Vol 6
In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS
PIA-6 Regional Director Atty. Ma. Janet Mesa explains to the student writers, faculty, and staff of Barroc National High School in Tigbauan, Iloilo the communication messages under the Duterte administration during a briefing held in the school, September 29, 2016.
More on Region 6, pages 2-3. Also CLICK Here…
CENTRAL VISAYAS
A 3rd Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill was held September 28 at Lahug Elementary School, Gorordo Avenue, Cebu City with Office of Civil Defense (OCD) -7 supervising the drill. Teachers and students did the “Duck, Cover and Hold”. #Pagyanig #PartnerForChange (Photos courtesy of Ryan Alfaras) (vvv/PIA Cebu)
More on Region 7, pages 4-5. Also CLICK Here…
EASTERN VISAYAS
Dr. Sonny Domingo, senior research fellow of the Phil. Institute for Dev't Studies giving his talk on development policy research before the local media and government information officers in a forum at Hotel Lorenza, Tacloban City. Dr. Domingo is joined by panelists from #DOST, #PAGASA, #PHIVOLCS, #NEDA and #DILG. September is #Development#Policy #Research Month with this year's theme, "Angkop na Kahandaan: Matatag na Ekonomiya at Lipunan." (ldl/ rst) #PartnerForChange
More on Region 8, pages 6-7. Also CLICK Here...
Sept. 26 - Oct. 2, 2016
Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8
Issue 39
PCO, PIA officials join Cebu Press Freedom month Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) – Top government communications officials joined the Cebu Press Freedom month activities. Officials of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) were in Cebu recently to join the media of Cebu in celebrating the 22nd Press Freedom month. Presidential Communications Office Secretary Martin Andanar was guest in the Conversation on the Freedom of Information (FOI) “FOI and Media” at the Marcelo Fernan Press Center. He said the celebration of Press Freedom is also a reaffirmation of media responsibility. Andanar said the role of media in monitoring the conduct of government officials is vital to democracy. “I call on media also to be a catalyst for social change,” Andanar said. Andanar in the said forum updated the participants on the implementation of the FOI among executive offices. He said this also includes the updating of all online portals among national government agencies. "A genuine FOI is a necessary tool in the fight against graft and corruption and other forms of abuse and excess in the government. This would promote transparency and strengthen public participation in governance," Andanar said. Earlier, PIA Director General Harold Clavite with Deputy Director General Angelo Villar attended the quarterly meeting of the Cebu Citizens Press Council (CCPC). Clavite assured they want good relations between government and media. He lauded Cebu media for celebrating press freedom for 22 years, calling it a gift to the nation. “But at the same time, this gift is also a responsibility and a challenge to the members of the press,” Clavite said. He complimented the good relationship between PIA and Cebu media and further assured that he will listen and sit down
should there still be any gaps to be filled. Clavite urged Cebu media to help the government in disseminating government programs down to the grassroots level. He said PIA is not doing political communications. “The challenge is that we will make use of this freedom to inform, to inspire, to move people to do what is right, and more so what is most humane,” Clavite said. Villar also attended two forums initiated by the Department of Energy (DOE) for energy efficiency and conservation campaign. Villar said PIA will always be a partner in communicating the programs of government agencies to the public. The three officials attended the candle-lighting ceremony calling to end impunity among media at the Cebu Provincial Capitol. They also attended a breakfast meeting with Cebu media pillars including editors of the three major papers and tabloids, radio, and station heads. Cebu media has long been celebrating press freedom, the first and only to have such celebration until recently when other provinces joined in. September is also Kapisanan ng mga Broadcasters Month. (rmn/fcc/PIA7-Cebu)
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar with PIA-7 Regional Director Minerva BC Newman during his sojourn in Cebu for various official engagements including visits to government communications offices. (PIA-7)
Sec-Gen asks LGUs to allocate funds for Red Cross Marcelo M. Pedalino MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 24 (PIA) -- The Secretary-General of the Philippine Red Cross has called upon chief executives of the 18 towns and one city of this province to extend support to the local Red Cross chapter by setting aside a budget for this purpose. “Allocate part of your budget for the Red Cross,” Atty. Oscar Palabyab, Secretary General of the global humanitarian organization, reached out to Mayors attending the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing rites at the city gym Friday last week. The Mayors themselves were among the signatories in one out of three MOAs, in their case lending support to the continuous blood donation program of the provincial Red Cross; another was with DepEd City and Southern Leyte divisions for youth volunteers; and another with the provincial hospital for medical health care assistance program. In his short speech, Palabyab, also a former Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT), cited the government support in other countries extended to the Red Cross or the Red Crescent, in countries like Afghanistan, Mongolia, Vietnam, and Japan. The main highlight of the event was the turnover of P 2 Million cash assistance from the provincial government headed by
