One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 4 Issue 15

Vol 4

Issue 15

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Gawad Kalinga Executive Director Jose Luis Oquiñena talks about volunteerism and nation-building during the closing ceremonies of the Bayani Challenge 2014 Iloilo City held Tuesday at Jaro Gymnasium here. (LTP/PIA6)

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

April 14 - 20, 2014

DILG-7 to release P82M to 13 Yolanda-hit areas in Cebu BY: FAYETTE C. RIÑEN CEBU CITY, April 12 (PIA) – Regional Director Ananias Villacorta of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG-7) announced the release of P82.28 million to fund the repairs of damaged public infrastructures in 13 Yolanda-hit localities in north Cebu.

“The checks are ready for distribution to the 12 municipalities and one city in north Cebu that reported damages to public infrastructures,” said Villacorta during the post-Yolanda Press Briefing: Rehabilitation Phase yesterday at the Armed Forces of the Philippines - Central Command.

Bantayan town in Bantayan Island got the biggest share of the repair funding of the 13 localities with P26.82 million.

Sta. Fe, another municipality in Bantayan Island came in second with P12.02 million recovery assistance funding.

The amount will cover for the repairs of its municipal hall at P5 million and its public market with damage at P7.02 million, said Villacorta.

Daan Bantayan on the other hand, registered the third highest damage at P9.75 million. Repairs of its public market

would amount to P3.95 million, its civic center at P3.5 million and its municipal hall at P2.3 million.

Others in the list as recipients were the towns of Borbon, Madridejos, Medellin, Pilar, San Remigio, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan and Tuburan and the City of Bogo.

Villacorta said at the press briefing initiated by the Philippine Information Agency -7 in partnership with the AFP-CentCom that 16 localities in north Cebu were ravaged by super typhoon Yolanda but only 13 localities were beneficiaries of the DILG‟s recovery assistance funding.

“The three other LGUs either reported no significant damage or reported total damage to its public infrastructures.

For total or complete damage, these public infrastructures will be referred to the Department of Public Works and Highways,” bared Villacorta.

According to Villacorta, the amount of P46 million will be turned over to the DPWH-7 for the total reconstruction of the civic centers of the towns of Tudela and Madridejos.

Villacorta said the second batch of recovery assistance funding this year will be down to the barangay level to repair any partial damages to its public infrastructures. (PIA-7)

P1.79-B available for Yolanda rehabilitation of public buildings More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

CENTRAL VISAYAS

PCOO Sec. Sonny Coloma Jr. doing the ceremonial commitment to Bohol Bayani Challenge 2014. Coloma defined what it means to be a hero, which is to be courageous and having the heart as he keynoted the launch of Bohol Bayani Challenge 2014 on April 9, 2014 at Bohol Island State University Gymnasium. (ECB/PIA-Bohol)

BY: ERLINDA OLIVIA P. TIU PALO, Leyte, April 15 – The National Government has made available almost 1.8 billion for the rehabilitation of vital public buildings owned and operated by local government units in Yolanda-affected areas.

This was disclosed by Secretary of Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas who recently toured the Yolanda affected areas in Leyte to personally distribute the check for the rehabilitation fund to mayors of municipalities who have submitted all the needed documents.

Secretary Roxas noted that the P1.79-billion fund comprises only the first batch of rehabilitation fund for LGU-owned buildings.

The second batch, amounting to P358,348,047.54, is still being processed by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), he said.

The DILG Secretary explained that the special funding was made possible through the Reconstruction Assistance on Yolanda (RAY), the national government‟s strategic plan to guide the recovery and reconstruction of the economy, lives, and livelihoods in areas devastated by the Super Typhoon.

The objective of the plan is to restore the economic and social conditions of Yolanda-affected areas to their

pre-typhoon levels, while also establishing a higher level of disaster resilience.

To recall, the DILG has instructed all LGUs affected by Yolanda to submit their Program of Works (POW) for the rehabilitation of damaged public buildings in their respective areas, particularly the provincial, city, and municipal halls, public markets and civic centers.

The biggest chunk of the rehabilitation fund for cities and municipalities will go to Tacloban City, which was allocated P230,687,979.22 for the repair of the city hall, public market, and civic center.

For the provinces, Leyte received the biggest funding with allocation amounting to P801,804,911.17, or about 45 percent of the total rehabilitation fund.

Allocation for the other provinces in Region 8 include P19,917,634.41 for Biliran; P100,219,564.57 for Eastern Samar; and P16,528,192.25 for Western Samar.

Initial documents required include a Certificate from a Government Depository Bank on the LGU Trust Account where Funds will be dep osited, an d SP/SB Resolu tion au th orizing the Local Chief Executive to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the DILG Regional Office. (PIA 8)

Light of Peace makes Guinness record, promotes world peace BY: JAIME S. CABAG, JR. OTON, Iloilo, April 15 (PIA6) – For a moment, 5 seconds at the least, the Guinness world record for the largest More on Region 7, pages 4-5. flaming image using candles was put up during the Light of Peace event organized by the Middle Way Meditation Institute at Savannah City here April 14.

