One visayas enewsletter vol 7 issue 24 20170616 r6

Vol 7

In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS

Understanding ASEAN: Ms. Melinda Tronson - Iran, Faculty member of the University of Antique - Sibalom appreciates the discussion on the benefits of ASEAN and the role of the youth/students as Partner for Change during the School Forum conducted at the Audio Visual Room of the university by the Philippine Information Agency. Facilitating the open forum is PIA Antique Manager Vicente Villavert and the resource speaker is Information Officer Leonard Pineda I of PIA Iloilo. (PSM/PIA6 Antique) #pia6 #PartnerForChange#ASEAN2017

June 12 - 18, 2017

Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8

Issue 24

PIA6 mounts exhibit of ASEAN traditional costumes Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, 15 June (PIA) — The Philippine Information Agency-6 launched the exhibit of costumes of the ten-member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

PIA-6 Director Atty. Janet Mesa said this is among the information and education activities, and the first event of such kind, mounted by the PIA in Western Visayas, to increase knowledge and understanding of the public of ASEAN 2017. ―Here, you will see the uniqueness of each costume of the countries in the ASEAN,‖ Mesa said during the launching program.

The exhibits will run from June 15-19, at the SM City North Wing in Mandurriao district.

The exhibits consist of ten pull-up banners showing the costumes of individual member-countries: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

The exhibits, according to Director Mesa, will add to the information and education of the public, the students particularly, who are learning history and socio-civic subjects.

Likewise, she added, the exhibits also showcase glimpses of culture and tradition of ASEAN-member countries.

Mesa, particularly thanked SM City, which has been partner in the launching of Information Kiosks featuring ASEAN materials in Negros and Iloilo provinces. (JCM/ESS/ PIA-Iloilo)

Opening of Exhibits of traditional costumes at SM City, June 15, 2017, with Civil Service Commission Regional Director Rodolfo Encajonado and PIA-6 Director Janet Mesa. #PartneringForChange#EngagingtheWorld

More on Region 6, pages 2-3.

Also CLICK Here…

CENTRAL VISAYAS

Metro Cebu Express Highway to decongest Cebu City PIA 7

Dumaguete City Health Officer Dr. Ma. Sarah Tala renewed warnings to the public to guard against dengue fever-carrying mosquitoes during an interview with the media after the Kapihan sa PIA held in Dumaguete City. (PIA7-NEGOR)

More on Region 7, pages 4-5.

CEBU CITY, May 31 (PIA) --- The Department of Public Works and Highways Region VII (DPWH-7) initiated one of their leading projects called the Cebu Circumferential Road or Metro Cebu Express Highway in line with the recently launched BuildBuildBuild (Dutertenomics).

Engr. Nonato Paylado, DPWH-7chief of Planning and Design Division said this is a big help in alleviating traffic because the transport of goods and people will now be able to avoid the very congested urban core of Cebu City.

The Metro Cebu Express Highway is a 74-kilometer road stretching from Naga to Danao that will go through the upland areas of the Cebu Province, Paylado

said.

According to the recently concluded feasibility study by the DPWH-7, the project will cost around P26 billion based on the zonal value properties alone.

Actual cost may be five times higher once the fair market value and right-of-way costs are considered, Paylado added.

The public works and highways official said that a part of the feasibility study is looking into possible source of funds.

Engr. Paylado shared that they will look into foreign assistance funding. Considering the procedures and other matters, the project will most likely start by 2022. (fcr/ jsme/PIA7-Cebu/asv)

Also CLICK Here…

EASTERN VISAYAS

SoLeyte equips for Cluster Approach system in disaster response Erna S. Gorne

MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, June 15 (PIA) – Led by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, the province of Southern Leyte is undertaking workshops for a more effective disaster response through the cluster approach system.

After organizing the provincial clustering of disaster Samar Police Provincial Intelligence Branch Chief Marty Munoz dropped by PIAs Huruhimangraw responders, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction aired Wednesdays at DYMS to assure Management Officer (PDRRMO) Danilo Atienza wants the Samarnons that the province is still peaceful and same preparations to cascade down to the Municipal orderly despite rumors that Samar (being the Disaster Risk Reduction Management Offices, as well. transit area) may experience the spill over of The Cluster Approach disaster management the Marawi problem. #Empoweringcommunities emanates from international humanitarian organizations responding to calamities and emergencies recently unlike the traditional sectoral approach when an agency seems to work alone.

