page 4
OUR COVER
LGU Barangayan provides better health access to far-flung communities Aida C. Agad Central Mindanao
Page 4
Today’s news...
Page 6 NATIONAL
Page 14 9 Page 11
8
President Aquino says Napoles may be charged in relation to alleged misuse of pork barrel funds by Friday
CENTRAL MINDANAO
13 15
CARAGA REGION
18 20
DRRM summit in Soccsksargen to spell out responsibilities of local chiefs
Danilo E. Doguiles
Two senior citizens associations in S. Kudarat elect new set of officers Shahana Joy E. Duerme
KBP Butuan members unite for the Urban Greening activity Jennifer P. Gaitano
Fruit seedlings ready for Siargao ‘greening’ Eugenio Lira, Jr.
NORTHERN MINDANAO
29 30
29
DTI warns public anew vs. mislabeled Christmas decors, unsafe products Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy
Construction of new roads going to remote tourist destinations safe
Jorie C. Valcorza
WESTHERN MINDANAO
33 34
Page 16 ARMM
38
CMC urges business establishments to open Michael Vincent D. Cajulao
DSWD says there are enough food, supplies for Zambo evacuees Dominic I. Sanchez
Agriculture office distributes farm animals to farmers’ coops in Lanao del Sur Apipa P. Bagumbaran
SOUTHERN MINDANAO
Page 28
44
ComVal readies for energization of its sitios Grace almedilla
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013 Vol. 3 No. 18
COVER STORY
LGU Barangayan provides better health access to far-flung communities By Aida C. Agad
B
Bringing health services to the interior communities makes our “Barangayan” program responsive to one of the people’s basic needs,” a local health official said. Anita M. Mauricio, Head Nurse of Makilala Rural Health Unit (RHU) said health and dental services are among the frontline provisions that Makilala LGU brings to the communities under its “Barangayan”program. Unchanged figure in the Rural Health Unit daily clients indicates
that the “Barangayan” serves those residents that have constraints accessing health services at the municipal center, the official said. Beginning June this year, five of the 38 barangays in Makilala have been reached by the program, which covers two barangays a month. From these barangays, 753 residents have availed of health consultations, 169 got free latrine, and 386 underwent dental extraction. Upper Respiratory-Tract Infection (cough, rhinitis) is among the top illnesses referred to by residents, Mauricio said.
Key personnel of the LGU services departments and offices stay for two days in the communities during the “Barangayan” activity. Services extended include health consultations and education, dental extraction and lectures, distribution
of latrine, repair or construction of critical infrastructures, establishment of barangay seed bank, agricultural technology sharing, livestock health consultation and artificial insemination, civil registration, tax and business licensing campaign, and ‘kasalang-bayan,’ among others. Mauricio added that the “Barangayan” has also become an opportunity for Makilala RHU to reach out to residents issued with PhilHealth card to avail health services at least once in a quarter. At least nine personnel from the RHU and a number of their barangay health workers participate in every “Barangayan” activity of the LGU. “Barangayan” is usually conducted during Tuesday and Wednesday, twice month. 5
ACROSS THE NATION
President Aquino expresses confidence no new escalation of tensions to ensue in Zamboanga City
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III expressed confidence on Tuesday that no new escalation of tensions between the Moro National Liberation Front and the government forces would ensue after security forces in Zamboanga City were beefed up to maintain order and protect the citizens.
In a press briefing after keynoting regular updates from Interior and Local the 7th ASEAN Navy Chiefs Meeting Government Secretary Manuel Roxas in Makati City, the President said that II, who is in the province to personally WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
6
oversee the operations against the breakaway group, had been favorable and thus warranted his expression of confidence. He also pointed out that troop deployment had been “overwhelmingly” augmented to ensure the stability of peace in the province. “Kahapon adequate, ngayon palagay ko overwhelming na. Marami tayong iniair lift na mga tropa, kasama na ang ating mga pinaka-elite na forces nandoon na sa Zamboanga City. Ang pagka-intindi ko medyo kalmado na ang sitwasyon,” the President said. He stressed that the safety of all civilians and residents in the province remained the top priority of the government as he lauded the local government of Zamboanga City for remaining on top of the situation. “Gaya ng instructions natin mula kahapon, ang priority natin is maniguradong safe lahat, or ma-enhance natin ang safety ng lahat ng mga mamamayan ng WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
Zamboanga City,” the President said. “Talagang nakatutok si Mayor Climaco ng husto, hands-on, na-activate ang crisis management council kahapon pa, at natapos iyong mga reports nila sa akin kagabi something like 11:30,” he said. The President also said that with the current state of operations being undertaken by the combined personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police, he saw no need to declare a state of emergency in the province “At this time, wala pa ng need to declare a state of emergency in the province,” the President said. PND
7
President Aquino says Napoles may be charged in relation to alleged misuse of pork barrel funds by Friday
P
resident Benigno S. Aquino III said on Tuesday that appropriate charges in relation to the alleged misuse of the priority development assistance fund (PDAF) may be filed against Janet Lim Napoles by Friday.
