One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 5 Issue 45

Vol 5

Issue 45

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Private-Public Partnership: Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Julie Cepe lauds the participation of Civil Society Organizations (CSO) in local governance at a Stakeholders Forum held to culminate the project 'Strengthening Social Accountability Mechanism in Local Governance in Antique', a partnership project of Antique Federation on Non-Government Organizations and European Union. The 4-year project started in 2012, covering nine towns namely San Remigio, Laua-an, Valderrama, Barbaza, Bugasong, Patnongon, Tibiao, Culasi and Hamtic. (PSM/ PIA6 Antique)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

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November 9 - 15, 2015

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

DPWH highlights APEC-related infra projects

By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Nov. 10 (PIA6) --- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-6 highlighted several infrastructure projects here which contributed to Iloilo City‘s successful hosting of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in September and October.

The Iloilo Convention Center (ICON), which served as the venue for the APEC ministerial and side meetings, is the only stand-alone convention center within the Iloilo Business Park in Iloilo City‘s Mandurriao district.

The P700-million worth edifice is part of the effort to ensure the development and promotion of tourism particularly in the city and province of Iloilo, in Region 6 and the other Visayas provinces.

The ICON aims to draw local and international guests for large-scale conventions and other important events and put the country on the business tourism map.

The Sen. Benigno Aquino (SBA), Jr. Avenue project, which spans 15.60 kilometers from Jct. General Luna Street, Iloilo City up to the Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan town, involved the widening of the concrete pavement in both directions to expand to an eight-lane carriageway from the original six lanes.

The project also included the provision of bicycle/walk lanes, a two-lane service road, sidewalks, and drainage system.

The Dungon Bridge project, along Sen. Benigno Aquino, Jr. Avenue, is a component of the improvement/widening of Iloilo-Jaro Diversion Road which is aimed to reduce traffic congestion.

This bridge project has provided a smooth access to the

new Iloilo International Airport and the rising Iloilo Business Park being developed by Megaworld.

The construction of Iloilo International Airport Service Road in Cabatuan and Sta. Barbara here provided unhampered flow of vehicles going in and out of the airport, thereby ensuring smooth access to the New Iloilo International Airport.

Meanwhile, the ongoing Muelle Loney Bridge project, also known as Drilon Bridge located along Iloilo City-Lapuz Road over Iloilo River, will provide additional access to the new Iloilo Ferry Terminal, making it more accessible to its users.

The project will also help decongest traffic along the North Marginal Wharf Road, the only access road to the ferry terminal at present. (JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

After the APEC meetings, the ICON will serve as venue for other big conventions and major events until the end of this year, part of Iloilo’s sustained drive to boost the local tourism sector. (PIA-6)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

DOLE opens JobStart in D‘gte City

A press conference was held November 10 at Radisson Blu Hotel with ( l-r) Philippine Ports Authority General Manager Juan C. Sta Ana, APEC Port Services Network (APSN) President Tim Meisner, and Secretary General Fei Weijun on Improving Port and Supply Chain Connectivity after the Council meeting and Workshop of APSN. (vvv/PIA Cebu)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

Leandria P. Pagunsan DUMAGUETE CITY, Nov. 6 (PIA)—JobStart Philippines in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Asian Development Bank (ADB), Government of Canada and the local government of Dumaguete City through the Public Employment Service Office PESO) launched recently JobStart Phils at the Manhattan Suites Inn, Dumaguete City.

JobStart Phils rolled out the selection criteria in choosing the regions with high unemployment and underemployment rates, presence of business establishments that provide potential employment for the youth, must have an institutionalized PESO that will make JobStart as a priority program, and commitment of Local Government Executives to support the program.

Director Dominique Rubia-Tutay of the Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) said that JobStart is for young people

who are 18-24 years old, at least high school graduate, no job experience or have no more than one year of experience and currently not employed or not enrolled in school or in any training.

Tutay further said JobStart aims to establish a modern full-cycle employment services at the Public Employment Service Office (PESO).

Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in Dumaguete City, Maria Socorro Mira said that at least 8 employers signified to sign the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with DOLE-BLE for 100 JobStarters in Dumaguete City.

Though, employment situation in the country is improving and to avoid job mismatch, Tutay said the jobStart program will help identify the right labor market and skills of jobseekers in their respective locality. (mbcn/lpp/PIA7/Negros Oriental)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez and wife, Councilor Cristina Romualdez led recently the unveiling of the Astrodome Memorial.

Tacloban City Astrodome housed the most number of evacuees in Tacloban when super typhoon Yolanda devastated the city and Eastern Visayas two years ago. (PIA-8)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

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Tacloban Mayor thanks nat‘l gov‘t for Yolanda help NEIL D. LOPIDO TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Nov. 12 (PIA) – Taclobanons and attendees responded with a resounding applause when Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez thanked the national government in his reconciliatory message during the commemorative program on the second year of Yolanda Memorial. ―In behalf of the city of Tacloban, we would like to thank the national leadership including our President, for all the help given to Tacloban,‖ Mayor Romualdez said.

