One visayas enewsletter vol 7 issue 12 20170324 r6

Vol 7

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Issue 12

In this Issue

EU, UNDP, KOICA turnover disaster resilient projects to EV Yolanda-affected Consuelo B. Alarcon

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 18 (PIA) – A number of disaster -resilient infrastructure projects were formally turned over in a 3-day mission of the officials and representatives of the European Union, the WESTERN VISAYAS United Nations Development Programme and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to seven local government units in Eastern Visayas and their beneficiaries.

This, as the Haiyan response nears to end its project recovery mission in Yolanda-affected communities in the region.

NDP Deputy Country Director Enrico Gaveglia said ―we are pleased to support the continued recovery of Yolanda-affected communities. It is a long process for development to take place but with our collective efforts we are helping to ensure a safer and resilient future for the communities.‖ PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar (2nd from L) To date, almost seventy percent of the projects are completed answers queries from members of the local and the Haiyan response activities will end by the middle of this year. media during the 2017 ASEAN-PCOO Infra projects that were turned over recently were the 165 roadshow held March 24 in Bacolod City. (PIA permanent housing units for Yolanda survivors in Sagkahan Tacloban 6/LTP) which were transferred to Cabalawan resettlement site and in the municipalities of Hernani Eastern Samar and Basey, Samar.

Other EU-UNDP projects are the community-based coastal resource management center in Palo; the multi-use training center in Tacloban; both in Leyte and the community evacuation centers in Basey Samar and in Balangkayan, Hernani, Quinapondan, all in Eastern Samar.

In addition, Shin Myung Seop, KOICA and UNDP country director, traveled to the region Friday to witness the handover

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

March 20 - 26, 2017

ceremony of Guiuan Ecowaste Management Center to the local government unit of Guiuan represented by Mayor Christopher Sheen P. Gonzales. KOICA has provided financial assistance to UNDP for the improvement of the waste management system in the municipality of Guiuan E. Samar.

Two waste management projects that were implemented by UNDP in Guiuan Eastern Samar amounting to P5, 600, 938 are the materials recovery facility (MRF) and the eco waste management center designed to help diminish the negative impacts of improper waste disposal to the health of the people as well as the environment.

The project will help the local government unit of Guiuan to comply with the provisions of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 otherwise known as Republic Act 9003.

The UNDP and the European Union have worked with various local government units in the region which were severely affected by typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) for Project Recovery: three in Leyte (Tacloban, Palo and Ormoc); four in Biliran province (Biliran, Caibiran, Cabucgayan and Naval); and eight in Eastern Samar (Balangkayan, Giporlos, Guiuan, Hernani, Lawaan, Mercedes, Quinapondan and Salcedo) and in Basey Samar.

The construction of disaster-resilient infrastructure is part of the EU’s package of assistance delivered through UNDP’s project recovery in order to help Yolanda-affected families build back better more than three years since the super typhoon devastated most parts of the region. (ajc/cba/PIA8)

KumpaS Barangay brings residents' concerns to the government PIA 6

BACOLOD CITY, March 25 (PIA6)—The first ever barangay would get a higher take-home pay. interaction program of the Duterte administration, ―KumpaS Barangay,‖ For the senior citizen sector, Felipa Esmena asked if all indigent was recently held at Brgy. Singcang-Airport as barangay folks aired their senior citizens could avail of the social pension. Sec. Andanar said senior appeals and concerns to President Rodrigo Duterte through Presidential citizens could receive social pension under the DSWD program but Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Sec. Martin Andanar. subject to certain conditions. A DSWD representative clarified that not Through the "KumpaS Barangay,‖ the PCOO hopes to provide a all senior citizens would be able to receive the social pension due to the venue for discussion and for a PCOO that builds an informed and limited budget. Thus, the agency has to prioritize the poorest of the poor empowered citizenry. Sec. Andanar stressed to the barangay residents and those who need it most. that as head of the PCOO, his work is to be the messenger of the people Priscilla Goco from the labor sector, asked what the solution of to the President and of the President to the people. the President was on ending contractualization. According to Sec. AnBarangay Singcang, the site of the pilot KumpaS Barangay is one of danar, the solution is to do it one step at a time and cautioned against Participants light the Earth Hour 2017 candles forming the 60 + symbol at Plaza Independencia, the biggest barangays of Bacolod city with a total of 32 puroks and 4 rushing the process. This process includes a thorough study on the zones. matter – identifying who among the workers could qualify for it and Cebu City, March 25. (PIA Cebu) Five main concerns eventually crafting a labor law on the matter.