President Aquino told reporters in a press conference after keynoting the 7th ASEAN Navy Chiefs Meeting in Makati City that government prosecutors were studying the evidences, analyses and “possible defenses that can be brought to court” in order to have a rock-solid case against Napoles. “The first charges with regards to this issue, I understand, will be filed not later WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
than Monday. There is a possibility it can be filed by Friday. I will be given a briefing on what the lawyers called the theory of the case, the evidence that supports the theory of the case,” the President said. “So a complete briefing sometime this week; and the commitment is not later than Monday next week, and possibly by Friday this week,” he noted. PND
8
ARMM says 7,500 food packs for Zamboanga on standby
S said.
ome 7,500 food packs are ready for transport to Zamboanga City, a top official of the Autonomous Region Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) here
Speaking to newsmen, ARMM Executive Secretary Laisa Alamia said the food packs are currently with the region’s Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) office awaiting go signal from Regional WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
Governor Mujiv Hataman for delivery. “The food packs are on standby pending orders from the governor,” Alamia said. DSWD-ARMM Secretary Pombaen Kader said an additional 1,500 other
9
food packs are currently being readied by her office staff should the need for its distribution may arise. Early this week, the ARMM has sent an initial 2,000 food packs to Zamboanga, which have been distributed to various evacuation centers in the area. Though not part of ARMM, constituents from the ARMM islandprovinces of Sulu, Basilan and Tawitawi frequent Zamboanga City for banking and trading transactions. “We are doing this (relief mission) to express our oneness with the Zamboanga people during times like this,� Alamia said. Hataman is currently in Zamboanga City coordinating with concerned
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
government agencies and Muslim religious leaders for the swift resolution of a standoff between government forces and rogue Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) members who are currently holed in five villages of the locality. The standoff entered its third day on Wednesday with the MNLF faction refusing to leave the city unless ordered by Nur Misuari whom they recognize as their supreme leader. Misuari, founding chair of the MNLF, prior to the bolting out in 2001 by a group of comrades to form the MNLF Executive Council of 15, has recently declared secession in certain parts of Mindanao for the establishment of a Bangsamoro state.
10
Greenpeace calls on a stop on overfishing to secure livelihood of fishermen By: Catherine T. Apelacio GENERAL SANTOS CITY--- Environmental group Greenpeace has urged the government to design an effective measure to stop overfishing in the Philippines.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
11
Mark Dia, regional oceans campaigner for Greenpeace Southeast Asia said the Philippine government should secure the livelihood of its fisherfolk constituents by ensuring the sustainability in our seas.” “The Philippines should instead work more closely with the rest of the Pacific region and help put in place strong science based management measures that can help stop overfishing’’ he told media at a Saturday’s press briefing here stressing that with appropriate measures in place the tuna fisheries can continue. The press briefing was held in time with the celebration of the General Santos City’s 15th Tuna Festival and 45th Charter Anniversary. Greenpeace said the livelihood of the fisherfolk in the country especially the sustainable tuna fishing is being threatened by overfishing, which results in fish stock dwindling. Backed by General Santos City Alliance of Tuna Handliners, spokesperson Raul Gonzales echoed Greenpeace’s stance about the present condition of the country’s fishing business saying the “unsustainable fishing practices” jeopardize the future of the entire industry. “Our livelihoods are already threatened,” he underscored. Gonzales lamented that with the current situation “the hook and line tuna industry is being sacrificed for canned tuna” calling on big tuna WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
catchers like large-scale purse seiners to avoid catching juvenile or baby tuna and not overdo their catch. According to him, the government must “act now to ensure that juvenile tuna catches in the purse seine fisheries are reduced. Urgent reduction in excess purse seine fishing capacity must also be implemented.” He said that because of the high demand in purse seine fishing, the longline and handline tuna industry are very much affected by the effect of decreasing fish stocks. In General Santos City, Tuna stocks, Gonzales affirmed, are getting smaller and harder to come by much more get caught. But Dia said the problem lies in the methods of fishing with purse seine as it uses the Fish Aggregating Devices (FAD) that catch without exception even juvenile tuna. This, he explained is the reason for the decline in fish stocks. Greenpeace cited that there are four main tuna species, namely, skipjack, yellowfin, bigeye, and albacore. Of these four, bigeye tuna is in need of “urgent management action” as it is experiencing overfishing while the yellowfin stock is fully exploited and is currently in declines. Dia said that unless appropriate measure is taken and adopted, there will be a continuous massive decline in fish stocks which will leave fishermen in the country with no livelihood at all.