then Governor now Congressman Roger Mercado to the local Red Cross, the fund intended to answer for blood processing fee for indigent patients needing blood. Jonas Maco, Red Cross provincial administrator, received the check replica from Cong. Mercado along with other provincial officials, and the Red Cross family, including Dr. Christe Monina Nalupta, Director of the PRC National Blood Service program, witnessing the turn-over. In a huddle with local media after the ceremonies, Palabyab described the provincial initiative as “isolated”, with no mention of other LGUs doing the same, adding that at the national headquarters they got P 10 Million from PCSO for a similar purpose on blood processing fee, implying they got no assistance from LGUs. Asked to elaborate his appeal to Mayors to share a budget for the PRC, given that Red Cross lives on donation, Palabyab said this can be done through membership, in which a person is entitled to a personal insurance in exchange of an amount he paid as Red Cross member. Earlier, City Vice-Mayor Maloney Samaco informed that barangay officials in the city were covered by insurance for being members of the Red Cross, their membership footed by the city LGU. (mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
NYC mulls creation of youth hubs Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA6) -- - The National Youth Commission (NYC) is proposing the establishment of „youth hubs‟ in the agency‟s various local offices all over the country that would deal with issues and concerns of the youth. In a press conference held recently in Iloilo City, NYC Chairperson Cariza Seguerra is eyeing all NYC local offices to have an open space where the youth could converge and be provided with services they need. “We are catering to a very specific clientele, ang kabataan. Para sa akin, how do we engage participation?,” Seguerra said. The NYC official said that the youth hubs will serve as one-stop shops where the youth can avail of services provided by various government agencies. “Gusto namin sa youth hub na yun ay nandoon na ang mga
impormasyon na kailangan nila from all agencies. Lahat naman ng mga ahensya natin ay may programang pang-kabataan,” Seguerra said. She said the youth hub will also be the gathering place for all youth organizations to have trainings and other capability-building endeavors. She is also planning to hold youth fairs that can be done in the provincial level to cater to the different interests of the youth. “Ang mga kabataan natin iba-iba ang mga activities ang gusto rin nila. At the same time, may iba rin silang interests. May mga kabataan tayo that are into farming, may mga kabataan tayo that are into arts,” she said. She added that the youth fair will also be a platform for entrepreneurial youth to showcase their products. (JCM/LTP/ PIA-Iloilo)
2
WESTERN VISAYAS
Aklan innovates, goes green Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. ILOILO CITY, Sept. 29 (PIA6) – Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI Director Rebecca M. Rascon lauded Aklan for having gone far in terms of the development and quality of their products.
“
You never stop looking for ways to make these products competitive,” Rascon told the province‟s micro, small and medium entrepreneurs at the start this week of Aklan Green Product Expo 2016 at SM City Activity Center where a wide variety of these products are on display and sale. The expo runs until Oct. 2. She cited as an example its piña fiber products which have metamorphosed from mere fabric materials into what are now fine dress products that can compete in the fashion world. Rascon went into naming some of the producers who she said never tire of thinking of the next products that would become competitive in both the local and export markets. Speaking of the products as a whole, she added that innovations have been introduced so much so that the crafts and the packaging of food products have improved a lot, they appeal
to the eyes of the buyers. She opened the exposition together with Aklan provincial administrator lawyer Selwyn Ibarreta representing Gov. Joeben Miraflores, Carlo Macahilig, Sr. of the Office of Congressman Carlito Marquez, DTI-Aklan Provincial Director Carmen Iturralde, DOST Regional Director Engr. Rowen Gelonga, Roselita Sauza of the producers‟ group Hugod, and other guests from the province and DTI. As its name says, the exposition showcases green products that suit contemporary buyers‟ preferences for items that have a positive effect on the environment or those that reduce greenhouse gases emissions. The event is anchored on the theme, “Green Fashion, Green Lifestyle, Green Business” with some 40 MSMEs offering unique and quality wearables and homestyle items, Aklan‟s popular meat and bakery products, as well as an added feature of a Nego Cart
showcasing products for hotel needs. It is an annual marketing event organized by DTI-Aklan and the Hugod Aklan Producers Association, Inc. in partnership with the provincial government. The director also announced at the event that DTI is bringing their project “Negosyo, Konsyumer ATBP” to Iloilo on Oct. 10-12 of this year to showcase the region‟s distinct products through the „Ang Panublion” fair and bring the agency‟s integrated programs and services to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The event used to be held in Metro Manila, but this time around it will be brought here and in the process attract also the buyers to come over, said Rascon. It will be done with the support of DTI‟s Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and Bureau of Domestic Trade and Promotion. (JCM/JSC/ PIA6)
Negrenses qualify for scholarships in Japan Carlson B. Alelis NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Sep. 27 (PIA6) – Four Negrenses have qualified for scholarship grants in Japan under the Shiina Company Ltd.
