One Visayas e-Newsletter Vol 5 Issue 13

Vol 5

Issue 13

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Guimaras Representative JC Rahman Nava (5th from right), Guimaras Governor Samuel Gumarin (4th from left), and PHINMA Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Ramon del Rosario Jr. (4th from right) lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony during the dedication ceremony of the 54-MW windfarm in San Lorenzo, Guimaras held Friday, March 27, 2015.

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

March 30 - April 5, 2015

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

DPWH-6 steps up infra needed for APEC Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, March 31 (PIA6)—There is no let-up to the efforts of the Department of Public Works and Highways to prepare the infrastructures needed for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings here.

DPWH Regional Director Edilberto Tayao said that the pride in having the APEC here is challenging the agency to ensure that infrastructure projects are finished on time.

As of press time, Tayao reported that the Iloilo Convention Center, the main venue for the APEC meetings, is now 70 percent complete. ―Phase I of the project is 96 percent complete,‖ Tayao said.

Phase I, with an appropriation of P500 million, includes all structural concrete structures, from footings or foundations, to roofing, elevator pit and cistern tank, electrical, mechanical, sanitary and masonry works, thermal and moisture protection, floor cement finishes and the like.

Included also are the installation of Iloilo Bush stone finish wall and glass curtain wall with Dinagyang Warrior design. Phase II with a budget of P200 million covers all finishing works, electrical and mechanical installations and specialty works. ―Our target date of completion is middle of July, instead of the end we previously targeted, because we maximized the accomplishment,‖ Tayao said. He added that the last two weeks of July will be for the completion of installation of

mechanical and electrical amenities, such as elevators, escalators and air conditioning units.

On the other hand, DPWH also reported that another major project it is expediting now is the widening and improvement of the Senator Benigno Aquino avenue that stretches 15.60 kilometers from the junction of Gen. Lina Street, Iloilo City, to the Iloilo Airport in Cabatuan. The road serves as gateway to Iloilo City from the airport and from Iloilo City to other central towns in the province.

Meanwhile, Tayao said that when the ICC will be completed fully, the operation and maintenance of the building will be open for bidding.(JSC/ESS-PIA6 Iloilo)

DPWH Regional Director Edilberto Tayao. (PIA-6 file photo)

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New power projects to produce over 400 MW in 2015 CENTRAL VISAYAS

BSP official conducts briefing on Demonetization and Money Security Features for members of the Association of Negros Oriental Public Information Officers (ANOPIO) at BSP conference room, Dumaguete City. (PIA NegOr)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Fayette C. Riñen CEBU, March 27 (PIA) -- Amid reports of a power crisis in Manila, the Department of Energy - Visayas Field Office (DOE-VFO) assured that sufficient supply still exists in the Visayas Region with committed power projects to augment available capacity with additional 473 megawatts this year.

DOE-VFO regional director Engr. Antonio Labios said there are 11 committed power projects that will be commissioned this year throughout the Visayas Region that includes coal-fired power plants, wind and biomass energy sources.

In Cebu, the expansion project of the Toledo Power Company‘s coal-fired thermal power plant in Sangi power station will boost power supply here with an additional 82 MW starting this year, said Labios during the Power Outlook Forum recently initiated by the Visayas Electric Company (VECO).

Currently, the total power capacity stands at 1,598 MW with maximum demand recorded at 1,465 MW last March 11, said Labios.

Minimum demand meanwhile, was at 1,196 MW recorded last January 17 during the Papal Visit and the Sinulog celebration. ―There is still sufficient power supply in the entire Visayas including Cebu,‖ assured the DOE-Visayas chief adding that arriving at a critical level is remote at this time as there are three levels of power reserves that must be exhausted

before a power crisis occurs.

The three reserves identified by Labios are contingency, dispatchable and regulating.

The contingency and dispatchable reserves are equivalent to the first and second largest single running unit of the grid respectively, both of which are pegged at 100MW each.

The regulating reserve refers to the four percent of the system demand, bared Labios. ―As of now, we are safe,‖ declared Labios although he admitted that yesterday was a ‗yellow‘ alert state which means that the contingency reserve fell below 100 MW which registered at 90MW yesterday.

A red alert status, on the other hand, refers to a zero contingency reserve which is deemed as critical leading to rotating blackouts, said Labios.

Labios however said by 2017, Cebu will need more additional power plants to cope with increasing demand because by 2020, the projected power demand will rise to 1,700 MW. ―We need more power investments to address the increasing demand for power,‖ declared Labios as DOE is embarking on an aggressive campaign here and abroad to present potentials for energy development to would-be investors.

Labios further said that indicative power projects in the Visayas that include hydro and wind power sources will produce an additional 954.5 MW. (mbcn/fcr/PIA7)

NGP is beyond reforestation – DENR

CENRO Dario Suarez said that one hectare of mangrove can produce one thousand tons of fish, that 64% of our food are taken from the sea with only 36% from land, amazing di ba? I have heard this tone from a friend BFAR Ron Berida as he talks about how much rice/ fish an average person consumes in a year. (PIA Catbalogan)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

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NINFA B. QUIRANTE CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, April 1 (PIA) - The National Greening Program delivers beyond its primary objective of re-greening the country, says Catbalogan Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO) Mar Torres.