12
Technically, Dia further explained that a yellowfin tuna will need at least two years to mature and reach 107 cm while the bigeye tuna needs also same years to reach 100 cm. With this then, he reiterated that “FAD use with purse seine is simply unsustainable and needs to be restricted/managed and ultimately banned across the region urgently.” Meanwhile, Sari Tolvanen, oceans campaigner for Greenpeace International said that “strong action to stop overfishing and overcapacity in the fleets,” is what really at stake at this time. She stressed that a “precautionary approach” must be adopted immediately to address the problem “before it is too late.” “Fishing companies as well as coastal communities will suffer huge losses as the stocks decline and fleets will be forced to move elsewhere,” she articulated. Dia also said that instead of continuously trying to seek exceptions to conservation measures and pursue new fishing grounds to increase tuna catches, the government should redirect its effort to support the tuna industry by
improving existing fishing methods and propping up the sustainable ones in catching tuna. Greenpeace urged government then to “do its share in tuna conservation this December at the WCPFC meeting and not negotiate short sighted exemptions on reducing FAD use.” WCPFC stands for Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, an international fisheries agreement that “seeks to ensure, through effective management, the long-term conservation and sustainable use of highly migratory fish stocks (tunas, billfish, marlin) in the western and central Pacific Ocean.” The commission specifically addresses “the problems in the management of high seas fisheries resulting from unregulated fishing, over-capitalization, excessive fleet capacity, vessel re-flagging to escape controls, insufficiently selective gear, unreliable databases and insufficient multilateral cooperation in respect to conservation and management of highly migratory fish stocks.” (CT Apelacio/PIA-12 General Santos City)
DRRM summit in Soccsksargen to spell out responsibilities of local chiefs by Danilo E. Doguiles
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Everything is set
for Soccsksargen Region’s first disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) summit specifically for local chief executives in nearby General Santos that begins today, September 11. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
13
Expected to join in the two-day event are Soccsksargen’s four governors, five city mayors and 45 municipal mayors who also serve as chairs of their respective DRRM councils. “We hope the local chief executives would heed our invitation for them to gain better understanding of their roles and responsibilities with regard to DRRM as well as in the implementation of R.A. (Republic Act) 10121,” Jerome Barranco, OIC regional director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) 12 said his message to the LCEs. R.A. 10121 is also known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010. The summit, he explained, “would help local officials understand the measures that would protect their respective constituents from disasters, as well as be clarified on what is a DRRM plan, a DRRM office, and a contingency plan, among others.” The summit would also explain what is an incident command system and other very important concerns that that would strengthen the local government’s capability in disaster preparation, response and management. “Although the summit is set only for two days, this would give you comprehensive knowledge on your role as chairs of your local DRRM,” he told the local chiefs. According to a summit WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
briefer that OCD 12 sent to Philippine Information Agency 12, discussions would cover topics from disaster preparation and mitigation to disaster response and management. For preparation and mitigation, experts will discuss early warning systems such as earthquake and tsunami alert systems, public storm warning signals, and DOST’s Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) as well as hazard assessment using hydromet and geo-hazard maps. Other resources persons will also discuss mainstreaming of climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction into the local government’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan, health hazards, socio-political and security risks, and civil disturbance. LCEs will also be taught how to set up incident command system, conduct rapid damage assessment and needs analysis and manage evacuation centers as well as implement rehabilitation and recovery programs. Several regional chiefs of national government agencies in the region have also been invited to shed light into some concerns such as allocation and utilization of local DRRM funds, establishment of DRRM office and filling of plantilla positions, and roles and responsibilities of governors and mayors in the DRRM.
