One visayas enewsletter vol 7 issue 49 20171208 r6

Vol 7

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Antoinette Cherish F. Taus, CORA (Communities Organized for Resource Allocation) Founder and UN Goodwill Ambassador encourages the youth to do volunteer works in order to create change in the community during the Youth Environment Summit (YES) held Nov. 24 at Iloilo Convention Center here. (PIA-Iloilo)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

Dec. 4 - 10, 2017

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Issue 49

PIA chief to student writers - fight misinformation Lorenzo O. Lambatin BACOLOD CITY, Dec. 7 (PIA6) -- Philippine Information Agency Director General Harold Clavite called on student writers in Region VI to do their share in preventing the spread of fake news.

"This is our call to action to every one of you: tell your parents, your classmates and your friends that misinformation can only be prevented if we all do our part to check what we tell other people."

During the 42nd College Press Awards at the Iloilo Convention Center he told college students that it is everybody's responsibility to ensure that the information the public gets, especially regarding the affairs of the state, is verified and would not mislead the citizens.

He said "you have the power to equip your countrymen, and your neighbors in this region, the information they need should be free and self-governing."

He also stressed the need for writers to observe ethical standards in information dissemination especially in the use of social media.

We must promote ethical and sensitive gathering and publication of information, especially with the advent of

social media, he said.

"The next time you pick up your pens, cameras or microphones, remember that you are not practicing for a future job or for grade incentives.

You are training to be servants of the people and that is the most prestigious job of all." (JCM/ Lljr-PIA)

PIA Director General Harold Clavite served as keynote speaker during the COPRE 2017. (PIA6)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

Over P12B demonetized NDS still in circulation Ferliza Contratista

Presidential Communications Operations Office Assistant Sec. Ana Marie Rafael-Banaag asks the help of the information officers from the national government agencies and local government units in helping them communicate the programs of the government. #EmpoweringCommunities (PIA-7)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

Also CLICK Here...

CEBU CITY, Nov. 29 (PIA) — Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) still has to collect over P12 billion worth of New Design Series (NDS) bank notes that are still in circulation in the country.

With barely a month to the new deadline of December 29 this year, Hazel Arante, Regional Information Officer of BSP Cebu, said there are still 266.9 million pieces of NDS bank notes which are in circulation.

This prompted BSP to reach out to all the sectors of the community here and abroad to have these NDS bank notes exchanged into New Generation Currencies (NGC).

She issued the reminder to the members of the Cebu Association of City and Municipal Public Information Officers (CAOCAMPIO) during their monthly meeting.

“This December 29 is the last chance to have these exchanged, or else all those bank notes will no longer have

tender value,” Arante said.

During her briefing, Arante also discussed getting the most out of credit cards as she explained the formula when to pay the dues every month.

“Be a transactor and not a revolver,” Arante said.

A transactor knows when to pay and pay in full in order to prevent paying of charges.

On the other hand, a revolver merely pays the minimum due and will likely to be charged with more in the next month.

Fe Estrella Lawas, Compostela Public Information Officer said, said she learned a lot in the usage of the credit card.

“I didn’t know we can waive some of the charges if we just request it,” Lawas said.

CAOCAMPIO members gather every month for their meeting and briefings from various government agencies on government programs and projects. (fcc/ PIA7-Cebu

EASTERN VISAYAS

PDEA-8 declares Tacloban as first HUC drug-free in the Visayas Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Dec. 7 (PIA) – It is official.

Tacloban City in Leyte is now drug-free.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) officially declared Tacloban as the first highly urbanized city PCSO-BILIRAN. Alexander Balutan (standing), in the Visayas as drug-cleared.

PCSO general manager, announces PCSO will In a press conference held at the new PDEA-8 allocate P50,000 a day to the newly-opened Tacloban Office in December 6, Monday, PDEA-8 Regional PCSO office at the second floor of the Naval Director Edgar T. Jubay said that the declaration was made Mall fronting the Naval public terminal in Naval, after the regional oversight committee on barangay Biliran, to address the medical needs of the B i l i r a n o n s, e sp e ci a l l y th e i n d i g e n t drug clearing operations validated the status of the 138 constituents. He added he will increase the barangays of the city, all of which met the 14 parameters assistance to P100,000 a day in 2018. (rvictoria/ pursuant to the provisions of the Dangerous Drugs Board PIA Biliran) (DDB).

