today’s news
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DOLE notes high compliance of establishments on women-related benefits BBL passage still best solution to end Mindanao armed conflict – TJRC report Police ready for Holy Week Northern Mindanao
Graduating city scholars commended Northern Mindanao
PWDs in Tagum get free cinema access Richi Gulle, Southern Mindanao
Sarangani ARBs complete farmer field school Catherine T. Apelacio,SOCCSKSARGEN COMELEC, PNP, AFP spearhead peace covenant signing in Dinagat Islands Grace C. Fabor, Caraga
DAR AgSur gives orientation on Climate Change Adaptation, Mitigation Josette Simbajon and Randy Dapar, Caraga
Academe lauds ZSPPO for launching unity walk, bike for peace
Cover Story
Making Tour in Dinagat Islands
Gideon C. Corgue, Western Mindanao
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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
Dr. Geoff Williams: A story of selflessness and great love By Alfonso T. Ruda 4
One Mindanao
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Cover Story
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nly few dedicated and committed doctors and surgeons would venture into an annual charitable and missionary work without any letup despite discouraging circumstances, depressing conditions and financial difficulties in different parts of the world. of the International Children’s Surgical Foundation, Incorporated (ICSFI) based in Idaho, USA through Mr. Lindon See Diet, then president of the Rotary Club of Dipolog during one of our interviews at Kapihan sa Dipolog in the summer of that year. See Diet brought along the soft-spokenand amiable Dr. Williams to the live interviewso we will get to know the charitable works he had done through the ICSFI which he heads up until this time.
Meeting the proficient doctor
Yearly mission
medical
outreach
In the succeeding years, In 2014, we came to know Dr. we always see him whenever Geoff William Williams, president he is in Dipolog City doing his
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medical and surgical missionary works to the less privileged children of our place suffering from cleft lip and palate deformities. Seldom do we get the privilege to be invited to an actual surgical operation of any kind due to the sensitivity and the delicate nature of the works when a person, or a child for that matter, gets under the knife to undergo a facial lift in the mouth. But this time around, after three consecutive years of interviewing him in our Kapihan sa Dipolog Thursday public affairs program, we finally got the personal invitation morning. to observe and document the The three of us, myself and cleft lip and palate operation. the Kapihan sa Dipolog host Seeing the good doctor at Edith Pagente-Tomong and her daughter Lady Aretha P. Tomong, work a licensed pediatric nurse who just We paid him a visit during one arrived from King Fahad Medical of his delicate surgical operation City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi involving a nine-month old baby Arabia donning hospital gowns boy named Dailan Alegarbes from entered the operating room. Barangay Motibot in Sindangan We immediately noticed town, Zamboanga del Norte who had a cleft lip operation on that a big figure garbed in green hospital gown crouched over a March 21, 2016
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baby who was so engrossed with his work that we felt if we talk or make any unnecessarynoise, wewill surely disturb him and affect the delicate operation. But we were wrong because he greeted us all, in fact, he was the one who gave the permission to his volunteer nurse for us to be there and observe the entire meticulous cleft lip operation at the Zamboanga del Norte Medical Hospital. After almost three hours, we then met the patient still crying and being lovingly cuddled by his mother while his father whispered words of endearment to their first child who was very lucky to have the golden opportunity to be operated by Dr. Williams.
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Grateful patients
parents,
happy
The happy couple, MrBon Rockwell Bijasa Alegarbe sand his wife, Gennie Espinosa Alegarbes almost ran out words of thanks in praising the dedication and commitment of the American doctor for bringing a new dimension in the life of their son. “We are so happy and thankful that he came to Dipolog to perform this operation.� LGU, Rotary Club support Indeed, these poor and innocent children were very lucky as beneficiaries of the ICSFI because they received free operation, free medicines and free transportation. They are extremely grateful for the medical and surgical missionary works of ICSFI, with free accommodation
extended by the provincial government of officials through Governor our Almighty God for Roberto Y. Uy and coordination bringing to our place a kind, efforts by the Rotary Club of sweet, generous, loving and Dipolog for many years now. dedicated surgeon who had given everything he had to save and Selfless service give back the dignity and pride of the innocent children who were So, how do we give thanks to all his patients? a world-renowned surgeon who has always performed earthly Maybe, we could show our miracles to our poor and precious deep appreciation as a community angels through his voluntary to the kind-hearted Dr. Geoff surgeries and medical missions William Williams by offering our in our country and anywhere else collective prayers so that he will in the world? be showered with more blessings and good health so he can Again, how do we give thanks continue his charitable works in to a kind and generous doctor any country in the world for the who has given his entire life for a poor and innocent children. worthy cause that brought back the smile and self-confidence of “And whatsoever ye do in every angel who was his patient word or deed, do all in the name for the past nine years in the of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks Philippines? to God and the Father by him,�
How do we measure the love
Colossians 3:17.
