One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 5 Issue 26

Vol 5

Issue 26

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Atty. Mohammad Al-Amin Julkipli, a member of the Government Peace Negotiating Panel (GPNP) legal team explains the salient provisions of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) during a briefing and forum held Tuesday, June 30, 2015 at Iloilo Grand Hotel here. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

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Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

June 29 – July 5, 2015

Aquino leads groundbreaking of PH’s 1st airport-resort Ferliza C. Contratista CEBU CITY, June 30 (PIA)— President Benigno ―Noynoy‖ Aquino led the groundbreaking of the P32-billion modernization of the Mactan Cebu International Airport. It is the first ever airport project in the country done through Private-Public Partnership (PPP) venture.

In his speech, Aquino said, the development of Cebu‘s airport is seen to bring in inclusive growth for the whole province and the country as well.

Aquino narrated that for every tourist that comes in, an initial $1,000 immediately adds up to the economy.

Other than that, other beneficiaries of the tourism sector do not require a degree or a diploma to feel its ―low-lying fruits‖.

He said many can partake opportunities created by the sector. These include those that are in the hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, including services from the tour guides and drivers.

The development is undertaken jointly with Megawide Construction Corporation (GMR) creating the GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC).

Aquino said that major developments to be undertaken will increase passenger capacity from 4.5 million to 12.5 million every year.

Cebu Provincial Governor Hilario Davide III said

Cebuanos are proud as this will be the first resort airport in the country. ―The airport gives the first impression of Cebu and we thanked the President for the project,‖ Davide said.

On the other hand GMCAC President Louie Ferrer the new terminal is slated for completion by summer 2018. Its total investment amounted to P32 billion for phase 1 development of Terminal 2.

Other cabinet officials present during the groundbreaking include Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) Undersecretary for Legal Affairs and Procurement Jose Perpetuo Lotilla, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretary Manuel Roxas and PPP executive director Cosette Canillo.

Chairman Grandhi Mallikajurna Rao of the GMR Group of Companies was also present during the affair. (mbcn/fcc/ PIA7-Cebu)

Beauties from Palo, MacArthur grab Ms Pintados, Ms Teen Pintados titles CENTRAL VISAYAS

President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the g r o u n d b r e a k i n g ce r e m o n y o f th e Mactan-Cebu International Airport New Passenger Terminal Building during his visit to Cebu, June 29, 2015. (PIA Cebu)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

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EASTERN VISAYAS

MISS PINTADOS 2015 Leyte governor Leopoldo Dominico ―Mic‖ Petilla (right) and producer Kitchi Benedicto crowned the Miss Pintados 2015 Niña Sherra Tagalog of Palo Leyte during the beauty pageant held at the Leyte National High School Gymnasium, Tacloban City, June 25. (Raul Tiozon , Jr./ PIA-8)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

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CONSUELO B. ALARCON TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 26 (PIA) – A 22year-old lass from Palo, Leyte won this year‘s Search for Miss Pintados held Thursday at the Leyte National High School gymnasium, this city.

Aside from her stunningly fit body and beauty, what made Nina Sherra Tagalog stand out was her ability to project herself as an elegant woman onstage.

She also impressed the judges and the audience of her conservative answer during the Q & A portion of the pageant when TV host Boy Abunda asked her ―If it‘s okey for a male teacher to court his female student?‖ Her answer was in the negative saying ―It‘s unethical for a teacher to court her female student for it will affect the integrity and professional relations between a teacher and a student.‖ Said answer was responded by a resounding applause from the audience.

Tagalog also grabbed other special awards such as Ms. Executive facial care and Ms. Pepsi.

Completing the finalists for Miss Pintados 2015 were

Cyril Valera of Sulat Eastern Samar as first runner-up, Gretchen Gler of Naval, Biliran as 2nd runner-up, Michelle Cubilla of Tacloban, City as 3rd runner-up and Ma. Aila Nicole Paele of Tanauan, Leyte as 4th runner-up.

Meanwhile, a 16 year old lass from Macarthur, Leyte grabbed the title as Miss Teen Pintados 2015.

Chelsea Fernandez won the highest title among 12 contestants. She went on to win many special awards such as Best in Swimsuit, Texter‘s Choice, executive facial care and Miss teen Goldilocks.

Niza Mae Tano of Tacloban City got the first runner-up; Charmin Tablate of Calubian Leyte won as 2nd runner-up; Chloe Shania Nacar as 3rd runner-up and I-ram Armada of Tacloban, City as 4th runner-up.

There are 12 contestants for the Search for Miss Teen Pintados whose ages ranged from 13-17 years old while the contestants for the Search for Miss Pintados which also numbered 12 were aged 18-24 years old.

