today’s news
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DTI sees increased investments, enhanced exports under new STM Law Malaysia sends another team of peace monitors in Mindanao Barangay assembly slated March 26 Emmanuel D. Taghoy, Western Mindanao
BIR padlocks hardware store in Cagayan de Oro Apipa P. Bagumbaran, Northern Mindanao BFP Iligan gears up ‘Ugnayan sa Barangay’ fire safety campaign Lorry V. Gabule,Northern Mindanao
BFP reminds public to be fire safety cautious Apipa P. Bagumbaran, ARMM
DOH ARMM bats for increased awareness on Zika virus ARMM Two Dabawenyos as Datu Bago awardees RG Alama, Southern Mindanao
Cover Story
Caraga IP youths participate in 5-Day Community-Based Disaster Reduction & Management Trainers’ Training
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
SurSur fire bureau hopes for decline in fire incident Greg Tataro Jr., Caraga March 26, 2016 is Barangay Assembly Day Jason Ryan R. Lam, Caraga
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One Mindanao EDITORIAL BOARD
EDITORIAL ADVISERS
SEC. SONNY B. COLOMA Presidential Communications Operations Office JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information Agency
EXECUTIVE EDITOR EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western & Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI
MANAGING EDITOR ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern & Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director - PIA Caraga Region
ASSOCIATE EDITORS NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX THELMA B. OLIVER Regional Director, PIA Region X OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII
REGIONAL DESK EDITORS
FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IX ALMA L. TINGCANG, PIA Region IX ELAINE O. RATUNIL, PIA Region X RUDOLPH IAN G. ALAMA, PIA Region XI DANNY E. DOGUILES, PIA Region XII FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region
COPY EDITORS FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga Region VENUS L. GARCIA, PIA Caraga Region
SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region
LAYOUT ARTISTS
GIDEON CORGUE, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region X ZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region X DAISY JANE M. APIT, PIA Region XIII
PIA Regional Offices Western Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)
P. Urro Street, San Francisco District Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016 Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038 Cellphone no. 0919-9994516 E-mail: ro9_pia@yahoo.com, mimibern17@yahoo. com Blogspot: www.piazampen.blogspot.com Facebook: PIA WesMin Info Bliz
Northern Mindanao Graces’ Building, Antonio Luna Street Cagayan de Oro City 9000 Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594 Telefax no. (08822) 72-66-83 Cellphone no. 0928-5204305, 0917-3084969 E-mail: pia10_pd@yahoo.com, r10_pia@yahoo.com Blogspot: www.pia-10.blogspot.com
Southern Mindanao (Davao Region) Ground Floor 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
SOCCSKSARGEN Region 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
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga) J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 341-5285 Telefax no. (085) 341-2370 Cellphone no. 0917-7188834 Email: piacaraga@gmail.com , pia_caraga@yahoo. com,ph Website: www.piacaraga.com Facebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur, Pia Dinagat Islands Power FM - Caraga Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga
Cover Story
PIA Caraga receives award from DENR as active environmental advocate by Jennifer P. Gaitano
I
n time with the conduct of Environmental Youth Forum by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga held on Tuesday here, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) headed by regional director Abner Caga received the plaque of appreciation from DENR13 regional director Nonito Tamayo.
“We are awarding this plaque of recognition to our partner PIA for being a dynamic partner of DENR Caraga in achieving significant impact on Climate Change Advocacy, National Greening Program, and other environmental programs by providing timely, accurate, relevant, and free-flowing
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information which brought positive transformation to the lives of peoples and its environment and natural resources in Caraga region,� underscored Dir. Tamayo. On behalf of Dir. Caga, deputy regional director Fryan Abkilan received the plaque and relayed the message of Dir. Caga.
