PIA6 iBALITA Volume 2 Issue No. 22

Bago City Softbelles triumph in Junior League Softball World Series

Bago City softbelles representing the Philippines and the Asia Pacific Region secured the championship title in the Junior League Softball World Series held in Kirkland, Washington, USA on August 6, 2023.

Dominating the seven other regions, the Bago City Junior League Softball team bagged the 2023 Junior League Softball World Series championship with the Philippine team composed of Ramon Torres National High School (RTNHS) softbelles, who lifted Asia Pacific Region to a 3-0 victory over Eastern Region during the finals match.

By Easter Anne Doza

Erica Arnaiz struck out 15 batters and Ann Dyana Buenafe recorded two runs batted in (RBIs) to lead the country past Connecticut.

The team swept into the finals after closing the doors for all other participating regions in this year’s world series.

These included District 9 Region (Washington) 19-0, Southeast Region (Florida) 4-1, Canada Region (Canada) 7-4, Central Region (Michigan) 100, West Region (Arizona) 4-0, and Southwest Region (Texas) 4-0.

This unbreakable streak with seven straight wins was a great comeback for the team after finishing third-place last year, the Bago City Information Office said in a facebook post.

Other members of the team are Icelle Tanaman, Ashley Ortiz, Froline Manalo, Cristine Jane Caracas, Daniela Bejos, Audrie Sarsona, Thereze Francine Fuentes, Mary Antoinette Sicapore, Nice Lobrido and Casandra Sumatra.

They were mentored by coaches Rolando Fuentes and Leo Dayot, and trainers Josie Sebunga → page 2

Photo courtesy of Bago City Government

and Sarah Caracas.

Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo, who was also with the team during the competition, said this was a historic day for Bago City.

For the first time, he said, the Bagonhon team was able to clinch the Junior League Softball World Series championship.

“Softball, a sport that is somehow new to us but with the determination, hard work and dedication of our team, has now become associated with our city after this world championship trophy courtesy of our team,” Yulo added.

The mayor also congratulated the Bago City Softball Girls “for a job well done and for the honor they brought to the city and the whole country.”

Yulo also acknowledged the coaching staff and the participation of Francis Fuentes who stepped up to be the team manager and head coach, and

the commitment of Rey Fuentes as team founder.

“I thank their parents and family for their relentless support of their children. The same goes to all Bagonhons who prayed for their success and most especially to the Filipino community here in Washington who came out to support our team,” he said.

Yulo already planned a grand welcome for the softbelles and their coaches.

“Our world champions deserve no less than a hero’s welcome when they arrive. I am honored to have been a witness to such a historic day,” Yulo added, hoping that this feat will inspire young Bagonhons to aim high and dream bigger. (EAD-PIA6 Negros Occidental)

S-PaSS team advances to Presidential Lingkod Bayan national tilt

By Liez’l Marie Lamasan-Ejeda

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- The core team of the Safe, Swift and Smart Passage or S-PaSS Travel Management System of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) 6 advances to the national finals of the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award.

S-PaSS is an online travel management system developed at the height of the CoViD-19 pandemic for travelers and local government units.

It also serves as a local mobility management system which replaces the use of pen-and-paper logbooks for visitors and personnel of public and private companies, schools, and other institutions.

As the regional winner, → page 3

Bago City Softbelles triumph...

Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo with coaches and the softbelles from Ramon Torres National High School in Bago City, Negros Occidental who competed in the Junior League Softball World Series. *(Bago City photo)

S-PaSS team advances...

the S-PASS team composing of DOST 6 regional Director Rowen Gelonga, DOST 6 Management Information Systems Unit Head Garry Balinon, and DOST 6 Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Unit Head Ryan Vilmor Dumpit will receive the award.

Engr. Gelonga, as the project leader, led the conceptualization, creation, implementation and monitoring of S-PaSS.

Mr. Balinon ensured the implementation, development and maintenance of the IT system as the head of system

development and administration.

Meanwhile, Mr. Dumpit handled the coordination and capacity-building activities with stakeholders as well as customer concerns as the project coordinator while also providing inputs on the S-PaSS user interface and operation.

To note, S-PaSS has been a huge support to the Philippine National Police (PNP) in guiding residents going to other LGUs in applying for travel documents when needed.

Further, it has helped the LGUs in monitoring travelers in their territories, and verify the authenticity of travel documents presented.

The Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award is conferred to an individual or group of five members for exceptional and extraordinary contributions resulting from an idea or performance that had a nationwide impact on public interest, security and patrimony. It is part of CSC’s 2023 Search for Outstanding Government Workers. (AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo/DOST 6)

NOCPPO, BCPO country’s best police units

By Lorenzo Lambatin, Jr.

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL (PIA) -- The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) and the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) made history for having been named the best Provincial Police Office and the best City Police units in the country.

Both the provincial and city police offices received the honors for the first time.