Torres said at a meeting Tuesday with peoples organizations (POs) and farmers group implementing the program that with the NGP fund, most farmers organization who have successfully committed to the programs have started reaping the fruits of their labor. ―While we cannot claim that 100% of them have grown economically stable, we can say that the project has helped them send their kids to school because it has given them jobs,‖ said Torres.

Some of those especially people‘s organizations who have

benefitted from the program stepped forward to testify that their lives have changed since NGP. The people‘s organizations earn income from seedlings production and forest restoration. From this NGP fund, they venture into small business that also earn.

NGP not only aims to reforest the country but also to maintain food security, reduce poverty, maintain environmental stability and conserve biodiversity. By providing them the reforestation project, they are given an alternative income and something to do that veer them away from charcoal making, timber poaching and other past livelihood that denudes the forest and mangrove, a DENR official said. ―Since they have put a great stake in the trees and mangroves, they have also turned into its staunch defenders,‖ said Torres. (NBQ/PIA 8-Samar)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

Environment projects get P33-M

By Easter Anne D. Doza NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, March 27 (PIA6) - - A multi-party agreement was signed by project implementers including the Province of Negros Occidental through the Provincial Environment Management Office and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)-Protected Area Management Enhancement (PAME) for a P33-million worth of environment-related projects.

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f the P33-million worth of projects GIZ-PAME‘s counter-part amounts toP7,534,060 while the Provincial Government through PEMO allocated P11,216,171 and the rest is shared by various stakeholders.

Included in the memorandum signed are projects on the Conservation and Protection Management of Coastal Wetlands in Negros Occidental, Enhanced Management Initiatives for Southern Cauayan Municipal Forest and Watershed Reserve and the Management Enhancement of Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed Forest Reserve.

Governor Alfredo G. Marañon in his message during the signing of the MOA reiterated his vocal stand and his unyielding position on environment protection. ―The agreements serve as a perfect

example on how man and nature can sustainably co-exist. All of our forces put together in the fruition of these activities will be our own little steps in making this world a better place,‖ Marañon told environment stakeholders gathered at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol for the signing of the agreements.

The assistance of GIZ-PAME together with PEMO and the Negros Occidental Coastal Wetlands Area Management Alliance (NOCWAMA) under the Conservation and Protection Management of Coastal Wetlands project will give way to the establishment of 10 local conservation areas that are sustainably managed and protected by coastal communities in Bago City all the way to Ilog town.

The Enhanced Management Initiatives for Southern Cauayan Municipal Forest seeks to

improve the management of reserve, ensure continuous and abundant supply of water and protect the endangered wildlife species together with its partner - the Southern Cauayan Municipal Forest and Watershed Reserve Management Board.

Institutional mechanisms will be set up to ensure that the Ilog-Hilabangan Watershed Forest Reserve is protected from threats like settlements, timber poaching, charcoal making and wildlife hunting that affects even the Indigenous Peoples belonging to the Bukidnon Karulanos tribe that occupy the certain areas.

Project implementers also received motorcycle units and some equipment like laptops, printers, cameras, among others that will aid them in the efficient implementation of these projects. *(JCM/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

Treñas on R.A. 10653: Higher tax exemption means greater take home pay ILOILO CITY, April 3 (PIA6) – Iloilo City Lone District Congressman Jerry P. Treñas said he authored the bill of the new law increasing the tax exemption for the 13th month pay and other bonuses “to give greater tax relief” to countless of public and private employees here and throughout the country.

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reñas‘ House Bill No. 3670 and consolidated as House Bill No. 4970 has been approved by President Aquino as Republic Act No. 10653.

Treñas said the new law increases the income tax exemption threshold of the 13th month pay and other benefits

from Php30, 000.00 per year to Php82, 000.00. Bonuses of employees from both the private and public sectors amounting to below Php82, 000.00 will no longer be taxed.

The new law also authorizes the President to adjust the tax free bonus threshold every three years in order to

account for inflation, through the present value determined by the prevailing Consumer Price Index (CPI).

The Ilonggo solon said the increase in the tax exemption threshold will allow our hardworking private and government employees to receive greater take home pay. (Treñas CDO/PIA6)

Antique PNP rolls out KKK Droga Project

By Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique, March 31 (PIA6) - - The Antique Provincial Police Office reiterated its all-out war against illegal drugs with KKK Droga Project or Kapulisan kag Komunidad Kontra Droga Project.

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SSupt Edgardo O. Ordaniel said getting rid of illegal drugs is not the work of the PNP alone or the Phil Drug Enforcement Agency or PDEA but of the community as well. ―With the launching of KKK Droga project, Ordaniel said, we call on the active participation of Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council or the BADAC with the support of MADAC AND PADAC in cases of Municipal and Provincial levels .

