One visayas enewsletter vol 7 issue 29 20170721 r6

Vol 7

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

With ASEAN inspired costume, PIA Antique joins the parade in celebration of the 39th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week and Social Work Week from EBJ Freedom Park to EBJ Gym Binirayan San Jose this morning. #pia6 #PartnerForChange

July 17 - 23, 2017

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Issue 29

MGB8 intensifies IEC campaign on EV geohazards Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, July 20(PIA) –The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in the region has intensified its Information Education and Communication (IEC) campaign on the different manifestations of geohazards.

The objective is to raise the people's awarenness on the hazards brought about by climate change and prepare them to adapt thereby mitigating the various impacts on their lives.

In a press statement, MGB8 OIC regional director Raul A. Laput said the intensified IEC campaign started in 291 barangays in Leyte and Southern Leyte.

Participants composed of barangay chairmen, members of the barangay disaster risk reduction and management committee and local government officers engaged in series of lectures and discussions to improve

their awareness and preparedness especially in times of calamities as a result of geological processes referred to as geohazards such as flood, landslide, ground subsidence, earthquakes and coastal hazards.

In said occasion, geologist Rodrigo Jay Miralles of MGB8 emphasized the importance of geohazard map to the local leaders to prevent any untoward incidents in their respective jurisdiction and to identify relocation sites or evacuation areas.

MGB8 information officer Celeste Faith S. Dela Cruz said concerned leaders were also advised to activate their municipal/barangay disaster risk reduction management committee and identify volunteers as well.

The IEC campaign in the 1, 400 barangays in Eastern Visayas was incorporated in the annual work program of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.(MGB8/PIA8)

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Department of Agriculture -7 Regional Technical Director for Research Joel Elumba underscored the important role of media in delivering timely and accurate information to those involved in the agriculture sector during the launching of the 11th Bright Leaf Agriculture Awards in Dumaguete City. (PIA7-NEGOR)

DRRM exhibits start at Iloilo mall July 21 Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. ILOILO CITY, July 20 (PIA6) – An exhibit on accomplishments made on government disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) efforts in Western Visayas will open at the Cyberzone of SM City Iloilo tomorrow, July 21 as one of the highlights of the observance of National Disaster Resilience Month in the region.

Office of Civil Defense – 6 Information Officer Cherry Mae Naranjo said the display dubbed Info Booth/ Gallery of Exhibit on DRRM Accomplishments will cover the four thematic areas of DRRM, namely Prevention and Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and Rehabilitation and

Recovery.

The areas or sectors are chaired by the Department of Science and Technology, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and National Economic and Development Authority, respectively. Overall chairperson is OCD. The exhibit is a joint activity of OCD and the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC), which is chaired by OCD-6 Director Rosario Cabrera.

The activity will run until July 30. (JSC/PIA6)

BFAR turns over CFLC to Anda fisher folks More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Allan Joseph Borrinaga (holding microphone), manager, institutional services department, BILECO, gives detailed information during his radio guesting at PIA Kapihan at Pulong-Pulong ng Bayan over Radyo Natin-Naval on Thursday, July 20, to BILECO member-consumers and the listening public on the power situation in the entire area coverage of BILECO specifically on the scheduled rotational brownouts and some power situation updates. He is joined by Engr.

Edrich Sacare (sitting beside him), BILECO sub-station and special line equipment engineer and Ann-Marie Meracap ( not in the picture), BILECO member services division head. (rvictoria/PIA Biliran)

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

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Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, July 8 (PIA) - - Efforts to make fish accessible and affordable to Boholanos continue as the government is set to turn over a multi-million-peso infrastructure that would conveniently allow fishermen to land their fish catch locally.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is set to turn over a P3 million Community Fish Landing Center (CFLC) in the tourist town of Anda, Bohol anytime soon, according to BFAR Information Officer Nimfa Mesina.

During the recent meeting of the Association of United Development Information Officers (AUDIO) of which she is a member, Mesina said the government would turn over the facility to local officials who would in turn turn over the facility to a local fishermen's organization. Observers have affirmed what most Boholanos complained about: while Bohol sits in a vast marine treasure trove, it has Visayas' most expensive fish in its markets.

Although people say the absence of capital and the presence of loan sharks compounded the alleged monopoly of the local fishing industry. Boholanos still need to see to it that the CFLC could do something about the high fish price.

BFAR Bohol Officer Leo Bongalos, in a separate statement, added that the CFLC is a common designed two -storey facility that incorporates fish drying areas, stall spaces, administrative offices, and refrigeration facilities. The Anda CFLC is among the eight bagsakan centers which the BFAR gave to Bohol towns as incentive for facilitated registration of industry stakeholders.

Given and funded last year, the Anda CFLC would be the 6th of such facilities erected from the 2016 funds, while construction of two more facilities in Ubay and in Baclayon

is still ongoing, Mesina updated information officers during the regular organization's information sharing.

In 2016, BFAR funded P2.8 million to each of the towns of Inabanga, Tubogon, Clarin, Calape, President Carlos P. Garcia, Anda, Baclayon and Ubay of the CFLC building construction while LGU recipients gave in P.2 million worth of lot as counterpart.