The beauty pageant was part of the celebration of the fiesta of Sr. Sto. Nino on June 30. (ajc/cba/PIA-8)

Myths on the BBL debunked Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, June 30 (PIA6) --- A member of the Government Peace Negotiating Panel (GPNP) clarified misinformation on certain provisions of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

In a briefing and forum on the BBL held Tuesday at the Iloilo Grand Hotel here, Atty. Mohammad Al-Amin Julkipli said the public should be very cautious in dealing with these reports so as not to hamper their understanding of the proposed law.

He debunked the myth that the Bangsamoro will be an independent state separate from the Philippines, with its inhabitants having a citizenship different from the rest of the Filipinos. ―The Bangsamoro will not be an independent state and will remain part of the territory of the Republic of the Philippines and the inhabitants will remain as Filipino citizens,‖ he stressed.

Julkipli emphasized that a majority vote in the plebiscite is needed for a local government unit to be included in the Bangsamoro territory and not just a resolution or a petition of at least 10 percent of the registered voters in the area.

He said that in terms of the implementation of the

Shari‘ah Law in the Bangsamoro, it will apply to Muslims only as regular courts would still exist in Bangsamoro and that the Supreme Court has the ultimate power of reviewing all decisions by the Shari‘ah courts.

He also clarified that proposed Bangsamoro agencies will not supplant nor will they, in any way, derogate from or take away the constitutional powers and duties of the Constitutional Commissions and other constitutionally-mandated offices.

The OPAPP official also refuted the issue that the Bangsamoro government will receive an initial funding of about P70- to P75-billion on its first year of operation in 2016.

He said that the total funding to be directly allocated to the Bangsamoro regional government for its initial year of operation will only amount to P35 billion, and this amount does not significantly depart from the current allocation for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

He also denied that members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members will automatically replace the police in the Bangsamoro areas and that the Bangsamoro police will be independent from the Philippine National Police (PNP). (JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

PH registers highest increase in palay production Lorenzo O. Lambatin Jr. BACOLOD CITY, June 30 (PIA6) -- With a national rice sufficiency level of 96 to 97 percent, the country will still continue to import rice to fill in the gap.

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n a recent press conference here, DA Sec. Proceso Alcala said although the target of achieving 100 percent sufficiency level in 2013 was not reached, yet the United States Department of Agriculture recognized the Philippines for registering the greatest increase in palay in the whole world for the last five years.

This proves the government is doing something right regarding palay production, he

told the local media.

Alcala noted that in 2010, the country‘s sufficiency level was only 82 percent, steadily rising to its present level.

One of the factors he mentioned for failing to reach the sufficiency target were the disaster the country suffered; although he clarified it is not the only reason.

A big factor was in the failure to have additional irrigated areas for planting palay.

Because of this, he said, there is a need to import rice citing as example the harvest right after the dry season reaching to a maximum harvest of only 42 percent.

Although, the Aquino administration is still importing rice, he pointed out the combined figure of rice importation of the present government from 2011 through 2014 is only equivalent to one year importation of the previous administration. (JCM/Lljr-PIA6)

DENR-DPWH Roadside tree planting answer to tree-cutting Lilibeth A. French ILOILO CITY, July 1 (PIA6) - - The Department on Environment and Natural Resources and Department of Public Works and Highways in Western Visayas have agreed to further enhance their joint tree planting and growing along roadsides.

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ENR 6 Director Jim Sampulna and DPWH 6 Director Edilberto Tayao formalized the agreement with the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) on Tuesday, June 30, at the DPWH 6 Conference Room here. DENR Undersecretary for Field Operations Demetrio Ignacio, Jr. and DPWH Undersecretary for Technical Services Raul Asis also signed as witnesses to the MOA. In his message, Ignacio commended the DPWH for the initiative and hoped that this will be replicated nationwide.

He said roadside tree cutting has become a major issue in infrastructure projects ―maraming infrastructure projects natin, yong pinakamalalaki yan po ay naantala, nadedelay yan dahil sa isyu ng tree cutting and the roadside tree planting activity of the DPWH is an ideal solution to the roadside tree cutting problem. ―Mawawala ang problema sa tree cutting sa roadside kung ang DPWH ang magtatanim dahil alam niyo kung saan magtatanim,‖ said Ignacio.

Under the agreement, DENR shall assist the DPWH in the survey and mapping of identified areas in the determination of appropriate species to be planted which it will provide.

It will also provide technical assistance to the DPWH in their tree planting and growing activities and assist in the conduct of periodic monitoring and documentation of the said tree plantation.

On its part, DPWH in coordination with DENR will identify and conduct survey and mapping of roadsides that will be subjected to tree planting activities it will undertake as an integral part of its regular road maintenance program. It will also maintain a close coordination with DENR in the implementation of the activity. Likewise, conduct a periodic monitoring and decumentation of the established plantations.

The initiative is also in accordance with DPWH Department Order No. 15 series of 2000 and DPWH being a partner of DENR in the implementation of the National Greening Program as

mandated under Executive Order No. 26 issued by President Benigno Aquino III. DPWH Department Order No. 15 makes the planting of trees along national roads as a standard component of all road construction and improvement projects requiring the inclusion of said activity to the engineering design, program of work, estimates budget, and bidding and contract documents of these projects.