J
asper Junas from Bago City, Kretchen Tahum from Kabankalan City, Roan Tanguan from Talisay City and Annely Casipong from La Castellana town will spend two years in Japan as part of their scholarship grant. Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr., on Thursday, Sept. 22, signed a memorandum of
understanding (MOU) with Kenichi Shiina of the said Japanese company, a release from the provincial information office said. Under the MOA, the Negrense scholars will study Japanese Language Education for two years in Japan, as well as airfare from here to Japan. In addition, the scholars will be
recommended for further study after the completion of their two-year education and after passing the examination for specialization in a university in Japan. Also in attendance during the MOU signing were Fumio Mizuno and Shigeki Ikoshi. (JSC/CBA/PIA6 Negros Occidental)
IPs get training in abaca technology Elsa S.Subong ILOILO CITY, 29 Sept (PIA6) — The Indigenous Peoples in four barangays in Calinog, Iloilo were given training on abaca (Manila hemp) technology as an alternative technology.
T
he National Irrigation Administration -6 said the training was provided by the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), covering farm practices and development of the abaca industry. NIA said that the IPs asked for the training during the conduct of the Free and Prior Informed Consent session in connection with the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project (JRMP II). PhilFIDA Development Officer Antonio Castronuevo said that their ocular inspections of the IP barangays they discovered big potentials for abaca production.
These barangays are Supanga, Caratagan, Aglonok, Hilwan and Marandig. “In Western Visayas abaca production covers some 8,800 meters, with each meter yielding about 0.185 percent,” NIA‟s Shimci Ramos said. The PhilFIDA gave the IPs 30 abaca planting bars during the training, to be used in their initial farming activities. “Now I know that we should not cover abaca plant with dead leaves, but that the leaves should be processed first before mixing as organic fertilizer,” Jeden Lucio, 37, participant to the training, said in the local dialect.
Lucio, who comes from Bgy. Marandag added that he will share with his fellow IPs the correct process he had learned. “I am thankful to the three agencies that taught us about another form of livelihood,” Rosalinda Canja of Barangay Supanga said. Besides PhilFIDA, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said they will incorporate abaca technology in their agroforestry project in Calinog. PhilFIDA, for its part, said it will re-visit the communities to further assist the IPs in improving the abaca technology imparted to them. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)
WESTERN VISAYAS
3
Study cites mangroves as carbon sinks Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. ILOILO CITY, Sept. 28 (PIA6) – Protected mangroves in this city have demonstrated the potential to serve as carbon sinks by sequestering and storing considerable amounts of atmospheric carbon to mitigate the impacts of climate change, according to a state university study.
T
he study, “Species Diversity, Above and Below Ground Biomass, and Carbon Stock Assessments of Selected Mangrove Forests in Iloilo City, Philippines” by Dr. Resurreccion Sadaba and Allen Grace Niego of the University of the Philippines in the Visayas, was one of six researches presented at the Regional Research Utilization Forum held today at the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region VI here. The study, which was presented by Dr. Sadaba at the forum, has also shown that it is possible to build low emission alternatives to
develop economic resilience and sustainability projects at a minimal cost. It determined the diversity of mangroves and quantified the amount of above and below ground biomass and carbon stored among the selected sites of mangrove forest, which included 8 sites in four barangays of this city. The rapid economic development being undergone by the city was acknowledged by the study. Despite the economic stride, however, the study pointed out that the local government has long recognized the value of conserving and protecting its environment, including in particular its remaining mangroves
that provide ecosystem services, biodiversity, and livelihood opportunities. While a number of studies have been done to assess the carbon stock of mangroves in the country, the UPV study said none has been done in a highly urbanized setting. The forum was organized by NEDA-6 in celebration of the Development Policy Research Month (DPRM) this September. The researches presented pertained to disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation in keeping with the 2016 DPRM theme of “Investing in Risk Reduction for a Resilient Philippines”. (JSC/PIA6)
Corporate farm program to improve farmers output Vicente W. Villavert SAN JOSE, Antique, Sept. 28 (PIA6) - - The country’s rice production output will be improved with the introduction of the program called corporate farming system, according to a Department of Agriculture official.