As this transpired, BFAR also released funds for its 2017 CFLC projects, two of which are already being erected at the moment, according to Mesina.

For 2017, she said BFAR also gave Bohol towns funds for six more towns: Getafe, Talibon, Loon, Lila, Panglao, and Dauis. As to Getafe and Talibon CFLC, construction is now ongoing while the facilities in Loon, Lila, Panglao have been awarded to contractors who would soon start with the construction, the information officer relayed.

For Dauis, Mesina said the project is already on bidding process. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

The P3 million Community Fish Landing Center (CFLC) in the tourist town of Anda, Bohol. (PIA Bohol photo

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WESTERN VISAYAS

WV crime volume dips by 8.5% Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, July 19 (PIA6) --decreased by 8.5 percent.

The Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 reported that crime volume in Western Visayas

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his figure is lower by 3,410 incidents or a drop of 8.5 percent as compared to the 40,100 crime incidents registered from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016.

PRO-6 data also showed there was a significant decrease of index crimes with 8,582 recorded incidents which is 21.02 percent lower compared to the 10,866 incidents reported the previous year.

On the distribution of Index Crime per province/city, the CIRAS also revealed that index crimes also declined in majority of provinces and

cities in Western Visayas.

Iloilo City‟s index crimes dropped by 31.56 percent – from 2,940 (July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016) to 2,012 (July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017).

Iloilo province‟s index crimes were at 2,069 cases, a 24.57-percent drop from 2,743 the previous year.

Capiz‟s index crime also decreased by 26.62 percent – from 1,626 the previous year to 1,193 this year.

Antique‟s index crime this year posted a

28.57-percent drop – 770 for the period July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016, to 550 (July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017).

The province of Guimaras recorded 252 index crimes from July 1, 2016 to June this year, which was a 32.44 percent drop from the previous year‟s 373 cases.

Only the province of Aklan increased in its index crimes by 3.67 percent – from 2,414 (July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016) to 2,506 (July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017). (JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

PWD project gets P.9M Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) - - The Association of Persons with Disabilities in Bugasong, Antique received the total amount of P918, 320 from the Department of Labor and Employment.

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tty. Johnson Canete, the newly installed Regional Director of DOLE 6 personally handed over the check to Milagros F. Villeta, President of the PWD Association in a simple program at Bugasong Municipal Gym on July 19, 2017.

Canete assured the recipients - persons with disabilities that the government is committed to support them as long as they are determined to sustain their livelihood venture to augment their income.

He also commended the support of Mayor John Lloyd Pacete and other local officials for empowering PWDs and making them economically sustainable.

“If we are giving PWDs the opportunity to earn more, it would mean that they will not become dependent of government assistance instead they will have source of income to help other PWDs in need,”

Canete said.

Pacete for his part thanked DOLE for the help extended to PWDs. “The support we have availed is a manifestation of how the government cared for the disadvantaged groups such as PWDs,” he said during the turn over ceremony.

DOLE‟s Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) is a grant assistance for capability building on livelihood for the working poor, vulnerable marginalized workers, either for individual or group projects.

The amount released to PWDs in Bugasong is for the Enhancement of Canteen and its Catering Services which was previously given a starting capital of P200, 000 in 2011.

Villeta in her response expressed a deep gratitude to the government for giving them the financial support to help them purchase additional restaurant equipment, kitchen tools and raw

materials.

“The support you have given us goes beyond financial provision; it has also encouraged us to do our best in making our project sustainable and empower us to help others,” Villeta said.

There are 61 beneficiaries who could directly benefit from the project and more than 500 more PWDs who are indirect beneficiaries.

Present during the program are DOLE Provincial Director Lorraine Villegas, Public Employment Service Officer (PESO) President for Region 6 Rani Rodriguez and other local officials and DOLE employees.

The turn over ceremony was also in line with the celebration of the 39th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week with the theme “Karapatan at Prebelehiyo ng may Kapansanan Isakatuparan at Ipaglaban.” (JCM/PSM/ PIA6Antique)

10 exhibitors join display of life-saving gears Alex A. Lumaque ROXAS CITY, Capiz, July 20 (PIA6) – Ten exhibitors that included volunteer groups, government responding units and offices joined the recently concluded two – day ―Display of Rescue Equipment and Photo Exhibit‖ at the College of Saint John – Roxas in view of the National Disaster Resilience Month celebration.

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he initiative, now on its fourth year, was organized by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) to showcase the exhibitors capability in terms of equipment, training and manpower in managing disasters.

PDRRM Officer Esperedion C. Pelaez said that the showcase search, rescue and response equipment on disaster management was participated in by Roxas City DRRMO, Scan Civic Capiz, Capiz State University (CAPSU) DRRM, Kabalikat Civicom

371 – Roxas City Chapter, Philippine Coast Guard, Phil. Army‟s 61st Infantry “Hunter” Battalion, Philippine Red Cross – Capiz Chapter and Bureau of Fire Protection.

The Philippine Information Agency‟s information kiosk on Association of Southeast A si an Na tio ns (A SEA N) a s w el l as government programs and services was among the exhibitors.

The same activity was also staged by PDRRMO at CAPSU – Roxas City main campus, Capiz National

High School and Hercor College – Lawaan, Roxas City campus in view of then National Disaster Consciousness Month Celebration for 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively.