All the provincial and city environment and natural resources officers of DENR and district engineers of DPWH in the region are also involved to ensure that the implementation of the program at the field level will be successful.

The joint efforts seek to address the following: to add value to urban areas; to mitigate climate change; to enhance beauty of the roadside; to provide shed to commuters; and to minimize glare from sunlight to drivers along the roads. (JCM/LAF/ PIA-Iloilo)

Programs for PWD need more improvement Vicente W. Villavert SAN JOSE, Antique, July 2 (PIA6) - - The accessibility features for persons with disabilities (PWD) in several business establishments and even in government offices do not comply with the guidelines stipulated under Batas Pambansa 344 (BP 344).

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We still have a lot of areas to improve on in the implementation of the law, and this further delays the services intended for the PWD,‖ Andres Rhudy B. Ravelo, Jr., National Council on Disability Affairs representative said during the PIA interview. BP 344, passed by the Batasang Pambansa on December 7, 1982 is otherwise known as an Act to enhance mobility of disable persons by requiring certain buildings, institutions, establishments and public utilities and other devices.

Section 1 of BP 344 states that in order to promote the realization of the rights of disabled persons to participate fully in the social life and the development of the societies in which they live and the enjoyment of the opportunities available to other citizens, no license or permit for the construction, repair or renovation of public and private buildings for public use,

educational institutions, airports, sports and recreation centers and complexes, shopping centers or establishments, public parking places, work-places, public utilities, shall be granted or issued unless the owner or operator thereof shall install and incorporate in such building, establishment, institution or public utility, such architectural facilities or structural features as shall reasonably enhance the mobility of disabled persons such as sidewalks, ramps, railings and the like.

Ravelo said that while some establishments have accessibility features in their buildings, still it does not follow the correct specifications and forms of stairs, ramps, railings and other features meant for persons with disabilities.

Ravelo was here in San Jose de Buenavista to facilitate the two-day orientation seminar to increase the level of awareness of the PWD

leaders, partner government agencies and stakeholders on the various programs aimed at improving the lot of the PWDs. The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) representative discussed during the two-day seminar the topics on NCDA update; Disability inclusive and accessibility updates; Review of NCDA Vision/Mission and Goals; Review of Incheon Goals/Targets/PWD Republic Act. The activity also include the Review and discussion of DSWD Administrative Order; and updates on PWD programs and services. Ravelo hoped that the community will give full support and opportunities to the PWDs, so that they can also enjoy their rights and as well contribute to the society, and for such an attitudinal shift to happen, they can go back to the mainstream like anybody else. (JCM/VWV/PIA Antique)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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1,000 Capiz farmers now proud landowners Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, July 2 (PIA6) – More than 1,000 Capiceños have availed of the free patents titles of the government.

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ndersecretary Demetrio Ignacio Jr. of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources with the Capiz officials led the distribution of free patent land titles to qualified recipients in Capiz, July 1.

Capiz DENR head Valentin Talabero said that the more than 700 hectares of public land were distributed to the 1,000 free patent beneficiaries in Capiz who came from the different towns here. ―This is the first time that we have the Handog Titulo mass distribution of title in Capiz and the fast tracking of the titling of said lands was made possible with the help of the local government officials of Capiz,‖ Talabero said, citing among others the help of First District Congressman Antonio del Rosario and Governor Victor Tanco.

He said that the program aims to improve the lives of the farmers here by providing them

land to call their own.

Governor Tanco likewise emphasized the importance of having in the hands of the farmers the land title that they have been waiting for, pointing that the title is the evidence of their ownership over said land where they have been living for a number of years already.

He said that with such free patent title now, they have something to leave to their children and grand children later on, to improve their lives, reminding the beneficiaries to take care of the land given to them by the government.

For Congressman Del Rosario, the distribution of free patent tiles to the landless farmers here is an answered dream from the government under the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III. ―Having in your hand the title showing your ownership over the land which you have been occupying, you will not be displaced anymore",

Del Rosario said. He said he hopes that the Handog Titulo program of the government will improve the lives of the marginalized farmers.

He also assured the Capiceños of the continued support of the government through various social services programs that are geared towards improving the lives of the people.

Aside from the free patent title, the beneficiaries were also given free medicines and vitamins courtesy of the Department of Health and Capiz Provincial Health Office which was facilitated by the Office of Congressman Del Rosario.

Also present during the mass distribution of titles at the Capiz Gymnasium were DENR Executive Director Jim Sampulna, Vice Governor Esteban Evan Contreras, Roxas City Vice Mayor Ronnie Dadivas and some municipal and national government officials here. (JCM/JBG/PIA6-Capiz)

NGP shifts strategy for sustainability

By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, June 29 (PIA6)—The government’s National Greening program has shifted strategy to ensure sustainability.