The province’s capital, Bacolod City, was proclaimed the Best City Police Office with a rating of 97.04% under the leadership of City Police Director Colonel Noel Aliño.

The NOCPPO picked up a rating of 92.33% at the helm of Provincial Police Director Colonel Leo Pamittan.

Pamittan and Aliño received the awards on August 8, 2023, at the office of the Philippine National Police (PNP) at Camp Crame, Quezon City during the PNP’s 122 Police Service Anniversary.

The PNP national office considered NOCPPO’s accomplishments in the administrative field, internal cleansing activities, or its efforts in instilling discipline among its personnel and its notable accomplishments that contributed to the general peace and

order situation in Negros Occidental.

It also considered awards the office received from the PNP, government agencies, Non-Government Organizations, and other prestigious award-giving bodies- local and national, among others.

Negros Occ. Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson hailed NOCPPO Director Pamittan for the recognition that shows a good performance.

Pamittan assumed the position of Negros Occ.’s provincial police director on January 2022.

Meanwhile, Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez expressed elation over the Bacolod City Police Office’s (BCPO) achievement that placed them on top among other worthy contenders for the award.

Aliño credited the award to the BCPO personnel’s teamwork displayed, the community, and its partners.

He said the recognition reflects the desire of BCPO to create change in Bacolod City.

Aliño took the helm as Bacolod City’s police director last April 18, 2023. → page 4

Photo courtesy of Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) PIO

NOCPPO, BCPO country’s...

Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Director Frank Carbon welcomes the twin victory of the province and Bacolod City as this

is a proof that the Occidental side of Negros Island is peaceful.

“The awards will improve the

attractiveness of the Negros Occidental and Bacolod City for investors to come in,” he said. (AAL/Lljr/PIA 6 Negros Occidental)

Gov’t forces preps up for BSKE 2023

By April Grace Padilla

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- Security forces here have commenced the preparations for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) scheduled on Oct. 30 this year.

In a small group meeting held earlier this month, the 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division of the Philippine Army (PA), together with the Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 and Coast Guard District Western Visayas (CGDWV), convened to coordinate and strategize measures to be carried out in ensuring public’s safety amid the upcoming elections.

During the meeting, the PRO 6 presented the key aspects of the security situation in the region.

This was then supported with the shared insights of Captain Randy Besa of the PA’s 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division pertaining to the Panay Island’s threat and security situation.

Additionally, PCol. Elmer B. Cinco updated the attendees on Election Areas of Concern, while PCol. Gilbert Gorero elaborated on the security preparations particularly tailored for the BSKE 2023.

The unit commanders and staff pooled out their expertise and resources in view of providing a safe environment for the citizens to exercise their right to vote, according to the PA’s news release.

The collaboration of these security forces also intends to ensure a smooth and secure electoral process during the BSKE 2023.

Among the officials present in the meeting were BGen. Michael G. Samson, Commander of the 301st

Infantry Brigade; PBGen. Sidney N. Villaflor, PRO 6 Regional Director; Commodore Arnaldo M. Lim, Commander of CGDWV; Col. Manolito F. Montiel, Deputy Brigade Commander of the 301st Infantry Brigade; and PCol. Joriz A Cantoria, Deputy Regional Director for Operations, together with the triad staff officers of PA’s 301st Infantry Brigade, PRO 6, and CGDWV. (AAL/AGP/ PIA 6 with reports from 301st Infantry Brigade of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army)

DILG: Barangay, SK officials must conduct inventory

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL (PIA) -- All incumbent Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials are told to conduct inventory and turnover properties, financial records, documents, and money accountabilities as well as create inventory teams and the City/ Municipal Assessment and Turnover Team.

By Easter Anne Doza

This is in view of the October 30 Barangay and SK Elections as provided in DILG Memo Circular No. 2023-047.

DILG provincial director Teodora Sumagaysay, during the PIA (Philippine Information Agency) Kapihan-Press Conference at the Negros Residences, said failure of these accountable

Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Officials to turn-over government properties under their possession or custody, will be held liable in accordance with the existing applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Punong Barangays, SK Chairpersons and the City/Municipal → page 5

Photo by 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division - Philippine Army

NEDA approves P8.48B ...

Mayors shall direct the creation of the Barangay Inventory Team (BIT), Sangguniang Kabataan Inventory Team (SKIT), and the City/Municipal Assessment and Transition Team and conduct the turnover ceremony by all outgoing officials to incoming officials.

Both the Barangay Inventory Team and the SK Inventory Team shall plan and conduct the formal turnover not later than November 17.

“The challenge for DILG and the authorities is really the turn-over of properties and documents as this becomes a perennial problem,” Sumagaysay said.

According to Sumagaysay, another challenge for DILG is after the assumption of office of newly elected Barangay and SK officials.