Among the equipment displayed were two-way radio facilities, firetrucks, fire extinguishers, rescue boats, life jackets, ambulance, flashlights, spot and search lights, sirens, breathing apparatus, ropes, rechargeable batteries, chain saw, solar panels and first aid as well as emergency kits, among others.

(JCM/AAL/PIA6 Capiz)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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Aklan‘s Best Brigada Eskwela Implementers out Sheila Q. Patoza KALIBO, AKLAN, July 19 (PIA) – The Department of Education-Aklan recently named this year‘s Best Brigada Eskwela Implementers for secondary and elementary levels in the province.

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he Search for 2017 Brigada Eskwela in Aklan was conducted from May 15 to 20, 2017, with this year‟s theme,”Isang DepEd, Isang Pamayanan, Isang Bayanihan Para sa Handa at Ligtas na Paaralan.”

Winners of the Search for Best Brigada Eskwela this year were categorized both levels under Large, Medium, and Small, with the addition of Mega School Implementers category in the elementary level.

In the Large Secondary School, the best brigada eskwela implementers in Aklan was awarded to the Regional Science High School located in Kalibo; came in second place was Libacao National Forestry Vocational High School; and tied in third place were the Altavas National School and Buruanga Vocational School.

Under the Medium Secondary School, the Dr. Ramon B. Legaspi Sr. National High School in Makato was declared as first place; followed by Kinalangay

Viejo Integrated School in Malinao and Father Juan C. Rago National High School in Balete for second and third place, respectively.

The Bakhaw Norte Integrated School in Kalibo was the winner under the small secondary category; while the Lupo National High School in Altavas got the second place.

Meanwhile, the Kalibo Pilot Elementary School was declared the best implementer in Mega Elementary School category. Makato Integrated School won the second place and Numancia Integrated School got the third place.

In the Large Elementary School category, the first placer was the New Washington Elementary School; while the Kalibo Integrated Special Education Center as the second placer; and Libacao Central School won the third place.

The winner of the best implementer for Medium Elementary School was the Linabuan Norte

Elementary School (Kalibo). Both in second place were the Quirico Tabanera Elementary School (Makato) and Tinigaw Elementary School (Kalibo); while Rosal Elementary School (Libacao) got the third place;.

On the other hand, Aliputos Elementary School (Numancia) named as best implementer in the Small Elementary School category and the Calimbajan-Tina Elementary School (Makato) in second place. The Regador Elementary School (Ibajay) and Dina-ut Elementary School (Altavas) tied for third.

According to DepEd-Aklan, the best implementing schools in the province were evaluated based on their scope of work, diverse volunteer participation, creativity and innovation, increment of resources and volunteers, alignment to Brigada Eskwela 2017 theme and generated resources.(JCM/ SQP/PIA Aklan)

Iloilo City eyes ‗SMART excellence‘ tag Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, July 18 (PIA6) --- Iloilo City eyes to become a premiere ‗SMART City of Excellence‘ as it recently launched the 40-day celebration of the city‘s 80th Charter Day.

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MART stands for Services, Manufacturing and agri-business, Arts and culture, Research and technology, and Tourism, as these are priority potential areas of investments and inclusive growth that benefit the people.

City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said the city government‟s commitment and dedication to good governance and exemplary public service will be sustained.

“For 80 years, we have seen the significant, meaningful, beautiful, peaceful and progressive changes that have happened in the city,” he said.

However, he stressed that there are still more things to be done and all of these could only materialize if each one of us will continue to cooperate, participate and collaborate in order for us to achieve our dream to make Iloilo a premier SMART city of excellence.

He encouraged all the Ilonggos to work together in the programs and activities in order for Iloilo City to reach this vision.

“We have to help one another because being united and making good plans for the city and doing what is morally right rather than what is politically correct, I am quite sure that our beloved

city and the Ilonggos have nowhere to go but up,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Charter Day celebration kicked off with a parade on July 17, participated in by city government officials and employees, schools, and barangay officials.

This year‟s big event, which will culminate on August 25, banners the theme "Celebrating 80 Years of Ilonggo Culture and Pride."

Malacañang, through Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, issued Proclamation No. 253 declaring August 25 as a special non-working holiday in Iloilo City. (JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

PWDs hold Paralympics 2017 Easter Anne D. Doza BACOLOD CITY, July 20 (PIA6) - - Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Bacolod City, in celebration of the 39th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week held games for persons with disabilities known as Paralympics at the University of St. La Salle‘s Covered Court, July 19.

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articipants came from the different barangays of Bacolod City namely barangays Handumanan, Alijis, Mandalagan, Bata, Villamonte, Taculing, Tangub, Felisa, Estefania, among others.

Sitting Volleyball, Powerlifting, Table Tennis for orthopedically challenged, running and swimming for the hearing and visually impaired were the events

played during the Paralympics.

Barangay Handumanan was adjudged over-all champion in this year‟s Paralympics where the team topped the sitting volleyball, powerlifting and table tennis events.

In 2015, Barangay Handumanan, through its Handumanan Association of PWDs or HAPs, was also adjudged as the Most PWD-Friendly barangay in

Bacolod City.