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Government remains committed to inclusive growth, says Palace official
MANILA - The government has shown its commitment to inclusive growth by focusing on the needs of provinces and local government units (LGUs), a Palace official said on Saturday. Undersecretary Manuel Luis Quezon III of the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office said President Aquino’s recent visits to four provinces in Luzon this week embodies the administration’s commitment to inclusive
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growth. “By focusing on the needs of our provinces and LGUs, the government ensures that progress reaches all,” said Quezon.
March 21, 2016
“President Aquino has
always stood firm in his belief that no Filipino—no matter where they live—should be left behind in our pursuit of progress. This week, beyond his commitments in Metro Manila, the President traveled to Pangasinan, Laguna, Batangas, and Pampanga to inaugurate and turn over projects as well as meet with local leaders and the community,” the Palace official added.
“Launched in 2013, the project involves setting up common production facilities with the goal of increasing MSME productivity and boosting their competitiveness. Currently, we have 1,681 SSF all over the country, shared among 16,192 MSMEs and 72,864 entrepreneurs. The DTI plans to launch 200 more SSF before the end of the Aquino administration. While in Pangasinan, the President also In Pangasinan, the President led the inauguration of a new Aquino attended the turnover building in Urdaneta I Central of the Department of Trade and School, constructed with the help Industry’s Shared Services of PAGCOR,” said Quezon. Facilities (SSF).
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On Wednesday, President Aquino went to Laguna to attend the 30th anniversary celebration of the Center for Agriculture and Rural Development Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARDMRI). In his speech, the President lauded the institution’s contributions, as it continues to benefit MSMEs through microfinance, microinsurance, and other business services. From Laguna, the President proceeded to Batangas to lead the switch-on ceremony for the Calatagan 63.3-Megawatt Solar Farm in Barangay Paraiso. “The following day, President Aquino met with the Pampanga Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC). During the briefing, officials discussed infrastructure and flood control projects in the area. From P9.41 billion between 2005 and 2010, the infrastructure budget for Pampanga has grown to P16.94 billion between 2011 and 2016. This has funded projects such as the Gapan-San Fernando-Olongapo Road (Phase 2), Lazatin Flyover, San Fernando 1st Green Road, and the Aquino Bypass Road,” Quezon said.
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“Also this week, the President attended the 7th General Assembly of the League of Provinces of the Philippines, where he spoke about how the landscape of local governance, and how it has changed under Daang Matuwid. Among the examples he cited are the present availability of funds for LGU projects. Afterward, the President attended a necrological service for former Senate President Jovito Salonga, whose services to the nation are well remembered by Filipinos,” Quezon added. “Just yesterday, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) announced that our poverty rate had dropped to 26.3% in the first semester of 2015 —the lowest since 2009. As President Aquino said, the goal has always been to leave the country in a better state than in 2010. Now, as we face another crossroads, we trust that our voters will choose a leader who will continue our upward trajectory,” Quezon said. (PND)
March 21, 2016
DOLE notes high compliance of establishments on women-related benefits
MANILA -- Empowering women and narrowing down the gender gap are still pressing issues in this time of global changes in the world of work, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said Friday. “There is, in fact, increasing demand for the presence of women in the labor force.” DOLE said it is on the right track in addressing these issues because compliance of establishments on womenrelated benefits stands high. “Providing women with equal potential are essential driving economic opportunities forces of economic and unleashing their growth,” DOLE Secretary
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Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz said. “We acknowledge the many benefits that can be derived when women are in the work force, such as greater equality and gender balance, increased household incomes, and enhanced financial stability of families.” Baldoz said government agencies, including DOLE, take their part seriously in the campaign to eliminate discrimination against women as provided for in Republic Act No. 9710, or the Magna Carta of Women. The law provides for recognition, protection, fulfilment, and promotion of the rights of Filipino women, especially those belonging to society’s marginalized sectors.
of the Labor Laws Compliance System (LLCS), its enforcement mechanism geared at promoting voluntary compliance with labor laws and regulations among establishments across industries and geographical locations. “The DOLE actively promotes the welfare of women in the work force by ensuring that their benefits, as mandated by law and through the LLCS, are properly provided them,” Baldoz said. Baldoz said when DOLE conduct assessments, establishments are compliance with women-related benefits. The benefits include maternity leave, leave for victims of violence against women and children (VAWC), and special leave for women with gynecological disorders.