Romualdez has been criticizing publicly the rehabilitation and recovery efforts of the national government in Tacloban for the past two years but said recently that it did not mean he was ungrateful for all the help that were poured in to Tacloban. ―Minsan po nakakapagsalita kami ng mga maaanghang na salita pero at no given time were we ungrateful for all the help that was given to us. Pasensya nalang po kung nakakapagsalita kami ng mga maaanghang dahil kami‘y tao lamang at kami po‘y labis na nasaktan dahil masakit talaga ang nangyari sa amin,‖ he said.

Meanwhile, in his homily, Bishop Filomeno Bactol said that ―concentrating so much on our pains can turn our hearts harder like stones, but suffering can be an opportunity not only because good can come from it but also because our pain can bring us closer to Him.‖ Romualdez, who led the ceremonial unveiling of the Astrodome Memorial, thanked everyone, called for unity, and reassured to continue to fight for a strong and resilient Taclobanons. ―Let this memorial be a symbol to all the leaders of the world, let us work hard for the future for the next generation and let‘s always remind ourselves that in times of desperation we have our duty not only to our people but to God, to always bring out the best in us and always love one another.‖ Other commemorative activities held during the second year anniversary of Yolanda include the unveiling of the Shipwreck Memorial in Anibong, commemorative walk, commemorative tablet unveiling at the DZR airport, Holy Mass and blessing of the graves of Yolanda victims at the Holy Cross memorial in Brgy. Basper and candlelight memorial. (aen/PIA-8)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

Yolanda victims assured of quality houses

By Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, Nov. 10 (PIA6) — The Iloilo Provincial Government assured that it has facilitated building and resettlement of quality houses for Yolanda victims in Iloilo.

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r. Raul Banias, provincial administrator made the assurance in a radio interview, as the province remembered the second anniversary of the onslaught of Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013.

Banias said that through the Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program, the province received about P26 billion for the building of some 42,000 houses.

The building and resettlement was easier in towns where the local government units had lots available or acquired right away.

―The delay was due to problems in land acquisition for resettlement,‖ Banias said, adding that there are lots of clearances needed for the acquisition of lots.e ―This is true for beneficiaries in the ‗no-build zone‘ that had to be relocated to a safer area,‖ he further said.

Banias said the housing project was not just for northern Iloilo but about 80 percent are in the fifth district hardest-hit by Yolanda.

The towns of Dumangas, Banate, Passi, San Enrique and Calinog also benefitted.

He revealed that the provincial government has received housing assistance

from non-government organizations, civil society groups and foreign governments, like the British Red Cross, which turned over 500 houses in Ajuy, Balasan, and San Dionisio.

The Ayala Foundation has also turned over permanent typhoon-resilient houses in Estancia, while SM Cares turned over the same in the town of Concepcion.

Meanwhile, the National Housing Authority said it has constructed m or e or le s s 5 ,00 0 h ous e s in identified Yolanda-hit areas in Iloilo. (JCM/ESS/ PIA-Iloilo)

PEMO: State of wildlife in Neg.Occ. is ‗in-between‘

By Easter Anne D. Doza NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Nov. 10 (PIA6) - - Provincial Environment Management Officer lawyer Wilfred Ramon Peñalosa said the state of the wildlife in the province is ―in-between‖.

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eñalosa said this in an interview after the opening of the 11th Provincial Wildlife Month Photo Exhibit at the 3rd Floor of the Robinsons Place Bacolod which will run until November 15. ―There are parts that the biodiversity is increasing while there are certain parts that it is decreasing rapidly especially at the North Negros Natural Park where most of the photos used in the exhibit were taken,‖ Peñalosa said.

In the 80,000-hectare NNNP, according to Peñalosa, there are areas that are very strong in protecting the forest cover while, he admits there are also areas that weak in protection.

―The state now is 'in-between' and so we need to balance the trend if not increase biodiversity,‖ Peñalosa added.

According to Peñalosa, the 11th Wildlife Month celebration is trying to involved as many stakeholders as possible to save what is endangered and protect what we have by getting as many people involved.

The Photo Exhibit showcased works of amateur to professional photographers, locals to foreigners as well as volunteers of Non-Government Organizations, bank managers and pilots. ―We placed the photo exhibit inside the mall because people go to the mall.

The photo exhibit is here because we

want to show people that anybody who has the eye and the heart for nature can show and tell a story on what it is all about,‖ Peñalosa added.

The celebration‘s theme is ―Preventing Extinction through Wildlife Education and Awareness‖. ―I call on the Negrenses to be involved especially in protecting the environment.

Practical things can be done to contribute to the change, small little things for the environment can have multiplier effect and the impact will be great,‖ Peñalosa added. *(JCM/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

Social accountability boosts CSOs participation in local governance

By Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique, Nov. 9 (PIA6) - - The social accountability mechanism crafted by the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in partnership with Antique Federation on Non-government Organizations (AFON) and European Union has gained positive results toward CSOs participation in Local Governance.