Five main concerns from the different sectors of the barangay Reactions were brought to the attention of the President: livelihood for those who According to PIA Deputy Director-General Angelo Villar, the quit drugs; shift to the federal form of government; better salaries for PCOO secretary was very happy with the result of the pilot "KumpaS." teachers and lesser taxes; social pension for all indigent senior citizens; A resident summed up the dialogue as "unexpected but most and the end of contractualization. welcome.‖ On livelihood opportunities for drug surrenderers, Sec. Andanar During the activity, the Secretary was joined by Bacolod City shared to Brgy. Tanod Joenick Francisco the available programs from the Mayor Evelio Leonardia, Bacolod Rep. Greg Gasataya, Brgy. Capt. Rosinie government, from the LGUs to various national agencies such as DSWD. Distrito and heads of the different attached agencies of the PCOO. (JCM/ The National Drug Rehabilitation Program also offers livelihood for drug Lljr-PIA6) More on Region 7, pages 4-5. dependents who want to reform their lives.

A Department of Trade and Industry official present also invited the surrenderers and the audience to take part in their entrepreneurship Also CLICK Here… course if they want to jumpstart a business.

On another matter, Sec. Andanar also told Albert Posel from the youth sector that the shift to the federal form of government would EASTERN VISAYAS depend on congressional action.

On the query of Noemi Canja, a school principal, regarding the increased salary of teachers and payment of lesser taxes, the Secretary said that the entry pay of public school teachers is now around P19,000 plus emergency cost of living allowance while a Master Teacher IV receives P43,000 plus bonuses, productivity allowance, cash allowance, PCOO Sec.Martin Andanar listens to the problems of ordinary clothing allowance, among others.

However, he noted that there is a pending bill in Congress which citizens of Brgy. Singcang-Airport, Bacolod City during the KumpaS will review the current tax system and its tax rates so that the taxpayers Brgy., (Hinun-anon sa Barangay), held March 24, 2017. (PIA 6/EJB)

Philippine Information Agency 8 OIC regional director Alicia Nicart underscores the big importance of water to people during her welcome message in today’s #WorldWaterDay forum spearheaded by the Leyte Metropolitan Water District held at the Ritz Tower de Leyte, Tacloban City. (Raul S. Tiozon, Jr.) #WaterIsLife

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

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DOH-7 to women: Prioritize your health Amor Y. Saludar CENTRAL VISAYAS, March 21 (PIA) – In line with the celebration of March as Women's Month, the Department of Health (DOH) here reminded women to also give time for themselves and prioritize their health.

In a recent Association of Government Information Officers-Philippine Information Agency (AGIO-PIA 7) Forum, Dr. Annessa Patindol Medical Officer III of DOH-7 said that despite being busy in the house taking care of the welfare of the family, women should also take time to consider their health condition. ―Please prioritize your health, give time for yourself and seek medical consultation,‖ Patindol said.

Patindol added that women should also make it a habit to regularly examine their breast five to seven days after the first day of menstruation period as this is one of the remedies seen for early detection of breast cancer which is the most common cancer cases for women worldwide.

She said that in any case during their self-examination they may find these occurrences in their breasts such as lumps in the breast area or in armpit, discharges, changes in the color of skin within breast areas, and difference of sizes of the breasts they should immediately consider medical consultation.

Patindol noted that breast cancer remains to be the most common cancer among women in which 13 of every 1,000 women are suffering from it worldwide. She then noted that although breast cancer commonly plagues women, men can also acquire breast cancer as this may occur in both men and women.

Patindol urged the public especially women to seek medical consulation and to have regularly check-up. ―What is important for cancer is really early detection,‖ Patindol stressed.

She added that here in Central Visayas, the Cebu Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center is equipped with facility that can detect breast cancer. (rmn/ays/PIA7/AGIO-PIA7 Forum)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

Roadshows to de-centralize government Easter Anne D. Doza BACOLOD CITY, March 24 (PIA6) - - The Presidential Communications Operations Office initiated roadshows are meant to de-centralize the government, bringing the Office of the President to the grassroots level.

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COO Secretary Jose Ruperto Martin M. Andanar led the PCOO officials in the roadshow who discussed the Freedom of Information, Presidential Task Force on Media Security, Freedom of Information and Social Media in participative government., and the new PIA. According to Andanar, it is not enough to depend on print, broadcast and social media, underscoring the relevance of person-to-person commun ication, thu s the con du ct o f roadshows and barangay roadshows all over the country.

About 600 multi-sectoral representatives from the academe, campus publications, national

government agencies, local government units, Bacolod Barangay officials and the media attended the 5th leg of the ASEAN-PCOO Roadshow held March 24 at the Sugarland Hotel in Bacolod City.