The Philippine Statistics Authority meanwhile reports that two in five (40 percent) of wage and salary workers are women. “We also check their compliance with the Expanded “Of the approximately 8.3 Breastfeeding Promotion Act, million working women in the specifically on the provision of country, 78 percent work full lactation stations and lactation time,” Baldoz said. breaks for breastfeeding women,” she said. She said DOLE is going full steam ahead Since the start of in the implementation the LLCS, the DOLE
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has covered over 100,000 establishments employing 1,805,683 workers. Of this number, 635,408 (35.2 percent) are women. High compliance rates have been shown for women-related benefits: maternity leave (99 percent), VAWC leave (97.88 percent), special leave for women (97.94 percent), and lactation stations (97.69 percent). Baldoz said DOLE is deeply committed in
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ensuring that all workers, women and men, enjoy their rightful benefits. But as to women, she said, “As we intensify our LLCS activities, we will make sure that the welfare of our women workers is adequately protected. We will continue to perform our role in encouraging not only their participation in the workforce, but also in ensuring that they become empowered participants in the workplace.� (DOLE)
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BBL passage still best solution to end Mindanao armed conflict – TJRC report
MAKATI CITY -- The enactment into law of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) remains the top recommended action as a means to close the decades-old Bangsamoro armed struggle, according to a report released by the Swiss-led Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC). In a recently held public and institutional infrastructure launch, the TJRC report stated that pursuant to the Comprehensive the legislation of a Bangsamoro Agreement on the Bangsamoro law that provides for a political (CAB) could guarantee the non-
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recurrence of armed conflict.
the
Mindanao their region and their people, to proudly assert their identity, and to ensure a constructive “The TJRC recommendations engagement with their own cannot replace a durable multiethnic constituency.” peace agreement and its legal framework,” TJRC chairperson The TJRC also emphasized Mô Bleeker said. “Solving the that the implementation of Bangsamoro situation in a the CAB “is a unique and durable manner offers a unique extraordinary opportunity not opportunity for a modern State only for Bangsamoro, but also to manage the diversity inherent for the whole Filipino nation”. in any modern democracy in a constructive manner.” As stipulated in the CAB, the TJRC was mandated to “Similarly, the Bangsamoro undertake a study and to make aspire to a political framework, recommendations, based on which will enable them to practice consultations and expert’s good governance, to develop studies, with a view to promote March 21, 2016
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healing and reconciliation among the conflict-affected communities in the Bangsamoro. The said TJRC report was a product of consultations with more than 210 Moro, indigenous, and settler communities in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, involving some 3,000 community members and local officials.
Meanwhile, Moro Islamic Liberation Front peace panel Abhoud Syed Lingga also noted that there could be a challenge in implementing the recommendations of the TJRC because the BBL, which was a pre-requisite in the execution of the CAB, was not passed. “Although implementation of other provisions of the agreement, including that of the recommendations of the (TJRC) report, cannot replace the BBL. It will be useful in pursuing the peace process that the report’s recommendations will be carried out,” Lingga said.
On her remarks delivered at the Cotabato City launched, Presidential Advisor on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos-Deles, said that Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr. issued a memorandum of instruction to the OPAPP to put the recommendations in the TJRC report in motion. The report was first launched publicly in Cotabato City earlier According to Deles, the this week in an event that was memorandum included the attended by Secretary Deles, following instructions: Government of the Philippines (GPH) chief negotiator Professor (1) endorse the TJRC Report to Miriam Coronel-Ferrer and Moro the relevant agencies for the MILF chief negotiator Mohagher agencies’ review and assessment; Iqbal, together with more than (2) convene and coordinate with 200 individuals, organizations, the agencies to work towards the and representatives from adoption and implementation of local, regional, national, and the recommendations; international entities. (OPAPP) (3) identify and mobilize resources to support the programs that may be implemented.
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University honors environmental hero at commencement exercises By: Vanessa Gorra
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – For its 77th commencement exercises, Xavier University has chosen to bestow a Doctor in Humanities, honoris causa, on Rev Fr Edwin Gariguez, a Roman Catholic priest who champions the causes of the indigenous peoples and the environment.
