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
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. 0908-8843404 E-mail: ro9_pia@yahoo.com mimibern17@yahoo.com Blogspot: www.piazampen.blogspot.com Facebook: PIA WesMin Info Bliz Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIAIX
Northern Mindanao Graces’ Building, Antonio Luna Street Cagayan de Oro City 9000 Telefax No. (08822) 72-66-83 Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594 Cellphone no. 0928-5204305 0917-3084969 E-mail: pia10_pd@yahoo.com r10_pia@yahoo.com 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
Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN) Provincial Capitol Compound Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St. Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506 Telephone no. (083) 520-0249 Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100 Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307 E-mail: r12_pia@yahoo.com, pia_xii@yahoo.com
Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga) Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg., J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239 Telefax no. (085) 341-2370 Cellphone no. 0917-7188834 Email: piacaraga@gmail.com , pia_caraga@yahoo. com,ph Blogspot: www.piacaraga.blogspot.com Facebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga
Today’s issue...
6 10 13 16 20 26
7 14 17 19 22 24 30 31 34
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Vol. 2 No. 35
Government committed to protect rights of Radio Philippines Network employees to be affected by retrenchment program next month DepEd Central Office cites LGU Tagum Louie Losaria/Louie Lapat, Southern Mindanao
Thousands of residents in Mis. Occ. benefit from CFL distribution of DOE Rutchie C. Aguhob, Northern Mindanao
DepEd releases new guidelines for honor students Jorie C. Valcorza, Northern Mindanao
Army treats 500 indigents in Agusan del Sur CPT. Noel S Abell, Caraga Region
ADN Regulates Smoking In Public Places Mary Cheryl Sabandal, Caraga Region
Families get banana project for livelihood, kids’ education Jenny Rose de Guzman, Central Mindanao
DA, BFAR 12 distribute portable smoke houses Shahana Joy E. Duerme, Central Mindanao
San Roque wins WFD Poster Contest Cherry Vic Cadiz, Western Mindanao
Cover Story
29
Skimboarding gains waves in Caraga Region
33
page 4
Erwin Mascarinas Caraga Region
Skimboarding gains waves in Caraga Region by Erwin Mascarinas
E
merging from the shadows of surfing from its Caraga birthplace in Siargao Island, skimboarding as a sport has slowly crept its way out in the open from a few wave fanatics into a growing community of its own in Butuan City and the entire Caraga Region. Ever since the emergence of surfing in Siargao, younger generation Caraganon’s and daredevils alike dream of riding on a board and doing tricks amongst the waves. Unfortunately, in this region where fishing is a major source of livelihood, surfing is mainly considered a sport
among the elite crowd especially since it requires expensive surfboards and additional expenses just to travel to the island and stay there for several days. For most young kids, skimboarding is a cheaper and a more practical way to ride the waves and 4
ONE MINDANAO
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
experience adrenalin rush. Cheap improvised boards have propelled enthusiasts four to six feet off the air with stunts you won’t imagine possible on the shoreline. A sport that traces its roots from Laguna Beach in California back in the 1960′s, it has evolved today into a a growing competitive sport with several events in the region. The growth compared to other sports has been relatively slow but there is no doubt about it that skimboarding is here to stay and influence more lives in the years to come.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
ONE MINDANAO
5
ACROSS THE NATION Aquino appoints Padaca as Comelec commissioner
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III appointed former Isabela Governor Grace Padaca as commissioner of the Commission on Elections with a term expiring in February 2018. In a letter dated September 28, 2012, President Aquino asked the Commission on Appointments to immediately confirm Padaca as Comelec commissioner. Born on October 25, 1963, Padaca became a Certified Public Accountant after graduating magna cum laude from the Lyceum of the Philippines in Manila. Although stricken with polio at an early age paralyzing both her legs, Padaca became an influential broadcaster in Isabela, inspiring the local people to understand civil and political issues and fight for what is right and just. Padaca rose to prominence in 2004 when she defeated governor Faustino Dy Jr., a member of a political dynasty that
6
ruled Isabela for 40 years. In May 2007 she was re-elected as Isabela governor after beating former governor Benjamin Dy. Among the awards she received were the Ramon Magsaysay award for Government Service (2008), the United States Department of State Woman of Courage award (2007), the Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. Fellowships for Professional Development award (2006), and the First CEO Excel Awards (2005). She also co-founded with then Pampanga Governor Eddie Panlilio and then Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo the Movement for Good Governance and Ethical Leadership called KAYA NATIN. PND (as)
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Government committed to protect rights of Radio Philippines Network employees to be affected by retrenchment program next month
P
esidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio “Sonny” B. Coloma Jr. assured that the government is committed to uphold and protect the rights of some 200 employees of Radio Philippines Network (RPN) following the implementation of a retrenchment program next month. In a press conference in Malacanang, to ensure the strict observance of Tuesday, Coloma said that even if the provisions of the Labor Code. the government’s involvement in “The PCOO continues to supervise running the network would be limited the operations and management of to the functions of two government- RPN and as we have declared in all of nominated directors, the PCOO will our appearances and statements continue to monitor the developments Wednesday, October 3, 2012
7
before both Houses of Congress, government is committed to protect the rights of the employees of RPN. We continue to monitor the developments in RPN to ensure that all the rights of the employees under the labor code are adequately protected. Ang tinitiyak namin ay iyong pagsunod o pagtalima sa probisyon ng Labor Code… malinaw naman po ang definition doon, ang sinasabi ko po dito kung anumang hugis o anyo ng kanilang retrenchment program, that will have to be fully compliant with the provisions of the Labor Code and that is what we have committed to uphold,” Coloma said. “Our participation in the management of RPN has been limited to the participation of the two governmentnominated directors and our constant and periodic monitoring by way of requiring management reports and reports of all significant actions taken including this decision to implement a retrenchment… iyon po ang extent ng government participation in the management of RPN,” he added. The two government-nominated directors are former Press Undersecretary Lourdes ‘Deedee’ Siytangco and
8
Antonio ‘Tonipet’ Albano, who served as president of RPN until he resigned effective August 31. A third seat remains vacant, according to Secretary Coloma. When asked on updates concerning the privatization of the two governmentsequestered television networks RPN and Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation (IBC), Coloma said that the proceeds from the two networks will be allocated to the revitalization of the government-owned Peoples Television Network (PTV). “On February 29, 2012 the Economic Development Cluster of the Cabinet approved the revitalization of PTV consisting of fresh capital infusion in the amount of P5 billion and amendments to the law allowing the network to collect commercial revenues. The policy adopted by the Economic Development Cluster is that approximately half of the fresh capital of five billion will be taken from the proceeds of the privatization of both RPN and IBC and the other half will be accounted for by spectrum management fees collected by the National Telecommunications Commission from broadcasting
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
and telecommunications companies,� Coloma noted. Radio Philippines Network is one of the media organizations under the supervision of the PCOO in Executive Order No. 4. In July of 2010 the Supreme Court ruled with finality that 32 per cent of RPN is owned by Far East Managers and Investors Incorporated or FEMI, an investment group associated with the late Ambassador Roberto S. Benedicto. In October of 2011, the new composition of the RPN Board reflected the equity structure as follows: 34% Solar Entertainment Group; 32% FEMI or Roberto S. Benedicto Group; 20.8% Government of the Republic of the Philippines and 14% individual private stockholders. Based on the said structure, the Governance Commission for Government Corporations (GCG) declared that RPN is no longer a government corporation. On Monday, RPN acting president Robert Rivera announced that it Wednesday, October 3, 2012
will cut at least 200 jobs with the closure of its central office in Quezon City by November of this year. The network said the retrenchment program would provide separation packages to a certain portion of the workforce and will take effect on Nov. 15. It added that the move would ease and provide relief to employees as well as resolve the issues of the network, including its P3-billion outstanding debt. PND
9
Leonen on peace talks with MILF: ‘Let us persevere’
G
overnment chief negotiator Marvic Leonen expressed the Philippine government’s optimism to finally “usher in an era of peace” in Mindanao, adding that “to state that what we hope to be able to do (in the peace talks) in the next few days is historical is definitely an understatement.” 10 ONE MINDANAO
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Speaking at the opening of the 32nd Formal Exploratory Talks between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) today, October 2 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Leonen said he was confident that a peace settlement on the decades-old Mindanao problem could be at hand soon. “Let us persevere, respect our differences but engage our best creativity in finding commonalities despite the differences. Now is the time to fulfil l our promises to our people,” Leonen said. “After all, there is no other way to resolve the difficulties and the vulnerabilities that lack of peace has brought to our people than to commence the implementation of a just and pragmatic solution that meets both our expectations.” “We are on the brink of layering the written predicates that can frame the process of building trust as we usher in an era of peace, of hope and of recovery,” he added. “Let us look forward to test our ability to implement, encounter difficulties we could not have foreseen, adjust, build trust, build confidence and work further together.” For his part, MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal echoed the government’s “guarded optimism,” in his own opening statement and acknowledged that “the negotiations is now on the home stretch and the smell of success is reinforced every Wednesday, October 3, 2012
