One visayas enewsletter vol 7 issue 23 20170609 r6

Vol 7

Issue 23

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Employers' Day. Fernando Nicolas (center), department manager III of the Member Education Department of the Social Security System (SSS), answers queries of one of the employer-participants of their Employers’ Day Program held in Bacolod City, June 7.

(CBA-PIA6 photo)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

Also CLICK Here…

CENTRAL VISAYAS

June 5 - 11, 2017

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

VP Robredo visits development projects in Siquijor Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR, May 29 (PIA) – Vice President Leni Robredo said she is excited about Siquijor province as she gave updates on some completed and ongoing development projects of the province.

This she said during her visit recently to thank the officials and the local folks for their support during the past elections.

Robredo said Siquijor province is so beautiful but not everybody gets to visit because of its accessibility. ―Marami pang hindi nakapunta at hindi nakakakita sa napakaganda ninyong probinsya (Many have not seen nor visited your beautiful province)," she said, lauding the local and national government’s initiative for air and sea ports development as gateways for tourism.

She also acknowledged the province’s primary need for sustainable and sufficient supply of potable water which is now being addressed through the Philippine Rural Developent Project (PRDP) that lined up some P500 million for water and agricultural enhancement.

She believes that preliminary works are being done and the dream for enough water is realized.

She also mentioned the local government’s dream for stable power supply by getting connections from the Negros Islands and assured them of her support as she cited her office’s flagship program called Angat Buhay Partnerships Against Poverty that aims to bridge local government units with private partners in an

effort to serve the needs of the vulnerable and the marginalized.

The program also aims to determine possible areas of engagement and formalize partnerships with and among national government and civil society organization partners based on the needs of identified priority areas.

Under the program, help from private partners are directly served to local government units (LGUs) that are most in need of assistance. ―We link the adopted municipalities with the development partners, get their needs and match them with the list of the services of the international organizations or our development partners,‖ Robredo said as she looks forward to help and partner with Siquijor in the coming years. (rac/PIA7-Siquijor)

Vice President Leni Robredo delivers a message at a program during her recent visit to the province of Siquijor to see for herself various development projects initiated by the local and national governments.

(PIA-7)

12K jobs up at Independence Day fair in Tacloban Consuelo B. Alarcon AGIO-PIA 7 Forum with the Christian Muslim Brotherhood and the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos in Central Visayas (NCMF-7).

The main topic is about federalism and why the brotherhood is pushing for it. Other topics include the assistance and initiatives of NCMF-7 to help the victims of the #MarawiClash.

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

Also CLICK Here…

EASTERN VISAYAS

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 8 (PIA) - Jobseekers in Eastern Visayas will have the opportunity to look for a job this coming June 12 as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) conducts the Kalayaan Job Fair at the Tacloban Convention Center from 9:00 o’clock in the morning until 5:00 o’clock in the afternoon.

Interested applicants can take advantage of the rare opportunity where over 12,000 job vacancies both local and overseas are available.

A copy of a press statement released by DOLE-8 administrative officer-V, Virgilio Doroja, stated that the jobs fair is one of the activities of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in support to the 119th Philippine Independence Day celebration anchored on the theme ―Kalayaan 2017: Pagbabagong Sama-samang Balikatin.

Labor regional director Joel M. Gonzales said 25 local employers and four overseas recruitment agencies will participate in the jobs fair.

Of the 25 local employers, 3,991 local job vacancies are available as cashiers, sales associate or assistants, engineers, chemists, accountants, electricians, production operators, utility workers, collection & credit supervisors, HR supervisors, bus conductors, drivers, mechanics and customer service representatives or agents.

Meanwhile, 8,143 job orders for skilled workers, health care workers, construction workers, office staff, hotel staff, electronic technicians, teachers, drivers and engineers are available for overseas employment.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the region will also participate with 281 job vacancies.

Applicants are advised to visit the Public Employment Service Office of the city government of Tacloban or DOLE regional office before that day to pre-register their skills and bring with them requirements like resume, diploma, transcript of records, employment certificates and other pertinent papers. (DOLE8/PIA8/ajc/cb)

Gov. Cadiao named new RDC 6 chair by PRRD ILOILO CITY, June 6 (PIA6) -- The long wait for the appointment of a new Regional Development Council VI (RDC VI) Chairperson is over.

08June2017 | Soft opening of the #Pintados On May 3, 2017, President Rodrigo R. Duterte #Kasadyaan Festival Park (RTR Plaza) in appointed Antique Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao as Tacloban City. (L-R) DOT-8 Director Karina Rosa Tiopes, Leyte Governor Dominic Petilla, Chairperson of the RDC VI for a term of three years which Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla and Pintados shall coincide with her term as local elective official of Foundation President Eugene Tan. Don't miss Antique. also the Grand Opening of the Festival Park on Governor Cadiao was one of two nominees for June 16. (Photo by Raul Tiozon Jr) chairpersonship from the public sector selected and endorsed by members of the Council during its organizational meeting last August 31, 2016 in Iloilo City.