HAPs was organized in 2006 and was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission in January of 2012.

To date, HAPs has a total of 150 registered PWD-members holding office at the Barangay Gymnasium. *(JCM/EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

4 Dumaguete City accomplishments

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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one-year

Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY(PIA) -- Dumaguete City Mayor Felipe Antonio ―Ipe‖ Remollo presented the accomplishments of his first year in office, although he said he would have wanted to be assessed on his third year as some of the problems besetting the city are almost more than a decade old and can‘t be solved overnight.

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We have spent the first 12 months of my term planning and negotiating with concerned lot owners and private investors to build the new government center and its support facilities away from the crowded downtown area,” Remollo said.

The mayor was also pre-occupied in negotiating and securing the donation of lots for road widening in the following areas --- Junob-Bajumpandan road, the road leading to Colon extension at the back of Foundation University, the road leading to Taclobo spillway and metro-dumaguete diversion road in Cadawinonan among other road opening and widening projects to further decongest traffic.

Among his major accomplishments included the construction of 38 infrastructure projects by the City Engineer‟s Office to include health centers, day care centers, school buildings, electrical facilities and waterline systems in all the city‟s 30 barangays.

Forty-seven projects like concreting of roads, drainage systems, box culverts, flood control, dikes, seawalls, footbridges, sports facilities have also been fully implemented. Construction of evacuation centers, drainage canals, roads, boulder dikes and other infrastructure projects have either been completed or moving at a faster pace.

There are 27 on-going infrastructure projects worth P38 million to be completed in the next quarter of this year.

Meanwhile, major investors are currently finalizing their plans to jointly build and develop via Private-Public-Partnership or PPP to remodel the public market complex into a modern multi-storey air conditioned building with underground parking and waste water treatment facility.

Mayor Remollo was also able to secure P 50 million from the National Museum for the restoration of the city hall to be converted into a regional museum The provincial government also allocated P 30 million for the multi-purpose building that will be located in the new government center. In the pipeline is the bidding for the lease of CCTV system with 350 cameras for all 30 barangays that would proceed as soon as the City Council approves Mayor Remollo‟s request for funding.

Two garbage compactors and several trucks will be purchased to boost garbage collection while negotiations for the lot where the sanitary landfill will be located is going on in earnest as Mayor Remollo reiterated his vow to shut down the Candau-ay open dump site within his first term.

He has also directed a crackdown on illegal vendors, noisy mufflers and undocumented drivers to boost road safety. Crimes and threats to peace and order have been kept low and at bay with the full cooperation of the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, Philippine Ports Authority, Coast Guard and

barangay officials.

His policy on good governance and transparency resulted to a zero Notice of Disallowance by the Commission on Audit as the numerous transactions have been deemed above board. He has also given up the P 6 million intelligence fund, an entitlement for local chief executives, as he considered intelligence funds as unnecessary and prone to corruption.

Instead, he allotted the P 6 million to augment the budgets serving the welfare of the senior citizens, women, children, youth and sports. In his bid to turn the city into the next sports tourism hub in this part of the country, Mayor Remollo hosted the conduct of Unigames, Regional Palaro, Little League Philippines, the biggest ever Bangkarera and the Dragon Boat Race while the city‟s Sandurot entry won 3rd place during the Sinulog Festival.

He also launched the weekly „play and learn sports for free‟ with the Philippine Sports Commission at the Quezon Park every Saturday morning for young and old alike. Later next month, Remollo will lead the maiden Cebu Pacific flight for Davao-Dumaguete route as this development is expected to boost tourism and trade activities.

Jobseekers are encouraged to visit the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), which is under the mayor‟s office, for job matching. (fcr/jct/PIA7-Negros)

Battle of the Brains in Negros Island up Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL(PIA) -- The Energy Development Corporation (EDC) announced its second year Battle of the Brains (BOTB) to help the youth in Negros Island learn more about renewable energy, biodiversity, and the environment.

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ollowing last year‟s successful inaugural competition where Bago City College emerged as champions among 18 schools that competed in the grand finals, the Battle of the Brains is set for a bigger round, this time for high school students in August. With the theme “Renewable Energy for a Brighter Future,” the 2017 BOTB aims to focus on spreading important information about renewable energy (RE). According to EDC Corporate Communications Officer Frances Ariola, student-participants will need to familiarize themselves with every aspect of the topic such as on how the many forms of RE work, RE‟s impact on our lives, and its‟ incredible benefits, including its central role in fighting climate change.

This year, the scope of the contest has expanded

to cover several elimination rounds to be held throughout August in Bago, Bacolod, Kabankalan, Dumaguete, and Bais. High school students will compete to see who will be able to reach the prestigious BOTB Grand Finals in Dumaguete City in September.

The winners of the contest will receive cash prizes, and bring prestige to their school, said Ariola.

Ariola said the quiz bee aims to empower the youth of Negros. “Not only the participants, but also the audiences of the island-wide event will be able to add to their knowledge.

It is organized by geothermal leader Energy Development Corporation (EDC), with the assistance of DRINK Editorial and Design, in the hope that by studying the benefits of renewable energy, more young Filipinos

will understand its importance to the country,” Ariola explained.

