PIA REGIONAL OFFICES IN MINDANAO
An Electronic News Magazine of the Phliippine Information Agency Mindanao Clusters
Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)
EDITORIAL BOARD
P. Urro Street, San Francisco District Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016 Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038 Cellphone no. 0908-8843404 E-mail: r9_pia@yahoo.com mimibern17@yahoo.com Skype: hnb_r9pia
Northern Mindanao Graces’ Building, Antonio Luna Street Cagayan de Oro City 9000 Telefax No. (08822) 72-66-83 Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594 Cellphone no. 0928-5204305 0917-3084969 E-mail: pia10_pd@yahoo.com r10_pia@yahoo.com rutchiecabahug@yahoo.com
ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Caraga Region
Associate Editors …….......
OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII
RUTCHIE C. AGUHOB Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X
NOEMI A. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX
Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Elaine O. Ratunil, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region Nora CL Molde, PIA Caraga Region
Layout Artists ……………... Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region Editorial Advisers ……….... ATTY. JOSE A. FABIA Director-General Philippine Information Agency
Central Mindanao (SOCSKARGEN)
Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg., J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239 Telefax no. (085) 341-2370 Cellphone no. 0917-7188834 Email: piacaraga@gmail.com pia_caraga@yahoo.com,ph
Managing Editor …….........
Copy Editor ……………….. Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region
2/F Kanto Motors Bldg., Quimpo Blvd., New Matina Davao City 8000 Telephone no. (082) 297-0991 / 301-8580 Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 / 304-2044 Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950 E-mail: efelbanbuena@yahoo.com
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)
EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI
Regional Desk Editors …...
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)
Provincial Capitol Compound Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St. Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506 Telephone no. (083) 520-0249 Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100 Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307 E-mail: r12_pia@yahoo.com pia_xii@yahoo.com
Executive Editor …….........
SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMA Presidential Communications Operations Office
OUR COVER
features
the things to do in
LAKE SEBU
Photo Credits:http://islandparadisephilippines.com,
Cover Story :
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Vol. 1, No. 93
Things to do in Lake Sebu by Dani Doguiles
NATI O NAL
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President Aquino back from 2011 APEC Summit
11
President Aquino to underscore significant role of migrant workers at ASEAN Summit in Bali
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Aquino to meet US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to renew economic, defense cooperation
NORTHERN Mindanao
30 31 33 34 35
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contents
CARAGA Region
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PIA-Caraga chief urges gov’t info officers to join MindaComNet Congress
TUCP trains new breed of young CBA negotiators NEDA and Surigao del Norte LGU to hold area plan validation workshop
SOUTHERN Mindanao
168 soldiers undergo civil-military operations training
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Zaragoza Foods is 2011 Productivity Olympics national finalist DSWD releases P625M for social pension program for indigent seniors LTFRB,LTO to conduct inspection on PUBs,PUJs’ franchise Beautiful Christmas decors to light the entire city plaza DDB hails Dipolog’s anti-drug abuse drive
CENTRAL Mindanao
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Vigilant moms as deterrent to ‘illegal’ price hikes Govt., private sectors urged to follow “Juan Time” New DavNor sports complex to serve as socio-economic catalyst
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NorMin journalists tackle disaster, environment reporting
Pre Pacquiao-Marquez fight buy-bust operations led to arrest of drug pushers
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PDEA files cases against 21 illegal drug pushers in Agusan del Sur
Easier win for Ginebra in Lanao Norte
Mis. Occ. launches provincial smoke-free campaign
WESTERN Mindanao
SEC to conduct seminar-workshop on campus journalism
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NOVEMBER 15, 2011
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43 44
Governor Migs inspects JeepneED Hundreds join “11-11-11 Takbo Gensan”
Army maglalagay ng detachment sa area ng SUMIFRU banana plantation Lumang Koronadal City Hall lalagyan ng lock-up cell Ika 22 anibersaryo ng ARMM, ipinagdiriwang
Cover Story Things to do in Lake Sebu by Dani Doguiles
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s there any other thing I can do in Lake Sebu besides taking the zip line?�
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Monday, November 14, 2011
Like my friend who has aversion to heights, many people , especially those who are not keen on adrenaline-pumping adventures would most likely ask this question. It’s given: Lake Sebu is now synonymous to the Seven Falls Zip line. But South Cotabato’s premiere destination for both foreign and local tourists offers a lot more. Travellers who want to spend time to commune with nature or relax from hectic urban life and those who want adventure can have several choices to venture in. Here are some: Enjoy nature
The environs of Lake Sebu make for a very ideal location to simply indulge in the wonders of pristine nature. Each morning , the lake greets you with a mist that would have you think the very placid blue lake actually evaporating as the sun rises. You would also wonder how come a lake that has no tributary can be so wide -- 354 hectares -- and deep – more than 2,000 feet deep. (Side note: Lake Sebu town has three lakes, namely: Lahit, Sebu, and Seloton. Of the three lakes, Lahit is the smallest, and Seloton , although only 75 hectares wide, is much deeper than Sebu.) If you get tired of the Lake you have the Dongon Falls to come to. Dongon Falls, by the way, is now more popular by the name The Seven Falls. As the name suggests, Dongon Falls is a series of seven falls within a span of less than three kilometers. The first of the seven falls is the widest and the second is the tallest, dropping about 500 feet. Five of the seven falls are accessible via an inter-connectTuesday, November 15, 2011
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ed foot path that the provincial government built for visitors but since the area is within a forest, a guide may be needed if you want to walk to Falls Number 3 to 5. If your forte is mountain trekking, then I suggest you visit the Trankini Falls. According to those who have gone to the place (I haven’t been there, unfortunately.), a trek to the falls, which is still undeveloped, is an experience of a lifetime. Flora here is also unique.