The 14 parameters include the non-availability of drug supply, absence of drug transshipment activity, absence of clandestine drug laboratory, absence of clandestine drug warehouse, absence of clandestine chemical warehouse, More on Region 8, pages 6-7. absence of marijuana cultivation site, absence of drug den Also CLICK Here... or resort, absence of drug pusher, absence of drug user/ dependent, absence of protector, coddler and financier,

active movement of barangay officials in anti-drug activities, active involvement of SK to help maintain the drug-liberated status of the barangay, existence of drug awareness, prevention, education, information and other drug related programs and existence of voluntary drug treatment and rehabilitation processing desk.

In her speech, Tacloban City Mayor Cristina G. Romualdez expressed her appreciation to the concerted efforts of various law enforcement agencies, the barangay officials, the New Beginnings Rehabilitation Program of the city and the public that paved the way for the declaration of the city as drug-cleared.

She likewise called on Taclobanons to help keep the city as drug-free in order to maintain the status of all barangays.

A drug cleared city is classified as previously drug affected and subjected to drug clearing operation and declared free from any illegal drug activities pursuant to the parameters set forth by DDB regulation no. 3 series of 2017.(ajc/cba/PIA8)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

Guimaras to host international gab on coastal management Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, Dec. 7 (PIA6) — The Province of Guimaras will host the International Forum on Coastal Management under the Partnership in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia Network of Local Government (PNLG).

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uimaras Governor Samuel T. Gumarin accepted the PNLG flag last December 6, at Sanya Visun Yacht Hotel, in Hainan Province, China as a symbol of acceptance for the hosting of the 2018 PNLG. A press release from the Guimaras Public Information Office said that the province is one of the four-member provinces in the Philippines that implements the Integrated Coastal Management Program.

The press release said that this is for sustainable development covering the preservation, conservation and restoration of the island’s ecosystem from the hills to the sea.

Guimaras has coastal and marine areas that have been significant sources of livelihood from small scale fishing to tourism potentials.

Jaypee Entredicho, Public Information Officer, said in the same press release, that recently new elements have been incorporated to

enhance the provincial development plan of Guimaras, considering eco-tourism as one of its potentials.

Some of the success indicators are developed agroforestry, integrated farming systems and agri-aqua sites, revived traditional livelihood practices, protected watershed, wildlife areas and endangered species, and, managed unique, geologic, ecological, archaeological and historical sites, among others. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

Tour of the fireflies convenes 3,000 bikers Liez’l M. Lamasan NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Dec. 4 (PIA6) --- Bikers from Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Cebu, Iloilo, Guimaras and Metro Manila gathered for an advocacy ride which promotes clean air, wildlife, and road discipline.

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ubbed as the 3rd Tour of the Fireflies, the activity was spearheaded by the Negros Occidental Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO), in collaboration with the Firefly Brigade and the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) – Negros Occidental.

The bike tour converged in the municipality of

Hinigaran from two starting points in the cities of Bacolod and Kabankalan.

PENR Officer Edgardo Rostata expressed enthusiasm and hoped that more road cyclists will engage in the Tour of the Fireflies.

Meanwhile, PEM Officer Wilfred Ramon Peñalosa said that the activity served as a platform to educate the local government units (LGUs) of the

necessity for bicycle lanes and to show that road cyclists know how to observe traffic rules.

Firefly Brigade Officer Erik Vergara likewise stressed, “We believe that a healthy environment equates to healthier people.” The Tour of the Fireflies is one of the activities highlighted in the recently concluded Provincial Wildlife Awareness Month. (LML-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

How Aklan ‘Queens’ plan to combat HIV-AIDS By: Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, Dec. 6 (PIA6) -- They are tall than the average female, wearing six inches or more high heeled sandals, which added more to their height. All long-haired, slim and long-legged, they all looked like your typical beauty contestants as they strut on stage in their festival costumes, swimsuit, and evening gowns.

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ctually, they are members of Aklan’s LGBT group and on November 30 at the ABL Sports Complex, Kalibo, Aklan, the twenty (20) of them competed with each other for the title “Queen of Aklan”, the beauty search among Aklan’s most beautiful and talented gay community members who would serve as advocates or spokespersons for the province’ fight against HIV AIDS. The “Queen of Aklan” search was conceptualized by the Butterfly Brigade, a group of gay men in Aklan who has committed to help in the information education campaign on HIV AIDS in the province by arming the public with enough knowledge through information and entertainment, according to Robbie Bastareche, Chairperson.

Almost all municipalities in Aklan had representatives in the beauty search, with Kalibo having the most number.

Most of the candidates used “screen” and catchy names when they introduced themselves to the audience at the start of the contest.

After a grueling 3-hour pageant, the candidate from Altavas, Susan Margaret Garcia, clinched the Queen of Aklan title, who, right after hearing she was the winner, ditched her long wig and had the

crown placed on top of her bare head, because she said she is just being true to herself.