Meanwhile, in a press conference with private local and government media, Andanar said any support to the President is highly appreciated by the administration referring to the sugar industry for its support to President Rodrigo R. Duterte amidst call for impeachment. ―I give it to the sugar industry for the unwavering support to this administration. It looks like the industry leaders understand what the

President is doing and they know the sincerity of the President to make this country a prosperous one,‖ Andanar added.

Andanar also appealed to the Negrenses to continue to support the programs and aspirations of the President, because everything is for change for the betterment of our country and our citizenry. ―We in government as part of Duterte’s administration will keep on working, will keep on showing our actions more than our words‖ Andanar said. |―We will strive to implement the goals of the President to include peace and order, law and order, anti-corruption, and poverty alleviationz‖ the PCOO Secretary said. said.*(EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

Capiz IOs facilitate help for remote villagers Alex A. Lumaque ROXAS CITY, Capiz, 24 March (PIA6) – The Hunter troopers of the 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army through the help of some residents from a hinterland barangay of Rizal Norte in Tapaz town hauled the donations facilitated by Philippine Information Agency – Capiz Information Center and Capiz Association of Government Public Information Officers, Inc. (CAGPIO) last March 22 to Rizal Norte Primary School in Tapaz town.

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he aid composed of galvanized iron sheets and makeshift classroom materials, toys, food packs and used clothing reached the site after more than six – hour sweating trek.

It was learned that the haulers passed by the mountainous area of an adjacent Jamindan town in going to the recipient school site.

Department of Education (DepEd) – Tapaz East District supervisor Angel Payo, Ph. D. and teachers Dexter Ferasol as well as Xyric Andrade joined the uphill journey.

The initiative was an offshoot of 61IB commander Col. Leonardo I. Peña’s presentation before CAGPIO members on the various intensified peace support operations (IPSO) especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas to

compensate absence of some basic services due to accessibility issues. ―In behalf of Rizal Norte Primary School, I would like to extend my deepest sense of gratitude to the 61IB and its stakeholders for choosing our school to be the beneficiary of these goods,‖ said teacher Charlyn Geromiano during a ceremonial turnover of the donations at the battalion’s headquarters in Brgy. Lagdungan, Tapaz.

The same is also posted on the timeline of Geromano’s social networking site account, specifically citing Col. Peña and 61IB Information Officer 1Lt. Hazel Joy Durotan in her message of gratitude. ―You have added another sweetest ingredient to the lives of our pupils and surely the people of Rizal Norte, Tapaz, Capiz will always

remember you because of your generosity,‖ she added.

PIA Capiz Information Center manager Jemin Guillermo and CAGPIO president Esperedion Pelaez led in the campaign donation last December and January.

The contributions were heartily given by concerned employees of PIA, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Bureau of Fire Protection, Capiz Police Provincial Office, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, National Food Authority, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Ports Authority, Provincial Health Office, Philippine Red Cross, Provincial Population Office and local government units of Sapi-an and Pontevedra. (AAL/PIA6 Capiz)

Senior information leaders promote ASEAN’s identity Carlson B. Alelis BACOLOD CITY, Mar. 22 (PIA6) – The more than 50 delegates of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) discussed of finding ways to promote the regional bloc during its 15th Meeting of Senior Officials Responsible for Information (SOMRI) here.

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ndersecretary Noel George Puyat of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) said that as the regional bloc strives to achieve its ASEAN Vision 2025, the main objective of the meetings is to find ways to effectively communicate and promote ASEAN’s meaning and identity. ―So that our citizens not only gain awareness of our organization, but become inspired to

participate and support the community to build ASEAN that is truly people centered,‖ Puyat said during the opening of SOMRI at the SMX Convention Center.

ASEAN has three pillars, namely Political-Security, Economic and Socio-Cultural, that are developed to improve the lives of community’s citizens. ―However, the challenge is not only in activating these significant undertakings, but also, in

making sure that the people are aware of their stake in it,‖ Puyat said.

W e n e e d t o g a i n th e p u b l i c’ s attention and more importantly, their commitment, he added.

Puyat disclosed that the ASEAN Strategic Plan for Information and Media for 2016-2025 identifies the key strategies that would guide the ASEAN Member States’ cooperation in this field. (JCM/CBA/ PIA6-Negros Occidental)

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DILG pledges support to ASEAN Easter Anne D. Doza BACOLOD CITY, March 22 (PIA6) - - The Department of Interior and Local Government, through Interior Secretary Ismael ―Mike‖ Sueno pledged support to cascade a deeper level of knowledge for Association of Southeast Asian Nation among the local government units and among the Filipinos.

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ueno, in his inspirational message during the opening ceremony for the 15th Meeting of the ASEAN Senior Officials Responsible for Information at SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City said information must be part of the backbone that helps our societies move as one body.