The record-breaking image was formed courtesy of thousands of volunteers from Iloilo, some nearby areas and EASTERN VISAYAS other countries, who lighted the candles at the cue of a series of countdowns on a 20-hectare open lot inside the premier subdivision project under a full moon which was partly veiled by evening clouds swept over the site by a low pressure area.

The image was that of the Philippine archipelago with the inscriptions, The Philippines 2014 and the theme of the event “World Peace Through Inner Peace”.

Organizers of the event, guests and participants broke into loud cheers when Guinness World Record representative Seyda Subasi Gemici announced that Middle Way Meditation PNP Catablogan also puts up their Summer Institute Iloilo has broken the existing world record of 35,478 Vacation assistance desk for motorists this lighted candles for an image held by Pakistan.

“In order to qualify for this record all candles summer season. transforming the image got to be aflame for at least 5 seconds,” explained Gemici before announcing the result from the huge event stage where guests and officials of Middle Way stayed for the program.

The event was graced by Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, Senators Manny and Cynthia Villar and family of Savannah township, Cabinet Secretaries Armin Luistro of More on Region 8, pages 6-7. education, Ramon Jimenez of tourism and Joel Villanueva of Also CLICK Here...

TESDA, Iloilo vice governor Raul Tupas, Iloilo City vice mayor

Jose Espinosa III and other guests.

The event initiated by Middle Way Meditation Institute intended to promote world peace that starts with inner peace in every person.

The local participants comprised thousands of teachers and students as well as volunteers from various public and private organizations. Foreign participants came from Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Estonia, India, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, Taiwan, United States of America, United Kingdom and Vietnam.

Archbishop Lagdameo, a Muslim religious leader and Buddhist monk led the prayer at the start of the program.

Middle Way also organized the world record breaking event for the Philippines for the most number of sky lanterns, 15,185, lighted during an event held in Miag-ao, Iloilo in 2013.

(JCM/JSC-PIA6)

WESTERN VISAYAS

2 Volunteerism development

now

new

currency

for Typhoon Yolanda damages in the province of Capiz

BY: LEONARD T. PINEDA I ILOILO CITY, April 15 (PIA) --- Gawad Kalinga Executive Director Jose Luis Oquiñena said that volunteerism is the new currency for development.

I

n the closing ceremonies of the Bayani Challenge 2014 held Tuesday in Iloilo City, Oquiñena said that volunteerism can tap massive resources from people that even the poorest can contribute.

“When we work together and we join hands together, what is built is not the school or a house but the sense of nationhood,” he said.

He said that the phrase “Walang Iwanan” (leaving no one behind) is used as this year‟s tagline for the Bayani Challenge event because there is a need for us to be

intimately connected to each other.

“We cannot be disassociated from the pains or issues of the people from Luzon or Mindanao nor they can be disassociated from the sufferings of the people here in the Visayas,” he said.

He said that Filipinos should expect help from one another when disaster strikes or when issues are being faced by our fellow countrymen.

He also lauded the 100 percent participation of the 180 barangays during the city-wide do day clean up activity held Saturday as part of the Bayani Challenge

here in Iloilo City.

Aside from the city-wide clean up activity, the Bayani Challenge 2014 event has also accomplished the following: path walk build, house build, crochet workshop, health mission, and the paraisong pambata workshop.

The Bayani Challenge 2014 is considered the largest volunteer action in history with one million expected volunteers in 12 provinces for two months of nation-building slated from April 11 to June 12. (JCM/LTP/ PIA-Iloilo)

DOLE gives ‘RAY’ of hope to Yolanda victims BY: LILIBETH A. FRENCH ILOILO CITY, April 14 (PIA 6) - - The Department of Labor and Employment 6 (DOLE 6) rekindled hopes of more than 600 marginal farmers, fisherfolk and women from the northern part of the province of Iloilo to rebuild their lives and livelihood after the devastation caused by typhoon ‗Yolanda‘ in November last year.

D

OLE Undersecretary Ciriaco Lagunzad assisted by DOLE 6 Director Ponciano Ligutom turned over four checks amounting to P3,609,821.00 to affected local government units from the northern part of Iloilo under the Reconstruction Assistance for Yolanda (RAY), its convergence program with the Department of Science and Technology on April 11.

Lagunzad was here in Iloilo City to lead the launching/re-launching of the various programs and services of the department.

The first check worth P874, 371,00 was awarded to the LGU of Ajuy to fund the commercial native chicken production of its 117 marginal farmers and fisherfolk.

Another check amounting to P737,500.00 was handed in to the

LGU of Lemery to finance the proposed swine fattening project of its 110 women which was approved under the program.

Some P998,000.00 worth of check was also awarded to Brgy. Alipato, Sicogon Island in the municipality of Carles for the restoration of the livelihood of 253 fisherfolk through the provision of cargo vessels and small fishing boats.

The local government unit of San Dionisio received the fourth check worth P999,950,000 for the restocking of farm animals such as swine, native chicken and goat of its 150 marginal farmers.

RAY formerly named as Rebuilding through Innovation, Sustainable Employment and Enterprise (RISE) aims to provide temporary means of livelihood to survivors of the super typhoon to be able to rebuild

their lives.