At 46, she was the oldest candidate in the contest.

Completing her court were the candidates from Numancia, second runner-up; from Boracay Island, first runner up; from Kalibo, Aklan, LGBT Queen Tourism; and Malinao, Aklan, Queen for Gender Equality.

In the question and answer portion, the top 5 contestants were asked on how they would treat the issue on the stigma of HIV AIDS while doing their advocacies.

The following day, three of the winners – Garcia, Queen of Aklan; Asia Adriana Ybarra of Malinao, Aklan, Queen for Gender Equality, and Cristina Cassandra Ibarra of Numancia, Aklan, showed up at the province’ program at the lobby of the Provincial Capitol in observance of World AIDS Day. The three were all in supporting the cause of stopping or curtailing HIV AIDS through various strategies.

For Queen Susan Margaret Garcia, she said she is strongly committed to share what she knows

about HIV-AIDS to the public depending on the type of audience she will have on a case to case basis.

On the other hand, Asia Adriana said that as a fashion designer, she could help in the advocacy campaign and at the same time raise funds for the cause, by having her collection of gowns sold, and organizing a fashion show, proceeds of which will be donated to the Provincial Health Office (PHO) to augment the funds for advocacy campaigns.

Meanwhile, Cristina Cassandra committed to give her 100% support in the fight against HIV AIDS. “Let us open our eyes to stop HIV AIDS, before HIV AIDS closes our eyes”, she said.

Records from the Provincial Health Office here show that from June 1986 up to August of this year, Aklan has listed a total of 126 Persons Living With HIV-AIDS in the province.

Of these number, 91 are asymptomatic while 35 are on HIV AIDS conditions. 91 of these are males while 35 are females.

The PHO said of Aklan’s 17 municipalities, only the town of Libacao have no recorded HIV AIDS cases. (JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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DTI, SMEDC recognize ‘green’ enterprises

By Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Dec. 7 (PIA6) – "Green Practices of micro, small and medium enterprises were recognized in Capiz, December 7.

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apiz Trade and Industry Provincial Director Ermelinda Pollentes disclosed that the Pinearts Crafts and Mama Jean’s Mushroom under the small business enterprise category were declared champion and first runner up, respectively.

“Under the medium category, the champion is the College of St. John and the first runner up is the CANESA Sugar Central while The Health Centrum, Inc. is also the champion in the large category,” she

said.

Pollentes said that this year’s Capiz Green Enterprise Award which is on its second year already is spearheaded by the Capiz Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council in coordination with the DTI here.

“This award aims to recognize the Capiz entrepreneurs that practice green strategies and initiatives, strengthen advocacy on environmental p r o t e ct i o n a n d co n s e r va ti o n th r o u g h

environment-friendly practices and initiatives, as well as make greening as a way of life among Capiz businessmen,” she added.

The winners will each receive a trophy, a certificate of recognition and token.

The awarding ceremony coincides with the opening of the Capiz Product Expo at a big mall at Pueblo de Panay, Roxas City as part of the Sinadya 2017:Piyesta De La Immaculada Concepcion celebration. (JCM/JBG/PIA6)

City gov’t steps up efforts against HIV/AIDS By: Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Dec. 4 (PIA6) --- The city government here has intensified its initiatives in strengthening public health awareness and information campaign against HIV and AIDS.

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n the commemoration of the World AIDS Day held Dec. 1 at SM City Iloilo, City Mayor Jose Espinosa III said that the city government, through the City Health Office, has been conducting massive anti-HIV and AIDS advocacies in order to promote the prevention and control of the dreaded disease and to safeguard the well-being of the Ilonggos.

“In Iloilo City we are alarmed with the

increasing number of cases but at the same time we are thankful more people are coming out to seek treatment and counseling,” he said.

He said the city government has been operating the 5/11 Klinika Ilonggo Sundown Clinic in Tanza to serve clients for STI screenings, confidential HIV test, STI/HIV/AIDS education counseling for free.

“It is no longer a silent battle for some,

now that we have a lot of support groups and medical solutions that can ease their conditions,” he said.

He said that the city is also pushing to promote and respect human rights of PLHIVs. Data from the City Health Office showed that from January to November, a total of 77 cases of HIV were recorded while in 2016, only 31 cases were registered. (JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Provincial Convergence tackles Data Privacy Act By: Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique, Dec. 1 (PIA6) - - The Data Privacy Act or Republic Act 10173 was tackled during the meeting of Provincial Convergence Committee spearheaded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development in partnership with the Provincial Government of Antique.