Sueno, as head of the DILG, added that one of his priorities has been to converge all our local government units – the provinces, cities, and

municipalities including the barangays – in their work to be ―partners for change‖, a key message of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte where public information has been the anchor for communicating the efforts of the DILG’s plans and programs and issuing ordinances from the LGUs. ―There is always that motivation to keep up with the times and work effectively with partners for public information, such as the mass

media networks for radio and TV,‖ the Interior Secretary said. Sueno likewise challenged its attached agencies – the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Philippine Public Safety College and Local Government Academy – to be active in the communication network, and from this standpoint think creatively about their role in the region’s, as well as the nation’s, success.*(EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

PALARO to put Antique in sports map Vicente W. Villavert SAN JOSE, Antique March 22 (PIA) - - The province of Antique which is working hard to make sure that no stones are left unturned to ensure the success of the conduct of the 2017 Palarong Pambansa on April 23-29 ―will now earn its place in the sports map of the Philippines.‖

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We are happy that we are doing our Palaro here…. kampanteng kampante ang DepEd at nagtitiwala sa lalawigan ng Antique,‖ said DepEd Assistant Secretary Tonisito Umali during the press conference with the local media, as he emphasized that close to 12,000 to 15,000 of student athletes from elementary and secondary schools including the coaches, chaperons, technical officials, DepEd officials and LGUs from the 18 regions in the country will converge in San Jose de Buenavista.

Umali was in Antique to meet the various regional sports representatives from the 18 regions to iron out preparations for the success of the

conduct of the national sports event.

The meeting covered the concerns for the billeting areas, playing venues, food, transportation, and security preparations.

Umali said that more than P300 million was allotted for the sports event, and 89 percent of the budget will be downloaded to the regions, and for the provincial, and division needs ―para makarating ang ating mga delegasyon sa Antique.‖ The Philippine sports Commission and the Office of Senator Legarda has also committed financial assistance for the Palaro, according to Umali.

Meanwhile, Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao

said that DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones was happy to learn that the province has met the conditions and requirements set by the Palarong Pambansa Committee in terms of the billeting facilities and infrastructures. ―We are going to set a precedent because this is the first time that a small province, and practically an unknown province pushed for the hosting of the sports event which gained support from all sectors, and Secretary Briones told me that she is expecting more provinces will bid for the Palaro hosting next year, because if a small province like Antique could stage such a big sports event, then they could do it too,‖ Cadiao said. (JCM/VWV/PIA Antique)

International cruise line to build port in Aklan Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, 24 March (PIA6) -- A giant cruise company is set to build a terminal in Aklan, either in Caticlan, Malay, Aklan or in Boracay Island, with the deal recently clinched by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Province of Aklan at Fort Lauderdale, Florida, U.S.A. at the sidelines of the Seatrade Cruise Conference 2017, according to the Office of the Provincial Governor here.

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he business agreement was signed by Undersecretary Benito Bengzon, Jr. in behalf of DOT Secretary Wanda Corazon Tulfo-Teo. Present also during the signing were Aklan Governor Florencio T. Miraflores and Royal Caribbean Cruise Ltd. (RCCL) Vice President for New Commercial Development John Tercek.

The business deal with the cruise company – the Royal Caribbean Cruise Ltd., has brought excitement to the DOT and the provincial government of Aklan due to the foreseen bigger involvement of the cruise company in the

development and promotion of Caticlan/Boracay for cruise tourism.

The move is also seen to further open the Western Visayas region to the global cruising market.

The agreement among the the DOT, the RCCL and the Provincial Government of Aklan stated that the American global cruise company will be providing all necessary technical and financial support towards the building fof a purpose-built terminal either in Caticlan or Boracay.

USEC Bengzon expressed confidence that the strategic partnership will result in more ships calling

on Boracay Island and pave the way for eventual homeport operations.

For his part, Governor Miraflores said Aklanons stand to benefit from the new economic opportunities to be generated by the business deal in terms of employment and business ventures.

For the last four years, Boracay Island was able to receive 29 cruise ships, placing 3rd among the listed top cruise destinations which was led by Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan with 39 transits and 16 overnights and Manila with 48 transits and 5 overnights. (JCM/VGV PIA6 PGO Aklan)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Gender Sensitivity Training set for IOs, Media in NegOr Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, March 20 (PIA) – Some 50 members of the Association of Negros Oriental Public Information Officers (ANOPIO) and local media are expected to participate in the Gender Sensitivity Training (GST) on March 23 to 24 at Mabinay Spring here.

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he Philippine Information Agency (PIA) together with the Gender and Development (GAD) of the provincial government will lead the training to promote gender equality in the workplaces with discussions on Magna Carta of Women.