“God was in his happiest moment when he created the flowers in Lake Sebu,” a friend 6
Monday, November 14, 2011
said. “It’s as if God poured extra color and more cells to plants here.” You will find plants that are hardly seen elsewhere: a plant whose flowers resemble a furry cat’s tail only its golden yellow, gumamela that has flowers 8 inches wide or one that looks like a crumpled bloodred paper with streaks of milk, yellow bells that are about a foot long, and so many species that botanist would have a field day naming all of them. Travel around the lake on a boat
Two resort operators in the definitely an educational ride. area have boating services That’s guaranteed. for a fee of P450 per trip. But wait. This is much cheaper Try Tilapia than you think, a boat can carry up to 14 persons. If you don’t have this many companions, there are several groups who recruit additional persons who would like to join them. With you on the boat is a lady guide who will provide very significant information about the lake, the town and its people. She will also answer to all your queries, of course about the lake. All the resort restaurants Along the trip you will hear even the smallest carenderia in her say these: the town offer tilapia recipes. “We are now in the deepest (The town is a major producer part of the lake. Experts say of Tilapia in south central Minthis part of the lake is more danao, even serving as far as than 2,000 feet deep.” Davao City.) You’ll have choices “Once a year, the lake ex- from paksiw to tinolang tilapia, periences what we call as “ka- to the rarely heard chicharong mahong” or fish kill because…” tilapia, pinaputukang tilapia to “That islet on your right tilapura (tempurang tilapia). used to be the burial site of the An advice to those who are T’bolis living around the lake. not used to eating this freshIt is a tradition of the T’bolis to water fish: Just take an initial wrap their dead in a white bite. I assure you will be lookcloth and hang them on a tree ing for more. to dry.” In one of the resorts, you The 30- 45 minute ride is will be treated to a song-andTuesday, November 15, 2011
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dance performance from T’bolis ipality. It’s also the most conin the area while you have your venient transport from the end meal. of the zip line back to first station, unless you want to take Take a walk or ride the “ha- the stairs (Let’s talk about this bal-habal” later.) Although to first-time riders, taking the “habal-habal” seems daunting, the you will be treated to a magnificent view of the lake as you travel through Lake Sebu’s winding road. Drivers of these motor bikes would also assure you that the trip is safe. Take the 774-step stairs I personally suggest taking a walk from Lake Lahit up to the zip line station, especially around 7:30 to 8:00 (the time the zip line operators start accepting riders) especially when you are a group. Even when the sun is high you don’t have to worry of sun burn because you will be walking under the canopy of a forest. After taking the zip line, “Habal-habal” (motor your most likely destination is bikes) are the primary means Falls Number 2 where visitors of transportation within munic- stay the longest. The place is 8
Monday, November 14, 2011
very ideal for taking pictures and for picnics. The area, however, is in one of the lowest part of the entire zip line park and everyone has to go back up the first station to where most vehicles are parked. To go up, ride a habal-habal. Or tighten your trainers’ laces and take the breath-taking (literally) 774step stairs. What’s great about this route is you are climbing up via a forest, a natural habitat of monkeys. If your are lucky enough, these monkeys may walk by you. Another advice: The route is very ideal for those who have strong lungs and those who have much time to trifle away. Those who have companions waiting for them in a vehicle at the parking lot are aadvised not to take the stairs because this really takes so much time, not only because of the long climb up but also because you will definitely enjoy what you will see and hear along the way.
The ultimate: RIDE THE ZIPLINE! Your Lake Sebu experience is never an experience if you have not braved the Seven Falls Zipline! Actually, you do not zip above all the seven falls. The
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first zip line starts just below Falls Number 1 -- a few meters above where the tallest Falls Number 2 drops – and ends below Falls Number 5. Imagine flying 600 feet -- yes, 600 feet, the highest in Southeast Asia -- above waterfalls, a river and a verdant forest. It’s exhilarating! The first line is 700 meters long and takes about a minute to complete; the second line is only 400 meters long but the angle a little more steep that
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Monday, November 14, 2011
makes the travel faster. Safe? Yes, it is. Ask the staff who straps you into your safety gears and the zipline and they will tell you, the zipline is capable of carrying a load of 20,000 kilograms. By the way, when you travel to Lake Sebu bring your own camera, a lot of batteries and an extra memory. Not having photographs of your travel to the place is the most unfortunate thing to happen.
President Aquino back from 2011 APEC Summit
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III arrived Monday night after joining 20 other world leaders at the 2011 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit held in Honolulu, Hawai from November 11 to 13.
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The President’s chartered airline flight PR001 arrived a little past 2 a.m. at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal II. In his arrival speech, the President cited the APEC Summit where 21 world leaders joined hands to unite and help each other and their respective neighbors against the economic turmoil affecting the world. “Ito ang halaga ng tatlong araw na pakikilahok natin sa 19th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting sa Honolulu, Hawaii: dalawampu’t isang ekonomiyang nagkakapit-bisig upang pigilan ang paglawak ng pinsalang pampinansyal sa Asya Pasipiko; dalawampu’t isang ekonomiyang sabaysabay na sumasagwan tungo sa pagkakaisa, 12
kapayapaan at kaunlaran,” the President said. He pointed out that topics on energy, job generation and maintaining peace and stability in the region were just some of what the discussions centered on during their meetings. “Higit sa lahat, ang bunga ng mga inisyatibang ipinunla sa APEC ngayong taon ay aanihin at pakikinabangan, hindi lamang ng kasalukuyang henerasyon, kundi maging ng susunod pang salinlahi,” the President said. He extended his appreciation to Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard for her country’s fund assistance of $1-million to be used for those affected by the floods spawned by typhoons Pedring and Quiel. “Kapwa nanalig ang ating mga bansa sa patuloy na pakiki-agapay, at sa mas matatag
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
pang kooperasyon sa hinaharap,” the President said. He also mentioned the fruitful talks he had with the government of Chinese Taipei on possible investments and on overseas Filipino workers working in their country. In ending, the President assured Filipinos that he continues to have the best interest of the Filipino people in mind during his domestic and foreign travels. “Makatitiyak po kayong nasa loob o labas man po tayo ng bansa, ang kapakanan lamang ng bawat Pilipino ang dala-dala natin. Samahan po ninyo ako: isang bansa nating tibagin ang mga balakid sa daan; isang bansa nating tahakin ang tuwid na landas, at isang bansa nating abutin ang katuparan ng ating mga pangarap,” the President said. (RCK)
President Aquino to underscore significant role of migrant workers at ASEAN Summit in Bali
C
iting the advocacies of President Benigno S. Aquino III for the Filipinos, a senior foreign affairs official said that the Aquino government has been stern on promoting programs and action plans for the protection and assurance of benefits of migrant workers considering that the country has highest number of laborers in foreign lands within the Southeast Asian region.
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Ambassador Wilfrido Villacorta, Philippine Permanent Representative to the Association of Southeast Asian Region (ASEAN), in an interview at the Courtyard Mariott Bali Nusa Dua Hotel, underscored here on Monday that the Philippines under the Aquino government is a role model for its neighboring countries and fellow members in the Asean, specifically on laws and regulations that concern migrant workers. “Ang Pilipinas ay isa sa mga nagsusulong ng karapatan ng mga manggagawa sa ibang bansa… at isang modelo ang mga patakaran at mga batas ng Pilipinas tungo sa pangangalaga ng mga trabahador sa ibang 14
bansa. Tinitingala tayo ng mga ibang bansang nagpapadala rin ng mga manggagawa sa ibang bansa tulad ng Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India ay tayo ay tinutularan sapagkat ang ating pamahalaan ay isa sa mga pinakamaunlad sa larangan na ito,” Villacorta said. He said that the government has always been serious in pushing for the protection of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) that comprises at least 700 thousand in the Asian region alone. “Dahil sa napakaraming Pilipino na nagtatrabaho sa buong mundo, at dito lamang sa Asya ay umaabot na sa 700 thousand ang mga ito… kailangang kailangan talagang protektahan ng ating pamahalaan ang mga nagtatrabahong ito sa ibang bansa at tu-
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
mulong sa kanilang mga suliranain, sa kanilang pakikitungo sa pinaninilbihan nila,” Villacorta said. Migrant workers protection is one of the various advocacies of President Aquino that will be discussed during his meetings with counterparts in the Asean. The President will be arriving here on Thursday to attend the 19th Asean Summit and Related Summits 2011 at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center, here. Villacorta said that apart from economic stability and protection for the citizenry, the Asean also pursues fostering a caring and sharing community for the ten member-nations. “Isa pa sa mga layunin ng Asean ay ang pagtatatag ng isang caring and sharing society sa buong
Asean region sapagkat hindi lamang mahalaga ang kaunlaran sa kabuhayan kung di pati na rin ang kaligayahan at kaginhawahan ng mga tao sa lahat ng mga bansang nakapaloob dito,� Villacorta noted.