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he Department of Environment and Natural Resources here has focused more on community-driven development approach which linked with organized people‘s organizations near planting sites.

Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Bernabe Garnace said that during the initial stages they implemented the NGP through mass social mobilization for tree planting activities. ―Everybody, the whole bureaucracy, members of the academe, private sector and individuals were asked to plant trees, hence, the high number of participants,‖ Garnace said.

DENR-6 records showed that in Western Visayas, 131,342 individuals joined the NGP in 2011; 65,254 in 2012; 44,183 individuals participated in 2013; and, 29,365 in 2014.

The decline, according to Garnace, was due to the shift in approach. ―At present the POs do the planting, the maintenance and the protection of the NGP sites,‖ Garnace said.

He added that it is not only the planting but tree growing as well, nurturing and restoring the degraded forested areas, to address in short term the poverty in the uplands and coastal areas. ―The DENR has contracts with the different POs, from seedling production, site preparation, hauling of planting

materials, planting of seedlings and maintaining plantation sites,‖ Garnace said.

Part also of the sustainability was the infusion of planting of fruit-bearing trees and other crops like coffee and cacao, including fuelwood tree species, to create economic activities or sources of livelihood for people in the NGP sites.

He also noted that the planting sites become farther and very distant as the years pass, so the POs are serving a great role.

Meanwhile, the DENR-6 remains ahead of its target in terms of areas planted for NGP, with a total of 36,775 hectares, out of its target of 36,454 target, planted in the region from 2011-2014. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

4 Aklan nominees vie for Red Orchid award

By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, July 1 (PIA6) -- The province of Aklan has four (4) nominees for this year’s Red Orchid Award.

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n a recent meeting of the Provincial Tobacco Control Network (PTCN) here, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) announced that these nominees include the local government of Buruanga, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth), the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) and the local government of Ibajay.

Buruanga, Philhealth and the DRSTMH had been Red Orchid awardees last year and are nominated again for the second time, while this is Ibajay‘s first time of being nominated. The first three nominees, in fact, were Aklan's Red Orchid

awardees in 2014 and aims to get the same award this year.

Ibajay, a municipality in the western side of Aklan, is now a smoke-free municipality, by virtue of an ordinance passed by the municipality.

Being smoke-free is the prime requirement/ criteria for a government agency, institution or local government unit to be a Red Orchid awardee.

According to Dr. Cornelio Cuachon, Provincial Health Officer I, national validation for these nominees in Aklan is scheduled either in August or September while awarding will be in November this year.

Meanwhile, PTCN coordinator Nuella Zaldivar called on Aklan municipalities, local government units and government hospitals and agencies to start making their respective areas smoke-free in order to qualify for the Red Orchid Award. ―Let us protect everyone by being smoke-free‖, Zaldivar said.

Presently, some municipalities in Aklan are already preparing to be smoke-free.

According to the DOH and the PHO, Aklan envisions to be smoke-free by 2020. (JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

DTI hands in P446K facility for Cabilao 'bayong' project Rey Anthony H. Chiu CABILAO ISLAND, Loon, June 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under its Shared Service Facility (SSF) funds handed in some P446,885.75 worth of equipment to improve the romblon mat weavers of Cabilao and their craftsmanship in weaving for more viable market.

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he facility is housed at the Cabilao Romblon Weavers' Network (CROWN) Products Display Center in Pantudlan near the Baluarte and is top-billed by a furnace type batch active dryer, a wood fired industrial brick stove and a 50 kg tank gas stove all for shortening the drying time for the stripped romblon (screw pine palm) leaves.

The facility, with CROWN as the cooperator can be used by member weavers who can also avail of dyeing equipment like cooking vats, basic scales, precision balance scale, assorted dyeing receptacles, beakers, steel tongs and thermometers.

DTI-7 regional director Aster Caberte said she has come back to finally respond to the clamor of the weavers to make their product better and more competitive in the opening

ASEAN markets.

This, she said is where everyone can enjoy in the development, Caberte announced, meaning the government's agenda for inclusive growth.

The SSF in Cabilao is in line with DTI's ‗Big Push‘ that aims to make microenterprises efficient and help the government achieve the country's development plans and ease poverty thus attain the elusive inclusive growth, Caberte added.

Already impressed by the romblon mat-based woven bags (bayong) which sells mostly to tourists in the dive island of Cabilao, Caberte noted that with a little product development, Cabilao bayong is a fruit ready for the taking.

She noted that the SSF still needs to be complemented by some more equipment for a far

more efficient production.

"There is a huge market for our product out there," Caberte said as she engages them to make the SSF work like it is not just livelihood, but business as well.

Meanwhile, Congressman Rene Relampagos, who along with governor Edgar Chatto's representative Isabelito Tongco and Loon local officials, hinted their support to the facility, with the solon even hinting additional fund support to prop up CROWN's capital.