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As honorary doctorate, Fr Gariguez will also deliver the keynote address at the University’s Academic Convocation on March 17. A winner of the Goldman Environmental Prize, the world’s largest award for grassroots environmental activists, Fr Gariguez is a prominent figure against indiscriminate large scale mining in the Philippines. He is the Executive Secretary of CBCP-NASSA, the social development, humanitarian and advocacy arm of the Catholic Church in the Philippines. He is also one of the convenors of Alyansa Tigil Mina, a countrywide coalition of organizations and individuals acting as a watchdog over violations in laws and policies related to the mining industry. In 2009, Fr Gariguez led an 11day hunger strike with members of Alliance Against Mining to protest the dubious issuance of an Environmental Compliance Certificate to a Norwaybased mining company and to demand the government to investigate the environmental and social violations of the mining project. Consequently, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources launched an investigation and revoked the mining firm’s permit, indefinitely putting a stop to the mine. “The honorary doctorate is being conferred upon you in recognition of your life-long apostolate for and with the Indigenous Peoples intrinsically linked with caring for creation, our common home,” wrote Rev Fr Bobby
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Yap SJ, president of Xavier University, in his letter to Fr Gariguez. “Your ministry is an inspiring response to Pope Francis’ challenge “to hear both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.” Further, “The vocation you have patiently and perseveringly pursued in the peripheries has truly been serving the faith that does justice and ecological stewardship. You are a true activist and scholar for the Indigenous Peoples and the Environment,” Fr Bobby’s letter said. About 1,800 graduates from the Graduate School, Law, Medicine, the undergraduate colleges of Arts and Sciences, Education, Business and Management, Agriculture, Engineering, Computer Studies, Nursing, and the Center for Integrated Technologies are expected to receive their diplomas during the three-day Commencement Exercises on March 17-19 at the University Gymnasium. Other honorees Besides Fr Gariguez, two other distinguished individuals will be given recognition. Damulog Mayor Romeo Tiongco will receive the Fr William F Masterson SJ Award for service to the community. Tiongco is instrumental in bringing peace and order to the municipality of Damulog, Bukidnon, which for decades suffered from intermittent guerilla fighting among the military, militia groups and rebels. He ran for mayor in 2007 outlining
his campaign on the platform of peace and a demilitarized municipality to solve poverty. When he won, one of the first things he did was to embark on a peace journey from the town proper to Sitio Agong, the site of the heaviest fighting. Tiongco ran again for mayor and won in 2010. He got re-elected for a third and final term in 2013. Between those years, he became a fellow of the Mindanao Bridging Leaders Program of the Asian Institute of Management, which helped him expand his program on peace and development to include justice. At the core of his agenda are the universal rights of children. Meanwhile, multi-awarded writer, actor, visual artist and poet Frank G Rivera will be this year’s recipient of the Fr Francisco R Demetrio SJ Award. Rivera, also known as the “makata sa cellphone” for his notable “textula” series or SMS poems, is being recognized by the University for his outstanding contributions to Philippine culture and arts. He founded the critically-
acclaimed Kambayoka Theater Ensemble of the Mindanao State University. He has also written several anthologies of dramatic scripts for stage, television, radio and film. He is a winner of three Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature, four National Book Awards, and a number of Aliw, Gawad, CCP and NCCA Awards, to name a few. Rivera’s trilogy of “Makata sa Cellphone: mga dalit, diona, tanaga, at iba pang tulang sari-sari’t mga bersong sala-salabid” books earned him a National Book Award citation in 2005. His poems and “textula,” which won the 2014 Timpalak sa Pagsulat ng TexTanaga and 2014 Tulaan sa Facebook-Diyona, are recited during political rallies, shared on social media, forwarded as text messages, and declaimed at school programs. The awarding ceremonies for Tiongco and Rivera will also be held during the Academic Convocation of the graduating Class of 2016.
Police ready for Holy Week CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY– Security preparations for the Holy Week in Northern Mindanao in full swing. Police Regional Office 10 complement of the Philippine National Spokesperson Superintendent Surki Police (PNP) is already laid out all over Sereñas revealed today that the full the region. March 21, 2016
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Police Regional Director Police Chief Superintendent Lyndel Desquitado, Sereñas said, has ordered the deployment of more police officers in terminals, airports, seaports, highways, malls, resorts, churches and other holiday convergence areas to beef up police presence and ensure the tranquil observance of lent. “Although the command has not monitored serious threat, the police regional command still continue to undertake preemptive measures against terrorist attack and other criminalities” Sereñas said. The assumption is always on denying these unscrupulous individuals the opportunity to disrupt the peace and order of our region” he added. The PNP continue to implement checkpoints, conduct law enforcement functions, encourage the participation of force multipliers and volunteers and intensify the use of Barangay Information Nets (BINs) to augment the local police in their respective areas of responsibilities.