14
The activity will be capped with the signing of the “Declaration of Commitment to DRRM Action” by the local chief executives of Soccsksargen Region. Soccsksargen Region is comprised of the provinces of South Cotabato,
North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani as well as the cities of Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan, General Santos, and Cotabato and 45 municipalities. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)
Two senior citizens associations in S. Kudarat elect new set of officers by Shahana Joy E. Duerme
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato—Two senior citizens associations in Sultan Kudarat, namely: Sultan Kudarat Federation of Senior Citizen’s Association (SUKUFESCA) and Senior Citizen Officers Head of Association (SCOHA) recently elected new sets of officers who will further work for the benefit of the elderly. Under SUKUFESCA, new officers are the following: Ninfa T. Isla as the president, Conchita G. Guerrero as vice-president, Ludivico Aradanas as secretary, and Francisco Selga as assistant secretary. Meanwhile, Edith P. Retirado was elected as treasurer, Norma C. Gevieso and Fe H. Castillo as auditors, Emiliana V. Castillo as social manager, and Vicente R. Calderon, Sr. as public information officer. On the other hand, under SCOHA, elected officials include: Placido L. Castillo as president; Conchita G. Guerrero as vice president; Vicente R. Calderon, Sr. as secretary; Vivencia L. Ligo as treasurer; Bienvenido V. Tan as auditor; Lerna G. Brillantes as social manager and Flora A. Abriam as the Public Information Officer. The new set of officers were elected by over 30 senior citizens who are members of the SUKUFESCA and heads WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
of the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) from the municipalities and city in the province. The newly-elected officers were thankful for the trust given to them by their fellow senior citizens. Further, they vowed to be of service to the elderly. SUKUFESCA president Ninfa T. Isla said that with the leadership of the new senior citizen associations’ officials, programs and projects with regards to uplifting senior citizens in Sultan Kudarat will be strengthened. Meanwhile, Isla extended her appreciation to Sultan Kudarat Gov. Suharto T. Mangudadatu, for giving multicabs to senior citizens associations in the towns of Lambayong, Esperanza, Columbio, Lebak, President Quirino and to the city of Tacurong. (SJDuerme-PIA12/ JAujero-PPDO-SK)
15
Butuan City gov’t celebrates 2nd anniv of its Clean Ground Zero Waste Movement by Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY -- The city government here will be celebrating the second anniversary of its Clean Ground Zero Waste Movement on September 11, 2013 with a program and awarding ceremony at the city hall grounds.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
16
During the program, City Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr, together with Zita Duran, English Department head of Agusan National High School (ANHS) will be presenting the members of the Youth for Environment in Schools (YES) for Zero Waste Butuan, who has been active in environmental activities in their respective schools. As chair of the Committee on Environment, city councilor Dr. Virgilio Nery Jr. will deliver his message and share updates on the ongoing committee activities. Mayor Amante will hand-over the plaques and certificates for the Best Barangay Implementors; Best Regional Line Agencies; Best City Hall Office Implementors; Best School Implementers and participating schools. The YES-Zero Waste Butuan Volunteers will also WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
be
awarded with bar pins. Awardees will then take their oaths as pledge of commitment to be led by the chairman of the Committee on Education, Science and Technology Ramon Carampatana. Moreover, parade of gowns made out of recycled materials will be held at the same venue by the selected ANHS students. The CGWZ Movement/ Program is aimed to facilitate a social transformation processes among residents to manifest the desired behavior of segregating waste at source, cleaning the surroundings and converting wastes into money; and massive conversion of waste into organic fertilizers (biodegradables) by the organic fertilizer production facilities and useful materials (non-biodegradables).
17
KBP Butuan members unite for the Urban Greening activity by Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY -- Members of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkasters ng Pilipinas (KBP) Butuan City Chapter from different radio stations, together with various sectors, re-united during a tree planting activity dubbed, “Urban Greening” held recently in Barangay Masao. The event is also in partnership with the barangay officials, Department of the Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the local government unit here. Some 250 KBP members with partners participated in the “hataw exercise” and tree planting activity. KBP
Butuan
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
City
President and dxMB-Love Radio Station Manager Israel Palero said the tree planting activity is conducted simultaneously by the KBP chapters nationwide. “Despite the busy schedule of our partner-media in the field, we are here united and sharing the concern for our environment. Let’s sustain life… let’s plant more trees,” said Palero. Moreover, street children Chapter being taken-cared of by the city
18
government and the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) also participated during the activity, accompanied by city councilor Atty. Rema Burdeos and BCPO deputy police director PSupt Romy Palgue. In October last year, the WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
chapter also conducted similar activity in Mount Mayapay, Barangay Bonbon, this city. The “Oplan Broadcastreeing� is in support to the National Greening Program (NGP), a priority program of President Benigno S. Aquino III.