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n a forum attended by stakeholders, Marilou Llavan, Chair of the Board of AFON at the same time Program Director of the Antique Human Development Program said the project ‗Strengthening Social Accountability Mechanisms in Local Governance‘ has enhanced meaningful participation of CSOs in the undertakings of the local government.

The three-year project that commenced in 2012 has given AFON and its member NGOs, Civil Society groups and people‘s organizations cap abilit y building activities and the opportunity to take

part in the affairs of the LGUs as provided for under the Local Government Code.

The nine towns involved in this project are San Remigio, Laua-an, Valderrama, Barb aza, Bu gason g, Patnongon, Tibiao, Culasi and Hamtic.

In a report, CSO‘s accreditation to local special bodies in all towns have increased from 178 in 2012 to 230 CSOs in 2015. CSO‘s participation to local development councils and local special bodies is also a strategy to present the needs of the grassroots/marginalized sectors.

Particularly mentioned was the active involvement of CSOs in the formulation of

Local Poverty Reduction Action Plan and Bottoms Up Budgeting or BUB in their respective municipalities.

Likewise, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Julie Cepe lauded the empowerment made by the project to people‘s organizations in lobbying for their needs to be included in the local development and investment programs.

AFON member NGOs involved in this project are Antique Development Foundation, Antique Human Development Program, Antique Federation of Cooperatives, Hantique Igkabuhi Center-Hublag Evelio and PROCESS Foundation. (JCM/PSM/PIA6Antique)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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PHL set for AEC consumer protection implementation

By Sheila Q. Patoza KALIBO, AKLAN, Nov. 8 (PIA6) – The Philippines is ready to protect its consumers towards a single market by the end of 2015.

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n a press conference dubbed ―DTI meets the media on Consumerism‖ held recently at Hernani‘s Mix ‗n Match, Kalibo, Aklan, Ronald Calderon, Trade Industry Development Specialist of Consumer Protection Advocacy Bureau, said that Philippines is ready for the full implementation of consumer protection in ASEAN Economic Community by end of 2015. ―To be ready for the full implementation of consumer protection in the integrated market, there are three things that are need to be doneby the ASEANMember States (AMS),‖ Calderon said.

To be ready for AEC 2015 in consumer protection, the AMS should strengthen the

consumer protection in ASEAN through establishment of the ASEAN Committee on Consumer Protection (ACCP) Recently, an ACCP meeting was held in Jakarta, Indonesia, which the Philippines had attended.

Calderon also said that AMS should establish network of consumer protection agencies to facilitate information sharing and exchange.

In the Philippines, the Department of Trade and Industry is the Focal Agency and the country has been doing it since 2011.

The third requirement Calderon stated was the ACCP should organize regional training courses for consumer protection for

officials and leaders in preparation for the integrated ASEAN market. ―Our country participates in the capability building yearly and actually just last year I attended the training in Vietnam,‖ Calderon added.

The Philippines, according to Calderon, had already met the aforesaid three requirements making the country ready for implementation. ―Our country has accomplished the three objectives already, and having so, I can say that we are ready in the AEC in the aspect of consumer protection by the end of 2015,‖ Calderon said. (JSC/SQP-PIA6 Aklan)

Training for 75 police investigators on Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Nov. 11 (PIA6) – Police officers are currently undergoing an intensive training to enhance their capability and skills on investigation.

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apiz Police Provincial Director Robert Rodriguez said that a total of 75 police officers in Capiz are taking the 32-day Criminal Investigation Course to improve their investigation capabilities.

The police officers come from the different municipal and city police stations including those from the Capiz Police Provincial Office here.

Rodriguez said that one of the priorities of the Philippine National Police is to improve the investigative skills and capabilities of the police officers in order to attain the highest degree of professionalism among all PNP investigators.

In a message of PNP Regional director Bernardo Diaz read by Regional Investigation & Detection Management

Division Assistant Chief Jomil John Trio during the recent opening ceremony here, he stressed the importance of knowledge and skills in doing investigation report.

The criminal investigation course is being handled by the personnel from the PNP Regional Office 6 and Capiz PPO. (JCM/CPPO/ JBG-PIA6)

Guimaras tourism industry thriving

By Lilibeth A. French ILOILO CITY, Nov. 12 (PIA6) - - The tourism industry of the island province of Guimaras has been flourishing for the past three years.

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n his State of the Province Address (SOPA), Governor Samuel Gumarin reported that tourist arrivals in the province increased by 15.51 percent from 63, 921 in 2013 to 73, 833 in 2014 generating an income of P1.2 billion which was spread among various tourism stakeholders.

Just this year, from April 10 to May 22, the province‘s Manggahan Festival and the Manggahan sa Kabanwahanan recorded a total of 55, 029 visitors‘ arrival bringing in tourism receipts amounting to P27.5 million.

Correspondingly, the total gross sales of the Manggahan Agri-Trade and Tourism Fair rose from P7.3 million in 2014 against P10.7 million this year. In 2012, the fair‘s recorded gross sales was P6.9 million and in 2013 some P4.7 million.

Gumarin said the province remains focused on improving its tourism industry, one of its major economic drivers, and in its bid to become the agri-tourism capital of Western Visayas.