Also, former overseas Filipino workers, laborers, Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries and other marginal farmers in the province received their checks for their approved livelihood projects under the DOLE‟s programs such as the Reintegration program fo r OFWs, Gra ssroo ts Participatory Budgeting formerly called BUB, and DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program during the launching activity.

Ligutom said, all in all, a total of P5,872,724.00 worth of checks was released on that date to finance the implementation of the 13 approved projects that will provide employment and livelihood to some 1,001 beneficiaries in the city and province of Iloilo to ensure the attainment of inclusive growth. (JCM/LAF/ PIA6)

Silay prov’l hospital gets medical equipment BY: EASTER ANNE. D. DOZA NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, April 15 (PIA6) - - The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and Super Lucky Beagler, Inc. turned over several advanced medical equipment worth P1.2 million to Teresita L. Jalandoni Provincial Hospital in Silay City.

G

ov. Alfredo G. Marañon, Jr. received the donated equipment from PCSO General Manager, Atty.

Jose Ferdinand Rojas, II in a ceremony held at the hospital, together with Silay City Mayor Jose Montelibano and Chief of Hospital, Dr. Girlie Pinongan.

Marañon said he is grateful to PCSO because such donation is a great help to the hospital operations, especially in

assisting the needs of the indigents.

Meanwhile, Rojas said they are mandated to raise funds and help those who are in need, as part of the PCSO‟s corporate social responsibility.

Among the donated medical equipment were operating table with complete accessories, suction machine, wheelchairs for adults and children, anaesthesia machine, and obstetric

delivery and operating tables.

Economic Enterprise Development Department Head, Atty. Japhet Masculino, Hospital Operations Division Chief Dr. Rhoel Mogul, and Provincial Planning an d Deve lop men t C oordin ator, Dr. Marlin Sanogal witnessed the turn over rites at the hospital. *(JCM/EAD-PIA6/Capitol News Negros Occidental)

WESTERN VISAYAS

Typhoon Yolanda damages in Canas Island, Northern Iloilo

BFP reminds candles

3

public to be careful with

BY: PILAR S. MABAQUIAO

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) - - The Bureau of Fire Protection is reminding the public to be careful in their use of candles especially this Holy Week because it can cause fire.

S

FO2 Alex L. Ortiaga , Municipal Fire Marshall of San Jose Fire Station said it is a common practice among Christians to light candles during procession, in prayers, be in church , in roads where processions are held, in the stations of the cross or in households.

This should be used with caution because when left unattended it can cause fire and can destroy life and properties, he said.

The public are also reminded, he said to put off lamps when leaving the

house. Electrical appliances such as fans, stoves, television, cellphones, among others should be unplugged when not in use to avoid overheating that spark the fire. It is also during Holy Week, said Ortiaga that native delicacy such as „bibingka‟ is sold near churches.Preparation of this requires fire from firewood or charcoal and when not handled carefully can blow up into a big fire. Ortiaga said, a fire truck in San Jose will be stationed near San Jose Cathedral and the other one will be mobile and

ready in case of emergencies from other places.

For the towns of Anini-y, Tobias Fornier and Hamtic, there are assigned personnel designated as Fire Safety Inspectors ready to wire the station when needed. The source urged the public to be vigilant and be proactive in helping the campaign on fire prevention.

The BFPs „Oplan Iwas Sunog ngayong Tag-init‟ needs the support of everyone, Ortiaga said. (JCM/PSM/PIA6 Antique)

Capiz farmers get additional ‘freebies’ to boost production BY: ALEX A. LUMAQUE ROXAS CITY, Capiz, April 15 (PIA6) – Secretary Proceso Alcala of the Department of Agriculture (DA) said that the government will provide a free hybrid palay seeds for the 15-hectare rice fields initially served by the Maayon Communal Irrigation Project (CIP) for the upcoming planting season.

T

his was disclosed by Alcala during th e in au gu r at ion of t h e P201-million Maayon CIP at the project‟s dam site in Brgy. Jebacca in Maayon town last April 11.

The hybrid palay variety could double rice production of farmers every cropping season.

Th e p alay seeds an d t h e multi-million irrigation project are expected to contribute to the increase of the province‟s annual rice production from 3.572.40 metric tons to 6.193.20 MT. Maayon CIP was fast track upon the advice of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III to

agriculture officials during his visit for a consultation dialogue with local officials and Capiceños last February 2013 in the municipality of Sigma.

The DA official has also directed the seeding of native hito (catfish) in the dam as additional livelihood for farmer-beneficiaries.

“Within this month we must release native hito fingerlings in the area,” Alcala stressed.

The pronouncement of Alcala for a big tractor for the agriculture-based town also drew applause from the local officials and farmer-beneficiaries during the program.

Cong. Antonio A. Del Rosario and Maayon mayor Wilfredo E. Borres led the local officials who witnessed the inauguration rites.

