agencies and airlines that offer best saving-rates for the services they offer.

City Tourism Officer and SINATO President Woodrow Maquiling Jr reiterated that this endeavor was a collaboration among most tourism stakeholders in the city and province, namely, the Sidlakang Negros Association of Tourism Officers (SINATO), the Negros Oriental Hotels, Resorts, & Restaurants Association (NOHRRA), Orientwind

Travel & Tour of NOATA, Maganda Travel of ATTIN and the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NOCCI).

“Truly, we have marked our presence in the silver anniversary of the Philippine Travel Mart,” Maquiling added.

Dumaguete and Negros Oriental booth was manned by Maritoni Mascardo of the Provincial Tourism Office and Shiela Alejado and Antonette Zerna of the City Tourism Office under the auspices of Provincial Tourism Officer, Myla Mae Abellana and City Tourism Officer, Woodrow Maquiling Jr. They were joined by Miss Dumaguete 2013, Ms. Lorraine Kendrickson who was in Manila for the Miss World Philippines competition.

Dumaguete City Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria and his First Lady Ma Isabel graced the occasion in support of the city’s tourism initiatives. (mbcn/JCT/ PIA7-Negros Oriental)

DOH implements polio, measles shots this Sept.

BY: REY ANTHONY H. CHIU TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Sept. 8 (PIA) – Banking on its highly successful anti-measles campaign in 2011, the Department of Health (DOH) is again putting its resources on a supplementary measles and rubella mass immunization, to arrest the feared re-circulation of measles virus in some areas of the country.

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his as DOH noticed significant outbreaks of measles and rubella last year, according to Dr. Greg Julius Sodusta, Bohol assistant provincial health officer.

Measles is not among the country’s deadliest diseases, but the complications it can bring might trigger the alarm, explained Dr. Nelson Elle, Maternal and Child Health Care director for region 7.

Speaking at the Kapihan sa PIA with maternal and child health care coordinator Machiavelia Caliao, Dr. Elle pointed out that pneumonia and pulmonary complications rank among the country’s top killing diseases, many of them caused by measles.

Measles is a very contagious infection that causes a rash all over the body. It is also called rubeola or red measles, and is caused by an airborne virus, which can be spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes, shares food or drinks or when one gets near an infected person, medical authorities claimed.

Due to the threat, the Philippines conducted a massive immunization in 2001, Dr. Sodusta shared.

But with the recurring threat, the DOH conducts this September 2014, an nationwide measles and rubella mass immunization billed as “Ligtas Tigdas, Magkaisa, Magpabakuna,” Dr. Elle revealed at

the

weekly radio forum.

Target for the measles and rubella immunization are kids 5 months to 59 months old, authorities noting that most of those who were infected were within these age brackets, the regional coordinator said.

In September this year, municipal health teams led by rural health doctors and nurses, along with Barangay Health Workers would be moving around town to administer the free mass immunizations, Dr. Elle said.

This time, an immunized child would be given a finger mark: indelible ink on the finger, as a sign that he has completed the mass immunization, authorities said.

On the other hand, despite the fact that the Philippines has enjoyed a polio-free status since 2000 when the Western pacific Region was certified polio-free, the ever increasing porous international boundaries has re-opened the country to the probability of an imported wild polio-virus from other regions entering and starting a new trend of infections.

For this, the DOH is also putting up Oral Polio Vaccine Mass Immunization, to provide a second

opportunity to catch missed children and protect the country from a potential poliovirus importation.

Meanwhile, in Siquijor, the Philippine National Police (PNP) here reported the rising incidence of vehicular accidents and road mishaps in the province.

Almost 70 percent of the recorded physical injuries in Siquijor are caused by traffic accidents, says Provincial Director Primitivo Tabujara during the Provincial Advisory Council (PAC) and Provincial Police Strategy Management Unit (PPSMU) meeting recently at the Siquijor Provincial Police Office (SPPO) in Caipilan, Siquijor.

The local office of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the PNP-Siquijor Provincial Police Office (SPPO) also knock on the local Land Transportation Office (LTO) to seriously look into the problem and to coordinate with their offices to avoid more accidents to happen in the future.