“
This scheme will involve the local government units in rice production by having a contract farming agreement with farmers,” said Department of Agriculture Assistant Secretary for the Visayas Hansel O. Didulo during his courtesy call with Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao. Didulo said that the LGUs will finance through Land Bank, then after the cropping season the LGU will buy the farmers produce. This type of farming scheme will be
started next cropping season in Quezon City where it will serve as a model representing the urban area with no agricultural areas/rice fields; Kidapawan City representing LGU with rice fields; and Quirino Province representing the province with rice fields. The LGU corporate farm program is aimed to enhance rice sufficiency and eliminate the country‟s dependence on imported rice. “If successfully implemented, the project will generate at least P50 million in a
5,000 hectares of farm land per cropping season,” Didulo said as he pointed out that the farmers will be benefiting with the program with increased productivity, and the 4 Ps beneficiaries for their 20 kilos rice supply. The DA Assistant Secretary for the Visayas said that the government is also eyeing full implementation of the farm mechanization program in order to make our farmers globally competitive. (JCM/VWV/PIA Antique)
Media, PIA attend US Embassy seminar Jemin B. Guillermo ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Sept. 27 (PIA6) – Selected private media practitioners and information officers from the Philippine Information Agency underwent a two-day seminar on disaster preparedness, courtesy of the United States Embassy.
T
he 7th US Embassy Seminar for Regional Media focused on the role of media in disaster preparedness and emergency management. Included in the discussions during the seminar were humanitarian assistance p r ot o c o l s a n d p a r t n e r s h i p s w i t h non-government organizations and local governments, information to mitigate disasters, particularly Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) of the Department of Science and Technology, and Communicating programs and initiatives in disaster preparedness and emergency management. The initiatives of the Philippine Information Agency in responding to citizens‟ communication needs in times of disasters and
emergency, use of web and mobile technology during disasters, disaster reporting for television, and mobilizing the community press in times of disasters were likewise given emphasis. External Affairs Director Oscar Victor Lizardo of the DOST‟s Project NOAH stressed that there is a need for media to effectively communicate the risks through disaster awareness programs, visual information and bridging the gap between the media and science for the general public. He also said that localizing the information and the importance of local leaders, communicating the disasters that did not happen, and use of ambassadors to get the message across are important in
communicating the risks. Science and Technology Institute Deputy Director Alan Taule pointed out to mediamen the six focal points to be considered in covering disaster events such as the danger and killer factors, location of the communities at risk, scale and magnitude to determine the needed level of response and coordination, timing and duration of disaster event, impact or hazard‟s effects on the community, and response. For her part, Molly Koscina US Embassy incoming Information Officer in Public Affairs thanked the participants of the training and expects that whatever they learned will be applied for the betterment of their respective communities. (JCM/JBG/ PIA6-Capiz)
4
CENTRAL VISAYAS
Gov't communications offices in CV to be improved - Sec. Andanar Ferliza Calizar-Contratista CEBU CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) – Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Martin Andanar assured the improvement of regional offices under the PCO.
I
n his first visit to the three offices under PCO here, Andanar said there will be improvements to be done in the agencies that are at the forefront of government communications. Andanar first visited the Philippine Information Agency 7 (PIA) in Gorordo Avenue and then made a tour of the DYMR Radyo ng Bayan station at MJ Cuenco Avenue, and finally at the office of the Philippines News Agency (PNA). With PIA, Andanar said the agency has the most number in terms of presence among the provinces nationwide. “The role of PIA is to bridge the communication gap between government and people. You are in the provinces. There is a need to expand network down to the purok level for every Juana, Maria and Pedro to know that we are
there,” Andanar said. He said PIA should complement the broadcast operations of PTV and Philippine Broadcasting Corporation (PBC). “I assure you that in my leadership you have my support. We will make any available funds that we have, we have billions of pesos for communication,” Andanar said. Initially, under the proposed budget of the agency, there is P3 million for every region allocation which may increase to P5 million. “The offices will be retooled and we will have to give our best foot forward. Bigyan naman natin ng dangal,” Andanar said. Andanar is confident PIA is in good hands with the new and dynamic leadership under Director General Harold Clavite and Deputy Director General Angelo Villar who were also present during
the short meeting. For the broadcast, Andanar in earlier reports already announced the merging of PTV and PBC. “For Radyo ng Bayan there is an allocation of P80 million, with 57 AM stations all over the country,” Andanar said. He assured the workers of Radyo ng Bayan and PTV that there is no fear of job displacement. In fact, with the plans of leveling up underway, he said there is a bigger possibility of increasing manpower. For PNA here, Andanar also gave the same assurance to its lone staff Atty. Eddie Barrita for office and equipment upgrade. PCO submitted a P1.4 billion budget plan for 2017 which was approved during the September 19 Senate budget hearing. (rmn/fcc/PIA-Cebu)
MARINA-7 conducts random inspection of old ships Fayette C. Riñen CEBU, Sept. 28 (PIA) – In order to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent sea accidents, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA-7) is conducting random inspection of sea vessels 35 years old and up for their seaworthiness.