She is the 11th Chairperson of the RDC VI. President Duterte has yet to appoint the next RDC VI Co-Chairperson from the private sector. National More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Regional Also CLICK Here...

Director Ro-Ann A. Bacal is the ex officio Vice Chairperson of the RDC VI.

The RDC-VI is the highest policy-making body in Western Visayas Region or Region VI. It serves as the counterpart of the NEDA Board at the sub-national level and is the primary institution which coordinates and sets the direction of all economic and social development efforts in Western Visayas.

Its membership includes the five provincial governors (Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo and Guimaras), city mayors (Iloilo City, Roxas City and Passi City), municipal mayors of provincial capitals, presidents of the Provincial League of Municipalities, regional directors of major national government agencies, private sector representatives, as well as, 4 special non-voting members.

Governor Cadiao took her oath of office before President Duterte in Malacanang Palace on June 1, 2017 and was to preside over the 2nd Quarter Regular RDC Meeting on June 9, 2017 at The Venue in San Jose, Antique.

(DRD/NEDA/PIA6)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

LGUs told to maximize use of hazards and resource maps Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, June 7 (PIA6) — ILOILO CITY, June 5 (PIA6)—The local government units here should maximize use of hazards and resource maps in their disaster risk, reduction and management plans.

DENR-6 Regional Information Officer Civil Defense Asst. Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima, said during the turn-over ceremony, that the maps are indispensable tools for government planners. ―These are solid references in the selection of evacuation centers, safe roofs, and other risk management concerns,‖ Purisima said.

The Department of Science and Technology said that there were a total of 482 printed maps distributed to provincial and municipal offices in the region under the Philippine Light Intensity Detection and Ranging Program (Phil LiDAR) implemented in collaboration

with the department, state universities and other higher education institutions. ―The maps are also critical in shepherding our integration into the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction in terms of prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, rehabilitation and recovery,‖ Purisima added.

A DOST-6 press release said the Phil LiDAR 1 Program uses cutting-edge technology which provides more detailed, up-to-date and high resolution flood hazard maps.

The Phil LiDAR 2 Program, on the other hand, features extraction to address vulnerability and supply-demand

issues of high value crops production, irrigation assessment, coastal resources, aquaculture production, forest protection and renewable energy sources mapping.

Asec. Purisima further said that the data are instrumental in identifying resources which the LGUs may take advantage of at the most basic level of governance involving disaster management.

DOST said that with the skillful use of the tools, local government units are expected to improve their level of preparedness and effective response to make their communities safe and resilient. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

DENR leads Environment Month celeb Easter Anne D. Doza NEGROS OCC., June 6 (PIA6) -- June, which is Environment Month in the Philippines, is a busy month for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, particularly the DENR-Negros Island Region as it leads six important events, all for environment protection and sustainable development.

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mong the lined-up schedules aside from the Philippine Environment Month, include, the Philippine Eagle Week on June 4-10, the World Environment Day on June 5, the World Ocean’s Day on June 8 and the department’s founding anniversary on June 10 and the Philippine Arbor Day on June 25.

The local version of the World Environment Day has the theme, ―Connecting People to Nature‖ seeks to encourage people to go outdoors, appreciate the beauty and importance of nature and take active part in the call to protect nature.

Related to the theme, it also aims to add consciousness to the relationship of people with

nature, underscoring the connectivity and dependency of human on nature in many ways.

DENR-NIR regional director Livino Duran during a press conference in time for the celebration of World Environment Day said, with the activities, we wanted to impart the beauty of our environment through different activities. ―We really want to encourage the love of nature. Responsible actions toward nature come from the individual appreciation of nature,‖ Duran said during the press conference.

According to Duran, they are also crafting various strategies on how to achieve appreciation and love of nature by exposing the DENR personnel

to different nature appreciation trips, encouraging participation of citizen scientists who are mostly students, form partnerships and fora with the different government agencies and local government units and hold discussions with environmental advocates especially those with influence on decision making.

Local government units like Kabankalan, BAgo, Cadiz, among others also have different lined up activities for the month-long celebration.

The celebration of the Philippine Environment Month is according to the Presidential Proclamation No. 237 signed in 1988 by then President Corazon Aquino. *(JCM/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

BFAR says coastal waters now red tide-free Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, June 7 (PIA6) -- Latest laboratory results of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and local government units showed that shellfishes collected in all coastal waters monitored throughout the country are now free of red tide toxins.

