EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor …….. EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI Managing Editor …….. ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern and Northeastern Mindanao Associate Editors …… NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX
OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII
NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Officer-in-charge, PIA Caraga Region
ELAINE O. RATUNIL Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X
Regional Desk Editors
Jocelyn P. Alvarez, PIA Region IX Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region
Copy Editor ............... Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region Layout Artists ……… Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Zener R. Dumaguing, PIA Region X Senior Layout Artists : Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region Editorial Adviser :
SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMA Presidential Communications Operations Office
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Today’s issue...
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Friday, November 23, 2012
President Aquino extols non-government organizations as partners of government in nation building and development 342 Tacurongnons enroll in free tech-voc trainings of LGU Allan Freno, Central Mindanao
DA 12 staff undergo training on cost structure analysis and value chain Shahana Joy Duerme, Central Mindanao
MinDA chair to keynote 1st Surigao Norte Bizcon LGU-Surigao del Norte, Caraga Region
Butuan to host 67th PICPA Annual National Convention Jennifer P. Gaitano, Caraga Region
BALS to hold A & E test next month Alfonso T. Ruda , Western Mindanao
TESDA-Lanao del Sur allots P11.70 M for training programs under stimulus package Apipa P. Bagumbaran, ARMM
Establishments use internet to obtain information from gov’t agencies, says NSO Apipa P. Bagumbaran, Northern Mindanao
8 persons hurt in Cagayan de Oro explosion PSupt. Ronnie Francis M. Cariaga, Northern Mindanao
CFARBEMPCO: from banana farm workers to entreps Lovely Carillo, Southern Mindanao
Cover Story
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Opol earns the Crown page 4
Vol. 2 No. 70
Enn Meriell Largo Northern Mindanao
Opol earns the Crown by Enn Meriell Largo
T
he town of Opol in Misamis Oriental bagged another award for carrying out a program to dramatically reduce cases of malnutrition in the municipality. The efforts that have been put through the years for the local nutrition program have finally paid off as Opol earned the Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition (Crown) Award. Of 1,714 provinces, cities and municipalities, Opol emerged as among the top 22 local governments—and the only one in Misamis Oriental—to be awarded in line with the campaign
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against
malnutrition. Opol Mayor Dexter Yasay received the 1st Year CROWN Maintenance Award on behalf of the town government. He received the plaque of recognition together with the municipal health officer and municipal nutrition officer and municipal nutrition action officer during the 2012 National Nutrition Awarding Ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center. With this award, Opol joined the list of only 130 local government units, to date, that have been conferred with the CROWN which is given to a local government unit (LGU) that has been adjudged by the interagency Friday, November 23, 2012
regional nutrition evaluation team as outstanding in their region in the implementation of its nutrition action plan for three consecutive years. The increasing investments for the program and the different initiatives of the town have sustained a good nutrition picture in the last three years. Opol was cited for effectively implementing its municipal nutrition program as seen in the continuous decline in the malnutrition rate of the town in the last three years. The rate registered at 3.69 percent in 2009 to 2.72 percent in 2010 and further to 2.12 percent last year. The town also took pride of Merlinde Hubalan of barangay Taboc
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who emerged as one of the national finalists, from among the 38,000 BNSs in the country, of the 2011 Search for National Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Scholar Award. Hubalan received a certificate of recognition and a notebook computer. Yasay said backyard and zonal food production, micronutrient supplementation, food fortification, feeding and other initiatives contributed to the reduced prevalence of undernutrition among preschool children in the town. He said reducing the cases of malnutrition among children is among the strategies of the town government in the fight against poverty.
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ACROSS THE NATION
Aquino urges non-government organizations to help in choosing next set of leaders in coming polls
C
iting their invaluable role as partners of government in nation building and development, President Benigno S. Aquino III called on the non-government organizations, particularly those belonging to the Caucus of Development NGO (CODE-NGO) Networks to help in guiding Filipinos choose the next batch of leaders in next year’s mid-term elections.
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Friday, November 23, 2012
The President, in his speech keynoting the 20th year anniversary and 5th Congress of CODE-NGO held at the Skydome of SM North Edsa in Quezon City on Thursday, said that these civil society organizations can help Filipinos make an informed choice of whom to vote for as they are now familiar with his governing style as compared to past administrations. “Sa Mayo, muli tayong haharap sa sangandaan na huhubog sa ating kinabukasan at kasaysayan. Bukod sa pagbabantay ng mga balota, maging gabay sana tayo ng mamamayan sa pagpili ng mga itatalagang pinuno,” the President said. “Sa matagal na panahon, nasadlak tayo sa pag-iisip na pare-pareho lang ang lahat ng gustong maglingkod sa gobyerno. Pero nakita ninyo ang pagkakaiba ng estilo ng aming pamumuno, sa dinatnan nating status quo. Hahayaan ba nating pamunuan tayong muli ng mga kawatan at nanlalamang? Huwag naman po sana,” he stressed.