day.” “Remember that negotiations, contrary to what many believe, is a risky business. If we cannot conclude it soon successfully, now that we are at the brink of the exercise, we will be in trouble,” Iqbal said. “For all we know, the greatest source of risk comes from spoilers, leaders, and parties who believe that these emerging from negotiations threatens their power and interests, and use violence to undermine attempts to achieve it.” Iqbal also expressed concern that the uncertainty over the success of the peace talks can be further complicated by the holding of the Philippine midterm elections in May. “As expected, stretching of party affiliations is the rule and this so-called complex and principled alliances that both haggles political enemies in these barriers are now best friends and allies,” he noted. Malaysian facilitator Tengku Dato Abd Ghafar Tengku Mohammed congratulated both panels for “doing a great job in the past two sessions. “ “As far as Malaysia is concerned we are always committed. The (Malaysian) Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak is very happy with the progress of the peace talks,” Ghafar said. Among those who witnessed the opening session of the talks as observers were members of the International Contact Group ONE MINDANAO 11
and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Officein-Charge Mujiv Hataman. Leonen’s opening statement also stated that the Filipino people have lived through the perils of armed conflict long enough. “Many of you know this vulnerability intimately. Many of our families live under precarious conditions. Much of it spawned by the failure to find a just and pragmatic solution to a long time conflict,” he said. “Negotiated political settlements that emerge out of armed conflicts have neither victors nor vanquished. Negotiated political settlements reject that dichotomy as a premise and again, rightly so,” Leonen pointed out. “Negotiated political settlements occur when there are leaders with clearer but loftier visions of ways through which their pluralistic societies exist with toleration, democracy and development. Our principals, those of the MILF as well as that of government, are such leaders.” “While our presence here acknowledges that we do have our differences, we all know that finding mutually acceptable solutions also have as their premise a willingness to accept that we do have consensus that we can build on,” Leonen said. “The chances of finding an agreement is highest when we opt to focus on what we 12 ONE MINDANAO
can agree upon rather than the fundamental differences that we will normally have.” During the last round of talks in Septemner, Leonen said during the closing ceremonies that he was “humbled and admit a certain level of guarded excitement as we make histtory in measured -- and certainly painstaking steps. These are indeed exciting times. Let us make history together.” Leonen explained this morning that government still remains guarded in its optimism “not because there is not enough goodwill ro find solutions to the issues that remain on this negotiating table; but rather, because we need to prepare ourselves and our people too for the enormous task that lies ahead.” The current negotiation between the two parties is guided by the Decision Points on Principles signed on April this year which listed down the common points from the panels’ respective initial positions -- the MILF, from their February 2011 Revised Comprehensive Compact and the GPH, from its August 2011 “three-for-one” proposal. Included in the Decision Points on Principles are initial points of agreement such power and resources sharing and creation of a new political entity (NPE) that will replace the current ARMM, among others. Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Davao Cinematheque hosts Cine Europa 15 By Rudolph Alama of the annual program of selected European films in Davao City, however this will be the first time it would be held at the Cinematheque which is run by the Film Development Council of the Philippines. European Union Ambassador Guy Ledoux together with Ambassadors Wilhelm Donko (Austria), Christian Meerschman (Belgium), Deputy Ambassador Juerg Casserini (Switzerland) and Honorary Consul Mr. Francisco Lon Ozamis of the Spanish consulate is expected to grace the opening of the event alongside FDCP chairperson Briccio Santos and Museo Dabawenyo Officer-inCharge Orly Escarilla representing DAVAO CITY- The Davao Cinemathe City Government. theque will feature a selection of This year’s festival will screens films from the European Cinema 21 European films from Austria, during the Cine Europa 15 Film Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Festival to be starting October 4. Finland, France, The festival which runs until Denmark, October 21 is the fourth staging Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Wednesday, October 3, 2012
ONE MINDANAO 13
Norway, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. This is the 15th holding of the film festival in the country. “Through Cine Europa, the European Union sends a strong message to reaffirm the partnership and shared values of the European Union with the Philippines in the areas of culture and heritage”. Ambassador Ledoux said in a statement. Cine Europa 15 is organised by the European Union Cultural Group in Manila which is composed of the Embassies and Cultural Institutes of the European Union. It is also co-organized by the the Embassies of Norway and Switzerland, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the Independent Film
Cooperative. Among the festival’s partners include, Liceo de Cagayan de Oro (Mindanao), Arts Council of Cebu, Ayala Center Cebu and the ShangriLa Plaza Mall (Manila) with support from KLM Air France. Inquirer.Net and Travelife Magazine are this year’s media partners. The Davao Cinematheque inaugurated in July of this year was built under a usufruct agreement with the City Government of Davao, with funding coming from the FDCP and material assistance from SM Cinemas particularly with its cinema projectors, it is aimed to showcase old Filipino classics and world cinema films to the public. Entrance to the cinematheque is free.