Registration is open until July 16; thus, the EDC has called interested students or schools to register because only limited slots are available. Details and mechanics can be found on the Positive Energy Negros F acebook page: h ttps://www.fac ebook.com / PositiveEnergyNegros.

EDC is the world's largest vertically integrated geothermal company and the only diversified renewable energy firm in the country. The company has been powering infinite possibilities in Negros Oriental for 35 years now by harnessing geothermal energy, the only form of RE that can provide sustainable power 24 hours a day, rain or shine, all year round. (fcr/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental}

Use of cellphones, gadgets while driving a violation Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY (PIA) -- The implementation of the law on anti-distracted driving may be suspended as yet, but Land Transportation Office (LTO) insists that the use of mobile phones and similar gadgets while on the steering wheel is still illegal.

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TO Information Officer Florencio Balazuela said the use of cellphones while driving is still a form of reckless driving and is punishable under Republic Act 4136.

RA 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code of the Philippines, defines the policies in the operation of land transportation and the conduct of vehicles and their drivers while on any public and private roads in the country. In a public advisory, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has defined reckless driving as over-speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving.

The law defines reckless driving as “the act of operating a motor vehicle without reasonable caution considering the width, traffic, grades, crossing, curvatures, visibility and other conditions of the highway and the conditions of the atmosphere and weather, or

so as to endanger the property or the safety or rights of any person, or so as to cause excessive or unreasonable damage to the highway.”

Over this, the DOJ rule that "every time a person operates a motor vehicle in violation of traffic rules, at the risk of harming others and with less than the full attention, focus and skill required of every driver, he is driving recklessly."

Lastly, distracted driving is “the act of operating a motor vehicle while, at the same time, focusing one‟s attention on other activities not related to driving,” including using mobile phones. To avoid such offenses, the DOJ advised motorists not to engage in distracting activities while driving, being careful when driving through accident-prone areas, and being vigilant.

Explaining the essence of the law during the

weekly Kapihan sa PIA, Balazuela clarified that in the suspension of the Anti Distracted Driving Act, or RA 10913, the LTO would be stricter on the usage of mobile phones and gadgets while the vehicle is in motion. Violations against reckless driving, including distracted driving, according to RA 4136, is punishable with a fine of P2,000, LTO said.

The suspended law, however, states that those found to be distracted while driving would be fined P5,000 for the first offense, plus confiscation of license, Balazuela affirmed.

By the second offense, a driver could be fined P10,000 while for the third offense, a driver could be fined P15,000 and for a habitual offender, the LTO reserves the right to suspend the license or a full revocation of the diver's privileges. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

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Tourism stakeholders gather for crisis mgt forum Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL (PIA) -- About 100 tourism stakeholders in Negros Oriental recently gathered for a forum on Crisis Management initiated by the Department of Tourism-7 (DOT7) to prepare and anticipate on how to deal with the threat of terrorism in Central Visayas.

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IC Regional Director Judy Gabato of DOT7 said the tourism industry in the region is susceptible to such negative occurrence amid the ongoing conflict in Marawi City and the military clashes with the Abu Sayyaf bandits in Bohol last April putting the sector under threat of a crisis.

Safety and security is the new order of tourism destinations as Gabato said “this is the way to assist tourism businesses in dealing with crisis by reducing the vulnerability and it is an important challenge that tourism industry is facing.”

John Ray Saavedra, communications officer of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas (OPAV) who represented Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino read the latter‟s message. Dino cited two important advocacy initiatives which are on the proposed creation of the Visayan Sea Inter-Agency Task Force and One Visayas Corridor of Development of Change (One VisDAC).

PA Dino plans to institutionalize the inter-agency task force that intends to safeguard

the seas and coastlines in the Visayas against immersion of terrorists and lawless elements.

In his statement, a memo of understanding would be signed for the stakeholders or law enforcement agencies which serve as a framework that will prevent terrorists and other illegal activities from navigating the region‟s seas and coastal areas.

“It will be a strict implementation of the maritime safety laws, rules and regulations. Policy needs to implement the registration of sea vessels below three gross tonnage or utilize for fishing in the municipal office or the city hall to prevent smaller sea crafts being utilize by terrorists,” sated PA Dino.

The Purok system will be activated or „neighborhood watch‟ for barangay residents to be vigilant and report to the authorities on any suspicious looking people new to their neighborhood, Dino said.

PA Dino also pointed out the „One BIsDAC‟ which seeks to harmonize Visayas-wide development prospective, coordinates and integrates Visayas agenda, initiative programs, projects and activities.

PA Dino illustrated the need to bond together as „Visayas‟ in order to have a common voice when it comes to budget, infrastructure projects, peace and order programs, agriculture, socio-economic and investment plans and tourism industry.

“Let me take tourism as one component of this corridor of development as we start the campaign „Visayans, Visits the Visayas,‟ that we Visayans should patronize our own tourist destinations first before other places to boost the tourism industry in the Visayas and foster unity among us; and use the social media in promoting our own tourist destinations here,” Dino urged.