Friday, November 23, 2012
He said his administration’s ability to implement government reforms in just two years in office was made possible through the efforts and support of the people who believe in treading the straight path and are concerned with proper governance. “Sa susunod na mga taon, tiyak na mas mapipintog pang bunga ang ating mapipitas kung iisa pa rin ang direksyong ating tinatahak. Sa tulong ng ating NGOs, kompiyansa akong patuloy tayong makakapagpunla ng magandang bukas para sa Pilipinas at sa Pilipino,” the President said. PND (rck)
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President Aquino extols non-government organizations as partners of government in nation building and development
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III lauded the non-government organizations as partners of government in nation building and development during rites commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Caucus of Development Non-Governmental Organization (CODE-NGO) Networks held at the Skydome of SM North Edsa in Quezon City on Thursday.
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In his speech keynoting the event, the President called the civil society organization-members of CODE-NGO as “pillars of good governance” who act as “bridges” connecting the people and government through their active participation in his administration’s reform program. He said that NGOs serve as the eyes and ears of government in getting the pulse of the nation and how to effectively address its needs and wants. “Isa po sa mahalagang bunga ng mapayapang rebolusyon sa EDSA ang pag-usbong ng ating Non-Government Organizations. Sa pagbagsak ng diktadurya, bumangon ang kalayaan sa pamamahayag at lumawak ang pakikibahagi ng mamamayan sa mga isyung panlipunan. Dito tumingkad ang diwa ng sama-samang pagkilos upang maisakatuparan ang mabubuting adhikain para sa bayan,” the President said. “Sa ating administrasyon, isa kayong matibay na haligi ng mabuting pamamahala. Mga mata kayong nagbabantay laban sa katiwalian; mga taingang nakikinig sa suliranin ng taumbayan; at mga tinig na inihahayag ang saloobin ng mga naisasantabi sa lipunan,” he added. This year’s celebration coincides with the holding of CODE-NGO’s 5th Congress themed “Breaking Barriers in Civil Society’s Constructive Friday, November 23, 2012
Engagement for Development.” It is considered the largest gathering of civil society leaders in the country which includes six national networks and six regional networks, representing more than 1,600 development NGOs, peoples’ organizations and organizations nationwide and serves as the culmination of CODE-NGO’s 20 years of influencing public policy and contributing to increasing the effectiveness of civil society’s social development work in the country. CODE-NGO holds its Congress every 5 years, to evaluate its work for the past years and set its directions for the future. This year’s congress will approve the coalition’s Strategic Plan for the next five years. Joining the President were Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Soliman, CODENGO chair Andrea Patricia Sarenas and Peace Process Secretary Teresita Deles. PND (rck)
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$85M Australian education grant to solidify peace in Mindanao
T
he benefits of the peace agreement between the government and the Moro International Liberation Front have started to materialize with the Australian grant of Aus$85 million aimed at solidifying the gains of peace through investments in education. Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro said the Basic Education Assistance for Muslim Mindanao (BEAM) bankrolled by Australia is a giant leap towards a steady and continuous improvement in the quality of basic education in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). 10 ONE MINDANAO
“The success of this endeavor will mean much not only to the children of ARMM but to all Filipinos. We have started a spark, it is a spark that should reach every community, every household, every child in Muslim Mindanao. This spark will become a real beam of hope to Muslims and to all Filipinos� said Friday, November 23, 2012
Luistro in a statement. In line with President Aquino’s marching orders, BEAM resources will be utilized to boost programs in kindergarten education and upgrade the reading program for young learners. The grant that is the single largest donation given to a region, will also fund further improvement in the Madaris education, strengthen technical vocational programs for out-of-school youths, build more classrooms and open more schools in the ARMM. “This project will benefit the last, the lost and the least in the most isolated barangays in the ARMM,” Luistro added. BEAM will cover five provinces and two cities. Specifically, the program targets 95% of ARMM public schools, benefiting 2,347 public elementary and secondary schools, 50 private madaris, 2,382 Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) recipient barangays, 300 barangays without public elementary schools, and 20,000 out-of-school youths (OSYs). “As we launch the BEAM program, let us not forget to whom this program is intended. Ensuring school children are able to access education services suited to their circumstances is the heart of education reform in ARMM. The future is not tomorrow, the future is already here inside the classroom,”DepEd ARMM Secretary Jamar Kulayan said: For his part, Australian Agency Friday, November 23, 2012
for International Development (AusAID) Assistant Director General Rod Brazier explained that BEAM is built on partnerships which is central to the program’s success and believes that education is key to enduring prosperity. “Our aim is to provide a capable education system that contributes to peace and stability for a brighter future for the children of Mindanao. As a good neighbor, we want to help and you can count on us to do so for as long as it takes,” he added. Meanwhile, ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman stressed that if the DepEd ARMM problems are addressed, half of ARMM problems are solved. “We want to say to our donor and government partners that you can bank on our commitment and action. Yes we can, yes we will. This is our commitment,”Hataman said. BEAM was launched in Cotabato City last November 20. The event was attended by representatives from AUSAid and partners from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), BRAC (Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee) and German Technical Cooperation (GTZ). As a gesture of support to the program and the ARMM government, the DepEd came in full force with all top officials present including Regional Directors. The launching was followed by a Management Committee meeting where efforts to strengthen peace education was discussed. (DepEd) ONE MINDANAO 11
Region 12 records 82% wage order compliance By Dani Doguiles KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Eight in every ten enterprises in Soccsksargen Region have complied with Wage Order No. RB XII-17, labor and employment officials here reported.