19
Fruit seedlings ready for Siargao ‘greening’ by Eugenio Lira, Jr
SURIGAO CITY-- More than 14,000 pieces of various fruit seedlings arrived on Tuesday, September 10, for subsequent distribution to recipient towns for the ‘greening’ of Siargao Island. Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Zaldy Perater said the fruit seedlings will be distributed to eight municipalities comprising Siargao Island, namely, Dapa, Socorro, Del Carmen, San Benito, Pilar, Burgos, San Isidro and Santa Monica, in line with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ National Greening Program (NGP) and the provincial government’s thrust in providing alternative livelihood activities for indigent families. “This is the first batch of three batches of fruit seedlings ready for distribution to eight towns of Siargao Island. We have four varieties, namely, mangosteen, jackfruit, lanzones and guyabano. Once fully grown, these fruit trees can also help enhance the island’s forest stock to absorb carbon dioxide which is largely blamed for global warming,” Perater said. He said the National Greening Program (NGP) was launched in 2011 by virtue of Executive Order No. 26 issued by President Benigno Aquino III as it targeted to grow 1.5 billion trees in 1.5 million hectares nationwide within a period of six years, from 2011 to 2006. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
“Aside from livelihood purposes, NGP is a climate change mitigation strategy through reforestation. We’re glad the provincial government is very receptive and has identified Siargao Island as our pilot area,” Perater stressed. Governor Sol Matugas said that aside from livelihood purposes, the fruit seedlings will be planted as part of the beautification program and landmark of every town in Siargao in line with her administration’s initiative to promote the island as one of the major tourism destinations in Asia. “These fruit seedlings will be planted on the roadsides and each town would only choose one kind of variety they want to grow and they want to be identified with. It’s just like the OTOP or ‘One Town, One Product’ program which the provincial government is promoting as part of our livelihood and tourism campaigns,” the governor concluded. Perater has turned-over the fruit seedlings to Siargao community environment officer Iñigo Collantes. He was assisted by forest ranger Almond Edera and environment officer Lopercio Bentoso.
20
Dominga Mallonga DOST-Caraga Regional Director
for more details visit us DOST National Website: http://www.dost.gov.ph DOST Caraga Website: http://caraga.dost.gov.ph
This is a free Ad
For more Details Visit us: DOST National Website: http://www.dost.gov.ph DOST Caraga Website: http://caraga.dost.gov.ph
DOE conducts Multi Sectoral Advocacy on Downstream Oil Industry in CdeO by Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Energy (DOE) through its Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) in collaboration with the Philippine Information Agency will conduct a Multi Sectoral Advocacy on Downstream Oil Industry on September 12, Thursday at the Dynasty Court Hotel here.
As part of OIMB’s advocacy Oil Industry (DOI) was initiatives, the Multi-Sectoral conceptualized in order to create Advocacy Campaign on Downstream and capacitate a critical mass of
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
28
communicators/media practitioners that would serve as conduits in disseminating the benefits and developments in the industry. In order to maximize the campaign, other DOI stakeholders are invited such as, Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of Product Standards, Department of the Interior and Local GovernmentBureau of Fire Protection, Local Government Units, Liquid Petroleum Products (LPP) retailers and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) dealers. The campaign was launched in
Palawan and replicated in nine cities/municipalities in 2012. Following the successful conduct of these activities and the positive feedback it has created among the various stakeholders, DOE will replicate the same in Misamis Oriental. The topics to be discussed include the Overview on the Downstream Oil Industry, LPG Industry Regulatory Framework, Retail Rules, Metrology and Basic Principles on the Sealing and Calibration of a Dispensing Pump.
DTI warns public anew vs. mislabeled Christmas decors, unsafe products by Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy
MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – As consumers bargain for Christmas decors and products with the start of the “ber” months this September, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here urged the buying public to be watchful and nosy of mislabeled products, to assure quality and safe use, so that they really get the best value for their money. DTI Bukidnon Provincial Director Ermedio Abang in a statement warns consumers not to rush into buying fake or imitation products that are cheap. “Consumers must check the labels such as the brand or trade mark, name and address of manufacturer, country of WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
manufacture, net quantity, and toxicity warnings, if applicable,” Abang said. He also stressed that under the Consumer Act of the Philippines, the manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers are liable to consumers for injuries caused by defective and unsafe products as
29
well as for the insufficient or inadequate information on the use of certain products and the hazards they pose. “As provided in Republic Act 7394, those found not conforming to the minimum labeling and packaging requirements face
administrative charges. Criminal penalties include a fine of not less than P500 but not more than P20,000 or imprisonment of not less than three (3) months but not more than two (2) years per violation,” Abang said.