Also expected to attend during the annual event are leaders of the dialogue partners of the Asean led by United States President Barrack Obama, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, Australian Prime Minister
Julia Gillard, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, among others. (JCL)
Aquino to meet US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to renew economic, defense cooperation
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will be meeting Wednesday to sign an economic partnership agreement as well as to strengthen defense cooperation between the Philippines and the United States. Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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Clinton arrives in Manila Tuesday and will be in the country to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the USPhilippines Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT). She will also participate in a signing ceremony for the Partnership for Growth (PFG) with the Philippines, as well as the launching of its implementation phase. Clinton and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario will sign the PFG in Malacanang Wednesday morning to be witnessed by President Aquino. At the MDT anniversary celebration on board the US Fitzgerald, Secretary Clinton will sign a Manila Declaration that will reaffirm US commitment under the Mu16
tual Defense Treaty so that the two countries could work together on issues of mutual interests. Following a meeting with President Aquino, Clinton will deliver remarks at the ceremony to launch the implementation phase of the PFG at the US Embassy’s reception hall. In the afternoon where Clinton will also hold a live social media conversation with Filipino youth. PFG initiative is a joint Philippine-US undertaking promoting and supporting broadbased economic growth of emerging markets like the Philippines. It aims to assist selected countries to achieve higher and sustained economic growth through a more transparent, predictable, and consistent legal and regulatory regime. PFG also supports
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
a more open and competitive business environment, assists countries to strengthen their rule of law that is grounded in an efficient court system as well as supporting their fiscal stability. The Philippines is the only one in Asia to be included in the PFG initiative and one of the four pilot partner countries selected by the US. The selection of the Philippines as a PFG partner country in January 2011 was based on the country’s track record in partnering with the US government and its potential for continued economic growth. The PFG initiative is an effort to put into practice US President Barack Obama’s presidential policy directive on global development. (AS)
SEC to conduct seminar-workshop on campus journalism by Robert E. Roperos
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n an effort to develop the writing skills of its campus journalists, Surigao Education Center (SEC), the only school in Surigao City certified by the International Organization for Standardization, (ISO) will conduct a two-day seminar-workshop on campus journalism on November 17-18 in Surigao City.
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Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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In a statement, Prof. Joewaren Sulima, SEC training officer said the activity aims to make the editorial staff, school paper advisers and teachers from grade school to college departments become competent and responsible campus journalists--from news data gathering, writing, to releasing of school paper on time. Prof. Sulima also said the teachers and school paper advisers shall be able to know the current trends and issues in campus journalism in order for them to uphold the value of integrity and responsibility in writing news, opin18
ions and events. Further, Sulima said pupils and students would be able to fully understand their role and responsibility in campus journalism as a reliable media in school. The school’s training officer also said students and teachers would be able to enhance and refresh their writing ability through the workshop, as well as to improve the quality of the campus paper based on the new trends and update of journalism. Invited speakers are Provincial Information Center Managers of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in Caraga Region. PIA Surigao del Norte Information Center Manager Fryan E. Abkilan will discuss on News Writing while David M. Suyao, Information Center Manager of Agusan del Sur
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Provincial Information Center will discuss on Editorial Writing, Feature Writing and Photojournalism. To complete the journalism activities, the participants will be trained on a computer based Layouting using Adobe InDesign CS3 software. Afterwhich, the finished product will be uploaded in a web hosting for the electronic type of document. This is one of the latest innovations in as far as quad media is concerned, producing electronic newspapers, magazines, newsletters, campus papers, and the like. With these developments, Sulima hoped that after the training, editorial staff school paper advisers will be able to produce quality school paper as they adhere in writing balanced news, issues, opinions and events in responsible campus journalism.
PDEA files cases against 21 illegal drug pushers in Agusan del Sur by David M. Suyao
AGUSAN DEL SUR -- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has filed cases of illegal drug-related crimes against 21 individuals from Agusan del Sur ending their third quarter operations here. The arrested suspects whose cases are now filed in court came from the municipalities of Bayugan- 4; Bunawan-1; La Paz-3; Prosperidad-1; San Francisco-6, Sibagat-2; Talacogon- 1; Trento-2 and; Veruela-1. Among the illegal drugs found in their possession were Methamphetamine hydrochloride or “Shabu” and marijuana, according to reports by PDEA. “These offenders were arrested thru our buy-bust operations, inflagrante de licto, search warrant and during the conduct of checkpoints. But in our assessment, the situation is just moderate if we compare
it in seriously affected areas where there is existence of drug laboratories, warehouse, den drive, resort, marijuana plantation or similar establishment,” PDEA OICRegional Director Joel Plaza said. “As per our surveillance also, the sources of drugs transported here came from Manila, Cebu, Marawi, Ozamis, Iligan, Cotabato and Davao, and the landing points of these ilegal drugs are in Manila, Cebu, Davao, Marawi, Ozamis and Cotabato,” he added. According to Dir. Plaza, in just a matter of one month, they had two significant accomplishment recorded. On
June 8, together with the joint elements of Regional Special Operations Task Group, 13th Regional Public Safety Management Battalion, La Paz Municipal Police Station, they uprooted Marijuana Plants at Sitio Umayam, Brgy Kasapa II, La Paz, Agusan del Sur approximately 532 fully grown marijuana plants and 1000 seedlings with a value of Php156,400. “Again, on July 8, another 5,188 fully grown Marijuana plants were uprooted and immediately burned at the plantation site by joint elements of PDEA RO 13, RPSB 13, RSOTG 13, 26th IB PA, and 402nd Brigade PA at Sitio Mac-
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tan, Brgy. Kasapa I, Agusan del Sur with an estimated value of PhP 1,074,200.00,” Dir. Plaza said. Presently, according to Dir. Plaza, his office is focusing on watch listed/target listed per-
sonalities, activation or reactivation of AntiDrug Abuse Councils in the barangay, city, municipal and provincial levels in support of overall government efforts to address illegal drugs and intensifying
info drive campaign/ drug abuse prevention symposia by tapping other sectors of the society which would serve as one of our catalysts and partners in making Caraga a drug free region.
PIA-Caraga chief urges gov’t info officers to join MindaComNet Congress BUTUAN CITY -- Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Northeastern Mindanao Information Cluster Head and concurrent Regional Director of PIA-Caraga Region Abner M. Caga is inviting all government information officers to participate in the 2011 Mindanao Communicators Network (MindaComNet) Congress on November 28-30 at the Family Country Hotel, General Santos City.