M
ARINA-7 Regional Director Nannette Dinopol said checking the seaworthiness especially of old vessels is critical to guarantee the lives of passengers at sea. “We are currently doing a profiling of ships‟ safety nationwide,” said Dinopol during a recent press conference that marked the celebration of National Maritime Week September 25 to 30 which carries the theme “Shipping Indispensable to the World”. Dinopol said there is a process of crafting a policy to phase out ships that are 35 years old and above, although this would be a slow and tedious process considering that quite a significant number
would be affected. In Central Visayas alone, “there are 138 roll-on -roll-off passenger ships and 365 ships of all types that are aged 35 years old and above,” said Dinopol. The MARINA-7 director said talks have started with financial institutions to give package to ship owners that might be hit by such policy in case it is approved. “But as of now, there is no policy yet,” stressed Dinopol on the move to phase out old ships, although she added that ship owners who want to continue operations could utilize local shipbuilders to reduce capital costs.
However, the Visayan Association of Ferryboat Services and Coastwise Operators (VAFSCO) opposed the move to phase out old ships because quite a number of ship operators would be affected. Alexander Cohon, president of VAFSCO, said ships safety is not based on age but rather on regular maintenance and competence of people manning the ship. “One can have a brand new ship but the crew manning it is not well-equipped,” said Cohon. Cohon said every dry dock maintenance is done and parts are replaced when necessary which makes the ships safe to travel. (rmn/fcr/PIA7)
School paper advisers attend campus journ, disaster preparedness training Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR, Sept. 29 (PIA) -- Some 80 school paper advisers from the Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Siquijor attended the training workshop on Maximizing Campus Journalism and Social Media in Disaster Communication at the Helen Planning Center, Larena, Siquijor.
T
he training is spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd), in cooperation with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) – Siquijor and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC). It aims to capacitate school paper advisers and students with techniques and strategies in the effective use of campus journalism and social media and electronic news for development communication and disaster preparedness. It also hopes to enhance disaster information, education and communication activities in the province through the use of campus journalism, Information Communication Technology (ICT) and social media. Campus journalism and social networking play a big role in disaster preparedness.
Campus journalists can be the most effective group the province can tap in all its disaster risk reduction and management programs given their capacity to write and educate not only in schools but in the communities. With social media, print and electronic news as the most heavily used means of networking and sources of information to keep abreast with the latest technology, campus journalism becomes very relevant, she added. The training-workshop is a tool for enhancing government services and schools performance in the province particularly in creating resilient communities that is capable of responding to any emergencies occurring at homes, on campus and in the province. Resource persons were PIA Regional Director Minerva Newman, Infocen Managers Rey Anthony
Chiu, Rachelle Nessia and Rizalie Calibo of Bohol, Cebu, and Siquijor respectively with three other lecturers from DepEd. Newman talked on Clear and Effective Writing and Disaster Communication while Chiu discussed Campus Journalism Operations as well as Photo Journalism with workshop. Nessia tackled News and Feature Writing and Calibo on Headline Writing and Newspaper Lay-out. Basac National High School Paper Adviser Mary Jane Larot shared about Editorial Cartooning, Dr. Angie Manginsay on Editing and Copywriting, and Jennilyn Daniel on Science and Technology. The training was supported by DepEd supervisors, training managers and consultants, Maria Enin Cuevas, Neddy Arong, Flora Gahob, Marilou Maglinao with other officers and documenter. (rmn/ rac/PIA7-Siquijor)
CENTRAL VISAYAS
5
NegOr promotes tourism destinations at Philippine Travel Mart Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Sept. 26 (PIA) – Negros Oriental showcased its tourism destinations and products during the 27th edition of the Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia in Pasay City.
S
enior Tourism Operations Officer Myla Mae Bromo-Abellana said the 27th PTM featured colorful exhibits, Sale ng Bayan Tour Packages, and cultural presentations. PTM is the biggest Travel Fair in the country. Local government units (LGUs), resorts, hotels, and dive shops are among those that participated as exhibitors. Abellana said the province‟s delegation includes from the Provincial Tourism Unit, Dumaguete City
Tourism Office, Sidlakang Negros Association of Tourism Officers (SINATO), Association of Travel and Tours in Negros (ATTIN), and the Negros Oriental Association of Tour and Travel Agencies (NOATTA). The province‟s continued presence in the annual Travel Mart has contributed to the growing increase of visitor influx in Negros Oriental, Abellana said. In its 27th year, Philippine Tour Operators
Association (Philtoa) has organized the biggest tourism and travel trade exhibition, promoting local and emerging destinations and properties, and featuring more than 5,000 products. Over 219 exhibitors joined the event and offered discounted rates in tour packages for local destinations. This is to ensure economic activities by boosting domestic tourism. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros Oriental)
Parents seeking to adopt urged to attend seminar Juju M. Empuerto CEBU CITY, Sept. 29 (PIA) --- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) is encouraging prospective adoptive parents to attend the pre-adoption counseling seminar to better understand the steps in legal adoption.