Some of the recent initiatives undertaken by the provincial government to boost the industry include bringing its biggest festival, Manggahan Festival, to the five

municipalities of the province starting last year.

In the third quarter of this year, seven hotels in the island were accredited by the Department of Tourism.

Roads leading to the recognized tourism sites in the province were also improved. ―And with the equally strong leadership of Congressman JC Rahman Nava, through the Department of Public Works and Highways, most of our national roads are now concretely paved and will be 100% functional by 2016,‖ said Gumarin.

Activities were also implemented to help improve the competitiveness and sustainability of Guimaras economy through the Guimaras Investment Code, its Implementing Rules and Regulations, technical assistance and capacity enhancement, and scaled up market linkages which resulted to more than 600% increase from its 2013 recorded investments.

The primary investors were the Trans Asia Renewable Energy Corporation with their wind farm in San Lorenzo and the gasoline stations in the five municipalities.

There were also 2,182 registered businesses including 329 new enterprises.

Gumarin said the province also has helped local entrepreneurs to participate in 13 trade fairs nationwide to showcase their locally made products which generated total gross sales of P2.8 million.

Recognizing its strong commitment to a holistic eceonomic development, the Department of Labor and Employment has declared the province as a Labor Law Compliant Tourist Destination. Certificates of Compliance on Labor Standards and Occupational Safety and Health Services were also awarded to its five municipalities.

The Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) also cited two projects of Guimaras during its recent 16th National Convention in Davao City. Awarded 1st runners-up were the Bike Paradise of the Philippines Project for Best Tourism Event (Adventure Category) and Barangay San Roque Community-Based Rural Tourism (CBRT) Suba Malawig Eco-Tour project for the Community-Based Responsible Tourism-Enterprise Category. (JCM/LAF/ PIA6-Iloilo)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Cebu Capitol commemorates Yolanda anniversary Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, Nov. 9 (PIA) – The province of Cebu did well in its rehabilitation efforts after being wrecked by typhoon Yolanda two years ago.

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ebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale in her opening remarks during the Yolanda Commemoration at the Provincial Capitol said Cebu had succeeded after being wrecked by the typhoon. ―Cebu did very well in coping,‖ Magpale said.

When asked whether it is right to commemorate a catastrophe, Magpale answered "Yes we will commemorate a catastrophe because from there we knew strength, we gained friends and we learned from our mistakes.‖ Ten national government agencies including the Cebu Province took turns reporting accomplishments and issues encountered in the rehabilitation of the 16 affected local government units. These include Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI),

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), National Housing Authority (NHA), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Health (DOH), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the National Economic Development Administration (NEDA).

The Mayors who attended were Bogo City Mayor Celestino Martinez Jr., Borbon Mayor Bernard Sepulveda, Tabogon Mayor Zigfred Duterte, Madridejos Mayor Salvador de la Fuente and Sogod Mayor Lissa Marie Monyeen Durano.

Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III in the closing remarks defended the allocation of over P24 million disaster risk reduction contingency fund which has been criticized by opponents.

―That amount is barely P500,000 if divided for the 51 municipalities and the component cities, it will include plans and trainings which is very vital for future use,‖ Davide said.

The province spent P269 million in 2014 and P148 million for 2016 solely for Yolanda related spending.

Most of those released were financial assistance to affected barangays in the 16 LGU‘s and for agriculture, livelihood, health and other social services. The Mayors and other officials were also able to ask and inquire directly to the national agencies involved. The Yolanda Commemoration with its theme ―Convergence: Key to Shared Accountability and Commitment‖ was organized by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office led by Baltazar Tribunalo. (mbcn/fcc/PIA7-Cebu)

Activist calls for accountability on foreshore violations Rey Anthony H. Chiu BOHOL, Nov. 6 (PIA) – Environmental activists and members of the Bohol Nature Conservation Society (BONACONSO) calls for accountability and responsibility from concerned agencies on the issues of environmental violations from resort establishments along the foreshores of Tagbilaran Channel. n a r e c e n t K a p a i h a n s a exact responsibility from the environmental reclaimed about .5 hectares already, according PIA, environmental activist Pat abuse for the widening reclamation that would to Ruiz.

Ruiz pointed out that the gross soon close the public access to recreational She also named Bohol Quality violations along the foreshores of Tagbilaran and livelihood areas in shorelines.

Corporation that applied for 2.327 hectares Channel should have been acted long In 2012 BONACONSO, along with the but actually dumped wider with 5.6 hectares of ago.

Ruiz alleged that the environment DENR and some interest environment groups, reclaimed land. department in Bohol is shuffling its feet. non-government organizations and some This year, the group that came to the Ruiz said, "We have already sent our private citizens conducted a delineation Kapihan urged government to help them do letter of opposition to the ongoing reclamation survey and found that about 22.02% of the another survey, considering that they have projects by establishments in Tagbilaran entire foreshore areas have been reclaimed noticed more blatant violations, which can be years back." that amounted to 8.369 hectares, Ruiz pointed considered bad precedent.