“One of the challenges is on how to educate and make the local Barangay and SK officials feel their roles and responsibilities. It is no joke to be elected in power, it is not just for the sake of furthering one’s own whims and

Antique holds peace summit, welcomes rebel returnees

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) -- The provincial government here, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), recently led a peace summit to bolster efforts in maintaining and securing peace, order, and safety throughout the province.

Held at Culasi Central School in Culasi town from August 3-4, the Provincial

Peace Summit 2023 intended to foster dialogue, collaboration, and solidarity among stakeholders and thereafter achieve lasting peace for shared growth and development.

With the theme “Bukas sa Baratyagon nga Pagbaton para sa Pagbag-o,” this year’s iteration of the peace summit intended to encourage the remaining

caprices but most importantly service to the people and sustainability of this passion for service,” Sumagaysay added. (AAL/EAD-PIA 6 Negros Occidental)

By Bernard Ceasar Susbilla

members of the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army (CPP- NPA) to finally return to the folds of the law.

In his message, BGen. Michael G. Samson, Commander of the 301st Infantry Bayanihan Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA), urged the rebels to abandon the armed struggle, restart their lives with the help of government interventions, and contribute to nationbuilding.

BGen. Samson then underscored the importance of inclusive and participatory governance in addressing the problem of communist armed conflict, while stressing the need for a synchronized approach in effectively dealing with emerging challenges.

Some 73 former rebels (FRs) from different municipalities attended the event and received different aid from national government agencies (NGAs), including P5,000 each from → page 6

Photo by 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division - Philippine Army

the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and P15,000 Pangkabuhayan Package to 20 identified FRs from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

The rebel returnees also received orientation on the different programs and services that they may avail from other NGAs such as the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Philippine

Health Insurance (PhilHealth), among others.

Further, provincial government offices like the Antique Provincial Health Office (APHO) distributed medicines, while the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) provided assorted seedlings.

Apart from peace talks and the distribution of different government assistance, a “Walk for Peace,” medical mission, organization of FRs, signing of peace commitment, and a “deradicalization” session by the

National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) were also held in the summit.

The peace summit forms part of the implementation of Executive Order (E.O.) No. 70, S. 2018 issued by former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte which seeks to promote a whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace in the country. (AGP/ BPS/PIA Antique/Courtesy of James Rubino and Antique PSWDO/Photo Credit: Philippine Army Spearhead Troopers)

Flex your breastfeeding photos, Aklan moms urged

By Venus Villanueva

and allow the public, especially among the would-be mothers, to further appreciate the benefits of breastfeeding.

“I always tell pregnant mothers and first-time moms that breastfeeding has a long-term health benefit for both the mother and the baby. It is nature’s way of giving the baby all the necessary nourishment for growth,” Gregorio said.

She also emphasized that breastmilk contains important nutrients, antibodies and enzymes that help strengthen the baby’s immune system, and protects them from infections and diseases.

KALIBO, Aklan (PIA) -- The Provincial Health Office (PHO) mounted a contest among Aklan’s exclusively breastfeeding mothers to drumbeat the celebration of Breastfeeding Month this August, highlighting its importance to health.

Winning breastfeeding photos, according to Estela Guia Gregorio, Provincial Nutrition Program Manager of PHO, must be unique ones that will best portray the 2023 Breastfeeding Month theme “Isulong Ang Ligtas at Malusog na Pagpapasuso Para sa Manggagawang Pilipina.”

Each participating mom must submit one photo entry only, which must be e-mailed to the PHO on or before the August 25 deadline.

The photos must not be in collage, with no effects, and unfiltered, Gregorio emphasized.

Winners in the breastfeeding contest will get P3,000.00 for first prize; P2,000.00, second prize; and P1,000.00 for the third prize.

This is the first time for the PHO to hold such contest. With this, Gregorio said that this activity will create awareness

“To the pregnant mothers, remember this message: breastfeeding is 90% determination and willingness and 10% breastmilk. This means before the mother delivers her baby, she is ready emotionally, mentally and physically so that her breastfeeding journey will be successful,” she added.

Meanwhile, aside from the photo contest, the PHO is also holding the “Inakeanong Tula” Writing Contest for the same celebration, to help encourage more mothers to breastfeed their babies. Winners will also get P3,000.00 for first prize; P2,000.00 for second prize; and P1,000.00 for third prize. (AGP/VGV/PIA Aklan)

Antique holds peace summit...

Photo courtesy of Aklan Information and Media Affairs Division

DSWD targets to complete over 1K KALAHI-CIDDS projects

By Lilibeth French

one project was also discussed during the review.

For the second semester of this year, Region 6 is expected to complete the 1,139 community projects amounting to Php1,171,741,870 which will benefit a large number of families living in the upland and island barangays.

The community projects include roads, hanging footbridges, and evacuation centers among others.

Aside from the completion of the projects, the targets include the disbursement of funds and the liquidation of all community grants.

Meanwhile, DSWD 6 Assistant Regional Director for Operations Arwin Razo commended the KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Program Management Office for the downloading of over P652 million in community grants for the implementation of 938 community projects from May to June this year.

