PIA6 iBALITA Volume 2 Issue No. 25

More Western Visayas rice retailers avail of gov’t subsidy

By Franz Remar Garion

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- Another batch of small rice retailers from Western Visayas received cash assistance under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Sustainable Livelihood Program - Economic Relief Subsidy (SLP-ERS) on Sept. 21, 2023.

This is the second batch of cash assistance worth P15,000 being given to small rice retailers who are affected by the imposition of Executive Order No. 39 which mandates the price cap on rice throughout the country.

In the region, a total of 928 additional rice retailers received government aid amounting to a total of over P13.9 million through the established payout centers across different provinces.

In Iloilo province, the concerned agencies were able to distribute the cash assistance to a total of 269 small rice retailers.

Of the said number, 12 from Dumangas and two rice retailers from Barotac Nuevo towns availed of the program. The distribution was held at the Liga ng mga Barangay Hall of LGU Dumangas, Iloilo.

Beneficiary Jose Rene Anayan, who has been in the rice retailing business for 36 years, expressed gratitude to the government for the assistance received, lamenting the great loss they have experienced in decreasing the price of rice following the EO 39 mandate compared to the price of the supply they had bought.

Similarly, fellow rice retailer Mariquita Tan, who has also been in rice retailing for over 30 years, conveyed her gratitude for the support they needed to recover from their loss.

“Salamat gid sa assistance nga ginhatag sa amon. Ini nga kwarta akon liwat nga gamiton para sa akon negosyo (agud) nga magbakal liwan ka bugas (Thank you very much for the assistance that you have given us. I will use the money to buy rice again),” she said.

Meanwhile, retailer Rene Beatizula Jr., who has just been in business for four months now, signified that he is one of the retailers who have adhered to EO 39 since its implementation earlier this month. → page 2

“Sang September 5, adlaw gid sang pag-declare, ginsunod gid dayon namon. Nagpierde gid man kay ti syempre, pagbakal sang paray mahal pa mo tapos ginpagaling. Ti, thank gid sa DSWD, sa DTI, kay Mayor (Braeden John Biron) kag salamat man sa mga nagburolig para matigayon ini (Last September 5, the first day of the implementation, we immediately followed. We experienced loss because of buying palay at a high price then added the cost of milling it into rice. So, thank you to DSWD, DTI, to Mayor (Braeden John Biron), and thank you also to those who have helped in this program),” Beatizula shared.

To note, LGU Dumangas Municipal Administrator lawyer Lady Hope Gallenero, representing the mayor,

together with the DSWD SLP Team, DTI 6 Consumer Protection Division Grace Benedicto, DTI Iloilo Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Romil Maro, and Dumangas MLGOO Marlyn S. Gayadao, graced the said payout.

In the province of Antique, DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program team leader Noli Valenzuela noted that the distribution is simultaneous in three clusters, benefiting a total of 171 small rice retailers.

These include the southern cluster covering the towns of Anini-y, Tobias Fornier, Hamtic, San Jose, San Remigio, Sibalom, and Belison with 69 recipients; the central cluster covering the towns of Barbaza, Lauaan, Bugasong, Patnongon, Valderrama

has 56 recipients; and the northern cluster including the towns of Libertad, Caluya, Pandan, Sebaste, Culasi, and Tibiao with 46 beneficiaries.

Edgar Pecaoco, a rice retailer from San Remegio town, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the government agencies that facilitated this program for granting them cash assistance to recover from their losses. He promised to use the aid to buy more stocks and continue to comply with the rice price cap to help consumers as well.

Likewise, Merlie Tilla-in Figueroa, a 76-year-old rice retailer from Hamtic town, expressed gratitude for the cash assistance she received with a pledge to use it to cover the expenses she incurred after complying with the rice price cap.

In other provinces, Aklan distributed the subsidy to 97 beneficiaries, 172 in Capiz, 204 in Negros Occidental, 17 in Guimaras, and four small rice retailers in Iloilo City.