KKK Droga Project is a flagship program of the Police Community Relations Office of the Antique PNP in compliance to the policy

issued by Police Regional Office 6 Director C/ Supt. Josepheus Angan to clear barangays saturated with illegal drugs.

In line with this, DILG Provincial Director Victorio Pagapulan said 96 percent of the 590 total barangays have organized BADACs but only 76 percent are functional or 463 BADACs. Thus, Ordaniel encouraged the community residents to report drug users or pushers operating their barangay and make their local drug abuse councils functional.

On the other hand, PNP Inspector Bryan Alamo reported that out of 590 barangays, 79

are affected with illegal drug problem. The convenience of travel through ports and RORO buses are also seen as a means to convey illegal drugs from other provinces in Panay and Metro Manila.

However, PNP also reported that there is no drug hot spot in the province as well as marijuana plantation. No reported Narco politics and transnational drug groups operating in the province as of this date, said Alamo. In 2014, Antique PNP has conducted 21 Drug buy-bust operation which resulted to the arrest of 29 drug personalities. (JCM/PSM/ PIA6 Antique)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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54-MW wind farm a „game-changer‟ for Guimaras

By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, March 30 (PIA6) --- The 54-megawatt (MW) wind farm in San Lorenzo, Guimaras is considered a “game-changer” in the island-province as it sparked tourism and development.

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n the dedication ceremony held recently, Guimaras Governor Samuel Gumarin said that the facility has increased local employment among community residents since its construction phase and is beginning to attract more tourists now that it is completed. ―There was an increase of 15.5 percent of tourist arrivals to the island last year as compared to 2013,‖ he said.

He said that this development initiative is a key driver for Guimaras province to become an agri-tourism destination in the country.

He also said that the wind farm harnesses renewable energy which is not just a trend to be followed at present but what the community should uphold. ―We adopt technology but we also uphold global sustainability for the conservation of our assets and resources,‖ he said.

The San Lorenzo Wind Farm is the s e c o n d in v e s t m en t of T r a n s - A s ia Renewable Energy Corporation (TAREC) in Guimaras.

The first was a 3.4-MW Diesel Plant which has a long-running bilateral contract with Guimaras Electric Cooperative

(GUIMELCO), the sole electric cooperative in the island.

Meanwhile, Danilo Panes, Vice President for Wind Energy Development of Trans-Asia, said they are planning to sustain the interest in the wind farm facility by helping design a tourism roadmap for the island.

He said that TAREC will be working with the local government of Guimaras and San Lorenzo to make the wind farm as a catalyst for change in the island province. (JCM/LTP/ PIA-Iloilo)

BSP intensifies campaign for demonetization of old banknotes

By Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, March 30 (PIA6) – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is intensifying its advocacy campaign in line with the demonetization process.

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nformation Officer Ma. Karenz Odchigue of BSP-Roxas Branch disclosed that an information and education drive is being conducted in the various towns and offices in Capiz and Aklan.

She said that they have also been going to various schools in said two provinces to make the public aware of the schedule of demonization of the old banknotes or New Design Series.

Odchigue said that as early as January,

they have conducted series of advocacy campaign, reaching among others some local government units to inform them about the policy on the old bank notes.

Earlier, they conducted an information drive with members of the Capiz Association of Government Public Information Officers, who will act as force multipliers in information dissemination.

She reminded the public that the old bank notes will only be acceptable in all financial

transactions until December 31,2015. ―The public can still exchange the old bank notes with the new bank notes or New Generation Currency Series through banks and other authorized financial institutions until December 31,2016 but will no longer be accepted for payment transaction‖ Odchigue stressed. She said that effective January 1, 2017 the old bank notes that have not been exchanged will have no more monetary value. (JCM/JBG/PIA6-Capiz)

Aklan bags GAD Learning Hub award

By Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, April 1 (PIA6) -- The province of Aklan is now a certified Gender and Development (GAD) Local Learning Hub with the awarding recently of glass markers by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) March 30.

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he awarding is one of the significant activities in celebration of Women‘s Month here in the province of Aklan.

The awarding program was held at the lobby of the Provincial Capitol Building Lobby right after the Monday Flag-Raising Ceremony, with Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo receiving the glass markers representing Gov. Florencio T. Miraflores.

One of the glass markers is for the Aklan Comprehensive Center for Women (ACCW) which was received by Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (PSWDO) Evangelina Gallega.

The certification of Aklan GAD as a Local Learning Hub was strongly backed up by the institutionalization of the ACCW, the significant presence of an organization of Aklanon men – the Men Opposed to Violence Against Women and Children Everywhere

(MOVE), now being replicated in various local government units (LGUs) here and the services of the province rendered to victim-survivors of Violence Against Women (VAW).

Dr. Paloma P. Papa, PCW Board Member, led the awarding of the glass markers. She was accompanied by Nharleen S.Millar, Chief of PCW TSD who gave the overview of the Certification of GAD Local Learning Hub. In her message, Dr. Papa commended Aklan for having a unique group like MOVE-Aklan which is in keeping now with the worldwide direction that shows men and women are really partners in the development of the community.