Alcala has also pushed for intercropping in the vicinity of the dam and coverage areas of the CIP. The project will benefit some 843 farmers in barangays Batabat, Piña, Salgan, Poblacion Ilaya, Poblacion Ilawod and Fernandez in Maayon and Cabugao and Cabanganhan in the adjacent town of Panit-an.

The project deems to irrigate an area of 780 hectares. (JCM/AAL/PIA 6 Capiz)

French volunteers laud Pinoy bayanihan spirit BY: LEONARD T. PINEDA I ILOILO CITY, April 14 (PIA) --- Student volunteers from France praised the Filipino bayanihan spirit demonstrated during the Bayani Challenge 2014 here.

K

assia Habarek, 24, a student from Paris, said that she admired how Filipinos gather together to show their solidarity as one community and render help to others in need.

She said that this was her first time to take part in an activity like Bayani Challenge where volunteers give the best of themselves and work together toward the goal of expressing love for country and care for the poor.

“In France, we are used to just thinking for our self and not for other people so this activity has opened my mind,” she said.

She said that she enjoyed

doing activities for the event including constructing the path walk in one of the Gawad Kalinga villages, helping build houses for the needy, health missions, and interacting with children.

She said that when she returns to France she will share these experiences to her friends and think of similar activities that they could do in their place.

“I will ask my friends to come with me to the Philippines and also experience the Bayani Challenge next year,” she said.

Meanwhile, Katarina Jevtic, 22, also from Paris, said that Filipinos should continue to be united and to be of service

to others.

She said that she agrees with one of the slogan of the Bayani Challenge event that “if you have a dream, just build it.”

Habarek and Jevtic are volunteers from Aide Mondiale (World Relief), a humanitarian association from the Institut Supérieur de Commerce (ISC) de Paris which operates in three different continents.

Each year, students from ISC Paris go on humanitarian mission in countries where the organization operates providing moral, financial and material support to disadvantaged people. (JCM/LTP/ PIA-Iloilo)

4

CENTRAL VISAYAS

NegOr to be declared ‘conflict-manageable, development-ready’ BY: JENNIFER C. TILOS

Typhoon Yolanda damages in Bantayan Island, Cebu

DUMAGUETE CITY, April 11 (PIA) --- With the continued strengthening of peace efforts in Negros Oriental, a joint declaration of "Conflict-Manageable and Development Ready Province" will be held on April 28 at the Perdices Memorial Coliseum, this city.

A

ccording to Deputy Commander Col. Cristopher Estella of the 302nd Infantry Brigade, with the Oplan Bayanihan and military combat operations, the New Peoples‟ Army (NPA) forces continue to dwindle fast.

A recent encounter between NPA forces and government troops in Pamplona town resulted to two rebels killed and a number of them wounded and the recovery of high-powered firearms.

Col. Estella said the military has reduced the level of the enemy‟s capabilities to threaten the stability of the government and for the civil authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of Negrenses.

He added that based on some parameters, the

NPA‟s support system has been greatly reduced in the hinterland barangays, as the residents themselves informed the military through text messages the presence of unidentified armed men in the area.

“Once a province is declared as conflict manageable and development-ready, there are advantages that enhance the general feeling of security for the Negrenses, and the province will experience development in its economic and boost tourism industry,” Col. Estella explained.

Expected to sign the joint declaration in a formal ceremony include Gov. Roel Degamo, Armed Forces of the Philippines Commander of 3ID Major General Aurelio Baladad, and Regional Director P/ CSupt. Danilo Constantino of Police Regional

Office-7.

Meantime, more Bayanihan Team Operations and combat focus operations will be conducted by the Army to stop insurgents.

Instead of engaging in armed conflict, the Army also encourages militants to consider different avenues in returning to the “folds of the law” such as asking for assistance from local government units, the military official said.

Col. Estella said the Army continues its efforts to collaborate with the LGUs, government agencies, non-government organizations, and the local communities in pursuing the goal of the province to become insurgency-free. (rmn/JCT/MMB/ PIA7 Negros Oriental)

More women in "manly" industries BY: JUJU MANUBAG-EMPUERTO CEBU --- More and more Filipino women are now breaking the mold dictated by gender stereotypes which perceive Filipinas to stay home and care for the family instead of entering the workforce, especially in industries considered "manly" or dominated by men.

O

ne such woman is Shemvie Malinao, 30, a welder now working at Metaphil Corporation in Tipolo, Mandaue City.

Malinao said that since she joined the company, she has been upgraded three times, from Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) to Slux Cord Arc Welding (SCAW), then to Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW).

Every time she gets an upgrade, she uses different kinds of electrode sticks, while her pay also increases.

"Right now, I am receiveing a salary that is above the daily minimum wage rate," she said.

Malinao acquired and honed her welding skills

from the welding course offered by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA -7) which she finished in 2007.

The course is good for 268 hours, or 15 days.

Malinao said she did not have a hard time seeking employment since she was hired at Metaphil shortly after her graduation.

Last year, 38 women finished the course Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC II at TESDA-7, while 163 women completed the same course from private facilities.

Now, Malinao dreams of working abroad for she believes that women welders like her are preferred at the international market.