DILG-Siquijor said, there is a need to pass a Sanggunian Resolution on the issuance of citation tickets to drivers, traffic and/or road violations at the local level. (mbcn/RAC/PIA7-Bohol with R. A. Calibo-Siquijor report)

PCIC-7 implements free insurance, productivity interventions for fisherfolk, farmers Central Visayas (PIA) --- The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC-7) is now implementing the ―Free Crop Insurance Schemes‖ or the productivity enhancing interventions for farmers, fisherfolks, and other agricultural stakeholders.

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his is apart from the Integrated Farming Systems Development Program in which the Cebu Provincial Government commits to shoulder 100% of the farmers’ premium share.

In a press release to PIA, PCIC-7 also clarified that Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) who obtained loans from Land Bank of the Philippines are also entitled to avail free insurance coverage of their agri-projects including Loan Repayment Protection Plan or loan under the Agrarian Productivity Credit Program (APCP).

PCIC-7 said that farmers and fisherfolks in Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) identified 16 Yolanda-hit LGUs of northern Cebu can also avail of free agricultural insurance for their rice, corn, high value crops, livestock, agri-asset and fishery projects including accient insurance for the

life and limbs of the assured farmers or fisherfolks.

Marginal farmers and fisherfolks not residing in Northern Cebu can also enroll of free agri-fishery insurance program provided that they are included in the list of Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA).

In the cities and municipalities of Cebu there are 171, 181 beneficiaries listed under RSBA this include: Alcantara (3, 797), Alcoy (3, 422), Alegria (4, 241), Aloguinsan (6,674), Argao (12,444), Asturias (7, 987), Badian (10, 873), Balamban (10, 275), Barili (13, 115), Boljoon (3,312), Carcar City (14, 436), Carmen (3,401), Catmon (7, 384), Cebu City (18, 015), Compostela (4, 452), Consolacion (7, 632), Cordova (5, 697), Dalaguete (11, 910), Danao City (6, 500), Dumanjug (14, 165) and Ginatilan (4, 349).

The province of Bohol also has 251, 839 while

Siquijor province has 20, 106 farmer and fisherfolk beneficiaries to avail of free insurance schemes under RSBSA. PCIC-7 said the objective of the program is to provide protection to the agricultural stakeholders and their farm investments in case of crop losses and in to ensure inclusive growth.

PCIC-7 added that the program also intends to cushion the impact of climate change as agri-business is always considered as a risky venture because of its large dependency on nature.

To avail of the programs, farmers and fisherfolks are encouraged to visit their Municipal/City Agriculturist, Agricultural Technologist, Barangay Council or Farmers’ Organizations in their respective areas. (mbcn/ays/PIA7/with reports from DA-PCIC 7)

EASTERN VISAYAS

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OPARR‘s ‗eMPATHY‘ targets to be online by mid-October BY: LEONILO D. LOPIDO TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Sept. 10 (PIA) – A website with a map-based database of information being developed by the government through the Office of the Presidential Assistance for Rehabilitation and Recovery (OPARR) is expected to be accessed online by the public by mid-October, an official said Friday.

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PARR Assistant Secretary Victor Batac said that the database dubbed as “eMPATHY” or e-Management Platform: Accountability and Transparency Hub for Yolanda will be the central repository of information on all projects undertaken along the Yolanda corridor.

With United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) assistance, OPARR has tapped the services of Synergy International Systems, a leading company in providing customizable, off-the-shelf application for development assistance tracking, the same technology used by several other countries for their recovery efforts.

The eMPATHY is now in the initial stage of roll-out which requires orienting all development partners including the regional offices of national line agencies, local

government units, local and international organizations, private organizations, f oun d at ions an d in ter na t ion a l a id organizations.

Government agencies implementers are thus required to submit and update reports using the system, however, non-government organizations and civil society organizations are not obliged but are encouraged to report/ update the government and the public of their projects to avoid duplication and address gaps, he said.

The system allows project implementers for data entry, project verification and submission, implementation of project updates, implementation of project approval/ commenting, managing key performance indicators, managing organization profiles, cluster profiles, reporting and analysis.

Among the benefits of the information management system to users include full access to information, real time progress reporting, easy identification of gaps and easy coordination with various implementers.

Meanwhile, OPARR will be installing mobile 4G LTE antenna for internet access in Leyte and Samar with a 30-kilometer radius reach. As a mobile internet, this gadget will be useful also especially during disasters.

In conclusion, Batac calls on the public participation and vigilance in monitoring of these projects from the P170 billion rehabilitation and recovery funding of the government from proposal submission, approval and implementation.