The two-day training also seeks gender sensitivity not only in the portrayal of women in

mainstream and social media but also in the private lives. The participants are expected also to produce more gender sensitive media content.

The event is part of the series of activities lined up in this year’s celebration of National Women’s Month.

GAD focal person Josie Columna of the Provincial Commission of Women is expected

to cite the significance of GAD mainstreaming in activities of the province that more initiatives in line with gender equality.

Meanwhile, Women Summit is scheduled on March 29 at the Provincial Convention Center to gather groups of women from different municipalities and cities in Negros Oriental. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

DSWD-7 implements LINGAP SA MASA program Juju Empuerto CEBU CITY, March 20 (PIA) --- More indigent Filipinos can now avail of free medicines through the Libreng Gamot Para sa Masa or LINGAP SA MASA, according to Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) Listahanan Information Officer Kerwin Macopia.

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ccording to Macopia, the free medicine assistance program is funded under President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s Socio-Civic Projects Funds and to be implemented by DSWD in partnership with a selected regional hospital.

In Region 7, DSWD-7 inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) for the provision of free medicines to indigent patients in the Central Visayas region on February 9, 2017.

The signing of MOA coincide with DSWD's 66th anniversary celebration held in SM Seaside City Cebu. ―We will set up a desk in VSMCC so that it would be easy for the patients who will be needing prescription medicines to be immediately assessed by our assigned social worker,‖ said DSWD-7 Regional Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre.

―A guarantee letter will be issued by DSWD for the purchase of medicines from hospital pharmacies or from partner drug stores,‖ Macapobre added.

Macapobre clarified that this medicine program is distinct and separate from the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS).

Target beneficiaries of this program are the following: 1. Families or individuals who are indigent, vulnerable or disadvantaged; 2. Those in the informal sector and poor based on the DSWD Listahanan; 3. Those who are in crisis situations based on assessment of social workers; 4. Government employees and contract of service workers working in the government; and 5 . B e n e f i ci a r i e s o f s o l d i e r s a n d police who were killed or wounded in the line of duty.

The ―Lingap sa Masa‖ medicine assistance program is in response to President Duterte’s directive to give indigent Filipinos access to free medicines to help them recover from their illnesses.

Requirements to avail these free medicines are: 1. Any valid ID of the patient; 2. Valid ID of the representative and a written authorization signed by the patient; 3. Doctor’s prescription issued not later than three (3) months; and 4. Proof of indigency from the Barangay or Certification issued by the medical social service of an identified hospital.

The program is initially implemented in other four regions, namely NCR, Regions 3, 6, and 11.

Once it expands, DSWD plans to make the assistance available to all regions. (rmn/jsme/ PIA7-Cebu/DSWD-7)

New roads will solve traffic problem Leandria P. Pagunsan DUMAGUETE CITY, March 20 (PIA) — To solve the current traffic congestion in Dumaguete City, the provincial and city government should consider construction of new roads according to Edward Du.

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he business sector represented by Mr. Du, president of Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce, Incorporated (NOCCI) reiterated in a recent Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting that the one-way traffic scheme implemented by the city will not actually solve the traffic problem in the city.

Du added that in a period of 5 to 6 years the traffic situation will worsen considering the increasing number of new vehicles coming in from various vehicle dealers in Dumaguete City.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) can attest to that with the bulk of new vehicle registration being processed every day in their office, says Du. When the traffic situation gets heavier

people are prone to accidents that can worsen the peace and order situation in the city.

PPOC presiding officer, Attorney Froilan Joseph Pinili however suggested to make a resolution citing the need to construct new roads, endorse the same to the provincial development council requesting for funding from the national government. (lpp/PIA7/Negros Oriental)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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DSWD-7 needs volunteers for repacking efforts Juju Empuerto CEBU CITY, March 20 (PIA) --- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) is in need of volunteers to help in the repacking of family food packs in preparation for any disaster that may happen.

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We are calling for volunteers, whether you are a private individual or from an organization, to help us in fast tracking our repacking of relief goods,‖ said DSWD-7 Regional Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre.

Director Macapobre added that the DSWD Field Offices have a stockpile of 30,000 family food packs ready for immediate delivery upon

request from the concerned Local Government Unit (LGU). ―There is no shortage of supplies, but the agency anticipates more demand as we also augment other regions that’s why we need help with the repacking,‖ added Macapobre.

DSWD-7 needs at least 60 on-call volunteers and it hopes that more men will join as

volunteers.

Interested individuals and organizations can visit DSWD Field Office VII located in Brgy. Carreta, Cebu City and can look for Ms. Lilibeth Cabiara in order to sign up as a volunteer.

