One visayas enewsletter vol 7 issue 39 20170929 r6

Vol 7

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Issue 39

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

ASEAN Info campaign: PIA Manager Vicente W. Villavert explains the thematic priorities and benefits the country and its people could gain as a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations during the KUMPAS sa barangay in Aureliana, Patnongon, Antique. In photo are Thomas Bacaoco, Secretary Office of Mayor Johnnyflores Bacongallo of Patnongon, Municipal Information Officer Marlyn Regacho, PO3 Bella Christy Marfil, Punong Barangay Renato Pan and the residents of the said barangay. (PSM/PIA6 Antique)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

Sept. 25 - Oct. 1, 2017

Search for outstanding NGO GAD advocates on By: Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, 28 Sept (PIA)—The Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) is set to launch the search for non-government organizations with good practices advocating and promoting gender responsive initiatives.

While the local government units and agencies have been recognized for their gender and development projects, the NGOs as well as have theirs and must be promoted, according to the RGADC. Ma. Teresa Guadalupe of the National Economic and Development Authority and Regional coordinator for RGADC, said it is also important that the NGOs should be active partners of government in advancing gender-responsive communities. ―We know that they have initiatives and where they are inadequate in some GAD programs, we should be there to help,‖ Guadalupe said in a meeting of the RGADC. ―The search is an endeavour to engage them in more GAD initiatives, while recognizing what they have already been doing,‖ Guadalupe said.

The focus is given to the NGOs because government agencies are already mandated to mainstream GAD in their programs.

Guadalupe said that besides recognizing and increasing

awareness among NGOs on the importance of mainstreaming GAD, the search also seeks to inspire NGOs to advocate for GAD and help government fulfil its commitments to global convention ending violence against women and children and the Beijing Platform for Action.

Initially, the committee has set up some guidelines and mechanics, which it will officially launch before the year ends.

NEDA‘s Ira Pahila, said the basic qualifications for interested NGOs include all non-stock, non-profit organizations, duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and are not receiving any fund assistance from government.

Further, the NGO must be in existence for the last three years.

Generally, the NGOs will be assessed using indicators which include having a gender-sensitive vision, mission and goals which are reflected in its program implementation and advocacies; indicators for sustainability and replication, empowerment, gender-differentiated impacts and gender issues addressed.

Entries will have to come from the provinces in Western Visayas, while mechanics for evaluation and selection will be firmed up yet, according to the task group assigned for the search. (JCM/ ESS/PIA-Iloilo).

34th ASEAN Maritime Transport Security TWG dialogues held in Bohol

By Rey Anthony H. Chiu

CENTRAL VISAYAS

The Philippine Information Agency in Central Visayas (PIA-7) represented by regional staff Amorganda Saludar received a certificate of appreciation for supporting the Civil Service Commission in Central Visayas (CSC-7) in all its programs. (PIA-7)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

Also CLICK Here…

EASTERN VISAYAS

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, September 22 (PIA) — Bohol recently hosted the dialogues of the 34th Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Maritime Transport Security Technical Working Group (TWG).

Over 104 delegates from 10 ASEAN countries as well as another country observer to the dialogues converged in Bohol from September 19 to 21 to share ideas and discuss maritime transport policies that would be adopted to further open the maritime boundaries of the ASEAN member-countries.

No incidents were reported during the hosting of the ASEAN event in Bohol.

The Task Group (TG) Bohol was led by its commander, Central Visayas Regional Police Director PCSupt. Jose Mario Espino, and his deputy commanders, Brigadier General Arnulfo Matanguihan of the Philippine Army, and Regional Director Concepcion Ornopia of the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) in Region 7.

Already the second ASEAN meeting held here, BGen. Matanguihan earlier said it would be his first assignment since during the first ASEAN Meetings, he was with his men minding the Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Inabanga town.

The job was also a first for PCSupt. Espino as the first ASEAN meeting in Bohol had PCSupt. Noli Taliño as TG commander.

The overall goal was to have no incidents during the dialogues, and if there are any, to be able to respond as quickly and contain the problem, said Espino.

Task Group Bohol had 3,576 men and women who made sure that the meetings and the international and local delegates

were safe and secure.

At the send-off ceremonies on September 17, National Disaster Coordination Council Undersecretary Ricardo Jalad joined the security officials in officiating the send-off ceremony for the men deployed for the special ASEAN mission.

The send-off ceremony started off with a Holy Mass officiated by Rev Fr. Craig Jubac at the Panglao Plaza.

Aside from the manpower deployment, authorities also put up fire trucks and Hazardous Materials Special response vehicles, patrol cars, patrol motorcycles, aluminum and rubber boats including steel hulled floating assets of the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, Maritime Police, heavy trucks, personnel carriers and a fleet of utility vans for the mobility of men

Some 3,576 men and women were deployed by Bohol pose for a group photo during their send-off ceremony at Panglao Plaza held last September 17, 2017. They are task to made sure that the meetings of the ASEAN Maritime Transport Security Group were safe and secure.