“It cannot be denied that the agency’s efforts in communicating the government’s programs such as the ‘Climate Change Advocacy Campaign’ and coining a brand ‘Nagbabago na ang Panahon, Panahon na Para Magbago’ where the people can recognize & associate with the advocacy has been very effective,” conveyed Abkilan. Abkilan also thanked the media partners and information officers in reaching out to the localities and helping them be informed on the different issues and concerns, as well as getting their feedbacks so the government would be able to directly address their needs. “Thank you to our partners – the local media, the information officers and those in the forefront to disaster risk reduction and management in educating the public on matters that greatly affect the lives of the people, and their reach of more vulnerable and far-flung communities within the region. The objective of softening the apathy of the Filipinos towards the new normal - Climate Change has gradually gaining grounds
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through our effective platforms – the Advance Forward Emergency Broadcasting System, textblast, One Mindanao Electronic Magazine, and PIA Mindanao mobile application, among others,” Abkilan expressed. Abkilan further highlighted that the agency will strive more in the delivery of timely, accurate and relevant information to the public, as well as the environmental campaign with the DENR. “This campaign is just the beginning. We have to strive some more, to be heard and appreciated by and understood by the people, our audience, the youth and to the Caraganons. It is everybody’s concern, indeed. Nagbabago na ang Panahon. Panahon na Para Magbago,” he relayed.
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PhilHealth reforms to ensure fund sustainability file photo http://www.philhealth.gov.ph/
MANDALUYONG CITY -- The President and Chief Executive Officer of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Alexander A. Padilla recently assured the public that the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) fund remains stable and that it is able to fully pay for the benefit claims of its members. In 2015, the PhilHealth paid and the senior citizens. Republic P97 billion, up from P77 billion the Act 10645 or the amendment year before. The Sin Tax Funds to the Senior Citizens Act has allowed PhilHealth enabled the universal membership coverage to enrolment of senior expand benefits to the poor citizens and specifies
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that “funds necessary to ensure the enrollment of all senior citizens not currently covered by any existing category shall be sourced from the National Health Insurance Fund of PhilHealth from proceeds of Republic Act No. 10351, otherwise known as the Sin Tax law.�
at ways to improve operational efficiencies in collection, claims processing and benefit development. For instance, it has developed a strategic, operational analysis and reporting tool which provides real-time information on membership coverage, claims and collections. It is hopeful that this tool, as well as new policies To date, the NHIP has and parameters on benefits, provided coverage to 93 million will help address some major members and dependents, problems. representing 92 percent of the projected 2015 population of Furthermore, as PhilHealth about 101 million. is a social health insurance, wherein membership is assured Padilla however said that without any pre-conditions, it while premium collections in 2015 must now be more discerning reached P96 billion, there is still a of the health care providers it need to improve the consistency will entrust with the care of the of payments by the different millions of Filipinos who depend member-sectors. Collections on PhilHealth for health security. had increased starting in 2013, when the National Government It has also enhanced its started paying the premiums of information technology (IT) poor Filipinos under the National systems, introduced steps to Household Targeting System as ease member registration and a result of additional revenues employer remittance processes, from Sin Taxes. and espoused anti-red tape initiatives particularly in the frontline offices. It has also strengthened its fraud prevention Padilla is cognizant that like and control mechanisms any corporation, PhilHealth such as filing the needs to continuously look appropriate cases,
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file photo mb.com.ph
imposing fines and penalties to erring health care professionals and institutions to protect the health insurance funds.
and surgical procedures, and introduced at least 13 Z Benefit Packages to provide financial risk protection for members coping with illnesses requiring prolonged Padilla also issued an appeal treatment and management. to the sense of social solidarity from the members who earn He asked the public to report more. He also appealed to fraud and anomalies and to refrain companies to regularly remit the from allowing themselves to be proper premiums to PhilHealth. made part of any fraudulent or The Philippines has the lowest abusive practices, to help protect social health insurance premium the fund. rates in Asia and the last time these rates were increased, “The PhilHealth fund is ours particularly in the employed to share during the time when sector, was about two (2) years health problems arise. We need ago. to ensure that no one takes advantage and commits fraud, Despite the status quo in because doing so would deprive premium contribution rates, another member of his right PhilHealth has expanded to health,� Padilla said. its case rates to cover over (PhilHealth) 4,000 medical conditions
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DTI sees increased investments, enhanced exports under new STM Law
file photo
MAKATI CITY -- “Enacting an effective strategic trade law will provide greater opportunities for the Philippines to increase investments in the manufacture, assembly, and export of strategic goods,� said Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary, and Board of Investments (BOI) Managing Head, Ceferino S. Rodolfo. The Strategic Trade administrative supervision of the Management Act (STMA), also DTI, which will be in charge of the known as Republic Act 10697, registration of persons who intend was signed into law by President to engage in trade of strategic Benigno Aquino III in November goods as well as the issuance of last year. Among its key provisions licenses for the export, import, is the creation of a Strategic transit, transshipment re-export Trade Management Office or reassignment of (STMO), an office under the strategic goods.