Hence, PRO10 employs over 1,800 PNP personnel and force multipliers region-wide in its daily conduct of checkpoint, the regional spokesperson said. Sereñas said that PNP regional director also stressed that there will be Police Assistance Desk which will be stationed in strategic areas regionwide ready to extend services to the public. Passenger Assistance Centers will also be visible in terminals, airports and seaports which will be manned by the PNP Highway Patrol Group, Aviation Security Group and Maritime Group respectively. Police stations have also come up with an innovative crime prevention campaign strategy through social media such as Twitter and Facebook where they enjoined the public to be vigilant, safety and security conscious. Meanwhile, PCSupt Desquitado said the security awareness of community is vital to deter crimes. (PRO10)
Graduating city scholars commended CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The City Council commitee on education and the City College Scholarship Program (CCSP) of Cagayan de Oro congratulate the 150 city scholars who will graduate this month from 10 universities and colleges in the city.
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Councilor Adrian Barba, chair of the committee commended the four scholars who will graduate as Cum Laude in their respective courses. They are Mary Antonette Magallanes (Cum Laude, BS Devcom) and Jimar Reyes (Bachelor in Education) from Xavier University. Magallanes hails from Patag while Reyes is from Barangay Carmen. The two others who will graduate as Cum Laudes are Jayson Gayrama (Lourdes College) and Sara Valiente (Liceo de Cagayan University). Gaymara and Valiente are residents of Taglimao and Pagatpat, respectively. Gilda Takiang, secretariat of the CCSP, stressed that the list of graduates with honors might increase like in previous school years since other schools will still have their graduation after Holy Week. Out of the 150 graduating students, 35 completed their courses last October 2015, she added.
The 115 scholars who will graduate this month are from Mindanao University of Science and Technology(25 scholars); Xavier University (21); Liceo de Cagayan University (9); Cagayan de Oro College (Phinma)(20); Capitol University (22); Lourdes College (6); Bukidnon State College (2); Tagoloan Community College (5); and Southern Philippine College (3). The CCSP secretariat also said that the P1.2 million JanuaryFebruary monthly allowance of the scholars was already released. This week, the scholars are receiving their March allowance of P1,000 (for urban barangays) and P1,500 (rural barangays). A total of P648,500 will be released for the 568 scholars, she said. In a related development, Marissa Tagarda, city social welfare officer and officer-in-charge of Community Improvement Office and vice chair of the CSSP said that the budget for the CCSP for school year 2016-2017 will increase considering that almost all schools will increase their tuition and matriculation fees. Tagarda is informing the public that the CCSP is now receiving applications from first year college students who have not enrolled last school year.(ELB/CdeOSP)
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Davao City declared as peaceful and ready for further development DAVAO CITY-Authorities forged an agreement with the Davao City Government yesterday declaring Davao City and its suburbs as peaceful and ready for further development. City officials headed by Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and top officials from the Eastern Mindanao Command, 10th Infantry Division and the Police Regional Office XI attended the simple ceremony at the Grand Menseng Hotel amid the festivities of the Araw ng Dabaw. Colonel Ricardo Nepomuceno, commander of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade cited the basis for the declaration ranging from the reduction of the rebel strength, clearing of the barangays from the rebel influence to the partnership of the soldiers and the government in the delivery of basic services to the people. Lt. General Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command said the shared effort of all responsible stakeholders leads to
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the formal declaration of the city being insurgency free and ready for further developments. He lauded the city government for its continued support to the military. Major General Rafael Valencia welcomed this development and assured the continued presence of the soldiers as long as the residents of the city want them. “The signing of the PFRD declaration signals the desire of the people to strengthen peace and security throughout the city,� he said. Mayor Duterte underscored the contributions of the soldiers and the police to the continuing progress of the city under his administration. Chief Superintendent Federico Dulay Jr. of the PRO 11 and
Senior Superintendent Vicente pine National Police in the occaDanao of the Davao City Police sion. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Office, represented the Philip- Dalumpines)
PWDs in Tagum get free cinema access
TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte - Every differently-abled residents of Tagumenyos will finally have free movie access in the city’s movie houses on the occasion of the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the City Government of Tagum and Gaisano Mall Cinemas last March 3, 2016 at Gaisano Mall, Tagum City. The MOA Signing was hinged on the enactment by the 6th City Council of City Ordinance No. 709, series of 2015 which provides that the scope and coverage of the granting of free movie access to Persons with Disability (PWD) shall be enforceable in all movie theaters in the territorial jurisdiction of the City of Tagum. Under the ordinance, a Person with Disability is defined as suffering from restriction or different abilities, as a result of a mental, physical or sensory impairment to perform an activity in a manner or within the range considered normal for a human being, and states that disability shall mean (1) a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more psychological, physiological or anatomical function of an individual or activities