The Tourism Stakeholders Forum on Crisis Management is designed by DOT in cooperation with the provincial government of Negros Oriental to provide guidelines and accurate process to all private stakeholders and local government units in dealing with crisis situations which may threaten tourists and interfere with the tourism growth in the province. (fcr/ jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)

Interagency TF in Siquijor pushed amid terror threats Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR (PIA) -- Siquijor province is insurgency-free but it is not exempted from terror threats, said Philippine Navy Capt.

Jorge Ibarra, commander of the Joint Task Group Deter of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

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his was said during the interagency workshop on Security held on Tuesday, July 4 at Salagdoong Beach Resort in Maria, Siquijor.

The workshop sought to review and evaluate the different law enforcement agencies structure and its operating concepts in the province of Siquijor; establish command and support relationship of the interagency structure on security; and to establish an effective interagency communication network.

Ibarra said Siquijor can be the eyes and ears of terrorism so that the best effort we can do is to secure the area and keep it free from terrorism, he said.

Ibarra however, assured the public that Siquijor is

currently part of the areas being patrolled by Navy vessels with its 24/7 seaborne patrols even prior to the Inabanga, Bohol incident.

The Siquijor Police Provincial Office (SPPO) also lent its support as even before the clash between the government troops and ASG in Bohol happened, the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) had sent two teams composed of 15 augmented personnel who were deployed to beach resorts particularly in San Juan which is right across Mindanao.

Aside from the RPSB team, another platoon from the AFP was deployed which is enough to protect the island, SPPO Deputy Director for Operations Enrique

Belcina said.

Despite the terror threats, Siquijor generally remains peaceful and safe, Belcina said.

While pushing for the creation of a joint task force on security in Siquijor, Ibarra also asked the support of the local communities particularly in the information collection.

Ibarra added that priority efforts with a series of meetings with stakeholders are made to secure the island and deter possible attacks. He said all Philippine Navy vessels are seen patrolling the sea at all times.

They only dock at the port at certain times to re-fuel or get provisions, he said. (fcr/rac/PIA7-Siquijor)

AirJuan seaplanes to service resorts Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY (PIA) -- So how do you like a vacation with an air service that picks you from your closest airport to that dream island too far from any commercial runway?

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here is now a seaplane offered by the country's pioneering company that provides fast and efficient hassle-free air service to less-chartered destinations.

And for tourists and Bohol businessmen, this just might be a tempting offer boosting Bohol's allure to the world.

The seaplanes offered by AirJuan, a duly licensed scheduled airline accredited by the country's tourism department, are Cessna Grand Caravan Amphibians which are brand new nine-seater versatile and reliable aircraft that can take off and land on short runways or the sea, according to AirJuan President John Gutierrez a few minutes after a 20-minute flyby and sea-landing near Alona Beach in Panglao on June 7.

At the inaugural flight to announce the opening of their 20-minute flight options for Tagbilaran-Mactan route, Gutierrez said they have applied for twice daily trips to and from Tagbilaran and offers the air service starting June 19.

With today's time conscious tourists and businessmen needing valuable time, a plane service that

cuts Tagbilaran-Cebu-Tagbilaran to just twenty minutes from two hour fastcraft service plus allows passengers to skip from the long queues at airports almost guarantees on time performance in their flights.

"We are 95% on time, you can ask Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines," AirJuan Marketing Head Paolo Misa said. "Besides, most delays are caused by airport traffic," he added.

Opening the route at an introductory fare of P1,500 one way until the end of the year, the cost is a bit more than the fastcraft business class.

"If more people use it and we load our seats, we just might be able to keep the price," said Gutierrez, who added that they would introduce the Bohol routes with thrice weekly flights and weekend flights to Bohol from their Cebu South Reclamation Project docks, straight to Panglao.

AirJuan also serves other destinations like Puerto Princesa, Busuanga, El Nido, and Cuyo in Palawan, Caticlan, Subic, Baler in Aurora, Balesin in Quezon, Puerto Galera in Batangas, Marinduque, and Mamburao.

Also under their route radars are nearby island

destinations like Bantayan, Malapascua, Calanggaman, Siquijor and Sicogon in Ilo-Ilo, Misa said.

The service can be brought straight close to a beach resort of choice so arriving hassle-free is an add-on, he added.

At the inaugural flight with Bohol tourism stakeholders on board, the Cessna flew for a scenic Panglao tour, less than 2,000 feet and then skimmed in front of Alona then took off again.

"We were set to do this in Alona to show we can bring tourists directly to the beaches," the first Filipino seaplane pilot Ian delos Reyes said during the post-flight product presentation.

Now accepting bookings via their newly opened 24/7 booking engine at www.airjuan.com, AirJuan Customer Service Specialist Glenda Corvera said they would also be inviting local online travel agents to help them fill the seats.

As this developed, passengers now have better chances of catching their connecting flights from Cebu, as a slight ill weather stops boat trips which are crucial links to a seamless travel in the region. (rahc/PIA-7/ Bohol)

6

EASTERN VISAYAS

Calbayog dad hails PIA-ASEAN kiosk in key cities Ninfa B Quirante CALBAYOG CITY, Samar, July 18 (PIA) — "By empowering our people through information we also provide opportunity for them to make informed choices."