For her part, Vice Governor Calizo, who read the message of Gov. Miraflores and delivered one of her own, expressed gratitude to the PCW for recognizing Aklan as one of the five learning hubs in the country.

Calizo thanked the PCW for the recognition but stressed too that with it comes the challenge to sustain it. ―We are now expected to maintain, improve more and be living example in the country‖, Vice Governor Calizo-Quimpo told the audience, composed of provincial and national government employees both men and women.

She also acknowledged the power of legislation and said that Aklan has exemplified the objective of GAD advocacy, well-internalized by the LGUs. She also revealed that currently, there are more women working at the Provincial Capitol and there are also more lady department heads. ―Rest assured Aklan is committed to advocate GAD mainstreaming‖, she told the PCW. (JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

DTI : Watch out for substandard construction materials Rey Anthony H. Chiu BOHOL, March 26 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry warns the public against substandard construction materials sold in Bohol and in nearby areas.

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TI-7 regional director Aster Caberte said the agency is closely monitoring standards compliance for consumer products and construction materials, especially during this time that Bohol LGUs are currently undergoing reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts after the October 2013 earthquake.

DTI recently confiscated some P258,326 worth of substandard construction materials already displayed in six establishments from Tagbilaran City and in Tubigon town.

The DTI along with a group from the Fair Trade and Enforcement Bureau issued notices of violations to the same stores for selling construction materials that could not pass the Philippine National Standards (PNS).

Caberte said the DTI does this according to the mandates of Republic Act 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines The consumer Act mandates DTI to conduct monitoring and enforcement activities on the proper marking and labelling of consumer products. ―We have notified our field offices in the provinces to increase the frequency of their market visits to check on more products, including electrical supplies,‖ Caberte added.

According to the DTI, so as not to be fooled into buying substandard construction materials especially in plywood, deformed bars and galvanized iron sheets for roofing, consumers must do the following: Check the basic markings on the plywood and

galvanized iron (GI) sheets prior to purchase.

These basic markings include company name, trade name and the address of the manufacturer.

The DTI added that consumers must check the thickness in millimetre (mm); width in mm and the date of manufacture (month and year).

G.I. sheet markings must contain the phrase ―For Roofing Use‖ on its face, DTI reminds.

Consumers should be aware that despite strict monitoring by government agencies tasked to implement product standards, some enterprising businessmen still sell products that could not pass the test of strength needed to construct disaster resilient structures. (mbcn/rac/PIA7-Bohol)

Int'l NGO boosts Bogo's anti-human trafficking drive Rachelle M. Nessia BOGO CITY, Cebu, April 2 (PIA) -- The city government here received help desk equipment from Plan International, an international children's non-government organization, to boost the city's drive to eliminate human trafficking in Palambato Wharf.

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lan International donated computers, cameras, and other office paraphernalia that will help the city in documenting cases of human trafficking.

The turnover of the donated equipment was held on March 30 and done through the ―Anti -Trafficking in Persons Project‖ which aims to prevent and protect children and women during emergency situations in the province of Cebu, according to a press statement.

Mayor Celestino Martinez, Jr. received the equipment on behalf of the city government and represented the city in the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Bogo City and Plan International.

The turnover of equipment and signing of MOA was witnessed by the Department of Justice‘s Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking Region VII,

Children‘s Legal Bureau, members of the City of Bogo Local Council Against Trafficking, and representatives from barangays in the project areas.

The MOA seals the collaboration of the two p a r ti e s in e n sur i n g t h at e st a bl i she d community-based mechanisms are functional and that the anti-trafficking in person interventions are integrated in the disaster response provided to affected children, families, and communities.

According to Plan International, during disasters, children become more vulnerable to human trafficking due to loss of safety nets, separation from families, and disruption of livelihood.

Women and children are compelled to seek better living conditions, making them potential targets of the recruiters. ―We are here to present better options for

the families and their children. We want the children to choose to stay in school and enjoy their right to education.

We also want the parents to be with their children, but if the parents really choose to migrate for work, we want them to migrate safely,‖ says Katherine Dela Calzada, Project Manager of Plan International.

The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Project also covers capacity -building trainings for local leaders, law enforcers, and social workers to equip them with the basic knowledge and skills in detecting, reporting, and responding to trafficking cases during emergencies.

The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Project started in June 2013 will be implemented until March 2016. (rmn/PIA7-Cebu/Plan International)

ASOG echoes call to strengthen accountability in gov‟t Roi Anthoni B. Lomotan DUMAGUETE CITY, March 28 (PIA) – The Ateneo School of Government (ASOG) echoes its call to strengthen accountability measures in government offices to ensure good governance in a forum with city officials, barangay leaders and heads Civil Society Organization (CSO) here recently.