More on Region 8, pages 6-7.

Participated in by different government agencies, Also CLICK Here...

MDRRMOs and private groups to include the ham radio modulators groups, who also actively volunteered their

communications equipment as the workshop had inventories of logistics and its availability in time of disaster response, it was learned.

It was further agreed that existing ham radio modulators groups like the Magma, Arcom, Karancho and Solar will work together with one frequency during disaster response management under the leadership of National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) Provincial Head Engr. Rose Seno.

Different clusters with its corresponding members were identified into groups such as food and non-food items, camp management, law and order, management of the dead and missing persons, protection, emergency telecommunications, among other clusters.

Each cluster made identified their respective needs, inventory of logistics to be able to respond to disasters effectively and efficiently, PDRRMO Atienza noted. (esg/ PIA8 SoLeyte)

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WESTERN VISAYAS

Capiz takes steps to control rabies Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, June 15 (PIA) – The Capiz provincial government is implementing measures towards rabies control.

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overnor Antonio Del Rosario, in a recent meeting, said that all the concerned local government units here from the barangays, city, municipalities and province must work together to put a stop to rabies infection due to animal bites, especially from dogs.

Del Rosario said that every LGU must do its part in this program as rabies infection results to human death, pointing out that the provincial government is committed to assist the towns and city in the rabies control program.

Per record of the Provincial Health Office as of June 9, 2017, there have been four suspected deaths due to rabies to include the case in Roxas City and in Dumarao, Maayon and Jamindan towns.

The suspected rabies death in Jamindan town, however, has an exposure history from Las Piñas, Manila, PHO Medical Specialist Dr. Evelyn Bolido said.

In 2016, a total of 10,455 animal bites most of which were dog bites were recorded in Capiz and in

the first quarter of this year, there were already more than 3,260 animal bites.

Governor Del Rosario said that anti-rabies vaccine procurement for victims of animal bites will never be an effective measure as the problem continues without addressing the root cause of rabies viral infection.

He also urged the LGUs to pass and seriously enforce its rabies control ordinances and implement their program relative to the elimination of rabies infection. (JCM/JBG/PIA6)

Justice on Wheels to serve Antique Vicente W. Villavert SAN JOSE, Antique June 15 (PIA) - - Several activities are lined up for the Enhance Justice on Wheels (EJOW) program of the Supreme Court in the province on June 16 and to be hosted by the Regional Trial Court of San Jose, Antique.

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ccording to Regional Trial Court Branch 12 Executive Judge Francisco S. Guzman, the activity will be spearheaded by Court Administrator Jose Midas P. Marquez and Deputy Court Administrator Raul Bautista Villanueva. ―The EJOW is designed to improve accessibility to justice by the poor and marginalized, to achieve speedy resolution of disputes, de-clog court dockets and decongest our jails,‖ said Judge Guzman.

Guzman said that the EJOW program has five components, and these are the following: Mobile

Court Hearings and Mobile Court-Annexed Mediation, Information Dissemination to Barangay Officials, Jail Visitation and Medical, Dental and Legal Aid, Dialogue with the Supreme court Officials, Judges and the Pillars of Justice and Team Buidling for Court Employees.

The activity will be opened with a program to be held at the Justice Calixto O. Zaldivaer Bulwagan ng Katarungan, Binirayan Hills, San Jose, Antique.

Gov. Rhodora J. Cadiao , Cong. Paolo Everardo S. Javier and San Jose Mayor Elmer C. Untaran, and

Executive Judge Francisco S. Guzman will deliver their respective welcome messages, while Vice-Executive Judge Mario J. Andres Jr. will introduce the guest speaker – Court Administrator Jose P. Midas P. Marquez of the Supreme Court.

The Jail visitation will be conducted at the BJMP in San Jose, while the Dialogue with the SC Justices and Officials by the Pillars of Justice will be conducted at the Cindy’s Event and Catering. (JCM/VWV/PIA Antique)

PHO: drug surrenderers' assessment only up to June Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, 15 June (PIA6) -- Drug surrenderers in Aklan numbering 1,800 will be assessed by their respective Municipal Health Officers (MHO) as to their level of addiction up to June of this year only.

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his is according to Dr. Cornelio Cuachon, Provincial Health Officer I of PHO-Aklan during a recent radio interview over a radio station here.