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his finding is based on Shellfish Bulletin No. 17 Series of 2017 and dated 26 May 2017.

In Aklan, coastal waters regularly monitored by the BFAR are in Batan Bay and its tributaries in Aklan like Altavas, Batan and New Washington, and in Barangays Mambuquiao and Camanci in Batan, Aklan, facing Sapian Bay in Capiz.

With this clearance from BFAR, all types of shellfish gathered from the monitored coastal areas are now safe to gather, market and eat.

Acetes sp. or alamang from the declared red-tide free areas is now safe to eat.

Shellfish Bulletin No. 17, which was signed by Eduardo B. Gongona, Undersecretary for Fisheries,

DA/Director, BFAR, stated that coastal waters throughout the country now free from toxic red tides include the ones in Cavite, Las Pinas, Paranaque, Navotas, Bulacan, and Bataan (Mariveles, Limay, Orion, Pilar, Balanga, Orani, Abucay abd Samal) in Manila Bay; Alaminos, Sual and Wawa, Bani in Pangasinan; Masinloc Bay in Zambales; Milagros and Mandaon in Masbate; Juag Lagoon in Matnog and sorsogon Bay in Sorsogon; Honda and Puerto Prinsesa Bays in Puerto Prinsesa City and Inner Malampaya Sound in Taytay, Palawan.

Red tide-free too are the coastal waters of Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar, Cambatutay, Maqueda, Irong-Irong, Villareal Bays and Daram Island in Western Samar; San Pedro, Carigara and Cancabato Bays in Tacloban City and coastal waters

of Calubian and Leyte in Leyte; coastal waters of Biliran Province, Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur; Tantanang Bay in Zamboanga Sibugay; Murcielagos Bay in Zamboanga del Norte abd Misamis Occidental; Taguinos Lagoon in Benoni, Mahinog, Camiguin Island; Balite Bay in Mati, Davao, Oriental, and Hinatuan, Bislig and Lianga Bays in Surigao del Sur. In Panay, other coastal waters cleared from red tide toxins are in Gigantes Island in Carles, Iloilo; Pilar, Panay, President Roxas, Roxas City in Capiz and Sapian Bay (Ivisan and Sapian) in Capiz.

The last coastal waters to be declared red tide-free by the BFAR are in Bolinao and Anda in Pangasinan contained in Shellfish Bulletin No. 17.

(JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)

WESTERN VISAYAS

June 12—Philippine Independence Day

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PIA rolls out info kiosks in Iloilo Lilibeth A. French

ILOILO CITY, June 7 (PIA6) - - A kiosk that makes available information materials on Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and from national government agencies and local government units has been installed by the Philippine Information Agency-Iloilo at the Lapuz Ferry Terminal here.

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IA-Iloilo Manager Elsa Subong said the kiosk provides passengers that pass through the terminal for Bacolod and Negros Occidental, some en route to Negros Oriental, Cebu and Mindanao access to such informational materials, flyers and video presentations on ASEAN. ―The installation of the kiosks is part of our information and communication activities to keep our people aware and informed about ASEAN, its benefits and its ongoing events in the country,‖ said Subong.

Philippines took the helm of the ASEAN Chairmanship this year with the theme ―Partnering for Change Engaging the World‖ reflecting the government’s advocacy to promote unity with and among ASEAN member states and its global partners.

Subong said PIA-Iloilo has partnered with the Philippine Ports Authority 6 in the putting up of the information kiosk at the Lapuz Ferry Terminal which will be available until Friday, June 9.

Earlier, the Iloilo provincial government also allowed the putting up of the kiosk at the Capitol lobby and the management of City Mall at the Iloilo Ferry Terminal in Parola.

Subong said there are plans to bring the kiosk in the different towns of the province. There was already an initial coordination with the local government unit of Leganes through their Municipal Tourism Officer for the installation of the kiosk at the Leganes Municipal Hall on July 25 to 31.

To further increase awareness of Ilonggos on ASEAN, PIA-Iloilo will also conduct other IEC activities that include Barangay Fora, multi-sectoral

forum, briefings, and focus group discussion in the city and province of Iloilo as well as in the province of Guimaras.

Subong said coordination has already been made with Punong Barangay Rene Firmeza of Brgy, Caingin, Lapaz for the conduct of the Barangay Fora on June 15 to be participated in by barangay officials, representatives from schools, religious organizations, non-government organizations and government offices in the area.

On the other hand, some 12 local officials from selected barangays in this city are the target participants for the FGD set on June 19.

Aside from ASEAN, Subong said the Freedom of Information, another priority policy of the current administration, will also be tackled in the fora. (JCM/ laf/PIA6-Iloilo)

Residents urged to initiate cleanup drive Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique, June 6 (PIA6) - - - DENR and the local officials collectively call on the local residents to initiate the clean up to ensuring protection and conservation of Mother Earth during the launching program of Environment Month in Antique.