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his was the message of Calbayog City Mayor Ronald Aquino in his opening remarks at the PIA-ASEAN Information Kiosk launch and forum last week.

Aquino added that he believes in the ASEAN spirit, that the region represented by the ASEAN is brimming with potential.

"The strong economic growth it has shown over the years is now gaining attention from the rest of the world."

He commended the PIA for establishing information kiosks throughout the nation to raise public awareness to empower the people as active members of the ASEAN. Aquino also mentioned that the ASEAN dream is to establish a region which can stand on its own

feet, strong enough to defend itself against any negative influence from outside the region.

"To pursue that dream member countries must do their respective share in building strong local economies that are sustainable and supportive of the regional vision."

The local chief executive hailed the national government in its effort to promote the interests of ASEAN through empowering the people through information, with the provision of the information kiosks in key cities.

"By empowering our people through information, we also provide opportunity for them to make informed choices, as a result, they become more active in nation building and their engagement is more vigorous, if not patriotic."

He then challenged the multi-sectoral reps who attended the forum to support the national government in its ASEAN chairmanship.

"ASEAN has come a long way, and much has yet to be done. As a member country of this regional consortium of nations, we too still have a lot of work to do."

"Being informed is just one of the many tasks we have to undertake. But it is a task that will empower people, make them aware of the role they will play in nation building. " Resource Speakers from DTI, PNP, PDEA and DSWD enriched the ASEAN forum in Calbayog City by their presentations on matters related to ASEAN and the opportunities they bring. (nbq/PIA 8-Samar)

DOST 8 accepts applications for 2017 Scholarships Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, July 19 (PIA) - - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Science Education Institute (SEI) announces the availability of Science and Technology Undergraduate Scholarship Program, Provincial S & T Director Florita M. Santiago said.

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he said that the S & T scholarships are now open to high school graduating class who wish to pursue priority fields of study in the sciences, mathematics and engineering.

There are two open program categories where students may apply namely; 1) RA 7687 scholarship, which provides scholarship to talented

students whose family‟s socio-economic status does not exceed the set values of certain indicators as approved by the Advisory Committee on S & T Scholarships; and the DOST-SEI Merit Scholarships awarded to deserving students whose socio-economic status extends the said indicators.

Santiago said that the application forms and

information brochures can be downloaded at http:// www.science-scholarships.phor can be secured in DOST-Southern Leyte office at the Capitol Site, Barangay Asuncion, Maasin City.

She added that the deadline for filing of application is on August 25, 2017 and the examination date that falls on October 15, 2017. (rgc/PIA-SoLeyte)

Cut trees due to road widening to be replaced Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, July 19(PIA) – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) entered into a memorandum of agreement to implement the Tree Replacement Project of the office.

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he purpose of the project is to replace every naturally growing tree that are cut down as a result of the road widening project of DPWH in Eastern Visayas.

DENR regional director Leonardo R. Sibbaluca said the planting 364, 200 seedlings as replacement for the fallen trees, due to road widening project is ongoing.

A copy of a press statement released by DENR‟s regional public affairs office chief Maita Reina G. Sucgang informed that more than Php15 million had been allocated by DPWH for the tree

replacement activities that will be implemented by the DENR through its field offices in Palo, Albuera, Catbalogan and Maasin.

DENR assistant regional director for technical services Carlito Tuballa said that the ratios 1:100 and 1:50 will be adopted for the project to accelerate the efforts for the National Greening Program and to support the climate change mitigation initiative of the government.

The road widening project in Ormoc, Tacloban, MacArthur, Burauen; all in Leyte, Catbalogan in Samar and Sogod and Macrohon in

Southern Leyte caused the cutting of 3,097 trees with the issuance of a Special Tree Cutting Permit by the DENR. Meanwhile, various people‟s organization accredited by DENR will be responsible for the site preparation, seedling production, planting and maintenance of the planted seeds to ensure its survival.

Trees cut due to road widening will be donated to other agencies prioritizing the Department of Education for the production of chairs and desks and local government units.(DENR8/PIA8)

EASTERN VISAYAS

7

CENRO cites fish vendor for marine turtle conservation Erna Gorne PADRE BURGOS, Southern Leyte, July 18 (PIA) - For taking care, feeding hundreds of newly hatched sea turtles, one fish vendor here was acclaimed as hero in marine turtle conservation.

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ccording to Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Officer Alexander Casco of DENR Southern Leyte, sea turtles are critically endangered specie not only in the Philippines but across the globe.

In a simple ceremony at their barangay hall, Samuel Ebuenga, fish vendor, who hails from Sta. Sofia, Padre Burgos was recognized in simple ceremonies as hero for taking care of the newly hatched -102 sea turtles, together with the barangay officials, municipal heads and the barangay residents, who also joined in releasing the said turtles.

The said sea turtles were identified among the Hawksbill specie. For 33 days, Ebuenga fed the newly hatched sea turtles twice a day. These were hatched right along the shorelines where their house was located in Sta. Sofia last June 2017.

It was learned that the fisherman was able to release a total og 277 pieces of sea turtles to the sea since February this year, first batch of which were 110 pieces then followed by 65 more sea turtles, released with the assistance of the Municipal Agricultureâ€&#x;s Office of PadreBurgos.