of such individual; (2) a record of such an impairment; or (3) being regarded as having such an impairment. It is also provided further that the free movie access of the PWDs, as a privilege, shall not be transferrable and may only be availed of on Thursdays by beneficiaries who are carrying Identification Cards issued by the City Social Welfare Development Office. The privilege granted to PWDs under the social legislation shall be deemed as part of the Movie Theater’s Corporate Social Responsibility and may be used as an allowable discount/ deduction in the computation of Amusement Tax payable to the City Government of Tagum. (Richi Gulle/ CIO-Tagum)
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DTI opens Negosyo Center in Tacurong City By: Danilo E.Doguiles
TACURONG CITY, Sultan Kudarat, Mar. 21 -- SOCCSKSARGEN Region’s sixth Negosyo Center is now open to serve small-scale entrepreneurs. The city government here in partnership with the the Sultan Kudarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (SKCCIFI), launched on March
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9, the Negosyo Center inside the City Hall compound. Regional Director Ibrahim Guaimadel of the Department of Trade and Industry told Philip
pine Information Agency 12, the Negosyo Center is a facility that assists micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to be at par with established businesses. “Negosyo Centers help neophyte entrepreneurs establish and manage their businesses. The center also links these MSMEs with institutions like the Department of Social Welfare and Development and Lank Bank of the Philippines for financial assistance,” Guiamadel said. These facilities also provide business advisorym trainings and seminars and other available technical assistance. He emphasized that the Negosyo Centers “do not lend capital to MSMEs.” Academics and students may
also use the centers’ resources for conduct of researches on businesses. SOCCSKSARGEN Region, according to Guiamadel, has six Negosyo Centers already. These are located in General Santos City, Koronadal City, Kidapawan City, Tacurong City, and Alabel, Sarangani. Also set for establishment are Negosyo Centers in the following locations: Midsayap and Kabacan in North Cotabato, Surallah in South Cotabato and Lebak and Kalamansig in Sultan Kudarat. DTI 12 has alloted Php 23 million for the establishment of additional Negosyo Centers, he said. (DEDoguiles-PIA12 with report from RABSumanghid DevCom Intern)
Sarangani ARBs complete farmer field school By: Catherine T. Apelacio
GENERAL SANTOS CITY, March 21--At least 120 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in the municipalities of Maasim and Malungon, Sarangani underwent a season-long Farmer Field School (FFS). FFS, one of the support services strategies of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), trains farmers on various farm production methods.
The farmers were taught on IPM - Vegetable Production and IPM - Corn Production. Both courses provided substantial lecture-discussion and practicum One Mindanao 27 March 21, 2016
packed with subsidized inputs. ers but also hone their skills toSpecifically, it is geared to help ward “better farm productivity farmers understand the relation- and profitability” increasing inship of crop with soil nutrients come. and its interaction with pest and “With their knowledge, the natural enemies, DAR-Sarangani farmers would be able to manage noted. pest and disease in their farms After the training, the farmers without the usual application of received Certificates of Course expensive chemicals, thus reducCompletion on Integrated Pest ing farm inputs and increasing Management (IPM). profitability,” Gamad said. Among the successful ARBs At a commencement program, that completed the course were Camilo Montefalcon, Provincial members of Agrarian Reform Or- Integrated Pest Management coganizations (ARBOs) of the muordinator encouraged the gradunicipality of Maasim, namely the ates to use their knowledge in Kablacan Upland Farmers Associ- order to change lives. ation (KUFA) of Sitio Lebe, KablaHe added that by applying can and Blat Farmers Association their knowledge and skills, they (BFA) of Sitio Blat, Amsipit; and are protecting their lives, their Datal Bila People’s Organization produce and their environment. (DABIPO) of the municipality of Meanwhile, Sara Dianon NongMalungon. god, a recent FFS graduate and “The FFS as a convergence ap- awarded “Best in Moving Exam” proach of the DAR and the Deshared her experience saying partment of Agriculture has been that before FFS was conducted in an effective vehicle for technoltheir barangay, they encountered ogy promotion and extension. several cropping failure due to The season long course intends lack of knowledge on farming. to enable the farmers to become But with the systematic techIPM advocates in their own arniques and procedures on farmeas,” said Provincial Agrarian Re- ing taught in FFS, they know betform Program Officer I Maristela ter now how to boost their crops’ Olegario. productivity and increase their John Gamad, chief, Program income. (AR Torino, DAR SaranBeneficiaries Development Divigani/CT Apelacio, PIA-12 General sion of DAR, expressed confiSantos City) dence that the training will not only enhance knowledge of farmMarch 21, 2016 One Mindanao 28
OWWA Caraga holds Zika virus awareness forum
By: Jean Pearl I. Millones
BUTUAN CITY-- In observance to the nation’s annual celebration of the Women’s Month, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga spearheaded the Zika awareness forum to the workers undergoing the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) on March 15, 2016 at the OWWA Training Hall here.