During Monday’s regular staff meeting with PIA-Caraga personnel, Dir. Caga emphasized the importance for information officers in the government agencies to participate in the three-day congress. Caga said the ac20
tivity will not only serve as a venue to boost the camaraderie among government information officers of Mindanao but most especially to enrich the knowledge of government communicators of the latest global trends, as well as the
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
topics and issues to help them create the right communication advocacies in implementing government programs in the ground. The head of the Northeastern Mindanao information cluster also pointed out that with
the latest happenings putting the whole island of Mindanao in negative perspective, it is but necessary that as government communicators, “we need to counter those negative information which is broadcasted and printed in private media stations and out-
fits…This is our role as government information officers,” Caga stressed. Meanwhile, those who are interested to participate may contact Sempa Coronado of PIA Central Mindanao through (083) 228-9739 or at cellphone numbers 09194775200 and
09152888955. A registration fee of P3,600 will cover miscellaneous expenses such as kits, plaques, tokens for the resource speakers, mobilization and communication expenses, office supplies, among others. (Robert E. Roperos)
TUCP trains new breed of young CBA negotiators
W
ith scores of anti-union actions happening all over the world, particularly assaults on security of tenure and collective bargaining, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) and Workers Development Foundation Inc, (WDFI), with assistance from the international labour movement, the International Trade Union Confederation-Asia Pacific (ITUC-AP), takes on the challenge of preparing young trade union leaders for their important roles in the labour movement.
“It’s very reassuring to see many young trade leaders get excited and ready over learning new things, building their negotiation and bargaining skills, taking on higher roles in their unions and the labour movement in general,” noted Bro. Ernesto Herrera, TUCP General Sec-
retary. TUCP and its affiliates get a boost of youthful energy as 25 promising young trade union leaders, industrial relations officers and collective bargaining negotiators from the academe, electronics, agriculture, services, public sector, transportation,
and partner local media in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, get updated on collective bargaining developments, and trained on strategies and techniques in collective bargaining and negotiation. “With many developments in industrial relations, challenges on
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union organizing and collective bargaining/ negotiation, this training could not have come at a more perfect time!,” said Bro. Herrera. The program, developed in partnership with the ITUC-AP, introduced the participants to the collective bargaining process, preparing for negotiations, collective bargaining methods and approaches, and understanding strategies, tactics and counter demands. “This training taught us many things from the basics of industrial relations, bargaining realities, use and analyses of statistics and many more,” said Ferdinand Sornes, union vice president of an electronics company in Region IV. “This will surely help my union improve, enrich and strengthen our bargaining position in years to come,” Sornes added. Various hands-on 22
exercises provided the participants with an opportunity to get familiar with and further build their working knowledge and skills in analysing company’s financial information; computing for wage increases and shares in gains in productivity; developing, costing and presenting bargaining proposals. “Just as the actual negotiation is important, the focus on total preparation for negotiating has never been more important,” said Nicandro Borja, ALU-TUCP regional vice president, reminding the participants that the bargaining process, its outcomes and successes would primarily depend on how well the union prepared. “It is important that unions know where to get financial documents and analyse them properly.” We were able to include in our CBA a provision regarding union’s right/
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
access to information (such as financial statements), shared Vanessa Acenas, a local union auditor of a water district company in Mindanao. In the mock negotiation, the participants practiced newlyacquired negotiation styles and techniques, effective communication skills and proper use of data and information in justifying their CBA proposals, under the guidance of veteran trade union leaders and negotiators. Experts and resource persons from the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) and Bureau of Labour and Employment Statistics (BLES) provided information on trends and developments in collective bargaining negotiation and up-to-date analyses of (2009) negotiated CBAs. (TUCP/PIASurigao del Norte)
NEDA and Surigao del Norte LGU to hold area plan validation workshop
SURIGAO CITY -- The provincial government of Surigao del Norte and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga Regional Office are set to hold an Area Plan 2011-2016 validation workshop for Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands on Nov. 17, this city.
Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Arturo Cruje said the activity aims to solicit comments and suggestions from the Siargao Island local chief executives and planners to finalize the draft Area Plan. “Their inputs to details or specifics on the targets, programs, projects
and activities of the said plan are very important and crucial,� he said. Cruje said they have invited the municipal mayors and Municipal Planning and Development Coordinators of Siargao Island to attend the said activity which will promptly start at 9:00a.m. at Guyam Function Room,
Gateway Hotel. He further revealed that the Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands Area Planning is a special project of NEDA through Director General Cayetano W. Paderanga and provincial government through Governor Sol Matugas. (PPDO/FEA/ PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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A
Zaragoza Foods is 2011 Productivity Olympics national finalist by Franklin P. Gumapon
bottled sardines manufacturer from this city has emerged as a national finalist in the recently held 2011 Productivity Olympics at Bayleaf Hotel in Manila. Zaragoza Foods Corp., a manufacturer of bottled sardines based in Galas, Dipolog City represented region 9 in the micro, small and medium industry category for the 2011 Productivity Olympics by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) after it was adjudged the regional winner in the same competition held at Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay last month. 24
In here message before the winners/ awardees, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz said: “This year’s winners deserve their awards for each has demonstrated great improvements in productivity and quality excellence.” Baldoz also led the panel of judges in the 2011 Productivity Olympics-national level. It can be recalled that Zaragoza Foods
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
had been a ZaNorteans Achievers Awardee in 2005, outstanding and Globe Masigasig for Mindanao Island in 2008, and this year’s most outstanding employer in the food processing category in the search for outstanding employers and employees in the private sector sponsored by the Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC) and DOLE. (NBE/FPG/ PIA-Zambo. Norte)
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DSWD releases P625M for social pension program for indigent seniors he Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has released P625,320,000 as of October 31, 2011 for the social pension program for indigent senior citizens in all regions, including the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). As of November 4, 2011, a total of 107,431 senior citizens or 77% of the 138,960 beneficiaries for 2011 are now receiving their P500 monthly stipend from DSWD. The social pension program is provided under Republic Act No. 9994, also known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act (ESCA) of 2010. The law prioritizes indigent senior citizens who are frail, sickly and disabled, without any regular source of income and/or support from any member of the family, and not receiving other pension benefits from government and private institutions. P r i o r i t y beneficiaries of the social pension this year
are senior citizens aged 77 years old and above. The list of beneficiaries came from the National Household Targeting System for Poverty reduction (NHTS-PR) of the DSWD, which is the database identifying who and where the poor are. The qualified senior citizens who are not included in the NHST-PR
date were also considered as replacement to those non-qualified and delisted senior citizens due to death or transfer of residence. “We hope that next year (2012) more indigent senior citizens can be provided with the P500 monthly pension by the government with the approval of the 2012
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DSWD proposed budget,” Secretary Dinky Soliman said. The DSWD has a