“We are glad that we are able to help more small rice retailers this time. We believe that, in a way, we are helping them cope up with the current situation,” said DSWD 6 Regional Director lawyer Carmelo N. Nochete.

Earlier, it can be noted that the first batch of assistance disbursed amounted to a total of P2,535,000, which was released to 169 beneficiaries on → page 3

More Western Visayas rice retailers...

ANGELS IN RED VEST. The DSWD 6 SLP Team facilitates the verification, profiling, and releasing of the cash assistance for small rice retailers from Dumangas and Barotac Nuevo towns in Iloilo province during a payout schedule on September 21 at the Liga ng mga Barangay Hall of LGU Dumangas. Photo: PIA Region VI

DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program - Economic Relief Subsidy (SLP-ERS) payout distribution in Roxas City, Capiz on Sept. 21 with a total of 185 beneficiaries. Photo: PIA Capiz

More Western Visayas rice retailers...

September 13 and 14, 2023. Also, 82 small rice retailers from Iloilo province received P1,230,000 on September 19, 2023, as part of the first batch.

In a separate press release, DSWD

6 noted that, to date, a total of 1,179 small rice retailers from the region have received cash assistance amounting to a total of P17,685,000.

On the other hand, the 39 target recipients who were not able to receive the aid will be given another schedule

for payout, DSWD 6 reported.

For inquiries regarding the program, the public may reach the DSWD 6 at (033) 330-7860 or email at fo6@dswd. gov.ph. (AAL/FRG/PIA 6/with reports from PIA Aklan, Antique, Capiz, and Negros Occidental)

PSA calls Antiqueños to support agri-fishery census

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) -- The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Antique enjoined everyone to support the 2022 Census on Agriculture and Fisheries (CAF) that started in early September this year with more than 150 personnel visiting sample households provincewide.

Provincial Statistics Officer Randy M. Tacogdoy emphasized the need for the respondents to answer the questionnaire with accurate information as the data gathered in the survey are important for local and national development undertakings.

PSA noted that the nationwide census is conducted every ten years to establish the structural characteristics of the country’s agriculture and fishery industries and to provide basic data on agriculture, aquaculture, and fishing characteristics for use in national and local development planning by the government.

This is also instrumental to gather data on facilities and services available in

the barangay.

Respondents include all households with agricultural, aquaculture, and fishing operators such as those engaged in crop production, livestock, poultry, insects/worm culturing, aquaculture, and/or fishing activity between January 1 to December 31, 2022.

Tacogdoy said that over the years,

By Pilar Mabaquiao

this census has been a source of comprehensive statistics on agriculture and fisheries for the use of the general public, government, business industries, and research.

The listing activity and household interview will be carried out in the 2022 CAF employing two methods of data collection, the Paper and Pen Personal Interview (PAPI) and ComputerAssisted Personal Interview (CAPI).

The questionnaire will collect information on the facilities, input dealers, and service providers related to agriculture, aquaculture, and fisheries that are present/available in the barangay.

Also included is information about the natural calamities experienced in the barangay in the last five years. (AGP/ PSM/PIA Antique with reports from PSA)

Photo courtesy of PSA Antique

Aklan’s Batan Bay now free from red tide -BFAR

By Venus Villanueva

Despite the negative results, the BFAR and the local government units involved will be continuously monitoring Batan Bay to safeguard public health and protect the fishery industry, according to director lawyer Demosthenes R. Escoto who signed the advisory.

Meanwhile, Shellfish Bulletin No. 22 Series of 2023 issued by the BFAR showed that there are still eight areas in the country affected by red tide.

These are the coastal waters of Panay, Pilar, Roxas City, Sapian Bay, and President Roxas, all in Capiz; Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur; coastal waters of Pilar in Capiz; coastal waters of Gigantes Islands in Carles, Iloilo; and coastal waters of Dauis and Tagbilaran in Bohol.

KALIBO, Aklan (PIA) -- Coastal waters of Altavas, Batan, and New Washington towns, comprising the Batan Bay in Aklan, now tested negative for Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP), based on the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Shellfish Advisory No. 23 released on September 19, 2023.