This is also the next aim of CROWN president Leonila Mulato, who despite her overflowing appreciation for the SSF, expressed desire to be helped in financing aid to make the Cabilao bayong even more relevant to the economic struggle of the people in the island. (mbcn/rahc/PIA7-/Bohol)

Tagbilaran City celebrates 49th charter day Elvira C. Bongosia TAGBILARAN CITY (PIA) -- Tagbilaran City celebrated its 49th Charter Day on July 1, which will also be in preparation for its Golden Year Charter Day celebration in 2016. By virtue of Republic Act 8267, July 1 is a non-working special public holiday for the city of Tagbilaran.

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ity Mayor John Geesnell ‗Baba‘ Yap delivered the much awaited ―State of the City Address‖ (SOCA), a comprehensive report of all his accomplishments at the Bohol Cultural Center.

It was his second SOCA amid accomplishments topped by City Hall‘s high collection of taxes and the impressive massive improvement of city roads.

In tomorrow‘s event, the city government will be giving awards to outstanding Tagbilaranons who have contributed to the

growth and progress of the city.

Awarded were the outstanding city hall officials and personnel who, per evaluation of their performances, have excelled in terms of efficiency and dedication.

The 49th Charter Day celebration started last Saturday with the holding of a Job Fair at Galleria Luisa where 8 overseas and 18 local companies recruited city residents to various jobs here and abroad.

On June 29, the Visayas Health of USAID,

IMAP, PAMET and the City Health Office conducted the first ever Family Health Day at the ICM Activity Center wherein free medical services such as blood typing, pre-natal, and ultrasound tests were given to pregnant women in the city.

There was also a Buntis Congress, Father's interactive games, Adolescent Youth Health Development Program and the First Gandang Buntis beauty pageant in Bohol. (mbcn/ecb/ PIA7-Bohol)

Bohol irrigation group among country's best Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, June 30 (PIA) -- A Boholano irrigation association (IA) cooperative came out as one of the country's three most outstanding IAs in the National Irrigation System category.

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t the recently concluded three-day National Irrigation Authority (NIA) 52nd Anniversary Celebration June 22-24, San D Mil Irrigators' Association Inc. came out strong again following a less -than-stellar performance in 2013-2014 calendar year.

San D Mil IA of Malinao Irrigation System in Pilar service area is now again recognized as among the best, an honor it held in the last three consecutive years.

"This is the third consecutive year that San D Mil received the award despite dropping a spot after finishing first runner up last CY 2013 and 2014," according to NIA Regional Director Mario H. Sande.

The association headed by Tereso Cruda

proved that such distinction doesn't need a vast service area.

"It is a huge distinction for us, a small irrigation association like San D Mil because we proved it is not about the size of the catchment area," confessed Sande.

Bohol winning IA toppled down other irrigation association giants like Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS) and NIA Region 12 nominees, according to NIA 7 sources.

With a service area of 124.4 hectares and a 117 registered members, this association is one of the smallest in terms of area in this category, the NIA source pointed out.

"But, we posted a high and stable collection

efficiency and with a well-disciplined operation and maintenance system, we made it as one of the country's best," NIA shared during the Associ ati on of Un it ed Devel op men t information Officers (AUDIO) Meeting, Thursday at the Reyna's Garden and haven in Tagbilaran City.

Also making it to national recognition are Ligaya IA of Magat River Irrigation System (MARIIS) and Lower Tiparak Tambulig IA of Region 9.

For the honor, Bohol's San D Mil receives P30,000 cash award and a plaque of recognition as the 2nd Most Outstanding IA. (mbcn/rahc/PIA7-Bohol/with reports fromTony Alonzo-NIA/Bohol)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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NegOr guv signs EO to intensify efforts vs. lawlessness Roi Anthoni B. Lomotan NEGROS ORIENTAL, July 1 (PIA) – Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo today signed an Executive Order (E.O) directing the provincial police to intensify its efforts to eliminate all forms of lawlessness and illegal activities in the province.

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I hereby direct the Philippine National Police (PNP), led by the current administration of P/SSupt. Dionardo Carlos, and other law enforcement agencies, to further intensify and its campaign and efforts with the end in view of totally suppressing and eliminating illegal gambling, illegal quarrying, illegal drugs and all other forms of criminality in the province,‖ Gov. Degamo said.

The governor signed the E.O. 15-10 in the presence of the local media and with Supt.

Dionard Carlos of PNP-Negros Oriental.

The E.O. was executed in response to the need to continue the peace and order efforts started by P/SSupt. Mariano Natu-el during his

term as former police director of the provincial police which led to the decline of crime rate in Negros Oriental.

Gov. Degamo puts his trust and confidence to Supt. Carlos, the new officer in charge of the provincial police office and believes the latter can perform this new directive from the provincial government. ―I believe in his courage, integrity and loyalty to the people of Negros,‖ Gov. Degamo added.