In a data released by TESDA-7, there were a total of 14,386 women graduated from private technical vocational institutions while 2,545 women graduated from the regional training center and four others provincial training centers in Cebu Province last year.

TESDA's training centers in Cebu are located in Minglanilla, Toledo, Carmen and Daanbantayan.

TESDA is encouraging more women to avail of the technical courses they are currently offering.

As TESDA Secretary Joel Villanueva said, "Jobs come easy when one possesses the knowledge and skills relevant to what the industries and employers need." (rmn/JSME/PIA-Cebu)

DTI-7 intensifies consumer welfare campaign BY: HAZEL F. GLORIA CEBU CITY, April 11 (PIA) --- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-7) in the region intensified its consumer welfare campaign on the rights and responsibilities of the public to be vigilance in addressing illegal trade practices or the selling of inferior and unsafe goods and services in the marketplace.

A

ccording to Jojie Villamor, Information Officer of DTI-7 during the Association of Governmen t Information Officers (AGIO-7) Forum, the consumers must learned to fight and protect their rights for the benefit of all.

Villamor enumerated the eight basic consumer rights. The very first is Right to Basic Needs which guaranteed survival, adequate food, clothing, shelter, health care, education and sanitation.

Second, Right to Safety to protect the consumers against the marketing of goods or the provision of services that are hazardous to health and life.

Third, Right to Information – the right to protect against dishonest or misleading advertising or labeling and the right to be given the facts and information needed to make an informed choice.

Fourth, Right to Choose for the products at competitive prices with an assurance of satisfactory quality.

Fifth, Right to Representative – this is the right to express consumer interest in the making and execution of government policies.

Sxth, Right to Redress to be compensated for misrepresentation, shoddy goods or unsatisfactory services.

Seventh, Right to Consumer Education which is to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to be an informed customer.

Eighth, Right to a Healthy Environment with the right to live and work in an environment which is neither threatening nor dangerous and which permits a life of dignity and well-being.

Villaor said, these rights have accompanying responsibilities. She added that to effectively assert the consumers rights, the public must take on five duties.

Critical awareness--this is the responsibility to stay alert and questioning on the use of, and the price and quality of good and services we procure for ourselves.

Action-- to assert ourselves and act to ensure that we get a fair deal. If we remain passive, we can become prime targets for exploitation, Villamor added.

Social concern -- as responsible citizens, we

should always bear in mind the impact of our consumption on other citizens especially the disadvantaged sector of our society.

Environmental awareness-- this is the consumers‟ responsibility to understand the environmental consequences of our consumption and to conserve our natural resources and protect the Earth for future generations to enjoy as well.

Lastly, Villamor said, Solidarity to organize together as consumers to develop the strength and influence to promote and protect our interest.

In a related development, DTI-7 will roll out its small and medium enterprises (SME) Roving Academy starting in March with a series of entrepreneurship briefings and sessions to include various business development services.

DTI-7 targets 98 SME Roving Academy for this year. The program is a continuous learning for the development of micro, small and medium enterprises to become competitive in the domestic and international markets. (mbcn/ HFG/PIA-7)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

Earthquake damages in Bohol

5

Siquijor magic spells ‘Healing Festival’ BY: RIZALIE A. CALIBO

SIQUIJOR, April 11 (PIA) -- As everyone prepares for the Holy week, so is Siquijor province for the ―Healing Festival‖ come April 16 to 19 at the Bandilaan Mountain View Park in Cantabon, Siquijor, Siquijor.

D

uring these days, folk healers, herbalists, hilots (masseurs), locals, domestic and foreign tourists gather once again to join and witness the showcase of traditional healing products and methods indigenous to the mystical island of Siquijor.

Siquijor provincial tourism officer, Jossette Almirola said, the festival is the time for Siquijor Island to boost its tourism potentials as more and more people coming every year to witness the gathering and preparation of medicinal potions or observe the healing session or simply need to get healed.

What used to be just a customary gathering of healers and herbalists from the island and some from Visayas and Mindanao, the „Healing Festival‟ is now attracting a number of tourists and is popularized to become one of the island‟s attractions.

The provincial government tags it as „Healing Festival‟ to bring positive twist on the island‟s mystical repute in line with its thrust to promote Siquijor as a „Healing Island‟.

Now on its fifth year, the „Healing Festival‟ once again showcases the alternative and traditional healing to include “Pangalap” or the gathering of various kinds of herbs for seven

Fridays from March 7 – April 18 of the Lenten season.

“Pag-adlep” or chopping of gathered herbs on Maundy Thursday, April 17; and “Pagluto” or herbal brewing by the San Antonio healers and herbalists group on Black Saturday, April 19.

Several other activities also spice up the whole festivity that is opened on April 16 (Holy Wednesday) with a Holy Mass with Msgr.

Candelario Catubig as the Celebrant.

Opening program follows with presentations from the Cantabon Elementary School and the Local government unit of Siquijor.

Product display and activities dubbed “exploring Cantabon Cave”, “Sikihod” Spa Massage, “Bolo-bolo” healing and Healing Sessions with various healers at their designated spots are also open on this day until the end of the festival.