DepEd Central Office cites LGU Tagum TAGUM CITY- The Department of Education (DepEd) Central Office recognized the Local Government of Tagum for its unwavering passion and support to the cause of education in a ceremony led by Education Sec. Armin Luistro held at the Bulwagan ng Karunungan in DepEd’s main office in Pasig City, Manila.
The recognition comes with the
Adopt-a-School insignia made by acclaimed National Artist Napoleon Abueva which was received by 14 ONE MINDANAO
Executive Assistant III to the City Mayor Mrs. Delia B. dela Cruz and OIC Schools Division Superintendent Mrs. Cristy C. Epe, who both represented Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy in the Thanksgiving and Recognition Program organized by the Adopt-a-School Program of DepEd. The first day of October marked the city’s latest achievement with the mayor accepted the award during the First Monday Flag Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Raising Ceremony. The said recognition was awarded to LGUs who earnestly participated on addressing the needs for school equipments and supplies most especially to those schools located in remote areas in the Philippines. LGU Tagum has been recognized in the entire country through the initiative of Mayor Uy during the awarding especially on making and
distributing school facilities nationwide through the Care for School Chairs Program (CFSC). For the period of the ceremony it was enumerated that Tagum City had provided 3 classrooms, 13,004 armchairs, 3,875 desks, 404 tables and learning support towards improving the quality of public education in the country. CFSC which has turned one year last August, is a brainchild project of Mayor Uy which is fabricating school chairs, desks and tables from the confiscated illegal logs turned-over by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and distributed by the city government to the schools in the country. (Louie Losaria/Louie Lapat of CIO Tagum)
Did you know... That the progressive city of Tagum traces its roots from a homesteaders’ settlement led by a Cebuano immigrant named Sulpicio Quirante who arrived in the area in 1929. The migrants organized themselves as the Magugpo Homesteader’s Association and bought the homestead of a native named Lolo Mandaya. The homesteaders later subdivided the land into residential lots (750 square meters) which was sold to incoming migrants for P1.50 -tagumcity.gov.ph Wednesday, October 3, 2012
ONE MINDANAO 15
Inter-agency body intensifies efforts to fight human trafficking by Apipa P. Bagumbaran
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Regional Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (Riacat) in Northern Mindanao is pushing for the creation of a task force as part of its intensified effort to fight human trafficking in the region. The task force to be called the Regional Inter-Agency Task Force Against Trafficking, will undertake measures to prevent and suppress trafficking in persons (TIP), especially women and children, and to ensure their recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration into mainstream society. The task force will be composed of the regional agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Justice through the National Prosecution Service, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Labor and Employment, 16 ONE MINDANAO
National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Ports Authority, Bureau of Immigration, Commission in Human Rights and a representative of a nongovernment organization. The proposed operational guidelines that will serve as the Wednesday, October 3, 2012
blueprint for the action of the task force was discussed by the members of the Riacat-10 during its third quarter meeting last September 21. Assistant Regional Prosecutor Merlynn B. Uy, presiding officer of the Riacat-10 meeting, said the operational guidelines will supplement
the Manual on Law Enforcement and Prosecution of TIP Case, which was issued by the Iacat. She said the creation of a joint task force is mandated under the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 9208 or the Anti-Human Trafficking Act.