BFAR said negative results for PSP or

red tide toxin were obtained from three consecutive weeks of sampling in the area.

With this, shellfish harvested from the coastal waters of Altavas, Batan, and New Washington are now safe for human consumption. Harvesting, gathering, and marketing of shellfish from the above-mentioned towns are now permitted.

Still affected by the red tide are the two barangays in Batan, Aklan namely Mambuquiao and Camanci, which are across coastal Capiz towns.

In these areas, shellfish collected and tested by BFAR are still positive for PSP or toxic red tide that is beyond the regulatory limit. (AGP/VGV/PIA Aklan)

82 aspirants for Punong Barangay run unopposed in Capiz

OXAS CITY, Capiz (PIA) -- Eightytwo candidates for Punong Barangay in the province’s 473 villages will run unopposed for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on Oct. 30 this year.

This was disclosed by Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Roxas City Election Officer lawyer Rommel Benliro during the Sept. 14 episode of the “PIA Kapihan sa SM” of the Philippine Information Agency in partnership with the Capiz provincial government and SM City Management. → page 5

By Alex Lumaque

Kristal Kae Ombrog, Aquaculturist I of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Provincial Field Offie, shared during the radio prrogram hosted by PIA-Aklan that one of the ways of propagating oyster or talaba in coastal areas is the raft method to prevent water siltation. She also discussed the various programs and projects of BFAR-Aklan in the program. Photo: PIA Aklan

82 aspirants for Punong Barangay...

Based on the COMELEC Provincial Office data, these unopposed candidates come from Roxas City (8) and the municipalities of Cuartero (2), Dao (2), Dumalag (2), Dumarao (4), Ivisan (5), Jamindan (9), Maayon (7), Mambusao (4), Panay (5), Panitan (5), Pilar (2) Pontevedra (2), President Roxas (8), Sapian (1), Sigma (4) and Tapaz (12).

He added that 50 aspirants for SK

chairperson also have no opponents for elective positions.

The COMELEC official also stressed that a unity walk and peace covenant signing will be spearheaded by the concerned local police stations in partnership with their COMELEC counterpart for peaceful, orderly, and honest elections.

“In Roxas City, we have scheduled the

unity walk and covenant signing on Sept. 25. Other towns have already done it while others are also to schedule based on the availability of the candidates,” Benliro noted.

The province’s registered voters for the BSKE reached 752,068, which includes 551,707 voters for the barangay polls and 200,361 for the SK polls. (AGP/ AAL/PIA Capiz)

Iloilo’s ‘ZOD’ campaign qualifies for 2023 Galing Pook Awards

ILOILO CITY (PIA6) -- The zero open defecation (ZOD) campaign of Iloilo province, which is one of the commitments of the Iloilo provincial government to deliver better healthcare services and sanitation programs to the public, has been qualified for the 2023 Galing Pook Awards.

Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. recently presented Iloilo’s entry dubbed “Mobilizing Communities through People-Centered Zero Open Defecation (ZOD) Movement towards a Sustainable Sanitation” to Galing Pook validators namely Dr. Jose Rene Gayo, Miguel Rene Dominguez and Adonis Caballero.

The Galing Pook Awards is an annual recognition program in the country that honors outstanding local governance initiatives. The awards aim to highlight and promote innovative and effective local governance practices and projects that have made a significant impact on their communities.

Defensor said that the province’s entry is a vital campaign to the community because it is a fundamental health project that contributes to the overall welfare of Ilonggos.

“The zero open defecation program strikes at the very heart of that concern (health). That is why it is very important to us,” the governor added,” the governor said.

It is noted that the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) first introduced ZOD to Iloilo after the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 and the province started its campaign in barangay and municipal levels in 2015, ensuring that there will be no defection in

open surroundings to prevent the contamination of water sources which could result in diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis, diarrhea, and amoebiasis, among others.

Since the start of the campaign, the provincial government allots an annual budget of P5 million for the purchase of toilet bowls, pipes, and cement to be given to the barangays for them to build toilets for every household.