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Rodolfo said that the strategic trade legislation will provide manufacturers from electronics, chemical, and aerospace industries in the country vast opportunities to increase their production and exports of highvalue strategic goods, either by expanding their operations or attracting new investors.
biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons and their means of delivery to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction.
“Facilitating secure and safe trade in strategic goods will also contribute in domestic efforts to counter terrorism, control crime, safeguard public safety, and increase revenue collection as Strategic goods refer to smuggling and trade diversion products that, for security will be substantially minimized,” reasons or due to international said Rodolfo. agreements, require regulation and control. These include The DTI, together with the accelerometers that are Anti-Terrorism Council and other components used in cell phones, relevant agencies, are currently carbon fiber used as a material crafting the law’s implementing in sporting goods, nitric acid, a rules and regulations (IRRs) chemical that is used in fertilizers, which will be released by 1st and triethanolamine, a chemical semester of this year. used in cosmetics. “We are certain that there The adoption and will also be an increase in demand implementation of a STM Law for highly skilled workers such complies with the Philippines’ as engineers and scientists,” foreign policy, national security added Rodolfo. He said that interests, and commitment under the manufacture of strategic the United Nations Security goods require people possessing Council Resolution 1540. The technological knowhow and resolution obliges all members to expertise. (DTI) develop and enforce appropriate legal and regulatory measures against the proliferation of chemical,
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Malaysia sends another team of peace monitors in Mindanao
http://interaksyon.com/
COTABATO CITY -- Malaysia continues its commitment to support the government peace process in southern Philippines as it deploys another contingent of Malaysian peace monitors to replace another contingent which completed its one year tour of duty on Sunday. The new contingent will replace tomorrow outgoing team after observing for the past 12 months the enforcement of
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ceasefire agreement between Philippine government forces and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
saving lives and properties. Governor Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim M i n d a n a o ( A R M M ) welcomed the new Malaysian peace monitors by describing its contributions to the over-all Malaysian Major Gen. Datuk Wira Zamrose Bin Mohd peace situation in the region. Zain of the Malaysian Royal ARMM is composed of the Armed Forces will lead the new peace monitors called 11TH provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao International Monitoring Team del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi(IMT-11), replacing a team (IMT- Tawi. “This peacekeeping mission 10) led by Major Gen. Dato Sheik plays a very big role in keeping Mokhsin Bin Sheik Hassan. peace in many areas inside the The team, also composed of autonomous region,” Hataman representatives from Brunei and said. Indonesia, and civilian experts The deployment of new peace from Norway, Japan and the European Union. It has been monitors came despite the nonhelping the GPH and the MILF passage of draft Bangsamoro enforce the ceasefire accord Basic Law that will cement the Comprehensive Agreement on since 2003. the Bangsamoro forged in 2014 The agreement was signed by the GPH and MILF. in 1997 and with the presence Malaysia has been working of international monitors, both sides religiously obliged to as “third party facilitator” of the the provisions of the accord, GPH and MILF peace process. March 16, 2016
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No PLDT liability in lineman electrocution, says DOLE By Dominic I. Sanchez ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) - The Philippine Long Distance
Telephone Company (PLDT) has no culpability in the accident concerning one of their linemen who was seriously injured after touching a live wire in barangay Culianan, says a labor official here.
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the
As
per
investigation
Department
Employment
of
Labor
(DOLE),
Ma.
by on
his
upper
extremities,
and
and was immediately brought to the Joy Mindanao
Central
Sanitarium
for
Espinosa of the Occupational Safety medical attention. Apparently, he and Health Center (OSHC) shared could have been spared the accident that
the
victim
Arnel
Nazareno had he been wearing the helmet.
is employed by an independent contractor,
and
not
by
PLDT.
“It is the contractor’s liability,
and not of PLDT,” Espinosa said, since Nazareno exhibits employee-employer relationship with said contractor only.
She explained that it is a
standard operating procedure for the employer to mandate linemen to wear protective gear such as a safety helmet, which allegedly Nazareno was
not
wearing
at
the
time.