MARINA leads week-long National Maritime Week Celebration Consuelo B. Alarcon The provincial government of Northern Samar joins the nation in celebrating the #NationalPeaceConsciousnessMonth.

Photo shows Sec. Jesus Dureza of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) speaking during the Flag Raising Ceremony at the New Capitol Grounds, Catarman, Northern Samar, Sept. 25, 2017. (PIA-N. Samar)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Also CLICK Here...

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Sept. 26 (PIA) -- Various activities were lined up in the region for the week-long celebration of the National Maritime Week from September 24-29, 2017 with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) spearheading the activity.

The event is anchored on the theme ― Connecting Ships, Ports and People, the Water That Surrounds Us, Unites Us.‖ In a press briefing, Rodolfo P. Paner, supervising maritime industry development specialist, said that one of the highlights of the week-long observation is the maritime forum where participating agencies will present the mandates and updates of each agencies so the public will be updated.

Other activities included are the dressing-up of ships, blowing of horns, press briefing, fire drills, coastal clean-up and mangrove planting, feeding program, blood letting, zumba and fun run 2017, lecture on financial literacy and maritime labor convention and job fair to be held at Tacloban City Convention

Center on Friday September 29, 2017.

According to Tacloban City Public Employment Service Office, jobseekers are enjoined to avail the free employment coaching and pre-job fair registration today September 26, 2017 at Tacloban Training Center, City Hall, Kanhuraw Hill, Tacloban City.

Some topics to be discussed during the employment coaching are cover letter writing, resume writing, tips for employment interviews and skills registry system.

Participating agencies are National Maritime Polytechnic, Department of Labor and Employment, Philippine Coastguard, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine National Police-Maritime Group, Commission on Higher Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Public Employment Service Office, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, National Telecommunications Commission and other stakeholders.(ajc/ cbaPIA8)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

“Walk for Life” to raise concerns of elderly BY: LILIBETH A. FRENCH

ILOILO CITY, Sept. 27 (PIA6) - - The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) together with the Department of Health (DOH) will hold a „Walk for Life‟ dedicated to older persons on Sunday, October 1.

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he event will be held simultaneously in identified venues nationwide.

In Western Visayas, PhilHealth 6 Regional Vice-President Lourdes Diocson said around 300 participants coming from the different government agencies, local government units, senior citizens organizations and non-government organizations are expected to join the ‗Walk for Life‘ in Iloilo City which will start in SM City at 5:30 A.M. Diocson said the event was designed primarily for the celebration of the Elderly Filipino Week which aims to increase the awareness of the public on the different issues concerning the older persons.

Now on its 22nd year, the celebration is guided with the theme ―Pagkilala sa Kakayahan, Ambag,

at Paglahok ng mga Nakakatanda sa Lipunan‖ in pursuant to Proclamation No. 470, s 1994 which declares every first week of October as Linggo ng Katandaan Filipino (Elderly Filipino Week) in the country.

Meanwhile, the ‗Walk for Life‘ event is also included among the activities listed by the Regional Coordinating and Monitoring Board 6 chaired by the Department of Social Welfare and Development 6 for the week-long celebration in the region.

Judith Tanate- Barredo, DSWD 6 Focal Person for Older Persons advised elderly who will join the walk to be dressed appropriately considering it will start early in the morning.

As part of its activities, the RCMB 6 has set an

Updating on Report System Prevention Program for the Elderly Abuse cum Senior Citizens Congress on October 6 to 7. This will be participated in by the Heads of Office of Senior Citizens Affairs and Federation of Senior Citizens Associations of the Philippines, representatives of Senior Citizens organizations and Older Person Focal Persons from the different provinces of the region.

In the evening of October 6, participants will gather for a Regional Cultural Contest where they will be dressed in their assigned ASEAN country costume.

Barredo said through this activity the older persons in Western Visayas show their support to the country‘s chairship of the ASEAN 2017. (JCM/ PIA-Iloilo)

DOH briefs IPs on threat of tuberculosis

By Vicente W. Villavert SAN JOSE, Antique Sept. 28 (PIA) - - Various Indigenous Peoples (IP) or Ati tribes of the Municipalities of Hamtic, San Jose and T. Fornier were oriented about the threats posed by tuberculosis (TB) to body wellbeing if remained untreated.

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The program conducts active TB case finding especially for this sector in order for them to help minimize if not prevented the spread of the disease in their respective Ati tribes,‖ said Dr. Feman Rene Autajay, DOH6 Development Management Officer, during the PIA Radio interview.

Dr. Autajay said that when people infected with TB cough or sneeze, they spread the TB germs into the air and infecting other members of their family, and the rest of the community.