In response, Supt. Carlos assured the governor that he will do his best to lead the police force in Negros Oriental to fulfill this new directive. ―I will make some adjustment on the

deployment of personnel particularly focusing on illegal drugs, illegal gambling and implementation of special laws,‖ Supt. Carlos noted.

For now, the provincial police will continue to enhance its intelligence network, Gov. Degamo said.

Meanwhile, the governor sent a strong warning against those who plan to use his name to cover or as an excuse to get away with their wrongdoings. ―No relative or brother can use my name.

The police are determined to apprehend all of you. My strong warning to you is the police will go after your,‖ Gov. Degamo concluded. (mbcn/ ral/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

Shark and ray sanctuary to be declared in Cebu Ferliza C. Contratista CEBU CITY (PIA)— The creation of the country’s first shark and ray sanctuary is in the offing in Cebu.

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ince Cinches, Oceans Campaigner, Greenpeace Philippines said that government and local leaders together with other environment stakeholders, gathered on July 3 and declared the creation of the first ever shark and ray sanctuary.

The event is held a few days before the global celebration of shark week.

The Cebu Anti-Illegal Fishing Task Force

met July 1 with conservationists and the tourism sector to develop a stronger implementation addressing the enforcement gaps in carrying out last year‘s provincial ordinance. ―Sharks are extremely valuable in Philippine ecology, tourism and economy,‖ Cinches said.

The Philippines is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) to

ensure that international trade on species of wildlife flora and fauna does not threaten their survival. Cebu is the only province in the country that has a legislation to protect all species of shark and ray from catching and trading.

The province hosted the first Shark Summit in the Philippines last year. (rmn/fcc/PIA7-Cebu)

DOLE-7 rescues three child laborers from two sub-contractors of SM Seaside Juju M. Empuerto CEBU CITY, June 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-7) rescued three child laborers employed at Pamcore Steel Corporation and Top Glass and Aluminum Construction recently.

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OLE-7 Labor Communication Officer Luchel Taniza said that Pamcore Steel Corporation and Top Glass and Aluminum Construction are the two of the 42 subcontractors doing operations at the SM Seaside Project at the South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City.

According to DOLE 7 OIC regional director Exequiel Sarcauga that in the joint assessment conducted by the DOLE‘s Labor Laws Compliance Officers (LLCOs), the three child laborers were all 17 years old and found working at the site. ―Two of them were employed by Pamcore Steel Corporation. The other one was assigned as a checker/spotter by Top Glass and Aluminum Construction,‖ Sarcauga added.

Sarcauga called for a mandatory conference right after the issuance of the work stoppage which likewise implicated Monolith Construction and Development Corporation, the project‘s general contractor. ―The law clearly prohibits the employment of children especially in the industries considered hazardous like one in the construction,‖ said Sarcauga, adding that the DOLE does not tolerate such a misdemeanor and will make sure that erring establishments will be made accountable.

Upon the directive of Director Sarcauga, the DOLE facilitated the whole child labor rescue operation through the Regional Child Labor

Protection and Elimination Program (CLPEP) chief Rebecca Densing, focal and Supervising Labor and Employment Officer Efren Vito with the assigned LLCOs, Engr Rustico Levi Custorio and Engr Kenneth James Burbos.

On June 19, Densing said two of the three child laborers were taken to their respective boarding houses in Tabada, Mambaling. ―On the same day, around 8:00 P.M, we took the first one to the New Cebu South Bus Terminal where he was turned-over and personally received by the driver of the Ceres Bus who will take him to Negros Occidental,‖ Densing added.

The next day, the other minor was taken by the same DOLE personnel to Pier One Terminal Building and turned-over to the captain of Ocean Jet, the fast craft to ferry the minor to Ormoc City.

Prior to the send-off, Sarcauga coordinated with Director Elias Cayanong of DOLE-8 and Director Ponciano Ligutom of DOLE-6 for the safe transport of the minors. ―We asked for the assistance of our counterparts in Regions 8 and 6 where the two rescued child laborers came from. We requested them to help facilitate the children‘s safe return to their hometown,‖ said Sarcauga.

As for the minor who hailed from Balangiga, Eastern Samar, the office requested DOLE-8 to fetch him in Ormoc City and arrange his safe return

to his place, Sarcauga told the media.

"We also requested DOLE-6 to fetch the other minor who travelled with an adult and arranged for his transport back to his family in Matacay, Camingawan, Kabangkalan City, Negros Occidental," Sarcauga said.

The third minor who was employed by Top Glass and Aluminum Construction is now with his relatives in Barangay Inayawan, Cebu City.

Sarcauga disclosed that concerned subcontractors shouldered for the transportation expenses of the children saying further that Pamcore Steel Corporation is likewise accountable for paying for the back wages to the minors they employed.

The work stoppage issued to both subcontractors last June 18 was the 15th released and served by DOLE-7 since January 2015. ―We issued a conditional lifting of the stoppage order on June 22 after the removal of the child laborers from the project site. We are giving them until June 29, 2015 to rectify the remaining deficiencies,‖ Sarcauga said.