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proposed budget of P1.2 Billion for 2012 to benefit some 185,914 indigent senior citizens, or 46,954
more than this year’s 138,960 beneficiaries. (JPA/DSWD/PIA9/ CAL/ZamboSur)
LTFRB,LTO to conduct inspection on PUBs,PUJs’ franchise by Alfonso T. Ruda he Regional Office of Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and Land Transportation Office (LTO) will start inspecting the franchises of public utility buses and jeepneys plying the national highway of Zamboanga del Norte as part of its intensified campaign against colorum vehicles
Zerisa Falcasantos Clima, Officer-inCharge of the Technical Department of LTFRB Region 10, based in Zamboanga City will lead the joint inspection team that will man the checkpoint to be established along the national highway at Barangay Galas, Dipolog City. According to Ms. Clima, the primary purpose of their operation is to verify if the operators of the public utility buses and Public Utility Jeepneys have renewed the registration of the franchises of their vehicles plying the route 26
going to Dipolog City as well as if the other requirements set by the LTFRB have been complied with, including the markings of “No Smoking” inside the vehicle. Clima said, operators of the vehicles without the required markings will be summoned by their office to explain the violation and pay the corresponding penalties that will be imposed upon them. R e p o r t s reaching the office
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of LTFRB revealed that the number of colorum vehicles plying along the national highways have increased in some parts of Mindanao, including those with fake franchises. Clima said their action is in response
to
the directive of DOTC Secretary Mar Roxas for an strengthened operation against colorum vehicles. To avoid delay on their travel and possible disruption of operation, Clima appealed to the PUB nd PUJ operators to bring at all times the pertinent documents of the vehicle every time they travel. “The joint inspection will be regularly conducted by LTFRB and LTO every month in Dipolog City and nearby municipalities in the coming months,� Clima said. (JPA/ATR/PIA9Zambo Norte)
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Beautiful Christmas decors to light the entire by Gideon C. Corgue city plaza eople will have the time to feel the spirit of Christmas as we enter the month of December by having a bonding with the whole family and watching beautiful lighted Christmas decorations. The city government thru the city tourism will once again conduct an annual lighted Christmas decor contest
to delight and fill the people with holiday spirit. Lighted Chritmas decor contest committee chair
Engr. Nellie L. Sisona said the committee in its meeting over the weekend has approved the total cash prizes for the con-
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test which amounted to P318,000 and the additional participation from the private sector. Sisona said the committee has decided to increase P10,000 of the five (5) major prizes and P3,000 for the consolation prizes saying that the prices of commodities nowadays have increased. “This years’ lighted Christmas decor contest has the following prizes: P80,000, champion; first runner-up, 60,000; second runner-up, 40,000; third runner-up, 30,000; fourth runner-up, 20,000; and 8,000 each for the consolation prizes. All major winners will also 28
received trophies,” Sisona announced. This years’ participants, Sisona said will be more encouraged to participate because we have increased the prizes. Sisona said the 16 participants who are coming from the government agencies (regional and local), business and private sectors will start putting up their booths on November 16 as
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the light up will officially start on December 8. “We welcomed the participation of Best Emporium, Telecommunications’ office, Globe and Sun Cellular companies which have increased the total number of participants,” Sisona said. Sisona said an added attraction in the activity will be the 45-minute water fountain display to be played twice every night to entertain people of all ages. The lighted Christmas decor contest was realized during the first term of office of Mayor Samuel Co in June 30, 2004. (JPA/GCC/ PIA9-Pagadian)
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DDB hails Dipolog’s anti-drug abuse drive by Franklyn P. Gumapon
nother feather to her cap. City Mayor Evelyn Tang-Uy is scheduled to receive an award from the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) at Quezon City on Nov. 17, 2011 in recognition of her staunch support the government’s fight against drug abuse.
In his letter to Mayor Uy, Undersecretary Edgar Galvante, DDB Officer In-Charge, invited the lady mayor to receive her Plaque of Recognition on Thursday at the Quezon Hall of the Quezon City Sports Club, Inc. along E. Rodriguez st., Quezon City. Galvante has recognized the “efforts and utmost dedication and commitment” of Mayor Uy in contributing to “the success of the na-
tional drug prevention and control campaign” and in supporting the vision of a drug-free Philippines. The city government under the aegis of Mayor Uy is relentlessly running after drug pushers and users in the city with the help of the personnel of Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). Drug buy bust operations jointly conducted by PNP
and PDEA for the past months have cornered several drug pushers and users including some members of the local press. The law enforcers have also arrested some drivers, conductors and inspectors of a bus company plying the route Ozamis City to Dipolog City, as they were allegedly used as drug couriers. (JPA/FPG/PIAZambo. Norte)
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Easier win for Ginebra in Lanao Norte inebra didn’t need any miracle comeback or an overtime period to beat Shopinas. com. One brilliant quarter was more than enough.
The league’s most popular ball club came through with a huge run in the 2nd quarter, and the Kings glided their way to a convincing 9279 victory over the Clickers to spring back into the winning track in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup, here, Saturday night of Nov. 11. Well aware of the ability of 30
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Shopinas.com to pull off its very first win in the season-opening tournament, Ginebra tore the game apart by heavily outscoring the bottom-dwelling franchise, 33-13, in the 2nd period, and in the process collected its 4rth win in eight (8) games while dealing Shopinas.com its 9th loss in a row. That blast the Kings unloaded turned a shaky 20-18 advantage to 53-31 at the halftime break. Ginebra stretched it further to 27 (59-32) on a pair of free throws by Nino Canaleta in the 3rd quarter, and it more or less plucked away the Clickers’ fighting spirit in the Phoenix Fuel-backed match. In that 2nd period, the Clickers committed six (6) errors and gave away 10 points off turnovers. While this was a victory that gave Ginebra a sweep of its head-tohead duel with Shopinas.com in the elimination round, the result was far from the manner by which the Kings won the 1st encounter, last Oct. 26. In that contest, Ginebra trailed
by five points with 55.2 seconds left to play in regulation, but somehow conjured a magical comeback to send the game into extra time and eventually won it, 94-90. Willy Wilson scored 12 points and pulled down nine (9) rebounds, Caneleta had 12 points, and Jay-Jay Helterbrand, fast re-discovering his touch from the long court, added 10 points for the Kings. RJ Jazul led the Clickers with 11 points while Dennis Daa and James Sena contributed 10 apiece. So miserable were the Clickers that they merely shot 35.8 percent from the field, converting just 29 of
their 81 attempts. The Kings had a decent 43 percent clip on 33-of-76 shooting. The scores: Ginebra (92) - W. Wilson 12, Canaleta 12, Helterbrand 10, Villanueva 9, De Ocampo 9, J. Wilson 9, Caguioa 8, Cervantes 6, Tubid 5, Labagala 5, Cortez 3, Intal 2, Aquino 2. Shopinas.com (79) - Jazul 11, Daa 10, Sena 10, Mirza 10, Hubalde 7, Sison 5, Duncil 5, Ritualo 5, Menor 5, Espiritu 5, Se 4, Aquino 0, Hermida 0. Quarterscores: 20-18, 53-31, 7250, 92-79. (PIO)
NorMin journalists tackle disaster, environment reporting By Apipa Bagumbaran CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental - More than 20 media practitioners from Northern Mindanao have recently gathered for this year’s 2nd Regional Media Conference which focused on reporting disasters and environmental reporting. Anchored on the theme “Environment Watch: Reporting Disaster,” the media conference was held from November 9-10 at Balay Mindanaw Peace Center, here. For the past years, we’ve noticed so many disasters have happened in Mindanao and it’s high time we talked about it, said Amy Cabusao, editor-inchief of The Mindanao Times. She emphasized that the most important story journalists could tell their audience when disaster strikes is about safety. “Journalists could tell their