Aside from the capital interventions, the provincial government also implemented different measures to achieve the ZOD status, and these include the institutionalization of the ZOD program through the passage of Provincial Ordinance No. 2018179; adoption of the program in the municipal and barangay levels through the implementation of the Philippine Approach to Sustainable Sanitation (PhaTSS); organization of the Municipal Verification Teams (MVTs) task to certify and declare ZOD municipalities and barangays; and addressing the challenges in contamination of water sources in some areas that affect the sanitation program of the towns.

In November 2022, Iloilo was conferred by the Department of Health → page 6

By John Noel E. Herrera

Iloilo’s ‘ZOD’ campaign qualifies...

with the ZOD Grade 1 status after all the 1,721 barangays in the province had been certified as ZOD villages, making Iloilo as the first province in Western Visayas and third in the country to eradicate the unhygienic practice.

Defensor, on the other hand, stressed

that the behavioral adjustments of the public and improvements in facilities are the key pieces for the province to sustain its ZOD status.

“In order for sustainability sa aton ZOD status, we must know the right way to use it. We must learn how to clean

it and always, so those behavioural adjustments even as of now, we continue to struggle there and it will be a continuing campaign not only here in Iloilo but in the entire country (to practice it) so that we can sustain this campaign,” Defensor previously said. (AAL/JNH/ PIA6 Iloilo)

Farmers, fishers get livelihood aid from DOLE

By April Grace Padilla

LOILO CITY (PIA) -- Several livelihood financial support from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 6 were recently handed to the farmers and fisherfolk in Western Visayas.

Some 80 beneficiaries in the northern part of Estancia, a coastal town in Iloilo province, benefited from the P1.2 million livelihood assistance of the labor department.

A check worth P600,000.00 for the sari-sari store, food vending projects, motor engines, and fishing gear, was turned over to the 40 beneficiaries in the island barangay of Bayas, while another P600,000.00 was released to the same number of beneficiaries of Brgy. Pa-on.

Farmers from Lemery town in Iloilo also received several projects and interventions from DOLE 6 to augment and provide alternative livelihood, particularly to those who strive mainly from farming. Around 40 beneficiaries from Brgy. Nasapahan and 35 from Brgy. Agpipili was covered with the P1,000,000.00 financial grant for the livelihood projects.

In particular, the Nasapahan Rice and Corn Farmers Association was provided with P500,000.00 assistance for the first-of-its-kind rice mill machine in the barangay, equipped with 4DR5 engine shifter, wire mesh, belts and pulley, fittings, and accessories.

Meanwhile, the Agpipili OFWs and Families Association was given agricultural inputs worth P500,000.00

for a retail store that will enhance accessibility and lessen expenses of the farmers who used to travel seven to eight kilometers to buy their agricultural needs.

In the province of Antique, DOLE 6 has also recently turned over a total of P1,250,000.00 livelihood support, which intends to enhance the Coco Food Enterprise, noting that it is the first engagement of Anini-y town in coconut food production.

A total of 68 beneficiaries, mostly fisherfolk and farmers, including senior citizens and members of the marginalized sectors, are set to benefit from the livelihood support project.

The recipients also got equipment and accessories for the production of coconut products such as virgin coconut oil, buko pies, and macaroons, while part of the financial grant is intended for

the enhancement of fishing bancas and the provision of fishing materials.

Per DOLE 6 news releases, the livelihood projects could provide alternative income during lean months and in times of calamities, considering that the main sources of livelihood in the region are agriculture and fisheries industries.

“We want to exploit what they have and their capacity to produce. The financial assistance will surely complement their respective industries and the abundance of resources in their backyards,” said DOLE 6 regional director lawyer Sixto T. Rodriguez, Jr.

Rodriguez also encouraged the beneficiaries to sustain the livelihood projects and assured them of DOLE’s readiness to help in their future endeavors. (AAL/AGP/PIA 6 with reports from DOLE 6)

Photo courtesy of DOLE Region VI

State workforce must be dynamic, resilient -CSC

By Bernard Ceasar Susbilla

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) -- The Civil Service Commission (CSC) believes that a dynamic and resilient government workforce is crucial in ensuring public service excellence and continuity.