According to Espinosa, Nazareno
claimed there was no available helmet during the line installation, while the contractor who requested anonymity
The Employees’ Compensation
says otherwise. The DOLE is still Commission
(ECC),
an
attached
verifying the conflicting statements. DOLE agency has been following
Last March 6 Nazareno was the case since it happened. In its
installing a telephone line in Culianan Facebook page, Jerrick Go, regional when his head touched a live wire. focal person of the ECC said that He suffered second-degree burns Nazareno and his family were “briefed March 16, 2016
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on the EC program and the process region at the Garden Orchid Hotel. of filing (claims and benefits) with The training will run end on March 18. the Social Security System (SSS)”. “We are encouraging all companies
The OSHC is currently conducting for safety-first practices,” Espinosa
occupational safety training for safety stressed. officers for both public and private in
the
“To
many
of
those
labor
sector,
this
could
institutions from different areas in the be a matter of life and death.”
Barangay assembly slated March 26 By: Emmanuel D. Taghoy
ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is set to conduct synchronized barangay assemblies nationwide come March 26 for the first semester of the year.
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This is in compliance with Section them regularly as to their compliance
397 of the Local Government Code of to
the
activity,�
said
Ms.
Lu.
1991, which enjoins every barangay
Barangay Assemblies should be
in the country to deliver their State conducted not less than twice in a of Barangay Address (SOBA), present year pursuant to Chapter 6 of Section their accomplishments and financial 397 of the Local Government Code. reports as well as their priority projects
The
under the recently launched Barangay shall Bottom-Up
Budgeting
Barangay
be
Assembly
spearheaded
by
the
(BBUB) Municipal or City Mayors, Liga ng
program, for the public to know. mga Barangay Chapter President
During the assembly, barangays and the DILG Regional Director.
are also encouraged to educate their
constituents
regarding
Actual
residents
of
the
the barangay who have lived in the
revitalization of the Barangay Anti- barangay for six months or more, Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) and fifteen years old and above, Filipino its role in drug-clearing operations, citizen can attend the said activity. as
well
as
discuss
issues
and
Furthermore,
concerns on disaster preparedness organizations, and
solid
waste
management. mga
faith-based Ugnayan
Barangay
Ms. Josefina Lu, assistant city (UBAS)
and
director of DILG-Zamboanga City said organizations
other are
at
ng
Simbahan civil
also
society invited.
they would allow barangays to conduct Any resident may file a the barangay assembly earlier than complaint against the barangay the target date considering it falls on officials in the event that they fail to conduct the assembly. the Black Saturday of the Holy Week. The barangay assembly aims “It is actually a case to case to strengthen the ties between the basis when the barangays scheduled government and the community the conduct of the Barangay for the effective delivery of basic Assembly. But we are monitoring services to the constituents. March 16, 2016
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Pet owners urged to avail of city vet services
By: City Information Office
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – As the city joins the nation in the observance of Rabies Awareness Month, the City Council committee on health and sanitation of Cagayan de Oro reminds everyone, especially pet owners, of Ordinance No. 9852-2005.
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The ordinance provides the rules and regulations for the control and welfare of animals and imposes penalties for violations. Chapter III, Section 13 of the ordinance, requires owners of dogs and cats to have their pets vaccinated with anti-rabies vaccine. According to City Veterinarian Dr. Perla Asis that her office gives vaccination to dogs and cats that are below three months old. At age three months and every year after that they will be re -vaccinated, she said. Under Section 20, a registration of P20.00 will be collected for every dog or cat vaccinated. Dr. Asis said a certificate will be issued to pet owners together with an information education material about rabies for their guidance. The City Veterinary Office caters to walk in clients as well as conducts rabies vaccination in barangays, she added. As this developed, Councilor Dante Pajo, chair of the committee, encourages pet owners to bring their pets to the City Veterinary Office to
avail of these services. “Kon mahimo, ayaw na paghulat sa schedules sa inyong barangay, mahimong dalahon na kini sa buhatan. Angayan usab kaligoan permi ang mga iro ilabina karon nga ting-init (Dont wait for the schedules in the barangays, if possible bring them to the office. Keep giving your dogs a bath this hot season),” Pajo said.AWARENESS DRIVE In a related development and for purposes for bringing the awareness to young children, the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association R-10 recently sponsored a Poster Making Contest in coordination with the City Schools Division. This morning at the flag raising ceremony, Dr. Asis presented the winners of the contest, namely: Clark Romeo Naces (1st Placer, South City Central School); Fiona Mae Go (2nd Placer, City Central School); Lloryn Angel Quiñones (3rd Placer, South City Central School); Cyril Jude Yañez (4thplacer; South City Central School) and Jules Miquel Guigao (5th placer, City Central School). Councilor Pajo congratulates all the winners and commends the sponsoring group. The slogan of this year’s Rabies Awareness Month is “End Rabies, Now Na.”