“As of October 2012, on the establishments Region 12 has at least per report from DOLE- they have covered in 82 percent compliance 12’s inspectorate team the routine inspection, rate of the wage order, “Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTPB) 12 secretary Jesse dela Cruz said. Wage Order No. 17 became effective on April 18, this year and set P246 to P270 minimum wages -depending on the type of industry -- for laborers in the private sector. DOLE 12 regional director Chona Mantilla added, “ the compliance rate in the region is much higher 12 ONE MINDANAO
Friday, November 23, 2012
that our initial target of 74 percent.” She attributed this positive response from companies and business establishments to the prevailing industrial peace in the area, active involvement of the tripartite sectors in the preparation of the order, and peaceful negotiations between management and laborers. Mantilla confirmed several enterprises were found remiss in the implementation of the order but these violations were “ immediately addressed through the Labor Standards Enforcement Program where workers filed complaints.” “These complaints were acted upon through the singleentry approach (SENA) where both the management and laborers were in a conference to resolve their issues.” SENA is a a mediationconciliation initiative of DOLE where requests Friday, November 23, 2012
for interventions, mostly coming from work forces, are discussed and acted upon within 30 days, primarily to prevent going into expensive and time-consuming legal processes. “Many cases that were addressed through SENA ended in compromise agreements resulting in the implementation of the wage order,” Mantilla said. “In some, wage adjustment was implemented in staggered basis, others requested for deferment of implementation on condition that they will fully comply with the order,” she added. However, she said, “we are aware of the fact that there are companies that continue to violate the wage order but we deal with them by sending notice for compliance.” Continued refusal to pay the correct wages, she warned, could cost their companies more because they could
be ordered to pay double the mandated amount. This year, Mantilla said, they have already ordered restitution amounting to P400,000 or cumulative total of at least P4 million emanating from labor standards violations, most of which are violations of the wage order. Meanwhile, dela Cruz told members of the local media that several companies across Soccsksargen Region have opted for facility evaluation. Facility evaluation he said, is one of the new programs of RTWPB where establishments are evaluated for other services they provide their workers such as food and lodging that may be considered part of the wages of their workers. “Personnel from RTWPB inspect these companies to determine their means as well as the actual cost of these provisions that may be deducted from the monetary wage,” he explained. “For example, if the ONE MINDANAO 13
inspection team have assessed the food and lodging provided by the company to cost P10 each, workers who are supposed to receive P270 per day may only be paid P250 in actual money since P20 is being provided in kind,� he added. Dela Cruz, however, emphasized, a company could only be allowed this scheme after it has undergone thorough inspection and evaluation by a
team and approved by the regional director as well as publication of the approved request. On December 1, the second and final tranche of cost of living allowance mandated by Wage Order No. 17 for private sector workers in Soccsksargen Region will be effective. Thus, minimum wages in Soccsksargen Region will stand at P246 for the retail enterprises with 10 or less employees, P250 in
retail enterprises with more than 10 workers, P249 in non-plantation agriculture sector, P252 in plantation agriculture enterprises and P270 in nonagriculture sector. Soccsksargen includes the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani as well as the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan, and Cotabato.
342 Tacurongnons enroll in free tech-voc trainings of LGU
By Allan Freno KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Three hundred forty-two individuals, all desiring to acquire skills to improve their employability, enrolled in short-term technical-vocational (tech-voc) courses conducted by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tacurong in partnership with Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Department of Science and Technology (DOST). Each participant enrolled in any of the following eight Practical Skills & Development Trainings: Dressmaking, Massage Therapy NC II, Hair Science & Beauty Culture, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC II, Electrical Installation & Maintenance NC II, 14 ONE MINDANAO
Friday, November 23, 2012
Hollow Blocks-Making & Tiles-Setting, Souvenir Items -Making, and Packaging & Labeling cum Good Manufacturing Practices. Electrical Installation & Maintenance recorded the highest number of enrollees at 66 followed by Hair Science & Beauty Culture with 62. SMAW has 54 enrollees while Massage Therapy has 53. Community Training and Employment Coordinator Josephine Ubaldo said that they had set limited quotas for each course but there was an influx of walk-in enrollees during the launching program on November 20, 2012 at the Tacurong Pilot elementary School Gym. “We did not expect the huge turnout of trainees because we were supposed to accept a maximum of 30 enrollees per course”, Ubaldo said. “We stretched our quotas but not to the extent that we would be sacrificing the quality of the training”. During the launching program, Mayor Montilla was happy to note the increase in the number Friday, November 23, 2012
of enrollees compared to the last skills training the LGU conducted last summer in which the number of trainees did not reach the 150 mark. “Based on the big number of enrollees this time, we can really see the significance of the skills training program for the unemployed adults and the out of school youth” Mayor Montilla said. “We also decided to add more courses so that our constituents can have a wide array of choices. “Last summer, we only offered four courses; we doubled the number this time,” the ebullient mayor added. The mayor also shared to the participants the story of Aileen Apostol, one of the beneficiaries of the massage therapy training last year, who is already earning as much as P1, 000.00 a day. Edna is now employed by LGU-financed Massage Clinic and also doing home massage services. “Aileen is now enjoying the comfort of life because of the skill she got from our Massage Therapy Training. I want
more Aileens to come out from your batch,” Mayor Montilla said. City Councilors Rodrigo Jamorabon, Psyche Sucaldito and Benjamin Fajardo also delivered their messages of support to the skills training program of the city. Jamorabon, in his message to the enrollees, said that “the city government is not spending money in you but investing in your future instead. We know that once you are employed or start your own business out of the skills you will get from the trainings, you will bring comfortable life to your families”. DOST Provincial Director Szalina Mercado, who will also serve as trainer in the Packaging & Labeling Course, said that “Tacurong is very lucky to have a developmentoriented mayor who is truthfully looking after the welfare of her constituents”. TESDA Provincial Director Reynaldo Bernal also commended the efforts of the LGU in “aggressively pushing for the conduct of various skills training program in ONE MINDANAO 15
Tacurong”. He gave his of National Certificates commitment to assist or NC. “We laud the LGU’s the graduates through facilitating the granting initiative of bringing these tech-voc courses
especially for those who do not have access to established training centers”, Bernal said.