PENRO Ruel Delos Reyes emphasized the link of people to nature as stipulated in the theme of this year’s Environment Month celebration ―Connecting people with Nature.‖ Speaking before DENR employees, stakeholders and Barangay officials at Malandog-Maybato bridge San Jose, Delos Reyes echoed the call of DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu to focus the attention on the protection and conservation of the environment, the land, air and water.

This means putting emphasis on the implementation of the Clean Air Act, Ecological Solid Waste Management Act and Department Order on Water Cleanup among other Environmental Laws.

He particularly cited the cleanup and conservation of Malandog River to bring back its pristine state and to keep its cultural significance and importance to livelihood of the people.

Residents along the river and its tributaries upstream should do their role in managing their own garbage, he said.

SB Member Dante Beriong of San Jose likewise underscored the vital participation of the community residents in managing their own waste to attain a clean environment. ―What we need is a change in attitude towards cleaning our environment. If we do the cleanup now while others do not, then we will end up cleaning the waste of other people,‖ he said.

We need to change our behavior and manage our own waste. Though our response to clean Malandog-Maybato River is already reactive, we hope to get a fresh start with the support of various stakeholders.

We hope that the generators of waste along the river will stop their old practice and join in the cleanup drive, Beriong said.

In April this year, Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) had forged partnership with LGU San Jose and other stakeholders fr om th e pri va te s e ctor un de r the Adopt-an-Estero Project to formalize the collaborative effort to clean and restore Malandog River. (JCM/PSM/PIA6Antique)

LTO assures efficient service Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, June 6 (PIA6) – The Land Transportation Office vows for an efficient delivery of public service.

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oxas City LTO head Jose Degollado Jr. said that they are stepping up their efforts to cater to the needs of their clients who are transacting with their office.

Degollado, who is back to the Capiz LTO office, after his assignment at the LTO Regional Office 6, said that more than a hundred individuals are being attended by their Office daily, most of whom are for licensing transactions.

According to him, they have more than 50 student permit applicants daily, an average of 30 applicants for the license renewal and about 35 applicants for the professional driver’s license examination. ―This is aside from those who are doing transactions for their renewal of vehicle registration,‖ he said.

Degollado said that he is pushing for the

conduct of a briefing or orientation for those who are applying for a student’s license to ensure that these applicants understand the rules as well as the responsibilities of being issued such license.

Meanwhile, he revealed that they have already started the processing of the 5-year validity of driver’s licenses. However, they still have not issued driver’s license card relative to the said new directive. (JCM/JBG/PIA6)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

PIA Cebu to launch Info Kiosk at Cebu port terminal Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, May 30 (PIA) — The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Cebu Information Center will launch an Information Kiosk at Terminal 1, the busiest port terminal in Cebu Province.

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he PIA Information Kiosk is the seventh in the whole of Central Visayas launched for this year 2017.

Provided in the kiosk are information materials about the country’s hosting of the Association of South East Asian Nation’s meeting, its chairmanship and the organization’s 50th founding anniversary.

It also has a monitor where audio visual presentations (AVP) of ASEAN and local tourism videos will be shown.

There are also materials from the different

localities of Cebu as well as government programs from the various line agencies.

Gracing the affair is Cebu City Vice Mayor Edgardo Labella and Oscar Lopez, the Operations Port Manager of Cebu Port Authority (CPA).

PIA7 Officer in Charge Regional Director Fayette Rinen will give an overview of the importance of the information kiosk.

The newly organized Cebu City Childrens Chorale and Dance Troupe will perform an Asian theme dance number within the program.

CPA had agreed to have the PIA Information Kiosk until the end of December this year.

Following the launching is the conduct of "Ugnayan : A Dialogue for Progress" at the Central Command.

Cebu Port Terminal 1 is the most crowded port in the province. It has an outbound traffic of 8,000 to 10,000 daily.

After the port, PIA Cebu is set to launch in June another information kiosk at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. (fcc/PIA7-Cebu)

Siquijor generally peaceful – PNP Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR, May 30 (PIA) -- Siquijor province is generally peaceful but we continue to be on full alert and be on guard to secure the island from possible intrusion of terrorist groups, according to Siquijor Police Provincial Office Director Erson Udal Digal in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) here.

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igal said the whole PNP command Division are directed to conduct prophylactic i s on fu l l a l er t s ta tu s w i th p a tr o l a n d o p e r a ti o n s i n s h o r e l i n e s security operations and preparations in particularly in San Juan, Lazi, Maria and Enrique place.