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e Gencianeo, Regional Focal Officer for National Household Targeting System said that the Data Privacy Act which was passed into law in 2012 has impact on data sharing of the Listahanan which contained the list of poor families conducted by DSWD in 2015.

“It is essential for the local government units and other data users to know the law so they could access the data and use it properly according to the purpose,” she said.

Governor Rhodora Cadiao who was also present during the meeting expressed the urgent need for the data on listahanan to be downloaded to the Provincial Government so they could make

the necessary intervention on poor families needing government support.

Aside from the provincial government other agencies of government also need the list like the Department of Health, PhilHealth among other agencies who are targeting to provide services to poor families.

Gencianeo and her team during the meeting discussed some guidelines following the provisions of RA 10173 on how the data could be obtained by the users.

She emphasized that the data to be shared (Listahanan) shall be used for social protection services. They could only access on that data if the guidelines are met.

Gencianeo explained that RA 10173 is an act protecting individual personal information and communication system in government and private sector. It protects the fundamental human rights of privacy of communication while ensuring free flow of information to promote innovation and growth.

National Privacy Commission an independent body that implements and monitors compliance with the law's provisions and standards.

Following a series of consultations held between June and August 2016, The National Privacy Commission (NPC) promulgated the Implementing Rules and Regulations(IRR) of Republic Act 10173 last August 24, 2016. (JCM/PSM/PIA6Antique)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

BIR Cebu City conducts Medium Taxpayers Forum PIA 7 CEBU CITY, Dec. 6 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region No. 13 – Cebu City headed by Regional Director Aynie Mandajoyan-Dizon conducted its Medium Taxpayers Segment (MTS) Forum to orient taxpayers and discuss issues and concerns to maximize their tax compliance.

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he MTS comprises the top 500 taxpayers of the region. They are technically large taxpayers without the requisite notification from the Commissioner of Internal Revenue to be enlisted and classified as such large taxpayer.

The creation of the MTS in the region is largely intended to strengthen and expand the coverage of the Large Taxpayers Service (LTS) of the BIR. During its initial implementation, the project will cover the top 500 non-individual taxpayers of each of the 12 identified regions, including RR No. 13 – Cebu City.

In her discussion of the compliance requirements and status of her region’s medium taxpayers, RD Mandajoyan-Dizon aired her appreciation of the medium taxpayers’ participation, including that of other taxpayers and stakeholders.

She vowed to look after their needs while monitoring their compliance, adding that the segmentation scheme is beneficial to both the BIR

and the medium taxpayers as the tax agency seeks to enhance its revenue collection while the “new segment” aims to achieve better compliance and closer collaboration with the former.

The revenue region has a collection goal of PhP29.381B for 2017 with a total of 1,301,774 registered taxpayers.

Tackling on the compliance of the top 500 taxpayers of the region, RD Mandajoyan-Dizon said the select group contributed PhP4.417 Billion in taxes for the period January to September 2017 as compared to the collection of PhP4.627 Billion for the same period in 2016.

Value Added Tax – registered medium taxpayers are required to submit Summary Lists of Sales, Purchases, and Importations (SLS/P/I).

For the year 2016, 405 submitted their SLS (50 did not comply) while 399 are SLP compliant (56 are not compliant).

Forty-five (45) medium taxpayers are non-VAT

taxpayers and are as such not required to submit SLS/P/I. RD Mandajoyan-Dizon appealed the participants to help the BIR fulfill its mandate while vowing to help them comply with their tax obligations. She ended by saying that she looks forward to a better working relationship with the medium taxpayers.

In her inspirational message, Deputy Commissioner of Internal Revenue (DCIR) Lanee Cui-David, who spoke in behalf of Commissioner Caesar R. Dulay, thanked everyone in the forum for responding to the invitation of the BIR. She said the tax agency is honored and humbled by their presence considering that they really took time to participate. She gave credit to the taxpayers for their part in the BIR’s collection efforts even as she asked them to continue supporting the BIR in collecting taxes to fund the continued existence and operations of the government. (PR)

Negros Oriental’s Sidlakan Star search is on Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Dec. 6 (PIA) – The Negros Oriental Tourism Unit has announced the start of its 7th Sidlakan Star season for the search of aspiring rising star talents.

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his year’s Sidlakan Star auditions will start on December 26 at 7:00pm at Freedom Park stage, Dumaguete City.

Provincial Tourism Unit Head Myla Abellana has encouraged talented Negrenses to try out and share their skills in singing, dancing, acting, among others.

The Sidlakan Star competition is comprised of four categories which include amateur children solo singing aged 14 years old and below; unique amateur talents category; junior group performing arts; and senior group performing arts.