Dr. Cuachon said 50% of Aklan’s drug surrenderers had been assessed already, but the rest must be assessed by the end of this month to determine the proper treatment or services that could be provided to them.

Cuachon said the surrenderers will be assessed if they are mildly, moderately or severely affected by illegal drug use.

If a drug surrenderer has been assessed to be mildly-affected, he will be referred to the Municipal Drug Abuse Council or the Barangay Drug Abuse Council to determine the appropriate activities for him – be it livelihood or technical skills training,

healthy lifestyle practice or clean-up drive.

If he is moderately-affected, he will be on an out-patient community rehabilitation program where he will attend a two-hour session once a week, determining his reasons for using drugs, as well as the many ways as to how he could avoid drugs.

After 6 months, Cuachon said the drug surrenderer will be turned over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for ―after care‖ programs.

While on community rehabilitation, the drug surrenderer will undergo 3 random drug tests. ―This is to determine if the surrenderer is no longer using drugs because if he still does, the treatment will not be effective‖, Cuachon said.

For the severely-affected drug surrenderer, the patient will be referred for detoxification through a 7 to 10 days admission in a health facility.

Cuachon said the government is putting up 4 mega treatment centers throughout the country to take care of drug surrenderers needing rehabilitation.

Cuachon clarified to radio listeners that not all drugs are illegal – some of these are used to treat high blood pressure, coughs and colds, and many more.

He advised the public not to turn to drugs when one is having a problem, because ―illegal drugs cannot solve our problems.‖ ―When we wake up, the problems will still be there, so it is much better to face our problems‖, Cuachon said. (JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)

WESTERN VISAYAS

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June 12—Philippine Independence Day

NegOcc to send scholars to Japan yearly Carlson B. Alelis NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, June 15 (PIA6) – Negros Occidental will have senior high student-scholars in Japan yearly after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the provincial government and Miyakonojo Higashi High School.

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overnor Alfredo G. Marañon, Jr. signed the MOU with Yutaka Shimizu, chairman of the said school, to grant scholarships to 10 Negrense Senior High School students at Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan.

Marañon said that this marks the first time that the province will be sending senior high students to study in Japan, staring next

year.

He is thankful for the opportunity to provide scholarships that will change the lives of so many students in the near future, a release from the Provincial Information Office said.

For his part, Yutaka Shimizu said providing scholarships to Negrense students is his special way of giving back to the community

especially to the Filipino people because it has been his dream to help students avail of Japanese education.

Marañon has also invited the chairman, along with his family, to the province to look for more areas of cooperation as well as to experience Negrense hospitality and warmth. (JCM/CBA/ PIA6-Negros Occidental)

CSC intensifies info campaign on ASEAN Lilibeth A. French ILOILO CITY, June 16 (PIA6) - - The Civil Service Commission has intensified its information campaign aimed at raising the awareness of government officials and employees and their stakeholders on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

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irector Rodolfo Encajonado of the Civil Service Commission 6 said the agency has already issued two directives on the country’s hosting of ASEAN in his message during the opening of the Philippine Information Agency 6 Photo Exhibit on ASEAN member states traditional costumes on Thursday, June 15, at SM City Iloilo.

He said Memorandum Circular No. 6 was issued in 2016 enjoining heads of agencies to participate in the information campaign which among the identified activities are the inclusion of the singing of the ASEAN Anthem in the first flag ceremony of the month and the sharing of information on ASEAN during such flag ceremony and other employee fora.

Recently, this year, Encajonado said the Commission has taken further the information campaign to heighten awareness not only of civil servants but also of the general public through MC No. 7 that include additional measures such as posting of all or any ASEAN 2017 streamers/banners in conspicuous places within the agency premises;

playing the theme song, ―ASEAN Spirit‖ during agency events and activities; wearing of the national attire of any ASEAN Member State during flag raising ceremony and in activities of the agency requiring formal attire; and conduct of appropriate activities to commemorate the 50th Founding anniversary of ASEAN in August 2017.

Likewise, government officials and employees are encouraged to ―like‖ the official ASEAN 2017 Facebook page and follow the Instagram/Twitter account #ASEAN 2017 for the latest updates on ASEAN 2017.

The banner designs and recording of "ASEAN Spirit‖ can be downloaded from the CSC and ASEAN websites.