Villanueva towns to secure the locals and the Municipal chiefs of police are directed visitors. to conduct twice-a-day checkpoints in their On terrorism threats, the provincial director areas of responsibilities while the Regional said ―they are always there‖ so that they are directed Public Safety Platoon and the 47th Infanrty by the central command to tighten security

operations in provinces.

As of press time, Digal has called for a joint public safety and security meeting with the Philippine Army, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to discuss security operations particularly the conduct of checkpoints in every town and inside the port areas. (rac/PIA7-Siquijor)

Former DOE chief predicts success of Pamilacan solar project Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, May 22 (PIA) -- Former Department of Energy (DOE) Renewable Energy Management Bureau chief Jesus Layug Jr. predicts the success of Pamilacan Island's solar power.

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peaking during the turnover of the P10 million energy power to serve eight more hours of daytime requirements for the 329 households in this green tourism island, Layug recounts that projects without the community owning it is doomed to fail from the start.

But, change has come in Pamilacan through WeGen Distributed Energy Philippines.

A new player in clean energy development in the country, WeGen donated P10 million worth of facilities that would bring additional eight hours of power to residents in an off the grid island in Bohol.

And while private companies would call this a part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) WeGen calls it corporate social immersion.

Chief Executive Officer Atty. Julito Sarmiento said WeGen, who need not make a profit to start a project, said all they need is for the community to put up the effort to own the project.

And the community has over P10 million reasons to do so, said Pamilacan Barangay Chairman Crispo Valeroso.

WeGen's P10 million solar energy facility comprises of 135 photo voltaic panels, 60 power

storage batteries, inverters, coils of networking wires, metal purlins and construction materials to retrofit the roof of the Pamilacan National High School for the panels to be attached.

All of the hardwork from the loading of the panels, batteries and the construction materials to the hilltop location of the school from the bocks entail labor components which the community puts up, Valeroso said.

Put in Pamilacan, the solar energy capable of producing 39KW peak of solar photo voltaic energy is practically a zero maintenance free source, according to WeGen Philippines.

"Compared to a coal fired plant which has moving parts, a solar facility does not even need much maintenance other than battery replacement after 6 years," Sarmiento said.

Set up to complement the power supply served by the island's diesel generator component of the Small Power Utility Group (SPUG) which provides power from 6PM to midnight, the new facility allows power use from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This is enough for teachers to supplement their classes with video presentations, while fishermen can

have their daily catch refrigerated and the Barangay Health Center can now keep vaccines in cold storage, WeGen added.

While Pamilacan collects P18.00 per kilowatt of diesel generated power service, residents who have worked to keep the project have greed to contribute to a solar trust fund to be collected by their local Electric Cooperative Association (ECA).

Although WeGen did not ask for it, residents said they are putting up the fund for repair, maintenance and other future expansions.

This is an indicator that the community, which have become not just consumers but producers of energy through the facility, now owns the project, and Layug's prediction may have some truth in it.

By future expansions, the ECA plans to get more solar panels to increase capacities and get the solar service working from midnight onwards.

While power use at night is more extensive, complementing the diesel power generator between midnight to morning where usage is also limited my ease the islanders' inconvenience and usher to them decent lives. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

June 12—Philippine Independence Day

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Bohol readies for movie hub dream in the region Rey Anthony H. Chiu

TAGBILARAN CITY, May 29 (PIA) — Good things start to fall into place for Bohol as officials attempt to splice the local creative industries to the country’s mainstream theatre and film.

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group of theatre acting experts from the Cultural Center of the Phlippines’ (CCP) Tanghalang Pilipino, led by theatre director Fernando Josef and actors Monique Nellas and Marco Viana arrived here to conduct an acting workshop.

The workshop held recently at the Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School for members of Bohol theatre ensembles according to Kasing Sining Creative Director and Bohol cultural icon Lutgardo Labad.

Kasing sining, an aggrupation of local theatre artists and theatre groups, has consistently spearheaded innovations in arts and culture as well as cultural education and capability building for local theatre groups.

Theater workers here see the coming of Tanghalang Pilipino, a premier theatre company, as a huge step in Bohol’s bid to finally establish the first steps in its effort to present Bohol as a filming capital in the region.

This year, with the Film Development Council

of the Philippines (FDCP), Bohol established the Bohol Film Commission.

The Bohol Film Commission is now mandated to draft the development of local films, prepare to patch Bohol into the mainstreams of the country’s film making industry and present the province as an alternative film location.

In the past, Bohol has provided locations for films like Lagablab sa Maribojoc, Muro-Ami, Panaghoy sa Suba as wll as international films like Tiger Shark, Dark Tide and Moby Dick (portions of which have been clips from Pamilacan).

Boholano officials insist that bringing local and international film companies to shoot in Bohol allows the tourism province free tourism promotions.