Abellana said the competition will run in three eliminations before the grand finals on December 30 at the Freedom Park.

Grand winners for children solo singing competition will receive P12,000 for 1st place; P8,000, 2nd place; P6,000, 3rd place; and three consolation prizes at P3,000.

For unique Negorense competition, first prize winner will take P12,000; second, P8,000; third, P6,000; and five consolation prizes at P3,000.

Prizes for Junior Group Performing Arts Category (Amateur Level) are: P15,000 for 1st place; P10,000

for 2nd place; P8,000 for 3rd place; and four consolation prizes at P5,000 each.

Senior Group Performing Arts winners will receive P30,000 for 1st place; P20,000 for 2nd place; P15,000 for 3rd place; and two consolation prizes at P10,000 each.

Interested individuals and group of talents may visit the Provincial Tourism Unit at Sidlakang Negros Village to register and look for Ruvilu V. Lumacao or contact 225-1825 and 422- 0675. (jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

26 volunteer tutors attend equipping workshop for free tutorial program Ayin Visitacion CEBU CITY, Dec. 5 (PIA) --- To help students stay in school and address dropout rates, 26 volunteer tutors for the KA•T•ON Barangay Junior Public High School Tutorial Program with Entrepreneurship Exposure went through a whole day of equipping and enabling workshop.

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he 9th Impact Volunteer Tutor Certification Workshop by Barangay Impact Management and Support Services prepared 17 new volunteers and nine returning volunteers in creating a positive learning environment for their tutees.

These volunteers will teach Math and English to students from KA•T•ON’s partner barangays - Brgy.

Luz and Cogon - Ramos of Cebu City and Brgy.

Centro - Mandaue of Mandaue City for ten weeks or for one grading period.

Most volunteers are English as a Second Language (ESL) instructors, English teachers, Math teachers, engineers, and education students such as the likes of Juliena Diaz, a university Math teacher and 2017 Coalition for Better Education Medal of Excellence Awardee.

KA•T•ON is still looking for more volunteer tutors for two other barangays, Guadalupe and Apas.

KA•T•ON Barangay Junior Public High School Tutorial Program with Entrepreneurship Exposure is a free tutorial program that engages with 40 junior public high school students per cycle.

It aims to motivate students in stay in school and decrease dropout rates. (asv/PIA-7-Cebu)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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Dumaguete City set to buy P18.7M lot for sanitary landfill Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, Dec. 1 (PIA) -- Dumaguete City is set to buy a 3.5 hectare lot in Barangay Candau-ay in the amount of P18.7 million to serve as the site for the proposed sanitary landfill.

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ccording to City Information Officer Dems Demecillo, the lot purchase will allow the city government to finally shut down and rehabilitate the open dump site in the same barangay, which has been ordered closed four times by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in 2010, 2014, 2015, and 2016.

Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo is determined to establish the sanitary landfill and decided to negotiate with the lot owners upon learning that their lot is within the industrial zone, making it an ideal site for sanitary landfill.

The city government is optimistic that the facility will ultimately provide a long-term solution to the problem of managing the city's garbage estimated to be at 70 to 80 tons daily.

However, Councilors Jose Victor Imbo, Agustin Miguel Perdices, and Estanislao Alviola expressed

reservations on the purchase and wanted to seek first the approval of DENR. The proposed site is situated at Barangays Candau-ay and Camanjac.

It is also 100 meters from a housing project and 400 meters from Ocoy River.

Demecillo said that as part of the mitigating measures, the city will utilize the first 100 square meters as material recovery facility administrative offices so that the actual landfill will be away from the residential area and body of water.

Demecillo said that for almost a year, the administration was scouting for sites in Sibulan, Bacong, Valencia, Dauin, Zamboanguita, and Siaton, yet none of these towns are willing to host.

He said it is necessary for the city to find a lot within its already small territory and was lucky enough to find a property that is big enough to host

the sanitary landfill, which is neither classified as agricultural nor residential.

Mayor Remollo lauded the City Council for approving the purchase, which would greatly help advance the administration's project to finally establish a sanitary landfill to properly manage the city's garbage.

The city has been penalized to pay P2.5 million for failing to close the dumpsite despite notices way back in 2010 and now the incumbent officials can be sued for their failure to establish a landfill, said Demecillo.

Mayor Remollo said that once the lot will be purchased, public works will follow for the construction of the sanitary landfill using the brand new equipment worth P 40 million which will be bought next year. (jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

Dumaguete City Mayor leads random drug testing Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, Dec. 1 (PIA) -- Dumaguete City has started its random drug testing for more than 1,500 officials and employees in support of the current administration’s fight against illegal drugs.