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has put in place measures to hasten and ensure the completion of some 1,139 community projects in Western Visayas before the yearend.

DSWD 6 recently held a review of the implementation of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) program here which was attended by Deputy National Program Manager Augustus Lito Narag.

“We want to make important changes for the KALAHI-CIDSS,” said Narag during the program implementation review (PIR) as they have to address concerns that are within their control and those that are beyond their control like climate change, disaster, and

changing weather conditions in the implementation of the program.

Narag added that they have simplified the procurement process by purely embarking on Community-Based Procurement.

“We have shifted from RA 9184 to strictly Community-Based Procurement,” he said, citing the changes in the hiring process of the staff to work on the community projects and the inclusion of the local cash contribution of the KALAHI-CIDSS covered areas.

Narag said they are fulfilling their commitments to connect with the Regional Project Management Office (PMO) and Area Coordinating Team (ACT) and listen to their concerns.

The clustering of barangays to have

Razo said the joint effort of the ACT and Municipal Coordinating Team contributed to the delivery of the targets where the products of the program originate.

“It would be impossible for the DSWD management to achieve the targets for the end of the first semester without you,” said Razo.

He further said that the interaction during the program implementation review is a good mechanism to celebrate success, express gratitude and at the same time look back on the “things that impede along the way on the intent to achieve the desired results based on the cascaded deliverables.”

The PIR was participated in by members of the ACTs deployed across the region. (AAL/LAF/PIA6-Iloilo/ DSWD6 KALAH-CIDSS)

Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) Deputy National Program Manager Augustus Lito Narag (DSWD 6 KALAHI-CIDSS photo)

DTI cites local entreps’ role in global economy

By Pilar Mabaquiao

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) underscored the important role of local entrepreneurs in the global economy noting that Antique has more than a thousand micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) creating high quality products.

Governor Rhodora Cadiao, during the program at the Capitol Grounds, EBF Freedom Park here, lauded the endeavors of DTI for supporting small businesses in the province and for facilitating trade fairs and product showcases for them.

She also commended the endeavors of the Internal Audit Services Unit, Provincial Economic Enterprise Development Office and Provincial Cooperative Development Officeall are offices under the provincial government that reported their accomplishments during the program.

DTI Senior Trade-Industry Development Specialist Gevi Kristina O. SandoyVillafuerte reported the interventions of DTI in capacitating the MSMEs to become competitive in domestic and export markets.

DTI Antique is currently supporting 1,830 MSMEs, 1,533 of them are in the online market or have engaged in e-commerce and 75 are certified Barangay Micro Business Enterprise.

The MSMEs have participated in various training conducted by DTI so they become competent in financial management, online marketing, product labeling, costing and branding, resilient in their business and employing good manufacturing practices.

DTI headed by Provincial Director Mutya D. Eusores also reported that there are nine women entrepreneurs who graduated from Kapatid Mentor Me Program.

To engage more markets for these MSMEs, DTI also facilitated 11 product expos and trade fairs, of which 9 are locally held in municipalities during municipal celebrations, one for a provincial product showcase held in Robinsons Mall, and one regional

trade fair during the Western Visayas Cooperative EduBiz Forum at the University of Antique – Sibalom Main Campus.

DTI also supported the beneficiaries of Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program by giving them orientation on financial literacy and business continuity planning. These 95 PPG beneficiaries are families affected by Typhoon Paeng in 2022.

On business regulation, DTI continues to monitor business establishments to ensure they are compliant with Fair Trade Laws (FTL) as well as continued awareness-building activities on consumers’ rights and responsibilities. (AGP/PSM/PIA Antique with reports from GIP Interns)

DICT 6 still accepts PSC applications

ILOILO CITY (PIA) – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) 6 is still accepting applicants for the Philippine Startup Challenge (PSC) this year until September 15.

The PSC is an annual competition conducted by the DICT through its ICT Industry Development Bureau (IIDB)

By Edson Bañares

which aims to encourage the Filipino youth to create innovative ICT products and services that have potentials of becoming viable business ventures seen to help solve various societal issues.

The DICT as the lead agency under the RA 11337 or the Innovative Startup Act (ISA) is mandated to provide benefits

and programs to strengthen, promote, and develop the Philippine Startup Ecosystem.

Interested participants must gather a team of 3 students and 1 mentor from senior high school or college level, which is highly encouraged to have at least one female member. → page 9

Photo courtesy of Antique Provincial Information Office

DICT 6 still accepts...

Each team will compete for the Regional and National finals.

Application form for mentors are available at https://bit.ly/PSC8Mentors-R6 while application form for students/team members are available through this link: https://bit.ly/PSC8Students-R6.

Aside from the registration through the provided links, each team must also provide school clearance, a startup logo, a video pitch and a pitch deck in PDF format.

For the video pitch and pitch deck, contents must include problem description, target market segment, business model, solution, features, progress/traction and proposed used of funs/ask from investors.