Top Glass and Aluminum Construction and Pamcore Steel Corporation are yet to submit their Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) license and provide for the social protection benefits (SSS, Philhealth, and Pag-ibig) of the children. (mbcn/ jsme/PIA7-Cebu/ with reports from DOLE7)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Village lady chief joins 135 ALS passers SAMUEL D. CANDIDO BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, June 25 (PIA) - A female barangay captain of barangay Pinanag-an this city grabbed one slot for the 135 other passers in this year’s Alternative Learning Program of the Department of Education (DepEd).

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rs. Nelly D. Andia, herself a mother, did not let go of her desire to continue learning even through the informal way.

In her welcome address during the 3rd ALS Graduation at the Luis Capito Cultural Stage, the ―kapitana‖ urged other school drop-outs, to enrol in the special class with a special schedule, just catering to the available time and place of the learners.

She also expressed hope that someday, after completing her studies, she will find a

blue-collared job at least, to earn her and her children a better income. ―Let us not loss hope, let us continue dreaming,‖ was heard of Kapitana Nelly as she continued saying her piece with excitement.

City Schools Superintendent Judith Boco confirmed the graduation of the candidates.

In her message, she emphasized the importance of education, which she said is boundless and everybody‘s right.

― It‘s not just for a few, not just for a few chosen few,‖ she stressed.

For her part, city Mayor Fe Abunda congratulated the graduates, their parents, husbands and wives for the men graduates, as well as the DepEd personnel behind them.

Abunda thanked likewise the City DepEd Division for supporting one of her priority thrusts, education, even ALS which adopts an alternative mode of learning. (PIA -08)

Bamboo eyed to address timber woes in EV TACLOBAN CITY, Leeyte, June 30 (PIA) – Bamboos for house construction could possibly answer the lack of timber materials for housing projects in Samar and Leyte.

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hus said Department of Science and Technology 8 (DOST-8) Director, Edgardo M. Esperancilla.

Leyte Governor Dominic Petilla was appreciative of the DOST-FPRDI project and in his inspirational message he shared his hope to address the problem on the limited construction materials for his constituents.

There was his mention of some 980-thousand housing backlogs in Leyte but after viewing the Bamboo House Model, he realized that the problem on lumber inadequacy could be answered by Bamboo trees, which according to him abound in Northwest Leyte and some parts of Eastern

Samar.

The DIY Bamboo House constitutes of bamboo panels connected to each other.

It can be assembled and disassembled in 3-4 days by 4-medium built workers.

With a 24 sq.m floor area of a living room, kitchen, bedroom, toilet and bath with sink, the Bamboo house is decently fitting a couple with two to three kids.

With the cost of P150,000.00 it has a ready electricity and water supply-ready, cost effective and environment friendly.

Other DYI variants follow: without toilet and bath-P130,000; without toilet and finishing P120,000; Shell only with

utilities-P105,000.00; Shell only without utilities-P90,000; Shell only without concrete slab-P75,000.00.

Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla however, suggested that the Bamboo house be elevated a few feet higher from the ground, not only that it could allay flooding but it can also prevent the house roofing from strong winds, as the space underneath could be a good air passage, instead of slamming the roof of its strength.

Asked if the Bamboo roof panels would not leak, Esperancilla answered negatively, saying the Bamboos were cleaned inside of their obstructions so that, rain water would flow down straight.(PIA-8)

CRS turns over houses to ES 'Yolanda' survivors SAMUEL D. CANDIDO BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, June 25 (PIA) - The Catholic Relief Services (CRS) recently turned-over about 7,000 disaster-resilient homes to the six coverd municipalities namely, Balangkayan, Lawaan, Giporlos, Quinapondan and Salcedo, this province.

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he ceremonial awarding of Certificate of Donation to the shelter beneficiaries, which was attended by Mr. Joe Curry, a Country Representative of CRS-Phiippines, was held on June 22, 2015 at the Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) Gym, Salcedo, E. Samar.

In his message, Mr. Curry said that CRS aims to help people survive with dignity, get back on their feet, rebuild their homes and lives, and strengthen their long term stability and resilience.

CRS revealed that based on the data of their Shelter Team from Nov. 8, 2013 to June 2015, they have built already more or less 7,000 disaster-resilient homes with the financial partners of Caritas Norway, Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace and Shelter Box. Under their livelihood program, the CRS has served more or less 4,300 partner beneficiaries through livelihood training, aquaculture, crops, livestock and nursery

projects.

CRS is the international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States of America (USA) and provides assistance in nearly 100 countries based on need, regardless of race, nationality, or creed.