In an interview, CSC Antique Field Office director Andre L. Ladigohon said that there is a need to integrate dynamism among career service workers in order to develop strong and resilient government institutions.

As the country observes the 123rd Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) this September, Ladigohon noted that the annual celebration seeks to establish a bureaucracy driven by dynamic employees, sustainable leadership and management, and a resilient organization, with relevance to the 10-year PCSA theme.

In 2021, CSC introduced the overarching PCSA theme for the next decade, “Transforming Public Service in the Next Decade: Honing Agile and Future-Ready Servant-Heroes,” which mirrors the collective experiences of civil service employees amid the new normal.

The theme is also a testament to the continued pursuit of digital transformation and innovations in order

to secure quality and uninterrupted public service delivery through civil servants adaptable to changes and capable of enduring difficulties.

The first week of the celebration, dubbed “Linggo ng Lingkod Bayani,” highlights nationwide launching activities and the achievements of government workers, while the second week, “Linggo ng Paglilinang ng Yamang Tao,” emphasizes learning and development (L&D) programs and current trends in the public sector human resource (HR).

For the third week, titled “Linggo ng Malasakit,” CSC seeks to amplify

advocacy campaigns through activities such as Plant-Run 2023, Bloodletting Activity, and the Government Online Career Fair (GOCF) on September 1822.

Meanwhile, the fourth and final week will consist of a public sector HR symposium, recognition rites, medical mission of government workers, and a family day celebration as a way to express gratitude for the valuable support of civil servants and other stakeholders.

In Antique, some of the activities prepared by CSC, together with the Council of Human Resource Management Practitioners-Antique (CHRMPA) and partner local government units (LGUs), are a bloodletting activity at Robinsons Antique on September 5, a treeplanting activity in Patnongon town on Sept. 8, and a community outreach activity in Barbaza town on Sept. 18.

CSC Antique also invites the public to the Color Fun Run and Bike Fest on September 20 with the assembly point at the University of Antique (UA), details of which may be found on their official Facebook page. (AGP/BPS with reports from the Civil Service Commission/Photos courtesy of CSC Antique Field Office)

DOE to 4Ps, low-income families: Avail of Lifeline Rate Subsidy

By Franz Remar Garion

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- The Department of Energy (DOE) Visayas Field Office reminded Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries and other marginalized end-users to register and avail of the government’s Lifeline Rate Subsidy program.

Department of Energy (DOE) Visayas Field Office - Energy Industry Management Division chief Engr. Jose Rey Maleza, in a Philippine Information Agency 6’s online Kapihan program, reiterated the call for the qualified household beneficiaries of the said government program.

“Although you are members of the 4Ps, still you must be registered or get enlisted through your respective power

distribution utilities (DUs) or electric cooperatives (ECs) to be included in the program,” Maleza emphasized.

Based on the report of the DOE-VFO, as of September 8, there are a total of 7,754 marginalized end-users in the region who have registered to the program through their respective DUs or Electric ECs.

Of the said number, some 6,394 are 4Ps beneficiaries, while the remaining 1,360 are non-4Ps end-users.

The majority of these are registered under the Iloilo II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ILECO 2) with 2,516 composed of 2,180 4Ps beneficiaries and 336 for non-4Ps. Followed by MORE Electric

and Power Corporation (MORE) covering Iloilo City with 2,284 – 1,509 for 4Ps and 775 non-4Ps; Aklan Electric Cooperative, Inc. (AKELCO) – 972 (953 and 19); Northern Negros Electric Cooperative, Inc. (NONECO) – 465 (all 4Ps); Iloilo I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ILECO 1) – 447 (399 and 48); Capiz Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CAPELCO) – 365 (all 4Ps); Iloilo III Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ILECO 3) – 365 (195 and 161); Antique Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ANTECO) – 188 (175 and 13); Guimaras Electric Cooperative, Inc. (GUIMELCO) – 86 (84 and 2); Central Negros Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CENECO) – 45 (39 and 6); and Northern Negros Electric Cooperative, Inc. (NONECO) – 30 (all 4Ps).