March 21, 2016
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The recently held forum was aimed at promoting a better understanding about the currently spreading mosquito-borne virus among the ready-to-leave Household Service Workers (HSW) especially that the virus is known to circulate in parts of Africa, America and Asia. Zika Virus is transmitted by the same type of mosquito that carries the dengue and chikungunya virus, the Aedes Aegypti, mainly in tropical regions. The virus has recently been strongly correlated with microcephaly, a neurological disorder that results in babies being born with abnormally small heads and possibly undeveloped cerebral capabilities linked to women who were infected with Zika during their pregnancies. Purposely designed to increase awareness in the health issue especially concerning women, said forum highlighted the symptoms, diagnosis its effects and its treatment. Although it is advised to avoid traveling in areas with an active infestation, speaker Richard B. Maniago, Senior Health Program Officer of the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga, recommended to the workers to strictly adhere to mosquito pro-
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tection measures since there is yet no treatment or vaccine available. Officers and Staff of OWWA Regional office also joined in the forum since there have already been recorded cases of the virus being transmitted in the country. The activity also aimed to highlight the contribution of women to the issues of today. It is a gesture of the agency to involve women in public advocacy especially those relating to health and developmental concerns. This is one of the lined-up activities of OWWA Caraga in celebration of women’s month. This year’s theme is “Kapakanan ni Juana, Iapel sa Adyenda.” The agency has earlier joined in the fun walk during kick-off ceremony organized by the Regional Development Council- Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (RDC-GADCC).
COMELEC, PNP, AFP spearhead peace covenant signing in Dinagat Islands By: Grace C. Fabor
SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands- Aiming to ensure that the right of the people to suffrage is protected, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spearheaded the Peace Covenant Signing for Secure and Fair Election (SAFE) 2016 held recently at the Provincial Guest Center, Capitol Compound, Brgy. Cuarinta, San Jose, this province. Acting Provincial Election supervisor Atty. Alvin Prandy Canta led the pledge of personal commitment towards a secure and fair election before the signing proper. Atty. Canta further extended his gratitude for the cooperation and willingness of political leaders in heeding to their call for a peaceful, secure and fair elec-
tion. The local candidates present solemnly pledged to work towards the realization of a peaceful, SAFE 2016 and that they will abide the constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and all laws enacted for the purpose of ensuring free, orderly, honest, peaceful and credible conduct of elections.
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here and from other provinces to prevent issues like the presence of subversive groups such as private armed groups, orga nized crime groups, proliferation of loose firearms, licenses, political rivalries, and violent incidents during the election period. Meanwhile, Dinagat Islands Provincial Police Office (DIPPO) provincial director PSSupt. Cupid Cebedo Calica said that they are doing their best to ensure security and public safety by intensifying their law enforcement acSuch initiative is upon assessing tivities. the data from previous elections
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DAR AgSur gives orientation on Climate Change Adaptation, Mitigation By: Josette Simbajon and Randy Dapar
PATIN-AY, Agusan del Sur – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) had implemented several orientations to different Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) as a support to the global awareness to climate change. Just recently, an orientation tries like the Philippines which is on climate change was conduct- one of the global “hotspots” vuled at Kalahi Building, Bayugan nerable to climate change impact 2, San Francisco, this province given its geographic location and to almost 50 Filipinas Palm Oil archipelagic character. Plantation Inc. Agrarian Reform Accordingly, even if greenBeneficiaries Multi-Purpose Co- house gas emissions are reduced operative (FPPI ARB MPC) and significantly in the coming years, some non-ARBs but workers in climate change impacts such the area. as gradual temporal and spatial Adaptation to climate change shifts in resources, as well as is a rapidly growing challenge, drought, floods, severe weathparticularly for developing coun- er events and sea level rise are March 21, 2016
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likely to result in food shortages, diseases, infrastructure damage, and the degradation of natural resources. The less fortunate persons will be affected and development choices today will influence the adaptive capacity of people and the government as well in the future. The department in its little way continuously give orientations to ensure that the farmers will be able to adapt and take action and plans against adverse climate impacts which might hinder sustainable development in the countryside.