audience where they should go and what they should do to ensure that they are safe,” she said. Cabusao, who gave a lecture on ”Reporting on Disaster,” also cited that disaster reporting has two (2) phases, the initial report or the breaking news and the follow-up story or the more detailed report on the disaster, how it can be prevented and how its impact will be dealt with. On the other hand, a separate discussion on the Safety Measures and Guides in Disaster Reporting was also given by Froilan Gallardo of the Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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MindaNews. “Journalists face challenges in covering disasters, such as, floods, fires, landslides and the like, and oftentimes, safety is disregarded,” he stressed. He said journalists covering disasters should prepare for the coverage by wearing the appropriate get-up, like boots, rain jackets and raincoats, and bring their own provisions when going to the area. He even cited the necessity to bring safety equipment such as helmets, flashlight, water bottle, plastic or grocery bags, and first-aid kit when covering disasters. Gallardo further stressed the importance of communicating with the news desk when going to the disasterhit area. Meanwhile, Frencie Carreon of The PhilSouth Angle, underscored the need to get a good grasp of statistics and going back to history in reporting environment-related crimes. She emphasized that beyond what is visible, like reporting the conflict, the parties in the conflict and their goals, journalists should also report the deeper roots of conflict, its social structure and culture, including the history of both. Providing all these will give the people the better insights of the problem, she said, during her discussion on Peace Journalism and Environment Reporting. She also told participants to provide background information without showing that they’re leaning on one side pointing-out that a responsible journalist does not take sides. Carreon, further, reminded the journalists not to rely completely on 32
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elite sources, but, also to interview the community folk and residents and give voice to the minority. If violence erupts, the journalists should also report the invisible effects, such as, trauma and hatred, and the desire for revenge and for more glory, she added. Other topics discussed during the 2-day gathering included the following: Mining Issues in Northern Mindanao and the Rights of the Indigenous Peoples by Daniel Belderol of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and Jomorito Goaynon of the Kalumpay Regional Lumad Organization of Northern Mindanao. Impact of Climate Change by Philline Marie Dongay of the Climate Project, Weather Causing Phenomena by Mario Guya of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services and Administration (PAG-ASA) and The Misamis Oriental Provincial Disaster Control and Risk Reduction Management Plan by Teddy Sabuga-a of the Provincial Disaster Control and Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC). Empowering Northern Mindanao Through Solar Power by Ralph Paguio of the Cagayan Electric Power & Light Co. (CEPALCO) and the Ecotourism Sites in Northern Mindanao by Decius Esmedalla of the Department of Tourism (DOT), region 10. The confab was the last leg of the Regional Media Conference organized by the Mindanao Media Forum in partnership with MindaNews and the Voice of Mindanao, a non-government organization composed of young professionals.
Mis. Occ. launches provincial smoke-free campaign by Elaine O. Ratunil
OROQUIETA, Misamis Occidental – The provincial government here intensified its advocacy against smoking as it launched smoke-free Misamis Occidental campaign. Responding to a recently approved anti-smoking ordinance by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the launching was among the highlights of “Pas’Ungko s’g MisOcc 2011,” celebrating its 82nd anniversary, with the theme: “Misamisnong Kultura atong Higugmaon alang sa Padayon Nga Kalambuan.” Governor Hermie M. Ramiro expressed support to the initiative as this is among her priority programs on promoting health and well-being not only among Misamisnons, but of the tourists, as well. The Department of Health (DOH), on the other hand, expressed hopes for the full implementation of the ordinance as this would contribute to the development and success of the province thru the support and cooperation of the people. Early this year, a new mass media campaign called “Cigarettes Are Eating You Alive,” was also launched to encourage Misamisnons to stop smoking. Adapted from an international campaign, “Cigarettes Are Eating You Alive,” was developed by DOH and the Bloomberg initiative to reduce tobacco use with technical support from World Lung Foundation.
The campaign visually depicts how smoking damages vital organs of the body and can cause serious health problems, to the smoker. Each day, 240 Filipinos die due to tobacco-related diseases, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Rachel T. Micarandayo, said. She said “cigarette smoke poses a grave danger to the health of all Misamisnons as the number of deaths and diseases related to tobacco smoke have been increasing.” “It is the duty of the PHO to safeguard the well-being of the populace and to educate them on the ill-effects of smoking and secondhand smoke,” Micarandayo added. Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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Pre Pacquiao-Marquez fight buy-bust operations led to arrest of drug pushers By: Juliet Cagaanan
VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon – A buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) at 4:30 a.m., Nov. 13, here, led to the arrest of Renato Sabellina Aylo alias Bobong, male, 41 years old, married, motorela driver, residing at Purok 2, this city. Regional Director Roberto S. Opeña of PDEA, region 10, said the operation, which was headed by Investigation Officer (IO) 1 Randy T. Pulmano of PDEA and the Bukidnon Special Enforcement Team, took place at Room #14 Gene’s Lodge, Poblacion, this city. Bought from the suspect were two (2) pieces of heatsealed transparent plastic sachets (HSTPS) containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu by a PDEA agent who acted as poseur-buyer. Also recovered from his possession and control were two (2) pcs. Of the HSTPS containing
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suspected shabu with the total confiscated drug items weighing more or less 0.5 grams amounting to Php 5,000. During the investigation, a follow-up anti-illegal drug operation for delivery was conceptualized around 5:30 a.m. of the same day at Sunkist Village, Purok 17 C, Poblacion, this city. The operation also resulted to the successful arrests of suspected pushers identified as spouses Rasmera Musor Radiamoda alias Rakila Raupan, female, 38 years old, married, housewife and Nasser Didaagun Radiamoda alias Nasser Raupan, male, 49 years old, farmer married, both are residents of Buntungan, Wao, Lanao del Sur. Recovered from their possession and control was one (1) pc. HSTPS containing suspected shabu weighing more or less one (1) gram amounting to Php 10,000. Also arrested during the operation, was suspected drug pusher and courier identified as
Bantog Panumblayan Onti alias Bobby, male, 36 years old, DVD vendor, married and residing at Barangay Naga, Marawi City in Lanao del Sur. Confiscated from his possession and control was one (1) pc. HSTPS containing suspected shabu weighing more or less 60 grams amounting Php600,000. A verification was made to PDEA in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and found out that the above-mentioned subjects (Rakila, Nasser and Bobby) were monitored to be the source and has been delivering illegal drugs, specifically, methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known
as shabu from Wao and Marawi City, Lanao del Sur to the different municipalities and cities of Bukidnon Province. The arrested suspects are now temporarily detained at PDEA-10 Regional Office for booking and documentation while the recovered and confiscated drug items were brought to Crime Laboratory of the Philippine National Police (PNP) for quantitative and qualitative examination. Cases for Violation of RA 9165 are being prepared and readied for filing appropriate charges in court against the suspects, Opeňa said. (PDEA10)
168 soldiers undergo civil-military operations training CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City - A total of 168 soldiers attended the Civil-Military Operation Capability Enhancement Training and Subject Matter Experts Exchange (CMOCET-SMEE) held here, last Nov. 7-13. Initiated by the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for CMO, G7, Philippine Army, the said training was conducted to enhance the competency of CMO planners and operators of Army subordinate units and offices. Hosted by the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division, Philippine Army, the week-long activity was
attended by officers and enlisted personnel from the 4ID based, here, and the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division based in Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. The CMO Mobile Training Team (MTT) headed by Col Francisco L. Pabayo, the Assistant Chief of Staff for CMO G7, Philippine Army gave Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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lectures and practical exercises about basic CMO concepts, knowledge and skills that were proven effective in the field to all participants. Said training also became a venue for sharing of best CMO practices by experienced commanders.