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SOG executive director Joy Aceron says this is time for Dumagueteños and other Negrenses to take on the challenge of strengthening accountability in government institutions to promote transparency and the efficient delivery of services to the public.

She noted that accountability is one factor of good governance that needs a big support from the government and civil society. ―We can sustain and do good governance consistently if there is accountability,‖ Aceron disclosed. ―Accountability corresponds to power. What is the entrusted power to you and how are you exercising that? And that entrusted power should benefit all,‖ she adds.

To ensure accountability there should be a monitoring from public and from CSOs on the government‘s projects and services. ―Importante na ang lahat ng mamamayan ay makikilahok, ang hamon ay paano mo nga ba mahihikayat ang taumbayan na makilahok at sila ay magtanong kung naibibigay at maayos bang napapatakbo ng gobyerno ang mga programa at serbisyo?‖ Aceron emphasized.

For monitoring to work out, there should bureaucratic and institutional reforms that would heighten the involvement of the public through the CSOs in monitoring of programs of the government. CSOs should not only take part in the approval of a project but also be part of the planning stage.

Also, to capacitate citizens in this task, there should be an easy access to quality information that would become a basis for the public if government is efficient in delivering its services.

Aceron cites the partnership with some locals in the implementation of ASOG‘s Government Watch (G-Watch) project in Dumaguete that involves monitoring of health services in barangay health centers.

With this, Aceron hopes that people will have a heightened consciousness on accountability and its importance in governance. ―Malakipa ang pwedeng gawin at malaki pa ang hamon at gusto naming mayroong magpapatuloy ng ganoong gawain,‖ she concluded. (mbcn/ral/ PIA7-NegOr)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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PIA Cebu conducts bloggers forum on rabies

By Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, April 1 (PIA) --- The Philippine Information Agency – Cebu conducted a bloggers' forum recently for rabies advocacy in time for the celebration of rabies awareness and prevention month.

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nvited guests were health and animal authorities from the region, province and Cebu City and several bloggers who were already part of recent PIA-Cebu initiated activities.

DOH-7 regional rabies program coordinator Dr. Eugenia Canal described to the group the nature of rabies when acquired by a human. ―Usual symptoms include fever, sore throat, body malaise after the incubation period and then followed by the neurologic symptoms,‖ Canal said.

The dog has to be observed from one to two weeks, she added.

Canal said DOH-7 noticed an increasing trend of rabies infection on the human side however these are treated because of the availability of medicines at the Animal Bite Treatment Centers. ―We have 18 certified rabies centers in Cebu and Philhealth benefits can be availed by the patient,‖ Canal said.

She also emphasized that the distance of the wound to the brain matters a lot in the infection.

Balbino Guerrero of www.binoguidecebu.com and who was a rabies survivor asked if just like other illnesses, if there‘ll be a recurrence of the infection. ―No, once you completed all the rabies infection treatment, then you are declared clear, ― Canal said.

On the other hand, Dr. Pilar Romero of the Department of Veterinary and Fisheries, Cebu City said stray dogs are mostly the source of rabies.

The City according to Romero encourages all dog owners to have their dogs registered at their office. ―When the dog is registered, it can make pet owners liable for medical expenses in case of accidental bites and the dog can also avail of services,‖ Romero said.

Romero also said, other than dog registration, the city is also into dog adoption. ―A person who wants to adopt a dog will just have to be screened and pay the amount of P150 for dog ownership,‖ Romero said.

Department of Agriculture's regional rabies

coordinator Dr. Teodoro Dabocol said, signs of dogs who are rabid include violent or unruly behavior, running without any direction, too much salivating, difficulty in eating and drinking and being uneasy.

A fine of 2,000 is given to a pet owner who fails or refuses to register and to vaccinate his dog for rabies and P500 every time the dog is caught outside.

Other bloggers who joined the forum include Jeph Flores of KIAT CEBU, Chanel Imperial of www.sugbosentro.wordpress.com , Johnn Mendoza of www.focalglass.com, www.foodincebu.com, www.wildlifephilippines.com and Richard Bunabos of www.gizspec.com .

PIA and the Cebu Bloggers Society had tied up in several projects particularly in advocating social good.

PIA supports CBS project #iBLOGforSocialGood which aims to disseminate developmental things happening in society.

The official hashtag for the forum is #iBLOGforRabiesFreePH. (mbcn/fcc/PIA7-Cebu)

SEED pools flip flops for poor kids

By Rey Anthony H. Chiu BOHOL, March 27 (PIA) -- Over 70 slippers for deprived children sum up the slipper pool which a Holy Name University (HNU) club and class intended to hand over within the next few days to beneficiaries they could identify.

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NUs Students for the Environment, Education and Development (SEED) members save a few from their meager allowance to buy an extra pair of slippers, while the school's class on tourism impacts and sustainability also pitched in to make the life of a kid more memorable.

In its annual activity to cap a semester, SEED members and tourism students put on their slippers and joined in a "walk to remember," a walk for a cause which they hold regularly.