DA 12 staff undergo training on cost structure analysis and value chain By Shahana Joy Duerme KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Some employees from the Department of Agriculture (DA) 12 underwent cost structure analysis and value chain introduction course held recently at Don Bosco Foundation for Sustainable Development Training Center in Batasan, Makilala, North Cotabato.
The training focused on determining value of agricultural products from the production process to marketing. Robero Palo of the Associates Interdevelopment C o n s u l t i n g Incorporated explained that topics discussed in the training are important for the department’s employees to learn since they are the immediate actors in production of agricultural commodities. “Through value chain, we can determine the 16 ONE MINDANAO
potential of a certain product in the market. Also, we can be guided on the imposition of the right price,” Palo said. Meanwhile, DA 12 Regional Executive Director Amalia J. Datukan emphasized that by the training, employees can give quality services to the department thereby helping the farmers in Soccsksargen to compete their agricultural products with other products in the country. The activity was participated by representatives from Agri Pinoy Rice,
Corn, Livestock and High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), Extension, Support, Education and Training Services (ESETS) and Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP). Also, staff from the Regional Agriculture Fisheries and Information Division (RAFID) and Agribusiness Marketing and Assistance Division (AMAD) as well as the Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer (APCO) in every province of the region took part in the event. Friday, November 23, 2012
PDRRMC launches YOUNG-ADNERT by Danilo S. Makiling
BUTUAN CITY -- The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
Council spearheaded the launching of Youth Operative Urgency Nurturing Goodwill-Agusan del Norte Emergency Response Team (YOUNG-ADNERT) at Provincial Training Center, this City.
Ms. Erma Suyo, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer said the launching of YOUNG-ADNERT aims to engage the youth in Disaster Risk Reduction and Environment
www.piacaraga.blogspot.com
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Sustainability. “The Agusan del Norte PDRRMC believes in the importance of engaging the children and youth in Environment Sustainability, Disaster Risk Reduction
http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-CaragaUpdates/165374590187484
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and Management decision making processes and helps young people assume leadership roles within their communities” Suyo said. This also in compliance to Republic Act 10121 an act recognizing the importance of the youth in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, she added. The PDRRMC recognizes the role of the youth as follows: Instill good environmental ethics within one self/ home; disseminate & bring about multiplier effect; Work with the Community especially the vulnerable groups: the poor, children, women and elderly; Work with the regulatory agencies (environmental agency, Local
DRRMCouncils);Integrateenvironmental component/ element in their projects. PDRRMC also recognizes the active involvement of the youth in Risk management and disaster prevention, Community-based disaster management planning, Restoration projects, Cleanup and clean up campaigns, Drills and Simulations (earthquake, fire, landslide drills, etc.). Some 172 youth from the Municipality of Carmen, Nasipit, buenavista, Remedios T. Romualdez, Cabadbaran City, Magallanes, Tubay, Santiago, Jabongga, Kitcharao, and Las Nieves participated the launching of YOUNG-ADNERT.
MinDA chair to keynote 1st Surigao Norte Bizcon by LGU-Surigao del Norte
SURIGAO DEL NORTE -- The 1st Surigao del Norte Business Conference
will be held on November 22-23, 2012 at the Provincial Convention Center, Surigao City with Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Sec. Lualhati Antonino as keynote speaker. The theme of conference is, “Responsive Governance, Green Enterprises and Productive People: Onwards to a Bagong Surigao.” 18 ONE MINDANAO
Friday, November 23, 2012
The provincial government of Surigao del Norte and the Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry enjoined workers and officials of local governments, national agencies, provincial departments and business establishments to join the two-day event. Provincial Economic Enterprise Development and Management Office chief Graciela Mante said the conference, which includes an exhibit and trade fair, aims to harness efforts of public and private sectors
in encouraging a vibrant business atmosphere in the province and accessing new economic opportunities for a more sustainable and inclusive development. Registration for the event is at P1,500.00 which covers the meals and snacks, conference materials, and souvenir photo of the participants. Those interested to join the conference may call Lala at 82673814/ 0917-7232237 and Cresol at 826-7716/0939-9069600.