Encajonado said the CSC field personnel in the provinces were tasked to monitor and report to them the agency’s compliance in the posting of banners.

He lauded the PIA for mounting the exhibit which was doing beyond required of them but through the activity they can help further spread

awareness on ASEAN not only in the province of Iloilo but also in the region as mall goers come from different places including the Negros Island Region.

Considering that the Philippines is part of the ASEAN community together with the other nine member states, Encajonado said that ―it is high time that we also learn more about our fellow member states, understand the purpose of ASEAN and its pillars which are the ASEAN political security community, ASEAN economic community and ASEAN socio-cultural community‖.

He also called on the public to help the government, particularly PIA and CSC, promote ASEAN starting with their family, friends, communities and in their workplace. ―Your help in the dissemination of information will surely contribute in our quest to increase awareness on ASEAN,‖ said Encajonado as he stressed the benefits and opportunities of ASEAN to Filipinos citing easy travels to all ten ASEAN countries as these are visa-free countries for Filipinos. (JCM/laf/PIA6-Iloilo)

WV crime volume dips in first five months Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, 15 June (PIA) — Data on the overall index crime rate in Western Visayas has decreased to 3,727 for the period January to May this year.

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his is according to the comparative data of injury cases among the index crime the Police Regional Office showing 4,019 soared, with Aklan having the highest at 5.04 and for the same period last year, or a drop of Iloilo at 368.

7.27.

Gorero said the increase in physical injury is A police media release said that index crimes attributed to drunkenness particularly in the are those against persons such as murder, homicide, province of Aklan. physical injury and rape.

PRO-6 data also showed that crime This also includes crimes against against property, like theft decreased by property like robbery, theft, carnapping 27.73 percent, from 1,655 to 1,196 this year and cattle rustling.

PRO-6 P u b l i c and robbery from 381 to 248 or 34.91 percent this Information officer Supt. Gilbert Gorero, physical year.

Meanwhile, Gorero said that the Crime Solution Efficiency of Western Visayas is 58.24 percent, higher than the 46.71 percent standard required at the national level.

PRO-6 Regional Director Police Chief Supt. Cesar Hawthorne Binag said he will not consider it a fault of the unit commanders the increased crime volume but he will hold liable any commander for failing to explain why and to take measures to address it.

(JCM/ESS/ PIA-Iloilo)

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CENTRAL VISAYAS

Davide: find light in history Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III tells Cebuanos to learn lessons from history in facing current enemies of the nation.

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avide, with over 300 employees of the Cebu Provincial Capitol led the flag raising ceremony yesterday commemorating the 119th Philippine Independence, with Vice Governor Agnes Magpale and Secretary Fortunato de la Pena of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

Davide said the different enemies the country is facing are threatening to slay the dream of nationhood. ―In the gathering clouds against the darkening sky, we must find light in the history of the occasion we now celebrate,‖ Davide said.

He said the unity and peace of the Philippines had always been under threat by different

groups.

These threats come from various groups that seek to force upon the ideology of countries long subjugated by it and other threats from countrymen who wish to dismember the Republic, he said.

Davide further said there are also other enemies the country faces which include those that destroy families, environment and economic stability. ―There are forces that seek to destroy the nation; forces that seek to destroy the future of our children, the moral and spiritual foundation of the people,‖ Davide said.

He however expressed confidence the Filipino will win again in Mindanao.

―For the battle there is puny compared to the conflicts our nation has weathered. Winning is this nation’s destiny,‖ Davide said.

He said the Cebuanos on their end must remain vigilant in their own localities . ―I also urge everyone in sharing information especially on social media. Unnecessary panic would worsen the situation, ― Davide said.

Meanwhile DOST Secretary de la Pena said, the revolution fought by the heroes of the nation continues. ―But for us, no matter what we do, we can still perform our own heroic acts,‖ de la Pena said in his first visit to Cebu in his official capacity as Secretary of DOST. (fcr/fcc/PIA7-Cebu)

Steady decline in Bohol crimes reported Rey Anthony H. Chiu TAGBILARAN CITY, June 5 (PIA) -- Bohol police scored big as they continue to perform key tasks in securing Bohol against terrorists and in keeping crimes on the downward curve in the last three months.

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his is according to Bohol Provincial Investigation Detection and Management Bureau (PIDMB) in a report shared by Police Senior Inspector Vincent Paul Dumaguing.