He also thanked Lt. Gen. Arturo Ortiz, the former Commanding General of the Philippine Army, for his support to the recently concluded training.
MGen Felix, further, encouraged the participants to apply the knowledge they have gained from the training to their different area of assignments Among the topics discussed and to impart the same to other were: The three (3) CMO Pillars soldiers in their unit. --- Civil Affairs (CA), Public Affairs (PA) and Psychological Operations He said this is to maximize (PO), and its component activities the effect of the training, conducted to gather the needed especially, now that the AFP is participation of all stakeholders in undergoing a paradigm shift the social, political, economic and from a “combat-heavy military security sectors of the country in operations to civil-military connection with the AFP’s fight operations heavy” in connection against insurgency. with the implementation of the new Internal Peace and Security It also included the Army’s Plan “Bayanihan” wherein a collective efforts in winning people-centered approach and a the peace that shall facilitate whole-of-nation approach is being nationwide progress and applied. sustainable development. “The new AFP campaign Major General Victor A Felix plan highlights the role and AFP, 4ID Commander, greatly responsibilities of each and appreciated the efforts of G7, PA, every Filipino when it comes to to go to the different subordinate combating the root causes of units of the Army to conduct these discontent in our country and the kinds of training to enhance and proliferation of issues against the improve the knowledge and skills government that have been fueling of the soldiers. the insurgency for more than four decades now, Felix said. (4CMO) 36
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Vigilant moms as deterrent to ‘illegal’ price hikes by Jean Duron Abangan
(There is a need to focus on housewives) to increase their awareness. They are natural predictors of prices,” Gana-an said citing the choice of mothers as an “unwritten” factor influencing price levels. Gana-an noted the “women factor” of price levels as he revealed that DTI had been on a weekly monitoring of “Noche Buena” products since October, way ahead of the Christmas Season, to keep an early trackncreased vigilance among ing of price movements. mothers can be a good deter- DTI is also establishing a wide comrent to unscrupulous price increas- parison of prices as basis of requiring business establishments to explain es. Trade and Industry Development Specialist Arnulfo J. Gana-an reasons of imposing high price increases, if found to have done so, of the Department of Trade and he said. Industry (DTI) Davao del Norte Noche Buena products monitored field office pointed this out as he by DTI include ham, salad macahad seen women, especially moth- roni, elbow macaroni, tomato sauc, ers, to have a natural tendency of cheese, mayonnaise, fruit cocktail being price conscious. and fruits. He also noted that mothers seeming- Meanwhile, DTI has been encouragly have informal network of knowing ing consumers nationwide to buy which among the business establish- Christmas holiday items ahead of the ments are offering the most affordseason but Gana-an has noted that able prices. business establishments monitored “Dapat tutukan ang housewives in Tagum City are not holding so
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much stocks. “It’s an indication that there is no high consumer demand,” he said. “Here, usually mga second week of December pa ang kusog palit. (Here, usually it’s in the second week of December that sales would pick up.),” he said. On the other hand, month-on-month monitoring of prices of prime commodities showed P0.50 to P1.09 range of increase in prices of canned sardines sold from January to Oc-
tober; P1.60 to P4.50 range of increase in prices of sweetened condensed filled milk; P0.50 to P5.00 for powdered filled milk; P2.00 to P4.39 for coffee refill packs. January to October prices of detergent bars showed very slight increase ranging from P0.40 to P1.40. Prices of Surf bar monitored in the same period, however, decreased by P0.30. (PIA-11/ Jean D. Abangan)
Govt., private sectors urged to follow “Juan Time” by Carina Cayon
DAVAO CITY- An official of the Department of Science and Technology has called on all government agencies and the private sector in the region to unify in the “Juan Time” campaign that aims to promote time-consciousness among Filipinos.
DOST regional director Dr. Anthony C. Sales urged the officials of the national government agencies, local government units and the private sector to adhere to the national call for a synchronized use of the Philippine Standard Time (PST) dubbed as “Juan Time.” DOST in the region is set to launch the Juan Time campaign on November 17 at the NCCC Mall, Davao City. In today’s DXRP Talking Points, Sales said that Juan Time is not just about the synchronization of time pieces in 38
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the country, but “more importantly it is about instilling the culture and value of timeliness among Filipinos.” Sales said that the government sector should be particular not only in providing quality services but also in taking importance to timeliness. He cited that his office is starting to improve organizational culture such as establishing policies for personnel to arrive at meetings and submit reports on time. “This entails political will to start from top to bottom,” Sales stated. Sales disclosed a plan of presenting the Juan Time campaign to the Regional Development Council through the Social Development Committee which he currently chairs. He said that through the RDC, the campaign would roll out to all other NGAs and LGUs for them to
religiously observe the PST. The DOST official also revealed an intention of imparting this undertaking to the Chambers of Commerce that represent the private sectors. He stated that the Juan Time campaign intends to change a perception from the private sector that the government is slow or late in responding, or in providing to the clients’ needs. “We want to develop the confidence and trust of our clients in this endeavor,” Sales said. DOST has initiated the Juan Time project, hoping to replace “Filipino Time” that connotes the notorious
habit of arriving late in the office or in an event, or starting an event 15 minutes or more than the set time. DOST emphasized that, “Juan Time, the new Filipino Time, is on time.” The PST was established decades ago under the auspices of DOST’s Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) but was never strictly enforced. DOST-PAGASA has been the country’s official timekeeper since 1978 per Section 6 of Batas Pambansa Blg. 8, DOST said. (PIA-11/Carina L. Cayon)
Regional Gallery
Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy inspects old armchairs and desks used by students of Domingo B. Hain Elementary School in Barangay Florida, Kapalong, Davao del Norte.this is prior to the distribution of school furniture fabricated by the City Government of Tagum to the said school located in next-door Kapalong Town Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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New DavNor sports complex to serve as socio-economic catalyst
TAGUM CITY-Provincial officials are upbeat the new Davao del Norte Sports Complex will result in substantial socio-economic impact for the province as it will attract more investments and improve the quality of life of the people.