Today, another 102 pieces of sea turtles were

released with the assistance of the officials of the CENRO-Maasin to the natural habitat of the marine asset.

Meanwhile, CENRO Supervising EMS Officer Edilberto Alcarde enlightened the group during the releasing ceremony that sea turtles play as janitors of the seas. Sea turtles, he shared, eat up the jelly fish floating, and devour the red algae that causes red tide which is becomes prevalent nowadays. They also cleanse the sponges that threatens to cover the corrals and eat up young crown of thorns. (esg/PIA 8 SoLeyte)

Army scores anew, recovers IEDs in Samar Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, 18 July (PIA) — The Philippine Army scored anew when it discovered improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Sitio Wespal, Barangay Guirang, Basey, Samar recently.

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n a report by 1Lt Cherry M Junia of the 8th ID, it said that the combined forces of the 801st Brigade and the 87th Infantry Battalion discovered 19 IEDs technically known as CDX -2016 during a strike operation in the area mentioned.

The army further reported that based on intelligence reports, the IEDs will be used to cause trouble before and after the President delivers the

State of the nation Address (SONA) on July 24, 2017.

Major General Raul Farnacio in a statement condemned the insurgents for the manufacture of IEDs which he claims is a clear violation of the provisions of Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHIHL) and the rule of law.

"We commend the people of Basey for helping us recover these IEDs," added Farnacio.

"We look forward to a continuous partnership that could help us in preventing evil activities towards the attainment of peace and development in the whole Eastern Visayas," the highest army official in the region said. (nbq/ PIA 8-Samar with 1Lt. Cherry M. Junia/DPAO 8th ID, Philippine Army)

Lamiraw marks 14th year Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, 18 July (PIA) - The University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) hosted the 14th Lamiraw Creative Writing Workshop on July 8 to 10, 2017.

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ome 12 fellows were chosen to join in the said event in cooperation with Katig Writers Network Inc. and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

In a message, Harold Mercurio, lead convener said that the process of choosing the fellows is through the written poems, short stories or feature articles, materials with great potentials.

In an interview, Milen Esteria, an Inabaknon fellow said that in her three times to join the workshop, her skill in writing poetry using their Inabaknon language is developed. It is also her own way of preserving and promoting their own language as a teacher.

Armand Jake Dayoha, also a fellow from the University of the Philippines in Cebu said that in his 2nd time to join this kind of workshop, the first one in Cebu and the second is the Lamiraw workshop, he was amazed of how Samar and Leyte writers give importance to the words used in writing.

He said that the writing community is visionary , where writers write for a certain goal.

Rhodora Bande, a fellow from San Roque, N Samar and a professor from the Visayas State University said that she learned much in the translation process and that the workshop helped her write better and become a better teacher.

Lynn Jairus Montilla from ABE Tacloban said that she was so surprised that she was chosen as one of the fellows because most of them are teachers while she is still a student. Montilla said that it was a very humbling experience and was thankful that her manuscript was read by his fellow writers and was critiqued by brilliant panelists.

Lucien Letaba, a waray song composer and a panelist said that Lamiraw is a good avenue for writers to present their works for criticisms, analysis and improvement in their craft.

Letaba stressed that the Waray is a gold mine of words to tell various stories. He added that it is

also a learning experience for both writers and panelists because writers learn to improve their works while the panelists get more ideas from the writers as they critique new materials.

This annual event is made possible through the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) through Mr. Ike Macasa, member of the National Committee on Communication. Macasa said that NCCA is one of the major sponsors of Lamiraw creative workshop.

Lamiraw is a multilingual literary writing workshop run by Katig Writers Network Inc. which is routed every year among state universities in Samar and Leyte. It fosters revival of local languages and inter-regional writers, targeting cooperation and meaningful exchanges with Katig Writers Network Inc. and the NCCA. It is an avenue for both seasoned and young writers who would like to hone their craft in poetry, fiction, essay writing and drama. (nbq/PIA 8-Samar with Pamela Carcellar)

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

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Ms. Fayette C. Riñen OIC - Regional Director, PIA 7

Editorial Consultants Atty. Ma. Janet C. Mesa, Ph. D. Regional Director, PIA6

Ms. Alicia E. Nicart Regional Director, PIA8

Managing Editor Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. Contributors All PIA Information Officers of Regions 6, 7 & 8 Production and Layout Edson J. Bañares Lynnor C. Regalado Regional Offices: PIA 6, 2/F RC Building, Rizal St., Iloilo City, Iloilo 5000, Tel. Nos. (033) 337-8719/3377301/509-0993, Fax No. (033) 337-8719/509-0993, e-mail: r6_pia@yahoo.com/ piaamo6@yahoo.com PIA 7, Room 304, 3/F Machay Bldg., Garardo Avenue, Cebu City, Cebu 6000, Telefax No. (032) 232-4062/232-4126, e-mail: pia7_cebu@yahoo.com.ph/r7_pia@yahoo.com PIA 8, Children‟s Park Compound, Sen. Enage St., Tacloban City, Leyte 6500, Tel. No. (053) 325-5124, Telefax No. (053) 321-2029, e-mail: pia_ev@yahoo.com/r8_pia@yahoo.com