Its opposition however, did not merit out. ―Where are the environment perspectives any response from the mandated The subject reclamations then were all of our leaders, why have they not acted on agency.

Ruiz along with another city applied for permits but the nature conservation these [violations], Ruiz asked and pleaded for resident Zen Darunday pointed out that every society members cited gross violations in the local government units to look at the delayed action means more and more actual reclamation from the applied area. environment vis a vis development so as not to violations.

When the Alturas Group of Companies deprive the next generations to come. (mbcn/ B O N A C O N S O a l s o w a n t s t o applied for .398 hectares then, it has now rahc/PIA7-Bohol)

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Valencia LGU organizes 2-day youth camp for CICL Roi Anthoni B. Lomotan VALENCIA, Negros Oriental, Nov. 9 (PIA) – About 50 children/participants from barangays Caidiocan, Malaunay, West Balabag, Jawa, Palinpinon, Malabo, Pulang Bato, Balayagmanok, Puhagan, Dobdob, Balili, Bongbong and Sagbang of Valencia town attended the two-day youth camp for Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) organized by the municipal government of Valencia.

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he event dubbed ―Apil Pod Mi: I believe I can,‖ was held on November 7 and 8 at the Valencia Central School but the opening ceremony was conducted at the town‘s rural health unit.

According to Valencia town Councilor Elsie Dagoy, the purpose of the event is help these kids improve their self-esteem and to make them feel that they are not neglected and the municipal government also cares for them. ―Most of them have no parents, some live in parks and are always hungry,‖ she noted.

Dagoy who chairs the municipal government‘s committee on

children underscored that they were able to impart to these kids that they have a brighter future rather than being run after by police or getting chastised by their barangay captains. ―We hope that with this workshop, these kids will change,‖ she added.

Apart from CICL, some of the participants were also children with disabilities.

The two-day youth camp was facilitated by the Gaba-an Youth Lead (GYL), an organization that is expert on handling youth camps.

GYL head Dennis Caballero said their team will apply the self-worth ―Tatak Selfie‖

module in this youth camp to help kids boost their self-confidence.

Part of the module is spiritual formation of these kids. She then disclosed that another batch of CICL will undergo the same youth camp on December 7 and 8. ―This is just the beginning, maybe next year we will conduct a leadership training workshop for these kids,‖ Dagoy revealed.

Aside from this, Dagoy also is open to the idea of interviewing these kids and ask them if they are interested to go to school. She shared that the municipal government has a scholarship program which these kids can avail. (mbcn/ral/PIA7-NegOr)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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Port and supply chain connectivity among APEC members discussed in Cebu Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, Nov. 10 (PIA) – Over 100 delegates from the Philippines and other APEC economies are in Cebu recently for the three day workshop initiated by APEC Port Services Network (APSN) which reports to the APEC Transportation Working Group.

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ebu hosts the 8th Asia Pacific practice sharing.

Economic Cooperation (APEC) Port Other than that Sta. Ana said the Workshop Services workshop on port and supply also provides an invaluable opportunity to chain. network and discuss port and supply chain The participants are seaport and supply connectivity with key governmental, industrial chain ministers of member economies including and academic officials form a number of APEC 50 decision makers from the Philippines. economies.

Philippine Port Authority (PPA) General Tim Meisner, Council President of APSN Manager Juan Sta. Ana said this year‘s workshop is said that a common discussion among all member an enhanced effort of APSN to explore the port economies is the establishment of green ports in and supply chain connectivity that would contrib- answer to the call of environment conservation. ute to APEC‘s priority of enhancing the regional Fei Weijun, of China and is APSN economic integration agenda.

Secretary General said other than green ports, He said it will also provide an excellent they are also discussing measures on port safety platform for Asia-Pacific port authorities, and security. maritime industries and relevant international Cebu Port Authority General Manager organizations for information exchange and best Edmund Tan said the scheduled Workshop allows

for multiple opportunities for attendees to learn more about the users perspective on how to improve port and supply chain connectivity. ―These would include users like shippers, shipping lines, freight forwarders, terminal operators, railway companies, trucking companies, inland waterway transport, feeder service operators and international organization for ports,‖ Tan said.

ASPN holds annual workshop in one of the ASPN member economies in order to present and discuss topics relevant to port and port related sectors.

In 2014 the ASPN Workshop was held in Seattle USA. Next year it will be in Indonesia. (mbcn/fcc/PIA7-Cebu)

Applicants to pre-register for Bohol jobs fair Rey Anthony H. Chiu BOHOL, Nov. 9 (PIA) — Employer agencies seeking to fill in vacant positions are coming to Bohol on November 27 for a Jobs' Fair at the Bohol Cultural Center (BCC) and intends to hire skilled workers related to fields of construction manning, engineering, medical fields, business process outsourcing and call center operations.

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he fair also seeks to fill vacant posts in hotel and restaurant operations a nd m an ag emen t , s a les a n d merchandizing, retailing, manufacturing and general administrative tasks and operations, according to Bohol Employment Placement Officer (BEPO) in charge, Maria Vilma Yorong.