For the mechanics, please click the lick: https://bit.ly/PSC8- Details and to know more, you may check the DICT

Region VI Facebook page or you may email iims.vc1@dict.gov.ph (AAL/EJB/ PIA6)

Guv unveils Iloilo’s new tourism slogan

ILOILO CITY (PIA6) – To further promote the tourism sector of the province which banks on food, culture, tourist spots, and its people, the Iloilo provincial government unveils its new tourism campaign slogan – “Fun, Foodie, Friendly Iloilo.”

Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. initially launched the said slogan during the

By John Noel E. Herrera

opening program of the Linggo ng Kabataan celebration on Thursday, August 10, 2023 as it is one of the right times to present the campaign, noting the influence and vital role of the youth sector in promoting the tourism industry of the province.

The governor said that the slogan symbolizes the qualities that Ilonggos

possess, which translates to the enjoyment and satisfaction that tourists will experience when visiting Iloilo.

He cited that the 1,763 fiestas and 43 festivals of the province, as well as the beautiful beaches, mountains, and other natural and historical sites in Iloilo will contribute to the fun, thrill and excitement that visitors will feel when going to the province.

More than the scenery, culture, and festivities, Ilonggos are also foodie in nature, noting that Iloilo stands out with its diverse gastronomy and delectable dishes that will satisfy the cravings of the tourists.

“Friendly kay halin sang una the best asset sang Filipino, especially in tourism is that we are hospitable. That is correct kay kita nga mga Ilonggo mabakod ktita mag-amoma sang mga tao. Amu na aton pwersa maayo kita mag-intinder sang mga tao,” Defensor added.

The governor explained → page 10

Photo courtesy of DICT Region VI

Photo courtesy of Iloilo Provincial Government

that the new tourism slogan is anchored to the province’s campaign towards development dubbed as “MorProGRess Iloilo” or “Movement for a Robust, Progressive and Globally

competitive and Resilient Province of Iloilo”, which will serve as a vehicle to achieve the province’s social justice agenda.

Previously, the province used the tagline “It has to be Iloilo” for its tourism slogan through an ordinance approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) in 2017. (AAL/JNH/PIA6 Iloilo)

DTI checks compliance of hardware stores to FTL

By Pilar Mabaquiao

compliance with standards, and enabling traceability.

All manufacturer’s logos embossed on the steel bars are approved by the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) and the list of approved logos is accessible on their website.

The team monitored 14 hardware stores, all of which were selling certified steel bars.

However, some of the establishments were unable to determine the correct bar size of rerolled steel bars based on the embossed symbols.

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) -- Antique recently conducted monitoring and inspections on certified steel bars in various hardware stores in Hamtic, Tobias Fornier, and Anini-y towns.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Antique Trade and Industry Development Specialist Arnel Oliveros said that this activity is part of the Consumer Protection Unit’s efforts to ensure compliance with fair trade laws (FTL) and standards.

During the inspections, the team verified the markings on the surface of the steel bars to determine their authenticity, quality, and properties.

Steel bar markings provide essential information including the manufacturer’s logo, grade, size, ductility class, and reinforcement type.

Oliveros emphasized that these markings play a crucial role in identifying the manufacturer, ensuring

To address this issue, the DTI trained the owners and managers on how to interpret the embossed markings on both rerolled and deformed steel bars and provided them with information related to certified steel bars.

Oliveros encouraged consumers, hardware stores, construction companies, and building contractors to look for these markings when purchasing steel products to ensure their reliability and safety. (AGP/PSM/ PIA Antique with reports from DTI)

SK fed urges Ilonggo youth to be ‘agents of change’

ILOILO CITY (PIA6) – Recognizing the role and impact that the younger generations can do for the community, the Panlalawigang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan (PPSK)-Iloilo, during the celebration of Linggo ng Kabataan 2023, has encouraged all the Ilonggo youth to be ‘agents of change’ towards a greener and sustainable

By John Noel E. Herrera

future.

During the opening program on Thursday, August 10, 2023, PPSKIloilo President and Ex-Officio Board Member Bianca Requinto-Espinosa highlighted the importance of providing the youth the opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge, noting that

these will contribute to the growth of the community.

“Gapati gid kami nga we [need] to invest for the youth’s growth as it is also an investment for our progress. By providing them the right opportunities, they will be the drivers of progress in the province of Iloilo. So sa → page 11

Guv unveils Iloilo’s new...

SK fed urges...

kabataang Ilonggos, let us take actions and be drivers of change,” RequintoEspinosa said.

Requinto-Espinosa added that this year’s celebration of Linggo ng Kabataan is anchored to the theme, “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World”, citing that the youth, having potential for long-term contribution to the green transition, must acquire knowledge, skills, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society.

Meanwhile, Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. said that while the youth is deemed as the hope of the future, their roles and contributions in the present time is more crucial.