It's a commitment to the environment, to the community and to ourselves, a SEED member said when asked what he intends to get in joining the Saturday afternoon event March 14.

What was not regular during the recent activity

was that the students had to ascend Banat-i Hill and in portions of the climb, took off their slippers in an attempt to reconnect with the earth.

The initiative to reconnect with the earth is consistent with a healthy lifestyle trend called "earthing," where man attempts to re-establish his body's balance which has been disconnected from the earth and ground it back.

An earlier lecture sharing on Earthing happened at the HNU AV Hall where speakers impress the disconnection.

"Throughout time, humans have sat, stood, strolled, and slept on the ground – the skin of their bodies touching the skin of the Earth," a sharer said.

And throughout time, such contact served as a conduit for transferring the Earth‘s natural, gentle

negative charge underfoot into the body, he continued to explain the possible source of imbalance which makes man more vulnerable to illnesses.

Scientists and Earthing practitioners noted that contact with the Earth, appears to uphold the electrical stability of bodies and serve as a foundation for vitality and health, thus the need to re-connect anew.

For all this, SEED members and tourism students under professor Emmylou Palacio-Noel did their little share of the walk t o h e l p n e e d y k i d s , i m p r e s s th e i r position of environment protection as well as reconnect with the earth. (mbcn/rac/ PIA7-Bohol)

Bayaning Bayan to give face to local Filipino heroes Hazel F. Gloria CEBU CITY, April 1 (PIA) – The Philippine Cultural Education Program (PCEP) of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) launched “Bayaning Bayan: Sa Ating mga Katutubong Epiko Mito at Alamat” project to give face to local Filipino heroes from various regional epics, myths and legends.

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n a press conference recently, Dr. Joseph Cristobal head of the PCEP said the project helps our present generation to fully understand our local heroes.

It aims to develop, establish and popularize clear images and visualizations of local heroes identified in the Sagisag Kultura ng Filipinas, the registry of cultural icons of the country.

The commission hopes that through this national painting competition, it will help promote the Philippine arts and culture development of the country.

NCCA Commissioner Dr. Orlando Magno said, people will tend to appreciate our local

heroes if we give these characters a human face.

NCCA officials called on local artists and illustrators to help them with the project by submitting their own interpretation of 26 characters from 14 folk literatures, including Biag ni Lam-ang, Hudhud of the Ifugaos, Ullalim of Kalinga, Kudaman of Palawan and Agyu Ilianon of North Cotabato, among others.

The artistic coordinator of the project Salvador Ching said, any visual artist 18 years old and above may join the contest. ―We are open for the artists‘ interpretations as long as they have read the stories of the heroes, how they are able to show this will be up to the judges,‖ said Ching.

Ching explained that the image is realistic specially in details of the dresses and their weapons and the colors.

Deadline for entries is on or before May 28 while the awarding will be sometime in September 2015. He said 30 winners will be awarded with P30,000 each and the winning entries will be published in a booklet to be used as reference materials for teachers and featured in an exhibit at EDSA. Magno said references for the epics and application forms are found in the NCCA website. (mbcn/hfg/PIA-7)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

DA cautions EV farmers on El Niño effects TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 2 (PIA) - The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office-8 (DA RFO-8) urges all farmers in Eastern Visayas to prepare and be observant as the nation is currently experiencing a mild El Niño as cited by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

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l Niño happens when there is an unusual warm surface temperature in the Pacific Ocean accompanied by below average or abnormal rainfall. A warmer air temperature will be felt in varying degrees throughout the country.

Based on PAGASA‘s data on climate, the Eastern Visayas region will experience two types of climate which are characterized by evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year with no dry season and maximum monthly rainfall from March to May. Moreover, rice farmers in Leyte are highly vulnerable to the effects of El Niño, Northern Samar and Samar areas are moderately susceptible while Biliran and Eastern Samar are slightly at risk.

On the other hand, corn farmers in Leyte and Biliran will most likely be faced with the impact of El Niño, unlike in the provinces of Southern Leyte, Samar, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar.

DA-8 is now taking precautionary measures to prevent possible damages in the agriculture sector of the region due to the occurrence of the El Niño phenomenon.

The agency is promoting the use of drought tolerant rice varieties such as the green super rice and also advocates crop conversion or diversification in rice areas that lack water supply.

Farmers are encouraged to plant vegetables, corn or other commodities that only require minimal amount of water.

DA-8 through the Rice Program will also fast track the completion of Small Scale Irrigation Projects (SSIPs) which started in 2014 and continue to put in place more SSIPs to attain higher production outputs.

The program likewise put emphasis on the use of water saving techniques or technologies.

In addition, rice ratooning is being pushed as an appropriate technology to attain extra yield from standing rice crops of high quality seeds.

Mean ti m e, li vest ock rai sers are also enjoined to ensure sufficient feeds and appropriate housing for the animals they are tending. (DA-8)

114 finish TESDA skills training in Hernani town

BY SAMUEL CANDIDO BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, March 30 (PIA) The Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA), Provincial Office, Borongan City in collaboration with Arteche National Agricultural School (ANAS), Balangiga National Agricultural School (BNAS) and Local Government Unit (LGU) of Hernani had its Graduation Ceremony on Livelihood Skills Training last month.