On the 17th (Maundy Thursday), Siquijor Tennis Club will have the TUNGAS 2014, a 10K Reflection Walk to the Cross at Mt. Bandilaan while the Tribu Walof Mountaineers Club will have its “Angat Panaad 2014,” a Holy Trek from the Queengate Center in Larena, Siquijor to Mt. Bandilaan.

Presentations from the local government units of Maria and Larena are also lined up with the

Performing Acoustic Band dubbed “Bolo-Bolo Roots” in the evening.

Good Friday (April 18) is when the Via Crucis (The Way of the Cross) is made at 7:30 in the morning. It will be followed with a presentation from LGU Lazi.

Black Saturday (April 19) the pack-up day but several other local entertainments are also done prior to ending the festival.

According to the Provincial Tourism Office, in the past festivals, love potions are the island‟s tops selling products.

They come in a couple of variants, either in oil or non-liquid form, to be stirred with your favorite perfume and cologne.

Herbal potion, on the other hand, is accordingly, what Siquijor‟s host of folk healers use for many, many years.

It is especially-brewed medicinal liniment to treat physical ailments, which they believe are either brought about by natural and or supernatural causes. It‟s a kind of festivity that also spells the Siquijor magic.

Mystifying in every angle, Siquijor is a destination of picturesque sunsets, unexplored coves, and stunning sites just waiting to be discovered. (mbcn/RAC/PIA7-Siquijor)

Cebu police ready for Holy Week, vacation months BY: FERLIZA CALIZAAR-CONTRATISTA CEBU CITY, April 11 (PIA) --- Security measures are now in place in Cebu province for the Holy Week period.

I

n yesterday's Talakayan sa Isyung Police (TSIP) forum at the Police Regional Office (PR0-7), police officials assured the public that it's all systems go when it comes to safety and security concerns for the whole province and the surrounding islets.

P/SSupt. Edwardo Carranza, Regional Chief Directorial Staff, said starting this week, all police units in the region are strictly following a Memorandum Circular covering security plans for the summer vacation and Holy Week observance.

Carranza said they already prepared for the influx of domestic and international tourists who will troop to the leisure spots or go back home in the provinces.

“We are directing all units to focus on areas of convergence such as ports and seaports, terminals, churches, hotels and resorts. Cellular phone

numbers of police personnel assigned in those areas are also noted from the unit commanders to the PRO7 headquarters,” Carranza said, In Cebu City, P/SSupt. Arnel Banzon said that other than the churches, they also dispersed personnel in the venue of "Buhing Kalbaryo" in Brgy.

Guadalupe as well as in the Good Shepherd mountains where devotees will be doing the Stations of the Cross.

In Mandaue City, P/Supt. Crisaleo Tolentino, representing Mandaue City Police Office, said they are monitoring ten churches, three seaports, and four malls in the vicinity.

Banks are also being monitored. Mandaue City had so far launched a new digital close circuit televisions in target areas.

In Lapulapu City, P/Supt. Percival Zorilla said under their jurisdiction are one jeepney, two

van-for-hire terminals, four wharves, one airport, and six churches considered as Areas of Concern.

He said they are setting up more than 20 tourist and police assistance centers in Lapulapu including two at the foot of the first Mandaue Mactan Bridge and Marcelo Fernan Bridge.

Zorilla said they used security guards in the hotels and resorts as force multipliers.

For Cebu Provincial Police Office, P/Supt. Resty Santos said they are focusing on seven areas when it comes to tourist convergence.

These are Moalboal, Badian, Oslob, San Fernando, Santa Fe, and Madridejos.

He said in Bantayan island, where there are festivities during Holy Week, they are expecting lesser cases of snatching after they implemented the distribution and posting of pamphlets with the photos of snatchers. (rmn/FCC/PIA-Cebu)

Infra projects in Guihulngan City inaugurated By: JENNIFER C. TILOS DUMAGUETE CITY (PIA)— A five million peso road improvement project and several other infrastructures were inaugurated recently in Guihulngan City with Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo leading the event.

C

apitol information officer Adrian Sedillo said Gov. Degamo allocated funds for the road i m p r o v e m e n t p r o j e c t a l o n g th e Luz-Linantuyan road since he is aware that the road is very vital for the people in the hinterland barangays of Guihulngan which have been cited to have the presence of armed groups.

Sedillo said the governor highlighted the importance of Barangay Luz road as it hosts the community primary hospital and Barangay Linantuyan

which have been recently taken back by the government forces from the hands of the New People‟s Army.

The other infrastructures that were inaugurated included a road concreting project along some portions of the Linantuyan road funded by the national government through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), another road concreting project in Barangay Tinayunan worth P300,000.00 and the 1.5 million-peso drainage system

in Barangay Poblacion.

He explained that the Luz-Linatuyan road is considered a national highway but he recognizes the need for the provincial government to provide support as it is a very vital facility in order to bring about various developments in the hinterlands of Guihulngan City.