In similar development, FDCP through Liza Diño Seguerra hinted a plan to set up a Philippine Cinematheque, which is a vital part of the Sineng Pambansa or National Cinema program as a venue for the promotion of local and international films.

The cinema is part of the FCDP mission to

"bring Filipino films to Filipinos," Diño said.

The Cinematheque was designed, and is destined to be, an alternative and accessible venue for classic and contemporary Filipino films, both mainstream and independent, Dino explained.

It can also be a local venue for state-of-the-art foreign films sourced through the FDCP's Film Cultural Exchange Program with other countries.

The FDCP Cinematheque would also provide venue for workshops and symposiums on directing, scriptwriting, editing, cinematography, and all other aspects of filmmaking, according to Diño.

The Cinematheque would be a fully-funded government project that would include a theatre, conference rooms, admin and technical offices and film library with complimentary staff.

As Bohol counterpart, the government would only need a strategically located lot to build the film center.

The provincial government is expected to make the arrangements to the FDCP for the realization of the project. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

Dumanjug town receives P16M Kalahi-CIDSS for 9 brgys Juju Empuerto CEBU CITY, May 26 (PIA) --- The Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) granted P16,363,900 to nine barangays of the Municipality of Dumanjug, Cebu, according to Venice Polancos, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) Social Marketing Officer for Kalahi CIDSS-NCDDP.

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olancos said the nine barangays were identified through the process of the Municipal Inter-Barangay Forum Participatory Resource Allocation (MIBF-PRA) where each of the 37 barangays of Dumanjug presented its proposed sub-project identified by the community.

The community would have to get votes from other barangays to be prioritized.

The MIBF-PRA is the process of Kalahi-CIDSS, one of the programs of DSWD where the

community is given the chance to decide and to vote depending on the needs presented by the community, added Polancos.

The program aims to empower ordinary people giving them opportunities to identify and decide a solution to the community’s needs, improved access to services and improve local governance by participating in the planning and implementation and disaster risk reduction management.

The nine barangays will divide the community

grant of P16,363,900 from World Bank through the Kalahi-CIDSS. Out of the nine barangays only Barangay Kolabtingon proposed for a 55 Linear Meter of Footbridge and the eight barangays (Kambanog, Kabatbatan, Doldol, Matalao, Kabalaasnan, Bullogan, Masa and Poblacion Central) proposed for concreting of access roads, said the social welfare and development officer. (jsme/PIA-7-Cebu/ DSWD-FO7)

DSWD empowers 60 PWDs through AVRC II Juju Empuerto CEBU CITY, May 26 (PIA) --- About 60 persons with disabilities (PWD) graduated from the technical vocational program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Office (DSWD-7) through the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center II (AVRC II), said Leah Quintana, DSWD-FO7 Regional Information Officer.

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ccording to Quintana, this is AVRC’s 41st commencement ceremony. ―The success of these graduates would not be possible if they were alone. Therefore, I am thankful to the parents who trusted AVRC II that you allowed your wife, husband, son to come here,‖ said DSWD-7 Regional Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre in her message to the graduates.

According to Quintana, the 60 graduates took different courses in technical vocational program.

Among the 60 PWDs,30 finished Massage Therapy, four also finished Consumer Electronics, one completed Furniture and Cabinet Making, eight also completed Commercial Cooking, eight graduated Basic Cosmetology, two also graduated Dress and Apparel Technology and seven finished Computer

Technology.

During the said commencement ceremony, the 21 licensure examinee passers in the Massage Therapy Licensure Examination of DOH were also recognized by DSWD. The licensed masseuse and masseurs belong to the January-June and July- December 2016 batches of trainees. ―Kinahanglan gayud ninyo i-prubar nga PWD’s dili angay ang kaluy-an kay pariahs ra tang tanan dunay tagsa-tagsang abilidad u gka-alam nga gipahulam sa Ginoo (You have to prove that PWDs doesn’t deserve pity because we are just the same. Each of us has unique ability and has knowledge that God has given us),‖ Macapobre said.

The AVRC II offers various courses for PWD’s

like Massage Therapy, Consumer Electronics, Furniture and Cabinet Making, Commercial Cooking, Cosmetology, Dress and Apparel Technology and Computer Technology.

AVRC II based in Brgy. Labangon, Cebu City is the second accredited training institution for massage therapy in the Visayas and first of the four vocational rehabilitation centers to be accredited as training institution nationwide.

The Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center II (AVRC II) is non-residential institution that provides enabling environment for the Persons with Disabilities (PWD’s) and other special groups in honing and training them to acquire skills and competencies and be deployed in descent careers. (jsme/PIA-7-Cebu/DSWD-FO7)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

72 surrenderers finish 6-month PRRD drug rehab program Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, June 7 (PIA) - Change has come, indeed, for the six dozen self-confessed drug personalities in this city, about half-a-dozen of them ladies, who had voluntarily surrendered to police authorities at the height of Oplan Tokhang.