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he said Skills Training ran from February 16 to March 6, 2015 and concluded with a graduation rites at the municipal plaza.

Some 114 graduated from different courses such as: Driving -National Certificate II (NC-II), Bread Making, Poultry Raising and Swine Production. Of the 114 graduated, 25 were from Driving, 36 from Bread Making, 27 from Poultry Raising and 26 from Swine Production.

In his graduation message, Engr. Enrico C. Banario, TESDA Provincial Director, emphasized the importance to have an NC-II Certificate, ―because if you apply for skilled livelihood, here in the Philippines or abroad, the employer will ask you if you have NC-II Certificates otherwise if you can't present one, you will not be accepted.‖ ―Those who received Certificates in Bread Making, Poultry Raising and Swine Production, you can start your own business with

a little capital because you already have the skills. From this, you can earn a living and this will add to your small income through this livelihood,‖ he said.

Banario further encouraged the graduates to just open their minds and use their skills to uplift their family and community.

Another message was given by Mr. Adones Caspe, Vocational School Administrator-II of (ANAS) where he categorically said that the graduates have to share the skills they acquired in order to uplift not only themselves but their families and the whole community.

In a brief interview with PIA, Mr. Caspe said, that the 36 graduated from Bread Making will receive tool kits in the amount of P1,016.00 each, while the 26 who graduated from Swine Production will receive a piglet for every two graduated participants

with 40 kilos feeds. The 27 graduated from Poultry Raising 25 chicks, feeder and waterier, multi-vitamins and 10 kilos feeds, will be given by ANAS. Meanwhile, in his Take Home Message, Vice-Mayor Wilmar S. Candido thanked TESDA- Provincial Director Engr. Banario and his staff for the continued support TESDA has given to the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Hernani.

He also thanked Mr. Caspe - Administrator, Trainors Mrs. Corazon Camposano and Mr. Cepriaco Ribong of ANAS and Trainor Mr. Pepito Abrugar, of (BNAS). In his message, he thanked the graduated participants for completing the courses, ―I hope and I pray that your certificates will be used for the future and for the upliftment of the economy of this municipality and the province as well,‖ Vice Mayor Candido said. (ajc/sdc/PIA-E. Samar)

DA, ATI highlight role of women, extension service in aggie dev‟t TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 3 (PIA) - “We value the indispensable role of women farmers as catalyst of agricultural development,” Regional Executive Director Bernadette San Juan said in her message during the Opening Program of the 2nd Farm Home Extensionist Association of the Philippines (FHExAP) National Congress held recently at the Hotel Alejandro, Tacloban City.

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he lady director further enjoined the FHExAP officers and key stakeholders to create policies and programs that address effective and efficient extension services towards the development of Rural Based Organizations such as the Rural Improvement Club (RIC).

Anchored on the theme, ―Partner and Conduit on Quality Extension Services towards Economic Opportunities for Rural Women‖, the congress was primarily designed to apprise the FHExAP members and officers of new programs that are geared towards transformational development among the group.

In his message, Asterio P. Saliot, Agricultural Training Institute‘s National Director, stressed

that agricultural extension is going beyond transfer of technology. ―Extension activity is a non-formal education that provides skill, knowledge and opportunities to change the attitude of individuals,‖ he said.

Director Saliot likewise requested for a stronger complementation among all key players in agri-extension. ―Let us think of ways and means that will strengthen the capacities of farmers, especially the rural women,‖ he said.

Meantime, FHExAP National President, Ms Rosemarie O. Martin highlighted quality extension service as one of the pillars of rural development that addresses food security.

―New opportunities to reconnect with our clientele must be given emphasis to sustainably develop small farm families.

Let us also empower women, because this will lead to an empowered humanity,‖ she stressed.

Series of topics were discussed in the congress, such as the Magna Carta for Women, with no less than RED San Juan as the discussant.

Selected farmers likewise shared their success stories that are worth emulating.

DA-8 former RED and now Urban Agriculture National Program Coordinator, Leo P. Cañeda also shared insights on Good Agricultural Practices. (DA-8/PIA-8)

EASTERN VISAYAS

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CCC conducts media workshop in Tacloban CONSUELO B. ALARCON TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 30 (PIA) –The Climate Change Commission, in partnership with the United Nations Development Program and the Australian government conducted a two-day seminar-workshop for LGU information officers and media practitioners in Eastern Visayas in March 26-27, here.

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he workshop was aimed at intensifying public awareness and translating such awareness into action by improving people‘s perception of their role in environmental protection. ―The media and information officers play a critical role in raising awareness of the communities,‖ Climate Change Commission Assistant Secretary Joyceline Goco said in her message during the workshop.