Governor Rodolfo del Rosario said the sports facility will not only benefit people who travel to see big sporting events, but will also inject new spending into the local economy, create jobs and generate tax revenues. The Governor led the groundbreaking ceremony of the P243-million project, which will be built by the Cebu-based Young Builders Corporation (YBC) on a design and build contract – turn key basis. Riding on the uniqueness and supposed auspiciousness of the date, del Rosario laid the time capsule on October 11, 2011 at 11 o’clock in the morning. The project, which is set to be completed before December 12, 2012, includes a main grandstand with about 3,000 sitting capacity, an 8-lane rubberized oval track, outdoor 40
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playing courts, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool, with warm up pool and a grandstand. The 11-hectare facility is being groomed to host major sporting events, such as regional athletic meets, the Batang Pinoy games and the Palarong Pambansa, including sports competitions of big corporations and organizations. According to the governor, as these events attract people from different parts of the region, they would contribute to community visibility and enhancement of the image of the province, in addition to their direct economic benefits. The governor also revealed that a commercial center will be put up within the sports complex, which would truly benefit the small and medium entrepreneurs in the locality. del Rosario is optimistic that a culture of healthy lifestyle and physical fitness will come to light with the establishment of the sports facility. He also hopes, though, that the public will be able to embrace the minimal fee that would be charged intended for the maintenance and operation of the center. Vice Gov. Victorio Suaybaguio, Jr. further said the tourism sector and its related industries in the province will also benefit from the expected influx of visitors during big sporting events.(DAVNOR PIO)
Governor Migs inspects JeepneED Sarangani Governor Migs Dominguez inspects the used vegetable oil-fueled truck used by JeepneED Inc., a Philippine-based non-profit entity which runs the JeepneED mobile science and technology laboratory as it is launched at the flag raising ceremony of Capitol employees Monday, November 14. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)
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Hundreds join “11-11-11 Takbo Gensan” by Pops Gumana-Fruylan GENERAL SANTOS CITY –- Close to 500 runners composed of children and adults participated Friday on the “11-11-11” marathon dubbed as “One Night Run, One Night Fun” under the Takbo Gensan Series of the City Police Office.
City Police Director Atty. Cedrick Train personally supervised deployment of security personnel all over the city, including force multipliers like the “Karancho,” to ensure the safety of the participants in the 1.6K, 3K, 5K and 10K categories. Medical teams were also deployed to strategic areas, where runners are expected to pass in case of any untoward incident. The “11-11-11 One Night Run, One Night Fun” is a collaborative project of the Rotary Clubs of General Santos and Greater GenSan in a move to strengthen the organizations’ Women’s Protection Center as well as their respective Humanitarian and Feeding Programs. Meanwhile, City Me42
dia Affairs Officer, Avel Manansala said the night run event, which officially started at 5:30 in the afternoon, was followed by an outdoor concert to enter-
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tain all the marathon finishers with a live band. “That’s when the One Night Fun aspect of this project begins,” he said. (PIA-Gensan)
Army maglalagay ng detachment sa area ng SUMIFRU banana plantation
KORONADAL CITY – Kinumpirma ni Lt. Col. Alexis Noel Bravo, commanding officer ng 27th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army na maglalagay sila ng detachment malapit sa banana packing house ng SUMIFRO sa Barangay Lacunon, T’boli, South Cotabato. Matatandaang nitong mga nakalipas na mga araw inatake ng mga
napakilalang mga miyembro ng New People’s Army ang naturang packing house na ikinamatay ng isang manggagawa na isang dating miyembro ng NPA. Ani Bravo, layon ng pagtatayo ng detachment sa lugar ang mabantayan ang seguridad ng mga manggagawa sa lugar at mapigilan ang muling pagbalik ng impluwensya ng mga NPA. Subalit, aniya, bagamat may aktibidad ang mga NPA sa lugar, hindi pa naman umano kumpirma na muli nang nag-ooperate ang Front 73 ng NPA sa lugar malapit sa bayan ng T’boli. Matatandaang nitong nakaraang Setyembre, ibinigay na ang 27th IB sa pamahalaang panlalawigan ang pamumuno sa Internal Security Efforts (ISE) sa kadahilanang nabuwag na ang puwersa at impluwensya ang rebeldeng grupo sa lalawigan. (DEDoguiles/PIA 12)
Lumang Koronadal City Hall lalagyan ng lock-up cell KORONADAL CITY-- Pinag-iisipan ngayon ng pamahalaang panglungsod ng Koronadal na ayusin ang isang bahagi ng lumang city hall upang gawing lock-up cell ng Koronadal City Police Station. Ayon kay Mayor Peter B. Miguel, Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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Ika 22 anibersaryo ng ARMM, ipinagdiriwang
Ayon kay Mayor Peter B. Miguel, hinahanapan na ng pondo ng lokal na pamahalaan ang pagkukumpuni ng isang parte ng naturang gusali. Subalit nilinaw naman agad ni Mayor Miguel na pansamantala lamang ang paggamit ng bahagi ng old city hall para gawing lock-up cell habang hindi pa napapalawak ang kasalukuyang lock up cell ng police station. Binigyang-diin pa niya na kailangan ding pangalagaan ang mga nakapiit sa selda dahil tao sila at hindi mga hayop. Nauna nang inihayag ni Mayor Miguel na aayusin ang ang old city hall at gagawing museo at pasalubong center. Aniya, matagal pa naman maipapatupad ang naturang plano kung kaya’t gagamitin muna ang isang maliit na bahagi nito bilang lock up cell. Agad naman umano itong aalisin kung handa nang ipatupad ang planong city museum at pasalubong center. (PIA)
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Tuesday, November 15, 2011
KORONADAL CITY – Sinimulan kahapon ang isang linggong pagdiriwang ng ika-22nd Founding Anniversary ng Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) sa pamamagitan ng isang simplenmg programa na pinasinayaan ni acting Regional Governor Ansaruddin Adiong. Ang okasyon, ayon kay Adiong ay isa umanong magandang dahilan para sa mga residente na magsaya at magdiwang sa kabila ng mga pag-aalinlangan sa kalagayang pampulitika ng rehiyon. Sa nasabing okasyon, pinasalamatan din ni Adiong ang mga kawani ng ARMM, lalo na ang mga rank and file na nananatiling nagtatrabaho kahit pa man umano lampas na sa office hours. Ang isang-linggong pagdiriwang ay magtatampok ng iba’t-ibang mga aktibidad na magsisilbi ring daan upang kilalanin ang mga nagawa ng mga karaniwang empleyado ng autonomous region. Sa kanyang mensahe, pina-alalahanan din ni Adiong ang mga residente ng ARMM na malapit na nitong iwan ang puwesto na may dangal at legasiyang iiwan sa mga residente ng rehiyon. Sa loob ng 606 na araw na panunungkulan, tumanggap ng mataas na performance rating si Adiong at iba pang mga opisyal base sa survey na isinagawa ng Social Weather Station. (ac agad PIA12)
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Tuesday, November 15, 2011