After signing-up, a volunteer orientation will be conducted before the deployment. (rmn/jsme/ PIA7-Cebu/DSWD-7)

Two Cebu towns hit by earthquake; no major damage Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, March 21 (PIA7) – Balamban and Asturias towns declared no major damage after the 3.4 magnitude earthquake struck the province early morning March 21.

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sturias, which was identified as the epicenter of the tectonic earthquake that happened several times today, did not report any noticeable damage.

The town’s Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO) head Mark Supatan said in his report that all buildings inspected are still declared safe. ―No major damages on the structures were observed but only hairline cracks on some buildings,‖

according to the report filed by Asturias Mayor Jose Pintor. Supatan said they were able to inspect 11 elementary schools and two high schools in 10 barangays along the National Highway today.

On the other hand, Balamban town, which is next to Asturias, likewise declared no damage.

Balamban Mayor Ace Binghay immediately declared no classes in the morning ordering the LDRRMO to conduct extensive inspection.

According to Balamban Public Information Officer Lavina Campos, LDRRMO led by Edgardo Cabahug inspected all public and private infrastructure within the locality.

The suspension of classes was lifted at 1:30 pm after the assessment.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported two earthquakes between 3:40 am to 3:45 and another one at 5:01 pm.(rmn/fcc/PIA7-Cebu)

PIA Info Kiosk launch set in Dumaguete City Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, March 20 (PIA) — An information kiosk on various information about the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Philppine government progams will be launched in Dumaguete City by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) here.

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he info kiosk will be opened on March 30 at the mall entrance of Robinsons Place Dumaguete.

To heighten awareness on this year’s ASEAN hosting by the Philippines as chair of the regional association, the PIA together with the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) are opening the kiosks in airports, sea ports, and malls to share how the Filipino can benefits of the ASEAN. Available in the kiosk are info materials such as fliers and brochures about what ASEAN is and also other information materials about the

programs of the national government agencies and the local government units.

The kiosk in Robinsons-Dumaguete is the fifth information booth and the only one set up in a mall in Central Visayas to date.

Expected to grace the launching of the info kiosk are Dumaguete City Mayor Felipe Antonio ―Ipe‖ Remollo as guest speaker, OIC Regional Director Fayette Riñen of PIA7, OIC Regional Consular Officer Tita Rebollos of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), OIC Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero of DSWD-NIR, Provincial Director Javier Fortunato, and heads and

representatives of local tourism offices, Philippine National Police (PNP), among others.

With this, shoppers of Robinsons are invited to join the launching program and learn more about the major government programs and projects and the ASEAN 2017.

The agency is also scheduled to hold campus, barangay, and multi-sectoral fora in the province to communicate interactively the significance of the Philippines’ participation in ASEAN. PIA-Negros Oriental is scheduled to have a multi-sectoral forum right after the Holy Week in April in Dumaguete City. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Landbank helps Yolanda victims through water filtration systems Golda Meir T. Tabao TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, March 22 (PIA) – Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) distributed 57 portable water filtration systems recently at Villa Diana, New Kawayan, Tacloban City.

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he water filtration system can remove 99.99999% of bacteria that cause water-borne diseases such as cholera, salmonella, and E. Coli.

Each system can filter up to one million gallons of water and can last for ten years, so said Ms. Jenica Dizon of Waves for Water Philippines.

Aside from the filtration systems, rainwater catchment systems were likewise donated to the community.

Although only 57 households were selected for the program, Ms. Julienne B. Picato, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility Unit-LBP,

encouraged everyone to share it to others, if the need arises.

Mr. Ramero De Luna Jr., Community Leader of Villa Diana, in his message of thanks said that the filtration systems are of big help as water is very important.

Sharing the same sentiment, Mr. Ildebrando Bernadas, Department Head of City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council said, ―A day after Yolanda, Tacloban never stopped saying Thank you.‖ To Mr. Bernadas, the Landbank assistance will bring essential difference to the community. Thus, his commitment as the CDRRM head is to ensure that

the city will do its best to help maintain the facilities.

The Gawad KATUBIGAN or KAakibat na TUlong sa Bayan para sa Inuming KailanGAN project is in line with the Landbank’s Corporate Social Responsibility Program which aims to provide assistance to those who were affected by calamities.

This is in partnership with the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) and Waves for Water (W4W).

PDRF is a humanitarian organization that helps calamity-stricken areas and W4W is an international non-governmental organization that supplies the filtrations systems. (ajc/gmtt/PIA)

PRC, UAE inaugurate Community Health Clinic in Dolores Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, March 21, 2017 (PIA) - The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through Emirates Red Crescent Authority (ERCA) inaugurated and turned-over a new Community Health Clinic on March 10, 2017 in Dolores, Eastern Samar.