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ayor Felipe Antonio Remollo has taken the lead and voluntarily submitted to the drug test and said that the city government will request any employee who will test positive from drugs use to undergo rehabilitation program as a pre-requisite for continued employment.

“This is a manifestation of the administration's all out support to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte's relentless campaign against the illegal drugs use and trade with utmost respect to human rights as enshrined in the constitution," Mayor Remollo said.

"Our purpose is to help those who are hapless

victims to drugs abuse and to ensure a drug-free workplace with public servants at the forefront and setting the example," he stressed.

The results of the ongoing random drug tests supervised by the City Peace and Order Council (CPOC), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and City PNP will remain confidential to protect the identities of those who may test positive.

DILG City Director Farah Diba Gentuya made this clarification in order to assuage some concerns of the city employees and officials that their right to privacy might be violated if the results will be bared in public.

Nevertheless, any employee or official who may test positive for illegal drugs use will be notified only after confirmatory tests would yield a similar result.

The CPOC has appropriated funds for the purchase of drug testing kits.

The drug tests remain unannounced, comprehensive, and random with officials and employees having no idea when and where the tests will be conducted.

Even those who will be absent shall be summoned at an unannounced date and time for their turn. (jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

CSC warns against unauthorized use of their logo Juju Manubag-Empuerto CEBU CITY, Nov. 29 (PIA) --- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) Region 7 through the Public Assistance and Liaison Division’s Supervising Personnel Specialist Salve Ilustrisimo issued a warning against the unauthorized use of the CSC logo.

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lustrisimo said that the act may be subjected to criminal prosecution and result in jail time.

According to CSC, its logo has appeared in several civil service examination review materials and that this was done without their authority.

“The CSC wishes to inform the general public that it has not given permission to any individual or entity to use its logo in such materials,” the CSC said in its advisory.

“It also does not sell reviewers or conduct review classes or give permission to any person or entity to undertake the same,” it added.

Unauthorized use of the CSC logo may be a violation of applicable laws, including Article 177 of

the Revised Penal Code.

The said provision reads: “Article 177.

Usurpation of authority or official functions. – Any person who shall knowingly and falsely represent himself to be an officer, agent or representative of any department or agency of the Philippine Government or of any foreign government, or who, under pretense of official position, shall perform any act pertaining to any person in authority or public officer of the Philippine Government, or any agency thereof, without being lawfully entitled to do so, shall suffer the penalty of prisioncorreccional in its minimum and medium periods."

The CSC added that Republic Act No. 9416, also known as the Anti-Cheating Law, prohibits the

unauthorized possession, use, reproduction, and any form of dissemination of examination materials, in whole or in part, by an individual, group, or review center, from an unauthorized source.

This means copying of examination questions, tearing any page of the test booklet, bringing home the test booklet or any of its pages, and other similar instances such as possession of test booklets by review centers, are not allowed.

The CSC said that these are considered acts of cheating punishable by imprisonment of not less than six years and one day but not more than 12 years and a fine of not less than P50,000.00 (jsme/ PIA7-Cebu/CSC-7)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Info officers gather to help support ASEAN integration Nimfa Iluminada B. Quirante BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Dec. 7 (PIA) -- In an effort to gather more information multipliers to advocate ASEAN integration, PIA Eastern Samar gathered Information Officers from local government units and national government agencies.

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ith the 40 invites, 36 came with the commitment.

In her project brief, PIA 8 Officer -in-Charge Alicia Nicart said that the gathering is an initial move for the full implementation of ASEAN Integration these coming years.

Nicart warmly received the IOs saying that their presence in the event shows their commitment to become “partners for change.”

PIA also invited former PIA 8 Regional Director Dr. Aileen V. Candido to lecture on news writing to refresh the information and communication officers on their acquired news writing skills.

In the same event, Acting Gov. Marcelo

Ferdinand Picardal sent Eric Aseo, Information and Communication Specialist, to inform about the province’s “priority development agenda”.

He underscored the significant role the information officers play to realize the “poverty alleviation” projects of the local government.

Likewise, Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Deogracias Paano talked about how the province can compete with the different products coming in due to the integration. He admitted though that a lot of work is still needed to achieve the level on Agri Competitiveness.

Paano expressed enthusiasm that with the deluge of opportunities from the national

government and the local government, the province can. He took special mention of the Cacao production that the province pursues.

Mary Gwyndele Ponferrada of DTI also enumerated the different opportunities that the public can take advantage especially in support to Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (SMEs), livelihood and financial program opportunities towards a rich and economically driven ASEAN Community.