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n a Moving On Ceremony subtitled ―Lakas ng Pagbabago‖ held May 27 at the Cathedral parish center, a total of 72 individuals received their certificates attesting completion of the Project Renewal and Recovery from Drugs (PRRDD), a six-month community-based rehabilitation program began in November, 2016.

They included 42 individuals from the host Assumption parish, 15 from Ibarra parish, and another 15 from San Rafael parish.

Handing over their papers were City Vice-Mayor Maloney Samaco, Panny Sy, president of the Southern Leyte chamber of commerce

and proprietor of Panny’s Homebake products, Dr. Jerome Paler of GK and prime mover of PRRD, representatives of offices such as DOH, Tesda, DepEd, DTI, among others, and some Punong Barangays.

Paler announced earlier during the brief program that the original list contained 150 persons due for enrollment in the program, in which they were called ―aspirants,‖ not drug surrenderers, but along the way many had dropped off with the usual wait-and-see attitude.

The successful aspirants - a term that started in the city but now became generic in drug-related

programs nationwide - are now referred to as ―allegiance‖ for religiously attending the weekend sessions for six months.

They have also been tested negative during surprise drug tests conducted every now and then while PRRD was ongoing, Paler informed.

In a follow-up interview by phone at the dydm kapihan sa PIA Friday, Paler said that many allegiance had passed the Tesda-generated trainings and matching tests, while there were also those assured of hiring at the offices of DPWH, DSWD, city hall, and the provincial government. (ajc/mmp/ PIA8-Southern Leyte)

Samar islanders to get solar drier plus Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, June 8 (PIA) - To boost the productivity of Rama Fishing Solar Drier Association, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 8 will turn-over solar drier plus other equipment to Barangay Rama on Friday.

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n an interview, Provincial Fishery Officer Rolando Ay-ay said that the islanders will get a building to be used as cleaning and packaging shed with water tank.

The association members will also get solar

fishing drying facilities (land based and floating), two units stand alone fish stalls, one unit 29 cu ft chest freezer, one unit solar panel and one unit vacuum sealer.

Barangay Rama, located an hour boat trip

from Catbalogan City supplies dried fish in the mainland.

The new equipment will ensure the availability of dried fish even during rainy days. (ajc/nbq/ PIA8-Samar)

Feature: Meet Catbalogan’s centenarians Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, June 7 (PIA) - Like other places in the country, Catbalogan City takes pride in presenting its own breed of three centenarians.

Lolo Jose Lolo Jose Cabarles, 103 is an SSS pensioner, a privilege he got from working at the Bagacay Mines in his more productive years. He had 12 offspring, all of them gainfully employed and two have now migrated to the Unites States of America.

Cabarles is not choosy with food, he eats what he likes to eat though in moderation. But his apo is proud to say that Lolo Jose does not smoke.

Presently, Lolo Jose looks well and does not even take maintenance meds. Because he has his pension and his kids support, he stashed his hundred grand in the bank. He gets forgetful sometimes but with his age, why not?

Lola Fernanda

These are taking good care of their Lola Fernanda because her only son has gone ahead of her to join His Maker. Lola Fernanda like Lolo Jose does not take any medicine at all. She uses herbs and medicinal roots for every ailment, her apo testified that it always works for his Lola Fernanda.

This Lola shuns the hospital, like when she got ill, she refused to be taken to the hospital. She just stayed in her room and ordered a dozen herbs or so, some boiled which she would drink while some she would apply all over her body.

They were then worried she would die, but after her fasting days, they were just surprised when she asked: Dire ba ak niyo pakakaunon? (Are u not going to feed me?)

Lolo Roberto Meala The best hilot/ manaram in her younger days, Lola Fernanda Mabansag, 102 years old is now In his residence at Barangay Socorro, a patient suffering from poor sight and hearing. But she still is waiting for Lolo Roberto. At his age 107, Lolo manages to do bathroom duties unattended.

Roberto still can perform ―hilot duties‖.

Fernanda bore an only son, but this child in He has two children who take turns in caring turn gave her 13 grandchildren. for the centenarian. At his age he seems oblivious of

his surroundings like when Mayor Stephany Uy-Tan personally delivered his P100 thousand grant. His kin were joking that she should have a selfie with the young and gorgeous mayor, he seemed passive then, just submitting to the guests’ wishes. But with his hilot skills, Lolo Roberto is always in his best element.

His diet consists of whatever meagre meals his children can afford, mostly fish and veggies. Like Lola Fernanda, Lolo Roberto can still do his bathroom rituals unattended. His grandkid just makes sure he has water and soap when he feels like bathing.