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BIR padlocks hardware store in Cagayan de Oro By: Apipa P. Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY– The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in Northern Mindanao padlocked another business establishment here for under declaration of sales by 106 percent or P4,200,406.11. The main office of the Cagayan Diamond Hardware and Auto Supply located in Capt. Vicente Roa corner Hayes Streets and a branch in Aluba, Macasandig, was temporarily shut down this morning as part of the Bureau’s Oplan Kandado program. The establishment was found violating the Tax Code particularly on invoicing, accounting and registration requirements. These include the possession of unregistered delivery receipts; not updating of book of accounts maintained; failure to notify the BIR of the closure of one of its
branches within the time prescribed by law; and issuance of sales invoices in the branch which intended for the exclusive use of the main office. The Oplan Kandado program aims to encourage compliance from delinquent business establishments through strict imposition of administrative sanctions. Under the program, business operations of non-complaint establishments will be temporarily suspended if they will be found to have violated certain provisions of the tax code.
BFP Iligan gears up ‘Ugnayan sa Barangay’ fire safety campaign By: Lorry V. Gabule
ILIGAN CITY – Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Iligan City Fire Office continues to reach out to the public to provide fire prevention information and fire safety consciousness to the community through its Barangay Ugnayan Program.
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This is among its lined up activities in observance of this year’s Fire Prevention Month in March. As kick-off ceremony, a ‘Walk for a Fire-Free and Fire-Safe Nation’ around the city thoroughfare on March 1 joined by participants from all walks of life--students, non-government organizations, youth, public servants, fire volunteers from business establishments, professionals, and firefighters from BFP Iligan. The walk converged at the city public plaza, following thereafter was the five-minute blowing of horns of all firefighting apparatus. Highlighting the kick-off activity was the awarding of certificate of appreciation to those who signified their participation to the walk. As part of its fire safety awareness campaign, and through the Ugnayan sa Barangay and visibility image building campaign, a core group composed of BFP personnel and firefighters, in collaboration with some offices from the local government unit of Iligan,
conducted lectures on fire prevention and distribution of information materials, to schools, plant industries in the area. Further, an important aspect of awareness is the familiarization of their area of responsibility (AOR) including inspection of all establishments. City Fire Marshal Pedro B. Felicilda said that they also conduct fire disaster emergency evacuation planning, and fire drill and testing of fire hydrants. Also, they do monitoring of all hazard operations and identify fire prone areas and conduct Pre-Fire Planning to areas identified. “We have those activities conducted whole-year round, as part of our mission to save lives and protect properties. We see to it that those identified areas are subjected to constant monitoring, ocular inspections and fire safety inspection campaign,” said Felicilda. Meanwhile, the “Berong Bombero sa Paaralan” which is conducted nationwide is the fire safety awareness campaign in all elementary schools thru lectures in a form of storytelling to be more appreciative to school children. According to Felicilda, radio guesting is also one of its medium in fire safety advocacy and fire safety nets cascading facebook account with fire safety infographics.
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RCBW-ARMM urges voters to elect prowomen candidates
T
he Regional Commission on the Bangsamoro Women in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (RCBW) urged voters in the province of Lanao del Sur to elect candidates with prowomen agenda. The appeal was made by RCBW Chairperson Sittie Jehanne Mutin to mark the International Women’s Day celebration in the province.