Construction of new roads going to remote tourist destinations safe by Jorie C. Valcorza
MAMBAJAO, CAMIGUIN - Camiguin Provincial Tourism Officer Candice Naome Dael reiterated that new roads built going to remote tourist areas in the Island will cause no harm to adjacent forests.
The province is currently undertaking three major road infrastructure projects, connecting secluded tourist destinations like the Tuasan and Binangawan (rainbowed) falls to the major highway, and one cross country road project from Mainit Catarman to Sitio Itum, Barangay Baylao in Mambajao. Dael clarified that they are keeping these areas as eco-tourism zones and have already taken necessary steps in passing an ordinance that prohibits activities which can endanger and destroy the forests and the wildlife resources. “These roads are perfect for biking and hiking activities, a beautiful sight of the forest awaits
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
visiting tourist who wish to take the cross country road trip,” she said. Provincial Planning and Development Officer, Felicisimo M. Gomez, meanwhile, added that they have undertaken close coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR) prior to the implementation of the project. “In Bingawan Falls, we even opted to construct pathways nearing the falls as the DENR has permitted the construction of roads,” he explained. To date, the road project near Tuasan Falls was already completed, while the two other are expected to be completed within the year.
30
City assures orderly distribution of relief goods
by Noemi B. Edaga
ZAMBOANGA CITY - The number of evacuees now housed at the Juaquin Enriquez Jr. Memorial Grandstand is overwhelming, prompting the city officials to strategize in the distribution of relief goods to spare the evacuees from unnecessary long queues.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
31
City councilor Josephine Pareja of this city’s first district said in an interview she was assigned to handle food distribution today. She earlier met with the DSWD team to plan out and ensure orderly distribution of food ration. She said smooth and orderly distribution of goods can be expected today, after assessing the food delivery system during the first two days which was found wanting. “Now we have crafted a system in which the distribution of food ration will be made by barangays and special lanes are also designated for women, children and the elderly,” she added. Portable toilets will WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
also be installed in the area. Pressed for her reaction to complaints hurled by the evacuees against city officials, Pareja appealed for their patience and understanding, as” the city officials are doing their best to respond to this crisis.” She also asked the evacuees to help in keeping the grandstand clean. To date, evacuees come from eight affected barangays, namely, Rio Hondo, Sta Barbara, Arena Blanco, Lustre, Mariki, Mampang, Zone 4, and Talon-talon.
32
CMC urges business establishments to open by Michael Vincent D. Cajulao
ZAMBOANGA CITY - Crisis Management Council (CMC) Chair Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said they requested some business establishments to open so the public could buy foods and basic necessities. “We’re requesting business establishments to include groceries, pharmacies, and gasoline stations away from the so-called areas of concern to open this afternoon to allow the people to purchase their daily provisions”, Mayor Climaco said during the media briefing yesterday. Businesses closed shops since Monday after a gun battle between the government troops and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) men under Nur Misuari broke early dawn in barangays Sta. Barbara, Sta. Catalina, and Talon-Talon. People rushed to Guiwan and Sta. Cruz public markets, considerably far from the areas of concern, bringing with them vehicles to buy a good amount of provisions that they hope would last until the crisis would be over. People were also seen lining up outside two local pharmacies with convenience stores along Guiwan WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
highway as early as 7:30 a.m. as almost all stores were closed. Motorists also flocked to some gasoline stations here to make sure that they have fuel to use during emergencies. Meanwhile, the Bankers Association of Zamboanga also suspended bank transactions since Monday. However, customers can still access some ATM machines. People have also been lining at ATM machines to withdraw cash. Mayor Climaco-Salazar expressed optimism that the business sector would take heed of her appeal for the sake of the general public. Although all business establishments located in the heart of the city are closed, a few which are located away from the areas of concern are open. “But a problem may arise if people resort to panic buying, thus, the CMC is requesting them (store owners) to open shops,” said the CMC chair.