More benefits The three centenarians have all received their P100 thousand grant from the national government though the DSWD, and there is a pending resolution from the Catbalogan City government to grant them some P20 thousand cash for their contribution to the city and for inspiring the younger generation to stay alive until they get to be a hundred. (ajc/nbq/PIA -8 with reports from Jun Arceno)

EASTERN VISAYAS

June 12—Philippine Independence Day

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Samar LGUs get new high powered patrol boats Ninfa B Quirante

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, June 8 (PIA) - Authorities enforcing fishery laws will now be able to do their duties more effectively with the provision of new fiberglass boats with high powered engines.

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he regional Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR-8) turned over the boats to LGU law enforcers to intensify sea patrol operations against violators of fishery laws in Samar Sea and Maqueda Bay. The patrol boats have 30 footer engine with 16 horsepower provided by the fisheries office.

The LGUs will shoulder the outriggers and

maintenance of the fishing vessel.

Fishery Law Enforcers were trained last month for the needed skills and empowerment. Trained enforcers come from the LGUs of Almagro, San Sebastian, Tarangnan, Pinabacdao, Hinabangan, Tagapul-an, Almagro, Daram, Zumarraga, among others, according to Provincial Fishery Officer Rolando Ay-ay.

BFAR regional director Visa Tan Dimerin urged the recipients to help them enforce fishery laws for a more sustainable Samar Sea. The provincial government with Gov Sharee Ann Tan who was present during the turn-over ceremony provided food and venue for the training of fishery law enforcers deputized by BFAR. (ajc/nbq/ PIA8-Samar with report from Jun Arceno)

DOLE-8 commends 4 SPES students who graduated college with academic awards Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 7 (PIA) - Four student beneficiaries of the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in the region finished college with academic awards.

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copy of a press release sent to Philippine Information Agency by DOLE-8 administrative officer V Virgilio Doroja stated that the four SPES babies who all came from Southern Leyte have availed of the program since 2013 until 2016.

The academic awardees were identified as Reymond C. Francisco who graduated magna cum laude at Southern Leyte State University Tomas Oppus Campus with a degree of Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics.

Francisco expressed his heartfelt thanks to

DOLE for being an instrument in the realization of his dream despite the hardships in life. ―Were it not for the SPES I might have quit college because I could hardly pay for the school expenses and projects,‖ Francisco said.

The other three who graduated cum laude in their respective degrees are Precy G. Maraon, Angel Marie Anib and Theresa Aloro.

Labor regional director Joel M. Gonzales commended the four awardees saying the academic performance of the SPES beneficiaries will serve as an inspiration to young students

to strive hard in their studies and persevere because no matter how difficult life is, triumph awaits them. ―The success story of our SPES babies is also a motivation for us in the DOLE to implement the program more meaningfully and be able to reach more poor but deserving students, and create an impact into their lives,‖ Gonzales said.

For this year, a total of Php24 million funds were allocated by DOLE-8 for 7,134 youth beneficiaries under the SPES program in the region.

(DOLE8/PIA8-ajc/cba)

TESDA school to be established in Naval Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran, June 8 (PIA) – Due to the distance of the lone government vocational-technical school from its clients, the lawmaker of the Lone Congressional District in Biliran proposed for its establishment in Naval, the capital town of Biliran province.

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I already proposed the establishment of TESDA school in Naval in one of the meetings of the committee on higher education in which I am a member,‖ Biliran Congressman Rogelio J. Espina said in his message.

The congressman together with TESDA 8 Regional Director Cleta M. Omega and the regional Bureau of Jail Management and Penolgy (BJMP-8) Assistant Regional Director Manuel O. Chan graced the graduation rites of some 22 jail inmates and four jail officers of the BJMP in June 5.

Espina added that a 5,000 to 10,000 square meter lot is allocated by the provincial government of Biliran through Biliran governor Gerardo J. Espina, Jr. in a provincial government-owned lot in Barangay Larrazabal, this town. ―An agreement on the funding source for the establishment of TESDA school in Naval can be sourced from my office, that of the Biliran provincial government from LGU-Naval or from TESDA,‖ Espina added.

Espina, who considered gracing the TESDA graduation rites as his first activity after the recess of

Congress, hopes that his bill to establish a TESDA school in Naval will be approved in Congress and Senate and will be signed by the President before he will end his term.

He also lauded TESDA and BJMP for undertaking positive action in helping inmates to get more learning for livelihood which they can use after they go out of prison.

TESDA also provided training course on Electrical Wiring Installation NC II to inmates of BJMP-Naval District Jail last year. (ajc/FJ/rvictoria/ PIA8-Biliran)

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

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Ms. Fayette C. Riñen OIC - 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. Bañares 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