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For the Bangsamoro women to be truly empowered, we must vote wisely and choose candidates that will carry the agenda of women, said Mu
tin during the women’s day program held March 8, at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall, Marawi city. She said voters should ask the stand of their candidates on issues relevant to women. “Itanong natin sa mga lalaking kandidato kung dala-dala ba nila ang agenda ng kababaihan. Sa mga babaeng kumakandidato naman, tanungin din natin sila kung sila ba ay kumakatawan sa ating mga kababaihan?” (Let’s ask us our men candidates if they are carrying the agenda of women. On the part of the women candidates, let’s also ask them if they are representing the women sector?), she added. Mutin said the agenda is to get more women in politics, more women voices to be out, and women to decide what is best for them. The RCBW chair also challenged
the next administration to push forward pro-women agenda. “Hindo po ba na hindi kumpleto ang lahat ng development kung walang kababaihan? Ang babae ay hindi flower vase kundi katuwang sa lahat,” (The development will not be complete without the women. A woman is not a flower vase, she is a partner to development), she further said. The women’s day celebration was anchored on the theme “Kamapiyaan ni Juana, Irakes sa Bitiyara” (Welfare of Women, Include it in the Agenda) to echo the inclusion of women’s concerns in leadership platforms and government development agenda. (APB/PIA-10)
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BFP reminds public to be fire safety cautious MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Lanao del Sur is reminding the public to be cautious against the dangers of fire during summer season.
BFP Provincial Information Officer FO1 Sahara Macunte Gania said safety precautions should always be taken to prevent fires in homes, offices and communities Always unplug electrical appliances and switch off the main source of power when leaving your house to avoid fire incidents, Gania reiterated during the Ozor ka, Ranao! radio program of the Philippine Information Agency and Radyo ng Bayan in the province. According to the BFP, the common cause of fire incidents recorded in the province is electrical short-circuit
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connections. Last year, 29 fire incidents transpired in the province causing damage of around P6,820,000. BFP further recorded seven fire incidents from January to March 8, this year, with estimated damage of P3,000,000. Gania advised to unplug electrical appliances, including, mobile phone chargers, after every use. Other fire safety tips shared by the BFP include properly storing matches, lighters and other combustibles and keeping them out of children’s reach; regular checking electrical installations; keeping lighted candles in holders or basin partly filled with water; and never leaving the kitchen while cooking. Gania also recommended having an emergency exit plan. Above all, stay calm in case of fire and contact the nearest fire station. March is observed as the National Fire Prevention Month in line with Presidential Proclamation 115-A
to raise awareness on fire safety practices and prevention measures. To intensify fire safety advocacy, the BFP Lanao del Sur is also
conducting Ugnayan sa Barangay to reach out far-flung areas and educate residents on basic fire prevention practices. (APB/PIA-10)
DOH ARMM bats for increased awareness on Zika virus MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The Department of Health in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DOH-ARMM) has reminded residents not to be alarmed notwithstanding reports on Zika infection cases in the country. Christine Joy Capin, DOH-ARMM assistant program nurse coordinator on emerging and re-emerging diseases, said that instead of panicking, the public should be “ready and aware” of the virus and its possible complications. Recently, an American woman who visited the country in January tested positive for Zika virus upon returning home. She was the country’s second laboratory-confirmed case of the mosquito-borne disease. The country had its first reported case of Zika virus infection in 2012, specifically a 15-year-old boy in Cebu. Zika virus is transmitted by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, the same type of mosquito that causes dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever. Zika infection symptoms are similar to those attributed to other mosquito-borne infections such as fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, pain behind the eyes and vomiting. To help protect the residents especially the children, from the virus, DOH-ARMM with the region’s Department of Education, Department of Interior and Local Government, Local Government Units, and non-government organizations provided and installed insecticide-treated screens (ITS) in the region’s public elementary schools. Capin said the screens were treated
with insecticides that can keep out diseasecarrying mosquitoes. These screens have to be installed on windows, or doors, of classrooms. She said the ITS’s effectivity can be as long as five years. Each roll extends 1.5 meters by 25 meters and can cover four to six classroom windows. DOH-ARMM earlier received 120 rolls of ITS from the national government. Capin said they already distributed 70 rolls while the remaining 50 rolls were stocked in the region for emergency purposes. The ITS rolls were distributed in the five provinces and two cities of the region. She said 20 rolls went to the province of Sulu and 10 rolls each to the other four provinces namely Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, and 10 each to the cities of Lamitan and Marawi. The Zika virus has yet to be associated with deaths among adults in the region. However, there is growing evidence that the virus can be harmful to fetuses, causing potentially fatal birth defects such as microcephaly, a birth defect wherein the size of a baby’s head is smaller than expected for his age and sex. The virus can be sexually transmitted by a man to his sex partner. A woman could pass on the virus to her fetus during pregnancy. As of date, there are no available