Butuan to host 67th PICPA Annual National Convention
by Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY -- The Philippine Institute of Certified Accountants (PICPA) Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter will be hosting this year’s 67th Annual National Convention (ANC) on November 28 to December 2, 2012 at the Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort here. Friday, November 23, 2012
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PICPA National President Atty. Josefe Sorrera-Ty said that PICPA is the accredited professional organization (APO) of CPAs by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and has been awarded thrice as PRC most outstanding APO from among other professional organizations. Through PICPA, the country is actively represented in the world’s major accounting bodies. Foremost among these international organizations is the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), the broad objective which is the development and enhancement of a well coordinated worldwide accountancy profession functioning under harmonized standards. “82 years have passed, PICPA has continued to be faithful to its mission to enhance the integrity of the accountancy profession, serve the best interest of its members and other stakeholders, and contribute to the attainment of the country’s national objectives,” said Ty. Ty added that some 2,500 participants nationwide are expected to join in the big event. “With this upcoming event, we are helping Butuan City to be known by our guests from other regions and officials from the World Bank, 20 ONE MINDANAO
and we are also helping our local hotels and pension houses raise additional income,” she said. Ty also cited that they have been promoting the local products of Butuan whenever they attend activities in the different countries in the world. ANC co-chair Rowena Tabada also said that the ‘Balanghai’ which represents the event’s logo was chosen because it is a symbol of Ethics and Excellence enshrined in the Filipinos as early as pre-colonial times. “It is the earliest evidence of that early Filipino were already excellent traders. The Balanghais were used in keeping good business between the local people of Butuan and traders from the kingdoms within the regions,” she said.
Friday, November 23, 2012
DepEd sponsors “Buffet International Decoration in 2012” By Alma L. Tingcang
PAGADIAN CITY - Secondary and elementary teachers from Region 9 handling Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) and Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) subjects converged at Hotel Guillermo to attend the “Buffet International Decoration in 2012” sponsored by the Department of Education in cooperation with Classique Applause Production and Globe. Want to publish your photo, news and feature release just email http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIAWesMin-Info-Blitz/204864762911310
Friday, November 23, 2012
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Elpidio M. Buscato, executive director of Classique Applause Production and event organizer, said this is the first training/workshop of its kind held in Pagadian City which centered on buffet decoration, fruits, vegetables, ice carving and egg canapés. “The 2-day activity was very successful. The teachers were so excited and m a x i m u m participation was achieved during t h e
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demo/workshop and hands on at the end of each lecture,” Kuya Alfe, as he was fondly called, eagerly quipped. Kuya Alfe previously worked in 5-star hotels as food and beverage manager. To name a few, Hotel Intercontinental Manila, Holiday Inn, Bahrain and another hotel in Saudi Arabia. One interesting activity was the ice carving of a blue marlin. As the ice slowly melts, the more its beauty was revealed with added light effects making it more attractive. T h e
Friday, November 23, 2012
workshop consisted of lectures and video presentations facilitated by Chef Ramir R. Claros of Zamboanga City, whom Kuya Alfe met at the Manila Peninsula. Chef Ramir once worked in a luxury liner and a 5-star hotel. Participants ballooned to 83 since there were more who clamored to be part of the training-workshop in order to gain more enlightening experience on what the training had to offer. Zamboanga City recorded the biggest delegation. “We are waiting for another schedule which would be the second batch after arrangements as to schedules and availability of trainers and facilitators will be finalized,” Friday, November 23, 2012
Kuya Alfe explained. Kuya Alfe said DepEd Regional Director Walter O. Albos, who saw the presentations was impressed and requested him to facilitate another training because this would have a great impact on the teachers’ learning capabilities. One thing about Kuya Alfe being blessed is because he shares his blessings to the less fortunate. In Pagadian City, the kids at the Lingap Center are recipients of his generosity through feeding program. The activity was also sponsored by Camella Homes Pagadian, Classique Herbs Corp. Ever Bilena, Nature’s Spring, Yakult, Elisher Merchandise and Virginia Foods Inc. ONE MINDANAO 23
BALS to hold A & E test next month By Alfonso T. Ruda
DIPOLOG CITY - The Bureau of Alternative Learning System of the Department of Education is all set to conduct this year’s Accreditation and Equivalency (A & E)Test in Dipolog City next month. Ms. Catalina S. Barinaga, Dipolog City Schools Division ALS Supervisor said they have already received the advisory from DepEd Central Office for the conduct of the said test on December 16 this year. The examination will be conducted in two separate venues. The examination for the outof-school youths (OSYs) will be held at the Zamboanga del Norte National High School (main campus) in Barangay Estaka, while the examination for the detainees of the Dipolog City Reformatory Center at Barangay Upper Dicayas, this city will be held inside the reformatory complex. A total of 758 qualified
examinees, 683 out-of-school youths and 75 residents of the Dipolog City Reformatory Center, will be taking this year’s A & E test. Meanwhile, 580 OSY and 56 detainees will take the Secondary level while 103 OSY and 19 detainees will also take the elementary level. Successful examinees in the elementary level are eligible to enroll in high school in the opening of classes of the succeeding school year. On the other hand, those who will pass the secondary level will be eligible to enroll in college. The Accreditation and Equivalency Test, originally scheduled last October 7 was postponed twice for administrative reasons.