Briefing the members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) about the recent crime situation in Bohol, Dumaguing showed that the average monthly crime rate in the last three months is proof of the decrease.

This is on top of the zero ASEAN-related crimes, the arrest of a key police official set to rescue the remnants of the terrorist groups, and the neutralization of the 12 bandits who tried to sow terror in Bohol and the Visayas.

The average monthly crime rate in March is at 49, a figure that went down to 45 in April and 38 in May. During the PPOC meeting Tuesday, PIDMB through Camp Dagohoy Spokesperson Dumaguing showed that crimes in Bohol last March reached 689, a figure that decreased in April with only 621 recorded in all blotters across the province.

Pointing to a crime variance of 68 crimes, Camp Dagohoy also said the month showed a 9.86

percent decrease from March crimes.

But that did not stop there.

Not content with the decrease in crimes and pushing for a more peaceful Bohol, Bohol police all over the province recorded a steady decline in crimes by May, historically Bohol's most crime laden fiesta month.

From the 621 crimes recorded in April, despite the incursion of some members of the armed muslim extremists Abu Sayyaf Groud (ASG), Bohol still saw only 527 crime cases.

Dumaguing said the month of May saw 94 less crimes in the already decreased crimes in April. May also saw a 15.14 percent decrease of crimes from its previous month.

With this, Bohol Provincial Police Office also charted a crime solution efficiency at 60 perecent in March, 56 percent in April, and 51 percent in May. Its crime clearance efficiency is pegged at 64 percent, 58 percent and 42 percent in the same months.

In a graphical presentation of comparative index and non-index crimes, Camp Dagohoy showed

a drop in figures for index and non-index crimes.

Bohol's index crimes in March to May is 233, 219 and 161, while its non-index crimes are 456, 402 and 366.

Topping Bohol's index crimes against persons in the past three months is physical injuries, which consistently was higher over rape, murder and homicide.

For index crimes against property, theft still leads, followed by robbery, carnapping and cattle rustling, Camp Dagohoy said.

In Bohol, traffic-related incidents top the non-index crimes, reaching 560 cases in the last three months.

Moreover, for March until May 25, Bohol police, through its Drug Enforcement Unit, helped in accounting for the P37,458,864 worth of dangerous drugs in a total of 87 operations.

That same period, Bohol police operatives were instrumental in the capture and neutralization of PSupt Maria Cristina Nobleza who was set to rescue the remaining ASG operatives, her bomb expert driver, and the 12 ASG who attempted to terrorize Bohol and the Visayas. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

DepEd, NORDAPC to hold school-based anti drug advocacy drive Leandria P. Pagunsan NEGROS ORIENTAL, June 5 (PIA) — The Department of Education-Negros Island Region (DepEd-NIR) in cooperation with the Negros Oriental Drug Abuse Prevention Council (NORDAPC) will hold school-based anti-drug abuse and prevention advocacy campaign.

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mma Mate of DepEd-NIR informed members of the NORDAPC that DepEd will prepare topics related to drug abuse and prevention for discussion during lectures and symposia.

She added that DepEd will also integrate in the curriculum the ―Barkada Kontra Droga‖ campaign for students in public schools.

Meanwhile, SPO2 Cyrus Orcullo of the Provincial Police Drug Enforcement Unit (PPDEU) reported that for the month of April 2017 PPDEU operatives confiscated a total of 89.83 grams of shabu with estimated Dangerous Drugs Board Value (DDBV) at P988,130.00.

Atty. Joanna Utzurrum of the 7th Judicial

Region Branch 30 court reported a total of 13 drug cases disposed for the month of May. Of the 13 cases, ten (10) were convicted with 5 selling and 5 in possession while one (1) was acquitted.

Two of the 13 cases were transferred to another court according to Utzurrum. (lpp/PIA-7/ Negros Oriental)

CENTRAL VISAYAS

June 12—Philippine Independence Day

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Cebu Independence Day celeb touches on heroism Ferliza Calizar-Contratista

CEBU CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- Flags in half-mast in honor of the fallen soldiers in the ongoing Marawi conflict and messages of heroism were most of the highlights in commemoration of the 119th Philippine Independence Day in Cebu yesterday.

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t least three municipalities of San Remigio, Dumanjug and Santa Fe were reported to be in half-mast to show sympathy to the government fighters who recently perished in the war in Marawi.