Thousands of residents in Mis. Occ. benefit from CFL distribution of DOE by Rutchie C. Aguhob
OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental – At least 4,569 households in the first district of the province were benefitted by the Department of Energy’s National Residential Lighting Program under the Philippine Energy Efficiency Project (DOE-NRLP-PEEP). This number represents 91.38 percent of the targeted 5,000 households from the local government units (LGU’s) of the said district represented by Congressman Jorge Almonte. Each of these households is given at least two (2) compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) provided by DOE, in exchange of their electric bills issued by the Misamis Occidental Electric Cooperative, Inc. (MOELCI), the electric service provider in the area. Use of the CFL’s, which has a lamp life of 10,000 hours, each, saves the users at least P400, every year, the DOE said. A Philippine Government initiative, the PEEP campaigns for switching to CFL from incandescent Wednesday, October 3, 2012
lamps to lower electricity consumption, guarantee longer lamp life and help protect the environment. “We are very happy to note that the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III has covered all the aspects of governance, including the need for the an efficient and energy saving system of the constituents, which is addressed by DOE’s NRLP-PEEP,” Almonte said. “Just recently, we have involved ourselves in this project of the DOE, whereby 10,000 CFL’s were scheduled for distribution to 5,000 households or two (2) CFL’s per households of the constituents in my district,” he also said. The recipients of the CFL, who are mostly the barangay officials ONE MINDANAO 17
and electric cooperative consumers are very grateful for the program, the Congressman added. On the other hand, Celeste Almonte, CFL Distribution Coordinator said nine (9) out of the District’s 10 LGU’s have been covered by the project, which she hopes to be completed, this week. These LGU’s where the distribution of the CFL’s have been completed are Oroquieta City and the towns of Aloran, Baliangao, Calamba, Concepcion, Jimenez, Sapang Dalaga, Lopez-Jaena and Plaridel. So far, said the most number of 1,800 CFL’s or 18 percent were distributed in Oroquieta City, followed by Aloran with 1,368 CFL’s or 13.68 percent, Plaridel, 1,188 CFL’s or
18 ONE MINDANAO
11.88 percent, Lopez-Jaena, 1,008 CFL’s or 10.08 percent and Sapang Dalaga, also 1,008 CFL’s or 10.08 percent. The other LGU’s received this number of CFL’s: Jimenez, 864 CFL’s or 8.64 percent, Calamba, 684 CFL’s or 6.84 percent, Concepcion, 642 CFL’s or 6.42 percent and Baliangao, 576 CFL’s or 5.76 percent. The remaining 862 CFL’s or 8.62 percent will be distributed in Panaon town, later this week, the CFL Distribution Coordinator said. Another 10,000 CFL’s will be distributed to 5,000 households in the Second District of the province represented by Congressman Leo Loreto Ocampos, the DOE said.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
DepEd releases new guidelines for honor students by Jorie C. Valcorza CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental - Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro has released new guidelines in choosing honor pupils and students from Grades 1 to 10 following the reforms introduced under the K to 12 Basic Education curriculum. Signed on September 6, Department of Education (DepEd) Order No. 74 series of 2012 states that top students must not have a final grade lower than 85 (proficient level) and shall likewise not have a grade of 75 to 79 (developing level) in any quarter. The candidates must also come from the advanced level class. The new system now uses descriptive remarks and is more illustrative of the proficiency level of the students, DepEd-10 Regional Director Gloria D. Benigno said. It puts equal emphasis on other activities that are not academic as part of school nurturing that focuses on other aspects of a child’s total development. Students will be ranked using the 7-3 point scheme, seven points for academic performance and three points for co-curricular activities. A l l candidates for Wednesday, October 3, 2012
honors must be of good moral character and have not been subject to any disciplinary action within the current year. Achievements in specific academic disciplines such as Math, Science, and English and in curricular activities such as sports, arts and campus journalism, shall also be given recognition. Benigno noted that the implementation will start next school year for Grades 1 and 7, while existing DepEd Order No.92 s. 2009 shall still apply in selecting honor pupils for Grades 2 to 6 in the elementary level and second year to fourth year in the secondary level.
ONE MINDANAO 19
Butuan celebrates Universal Children’s Month by Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY -- Preschoolers from different barangays in this city, together with their teachers and parents, gathered and performed mass demonstrations as the Universal Children’s Month celebration kicked off today at the Guingona Park here.
www.piacaraga.blogspot.com
20 ONE MINDANAO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIA-CaragaUpdates/165374590187484
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
As an opening activity of the program, children paid tribute to the senior citizens by offering them flowers. Today’s activity for the children’s month celebration is also in time with the conduct of the free medical mission for senior citizens, held at the same venue, as part of the monthlong celebration for the Elderly Filipino Week from October 1-6, 2012. Angelita Amista of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga congratulated the city government of Butuan led by City Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. for winning the Regional Search for the Child-Friendly City in the Highly-Urbanized City Category. The local government of Butuan is also an entry for the national level. Also, Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. said that children should be loved and valued. He also appreciated the efforts of senior citizens who contributed much in nation-building. Meanwhile, Butuan City Social Welfare and Development Officer Aldeberan Mordeno thanked all the participating preschools Wednesday, October 3, 2012
in Butuan and hoped that the number of enrolled preschoolers this year will increase by next year. The Universal Children’s Month celebration is anchored on the theme “Bright Child ay Siguraduhin. Responsableng Pamamahayag ay Palaganapin (Ensure Bright Child. Adopt Responsible Journalism).” The United Nations has declared the month of October of every year as the Universal Children’s Month, and through Presidential Proclamation No. 267 dated September 30, 1993, the Philippine government observes October of every year as the National Children’s Month.