It cannot be denied that mainstream media is considered as an indispensable source of information and has a role of shaping people‘s awareness and concern in relation to climate change advocacy due to its reach and social influence in the people‘s lives noting that ordinary people are more likely to trust the mainstream media more than they do with the social media where anyone can post a blog on any information which cannot be relied on.

The workshop tackled the role of natural

resources in building resilience of coastal areas; post-Haiyan hazard and exposure information for rehabilitation and recovery; building media‘s resiliency to climate impacts and disasters and understanding climate system and climate change including disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation in the Philippines.

Imelda Albano, President of the Philippine Network of Environmental Journalists, Inc. (PNEJ) and Red Batario, Executive Director, Center for Community Journalism and Development shared also some tips and innovative tools in reporting issues on climate change.

Meanwhile, the Resilience and Preparedness toward Inclusive Development (RAPID) Program, a component of the Project Climate Twin Phoenix was also given emphasis in the discussion of the resource speakers.

RAPID is envisioned to strengthen the capacity of local government units (LGUs) and

their communities particularly those living in coastline areas to manage risks from and adapt to the overall impacts of climate change toward a resilient and sustainable development.

The workshop also conducted field visits in some transitional and permanent shelters in the city where participants talked to selected occupants about their knowledge on climate change and how they deal with the resettlement process.

Part of the workshop output, the participants together with Philippine Information Agency in the region, formulated initial assessments and proposed steps towards building a climate-change resilient community.

With this development, it is expected that vulnerable communities in the region would become more knowledgeable about their risks when a disaster occurs and how they prepare to lessen the severe impact on people. (ajc/cba/ PIA-8)

DA to undertake soil fertility mapping in SoLeyte MARCELO M. PEDALINO MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 26 (PIA) - The Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), in coordination with the provincial government, will conduct a soil fertility mapping for rice growing areas in the province for three months, from April to June this year.

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his was announced by Provincial Agriculturist Marina Gador, head of the Office of the Provincial Agriculture (OPAg), during the Provincial Report cable TV program Tuesday at the capitol building. ―The last soil fertility mapping was done ten years ago, and so this time it will be carried out again to be updated,‖ Gador said, adding that the province‘s only counterpart of the activity was the provision of a service vehicle and two personnel.

The mapping will be done for a duration of 35 days starting on April 13 at Malitbog and will be finished by June 12 at Maasin, covering a sample of 215 hectares out of the province‘s total of 10,067

hectares planted to rice for the 18 towns and one city.

The municipality of Hinunangan is the highest rice growing area at 3,164 hectares, followed by Saint Bernard, 1,083 then Maasin City, 1,048, and Hinundayan, 1,026.

Expected output will be the soil fertility map and fertilizer guide to help farmers achieve higher yield, said Gador, adding that for now the province has been self-sufficient in terms of rice production.

Nerio Lanugan, Provincial Coordinator for Rice, reported that the average harvest is 4.3 tons per hectare, even as most of the rice produced in the province was sold to buyers coming from the

outside, like traders from Bato, Hilongos, and Surigao.

Meanwhile, an Agriculture Summit has been slated to be held in the province, at Lourdes Convention Center in Maasin City on May 7, with speakers coming from the Visayas State University (VSU) and from the Fishery Central Office, said Feliciano Malaki, Jr. of the OPAg‘s Enginnering section.

Other guests in the cable TV program were Feliciano Ambi, who expounded on the need to promote organic farming, and Cipriano Acedo from the Provincial Veterinary Office, who reported on various livestock dispersal projects of the their office. (ajc/esg/mmp, PIA8-Southern Leyte)

Maasin City stakeholders recognize role of women in nation-building MA. REBECCA G. CADAVOS MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte , Marrc 30 (PIA) – The city government of Maasin through the City Social Welfare Services office in cooperation with the different stakeholders and the women‟s groups conducted a culmination activity for the Women‟s Month celebrated this March.

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We recognize and highlight women‘s key roles and accomplishments in leadership, power and in decision-making,‖ PNP Senior Police Officer 3 Jennifer Pagula said during her inspiring message at the culmination program held March 25, 2015 at the city gymnasium.

She said that this year‘s theme dubbed as, ―Juana, Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga sa Bawat Isa, Ikaw Na!, aims to pay tribute to all women leaders who passionately lead and continue to advance women‘s advocacies.

The lady officer who heads the Women and

Child Protection program at the PNP-Maasin City reminded that women contribute a lot to the nation such as during calamities through the promotion of the protection of children, old aged persons, mentally challenged individuals, among others who need help; women in uniform who also provide protection to women and children who are victims of abuse and women Overseas Filipino Workers who sacrifice themselves to give support to their families, among others.

The culmination activity started with a parade around the city proper participated by

different groups of women, then a celebration of the Holy Eucharist, a short program followed and a display of women‘s products in their assigned booths.

The undertaking was also graced by Mayor Maloney Samaco who delivered his message saying that "women are very important in decision -making basing on its theme."

Among other stakeholders present were the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), and some local officials and employees. (ajc/rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)

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

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