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ccording to Hon. Nino Carpeso, Municipal Mayor of Dolores, this new clinic is the first PRC-initiated health facility in Dolores that offers maternal and child care, as well as basic diagnostic services, such as ECG, X-ray, and blood and urine medical procedures. It also offers out-patient medical consultation, blood services, and emergency services.

Carpeso added that the said clinic will provide quality health services to his constituents and the nearby municipalities of Maslog, Jipapad, Arteche, San -Policarpo, Oras, Can-avid, Taft and Sulat.

This clinic is a 432-square-meter, two-storey building. The first floor are the labour room and delivery area, Obgyne ward, X-ray and ultrasound rooms, doctors’ clinics, triage, and waiting

areas.

The second floor are the blood collection, physical examination, reception and registration, supplies and storage, laboratory and cold storage, Phil Health office, conference room and record room.

Present during the inauguration were Dolores Mayor Nino Carpeso, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Republic of the Philippines Hamad Al Zaabi, Secretary General of Red Cross Crescent Authority, Inc. (RCCAI) Dr. Mohamed Al Falahi, Deputy Secretary General for International Aid Fahad Ali Binsultan, Dra. Christie Nalupta, the director of Blood Services of PRC, PRC staff and other guests.

The Dolores Community Health Clinic is a

joint project of the PRC, ERCA, Department of Health (DOH), and Local Government Unit of Dolores, with the goal of alleviating human suffering through the ―build back better and safer program‖ which will improve the lives of Haiyan (Yolanda) ravaged communities.

Meanwhile, the Red Cross Crescent Authority, Inc. (RCCAI) also donated 1,750 school bags (BackPack) to Dolores Central Elementary School (DCES).

The 1,750 school bags was distributed to Kindergarten up to Grade 5 pupils by Dr. Mohamed Al Falahi, Secretary General of RCCAI, assisted by Soledad A. Amigo, DCES Principal and Banilito A. Capon, Asst. Principal. (SDC/PIA-E. Samar)

Families in Hernani town now own permanent houses Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, March 23 (PIA) - Some 55 families who where affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda received permanent housing units turned-over by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

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he UNDP represented by Mr. Enrico Gaveglia, Deputy Country Director turned-over through a symbolic shelter key to Mr. Pedro Naing, President of Hernani Yolanda Survivors Beneficiaries Association, witnessed by Vice-Mayor Wilmar S. Candido, and Sangguniang Bayan Members and other Hernani officials.

In his message during the turn-over, Mr. Gaveglia thanked the Hernani officials for their warm welcome as he reminded the beneficiaries to take good care of their houses.

In his acceptance message in behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Naing also thanked the UNDP for providing them a shelter that they can now call their

own.

Vice-Mayor Candido gave his message in behalf of the Municipal Mayor who is in official travel, disclosed that this project will not be materialized if not for the Local Government Unit, because the counterpart of this project is a lot. The LGU bought a lot for the said project.

Candido added that the housing project marks a fresh start for the community. He also emphasized that to have a house is the first step towards a bright future for their children, while their mission is education.

He challenged the beneficiaries to give priority to the education of their children.

Meanwhile, in an interview with Ms. Susan Saballa, Project Officer for Community Development of UNDP said that the project cost per shelter is P350,000.00. with a floor area of 55 sq. meters, with sala, dining, kitchen and comfort room.

Saballa added that in order to cultivate a sense of ownership and appreciation of the housing units among the beneficiaries the UNDP makes sure that the beneficiaries will provide a sweat equity before each unit is awarded to them.

In the whole Eastern Visayas, the UNDP has turned over 165 housing units in Basey,Tacloban City, with 55 units in Hernani. (ajc/SDC/PIA-E. Samar)

EASTERN VISAYAS

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BFP conducts fire drill at local hospital in Maasin City Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Mar 24 (PIA) – As the accident alarm rings within the Maasin Maternity and Children Hospital here, the hospital employees and medical staff immediately ran outside the edifice bringing some patients responding to the emergency needs during the fire scenario initiated by the Bureau of Fire Protection, in the afternoon of March 23, 2017.

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he fire drill is in connection with the month-long Fire Prevention 2017 celebration carrying the theme, ―Buhay at Ari-arian ay Pahalagahan, Ibayong Pag-iingat sa Sunog ay sa Sariling Pamamahay Simulan.‖ BFP-Maasin City Fire Inspector Jimmy C. Pasague said the ―fire‖ was immediately responded by the rescuers within 4 minutes, informing different concerned agencies such as the Philippine National Police-Maasin City Police Station headed by Police Supt. Alex Dang-aoen, Maasin City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the media, among other concerned groups/ individuals.