Gov. Degamo said all these projects were made possible in cooperation with the city government of Guihulngan. (mbcn/JCT/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

6

EASTERN VISAYAS

Young people pitch in Yolanda-hit communities recovery, rebuilding Typhoon Yolanda damages in Tacloban, Leyte

BY: ERLINDA OLIVIA P. TIU

PALO, Leyte, April 15 (PIA) – When some people felt there was no more hope left in the province of Leyte, they leave, but a young man of 20, Rhuel Malquisto opted to stay in his hometown Palo.

B

eing the president of the Palo Culture and the Arts Organization (PCAO), Rhuel organized young people in the municipality to help their fellow survivors.

Before the disaster, the group provided trainings and workshops in arts, theater, music, and dance in their community. These activities stopped in the aftermath of Yolanda.

“Our equipment were destroyed. At one point, we thought it was the end of our group.

We focused on what our families needed but, later on, we realized we could do more together. We can bring hope to everyone again,“ he said.

Using scrap materials, Rhuel and his friends started setting up signages that bring

messages of courage and optimism such as Tindog Palo (rise Palo) and Huwag kang susuko (don‟t give up) in public areas.

Their efforts didn‟t go unnoticed. UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, and its partner Save the Children, tapped Rhuel‟s group when they launched a Youth-Friendly Space (YFS) in front of the Palo Municipal Hall last March 27.

YFS is a venue for young people to be themselves, where they can freely speak about their personal issues and concerns about the community.

It provides a full range of services and information related to adolescent sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, psychosocial counseling, and referral

started to

linkages to other youth programmes and services. Seeing the positive impact of the YFS among Palo‟s youth and their potential in helping rebuild disaster-affected communities, the local government decided to allot a more permanent space for the activities in the municipal building. Ronnel Villas, UNFPA humanitarian coordinator for Tacloban, said involving the youth in the recovery process is a key element in the humanitarian response.

“It is important to support them because the decisions they make today will determine the quality of life of future generations,” he said.

There are eight YFS set up by UNFPA through Save the Children in Leyte province of Leyte. (PIA 8)

DILG orders LGUs to gear up security, safety preparations for Holy Week BY: ERLINDA OLIVIA P. TIU TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 15 (PIA) - The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has called on all local chief executives to convene their respective local peace and order councils to ensure the safety and security of the populace in churches, plazas, malls, and transport terminals.

T

his directive is line with the expected exodus of people to the provinces and other places of interest during Holy Week.

DILG Director Pedro Noval Jr. said in a directive to provincial governors, city and municipal mayors, and punong barangays, DILG Secretary Mar Roxas exhorted the local executives to formulate proper courses of action in order to anticipate the expected heavy movement of people from different places, putting their safety as a top priority.

According to the DILG chief, local government officials should also deploy barangay tanods who can serve as force

multipliers and assist the Philippine National Police (PNP) in keeping peace and order in their own barangays, as well as in making sure that traffic is well-managed.

The SILG also directed the LCEs to conduct cleanup operations in all public recreation areas, religious locations, and transport terminals in their areas, and to mobilize all necessary resources for the collection and disposal of garbage.

Moreover, SILG Roxas called on the PNP to continue to implement police visibility, mobile patrols and checkpoints to prevent crimes and other threats to peace and order.

He said the PNP should patrol crime-prone areas and be on guard for Akyat Bahay Gang members who are on the lookout for unattended houses, as well as pickpockets in places of public convergence.

The Bureau of Fire Protection is always ready to prevent and respond to fires and other accidents that may happen during the Holy Week, Secretary Roxas said.

Roxas advised the public to be more cautious and observe fire prevention measures like closing LPG valves, unplugging unused electrical devices, and switching off the main source of power when leaving their houses.

(PIA 8)

DPWH-4th LED road improvement projects advantageous to travelers ORMOC CITY, Leyte, April 15 (PIA) – The various road improvement projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Leyte Fourth Engineering District (4th LED) is a great advantage to travellers because according to some drivers it is more easier for them to drive in an improved, rehabilitated and widened roads than in the previous rough and narrow roads.

D

PWH-4th LED District Engr. Lino Francisco C. Gonzalez informed that to date, their office is concentrating in various road projects in their area and these are: the repair, rehabilitation and improvement along the Palo-Carigara-Ormoc Road; improvement of the off carriageway along National Road Ormoc-Albuera Diversion Road; widening of the national road along the Palo-Carigara-Ormoc Road; and the asphalt overlay along Libungao-Matag-ob-Palompon Road.

In the repair, rehabilitation and

improvement along the Palo-Carigara-Ormoc Road, it was bared that the project started last November 28, 2013 with a contract cost of P9,516,458.44 under the contractor Premium Megastructure.

For the improvement of the off Carri agewa y along Nat ional Road Ormoc-Albuera Diversion Road Gonzalez shared that the target date for the completion of the project was supposed to be last February 3, 2014 but until now said project, which has a contract cost of P3,500,000.00, is still ongoing.

With regards to the widening of the National Road along Palo-Carigara-Ormoc Road, the project which took off last February 7, 2014, is already 65.77% accomplished.

Under the contractor RJIR Enterprises the project is expected to benefit some 5,000 commuters.