33
DSWD says there are enough food, supplies for Zambo evacuees by Dominic I. Sanchez
ZAMBOANGA CITY - As the skirmishes here between the Moro National Liberation Front and Government forces continue and more people are fleeing their homes for evacuation centers established in different points in the city, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Juliano-Soliman has assured that relief food and supplies are sufficient, and that “more are on their way to Zamboanga City.” “Five thousand family packs are on their way from Cagayan de Oro, Butuan and Davao DSWD field offices, as well as big tents,” Secretary Soliman told the media in a press briefing held at City Hall at 1:00 p.m. today. In addition, Secretary Soliman said that there are incoming mats, water jugs, portalets and other goods amounting to P27 million, courtesy of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
The United Nations’ World Food Program and other non-government agencies will also provide food supplements for the lactating mothers in the evacuation centers and additional tents. “We have adequate resources to cater to the needs of the evacuees. In addition to external resources, the people of Zamboanga who are not affected with the conflict are continuously sharing their resources for the displaced persons, including
34
the business community, the restaurants and private individuals,� Secretary Soliman said. Aside from the food and other supplies, students from local schools and universities including the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) and others have volunteered to serve the evacuees by repacking the goods and other means. Latest statistics reveals that a total of 14,269 individuals or 2,990 families have moved to the evacuation centers and 8,358 individuals are now at the Joaquin Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex. As of this writing (3:00p.mm), government forces are pursuing the fleeing armed MNLF members. Radio reports revealed that the exchange of gunfire has reached the city proper, particularly in Barangay Canelar. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
Residents are very much alarmed and panicked over the situation since the shootings have been persistent for three consecutive days now. Meanwhile, Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas reiterated that the government is on top of the situation. He said that the Armed Forces are maintaining a nonaggressive, more defensive strategy in dealing with the situation.
35
Residents in Lanao del Sur receive relief goods from ARMM govt by: Apipa P. Bagumbaran
A
round 1,000 residents in the province received relief goods from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) government on Saturday, August 31.
Spearheaded by Office of Regional and in Brgy. Tuca, this city. Vice-Governor, the distribution of Each of the beneficiaries received relief goods was held in Ganassi town three kilos of rice, two cans of WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
36
sardines, two cans of corned beef and packs of noodles. ARMM Vice-Governor Haroun Alrashid Lucman Jr. said the distribution of relief goods is one of their strategies to alleviate poverty in the region. also a need to go to the ground and “Relief goods are not only for those affected by disasters, there is provide basic services to the poor,� he said. Lucman is also the concurrent secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DWSD) in ARMM. Aside from the relief goods, the Department of Health (DOH) in the region also provided free medical services like consultation and vaccination, free circumcision and haircut during the event.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
37
Agriculture office distributes farm animals to farmers’ coops in Lanao del Sur by: Apipa P. Bagumbaran
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur - The Provincial Office of the Department of Agriculture (DA) distributed eight carabaos and 60 goats to identified farmers cooperatives and associations in the province.
The animal distribution last August 23 was part of the Agri Pinoy Livestock Program of the department to help farmers in the area to be more competitive, said Daud M. Diapar, chief livestock coordinator of DALanao del Sur. He said the carabaos will be used by the beneficiaries in their farm work while the goats will be utilized for milk production in their respective WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
barangays in support to the Kambingan at Gatas sa Barangay program. Recipients of the carabaos were Inungka Islamic Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) in Tubaran town, Micolabo-SCFO MPC in Picong, Ilian-Salipongan Integrated Farmers MPC in Taraka, Catogonan Farmers Association in Buadi-puso Buntong, Ilian Farmers
38
Assocciation in Pagayawan, Tadman Farmers Producer Cooperative in Bubong, Maguing Farmers Marketing Cooperative in Maguing, and Tamlang Producer Cooperative in Pualas town. The goats, on the other hand, were distributed to Modern Farmers MPC in Ganassi, Mandara R.R. MPC in Ditsaan-Ramain, Kapai Farmers MPC in Kapai, Sugod Farmers Association in Madalum, Rinabor Farmers Association in Bayang, Rainbow Farmers Association in Pagayawan, Kadingilan Farmers Marketing Cooperative in Madamba, Macaorandig Farmers Association in WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
Malabang, and Rockland Agrifarm Producer Cooperative in Balindong. Diapar also said the DA provincial office is planning to distribute four cattles, four carabaos, 120 goats and 180 native chickens next year to other cooperatives and associations who were not included in the distribution this year. Aside from animal distribution, Diapar said the Agri Pinoy Livestock program also include animal treatment, artificial insemination, anti-rabbies vaccination, and seminars and trainings in the different municipalities.