According to San Remigio Information Officer Nino Wilo Ybanez, Mayor Mariano Martinez said the Independence Day celebration is the most timely to mourn, be proud and celebrate the heroism of the government troops who risked their lives in Marawi City. ―Ayaw mi katingala nga nag half-mast ta (Don’t be surprise why we’re in half-mast), we are showing our respect to the soldiers in Marawi,‖ Martinez was quoted by Ybanez.

In Dumanjug town, it was a joint decision of the local government and the local police to observe the flag in half-mast.

Lolito Bontigao Jr., information officer of

Dumanjug said, within the ceremony they listened to the accounts of war veteran fellow Dumanjuganon 96-year old Anacleto ―Tetong‖ Flores.

In Naga City, Mayor Kristine Chiong urged the residents to be vigilant and be aware of what is happening in the surroundings.

She shared a social media post of a doctor in Marawi who saw the attack of the Mautes coming.

The doctor, as quoted by Mayor Chiong, was already campaigning for membership through flyers and house visits. ―But nobody including him minded or alerted the authorities.

In short, walay nagpakabana (no body cares),‖ Chiong said.

The same message was highlighted by Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III at the Cebu Provincial Capitol. ―Kita dini sa Cebu, what we can do is to remain

vigilant in our own localities --- in our own homes. At the same time, also urge everyone to be responsible in sharing information especially on social media. Any unnecessary panic would only worsen the situation,‖ Davide said.

Meanwhile in Oslob town, other than the flag raising ceremony, the municipality held a sports fest.

Roger Serna, Oslob information officer said the sport fest is held because they believe on the importance of grassroots sports development which is also a thrust of the Philippine Sports Commission.

Serna said Oslob is now training their young people on open sea swimming which is now an Olympic event.

This year's Philippine Independence Day carries the theme ―Kalayaan 2017: Samasama Nating Balikatin‖. (fcr/fcc/PIA7-Cebu)

Mobile blood donation collects over 10,000 liters Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, June 8 (PIA) – In celebration of World Blood Donor Day (WBDD), a Cebu City Hall initiative was able to gather more than 10,000 liters of blood donation.

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reggy Senados of the Cebu Public Information Office said a total of 28 donors of the 162 listed were able to donate blood in this one-day mobile blood donation with the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC).

Only one bag, equivalent to 500 milligrams of blood, was extracted from each donor.

They were given food and drinks after the extraction. ―We are aiming to do this regularly here at the Cebu City Hall,‖ Senados said.

Amor Cielo Cantillas, Blood Center Manager of PNRC Cebu Chapter, said there is a need for more blood donations due to the high demand. ―For now, there is really a high demand and our supplies are sometimes not enough, so we need to go out and ask for blood donations,‖ Cantillas said.

She said regular donating of blood not only saves lives, but also improves the health of the donor.

For males, Cantillas said, regular bloodletting makes them less likely to have a heart attack.

Blood donation can be done every three months.

Those who wants to donate can just go to their clinic at Osmena Boulevard.

WBDD is done every June 14th of the year.

According to www.health.com, four advantages of donating blood include better blood flow, getting a mini check-up, balanced iron levels and the possibility of living a longer life. (fcc/PIA7-Cebu)

DOH-7 offers free dengue vaccinations CEBU CITY, June7 (PIA) --- The Department of Health (DOH-7) will distribute free dengue vaccinations to barangay health centers in Cebu Province this month.

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his is part of the observance of the Dengue Awareness Month and the ASEAN Dengue Day on June 15, this year.

Parents are encouraged to enlist their children aged 9 to 14 years old at the barangay health centers so they can avail of the free vaccines.

The vaccines will cover the four types of dengue viruses with 65 percent effectiveness.

Three shots will be given, with each shot administered every six months.

In private institutions, each shot would cost P4,500, according to Ramos.

Despite the availability of vaccines, DOH-7 Medical Officer III Dr. Shelbay Blanco reminded the public to continue practicing the 4S program to fight

dengue. ―We still have to protect ourselves ug dili kalimtan ang preventive measures even if magbalik-balik na ang DOH in reminding the public.

We encourage everybody to be more vigilant in protecting themselves against dengue,‖ Dr. Blanco said.

He added that they expect dengue cases to rise considering the rainy season already began.