ONE MINDANAO 21
Army treats 500 indigents in Agusan del Sur by CPT. Noel S Abell
Brgy Awa, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur -- More or less 500 indigenous people benefited medical-dental civic action program conducted by Army’s 401 Infantry (Unity) Brigade at Barangay New Maug, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on October 02, 2012.
Cpt Rojel Omictin, Commanding Officer of Charlie Battery, 10th Field Artillery Battalion, 401Bde spearheaded the MEDCAP together with the medical teams of the Unity Brigade and the Local Government Unit of Prosperidad, ADS. According to Cpt Omictin that the 401st Brigade under the leadership of Col Romeo G Gan 22 ONE MINDANAO
rendered free medical consultation, dental extraction and circumcision to the populace of Brgy New Maug to treat prevalent diseases and illnesses in the area. “Based on our research, fever, hypertension, skin diseases, cough, arthritis, tooth decay, and uncircumcised male children are the common health problems in Wednesday, October 3, 2012
government is doing their utmost support to provide health services to everybody especially those in need. “This MEDCAP is a Bayanihan effort between Army troopers and other local government agencies to help our less fortunate brothers and sisters in far-flung barangays who cannot afford to go to expensive hospitals for consultation and medication,” Col Gan said. Meanwhile, the activity was also highlighted with slippers giving to children as well as Mayor Magdamit distributed PhilHealth Cards to the beneficiaries.
the area. Our troops also gave free haircut to the recipients” Cpt Omictin said. MEDCAP was also participated by the top local government officials of Agusan del Sur namely, Ms Gina A Ceballo, Executive Assistant for Health Services and Hon Albin D Magdamit, Mayor of Prosperidad. Col Gan emphasized that the Wednesday, October 3, 2012
ONE MINDANAO 23
ADN Regulates Smoking In Public Places by Mary Cheryl Sabandal
Agusan del Norte -- Identified as one of the leading causes of death worldwide, cigarette smoking is still the indomitable triggering stimulus of lung cancer influencing the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte to approve Provincial Ordinance No. 303-2012 sponsored by Board Member James T. Reserva regulating smoking in public places within the territorial jurisdiction of the province. To protect the Agusanons, centers, nursing homes, laboratories, especially the children, from acquiring airports, ship terminals, bus stations, lung cancer, ADN mandates to restaurants, conference halls and in absolutely prohibit smoking in schools, food preparation areas where food or elevators, stairways, fire hazard beverage is being manufactured or areas like gas stations, storage of prepared. explosives or combustible materials, All owners, proprietors, public and private hospitals, medical, operators, possessors, managers or dental and optical clinics, health administrators of establishments are 24 ONE MINDANAO
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
obliged to determine the size and specifications of the smoking and non- smoking areas in conformity with Presidential Decree 1096 or the National Building Code and the Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers Code. The designated smoking area must be in an open space and fully separated from the smoke-free area by continuous floor-to-ceiling or floorto-floor solid partitions and must be constantly closed. Signage for smoking and nonsmoking areas shall be placed in conspicuous places for the information of all concerned and it must be written in legible and visible signs including the ill effects of both the direct and secondary exposure to tobacco smoke. Retailers are prohibited to sell or distribute tobacco products to minors and vice versa. They are also prohibited to sell tobacco products within 100
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
meters from a school, playground and other facilities frequented by minors. All outdoor or mass media advertising allowed by this ordinance must also contain either in English or Filipino the following health warning: “GOVERNMENT WARNING: Cigarette Smoking is Dangerous to your Health”. Failure to abide by this ordinance will be penalized from P500.00 to P5,000.00 plus cancellation of business permits and licenses. The said ordinance is in line with the provisions of Republic Act 9211 known as “An Act Regulating the Packaging, Use, Sale, Distribution and Advertisement of Tobacco Products for Other Purposes” and validated under the General Welfare Clause of Republic Act 7160 which empowers the local government units to ensure, among other things, the promotion of health and safety of its inhabitants.