39
PHOTO GALLERY
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman joins the Ulamas (Islamic leaders) in a consultation Tuesday inside ARMM compound that resulted in the creation of an Ad-Hoc body that aims to institutionalize the Regional Darul Ifta (RDI). Hataman said the creation of RDI is mandated by the RA 9054. With the regional governor Hataman are regional Madaris chief Professor Alzad Sattar (2nd from left) and Abuhuraira Udasan, Darul Ifta representative from Maguindanao province (5th from left). (BPIARMM/JoHenry) THE ARMM’S BIG 3: ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman (right), regional vice governor Haroun Al Rasheed Lucman (center) and the region’s Executive Secretary Atty Laisa Alamia (left) during the Sabah Crisis Management Committee meeting on Wednesday, September 4, 2013 at the ORG Conference Hall inside the ARMM compound. Hataman said that the regional government is set to send an ARMM mission team to Sabah, Malaysia to look into the flight of the Filipino Muslims following the conflict that displaced a number of Filipinos there. (BPI-ARMM/JoHenry)
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
40
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman (middle) talks with leaders from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) during a consultation inside the Office of the Regional Governor on Wednesday September 4, 2013. The discussion centered on the implementation of the C2C or the Camps to Communities project under the PAMANA or the Payapa Masaganang Pamayanan Program of the National government for 2014 for the MNLF communities in the region. The ARMM leadership has started implementing PAMANA-ARMM in 2013 with a budget of 1.4 billion pesos and 2.6 billion pesos for 2014. PAMANA-ARMM includes projects that will primarily address the welfare of the Bangsamoro people in the region.(BPI-ARMM/JoHenry)
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
41
Agric sector takes center stage in the Davao Trade Expo 2013 DAVAO CITY-The farmers, farm products and best farming practices will take center stage in the forthcoming Davao Trade Expo 2013 slated on October 17-19 at the SMX Davao Convention Center in SM Lanang Premier. Architect Agatha Salanatin-Valencia, chair of the DATE 2013 told reporters that the Davao Trade Expo this year will bring a new opportunity for the agriculture sector to produce high quality yield by giving assistance on the agricultural products namely cacao, coconut, coffee, corn and cassava. Speaking at the Club 888 Forum at the Marco Polo Hotel, she said these crops are in demand both in the domestic and international WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
42
markets. “This event shall highlight the golden crops conference covering namely, cacao, coconut, coffee, corn and cassava, agri-trade exhibition, business matching, technical seminars, networking night, agrieco tours, and a culinary competition which will bring together global and national speakers and specialists who will provide essential ideas, best practices and updates on agricultural standards, emerging markets and build business relationships among the members of the agricultural sector,” Salanatin-Valencia said. She also observed that despite its great potentials, the current supply of these products is inadequate to support the demand. Salanatin-Valencia cited the need to generate more awareness of these products particularly enhancing their global requirements and sufficiency.
She said that in order to make the activity more relevant, a farm-to electronic portal will be launched during the trade expo which will be accessible to the farmers, particularly in answering their concerns and challenges like expensive farm inputs. “This is the action we are taking, to get the attention of other businessmen and government,” Salanatin-Valencia said. John Carlo Tria, DATE 2013 events and program head said the farm-to-electronic portal will serve as a platform where the farmer will know where to buy cheaper farm inputs since the information highway is already accessible even through the cellular phones. “Adequate information will surely empower the farmers,” he said. (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)
facts and figures
14
number of three-termer municipal councilors in Compostela Valley provincewho received Philippine Councilor’s League rings from Governor Arturo T. Uy
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
43
ComVal readies for energization of its sitios
COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE---Compostela Valley Governor Governor Arturo T. Uy during the employees convocation program of the provincial government on September 9, 2013 reported his recent travel in Manila together with Sangguniang Panglungsod Member Macario Humol for an Energy Forum on September 6 at the Heritage Hotel.
After the forum, a meeting was also held together with DOE Sec. Carlos Jericho L. Petilla and NEA Administrator Editha S. Bueno who revealed their plans for a
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
full blast energization of the sitios in different places. Sitio Electrification and Barangay Line Enhancement Program is one of the prioriy projects under President Benigno S. Aquino III to provide Filipinos with access to energy. With this Governor Uy will soon meet the Barangay Captains of the province’s eleven municipalities to inform them this good news for local leaders’ cooperation is much needed also during the program implementation. He also added that DOE Sec. Petilla also told them that there’s a big possibility for Mindanao to experience abundance of Power Supply by 2016. (grace almedilla/ gilbert m. cabahug, ids-comval)
44