“You are the future of the province but we don’t only want you in the future. We want you now,” Defensor stressed.

The governor encouraged them to engage in entrepreneurship and agriculture and become young farmers as the provincial government is in full support of the youth sector and they are looking forward to future collaboration with the young people.

“We want agriculture and food to be

the centerpiece of our tourism industry, and we want you there as young entrepreneurs and farmers kay kung di niyo na pagpanubli-on ang aton nga agriculture, it will become a sunset sector. Hindi kita gusto nga mag-abot ang tyempo nga wala na sang ni isa nga mangunguma. So, we want to give it a different treatment and we need you there,” Defensor said.

The PPSK-Iloilo, on the other hand, also prepared different activities for the weeklong celebration of Linggo ng Kabataan, which include film showing

of Emmy Award-winning documentary, Delikado; Search for Most Outstanding Youth Organization in Iloilo; Food and Music Festival; SK Awards Night; and Entrepreneurship Training and Startup Orientation, among others.

The PPSK-Iloilo also introduced the new Girl and Boy Officials for 2023 who will serve as the counterpart of the provincial officials from the governor down to the board members and will have a firsthand experience of the duties and responsibilities of public officials. (AAL/JNH/PIA6 Iloilo)

Belison town opens new public market

By Pilar Mabaquiao

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) -- The Municipality of Belison, Antique recently opened its new public market dubbed as the “Modern Agora” funded by the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK).

“We are proud to support the Municipality of Belison in establishing a hub for local economic development. LANDBANK likewise remains committed to helping farmers and fishers by putting up markets for their produce,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz. → page 12

PPSK-Iloilo President and Ex-Officio Board Member Bianca Requinto-Espinosa, during the opening program of Linggo ng Kabataan 2023, highlights the importance of providing the youth the opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge.

(Photo courtesy of Balita Halin Sa Kapitolyo)

Belison town opens...

In a press release, LANDBANK reported the loan assistance of P80 million for the Modern Agora infrastructure project, designed to be the first public market to look like a mall in the Province of Antique, with 124 stalls for meat, fish, vegetable, fruits, dry goods, and grocery produce.

To LANDBANK, this project is also their way of supporting local communities to recover from the negative impact of the pandemic, which affected the economy of the province and the town of Belison in particular, being the 5th class municipality.

The market is also expected to open new economic opportunities to more than 6,000 farmers in Belison and its neighboring municipalities of Patnongon and Sibalom.

Belison mayor Christopher H. Piccio and vice mayor Reynaldo E. Jacaba recently led the official opening of the Belison Public Market for vendors and residents, together with LANDBANK Senior Vice President Delma O. Bandiola and Antique Lending Center Head Engr. Roy C. Gonzaga, alongside the members of the Sangguniang Bayan and other local officials.

“Despite the fact that we are among the smallest municipalities in terms of area, population, and share of National Tax Allotment, we were able to access

a loan with LANDBANK to improve our town,” said Piccio.

He added that the LGU plans to further tap the services of LANDBANK for the Phase II development of the public market.

LANDBANK financed the public market under the RISE UP or the Restoration and Invigoration package for a Self-sufficient Economy towards UPgrowth for LGUs Lending Program, designed to help ensure the resilient and sustainable recovery of local economies from the pandemic.

The Bank has approved loans under the Program totaling P114.7 billion for 412 LGUs as of 30 June 2023.

Provincial, city, and municipal governments may borrow from LANDBANK to finance their development and innovative projects geared towards rebuilding their communities and local economies.

LANDBANK likewise remains the biggest development partner of the LGU sector, with a total of P97.5 billion in outstanding loans extended to LGUs nationwide as of end-June 2023.

LANDBANK is celebrating its 60th anniversary this month, representing six decades of uplifting lives, empowering communities, and serving the nation- all in pursuit of an inclusive and sustainable economy. (AGP/PSM/ PIA Antique with reports from LBP)

DA-BFAR 6-SAAD program staff upgrades docu, writing skills

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- Harmonizing the documentation process of the various activities and projects of the Department of Agriculture- Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DABFAR) 6, a skills enhancement training on documentation and writing was conducted recently.

A total of 27 DA-BFAR 6 personnel involved in the implementation of the Special Area for Agriculture

Development (SAAD) Program coming from the Provincial Fisheries Offices (PFOs) of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental, together with the Report and Information Officers of the Bureau, have undertaken lectures and handson exercises on the basics in news and feature writing, photojournalism, and photo and video editing.

“Through this workshop, I hope that

you will learn the value of storytelling to effectively communicate the projects and activities of BFAR 6. Our challenge is for you to be able to create stories worth-telling and translate them into inspiration,” said Richard Cordero, Officer-in-Charge of the Provincial Fishery Office Aklan in his opening speech.

Various platforms and channels used in documenting the programs, → page 13

By April Grace Padilla

Business name registration...

projects, and activities utilizing the DABFAR branding and guidelines were also presented during the four-day sessions.