WESCOM marks start of Yuletide season ISABELA CITY, Basilan – The Western Command marked the official start of the holiday season dubbed as Kapaskuhan 2012 in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan with the ceremonial lighting of its Christmas tree on the evening of November 16. 24 ONE MINDANAO
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In a press release, Acting Public Affairs Officer 2Lt Ann F Abrigo PN (M) disclosed that leading the ceremony is Commander LtGen Juancho M. Sabban, who highlighted the essence and importance of the Yuletide season. Sabban said that the lighting of the tree is being done not only because it is a time-honored tradition, but because it is a time to revere the message of Christmas. “We gather here not simply to light the tree, which is a time-honored tradition, but more importantly to revere the message of Christmas, which is peace and goodwill towards all men that has been the guiding principle of our endeavors. Likewise, it reminds us of our noble duties to others - Christians and nonChristians alike,” the Commander explained. According to him, it has been a tough year for WESCOM, especially because its resolve to protect and defend the country’s territorial integrity and patrimony has been challenged. Nonetheless, its troops stood unfazed and the unity of the Friday, November 23, 2012
Filipino people prevailed. “As we continue to draw inspiration from our patriotic commitment, we shall remain undaunted and eager to serve the flag and country. This is the challenge that is imposed on us not only this season, but as long as we are in the service. Indeed, we have much yet to do, but we enter this season with higher hope, new confidence, and stronger faith. May all our prayers of peace and prosperity for Palawan and throughout the country be granted,” he stressed. Aside from the ceremonial lighting of Christmas tree, the light display at the headquarters was also lit and Christmas songs were played. Other upcoming activities include display of Christmas decorations, Belen/Lantern-making contest, gift-giving to CGARSH patients, command Christmas party, Misa de Gallo, visit to line units, midnight Mass, Noche Buena, New Year’s Mass, Media Noche, and traditional New Year’s call. ONE MINDANAO 25
AusAID grants P3.927 billion education assistance to ARMM
M
ore than 500,000 children in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will have better access to education as the Australian government through its Agency for International Development (AusAID) poured P3.927 billion (93.5 million Australian dollars) to the region under the Basic Education Assistance for Muslim Mindanao (BEAM)-ARMM program. 26 ONE MINDANAO
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“Through this, the Australian government hopes to contribute to the building of better education system that will contribute to peace,” said AusAID First Assistant Director General Rod Brazier. He said BEAM-ARMM is a symbol of friendship between the people of Mindanao and the Australian government. BEAM-ARMM will target the most disadvantaged children in ARMM and will provide training and capacitate 20,000 out-of-schoolFriday, November 23, 2012
youths in the region. Mohammad Noor Saada, Department of Education (DepEd) regional assistant secretary, said the BEAM-ARMM has four components that will each be separately implemented by an international non-governmental organization. The first component is the Early Childhood Education which will be implemented by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The second component, ONE MINDANAO 27
Essential Health Care Program, will be implemented by GIZ and Fit-for-School while the third and fourth components, namely, Vocational Technology Education and Alternative Delivery Model, will have Cardno and Brac as its implementing partners, respectively. A memorandum of subsidiary agreement (MSA) was also signed today by ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman, DepEd Regional Secretary Atty. Jamar Kulayan and Brazier during the launching of the program. The MSA is the implementing arrangement on how the program will be executed by the regional government and the DepEdARMM, as well as how the AusAID will support its implementation. “There is no project that is 28 ONE MINDANAO
in the heart of President Aquino than BEAM-ARMM,” said DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro. “This means so much not only to ARMM, but to the whole Philippines for it aims to close all gaps,” he added. For his part, Hataman said BEAMARMM manifests his administration’s commitment to education reform. In the 23 years existence of DepEd-ARMM, it is only now, through BEAM-ARMM, that the agency was directly involved in the program design, development and approval, the regional governor noted Hataman is also optimistic that BEAM-ARMM will play a crucial role in bridging the transition to a Bangsamoro system of education. (armmcommgroup) Friday, November 23, 2012
TESDA-Lanao del Sur allots P11.70 M for training programs under stimulus package by Apipa P. Bagumbaran
A training fund of P11.70 million under the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) stimulus package has been allotted for the province to finance the technical-vocational education and training of 1,619 beneficiaries. Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Director Tarhata S. Mapandi said it has started implementing the scholarship training programs which is part of the Transition Investment Support Plan (TISP) or the stimulus package provided by the national government to the ARMM regional government to fast-track key development initiatives in the region. Mapandi said the TESDA scholarship programs that will be implemented under the TISP have three components, namely, the Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) program, the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), and the TWSP for Ulama and Youth. She said there are 355 scholarship slots available for the PESFA and 249 slots for the TWSP. The training fund for the PESFA
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amounted to P2.81 million while that of the TWSP totalled P1.77 million, she further said. In addition, a fund of P7.12 million was also earmarked to finance the trainings of 1,015 beneficiaries coming from the Ulama and youth sector. This is to give priority to the Ulama and youth to avail of the TESDA scholarship trainings, Mapandi added. Among the courses offered under these programs are agricultural production, baking and pastry production, carpentry, commercial cooking, computer hardware servicing, consumer electronics servicing, dressmaking, electrical installation and maintenance, emergency medical services, food and beverage services, healthcare services, horticulture, housekeeping, masonry, massage therapy, and security services.