As of June 3, there are 6,034 dengue cases in Central Visayas, which is a 1.1% percent drop compared to last year’s 6,099 cases.

However, the mortality rate is higher with 62 deaths this year. There were 48 deaths in 2016.

Blanco said that that most cases leading to

death are due to complacent parents or late referral cases.

The highly urbanized and densely populated cities have the most number of cases with Cebu City having 1,049 cases and 21 deaths, followed

by Mandaue City with 479 cases and 1 death, and Lapu-lapu City with 432 cases and six deaths.

Dengue cases most commonly inflict children aged six to 10 years old.

Despite this, the vaccines are only effective for those aged nine to 45 years old, according to clinical studies.

DOH-7 Nurse III Michelle Acosta shared that free dengue test kits are also available at the barangay health centers which will help detect dengue early on. (jsme/PIA7-Cebu/asv)

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EASTERN VISAYAS

Samar PNP shows other side of public service Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, June15 (PIA) - Forces of the Samar Police Provincial Office (SPPO) prove that they are not only serving the public through assuring their security and safety but also by creating some best practices where the public can reap benefits.

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rovincial Intelligence Branch Chief Marty Munoz said that they offer other forms of services like free hair cut or "Libreng Gupit, Sagot ni Chief" which came very handy this opening of classes.

School children literally lined up for the free haircut in some municipal police offices.

Munoz also took pride about the other community outreach program called "Police

Magturutdo" a program of the Samar Police Provincial Office that educate the students to keep them away from illegal drugs and all forms of crimes in society.

Meanwhile, Munoz reported that with the enhanced double barrel implementation, illegal drug use in Samar has significantly decreased.

In addition, from March 31 to May 31 the police filed drug related cases to 20 persons within the 21-day operation.

They have also confiscated 14 grams of shabu and 3.8 grams of marijuana.

As to special laws, they have also scored against four cases for illegal gambling and that they have slapped charges against 22 illegal fishers.

Munoz said that they need the full cooperation of the public in fulfilling their duty to serve the Filipino people especially Samarnons. (ajc/ nbq/PIA 8-with Pam Carcellar)

SPPO says Samar remains peaceful, police Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Jun 15 (PIA) - The Samar Police Provincial Office (SPPO) assured the public that the province is peaceful and orderly and in a very manageable situation despite the fear that there might be a spill-over of the terrorist attacks in Marawi.

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olice Provincial Intelligence Branch (PPIB) Chief Marty Munoz said that the police force of the province is working 24/7 to maintain the peace and order situation of Samar.

He also recognized the cooperation of the residents of the province who gives them tips on unusual visitors.

Munoz added that the police continuously

monitor some Muslim individuals and families who have evacuated from Marawi to Calbayog City, Samar because of some information that members of some terrorist groups will spread over to Samar due to the declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao.

He clarified though that some Muslim brothers who sought refuge with their relatives in Barangay Payahan, are legitimate Muslims who need

help.

As to police efforts to maintain peace and order, Munoz said they have standby checkpoints in different ports and terminals all throughout Samar Area to secure the safety of the public.

The police officer once more appealed to the public to be vigilant and alert and seek their help if they sense unusual activities in their area. (ajc/nbq/ PIA8-Samar with reports from Pam Carcellar)

PNP: No drug use for two years will be delisted Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, June 14 (PIA) - Names of drug dependents who really made good on their vow to stay away from prohibited drugs in a period of two years straight and beyond will be taken off the watch list.

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olice Supt. Carlito Gallardo, deputy provincial director for administration, confirmed this during the monthly press conference at the Southern Leyte Police Provincial Office (SLPPO) – Camp Alfredo Bantug Friday.

Gallardo said this was the ultimate objective for those who are hooked into drugs, that they be free from this vice and eventually be taken off the list maintained by law enforcers, and so go back to the mainstream of society as productive citizens.

It was Dr. Jerome Paler, GK provincial head and prime mover of a community-based rehabilitation program called Project Renewal and Recovery from Drugs (PRRD), who disclosed during a live dydm kapihan program that drug users undergoing rehab who maintained being sober for two years would be crashed out in the police’s list.

Up for this challenge are the 72 drug surrenderers in this city who steadfastly attended the six-month PRRD sessions and were given certificates for having thus finished last

month, out of 150 who had enrolled last November, 2016.