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President Aquino to lead inauguration of Basilan Circumferential Road By Rene V. Carbayas
BASILAN (PIA) – - President Benigno S. Aquino III is set to
lead
the
Circumferential
38
inauguration Road
One Mindanao
of
(BCR)
March 21, 2016
the
133-kilometer
on
Monday,
Basilan
March
21.
The road project which was finally completed after two decades was fast tracked during the administration of President Aquino. BCR is a much-needed project in Basilan yet has been long-delayed. It took 20 years and cost a number of lives to complete the circumferential road in the province of Basilan, one among the six component provinces of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The BCR is seen to boost economic development of the province since it connects the
cities of Isabela and Lamitan to majority of the inland municipalities of Basilan. Thus, it will provide easy access and transport of major products like copra and rubber from other municipalities such as Tipo-Tipo, Sumisip, Maluso and Lantawan. Furthermore, it can be observed that the land travel time from one municipality to Isabela city has been reduced by at least two hours. The BCR is a joint project of ARMM Regional Governor Mujiv Hataman and the Office
March 21, 2016
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of the President implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). This is perhaps the greatest legacy Hataman and President Aquino could leave to the people of Basilan before their term ends this year. The completion of the circumferential road has received widespread approval from the Basilenos who will be greatly benefited by this effort. Since 2013, a total of P9.3 billion worth of infrastructure funds was allocated for Basilan. The circumferential road is just one among the many
accomplished projects of Gov. Hataman in the ARMM. DPWH allotted P5.7 billion for infrastructure development in the ARMM region in 2015. In retrospect, the construction of the BCR started during the Ramos administration, but it had encountered delays due to unstable peace and order condition wrought by lawless elements in the area. In November 2, 2014, six Philippine army soldiers were killed in an ambush while they were conducting routine patrol to secure the construction workers in Libug Village, Sumisip town.
Academe lauds ZSPPO for launching unity walk, bike for peace By Gideon C. Corgue
PAGADIAN
CITY
(PIA)
–
Students
from
different
colleges lauded the Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office bike 40
(ZSPPO) for
peace
One Mindanao
for
spearheading
held
recently
March 21, 2016
the at
unity
wharf
walk area
and here.
Jovezel
criminology
Cañete, student
a of
senior mahitabo sa atong nasud pinaagi Western pagpili sa mosunod nga maayo ug
Mindanao State University- External edukado nga lider sa umaabot nga Studies Unit (WMSU-ESU) said the piniliay sa Mayo 9 aron pagsulbad activity has raised public awareness sa mga problema ug pagpalambo on the conduct of Secure and Fair sa
nasud,”
Elections (SAFE) on May 9, 2016.
(We want to be part of the
Cañete
said
they
Canete
explained.
actively changes that will happen in our country
participated in the activity because by choosing good and well-educated it is their right as voters to help leaders in the upcoming May 9 elections, the government inform the people who will address our problems and regarding the upcoming elections. steer this country to development.)
“Gusto namo nga mahimo kami
Erwin Blanco of Pagadian College
nga kabahin sa mga kabag-ohan nga of Criminology said their participation March 21, 2016
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to the unity walk and signing the local candidates themselves. of the ‘integrity pledge’ of the
“We
Commission on Elections (Comelec) local
are
happy
candidates
that
signed
the the
is a demonstration of their support peace covenant prepared by the for a safe and fair elections. Comelec, DILG, and PNP to avoid
“We, the criminology students threats
and
violent
incidents
have signed the ‘integrity pledge’ to happen that will affect the to
show
our
support
in
the electoral process,” Clemen said.
conduct of honest, orderly and
The signing of the peace
peaceful elections,” Blanco said. covenant was held at the function hall
Meanwhile, Wowee Clemen of of ZAMSURECO-1 and witnessed by
Yllana Bay View College said they are COMELEC officials, DILG, Interfaith happy that it was not only them who Forum for Solidarity and Peace, signed the ‘integrity pledge’ but also civic and religious organizations. March 21, 2016 One Mindanao 42
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