“
We have a monthly pre-adoption seminar and this serves as a venue in clarifying misconceptions against adopting children," said DSWD-7 Regional Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre. Macapobre said that interested couples should go through the legal process to ensure the children‟s welfare and not through simulation of birth because it is a crime, “The legal adoption process will give both the adoptive parents and the adoptee equal rights and obligations similar to those enjoyed by biological parents and their children,” she added. The DSWD official stressed that children are born from the heart and not only from the womb. The pre-adoption counseling seminar is held every last Thursday of every month at the SWAD-Cebu located at MJ Cuenco Avenue corner Gen. Maxilom Avenue, Brgy. Carreta, Cebu City. DSWD-7 Listahanan Information
Officer Kerwin Macopia said that aside from attending the pre-adoption seminar, other steps in domestic adoption include filing of application for adoption, preparation of home study report of the prospective adoptive parents, approval of home study report, issuance of certification that the child is available for adoption and regional matching. Matching refers to the judicious pairing of a child with the prospective adoptive parents and family members based on the capacity and commitment of such adoptive parent to meet the individual needs of a particular child and the capacity of such child to benefit from the placement, said the social welfare and development officer. In a regional matching, the Child Welfare Specialist Group composed of lawyer, pediatrician, psychologist, registered social worker and NGO representative will be tasked to deliberate the matching of children legally available for adoption, added Macopia.
After the matching, the pre-placement of the child with the prospective adoptive parent will follow in preparation for the eventual placement. When the placement is done, the prospective adoptive parent can now file the petition for adoption in court. Once the court serves the certificate of finality or the adoption decree, the child can now have his or her amended birth certificate. The prospective adoptive parents will spend for securing the documents and requirements for adoption but the services of DSWD for adoption is free. DSWD regional office here has already matched and placed 11 children for domestic adoption and 12 for inter-country adoption from January to September 2016, said Macopia. Currently, there are 35 children issued with certification that they are legally available for adoption. (rmn/jsme/PIA7-Cebu/with DSWD7 report)
RSCWC-NIR partner agencies urged to be pro-active vs child abuse Leandria P. Pagunsan DUMAGUETE CITY, Sept. 29 (PIA) -- The Regional Sub-Committee Council for the Welfare of Children in Negros Island Region (RSCWC-NIR) is urging its partner-agencies to be pro-active in the fight against child abuse.
S
halaine Marie Lucero, chairperson of the Regional Sub-Committee Council for the Welfare of Children in Negros Island Region (RSCWC-NIR), said there is a need to strengthen ties with local officials, youth organizations, and stakeholders in solving cases of illegal drugs abuse, cyber sex and child labor in the Negros Island Region. In the council‟s third quarter meeting held in Dumaguete City, member-agencies and non-government organizations (NGOs) presented their advocacy programs and services to protect children from human trafficking, child labor, illegal drugs activities, and cyber pornography. Romualdo Señeris, regional coordinator of Visayan Forum, disclosed that based on 2011 data from National Statistics Office (NSO), Central Visayas has the 5th highest incidence of hazardous child labor with 219,000 children, aged 5 to 17 years
old working in farms, sugarcane and coconut plantations, and rice fields. Department of Education (DepEd) through Emma Mate reported their feeding program in partnership with local alliance for nutrition, gulayan sa paaralan and seed bank, nutrition education and food safety, health facilities for hand washing, dental, safe drinking water and toilets are strictly implemented in all public schools. Evita Mae Villagonzalo of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said they are working closely with partner agencies Philippine National Police (PNP), Visayan Forum, Department of Justice (DOJ) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD0 in implementing and monitoring the Sagip Batang Manggagawa, Child Labor-Free establishments and Child Labor-Free Barangays (CLFB). The Department of Agriculture‟s advocacy on anti-rabies campaign, distribution of
seedlings for backyard gardening, and scholarship grants to children of farmers who are interested in Agriculture as announced by Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol during his visit in Dumaguete in August are among the programs that will benefit children. With the provincial government's proposed 2017 budget of P2,000,000 for Child Welfare and Development Program, Lucero suggested to include in the RSCWC the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) member who chairs the committee on children and women for a stronger collaboration in implementing advocacy programs. Citing also the importance of children‟s representation in the council, Lucero suggested, and agreed upon by partner- agencies, to invite presidents of Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) and the Department of Education‟s “You Only Live Once” (YOLO) youth formation group to be invited as members of the council. (rmn/lpp/PIA-7/Negros Oriental)
6
EASTERN VISAYAS
Naval town marks 156th pueblo day Flordelis E. Jackson NAVAL, Biliran, Sept. 26 (PIA) – It’s a grand celebration as the town of Naval in Biliran province marked its 156th Pueblo Day, September 26, 2016.