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Photo Gallery
ARMM Officials and members of the media commemorates the third year anniversary of the Maguindanao massacre calling for justice for the massacre victims. (johenry/armmcommgroup)
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Ingenious designers, local crafts producers features newest Christmas decors in CdeO by Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Using indigenous raw materials, the Misamis Oriental MultiFiber Cluster Inc (Momci), a group of craft producers and designers in Misamis Oriental, will display their most recent creation of Christmas decors on November 23, 2:00 p.m. at the Cagayan de Oro City Tourism Showhouse, Plaza Divisoria, this city. “Great selections every season,� is the theme for the third year of Momci Christmas Bazaar 2012. Engr. Vivian B. Libao, Momci president, said it has been a tradition for the group to bring in something new, something fresh every year to contribute to the Christmas Bazaar. These products are made from indigenous raw materials and cannot be found anywhere else in the world, she added. Aside from the anticipated Christmas decors, they will also display items that consumers usually look for such as woven abaca bags, fashion accessories, housewares, greeting cards, and home accents. Anyone can Friday, November 23, 2012
consider these products as great gift ideas since these cannot be found in stores. There are seven exhibitors present in the said grand opening namely 2N Handicrafts; Cagayan de Oro Handmade Paper Crafts; Chris Gomez Creative Design; Salay Handmade Paper Industries, Inc.; San Roque Dayawan Handmade Paper; Puyo Handicrafts; and Tinabuan Arts and Crafts. Organizers of the event include MOMCI in partnership with Cagayan de Oro City Tourism Office, Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. Region 10A and the Department of Trade and Industry Misamis Oriental Provincial Office. ONE MINDANAO 31
Establishments use internet to obtain information from gov’t agencies, says NSO by Apipa P. Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Most of the establishments in the information economy of the country uses internet in obtaining information from government agencies, according to the preliminary results of the 2010 Survey on Information and Communication Technology (SITC). Dr. Janith C. Aves of the National Statistics Office (NSO) in Northern Mindanao disclosed during the regional data dissemination that 78 percent of the establishments selected for the survey reported that they use internet to obtain information from government agencies while 74.5 percent use it to download or request government forms. She said the other transactions done by establishments through internet were sharing information within the company at 55.9 percent, obtaining information from other organizations at 55.6 percent, and complete or send forms online at 50.4 percent. The survey also reveals that almost half of the establishments utilizes internet in sharing information from other organization at 44.4 percent, and in the recruitment of staff at 41.9 percent. Staff training was the least among the transactions done through internet at 20.3 percent followed by on-line payments to government at 32.1 percent, and finance/accounting/auditing at 33.2 percent. 32 ONE MINDANAO
Marilou B. Igdon, Provincial Statistician Officer of Misamis Oriental, said the 2010 SICT aims to collect and generate information on the availability, distribution and access/utilization of ICT among establishments in the country. She said the measurement of ICT access and use enables the assessment and monitoring of the digital divide in the country and generates core ICT indicators important for measuring the progress in information and communication technology. According to her, a total of 8,557 establishments in the entire country were selected for the 2010 ICT survey. Other significant findings of the survey were the proportion of establishments using computers and other hardware across the country
Photo Credit: http://cms.interaksyon.com/infotech/assets/2012/11/internet.jpg Photo Credit: http://www.nscb.gov.ph/
Friday, November 23, 2012
which has been increasing for the three year period from 2008 to 2010 reaching 97 percent in 2010. The survey results further reveal that the proportion of establishments with internet connection in the country is increasing, reaching over 90 percent in 2010. Aves said business establishments have also begun to see the necessity of maintaining their own company website for their business operation. At the national average, she
noted that nearly 44 percent of IT establishments have developed a website as a medium of making their own products and services more competitive and visible in the world wide web. Nearly one third of establishments or 30.7 percent also utilized E-commerce in doing business. This excludes those establishments doing business transactions via the cellular mobile phone, she added.