ONE MINDANAO 25
Soldiers undergo conflict management orientation-workshop by Apipa P. Bagumbaran
S
ome 100 soldiers from the 51st Infantry (Fuerte Uno) Battalion of Philippine Army including Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) Active Auxiliaries (CAA) under the command of Lt. Col. Ceasar Marlon M. Yadao recently underwent an orientationworkshop on “rido (family feud),� and conflict management. The one-day orientation and workshop, held at the 51st IB headquarters in Malabang town, was conducted in partnership with 26 ONE MINDANAO
the Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities (RIDO) Inc. and the Department for International Development (DFID) Wednesday, October 3, 2012
through the Asia Foundation. It was aimed at raising the awareness of our soldiers on the causes of conflicts, particularly clan wars, and educate them on the principles and approaches of rido resolution and traditional conflict mediation, said Lt. Col. Yadao. Among the topics tackled during the orientation-workshop included the causes of rido, the different methods in handling conflicts, and the major approaches in resolving conflicts. The soldier-participants were also given practical exercises involving their personal
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
experiences in resolving conflicts within their families, community, and the Philippine Army. Lt. Col. Yadao said the activity helped enhance the capabilities of the Fuerte Uno soldiers in dealing with rido and other conflicts. He also expressed optimism that with the continuous partnership with the nongovernment organizations, such as the RIDO Inc., and constant dialogues with stakeholders, the conflict between families can be resolve in a peaceful manner without sacrificing innocent lives. (51st IB)
ONE MINDANAO 27
Photo Release
Congressman Pacquiao files COC at the Comelec provincial office ALABEL, Sarangani - Congressman Manny Pacquiao will bid for re-election as he files his certificate of candidacy (COC) at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) provincial office Tuesday, October 2, at the National Offices Building inside the Capitol complex. With him is wife Jinkee who is running for vice governor of Sarangani province. (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE) 28 ONE MINDANAO
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Donors lay artificial reef domes in Sarangani Bay By Jenny Rose de Guzman MAASIM, Sarangani-- Several organizations and volunteers partnered with the Sarangani provincial government for the deployment of artificial reef domes in Barangay Tinoto here in celebration of the International Coastal Cleanup month.
Non-government organization World Vision paid for the materials and labor in making the artificial reef structures while members of the people’s organization Tinoto Fisherfolk’s Association provided labor to complete at
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
least 300 artificial reef domes. Other partners of World Vision International in the implementation of the project included: Alcantara Foundation, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, Office of the Municipal
Agriculturist, P r o v i n c i a l Environment and Natural Resources Office, Environmental Conservation and Protection Center, and barangay officials. As of Friday, September 28, a total of 29 artificial reef
ONE MINDANAO 29
domes have been submerged in the area, which is part of Sarangani Bay. “Basically the project will help in the conservation and protection of Sarangani Bay,” said Jean delos Santos, project officer of Alcantara Foundation. The 73rd Infantry Battalion led the deployment of the
heavy structures from the coast to the bay while divers from PENRO, ECPC, and Lemlunay Resort positioned the artificial reef domes underwater. Other local government units and the management of Lemlunay Resort provided sleds to transport the reef domes as well as diving suits, boats
used in the actual deployment. At least 271 artificial domes have yet to be deployed in Sarangani Bay. World Vision is a Christian relief, d e v e l o p m e n t and advocacy o r g a n i z a t i o n dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice.
Families get banana project for livelihood, kids’ education By Jenny Rose de Guzman
ALABEL, Sarangani-- Almost 200 families in barangay Alegria here received livelihood assistance in the form of cardava banana seedlings with training on its proper planting and growing.
Chairman Hilario Villamora expressed his gratitude to organizations behind the project which he said would greatly help their community. “Let us take care of the banana seedlings given to us because these could help our families and the education of our 30 ONE MINDANAO
children,” Villamora told the beneficiaries. The ceremonial turn over and banana leaves livelihood training project was held Thursday, September 27 at barangay Alegria gymnasium. The project was initiated by World Vision International in partnership with
Sarangani Agricultural Company Inc. (SACI), Alcantara Foundation, and the offices of the provincial and municipal agriculturists. The project aims to help disadvantaged families to use their capacities for sustainable development. Wednesday, October 3, 2012
World Vision, Alcantara Foundation, and SACI sponsored more that 14,000 planting materials (cardava banana seedlings) for distribution to the recipient families. At the ceremony, Lyndon Magtulis, executive director of Alcantara Foundation appealed to the beneficiaries to take good care of the seedlings. He also urged them to share their experience by giving seedlings to their neighbors once they have harvested from their banana farms. Through this livelihood project, the
help extends to the “whole family” and could provide for their children’s education as well, he said. The provincial and municipal agriculture offices and municipal and barangay officials took part in the project through technical support especially in conducting the training for proper planting and growing of the banana seedlings. Some 195 families have been registered with World Vision at barangay Alegria benefited from the livelihood assistance. Each family is entrusted with 75 seedlings of cardava
banana. Part of the requirements for acquiring the seedlings for each family is a verified owned land area to plant the banana. It will be monitored by area leaders appointed by the NGO. On September 27, a total of 3,000 banana seedlings were initially turned over to beneficiaries. World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice.