He said that a 20-minute was alloted for the fire scenario and was responded by 2 fire trcuks, 2 ambulances and a rescue vehicle from Maasin City.

The procedure establishes the steps required to be performed to complete a fire drill for patient care and the saftey and security of all employees, Pasague said.

Prior to the drill, a dry-run was condcuted by the BFP to the employees and staff of the said hopital, it was learned.

An evacuation area, integrated contingency plan, and a triage tags were installed as tools for first reponders and the medical personnel use during casualty incidents.

There were 5 ―injured‖ adults that were given immediate first aid, the source reported.

All staff were expected to participate in the drill and carry out the procedures called for, while some patients and visitors were moved out from the building, and cleared any obstructions from the corridors.

It is said that ―preparation is the key to any effective emergency response.‖ Conducting effective fire drills helps building owners, property management and others responsible for fire safety within a building. (ajc/rgc/ PIA8-SoLeyte)

More roads paved for Samar's tourism spots Ninfa B Quirante CALBAYOG CITY, Samar, March 22 (PIA) - Gradually, Samar roads to tourist destinations are being paved.

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he DPWH based in Calbayog City has completed the access road to Bangon Falls in Barangay Tinaplacan, Calbayog City.

This is part of the Access Road Project leading to tourist destination, said District Engineer Alvin Ignacio.

The project is appropriated Php 50 Million under the DPWH FY 2016 Infrastructure Fund through the DPWH-DOT Convergence Program.

Some 1.2 kilometers of concretely paved road has been added to the existing road stretch

frequented by local and foreign tourists.

In addition, DPWH had some 768 linear meters Reinforced Concrete Lined canal intended to prevent clogging and water retention that may cause damage to the structure.

The concreted road reaches to the farthest area where base of Bangon Falls is a few steps away.

Following its completion, the influx of guests visiting the three waterfalls namely Larik Falls, Bangon Falls and Tarangban Falls increased from

2,075 in 2015 to 14, 413 in 2016 based on the data provided by the Calbayog City Tourism and Information Officer Ronald Ricafort.

Samar First District Engineering Office, managing the road completion is set to implement another project which is the construction of an access road leading to Bangon Falls (slope Protection) under the DPWH 2017 infrastructure program with Php 100 M before March, 2017 ends. (ajc/nbq/PIA 8-Samar with Levi Barnizo/Samar First Engg District Office)

Pinoy Aquaman swims solo Limasawa-Padre Burgos sea waters Marcelo M. Pedalino PADRE BURGOS, Southern Leyte, March 21 (PIA) - Lawyer Ingemar Macarine, 40, did it again for the twenty-fifth time in his open ocean swimming passion all by his lonesome self.

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n Sunday, March 19, 2017, as the sun rose at 5:30 on that sunny morning, Macarine, now widely known as the Pinoy Aquaman, set out to conquer the watery divide of this town and that of neighboring Limasawa.

He took off at San Agustin in barangay Limasawa, said Nedgar Garvez, the provincial tourism officer who trailed the lone swimmer in a rescue pumpboat, and reached the shoreline of barangay Tangkaan in Padre Burgos, in particular the shores sprawling the Ampo property.

The distance traveled was 10.32 kilometers, the time duration, four hours, 34 minutes. ―The waves were strong, slowing my pace, and I brushed some jellyfish along the way, but only minor bruises,‖ Macarine told PIA, showing some red

spots on his arms, on the way to the municipal hall after indulging in so many photo requests by the adoring and welcoming crowd.

Among those in the crowd was Board Member Lee Uy, Macarine’s boardmate in their school days, and it was upon the invitation of the provincial government, through Uy, that the event was made possible.

The adventure coincided as the kick-off ceremony for this year’s 496 First Mass anniversary on March 31, hence it was also dubbed First Mass Swim for a first swimmer, indeed, to have done so.

Asked what he ate for breakfast shortly before wading the waters, Macarine said he only had three bananas and three eggs.

At the municipal hall where lunch was served and a brief program was held, Macarine confided he had a hard time with the big waves that slowed his three kilometer per hour average speed.

He said he also did the swim to push for his advocacy on clean seas.

Limasawa Vice-Mayor Melchor Petracorta, who was also among those escorting the swimmer, disclosed that the seawaters around were infested with sharks, but he did not mention this beforehand for fear Macarine would back off, eliciting laughter from everyone, including Macarine.

Padre Burgos Mayor Hermenegildo Culpa thanked the aquaman for giving honor and pride to the two towns with his successful feat. (ajc/mmp/ PIA8-Southern Leyte)

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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