The CDIO/IO ASEAN Training and Conference was held at the Rawis Resort , Borongan City on December 1, 2017. (ajc/nbq/PIA 8-E Samar with Pen Pomida-Radyo Pilipinas)

Maasin City PWDs showcase talents in sports, arts Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Dec. 6 (PIA) -- Around 150 persons-with-disabilities (PWDs) participated in the Sports Festival and Cultural Show held in Maasin City, from December 5 to 6, 2017, city Social Welfare and Development Services Office Focal Person Salvador Valdez reported.

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he two-day activity, according to Valdez was based on the theme, “Karapatan at Pribilihiyong may Kapansanan, Isakatuparan at Ipaglaban.”

The participants were distributed into three teams, namely, Progresibo (Progressive), Positibo (Positive) and Agresibo, (Agressive). Each team competed in athletic sports and cultural/literary/

musical show, Valdez said.

The athletics include discuss throw, shot put, javelin throw, long and high jump, wheel chair race and chess and swimming.

The cultural/musical/literary shows were composed of modern dance, folk dance, balak, drawing, solo and duet singing contest and slogan competitions.

Valdez informed that the awarding of cash incentives and trophy, among others were given immediately after the afternoon activities, December 6.

“This will prepare the winner-participants for the regional competition to be held early next year, Valdez told. (ajc/rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)

DTI-Biliran distributes livelihood starter kits to MSMEs PIA 8 NAVAL, Biliran (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently distributed livelihood starter and reward kits to 447 micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) in the entire province of Biliran.

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nder DTI’s Livelihood Seeding Program (LSP), DTI-Biliran provincial office headed by Engr. Celerina Bato spent P1,931,989.00 for the starter and reward kits in support to the government’s rehabilitation efforts in bringing back to normal the business activities in the entire province of Biliran affected by typhoons.

Some parts of the province were badly hit by Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 and badly hit again

by Typhoons Glenda, Henry, and Ruby in 2014 resulting to damages in properties, government infrastructures and facilities affecting economic activities and delivery of basic social services.

The series of typhoons that tremendously affected MSMEs in the province of Biliran gave impetus to DTI-Biliran to distribute starter kits to 100 affected MSMEs in January 2015.

However, more DTI-registered MSMEs made snail paces to economic recovery urging the agency to support them recover.

In the recent distribution, 65 beneficiaries from the municipality of Almeria received their starter kits; Cabucgayan - 40; Caibiran – 55; Kawayan -52; and Maripipi - 29 for food processing, and making gifts, decors, and housewares.

The municipality of Biliran of 29 beneficiaries received starter kits for food processing and fish trading; the municipality of Culaba of 33 beneficiaries received starter kits for food processing; and the municipality of Naval of 144 beneficiaries received starter kits for food processing; making gifts, decors, and housewares; and cutflower, fruit and fish trading.

The starter kits and reward kits include gas stoves with loaded LPG tank; basin, steamer, pan,

cauldron, corn mill, rice cake molder, ladle, weighing scale, electric sealer, calculator, stapler, floral foam, tray, big native basket (bakat), fish net, rubberized mat (trapal), knife, scissor, pruning shear, fish box, portable grinder with cutter blade, blow torch, measuring tape, electric hand drill, cross cut saw, claw hammer, electric bench grinder, combination pliers, and plaster of paris.

Aside from the starter kits and reward kits, Congressman Rogelio Espina who attended the distribution, informed the recipient-beneficiaries of DTI’s cash assistance with minimal interest compared to private and other lending agencies.

Congressman Espina is hopeful the starter kits and cash assistance DTI extended will serve as catalysts in bringing back normal production and economic activities in their respective areas and sectors. (ajc/FJ/mlt/PIA8 Biliran)

EASTERN VISAYAS

7

SAAD project trains farmers on improving crop production Samuel Candido

BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar (PIA) -- The Special Areas for Agricultural Development (SAAD) project trained some 1,393 farmers in the province on rice, corn and vegetable production under the Farmers Field School (FFS).

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he farmers’ graduation was one of the highlights of the 52nd Founding Anniversary of Eastern Samar as a province.

Deogracias C. Paano, Provincial Agriculturist, said that the training which lasted for 16 weeks, was enough for the farmers to learn modern ways of high value crop production.

The FFS is a hands-on training on methods of production where farmers learn Plan Diseases Management, Plant Morphology (Growth Stages),

Post Harvesting Management and Farm Business Management.

He added that once a week, the farmers and the facilitators of OPAS meet, discuss and evaluate their farms based on the learning from the lectures on land preparation up to harvesting.