Throughout the weekend sessions they were called aspirants but later called ―allegiance‖ after completion, yet they are still subject to close monitoring by police and the civilian caretakers teams.

There were more than a thousand drug surrenderers in this city alone when Oplan Tokhang and Double Barrel operations, last year up to the present, were carried out. (ajc/mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)

EASTERN VISAYAS

June 12—Philippine Independence Day

7

Dengue cases in EVisayas reduce by 15% Consuelo B. Alarcon

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 9 (PIA) - Dengue cases in Eastern Visayas reduced by 15% this year as compared to the same period last year.

D

uring the DOH PIA ON AIR radio program aired over DYVL Aksyon Radyo on Thursday, Leonido Olbina, Dengue Control Program Manager of the Department of Health in the region announced that the latest records showed that 1, 418 dengue cases were reported in the region with 5 deaths and this is 15% lower compared to the same period last year.

The province of Leyte has the most number of cases with 1,017 recorded cases, 304 from Tacloban

and 145 from the city of Ormoc.

Samar has 136 cases followed by 123 in Southern Leyte; 97 in Biliran; 77 in Eastern Samar and 51 in Northern Samar.

Two died from Tacloban, one from Ormoc, one from Hilongos and one from Dagami, Leyte. The ages of those who died range from one year old to 16 years old.

Despite the reduction of cases, DOH-8 warned of possible increase in the coming months due to the onset of the rainy season.

Hence, the public is advised to religiously follow the four S which is search and destroy the breeding sites; self-protection measures by wearing long pants and long sleeved shirt; seek early consultation by consulting physicians immediately if fever persists after two days and rashes appear and lastly, say yes to fogging when there is an impending outbreak or a hotspot.

Dengue fever and dengue hemorrhagic fever are acute viral infections that affect infants, young children and adults. (DOH8PIA-8/ajc/cba)

Leyte joins in the 119th Philippine Independence day celebration Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 12 (PIA) – The provincial government of Leyte joined the nation in the celebration of the 119th Philippine Independence Day, June 12, 2017 in simple rites at the Leyte provincial capitol grounds.

L

eyte governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla led the ceremonies where hundreds of capitol employees attended the mass followed by the hoisting of the Philippine national flag and the wreath laying ceremony at Plaza Libertad as a salute of all the heroes who have died that paved the way for our independence from the bondage of the Spanish colonizers many decades ago.

In his speech, the governor emphasized the

significant role of government employees in helping the country promote the true freedom as freedom comes with responsibility. ―As workers in the government do your best, set aside personal interests and think more of others as a way to show love for our country,‖ the governor said.

The governor believe that efforts are worthless as long as many people are suffering from poverty for there can never be freedom if poverty

persists.

Despite the reported reduction of poverty in Eastern Visayas recently, Petilla reminded workers to continuously work to succeed in all endeavours and help the country promote freedom. ―If soldiers in Mindanao are offering their lives to fight for freedom in Marawi, government employees to some extent should likewise sacrifice for the sake of the province and the country as well,‖ Petilla concluded.(ajc/cba/PIA-8)

Leyte police still in full alert status Consuelo B. Alarcon TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 13(PIA) – Police authorities in the Province of Leyte are still in full alert status, as disclosed by Leyte PNP Provincial Director Police Sr. Supt. Norberto D. Tuazon in an interview.

T

his means that 100 percent of the PNP personnel are on standby status and are ready to be deployed anytime to quell any threat to security.

The continued full alert status of the PNP was made following the declaration of martial law in Mindanao due to the crisis in Marawi.

Despite the normal peace and order situation of the province, security measures are implemented in many vital installations, port areas, terminals, malls,

churches and other prone areas to prevent a possible spillover of the terror acts in Marawi city. ―This would involve the conduct of checkpoints and patrolling in areas where people gathered and are used as entry and exit points,‖ Tuazon said.

To date, no evacuees from Mindanao particularly from Marawi city have been reported except for seven children, four adults and a woman, all coming from Iligan city who visited a relative in Abuyog Leyte.

However, the visitors did not stay for long as they just passed by in said town and later moved to Metro Manila. ―Although there are no specific threats to the province security forces are in place,‖ Tuazon further said.

The PNP official likewise urged Leytenos and other residents in the city to be vigilant in their respective places and report to police immediately any suspicious looking personalities.(ajc/cba/PIA8)

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