To practice their newly-acquired skills, the participants visited two shellfish culture beneficiaries to document their experience with the project from the DA-BFAR 6.

“I hope that this training will bring new knowledge and further improve your skills in proper documentation and writing,” noted Jessica C. Esmao, Chief of the Regional Fisheries Training and Fisherfolk Coordination Division.

The activity forms part of the social preparation component of the Phase 2 of “SAAD,” a six-year program, which aims to alleviate poverty of

the marginalized sector by providing capacity building training and agrilivelihood projects to the fisherfolk.

(AAL/AGP/PIA 6 with reports from DABFAR 6)

More job opportunities for Iloilo City OSYs

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- Job generation for out-of-school youths in Iloilo City is underscored in the recent partnership of the Iloilo City Public Employment Services Office (PESO) and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through the JobStart Philippines Program.

JobStart enhances the employability of OSYs and at-risk youth by providing full-

By Liez’l Marie Lamasan-Ejeda

cycle employment facilitation through life skills training, technical training, and internship training with partner employers such as local companies and the Business process outsourcing (BPO) industry.

Among those who signed the Memorandum of Agreement were PESO Head Gabriel Felix Umadhay, DOLE VI Iloilo Field Office Officer-in-

Interested applicants must be Filipino city residents, 18–24 years old, have reached at least high school level, and unemployed at the time of application.

The requirements also include the submission of birth Certificate or any valid ID, school record, and a Barangay Certificate of Residency to PESO Office.

Qualified applicants will receive an allowance of not less than 75% of the minimum wage in the area for the total duration of their life skills and technical training while undergoing internship training with a company for three months.

Charge Amalia Judicpa; IQOR Iloilo Sourcing Manager Jan Rae Aguilos, Uy Group of Companies Representative Anelyn Aguillon, RJS Human Resources Corp. Administrative Officer Rodel Vasquez, and Carlos Bakeshop Representative Marevel Wuertas.

PESO Head Gabriel Felix Umadhay, meanwhile, said that PESO → page 14

Photo courtesy of DA-BFAR Region 6

Photo courtesy of Iloilo City Information Office

is working closely with the partner companies in providing more opportunities for the youth. The program’s implementation is also in

collaboration with the private sector, Technical Institute of Iloilo City (TIIC), Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education

(CHED), and other stakeholders.

Iloilo ARBs get machineries, train on organic farming

By Lilibeth French

Harvester, 4 units Handtractor with Trailer, 5 units Thresher, kag 1 unit Shredder.

On the other hand, just this August 4, a total of 34 agrarian reform beneficiaries from the village of San Fernando in Barotac Viejo town participated in the Training on Intercropping and Use of Simple Organic Ways of Farming cum Organic Fertilizer Preparation.

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Iloilo Provincial Office continuously helps farmers in this province improve productivity and eventually, their quality of life by providing them equitable and adequate support.

Recently, some P14 million worth of farm machineries were turned over by the agency to 8 agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) in Passi City under its Sustainable and Resilient Agrarian Reform Communities Project.

Mayor Stepehen Palmares and DAR Region 6 and Iloilo provincial offices

officials led by Regional Director Atty. Sheila B. Enciso led the turn over held recently.

Recipient ARBOs include Barangay Cabunga Sitio Lonoy Land Beneficiaries Association, Jaguimitan Agrarian Reform Cooperative, KASAPPI AR Cooperative, Panay Agrarian Reform Cooperative, Sitio Barren Green ARB Organization, Sitio Pulacan Agtabo ARB Organization, Sto. Tomas ARB Multi- Purpose Cooperative and United ARB Association.

They received 1 unit Hauling Truck, 1 unit Dump Truck, 1 unit Combine Harvester, 1 unit Corn Combine

The participants who are members of the San Fernando ARBOs were capacitated with knowledge on organic chicken raising, organic vegetable production, organic fertilizer production and organic concoction and extraction preparation.

According to DAR-Iloilo. by leveraging in this training, farmers will increase their capabilities in organic farming, agricultural production and institutionalize new modalities in agricultural practices.

The training was conducted by DAR-Iloilo through its Enterprise Development and Economic Support with Mr. Antonio Suñe, President of GRAD BARBA, and an NC II holder of Organic Agriculture Production as trainer. (AAL/LAF/PIA6-Iloilo/ DAR Iloilo)

DOH expands COVID-19 bivalent booster coverage

By Franz Remar Garion

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- Following the lifting of the State of Public Health Emergency in the country, the Department of Health (DOH) issued guidelines for expanding the inoculation of vulnerable populations with the COVID-19 bivalent vaccine.

In a press release, the DOH Western Visayas Center for Health Development explained that this move is pursuant to DOH Memorandum No. 2023-0256 which aims to vaccinate individuals aged 18 years old and above who belong to priority groups

A1 or healthcare workers, A2 or senior citizens, and A3 or adults with comorbidities, and their subgroups –A1.1 to A1.9 or the expanded A1, A2.1 and A2.2, and the expanded A3.