Inigo Guarino, 35 years old, a farmer and student of FFS from Hernani town, said that he learned of harmful and helpful insects affecting his plants.

The said training is part of the P25-M first tranche fund of Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) of the P50-M allotted budget for the province under the fiscal year 2016.

The program aims to provide livelihood opportunities, thereby improving farmers marginal income which in turn helps reducing poverty incidence by 20% in 2017 out of the 25% three years reduction target for the Province of Eastern Samar. (ajc/SDC/PIA-E. Samar)

DTI, DA highlights PRRD programs as pillars for ASEAN integration Ailene N. Diaz

CATARMAN, Northern Samar(PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) highlight each agency’s thrusts under the administration of President Rodrigo R. Duterte being pillars for ASEAN integration as presented during the ASEAN Information Kiosk Launching and Small Forum at Provincial Capitol Lobby, province of Northern Samar.

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s he expounds his topic on Rich and Economically –Driven Communities, DTI Provincial Director Stanley Tabiando, stressed the importance of empowering micro enterprises to achieve prosperity for all. Achieving the development goals is through ensuring inclusive business, inclusive growth and addressing income inequality. These interventions, according to Tabiando, will empower those at the bottom of the pyramid and marginalized sector with the right mind set and know how to move up in life.

The role of agriculture, on the other hand as discussed by Ms. Belen De Pedro, Project Evaluation Officer IV of the regional Department of Agriculture,

is to prepare the farmers, fishermen, women and rural youth for the production of various crops, live stocks and fisheries, train them how to process and produce quality products derived from agriculture and make them available for foreign and ASEAN countries.

Further, Northern Samar as one of the poorest provinces of the country is a beneficiary of SAAD (Special Area for Agricultural Development) program concentrated for the production and livelihood of the poorest farmers and communities in the province.

On the first ASEAN Kiosk launching in the province, PIA region 8 officer-in-charge Alicia Nicart,

introduced and presented the overview and project brief of ASEAN Integration to more than 200 participants to include local government leaders, vice-governor, board members, mayors, barangay officials, heads of national and local agencies, students, media, among others.

Message of support was expressed by Vice-Governor Gary Lavin and Board Member Fawa Batula representing the provincial government, Vice-Mayor Butch Bonsol, representing the capital town of the province, Mr. Fermin Honey from the media, Mayor Clarence Datu of the League of Municipalities and Mr. Rei Echano of the Provincial Information Office. (ajc/ADiaz, PIA8-NSamar)

DTI PD’s shares inspiring Korea trip Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte (PIA) -- Before Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Southern Leyte Director Michael B. Nuńez talked on his topic “Understanding the Philippine Economy and the ASEAN Economic Community” in a gathering of businessmen and some other stakeholders in the province, he shared some of his experiences during his Korea trip in coordination with the Philippine KOICA Fellows Association, Inc.

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It is an inspiring story to tell,” PD Nuńez told participants during the Understanding Competition, Industry Development and Market Economy in the Context of ASEAN Integration Forum held at Lourdes Convention Center, Friday here.

He said that it is an inspiring story of political challenge, hard work, passion for learning and the willingness to excel in each field of endeavor, saying that “the outcome is awesome.”

“Korea experienced the challenges of developing countries first hand because it was one of the poorest nations after World War II,” he said. It was through foreign aid and intensive training of human resources that Korea was able to recover from the ashes of the Korean War in the 1950s and

transformed itself into a globally-influential economy today, he added.

Korean people are very disciplined and hardworking, “they will always find ways how to be successful, Nuńez bared.

There are 3 keys how Koreans obtain economic success, he added. First is the leader’s vision, followed by the Korean’s diligence and lastly, financial assistance from the United States.

“They will not stop learning, after classes they went for tutorial, then learn more things how to innovate.”

In a short presentation, Nuńez showed how Korea grew -- from 1960 up to 2010, and how they accomplished economic success.

From Official Development Assistance

-recipient, Korea is now a Donor – from year 2000 with US$0.212 Billion to US$244 Billion donation for year 2016.

Nuńez said that the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) hopes that its technical assistance will similarly have the same stimulus on the growth and development of the Philippines. ICA aims to make a better world together by promoting equitable and sustainable development of its pa Koica aims to make a better world together by promoting equitable and sustainable development of its partner countries. It is also actively participating in the international communities' efforts to enable poor people to improve their quality of life, he said. (ajc/ rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)

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

One Visayas e-newsletter is part of the online news and information dissemination services of PIA and is powered by www.issuu.com. For inquiries and suggestions, call Tel. Nos. (033) 3378719/3377301 or e-mail piaamo6@yahoo.com.

Ms. 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