T
he celebration was started with a holy mass at the Naval Cathedral at 6:00 o‟clock in the morning with Bishop Filomeno Bactol of the Diocese of Naval as the main celebrant. The mass was immediately followed by a grand parade around the main thoroughfares of the town. The parade participants included officials and employees of the national government agencies (NGAs), Naval State University (NSU), non-government organizations (NGOs), local government unit (LGU) of Naval, provincial government of Biliran, barangay officials and identified participants from the 26 barangays of Naval, private organizations, cooperatives, women‟s organizations and other groups. A commemorative program was held at the municipal grounds after the parade. In his message, Mayor Gerard Roger M. Espina thanked everyone for their involvement and participation in the day-long celebration
which was also the kick-off of the weeklong activities in connection with the celebration of the 2016 Naval Fiesta in October 1. He emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation saying these are factors that contribute to the progress and development of Naval and its people. “Let‟s set aside differences for the town‟s progress. What is important to me is, we should be united and let‟s help one another for the development of our town,” said the 32-year old mayor. The eight candidates to the search for Miss Naval 2016 were also presented to the public during the program. The cosplay contest was an added attraction where students from the Naval State University were the contestants. The People‟s Day activities highlighted the day-long celebration which include the opening of the Tabo sa Munisipyo at the municipal grounds where fresh fruits, vegetables and other agricultural produce of the Naval farmers were sold at low prices; Free Legal
Assistance; Trabaho sa Munisipyo (Job Fair) and Mass Wedding dubbed as “Pakasal sa Munisipyo” with Mayor Espina as the solemnizing officer. The celebration was capped with a Pueblo Night, a cultural presentation of the employees from the NGAs, LGU of Naval, schools and other groups featuring popular folkdances, songs, violin ensemble and other entertaining numbers held at the Naval gymnasium at 6:00 o‟clock in the evening. The opening salvo of the Pasundayag Night 2016 was held at the municipal grounds also on September 26. The nightly presentations will run until September 30 every 6:00 o‟clock in the evening featuring local singers and bands to provide entertainment to Navalenos who want to relax and enjoy family bonding with their children, relatives and friends. The celebration of Naval is anchored on the theme “Lingi sa Kagahapon, Asenso sa Kaugmaon." (flor jackson)
SWM board to convene in Maasin City Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 28 (PIA) -- The Office of the City General Services in Maasin City is set to convene the 1st Solid Waste Management Board meeting on October 3, 2016.
G
eneral Services Officer Benjase Lumen informed that the activity will highlight the field visit to the Bio-waste processing (composting) facility at the City‟s Agri-Nursery compound in Barangay Rizal and a visit to the sanitary landfill in Barangay Bactul I, all in Maasin City. The day activity to be held at the mayor‟s
conference room will also discuss the formal re-constitution of the board per Local Government Unit Executive Order No 019; a draft work plan for the updating of the 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan; and will tackle issues on the Sanitary Landfill survey error/ boundary and agrarian issues or the relocation of different settlers. A briefing of the ESWM
Institutional mechanism and the role of the SWM Board will also be presented. The above different topics will be discussed by Community Environment and Natural Resources Office personnel Engr. Jess Abar and Department of Agrarian Reform staff Mr. Barientos. Facilitators of the activity are CGSO staff and personnel. (rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)
Maasin City deworms, vaccinates dogs on World Rabies Day Erna Sy Gorne MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte Sept. 26 (PIA) - The City Veterinary Services Office undertook activities to mark the World Rabies Day observation on September 28.
M
aasin City Veterinarian Dr. Rey Alinsub disclosed during the DyDM Kapihan sa PIA radio program that rabies as a disease is a worldwide concern since it is fatal. That there are about 300- 400 Filipinos who die of rabies infection every year, according to research studies, he said. Alinsub reported that since he assumed office last year, there was no case of death due to rabies infection in the city, so far.
There is an estimated presence of 6,000 dogs in the city, as of this writing, he surmised. The Office of the City Veterinary Sevices (OCVS) has already vaccinated more than 70% of the total population of dogs and still counting. There are still pet owners who voluntarily submit their dogs to their office for anti-rabies vaccination from time to time, he said. They have lined up activities to drumbeat
the event to include free rabies vaccination, free dog dewormer, distribution of rabies leaflets and film showing of rabies documentaries at the Anatalio Gaviola Plaza, Maasin City on September 28, 2016 from 9:00am – 3:00 pm, he added. Their office also have an annual schedule of dog vaccination down to the 70 barangays held from January until March every year, he added. (esg/PIA8 SoLeyte)
EASTERN VISAYAS
7
6 new classrooms up for Oquendo students Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Sept. 29 (PIA) -- The DPWH Samar first engineering district inaugurated on Monday, a threestorey-six classroom school building at Oquendo National High School (ONHS), Oquendo Poblacion, Calbayog City.