More than 100 IPs with their respective tribe leaders attended the DOH activity held in a hotel in San Jose, where they listened attentively to the lecture of Dr. Leoncio Abiera, Medical Specialist II of the Provincial Health Office.

In his lecture Dr. Abiera said that in one untreated smear positive case, 10-20 will be infected in a year ―that is why prompt and adequate diagnosis and standardized treatment regimens with appropriate treatment support and supervision are needed.

According to DOH, TB is number six (6) cause of death and illness, and the Philippines is number nine (9) among 22 countries with high TB burden.

The DOH 2009 data showed an estimated 32,000 deaths or 87 deaths per day.

In order to prevent and control the spread of TB, DOH advises people to always cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing; do not spit anywhere; wash hands properly; get medical consultation; and take the correct kind and quantity

of drugs and complete the treatment.

The Directly Observed Therapy is one strategy to ensure that patients with TB take all their medication.

National TB Control Program Nurse Coordinator Sheree S. Vego reported that the Provincial Health Office has 121 percent detection rate or about 2,326 TB cases were detected from patients for the year 2016, while more than 1,300 TB cases were detected for the period covering January-August 2017 in the province.

After the program, the Provincial Health Office conducted TB screening for adult and children of the various tribes of the IPs from the municipalities of Hamtic, San Jose, and T.Fornier. (JCM/VWV/PIA Antique)

Capiz organizes RETT

by Alex A. Lumaque ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Sept. 25 (PIA6) – Two Rapid Emergency Telecommunications Teams (RETT) were organized in the province as among the results of a two-day Emergency Telecommunications Cluster Summit in Capiz last Sept. 21 and 22 at the Gerry Roxas Foundation here.

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he two-day summit also facilitated the formulation of a draft of the teams‘ operations manual that will serve as as terms of reference before, during and after emergencies and disasters. ―Experience has shown that effective response depends fundamentally on two factors which are information and resources,‖ said Office of Civil Defense (OCD) – 6 director Rosario T. Cabrera.

She added that OCD – 6 and the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office encountered difficulties on what appropriate actions to undertake due to problems with

communication for almost two days in the aftermath of super typhoon Yolanda.

Each of the newly formed RETTs are composed of a team leader, assistant team leader, radio operators, electronics as well as special equipment specialists, Information Technology experts, VSAT satellite operator, system support specialists, radio frequency managers and a Public Information Officer.

RETT, as a rapid deployment team, will provide assistance to the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Operations Center for coordination at the regional level.

Cabrera said that the summit is an offshoot of the regional Emergency Telecommunications Cluster – Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Bayanihan in Iloilo last year.

It intends to discuss the importance of compatibility, interoperability, commonality and the institutionalization of ICT for an effective disaster management program through a centralized working organization. It was also designed to address the communications, electronics and information needs of the Emergency Operations Center or Incident Command Posts in a disaster area for command control and mechanism. (AAL/PIA6 Capiz)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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Finally, "It has to be Iloilo" !

By: Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Sept. 27 (PIA6) --- The Sangguniang Panlalawigan here approved the adoption of “It Has To Be Iloilo” as the official tagline of the province of Iloilo.

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rovincial Ordinance No. 2017-148 was sponsored by Provincial Board Members Marcelo Valentine Serag of the first district of Iloilo province and Demetrio Sonza of the second district.

According to the ordinance, it is a practice to use taglines as tools in the promotion or marketing to spur investments and attract local and international tourists to a destination, printed in investment flyers and other materials as guide to tourists and

investors.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has adopted several taglines like ―It‘s More Fun in the Philippines‖, and ―Experience Western Visayas First‖.

Iloilo City has also adopted the taglines ―The Next Big Thing‖ and ―I am Iloilo, Proud to Be Filipino‖.

Iloilo province has been using various taglines and the most recent of which are ―Its Got To Be Iloilo‖ and ―It‘s Got To Be Iloilo‖ both printed and adopted by the

municipal tourism offices in the province.

The ordinance said there is a need to correct and adopt only one tagline as there is confusion whether the phrase should be started by ―Its‖ or ―It‘s‖.

With the approval of the ordinance, the province of Iloilo shall now use ―It Has To Be Iloilo‖ as its official tagline in all its flyers and promotional materials.

The municipalities in Iloilo province and the component city of Passi may adopt the same tagline. (JCM/PIA-Iloilo)

Aklan hosts 5th Regional Organic Agriculture Congress Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, 29 September (PIA6) -- The province of Aklan is playing host to Western Visayas‟ 5th Regional Organic Agriculture Congress (ROAC) which formally opened September 27 and will end September 29.

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ain venue of the congress is the Provincial Trade Hall, Aklan Capitol Grounds, which serves as the display area of the region‘s organically grown agriculture products as well as other food items which are attractions in themselves, showcased by the provinces of Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Guimaras and Aklan.