(PIA-8)

Hundreds of jobseekers flock DOLE-8 jobs fair BY: CONSUELO B. ALARCON TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Sept. 8 (PIA) – Hundreds of jobseekers flocked the Eastern Visayas State University this city to avail the jobs fair by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Region 8.

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OLE-8 new Regional Director Elias A. Cayanong said, the agency is committed in facilitating employment in the region where most areas were devastated by typhoon Yolanda resulting to displacement of many workers.

Twenty four (24) private companies from Regions 7 and 8, including a non-government organization (NGO) and three oversees recruitment agencies participated in the hiring of new workers.

Some 2,064 local and 1,298 overseas job vacancies were available to the

applicants.

The fair targets 15% of those who applied be hired on the spot.

In similar occasion, the DOLE regional office released checks amounting to P9,637,126.00 as livelihood assistance to 1, 229 beneficiaries and survivors of typhoon Yolanda from the municipalities of Southern Leyte, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar.

Some of the projects that will be funded are Pineapple Queen Production, Enhancement of Small fishing through provision of fishing paraphernalias, artificial shallow water fish shelter, garments

production, pie making, farm merchandise project, dried fish production through mechanical dryer, scrap buying and recycling of LGBT’s of Oras E. Samar, provision of materials/paraphernalia for livelihood assistance to manicurists and haircutters and procurement of farm implements for the enhancement of rice and vegetable production.

Said funds will be taken from Yolanda Rehabilitation and Recovery Program (YRRP), DOLE Integrated Livelihood Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP) and Bottoms-up budgeting (BUB). (PIA-8)

CG head issues reminders to fisherfolk relative to climate change BY: NINFA ILUMINDA B. QUIRANTE CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Sept. 8 (PIA) - The Commander of the Philippine Coast Guard in Samar issued safety reminders to fisherfolk in the province.

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uring PIA’s Huruhimangraw/ Nagbabago ang Panahon, Panahon na Para Magbago on Thursday aired at DYMS Aksyon Radyo and telecast at Channel 4 over Leopards CATV, Fr Lowie Palines aired 12 reminders to fisherfolks that abound in the Samar Sea. Of the 12 reminders in Filipino, Palines warned the fisherfolks that indeed climate has changed, that they should heed the weather announcements every time they venture out to sea.

“Please do not risk your life just for some fish, if the sea is rough and announcement of inclement weather has

been aired,” said Palines.

The Coast Guard Chaplain turned Coast Guard Commander also reminded the fisherfolks to bring transistor radio, life jackets, whistle and gadgets like cellphone, fully charged extra battery, contact numbers of people in case of emergency.

“Let us take advantage of the modern gadgets to stay in contact while we are at sea,” Palines informed.

Other reminders include informing others about the prevailing weather conditions, informing relatives barangay officials when going out to the sea, staying in group and not wandering far where there

is no signal.

As many commercial boats ferry passengers to different islands in Samar, the Coast Guard official also reminded commercial boat operators to equip the boat with enough life jackets including those for the crew’s use.

“Climate has changed and we should not risk any life as we go on with our livelihood.” He said.

As a summary, Palines said, “Laging isaisip ang sariling kaligtasan, huwag ipagsapalaran ang buhay!” (Always bear in mind your safety, do not risk losing your life!). (vrc/nbq/PIA 8-Samar)

EASTERN VISAYAS

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DENR-Biliran top official shares ways to mitigate climate change BY: RODRIGO S. VICTORIA NAVAL, Biliran, Sept. 12 (PIA) – A top official of the provincial environment department in the province shared several ways on how to mitigate the effects of climate change in a students‘ forum held in a private school, this town on Tuesday, September 9.

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r. Mario L. Tubania, provincial environment and natural resources officer (PENRO) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Biliran province told students of the Cathedral School of La Naval to start within themselves ways to help mitigate the effects of climate change.

He said practicing the 3Rs which stands for reduce, reuse, recycle as the appropriate ways in solid waste management in school

and in the home is already a big help to cushion the impact of garbage to climate change.

“You cannot just burn your garbage that easy” Tubania said explaining further that burning garbage helps destroy the ozone layer that protects the planet from extreme heat.

The DENR provincial chief also encouraged them to start planting tree since trees help absorb carbon dioxide emitted from factories and vehicles.