P
resent during the inaguaration were the various agencies involved in the implementation like the DPWH - Samar First District Engineering Office (SFDEO), DepEd, Local Government Unit, ONHS faculty, and the senior high school students - beneficiaries of the project. Construction of the project kicked-off in October 21, 2015. It is under contract with B. Vicencio Construction in the amount of Php 9, 830, 814.95. “I challenge the ONHS faculty and
students to take good care of the building; to maintain and improve the structure,” said Dr. Raul D. Agban, Officer-in-Charge, Schools Division Superintendent, DepEd. “This building is for us, for the use of our senior high school students for a better learning. Let us maintain its beauty,” Agban added. Milaner R. Oyo-a, Principal I, ONHS, humbly accepted Agban‟s challenge. “With the help of my teaching and non-teaching staff, I promise to deliver quality
education to our students,” he said. Engr. Carlos G. Ranola, Chief of Construction Section, DPWH SFDEO, turned-over the symbolic key. The classrooms will be used by some 166 senior high students. Prior to the completion of the project, classes were being held under the mango trees of ONHS. Former SILG and Samar representative Mel Senen Sarmiento is said to be instrumental in the classroom construction. (nbq with lgb/ dpwh)
Public urged to keep safe vs. deadly rabies virus Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Sept. 29 (PIA) — As the world marked World Rabies Day, City Veterenarian Antonio Cinco urged the public to be safe from the deadly virus.
I
n yesterday‟s Huruhimangraw ha PIA radio program, Cinco aired his concern about the deadly virus. As the vaccine is free, the vet urged pet owners to vaccinate their pets and to prevent pets from going stray as they may come in contact with rabid animals. The vet also enumerated the laws and ordinances that apply. He said that Catbalogan City enforces laws on stray animals and that residents who do not comply are penalized. “We inform the public about responsible pet ownership, that they should tie or cage their dogs, they can be led out once in a while
but they should be tied,” he insisted. Many have been issued citation tickets for violations, he added. Once they do not attend to the penalties of the citation tickets, this will be forwarded to the fiscal‟s office. “We are serious, some 18 Catbaloganons have been charged with violation,” said Cinco. As the discussion moved, the doc also said that pet owners are responsible for the medical expenses of those who might be bitten by their pets. Whether dogs or other pets have been vaccinated, once they bite a human being, he
should submit himself to the animal bite center at the provincial hospital immediately. “We should not risk, it will only take three days for a human being to die, once the rabies enter the central nervous system,” the doc warned the public. Presently, the vetmed office in Catbalogan offers free vaccination to pets. As the country expects to be rabies-free by 2030, Cinco strongly urged the public to be aware so that they can prevent rabies. Cure for anti-rabies injection may cost a victim some Php 6 thousand so that he reminds the public to be careful. (nbq/PIA 8-Samar)
DPWH-SoLeyte engineers join PICE confab Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 26 (PIA) -- Forty One engineers from the Department of Public Works and Highways-Southern Leyte District Engineering Office (DPWH-SLDEO) were required to participate in the 8th technical conference of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) held recently.
T
he PICE activity is part of the department‟s upgrading initiative which is also aimed for global competitiveness and observe responsible practices in the bid to deliver quality projects, District Engineer Ma. Margarita Junia informed. It was learned that the said field office had the most number of participants among the 13 district offices in Eastern Visayas during the PICE conference held at DPWH regional conference hall. “Topics were very helpful in our engineering practice especially now that we are pushing for global competitiveness and build more resilient structures. This will really add
points to their continuing education,” said Junia. The gathering tackled topics on Association of Southeast Asian Nation engineers register, foundation and design considerations for buildings in urban areas, soil stabilization and ground improvement, safety and risk management, project quality assurance, and storm surges and waves. Junia said that the undertaking was very timely especially that the office of Southern Leyte Rep. Roger Mercado has been closely coordinating with DPWH to assess infrastructure needs of communities. Last year, SLDEO has hired additional 11
young engineers to carry out project quality assurance and monitoring, bringing the total to 41 engineers serving in the district. The DPWH-SLDEO is tasked to maintain 299 kilometers of national roads and 155 bridges built in 18 towns and one city. The source said that for this year, the field office is implementing P1.3 billion worth of projects. These are 88 percent complete as of September. The proposed budget for 2017 has increased to P1.74 billion. “With more competitive engineers that we have, we want to design projects in such a way it will be more sustainable and more beneficial to everyone,” Junia added. (rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)
One Visayas e-newsletter is published weekly by the Visayas Regional Cluster of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) comprising Region 6, 7 and 8. Its main editorial office is located at PIA Region 6, Iloilo City. One Visayas e-newsletter is part of the online news and information dissemination services of PIA and is powered by www.issuu.com. For inquiries and suggestions, call Tel. Nos. (033) 3378719/3377301 or e-mail piaamo6@yahoo.com.
Ms. Minerva BC Newman 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. BaĂąares 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, Childrenâ€&#x;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