DA, BFAR 12 distribute portable smoke houses By Shahana Joy E. Duerme KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) both in Region 12 recently handed over seven portable smoke houses to some agriculturerelated organizations in the region.
The beneficiaries Barangay Concepcion Koronadal City, Office of the project were Women Association in of the Provincial Wednesday, October 3, 2012
ONE MINDANAO 31
Agriculturist of South Cotabato, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat and the City Agriculture Offices of Koronadal and Tacurong. DA 12 Regional Executive Director Amalia J. Datukan said the project aims to help rural women generate income. “This project was undertaken to motivate rural women in livelihood development that would give them additional income for better living,” Datukan said. Portable Smoke House, a joint project 32 ONE MINDANAO
of DA and BFAR is a post-harvest facility used in fish processing and preservation to add value to fishes which in turn can give livelihood and income to rural women in the region.
On the other hand, Fe Ibaňez, gender and development focal person recognized the realization of the project as means to women’s participation and benefits in developmental efforts and activities in Soccsksargen. The portable smoke houses were handed to the recipients during the turnover ceremony and techno-demo at BFAR 12 Office in Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City on September 27 and 28.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Diabetes leading cause of kidney disease, says REDCOP coordinator By Franklin P. Gumapon
DIPOLOG CITY - “Eighty percent dxAA recently. Dr. Abutazil said the three of patients suffering from kidney major causes of renal disease are disease are diabetics.” This was disclosed by Dr. Michael U. Abutazil, renal transplantation head of the Western Mindanao Medical Center (WMMC) in Zamboanga City and regional Renal Disease Control Program (REDCOP) coordinator in a radio interview conducted here over
diabetes, hypertension and infection in the kidney. “Ten years of being hypertensive may develop kidney disease,” stressed Abutazil. He also advised the listening public to maintain a healthy lifestyle before any ailment, adding that
Want to publish your photo, news and feature release just email http://www.facebook.com/pages/PIAWesMin-Info-Blitz/204864762911310
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
ro9_pia@yahoo.com
piazampen.blogspot.com ONE MINDANAO 33
“smoking, alcoholic intake, fatty and salty foods are harmful to the body.” In a related development, Abutazil disclosed that WMMC is now capable of performing kidney transplantation for renal patients. Its first kidney transplantation was done in October last year. WMMC’s kidney transplantation package would cost a patient more or less P850,000. But the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth),
is now giving a subsidy of P625,000 to each member who would undergo kidney transplantation. “With the PhilHealth subsidy, the patient may only shell out P160,000 for his kidney transplantation at WMMC,” Abutazil said. The hospital has already transplanted kidneys to three patients and they are all going well “with no evidence of rejection.” Renal disease is now considered a medical problem nationwide.
San Roque wins WFD Poster Contest By Cherry Vic Cadiz
ZAMBOANGA CITY - Alidin Abbilul, a grade six pupil of San Roque Elementary School bagged the 1st prize in the regional World Food Day (WFD) poster-making contest. He bested 31 other participants.
34 ONE MINDANAO
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
A total of 16 schools both private and public participated in the contest held recently at Grand Astoria Hotel, this city. Eleven year old Abbilul explains his poster as people from all walks of life working together to produce food for all. He was awarded with a certificate of participation and P3,000.00 cash prize. On October 16, 2012 which is World Food Day, Abbilul will represent region IX in the National WFD poster making contest in Manila; where a cash award of P15,000 pesos awaits the national winner and the winning entry will be used in the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations Christmas cards. He and his coach will go on an allexpense paid trip courtesy of the Department of Agriculture (DA and FAO. The poster making contest utilized agricultural materials and fishery products like palay grains, mongo, squash seeds, corn kernels, peanuts, husks, sea shells, dried Wednesday, October 3, 2012
seaweeds, and others. Raffyboy Lanoza of Catalina Vda de Jalon Memorial School won 2nd place, and Luke Anthony Tacang of Baliwasan Central School was third place. DA regional information officer Maria Melba B. Wee said that this year’s theme, “Agricultural Cooperatives: Key to Feeding the World” is timely since the department is now working closely with cooperatives all over the country; where agricultural projects are prioritized to be given to cooperatives such as irrigation, post-harvest facilities and others. In a similar event, a quiz bee and poster making contest were also conducted in celebration of the World Rabies Day on September 28. Sta. Maria Central School won 1st place in the Quiz Bee grade school level, while City High West won 1st place in the Poster making contest high school level. The activity was a collaboration between DA, Department of Health, DepEd, DILGPNP, and the ZC-Office of the City Veterinarian. ONE MINDANAO 35
83