BEPO, a satellite office of the Office of the Governor has been coordinating and promoting jobs especially that Bohol still has in its saddles a considerable unemployment and underemployment issues. The fair which opens from 8:00 to 4:00 PM Friday, November 27 at

the BCC, however, needs all the job applicants pre-registered.

Pre-registration allows for the fair to run smoothly as it operates on the assumption that all those coming for the jobs fair have already proper work documents and would be ready for immediate deployment, BEPO said.

Pre-registration sites are located at the GO-BEPO at the former DepEd Bohol Division Office at the CPG Sports Complex, at the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) PEU at CPG North Avenue near Cocoa Cola Plant and at the Public Employment Service

Office housed at the municipal halls of towns, where registration cards can be had, according to BEPO. At the pre registration, prospective workers need to bring comprehensive resume and biodata, 2 x 2 pictures, diploma, transcript of records, school form 138, TESDA certificates, training and employment certificates, NBI Clearance, Police Clearance, Barangay clearance and passports.

The November 27 jobs fair is sponsored

by GO-BEPO with the DOLE-POEA, DSWDSLP and BAPESOM, separate sources said. (mbcn/rahc/PIA7-Bohol)

BSP says old peso bills good until December 2015

BY JENNIFER C. TILOS NEGROS ORIENTAL, Nov. 8 (PIA) -- The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)-Dumaguete Branch has reiterated its call on the public that the old peso bills can only be used for buying and payments until December 31 this year.

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ith this, Dr. Gregorio Baccay III of BSP urged the public to exchange their old money called New Design Series (NDS) with the New Generation Currency (NGC).

Baccay said the old banknotes or NDS will no longer be accepted for monetary transactions starting January 1, 2016. ―But these old banknotes can still be swapped in commercial banks or here in BSP, with the NGC Series at full face, without charge,‖ said Baccay.

Thus, from January 1, 2016 until December 31, 2016, NDS banknotes can no longer be used in day-to-day transactions to pay for goods and services.

Starting January 1, 2017 the NDS will be fully demonetized or without monetary value.

The NGC have more and enhanced security features to protect the safety of the

public against counterfeiters.

The demonetization process of the old banknotes is in line with the provisions of Section 57 of Republic Act No. 7653, otherwise known as the New Central Bank Act, which authorizes the BSP to replace banknotes that are more than 5 years old.

The old banknotes have been in circulation for almost three decades.

Meanwhile, Energy Development Corporation (EDC) has presented the highlights of its 2014 sustainability performance as well as consulted the different stakeholder groups in Negros Oriental on what they want the company to disclose in its 2015 Performance Report.

According to EDC‘s corporate communication officer Frances Ariola, the stakeholder consultation and reporting are voluntary and in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) sustainability

reporting framework that EDC is using in its annual performance report. ―This integrates the company's financial performance with its sustainability (environmental, social and governance) performance as measured through the GRI's key performance indicators,‖ said Ariola.

The Amsterdam-based GRI organization defines sustainability reports as the key platform for communicating sustainability performance and impacts – whether positive or negative--to its stakeholders.

This integrated report represents EDC's deep commitment to the inclusive growth of its partner communities and the preservation of the environment in areas where it operates.

A copy of EDC's 2014 Performance Report can be obtained from its sustainability reporting site: http://www.energy.com.ph/ sustainability. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Ombudsman leads 1st caravan of gov‘t services TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Nov. 7 (PIA) - In an effort to bring government services closer to the people, the Office of Ombudsman Visayas led on Thursday the first caravan of government agencies in Region 8.

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he caravan was first held in Hernani, Eastern Samar.

According to Atty. Eduardo Kangleon, Acting Director, Ombudsman No. VIII, the caravan which has become one of the major activities of their agency, ―aims to establish rapport and confidence so that, people will see the government not as a distant entity but as a caring body".

But why Hernani, when it is some three hours land trip from Tacloban, besides, other poor municipalities are there found along the three-hour route to the place.

Atty. Kangleon said the direction to Hernani spawned from the town mayor, Edgar Boco‘s inquiry in their office, in behalf of the ―Yolanda‖ survivors who, after two years of devastation, have not benefited yet from the Emergency Shelter Assistance (ESA) as a government program. ―It‘s been two years and it is sad to note that there are still survivors wallowing in abnormal living conditions in temporary shelters and bunkhouses,‖ he said. ―However, I was also informed that, such things happen because the distribution of the ESA is in accordance to certain guidelines which must be

followed, so, that‘s the main reason‖, he added.

Realizing that Hernani is second poorest town in Eastern Samar, with 23.2% poverty incidence, next to McArthur (53.4%), the Ombudsman deemed it necessary to do the caravan first in the area, adding that it was the second most devastated town by super typhoon ―Yolanda‖.

In effect, close to 800 patients before noon on November 5, have availed of varied health services, right at the town plaza where military and police dentists did some tooth extraction and consultations and referrals by medical doctors.