With the theme ―Organikong Produkto: Para sa Ikaayong Lawas Kag Pagtib-ong Sang Turismo‖, the activity, according to Salome David, Assistant Provincial Agriculturist of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist here aims to gather various stakeholders of Organic Agriculture Program into a venue of knowledge sharing, skills enhancement and market opportunities; and to give due recognition to program implementers with outstanding performance in the production and marketing of organic vegetables, livestock, poultry and fisheries.

In his message at the opening program, Aklan Vice Governor Reynaldo M. Quimpo, who

represented Governor Florencio T. Miraflores, said the province is greatly honored to host the congress which could promote stakeholders‘ interest in organic farming.

Vice Governor Quimpo said with close to 2 million tourist arrivals in Boracay Island as of this period, there is a high demand in organic agricultural products in Aklan but supply is insufficient to cater to their needs.

With this scenario, he called on participating provinces to further venture into organic farming to supply the needs of the tourists. ―There are many restaurants in Boracay Island who need you‖, Vice Governor Quimpo said.

Engr. Remelyn Recoter, Department of Agriculture 6 Regional Executive Director was supposed to deliver a message at the opening program too, but as she was out of the country, she was represented by Ma. Theresa Solis, who gave the rationale in the conduct of the organic agriculture congress.

Aside from the showcase of various products

from the various provinces like organic rice, fruits, vegetables, vinegar, delicacies and many others, the venue also served as the lecture area on various agriculture-related topics like updates on National Organic Agri Program, Organic Farming Technologies, Marketing of Organic Products, Organic Livestock Production and Management, Farm Tourism and Healthy Lifestyle, and a lot more.

The congress also features Poster Making and Photo Contest, Composo Contest and Slow Food Cookfest.

On the last day of the congress, participants from the various provinces will have expository trips to organic farms in Aklan, with the group from Capiz, Guimaras and Iloilo to visit Farmer‘s Hand Garden, a vegetable organic farm, and Meliton Garden, an integrated farm in Banga, Aklan; while the group from Antique and Aklan will visit Maxselma Farm in Cajilo, Makato, and Juan Organic Farm in Albasan, Numancia, Aklan. (JCM/ VGV PIA6 Aklan)

Japanese firm to invest in dairy project By: Easter Anne D. Doza NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Sept. 26 (PIA6) - - Japanese firm Tenshinzan Farm will lease out a portion of the Negros First Ranch in Barangay Sta. Rosa in Murcia town for a Dairy Development Project.

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overnor Alfredo G. Marañon Jr. signed the contract of lease with Tenshinzan Farm representative Takahiro Ishii with Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Renante Decena and Tenshinzan Farm‘s Kozen Takemoto as witnesses at the Governor‘s Office of the Provincial Capitol recently.

In the contract, Tenshinzan Farm, a private

corporation based in Japan, will lease a portion of the Negros First Ranch located at Brgy. Sta. Rosa, Municipality of Murcia and invest in a Dairy Development Project that will contribute to the food security and economic growth of the province.

Tenshinzan Farm will finance and undertake the construction and repair of the milking parlor and

other facilities of the project, a release from the Capitol said.

While, the Provincial Veterinary Office is allowed to assist and render its manpower and technical support services as may be necessary in the management and operation of the project. (JCM/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Food Safety Summit held in Dumaguete

By Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Sept. 22 (PIA) – The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) has recently initiated a Food Safety Awareness Summit in a bid to compete with ASEAN countries that are now strictly following global food standards.

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OCCI President Edward Du said that the importance of food safety, sanitation, with more than 700 participants, this is and hygiene especially our street food vendors,‖ he the biggest food safety summit in the added.

Visayas.

NOCCI also intends to encourage the Participants during the summit included MSMEs or the street food vendors to comply street food vendors, micro small medium enterprises with Republic Act 10611, or the Food Safety Act of (MSMEs), local producers, students, faculty, and local 2013. government units in the province.

During the summit, AFOS Foundation of ―This is to let them become aware of Germany Program Manager Deitmar Speckmaier

talked about ―AFOS Our Food Program‖ as one of the resource speakers. A Muslim leader was also invited to discuss Halal food processing as Du said the chamber encourages businesses to establish Halal restaurants and food outlets due to the growing number of Muslims in the province.

Du is also pushing to establish a Halal-certified restaurant for the Halal industry in the Visayas. (jct/ PIA7-Negros Oriental)

Bohol firm hits big time with DOST-FPRDI dryer PIA 7 BOHOL, Sept. 25 – Ever since his firm started using the Department of Science and Technology‟s Forest Products Research and Development Institute‟s (DOST-FPRDI‟s) furnace-type lumber dryer (FTLD), Mr. Cirilo Sumampong‟s life has never been the same again.