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vaccines, or specific medicines, to prevent and treat Zika infections. Carin said the best way to prevent Zika infection is to prevent mosquito bites
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through methods such as using insect repellant, using window and door screens, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants. (BPI/APB/PIA-10
Two Dabawenyos as Datu Bago awardees
DAVAO CITY- The two honorees for this year’s Datu Bago Awards had been named and their awards conferred Jesuit priest Fr. William Joseph Malley and visual artist Teody Boylie Roxas Perez Ph.D. are the two Datu Bago awardees for 2016. The conferment was made ing Davao City to prominence belast March 12 at the Royal Man- cause of the numerous national daya Hotel. and international recognition he Fr. Malley was cited for con- got in the field of visual arts. tribution to peace and develop- One of his awards is bement in the grassroots commu- ing the only foreigner to receive nities in Davao City through his the Excellent Award in the 36th ecumenical spiritual training pro- Western Japan Art Competition in gram that promote interfaith dia- 2003. Perez earned his Ph.D. in logue among Moslems and Chris- Fine Arts in Japan through three tians. scholarship grants. He also has A naturalized Filipino since mounted four solo art exhibitions 1979, Fr. Malley founded the Ig- in the country. natius Institute of Religious Edu- Datu Bago Awards named afcation Foundation (IIREF). His in- ter a Muslim chieftain who fought stitute’s scholarship program has Spanish forces in Davao during contributed to the education and the 1800s is the most prestigious values formation of many mar- award given by Davao City to its ginalized youth in Davao City. citizens. His humanitarian mission focused It was created in 1969 to on the inmates of Davao Penal bestow among Dabawenyos who Farm and in the Correctional In- have contributed to the developstitute for Women. ment of the city with exemplary Teody Boylie Roxas Perez competence and dedication and Ph.D. is recognized for catapult- who best serve as models of exMarch 16, 2016
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cellence and inspiration to the tion Inc. with the concurrence of residents of the Davao. the City Mayor. (PIA/RG AlaThe awards are conferred by the ma) Datu Bago Awardees Organiza-
BIR urges taxpayers to file ITR on or before March 30 DAVAO DEL NORTE- Although the deadline is set every April 15 of the year, the Bureau of Internal Revenue District 112 plead to all taxpayers to file Income Tax Return (ITR) for calendar year 2015 on or before March 30. Revenue District Officer Judith achieve our target for this year,” Pacana encouraged recently the she added. taxpayers to file their ITR ear- Despite not reaching the ly to avoid systems congestion, target last year, the collection penalties and inconvenience of goal for District 112 covering the late filing. provinces of Davao del Norte and Pacana emphasized that Compostela Valley was raised most of tax payers were man- from P 2.92-billion to P 3.81-bildated already to file their tax lion. (PIA 11, Michael Uy) returns through the eFiling and Payment System (eFPS). “The secretary (Sec. Kim Henares) said that there will be no condonation if there will be no problem with the eFPS.” She also stressed that at this early, their office started receiving your tax returns to avoid commotion on the last day of filing. Pacana also appealed to tax payers to declare correct income and pay the right taxes. “With your help we can
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Butuan City, AgNor now conflict manageable & ready for further development
By: Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY – In a joint Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) had declared Butuan City and the province of Agusan del Norte as Conflict Manageable and Ready for Further Development held on Monday at the provincial training center here.
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Commanding general of Eastern Mindanao Command Lt. General Rey Leonardo Guerrero was the guest of honor and speaker during said activity. “This declaration was based on the decreased penetration of CPP/NPA in the city and province. I hope that we become more vigilant and diligent in doing our jobs in sustaining peace and order. Positive developments can truly be achieved when we collaboratively work and perform our shared responsibilities,” he stressed. Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. assured that the active collaboration with the law enforcement agencies will continue as the city also aims to sustain peace and development. “Without development there’s no peace and order and vice-versa. We recognized the efforts of our law enforcement agencies for ensuring the safety, peace and order of our city and province in general. I’m very happy that our roadmap for peace is almost ready to be presented to the whole public,” expressed Amante. Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell AmanteMatba emphasized that the government is doing its best to give
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the best service to the public. “We are glad that we have reached several remote areas to provide our services and programs. The next step and goal that we must focus on is to be free from conflicts/insurgency. There is more to be done and we will continue to work together,” she said. “Life and public service without these kind of challenges like that of insurgency crisis can somehow be gauged as effective if we can attain such victory through this declaration. I am confident that more success will come our way with this fruitful endeavor as we gain more potential investors that will help boost our economy,” added Matba. Also, PNP Caraga regional director Police Chief Superintendent Rolando Felix underscored that the declaration is a manifestation of the government’s efforts in maintaining peace and order in the city and the province. “This is expected to bring about more developments in the city and province. The PNP, together with the AFP and other concerned agencies will continue to fulfill our goals and mission for the welfare of the majority,” he remarked.