Other services included granting of Postal I.D.s by Philippine Post Office, PhilHealth payments, distribution of vegetable seeds by D.A., advices to barangay officials on their Internal Revenue Allotment(IRA) by DBM, correction of entries in school records by DepEd, offering of jobs to laborers and masons

by Yacal Construction through DPWH, and selling of rice at P27.00 a kilo by NFA. TESDA likewise offered free haircut to Hernani folks.

In his message, Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas, Atty. Paul Clemente said, what can be more glorious than working to-

gether as a people, teaching each other, crying for one another, laughing with one another, healing one another, entertaining one another, worshipping with one another.‖ Director Leonardo Sibbaluca of DENR 8 for his part, said that the Caravan should be sustained so that, there can be immediate check and balance between government project implementors and beneficiaries.

Sibbaluca said this during the conference with the regional directors and project implementors, where there was mention of a number of permanent shelters which have not been implemented.

It was learned later from the NHA representative that the project had been bidded out and ground breaking was soon to follow.

For a fifth class municipality like Hernani, Ombudsman Clemente concluded that it is never impossible to move the place to a better strata.

With all the government entities gathered, he figuratively compared the town to a child, being reared by an entire village. (PIA-08)

Red Cross completes 80% of projects in Leyte CONSUELO B. ALARCON TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Nov.11 (PIA) --- Almost 80 percent of the projects/interventions undertaken by the Philippine Red Cross in Yolanda affected areas in Leyte was accomplished two years after the super typhoon struck the region.

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h e a c c o m p l i s h m e n t s i n c lu d e humanitarian intervention through emergency assistance, shelter, livelihood, WASH, health and Education.

In his presentation report Sunday, PRC Chairman Richard Gordon reported that of the 66, 011 homes built for typhoon Yolanda victims amounting to Php2.2 billion, half of these equivalent to 30, 000 homes were completed in Leyte.

Red Cross also provided livelihood assistance to 59, 218 households in Yolanda

affected areas; 20, 198 families in Leyte benefitted this, more than what is being targeted which is only 19, 161 families.

It also reached 90, 779 families with cash relief assistance during the emergency phase; rehabilitated and constructed 410 classrooms amounting to Php68, 593, 112. 65.

Of the 151 target classrooms in Leyte, 88 classrooms were completed.

Not only that, Philippine Red Cross also extended assistance on healthcare, hygiene,

sanitation and disaster risk reduction.

But the work of the men and women of PRC did not end there.

According to Gordon, PRC continues to move forward in achieving its commitment to countless families affected by Yolanda.

In the 2nd Yolanda anniversary commemoration, PRC officials revisited the various provinces hit by the typhoon to check on the progress of its efforts which according to them a ceaseless recovery and renewal to all survivors. (ajc/PIA8)

DILG distributes patrol jeeps to 40 Leyte LGUs TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Nov. 9(PIA) – Brand new patrol jeeps were distributed Friday by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to 40 municipalities in the Province of Leyte that will be used in law enforcement and emergency response operations.

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ecretary Mel Senen Sarmiento of the Department of Interior and Local Government led the blessing and distribution of the patrol jeeps at the DZR Airport grounds, this city.

Sarmiento said the vehicles will help the law enforcers in their one-time big time operations to neutralize illegal activities resulting to crime rate reduction.

For his part, Sr. Supt. Franco Simborio, Leyte police provincial director, said that the

distribution of the brand patrol jeeps is very timely for the realization of the PNP‘s ―Lambat Sibat Program‖ which is proven to be very effective in the integral operational function of the PNP. ―We are very thankful that finally all municipal police stations under Leyte police provincial office will have the opportunity to enhance their police operations through the new patrol jeeps from the national government,‖ Simborio said.

In behalf of the people of Leyte, Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico L. Petilla thanked the national government for the patrol jeeps.

He believes this will boost the anti-criminality campaign of the PNP with the hope to lessen the crime incidence in the province.

The 40 brand new patrol jeeps are in addition to the patrol jeeps procured by the PNP to be distributed to 1, 490 police stations in the country.(ajc/PIA8)

EASTERN VISAYAS Airline company considers Panan-awan airport route

7 So.

Leyte

MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Nov. 9 (PIA) -- A subsidiary of an established airline company has declared its intention to ply the Maasin-Manila air traffic as soon as the safety concerns of the Panan-awan airport in this city shall have been addressed.

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his was learned from a letter dated October 19, 2015 by Michael Ivan Shau, President and CEO of Cebu Pacific, addressed to Gov. Roger Mercado and marked received by the Governor‘s Office October 29.

Copies of the letter were distributed to members of the local media in a press conference with Gov. Mercado at the Kinamot sa Abgao restaurant October 30. ―We wish to thank you for the letter sent by your office to Mr. Lance Y. Gokongwei requesting Cebu Air, Inc. (‗Cebu Pacific‘) to operate flights from Manila to Maasin using turbo propeller aircraft.

―Cebgo, Inc. (‗Cebgo‘), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cebu Pacific, would most likely be the operator of flights from Manila to Maasin and Maasin to Manila, with its fleet of ATR 72-500 aircraft,‖ Shau wrote.