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hile he used to be a small lumber retailer in the town of Dauis, Bohol, he is now the province‘s biggest supplier of custom-built furniture. His company, Bohol Furniture and Lumber Supply, earns a gross income of P1.16 million a month, and enjoys brisk business all year round.

Mr. Sumampong relates, ―During our first years in the business, we were producing nothing but door jambs and air-dried lumber, earning only P1,500 a month. Sales were good only between September and December each year. Now, with our kiln-dried wood, we make trusses, floor planks, doors, door jambs and all kinds of furniture – beds, chairs, dining sets. Thanks to our number one client – the hotels and beach resorts that have sprung all over Bohol in recent years – our products are in demand all the

time.‖ ―When we decided to expand in 2012, we asked the Bohol Provincial S&T Center to help us acquire a 10,000 board feet FTLD,‖ he continued. ―They introduced us to DOST‘s Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program or SETUP, which gave us a grant of P1 million.

During our first operation in 2014, we grossed a whopping P2.5 million from a beach resort owner.‖ ―From then on, life was never the same for us. While we used to consume only 7,000 board feet of lumber per year, we now use up to 100,000 board feet of gemelina and mahogany wood annually.

Our product lines grew and because we knew that we were using quality materials, we gained

confidence in dealing with our buyers.‖ ―Our clients became aware of the value of kiln-dried lumber and learned to trust our products.

We were able to pay the SETUP grant after one year, and later on bought a big lot where we put up another store and a showroom. The dryer also created jobs for people in the community, as we trained and hired operators.‖ ―We never expected this kind of success and we are very thankful for everything that the FTLD has brought to us,‖ Mr. Sumampong admitted. ―For now, we do not have plans of adding more units to our factory.

We simply want to use our dryer to bring our clients wood products that will last for a long time because these have been dried the best way possible.‖ (DOST / R.K. Araral , A.A. Decena)

3rd PIA Info Kiosk in Bohol now up at Tubigon port

By Rey Anthony H. Chiu TUBIGON, Bohol, September 20 (PIA) -- Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto led the launching of Bohol‟s third Information Kiosk of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) at the port of Tubigon on Sept. 14.

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he Governor was joined by Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Tagbilaran Port Manager Engr. James Gantalao, Tubigon Port Manager Engr. Yolando Ponce, and Mayor William R. Jao in cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

This marked Bohol's third Information Kiosk dedicated to the spread of information about the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the various programs of the national and local governments.

It may be recalled that PIA in Bohol along with the PPA launched the second PIA Information Kiosk at the Port of Tagbilaran after the PIA, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) also opened the Tagbilaran City Airport Information Kiosk in March of this year.

The port of Tubigon is one of the significant

ports in Bohol in terms of traffic, movement of people, and goods and services and it is just right for the port to have a kiosk so everyone will understand the ASEAN and how it will impact the lives of ordinary people, said Gov. Chatto.

Mayor Jao said the port services about 5,000 to 10,000 commuters every day.

Since Bohol identifies tourism as among its engines for development, the kiosk also shows tourist spots in the island, one that can help the towns in promoting their tourism products.

Chatto said the opening of the Tubigon Information Kiosk is part of the information build-up for the preparations of the 50th hosting of the Philippines for the ASEAN Summit this November.

Bohol recently hosted the ASEAN Maritime Security Technical Working Group meeting in Panglao from September 19-21, the third

international conference held in Bohol this year, according to the governor.

Last August, the ASEAN also held its Asian Cooperation Dialog (ACD) with 34 other countries in Panglao.

Chatto also hinted of another ASEAN conference in October, this time with the top finance ministers of the 10 countries.

He urged Boholanos to be special hosts for the national and international guests for the conferences even as he also engaged people into making good use of the kiosks to better understand how ASEAN can help Boholanos.

"Avail of the kiosk facilities as it will give you and your children a better picture of where we are as far as the global and ASEAN trends of growth and development are concerned," he said. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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PNP inaugurates new P14M city police station

By Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, September 20 (PIA) -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Police Chief Superintendent Jose Mario Espino led the turnover and inauguration of the P14 million police station in Tagbilaran City.

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unded by the General Appropriations Act of 2016, the two-storey modern structure built on a 1,000 square meter lot owned and donated by the City of Tagbilaran through Mayor John Geesnell Yap and the City Sanggunian stands behind the new and retrofitted Tagbilaran City Hall.

This would replace the old police station at the abandoned city hall near the Cathedral, although the conference hall still needs to be fitted with air-conditioning units, Mayor Yap said.

Painted in the iconic colors of blue and white characteristic of the new police stations all over the country, the new police base in Tagbilaran is nearly three times as huge as the standard P4 million police stations the PNP funded for the towns.