He revealed that DENR-Biliran implemented the planting of trees under the National Greening Program (NGP) of the Aquino administration where his office targeted some 400 hectares of land planted to trees in Biliran province this year.

He also challenged the CSN students who attended the students’ forum on climate change to come up with a project in school aimed at helping mitigate the effects of climate change. (PIA 8 Biliran)

Ligtas-Tigdas in So. Leyte targets over 40,000 pre-school kids MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 11 (PIA) -- No stones left unturned, all bases covered.

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his, in a nutshell, was the overriding goal as health authorities in this province embark on a month-long immunization campaign to protect children five years old and below of preventable measles and polio diseases.

In real terms, this involved reaching out to 44,870 pre-school boys and girls, with a rapid coverage assessment (RCA) for 72 areas all over the province considered high-risk of contaminating the disease, said Noel Lumen, Provincial Health Officer.

The stated figures, however, did not include those coming from this city, Lumen said during the Action Center Kapihan sa PIA Cable TV program Wednesday.

The Department of Health (DOH) has marked the entire month of September for

the measles and polio immunization of children below five years old nationwide, beginning September 1, where President Benigno S. Aquino III led the launching ceremony.

The President had called on local government units (LGUs) to help make sure the health program can reach their intended targets, even persuading parents to cooperate and bring their concerned children to vaccination posts in the Rural Health Units.

Lumen echoed a similar message, saying that aside from health units in the field, a particular vaccination post will also be established in the sitios and puroks to cater to remote areas where neighborhood dwellings are sparse and far between.

Health personnel going to the field were also advised to coordinate first with the Mayor as a courtesy call and with the Punong Barangays so someone can accompany their rounds, particularly in areas marked for fast assessment, Lumen said.

These included resettlement sites, crowded places in urban centers, and those ranked as prone to natural disasters.

Measles often manifest as fever when its virus, spread through the air, can enter a weak or poorly immunized body, resulting in complications like pneumonia, blindness, and even death. Lumen also advised parents whose kids had completed the vaccination requirements to still bring such kids for this round, saying there is no overdose for immunization. (PIA8-Southern Leyte)

DOST SoLeyte releases P1.5-M financial aid to acquire equipment for local entreps BY: ERNA S. GORNE MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 7 (PIA) - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Southern Leyte Provincial Office released substantial amount to assist local entrepreneurs improve trades with the acquisition of more equipment.

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total of P1.530,620.00 checks was distributed by Provincial Science and Technology Officer Dr. Dominador Clavejo to six local entrepreneurs under the Grants In Aid (GIA) and Small Enterprises Technology-Upgrading Program (SET-UP) programs of DOST. Including in the SET-up releases from DOST this year are those who received the assistance from DOST this year SJR Auto Repair and Welding Shop with the amount of P416,120.00 to upgrade the production facilities for the welding metal fabrication to Roberto Borces sa Brgy. Cantutang, Padre Burgos; Maisam Glass Aluminum and Metal Works amounting P 186,000.00 for the procurement of aluminum cutter, welding machine, miter saw, speed cutter and cutting outfit of Emily Cadayona in Lilo-an.

Also to procure additional equipment like big working tables, weighing scales, digital scales and sealers to Janmer's Banana Chips in the amount of P138,000.00 and the LRG Farms in the amount of P295,000.00 for the acquisition of drip irrigation system and organic farming technology in Sogod to produce more income.

The financial assistance under the SET-UP program has to return the amount received in the span of three years and without any interest while under the Grants in Aid (GIA) program, this is freely given to the propenents of the projects that were considered among the priority thrusts of DOST, according to Clavejo.

These also includes the GIA assistance to the municipality of San Francisco for the Manlico Upland Farmer's Association in the

amount of P390,000.00 for the establishment of Organic Feeds Facilities to supply inland fish growers, particularly tilapia and prawn, according to Marayag Punong Barangay Jesus Gamutan, who is also the ABC president.

And to upgrade the facilities for the production of FNRI Rice Mongo, Sesame is blended as baby foods initiated by Sta. Cruz Nutripak Producers Association (SACNUPA), a group of women in Sta Cruz, Macrohon, according to Punong Barangay Allan Vicente Mantilla, who also received the check.

According to Dr Clavejo, those funds covers the total financial assistance appropriated for the province of Southern Leyte within this year and are now also accepting proposals for next year. (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.

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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. Baùares 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