It has been supporting Filipino communities in need since 1945. Today, CRS focuses on disaster preparedness and recovery, agro-enterprises and peace building. (aen/sdc/PIA8-E. Samar)

EASTERN VISAYAS

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DA earmarks P282M farm to market road concreting ERNA S. GORNE MAASIN CIY, Southern Leyte, June 30 (PIA) - Farm products along Lilo-an -San Ricardo LGUs will soon be easily transported once the long-awaited circumferential road in the whole Pana-on Island shall be completely connected with the windfull P282 M farm to market road project funds earmarked by the Department of Agriculture (DA).

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A8 Regional Executive Director Leo Caneda confirmed this during the Agri Fair and Garden Show June 26. Caneda said that as an offshoot of their recent Mancom meeting with DA Sec Proceso Alcala Southern Leyte will be recipient of the biggest chunk of Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP) even throughout the country.

Provincial Governor Roger Mercado earlier announced the good tidings that funds for the Lilo-an – San Ricardo road concreting to the tune of P282M will eventually complete the circumferential road along the Panaon Island.

Panaon island consist of the municipalities of Lilo-an, San Francisco, Pintuyan and San Ricardo, being the farthest town upon entering the island. However, with the completion of the concreting of the said cimrfumferential road, San Ricardo shall be reached sooner as they will be connected to Lilo-an town, it was learned.

Gov. Mercado noted that the project will attract more transport services to ply in their location in order to get their agricultural products due to the good condition of the roads soon.

That means more food for the people not only in the province but for the whole

nation as a whole, he added.

Mercado further announced that another farm to market road project is in the offing which is the concreting of St. Bernard – Hinunangan road in the amount of P170M. RD Caneda also confirmed that the mentioned multi-million road concreting project proposal was also considered in their earlier meeting with Sec. Alcala.

Gov. Mercado lauded the residents of said towns, saying that their resolutions seeking the need for accessibility for their farm products reaching his office now bears fruitful results. (esg/PIA8 SoLeye)

NHA fast tracks permanent housing units in Region 8 CONSUELO B. ALARCON TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 25(PIA) – To address the shelter issues amid the demand among Yolanda survivors for more efficient interventions from the government, the National Housing Authority (NHA) is working hard to complete the implementation of the Yolanda Permanent Housing Program in the region.

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uring the Regional Development Council (RDC) meeting held Wednesday at Catbalogan City, NHA regional manager Rizalde Mediavillo reported that while much progress in the construction has been made in various housing sites, others are still ongoing or in the process of bidding proposals.

According to him, a total of 32, 120

permanent housing units are in various stages of development including those which are bid-out for award and are ongoing.

NHA was tasked to lead the government‘s goal to provide permanent housing units to 56, 140 families who have lost homes in Eastern Visayas due to typhoon Yolanda.

Said families were considered to be in ―high risk zones‖ in 43 cities and municipalities in the region.

Under the Yolanda Permanent Housing Program of the national government, a total of 205, 128 is the housing needs of displaced families in regions 4B, 5, 6, 7 and 8 including Dinagat Islands. (ajc/cba/PIA-8)

EVisayas kicks off observance of National Disaster Consciousness Month TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, July 1 (PIA) – The region's month-long celebration of the National Disaster Consciousness Month this July kicked off with a motorcade followed by a short program at Robinson’s Activity Area today with the Office of Civil Defense or the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) leading the activity.

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he activity, anchored on the theme ―Pamilya at Pamayanang Handa Katuwang sa Pag-unlad‖ was participated in by various national government agencies, local government units (LGUs), rescue volunteers, international non -government organizations, media and other stakeholders.

OCD-8 OIC regional director Rey Gozon, chairman of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) emphasized the essence of the month-long observance which is to promote public awareness on natural hazards and how to go about mitigating its adverse effects.

He likewise made emphasis on the involvement of everyone-working together in pursuing initiatives towards the vision of a

prepared population and a safe nation. ―We cannot stop natural disasters but we can arm ourselves with knowledge so that no life will be lost if there was enough disaster preparedness‖, Gozon said.

On the other hand, Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez, who was the guest speaker, expressed support to this endeavor. ―The city government stands committed to support this endeavor whether it be physical movement, mental preparedness but most of all we fight that we can work together and we can formulate a plan that is effective and can directly respond and at the same time very flexible and can adopt to the situation that immediately occur,‖ Romualdez said.

As he shared some of his memories and

lessons during Yolanda, he said it is just proper to commemorate November 8 not to embrace bitterness or anger for what had happened but to remember the real dangers and prepare the next generations. ―If we can celebrate Leyte Landing and we can commemorate that, I‘m sure we can do November 8, one of the biggest storms that ever hit our country and so many people died and we should prepare the next generations for that,‖ Romualdez said.

On the same occasion, the mayor also lauded a number of agencies who led in the retrieval of dead bodies after Yolanda struck the city such as the Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Army, the Philippine Air Force, Philippine National Police, rescue teams, volunteers, INGOs, among others. (ajc/cba/PIA-8)

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

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

Ms. Minerva BC Newman Regional Director, PIA 7

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

Ms. Alicia E. Nicart Regional Director, PIA8

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