Police Regional Office 7 (PRO-7) Chief Superintendent Espino and Regional Logistics and Research Division Chief PSSupt. Marcelo Dayag passed on the symbolic key to City Police Chief PSupt. Patricio Degay signifying the transfer of

responsibility to the local police force in maintaining the upkeep of the facility.

The building, which was set for turnover months ago, finally had its blessings and inauguration with Rev. Fr. Sinforiano Monton officiating and attended by City and PNP and provincial government officials. At the ceremonies, Espino acknowledged the City Government under Mayor Yap for its relentless support to the PNP, one he acknowledges as a true investment of a growing competitive city like Tagbilaran.

The City Government under Yap has donated mobility assets to the City Police exemplified by the two four-wheeled patrol cars and facilitated the donation of another one from a private company to boost police mobility and presence in the streets.

The City Government also donated motor vehicles now used by the Motorcycle Anti Street Crime Operatives (MASCO), while investing in putting up its own Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit.

In his message, the city mayor also revealed that in the city government's continued commitment of support, 10 more M4 assault rifles are added to the city operatives' assault arsenal even as he assured continued support for ammunition which the city peacekeeping and anti-crime force needs in crime suppression.

To make the work of the city police easier, the city adopted the use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in strategic locations to exponentially expand the city's anti-crime watch capability.

And as a force multiplier, the city mayor promised to continue with the Active Local Emergency Response Team (ALERT) as additional eyes and ears of the police especially in outlying districts.

The city mayor also revealed that in the offing is the additional police allowance which the members of the City Sanggunian is now preparing for implementation. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

EDC launches video competition for Negrense filmmakers

By Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Sept. 22 (PIA) – The geothermal leader Energy Development Corporation (EDC) has launched a video competition with the theme “Sa Geothermal, May Forever” for Negrense filmmakers.

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articipants will produce a creative 3 to 5-minute video pitch which answers the question ―How can geothermal energy give us a brighter future?‖ According to EDC Corporate Communications Officer Frances Ariola, this first ever video contest on geothermal energy is open to all professional and amateur Negrense filmmakers, actors, actresses, and scriptwriters.

The theme is open to interpretation, and participants are encouraged to tell the best story they can to describe the benefits of geothermal

energy.

Ariola said participants only need a camera (even a cellphone camera) and a group of friends to make their vision come to life.

Groups that submit their videos will have a chance to see their work featured on the Positive Energy Facebook page.

Producers of the best picture will win P20,000 while other prizes await the Best Screenplay, Best Actor, Best Actress, and People‘s Choice awards that will be announced during a gala event, she added.

Deadline for submission of entries has been extended to October 1, 2017. ―Sa Geothermal, May Forever‖ video contest is being done in partnership with DRINK Editorial and Design, Inc., the Association of Negros Oriental Public Information Officers (ANOPIO), Hush Events, and Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Bacolod.

For updates, details, and the full mechanics, check the Positive Energy Facebook page: fa ceboo k. com/ Po si ti veEner gyNegr os . (j ct/ PIA7-Negros Oriental)

Trinidad anti-crime watch goes hi-tech PIA 7 TAGBILARAN CITY, September 20 (PIA) – Anti-crime operations here get a boost after the expansion of the Trinidad Digital Fiber Optic Network.

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he town expanded expanded the system with an additional 53 high definition cameras and the new internet protocol private branch exchange (IP PBX) phone lines plus a short messaging system text blast, which is critical in lockdowns and other emergency response action.

The initial phase was rolled out with with 49 high definition closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras and nine IP PABX telephone system.

The CCTV cameras were installed in vantage points around the town. The cutting edge technology coupled with a trusted manpower and the curfew system would mean that chances of anyone getting away with a crime here are now reduced, said Trinidad Mayor Judith Cajes.

Key public areas like town market, municipal hall, and major road networks have wireless CCTV cameras transmitting crisp images to the command center that is manned 24/7, Cajes added. ―When you have traffic accidents and there is a need to report the incident to the rescue teams, there might be problems with load and or intermittent mobile phone signals, so we figured out a PABX should be there,‖ she explained.

Beyond this state-of-the art crime watch, the town also set up its trusted and time-tested Barangay Tanods in 20 villages to carry out nightly roving operations, she reported during the State of the Town Address (SOTA) delivered in time for the town's 70th founding anniversary.

A town situated in the delta of the Ipil river

and bordered by big towns - Ubay to the east, Talibon to the northwest, and San Miguel to the south - securing Trinidad is a challenge.

Trinidad features vast plains and tall forested limestone hills with isolated areas utilized as farms that are too far for HD cameras.

For this, the town implemented its curfew ordinances and empowered its tanods to occasionally monitor to these areas. ―We know how tough a tanod's job is, and with that, we have recently increased their honoraria,‖ the lady mayor said.