SurSur fire bureau hopes for decline in fire incident By: Greg Tataro Jr.
file photo: mindanews.com
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur– As the celebration continues for the Fire Prevention Month, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) provincial office under F/Insp. Rowella Dinolan, provincial fire chief, expressed satisfaction that, at least, not a single fire incident had occurred since March 1. However, it was confirmed this year—six of which took place that since 2014 up to 2015, the in January and one in February. number of fire incidents record- Meanwhile, most fire incied in the province had gone up to dents that happened here were 33.8 percent. largely electrical-related, Secarro Based on the “Consolidated citing use of sub-standard wires, Summary Report of Fire Incident short-circuit, and overloading. in the Province of Surigao del Sur” Local firefighters had always obtained through SFO4 Rogelio reminded the general public of Secarro, BFP operations chief, the safety measures, agreeing, in adfire incidents were posted at 41 dition, that the hotter the days, in 2014; 62 in 2015, and seven the higher the risks of fire, it was March 16, 2016
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learned. With this year’s theme “Kaalaman at Pagtutulungan ng Sambayan, Kaligtasan sa Sunog ay Makakamtan,” the BFP provincial
office had intensified drive on “Fire Safety and Prevention,” to educate the public, Secarro confirmed.
March 26, 2016 is Barangay Assembly By: Jason Ryan R. Lam Day BUTUAN CITY -- Pursuant to Proclamation No. 260 dated September 30, 2011, the Barangay Assembly Day for the first semester of CY 2016 is set on March 26, 2016. This mandate is in accordance with Sections 397 and 398 of Republic Act 7160 otherwise known as the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991 which require the barangay assembly to meet twice a year, to hear and discuss the semestral report of the Sangguniang Barangay concerning its activities and finances as well as problems affecting the barangay. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) continues to establish mechanisms that help in strengthening the compliance of LGUs to such codal provisions. The conduct of regular monitoring as well as participation to barangay assemblies are one of these mechanisms. Per DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2016-11 dated January 27, 2016 and in consonance with Proclamation No. 260 the Synchronized Barangay Assembly Day for the First Semester of this year is scheduled on March 26, 2015 which bears the theme
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“Ipagpatuloy ang Nasimulan, Tungo sa Tuwid na Daan. Makilahok, Makisali sa Barangay Assembly!” Further, the said circular directed all DILG regional directors and ARMM regional governor to advocate the conduct of barangay assembly by displaying streamers in strategic locations within their office premises and other activities that would generate interest among the general public to attend the assembly as well as to submit reports thereafter. Likewise, it also enjoined all city and municipal mayors to ensure compliance and maximum
participation of all barangays in conducting barangay assemblies in their respective jurisdiction. Among the suggested activities for the assemblies are delivery of the State of Barangay Address (SOBA); presentation of the proposed priority projects to be funded under the Barangay Bottom-Up Budgeting (BBuB) funds; discussion on barangay compliance to DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2014-81 dated July 15, 2014 regarding the posting of Barangay Budget, Statement of Income and Expenditures and other Barangay Financial Transactions and Annual Procurement Plan; invitation of faith-based organizations
to attend and participate in the assembly to discuss/ explore possible collaborative undertakings; and other issues and concerns affecting the barangay. Further, the barangay officials are also encouraged to undertake other activities they deem appropriate to create public awareness on and generate participation in the Barangay Assembly, such as but not limited to medical or dental mission, tiangge, cultural presentations, and other similar activities.
FILEPHOTO https://dapasdn.files.wordpress.com
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