8 persons hurt in Cagayan de Oro explosion by PSupt. Ronnie Francis M. Cariaga
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Eight persons were injured when a fragmentation grenade exploded Wednesday morning at the Golden Sun Financial Corporation (GSFC), located along Lapasan Highway, this city. The grenade explosion occurred when a security guard opened the front door of the office at around 8:15 a.m. Seriously wounded was the security guard identified as Jear Palma. The other seven (7) persons hurt in the explosion were: SPO2 Ronelio Mendiola; Rodolfo Cabutad, a retired police officer; Danny N. Ragrag, an employee of a nearby local business establishment; Varselisa J. Salamanca and Fritze G. Piyos, both employees of GSFC; and Fernando Biernes and Roderick Cadeviz, jeepney driver and passenger, respectively. PSSupt. Gerardo M. Rosales was administratively relieved of his position as City Director pending the investigation against him for his failure to prevent two (2) bomb Friday, November 23, 2012
explosions in the city in only a span of two months. PSupt. Antonio Montalba is designated as Officer-in-Charge of Cagayan de Oro City Police Office PCSupt. Gil J. Hitosis, Police Regional Office (PRO)-10 head, directed the chiefs of police stations and units to intensify security preparations and preempt the occurrence of similar incident. Investigating units were also directed to collect all evidence necessary to identify the perpetrators and file appropriate criminal charges against them as soon as possible. A Special Investigative Task Force has been created led by PSSupt. Eliseo Tam Rasco, regional officer of Criminal Investigation and Detective Unit (CIDU), to consolidate all investigative efforts of police units. ONE MINDANAO 33
Lady cops to be deployed in the city for the holidays by Joey Dalumpines
DAVAO CITY- The city’s top cop has bared a plan to deploy more policewomen on the streets for the holidays.
Police Senior Superintendent Ronald de la Rosa, director of the Davao City Police Office said this move is part of the security preparations for the Pasko Fiesta celebration where more people come to the city for vacation, shopping and revelry. He told the AFP-PNP Press 34 ONE MINDANAO
Corps 50 new cops half of them policewomen will augment the existing number of the city police to ensure the safety of the public in the duration of the Christmas and New Year celebrations. “Lady cops will be deployed in points of convergence in highlyurbanized areas during the holidays. They will patrol the malls and other places will people come together,” De la Rosa said. He said the policewomen are currently undergoing marksmanship and basic weapons training since they have to engage criminal elements if necessary. De la Rosa said these policewomen will be issued weapons by the city government and they will be deployed as soon as they are ready. He explained that policewomen must not limit themselves only to traditional roles like running the Women and Children’s Desk, administrative functions and handling juvenile Friday, November 23, 2012
offenders. De la Rosa said policewomen must also open themselves to actual police duties like to fight and run after criminals. “We need to see their performance in actual crime fighting. It is the reason why they have to undergo intense preparation to prove their ability,” he said. De la Rosa also warned the criminals to slow down with their nefarious activities on the city streets since lady cops are trained to deal with them accordingly. He said policewomen can both run after thugs and engage them in a shootout. De la Rosa also said that as part
of the Pasko Fiesta celebration two policemen will be assigned in every shelter area for indigenous peoples who will stay for the holidays. He said the move is in response to the plea of Councilor Berino Mambo-o, chair of the city council committee on the Indigenous people to assign a person in authority who will watch over the behaviour of the IPs while in the city. The city councilor earlier said that some IPs become unruly and would not follow local authorities whenever they get drunk. De la Rosa said the cops will ensure peace and order in the shelter areas.
CFARBEMPCO: from banana farm workers to entreps by Lovely Carillo TAGUM CITY- People would easily dismiss the country’s Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) as a failure but despite the flaws and the many sad stories, there are beneficiaries who have realized their dreams of becoming entrepreneurs due to CARP. Take the case of the beneficiaries belonging to the Checkered Farm Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative or CFARBEMPCO in Panabo City, Davao del Norte. “We were already CARP Friday, November 23, 2012
beneficiaries since the 1980s but the company (Checkered Farm) filed a 10-year deferment up to 1996,” CFARBEMPCO Board of Director Elenita Man-ao said. When the company voluntarily offered to sell the farm in 1995 she added, we applied as beneficiaries. Man-ao, and the 87 farmer-workers who formed the cooperative in 1996, used to be workers of the banana plantation. When the company got dissolved, they applied as beneficiaries and took the reign of the company’s management. ONE MINDANAO 35
“The farm was already established and since we were former employees, we just continued the standard operating procedures followed by the company,” she said. Checkered Farm used to buy the banana produce of the cooperative but later on turned it into a growership scheme which was bad for the cooperative as they had lots of losses, she said. They lost the contract but managed to get another contract with the same company, selling the bananas on an FOB or Freight on Board basis. “We took care of all the farm operations from office work, plant care and fruit care,” she said. The venture proved successful as they continued to export their products to the Middle East, South Korea, Japan and even China. Today, she said, they are still selling their banana produce to large companies but this time, the 36 ONE MINDANAO
buyers take care of the trucking which led to an almost 10 to 15 percent profit for the cooperative. “Pero dili gyud mi mangadatu ani (but this won’t make us rich,” she said, because out of the P500,000 gross revenue of the cooperative, only 15 percent or P90,000 is retained. Man-ao blames the high cost of inputs necessary to operate the banana plantation including the fertilizers, plastics and twines. The cooperative manages a 113-hectare banana plantation which they say, should ideally produce a certain number of boxes per hectare per year in order to for them to break even or even earn a profit. CEFARBEMPCO is a member of the Davao del Norte Credit Surety Fund but while it plans to get a loan and expand its production, it is not qualified for now as “they have to meet 25 percent of the liquidity of their assets,” according to DNCSF chair Celso Cubio. “Lisod man ang negosyo para sa amoa pero maka survive man pud mi ug padayon mang lang gihapon (business may be difficult for us but at least we are surviving and we are coping),” Man-ao said. Friday, November 23, 2012
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