During the town‘s anniversary, the Trinidadnons cheered as their tanods performed a standard drill and arnis competition. (rahc/ PIA7-Bohol)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

CapEx will assure power reliability - BILECO Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran, September 26 (PIA) -- The top management of the only electric cooperative in the island province of Biliran assured the reliability of power supply once its Capital Expenditures (CapEx) projects will be implemented.

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ILECO seeks the approval of its identified and proposed 14 CapEx projects for the years 2011 to 2015 with proposed total amount of P 113, 475, 197.28.

CapEx projects are intended to address the distribution system's technical deficiencies and to provide continuous supply, efficient, reliable and best possible quality of service to its customers. ―I can assure to the member-consumers of BILECO of power reliability,‖ Engr. Gerardo N. Oledan, BILECO general manager said in a mobile phone interview.

Oledan added that the technical personnel of

BILECO have been working with the technical requirements of the ERC-approved BILECO CapEx projects worth P75, 295, 332.56 where he expect they will finish in the last quarter of 2017. ―The long wait of BILECO to implement the long-delayed CapEx projects they submitted on November 17, 2011 to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is over as it was approved only in July this year,‖ Oledan further said.

Among the major network projects include the construction of a new 3.15 MVA sub-station at Caraycaray, Naval, Biliran worth P4, 075, 983. 17;

Construction of 16.5 km, 69 kV sub-transmission line (Biliran to Caraycaray, Naval- P 36,259,603.33; Installation of Additional Line Protection Feeder No. 1 - P1, 800, 000.00; Installation of Additional Line Protection Feeder No. 2 - P2,400,000.00 ; Construction of 2.8 km, Double Circuit Line (Caraycaray to Atipolo, Naval) - P2, 591, 580.85; Construction of 5 km, Double Circuit Line (Caraycaray to Naval Poblacion) - P5, 312, 990.43; and the Upgrading of 20.8 km. Distribution Line from Existing I-Phase to 3-Phase (Bliss, Calumpang to Brgy.

Cabibihan Caibiran) - P6, 814,533.33. (ajc/FJ/rsv/PIA Biliran)

BSPO undergo enhancement skills on interpersonal communication Nimfa Iluminada B. Quirante BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Sept. 26 (PIA) -- About 40 Barangay Service Point Officers (BSPO) from Borongan City will undergo a training on Interpersonal Communication (IPC) on Sept. 26-27, 2017.

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arangay service point officers are barangay volunteers of the population officer tasked to promote and widen awareness of and deeper appreciation on the government‘s family planning and reproductive health services.

Dr. Ethel A. Lagria, City Population Officer of Borongan said that the training aims to equip BSPOs or barangay population volunteers in handling clients who want to avail of services related to responsible parenthood and family planning (RPFP). ―Many health workers, population workers and community volunteers do not view interpersonal communication as a particular ―skill.‖

As a result, they pay little attention to their interpersonal communication styles. However, effective interpersonal communication just like service provision is something that must be learned and improved through training,‖ Dr. Lagria said.

She added that interpersonal communication between BSPOs and their clients is one of the most important ways to motivate would be clients access the RPFP services and be given the available family planning services and improve client satisfaction, compliant with possible health treatments, and achieve health outcomes.

Meanwhile, Reyan L. Arinto, POPCOM VIII

Technical Chief said the two-day training workshop aims to teach a technique for an effective interpersonal communication and counselling, such as in establishing rapport with the clients, listening actively in order to correctly assess the health concerns of the clients, provide information of options for solving the health problem, and in referring clients to FP services and provider get additional services/information if needed.

This technique can be used for counselling on many health issues.

The major tasks and functions of BSPOs are motivation and referral-thus linking demand generation initiatives to service delivery. (ajc/nbqPIA8-E.Samar with Mel Caspe)

New PNP8 regional head visits Biliran province PIA 8 NAVAL, Biliran, Sept. 26 (PIA) -- PCSupt. Gilberto DC Cruz, newly-installed regional director of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in region 8 based in Camp Ruperto Kangleon in Palo, Leyte, made a three-day visit (September 21-23) to Biliran province to meet with provincial officials and police personnel in the island province.

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NP-Biliran Police Provincial Office (BPPO) headed by PSSupt. Robert Alexander Morico III prepared a fellowship dinner, September 23, at 7:00 o‘clock in the evening at the Naval gymnasium for all Biliran officials and personnel to meet with the new PNP regional chief.

PCSupt. Cruz joined the PNP-BPPO in biking

from Biliran town to the capitol grounds where some PNP personnel, drug surrenderers and other government employees participated in a Zumba exercise. A short program followed at the capitol grounds.

After the activities at the capitol grounds, PNP-BPPO personnel proceeded to the Biliran Police Provincial Office for the tree planting activity inside

the compound and destruction of confiscated chainsaws during police operations for illegal logging activities.