In his letter, Shau mentioned the findings of Cebu Pacific‘s Safety and Technical Team which conducted a survey and inspection in September last year, such as the provision of a Category 5 Rescue and Fire Fighting Service, completion of airport terminal building, and lengthening of airport runway, among other safety concerns, that should have been solved once they begin to operate.

―The bulk of our new aircraft will be arriving in late 2017 in line with our fleet expansion plans and we hope that by then, the safety concerns enumerated above would have been already addressed and certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines,‖ Shau said.

During the press conference, Gov. Mercado said the concerns were already looked into, adding that with a functional airport, coupled with an alternate seaport at nearby Guadalupe area, the tourism and economic potentials of the province will certainly get an uplifting boost. (mmp, PIA8Southern Leyte)

Special Moron adds up to Abuyog, EV‘s pride TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Nov. 11 (PIA) – It was first the ―Buyogan Festival‖ that brought Abuyog town to the center of tourists attractions of Region 08, then the special Moron came next.

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wned by Esmeralda Diorico Manaog, of ―Mary‘s Abuyog Special Chocolate Moron at Iba Pa,‖ the previously simply steamed ―Bakintol‖ in Eastern Samar, but Moron in Leyte has now levelled up in taste and packaging. ―There‘s butter in the Tableya and it is better packed with a better leaf-wrapper,‖ she informed.

The new decently wrapped and packaged Moron is now available with other locally produced products at the ―Bahandi Pasalubong Center,‖ which was launched today by Department of Trade and Industry(DTI).

Mary said, she has been making rolls and rolls of the special chocolate Moron for the past 23 years but she has not burned out of the daily rigor, probably because the task is both self-gratifying and financially rewarding. ―I enjoy the task my mother handed

down to me and I have considered it a family heirloom. Over the years, it has given us so much privilege to live a decent life,‖ she said.

She was modest to share that her daily gross income is more than the whole month salary of an ordinary-ranking school teacher. ―But being gross, means, I still have to pay for my workers and cooking materials,‖ Mary pointed out.

According to her, she buys Tableya (Cacao-made chocolate) in Davao at P190.00 a kilo and they still process it to fit to the taste of her Moron product. Because of ―Yolanda,‖ she has also to import Banana leaves from other provinces which were luckier to have not been hit by the super typhoon.

A member of the Eastern Visayas Producers Association that, through the Department of Trade and Industry(DTI) launched today, the ―Bahandi Pasalubong

Center at the VIP-Lounge of the Tacloban Airport,‖ Mary takes pride to have recovered with the assistance of DTI and AUSAID. She has been awarded by DOLE as ―Best ChocoMoron Maker‖ in Region 08.

The Moron maker shared that despite the ―Yolanda‖ devastation, she is on the way to recovery because of the assistance also of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) which granted her a Steamer, Gas Stove and Gas Tank. ―Without it, it would be hard for me to cook in just one round, some 700 rolls of the famous Chocolate Moron,‖ she shared further. She admits though, that before ―Yolanda‖ struck, she would receive thousands of orders, and there was even one V&G Fiesta when she delivered multicab-load of Chocolate Moron or to be exact, 6,000 pieces of the native delicacy. (PIA-08)

Basey bag designer opts to rise above odds TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Nov. 11 (PIA) – First was her father‘s death, two days after, all of the family‘s belongings were washed out by ―Yolanda‖ storm surge, and two months later, she was diagnosed with the big C.

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ut neither of the three daunted Eva Marie Adona to move on and let go of those life‘s sad episodes. Now, she and husband Patrick are slated for Germany to join in the country‘s Trade Show, ―Abiente‖, where they will bring and showcase native products from Basey, Samar, particularly the intricately yet beautifully woven bags with the famous ―banig‖ made of Tikog.

In our brief talk at the Tacloban Airport Lounge, during the launching today of the Bahandi Pasalubong Airport, Eva looked so spiritually blessed and inspiring.

She shared that his hubby was so depressed at the knowledge in the ―Yolanda‖ aftermath, that all their equipment and the 200 boxes of bags for delivery to a Japanese exporter were all gone to the sea.

Despite all the odds however, she opted to be strong and stand up for her husband, their four kids and even for the weavers who were dependent in the family‘s industry.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) came to their rescue and offered them loan so they could restart a totally damaged business.

Asked where they got the required raw materials, since majority of the Basey town was devastated, she informed, that they import Tikog and Buri materials from San Miguel, Leyte.

Slowly then, they moved forward and started joining again in trade shows where they would be given free booths by DTI and shipment assistance as well, for their products.

She recalled, that when she was having chemotherapy sessions in Manila, she would opt to be home immediately after, than be in bed for days, because to her, designing bags and supervising her weavers were better therapies.

Last September, the Eva Marie Arts and Crafts was named Best Dressed Booth in the Bahandi Trade in Manila.

She further shared that today, an estimate of 50% recovery could be said of their cottage industry but it is far better, she said.

She is thankful for her father, a Ramon Magsaysay Awardee in Handicraft in 2001, from whom she credits her innate passion, expertise and mastery in bag designing and weaving. (PIA-08)

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