And to provide safety to the travelling public and an protect the pavement from further damage, Dist. Engr. Gonzalez disclosed that an asphalt overlay along Libungao-Matag0b -Palompon Road is also currently being conducted. (PIA-8)

EASTERN VISAYAS

Typhoon Yolanda damages in Tacloban, Leyte

7

DAR-8 addresses the effects of Yolanda to tenants on coconut lands BY: CONSUELO B. ALARCON

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 14 (PIA) - In order to address and mitigate the effects of typhoon Yolanda to agricultural tenants of coconut lands devastated by the calamity, an Administrative Order No. 02 series of 2014 has been passed and is now in effect.

I

n a press conference held recently at Ritz Tower de Leyte, this city, Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Region 8 Director Eliasem Castillo explained the pertinent provisions particularly on the coverage, policy statements and operating procedures of Administrative Order no. 2 series of 2014.

It applies to all tenanted coconut landholdings, with or without a leasehold agreement which have been affected by natural calamities like what happened when Yolanda struck the region.

Castilllo has emphasized that a tenant-lessee cannot be ejected anytime from

his farm holding for his failure to pay lease rentals as a result of the devastation brought by super typhoon Yolanda or any calamity except upon order of the court or an authorized body.

In case the coconut plantations were totally destroyed, it does not mean that the tenancy relationship has been extinguished by the fortuitous event or natural disaster.

“A tenant shall have the right to renegotiate a new leasehold agreement with the landowner specifying the new terms and conditions of their tenancy relations or agreement particularly with respect to the payment rentals, planting of crops and change

of crops if necessary, and upon agreement,” Castillo said.

“A.O. no. 2 series of 2014 is clear. It only covers those tenanted coconut lands affected

by Yolanda and other natural calamities”, the DAR official said.

To date, the total coconut land area tenanted in Leyte alone is 4, 881 hectares.

It can be recalled that coconut farmers in the region were among those who suffered following the destruction of their plantations in November last year when super typhoon Yolanda wrought havoc in Eastern Visayas and other regions.

(PIA-8)

Town Mayor in Leyte commends WFP BY: CONSUELO B. ALARCON TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 14 (PIA) – A local official of the Municipality of Dulag Leyte, one of the municipalities hit by super typhoon Yolanda has expressed his heartfelt thanks to several international organizations who are continuously helping in the recovery efforts of the government. n a press conference held recently at the the participation of WFP Philippines National s u p p o r t e d b y t h e W o r l d F o o d municipal ground of the town, Mayor Ambassador against Hunger KC Concepcion, a Programme (WFP) through their various Manuel Sia que of Dulag, Leyte popular celebrity who has been in the WFP for programs in coordination with the mentioned some international organizations six (6) years now. government. particularly the World Food Programme “In behalf of the people of the municipality It can be recalled that during the early (WFP) who has been providing support of Dulag we are very much thankful today of days following Yolanda‟s wrath, WFP has to the Yolanda survivors starting from the the presence of the World food immediately mobilized its logistic assets to distribution of relief goods to the recovery Programme. support the government and the humanitarian efforts.

A total of 34 thousand metric tons of communities in the delivery of humanitarian The World Food Programme distributed foods have already reached the Yolanda assistance. ready- to-eat supplementary food and affected communities including hi-energy It was learned that WFP feeds an average micronutrient powder to children aged biscuits, rice, among others. of more than 90 million people in 70 countries between 6 to 59 months in Dulag, Leyte with About 3 million people have been each year. (PIA-8)

I

First environment summit to highlight Earth Day celebration in SoLeyte BY: ERNA GORNE MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, April 14 (PIA) - The provincial government of Southern Leyte will conduct the first environment summit to highlight the Earth Day Celebration come April 22, 2014 in Maasin City.

A

ccording to Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Management Office (PENRMO) Department Head Dr. Eva Abad, “the Provincial Government of Southern Leyte through the leadership of environmentalist Governor Roger Mercado will gather all key stakeholders to listen, share and discuss major milestones in the protection and conservation of environment in Southern Leyte.”

With the theme: “Protecting and Sustaining Southern Leyte's Web of Life”, the summit aims to promote the best practices, identify present issues and challenges for more advocates and pro-active stewards of Mother

Nature, Abad further said.

The best practices that PENRMO wish to present are the successful forest management by the YISEDA experience, the integrated coastal management by the Macrohon Marine Park experience, solid waste management of the Macrohon LGU experience and Sustainable & Integrated for Local Government Ecosystems (SIMPLE) of the Silago LGU experience also, she added.

Aside from the best practices, there will be also a plenary session on the Ridge to Reef approach in environment and rural development, she said.

Dr. Abad said the Southern Leyte Environment Code will also be presented

during the said summit.

There will breakout session on the following topics: Forest, Biodiversity and Climate Change, ICM for Food Security, Biodiversity and Climate Change, Waste Management and Climate Change, Mineral Resources Management and Climate Change and SIMPLE for Good Environmental Governance, all with respective resource persons to facilitate the discussions, she noted.

Towards the end of the summit, Governor Roger Mercado will lead in the legitimization of the Southern Leyte Sustainable Development Council, it was learned. (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