PCSupt. Gilberto Dela Cruz (DC) Cruz was installed at Camp Ruperto Kangleon in Palo, Leyte in August, this year, following the retirement of PNP 8 Regional Director PCSupt. Elmer C. Beltejar. (ajc/FJ/ mlt/PIA8-Biliran)

EASTERN VISAYAS

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DPWH-SoLeyte eyes P2.2-B budget for 2018 Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sep. 26 (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways Southern Leyte District Engineering Office (DPWH-SLDEO) is seeking for P2.2 billion funds to finance infrastructure projects in the province next year.

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he proposal is higher than the P1.7 billion outlay for 2017 as the central government steps up roads and bridges widening activities and construct new bridges, DPWH District Engineer Ma. Margarita Junia reported. ―Since most of our road sections have been widened, the next step is to widen the bridges to complement road expansion projects,‖ Junia said.

The proposed budget will also fund the improvement of roads leading to major ports and other production areas, as well as for building and

upgrading of access roads to various economic zones and tourist destinations.

Pending the final approval of the 2018 projects, the district office have been conducting pre-detailed engineering activities to ensure that projects will be implemented soon after Congress gives a thumbs up to the proposal.

Junia disclosed that bidding is scheduled in October and notice of award will be issued after the budget approval.

Pre-implementation activities include surveying, preparation of design plan,

preparation of technical specifications, and road right of way acquisition plans, among others.

It was learned that the DPWH-SLDEO is tasked to maintain and upgrade 299 kilometers of national roads and 155 bridges, built in the 18 towns of the province and Maasin City, the provincial capital.

As of August 2017, the field office here posted a 60.12 percent accomplishment, ahead by 11.33 percent than the 48.79 percent target for the month. (with reports from DPWH/ajc/rgc/PIA8Soleyte)

PNP SoLeyte: 269 barangays cleared from drugs Erna S. Gorne MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 26 (PIA) -- More than half of the 500 barangays in the province have been declared by the Southern Leyte Provincial Police Office (SLPPO) as drug cleared barangays, so far.

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NP Provincial Director PSSupt. Warren De Leon said that some 269 barangays were reported by their office to be drug cleared, however, said barangays still need to undergo validation by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to become a certified drug cleared barangay.

During the recent monthly press conference with SLPPO, it was reported that other than the

reports coming from the local police, respective punong barangays and members of the Barangay Anti-Drug Addiction Councils (BADACs) still need to confirm the drug-cleared status of a certain barangay.

De Leon further said that to be declared as drug cleared barangay, there should be no more presence of drug pushing, drug users, no presence of any drug laboratory,

among others.

He earlier noted that there are 45 barangays in the province that are not affected by drug problem while the rest of the 455 barangays are affected with the presence of illegal drugs.

There were no barangay identified to have serious problem with illegal drugs, so far. (esg/PIA8 SoLeyte)

Eastern Samarenos get serious in pursuing cacao production Nimfa Iluminada B. Quirante BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Sept. 26 (PIA) -- In line with the government's aspirations to strengthen the Cacao Industry, the Eastern Samar Cacao Industry Development Council (ESCIDC) has forged partnership with People In Need, Helvetas, Swiss Solidarity, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), and the Provincial Government of Eastern Samar in convening the Regional Cacao Industry Council in a Provincial Cacao Forum, held on September 21 and 22 in Borongan City.

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laro Ramiro Garado, ESCIDC chairperson, said that the event aims to gather the Cacao Industry Council in the region to learn from each other's experiences in strengthening the cacao council and promote cacao industry development in the region.

The different councils offer valuable lessons on how to grow cacao and sustain them.

In the forum some 150 farmers, representatives of national government agencies, academe, local government units and the business sector were present.

The meeting addressed concerns on challenges in the development of the cacao industry in the province; clarified existing support mechanism for cacao industry development; and

identified ways to enhance these support mechanism so that key stakeholders will have a better access to information a n d o p p o r t u n i ti e s u s e f u l i n m o v i n g forward locally-initiated cacao industry development efforts.

According to Sheikha Kaye Estil, intervention manager, People In Need (PIN), an international NGO, cacao production is relatively new in Eastern Samar.

Farmers and local investors are on a "wait and see" attitude.

While they have seen households lived off from coconut production and sent kids to college, they have yet to see a household earn from cacao production and processing.

What they know of cacao trees is they are stand-alone trees in a few households where grandmothers gather beans and make "tablea" and "tsokolate" form for the family and the neighbors.

Obviously, people in Eastern Samar still need to appreciate the potential of the cacao industry.

They also need to learn the fundamentals of cacao growing, and know to source out inputs and support, the NGO head said.

Acting Governor Marcelo Ferdinand Picardal committed some P5 M to support the industry and to inspire cacao farmers to get serious in pursuing cacao production. (ajc/nbq/PIA 8-Eastern Samar with Mel Caspe)

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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