The issuance refers also → page 15

(AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo/Iloilo City Public Information Office)

Photo courtesy of DAR Iloilo Provincial Office

DOH expands COVID-19...

to the inoculation of the Bivalent Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine as either their first, second, or third booster with at least four to six months interval from their last COVID-19 vaccine dose.

In an online PIA Kapihan program, Dr. Jane Roches Juanico-Esteva, chief of the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU), noted that since the start of the COVID-19 vaccination rollout in 2021, there were a total of 5,563,304 fully vaccinated individuals or 98.31 percent of the region’s target population of 5,658,712, as of March 2023 DOH 6 data.

Meanwhile, a total of 1,026,485 individuals received their first booster dose or 18.33% and some 117,165 or 2.07% for the second booster dose.

On the other hand, with this bivalent COVID-19 vaccine, the region was provided with a total of 11,760 doses and since then, Dr. Juanico-Esteva reported that they were able to vaccinate 4,447 individuals of 37.81% of the said number of doses.

However, with the expansion of the rollout and considering the limited number of doses available in the region, the medical officer clarified

that they are now utilizing a phased approach to prioritize the healthcare workers, senior citizens, and the most vulnerable sectors.

Dr. Juanico-Esteva added that the remaining doses will be distributed to the various health facilities in the provinces and cities of the region.

Meanwhile, DOH 6 regional director Dr. Adriano P. Sub-an, in a press statement, cited that the pandemic has proven how essential vaccines are in

Sluggish rice cost slows down

By Lilibeth French

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- The drop in the price of rice in the province of Guimaras in July, according to Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) slowed down the food inflation to 4.0% from 6.9% in June 2023 and 11.9% in July 2022.

PSA Provincial Statistics Officer Nelida B. Losare said the PSA’s latest price statistics showed that rice prices in Guimaras recorded erratic trends for the past 13 months. From the lowest point of 0.6 percent in July 2022, rice value soared to 6.4 percent the following month and slowed to 2.0 percent in September, and back its way up to 5.5 percent in October. After

reducing deaths due to COVID-19.

“Vaccination remains to be the most important way in our collective efforts to fight this virus, and booster vaccines are essential in maintaining longterm immunity. As we approach this endemic phase, a better vaccination program with the continuing support of our partners and stakeholders is a key factor that would allow us to be on the right path towards a better and healthier Pilipinas,” he added. (AAL/FRG/PIA6)

Guimaras

which, the rice price trend slowed until January 2023 at 1.6 percent, however, its value swayed up again to 4.3 percent a month.

“A price drop was seen in March 2023 at 2.4 percent, before it continuously grew until 8.9 percent in May, the fastest rice inflation recorded in 2023. From then, the annual price indices of rice slowed down to 8.5 in June until 3.2 percent in July,” added Losare.

The data further showed that rice shared 45.9 percent of the 4.0 percent food inflation in July 2023, followed by Vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking

food inflation

bananas and pulses with 9.0 percent inflation, and Meat and other parts of slaughtered land animals with -3.1 percent inflation, which also showed a significant share of 19.4 and 18.1 percent, respectively, to the Guimaras food inflation.

Inflation rates of Fruits and nuts (5.3%); Sugar, confectionery, and desserts (20.0%); Milk, other dairy products, and eggs (9.9%); and Corn (8.6%) were the other food items that pulled down food inflation in July 2023 to a slower rate.

“Only four food items showed faster rate than the previous → page 16

LONG TERM IMMUNITY. Dr. Jane Roches Juanico-Esteva, chief of the Department of Health (DOH) 6 Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) cascades, during the PIA 6 online Kapihan program, the provision of DOH Memorandum No. 2023-0256 on the inucolation of COVID-19 bivalent vaccine as booster doses for target vulnerable sectors. (FRG/PIA 6 photo)

month’s level, these are Flour, Bread, and Other Bakery Products, Pasta Products, and Other Cereals with 6.1 percent inflation; Fish and other seafood with 1.4 percent inflation; Oils and fats with 16.0 percent inflation; and Ready-made food and other food products n.e.c. with 9.7 percent inflation,” Losare said.

The trends in food groups started at 11.9 percent in July 2022, then rose to 12.1 percent in August, the highest level for 13 months. There was also a slower movement in the food inflation

in September 2022 with 9.2 percent, then it speedily moved in the ensuing months, reaching 11.8 percent in December 2022.

“Food inflation in Guimaras began at a slower pace of 9.2 percent in 2023 and spiked to 12.0 in February. From then, the food inflation in Guimaras decelerated until April, and slightly inched-up to 8.2 percent in May, eased to 6.9 percent in June and 4.0 percent in July 2023,” Losare said. (AAL/LAF/ PIA6-Iloilo/ PSAGuimaras)