Meanwhile, in Western Visayas, based on the DSWD 6 data, 328,239 households are benefiting from the 4Ps program as of August 2023 and a total of 536,998 households are categorized as poor under the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) also known as the Listahanan 3.0 of July 2022.

These households are eligible to participate in the program as outlined in Republic Act No. 11552, which was enacted in May 2021, extending and improving the implementation of the Lifeline Rate, enabling families to qualify for the program, and → page 9

DOE to 4Ps, low-income families...

ensuring they continue to receive discounts on their electricity bills.

Further, the marginalized end-users who may apply for the program are those member-consumers or customers with monthly power consumption below 100-kilowatt hours (kWh).

To apply for the Lifeline Rate program, households that are beneficiaries of 4Ps need to submit a duly accomplished application form, their most recent electricity bill, and a valid governmentissued identification card (ID) that includes their signature and address

to their Distribution Utilities (DUs) or Electric Cooperatives (ECs).

On the other hand, other marginalized end-users who are not part of the 4Ps beneficiaries but are part of households listed by the DSWD must provide a certification from their local Social Welfare Development Office (SWDO), issued within six months prior to the application, indicating their family income at the time of application. They also need to submit a duly accomplished form, their most recent electricity bill, and a government-issued ID with their signature and address to their DUs.

Maleza also noted that the scale of rate reduction varies depending on the prevailing rates of the distribution utilities.

For concerns and other queries, power consumers may visit the nearest DU or EC branch office or sub-station in their area.

The ERC may also be reached through their Lifeline Program hotline number (02) 8689-5372 local 5222 for Pasig City, (63) 905-343-2292 for Cebu City, or (63) 956-305-3313 for Davao City. (AAL/FRG/PIA6)

Roxas City gives residents monthly rice subsidy

By Pia Lorraine Francisco

ROXAS CITY, Capiz (PIA) -- The Roxas City government recently distributed 15-kilo imported rice as a subsidy to each qualified indigent household in the city under its “Bugas para sa Taga Roxas” program.

This is one of the thrusts of Roxas City mayor Ronnie Dadivas to help address the food security concerns of the city residents.

Roxas City Information Division head Melvin Galagate said that a total of 40,000 qualified families will be granted 15 kilos of rice monthly.

Galagate added that during the pandemic, they distributed rice allowance to more than 45,000 families living in area and their rice stocks now are all imported.

In one of the distributions, Dadivas said that the food security initiative will be sustained under his administration.

“Naga-panawagan ako sa tanan nga magbinuligay kag kinahanglan ang suporta agud nga tayuyon ang mga programa kag proyekto sang gobyerno ilabi na sa ti-on sang krisis (I am asking everyone that we need to help and support each other so that the programs

and projects of the government will be sustained especially during the times of crisis),” Dadivas noted.

One of the beneficiaries from Brgy. Banica conveyed her appreciation to the city government, especially amid the rising prices of commodities in the market.

“Fifty- eight pesos na ang kilo sang bugas dira sa tyangge, tambak na amon utang. Hay wala ka mahimo kay kabos man ang kwarta. Daku-dako

gid ang pasalamat ko kay naga-abot gyapon ang 15 kilos nga bugas ni mayor- libre na, maayo pa nga klase (The kilo of rice in the sari-sari store is now P58.00 and our debt is piling up. However, we cannot do anything because we are in short of money. I am very grateful because of the 15-kilo rice from the mayor- it is not only free but also of good class),” one of the beneficiaries added.

It can be recalled that Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., issued Executive → page 10

Beneficiaries from Brgy. Banica receive 15 kilos of rice each from the Roxas City government. (Photo courtesy of Roxas City mayor Ronnie Dadivas Facebook page)

Roxas City gives residents...

Order No. 39, putting a price cap on rice to ease off the increasing price of the staple food caused by hoarding and price manipulation in the country.

In line with this, the Roxas City Grains Retailers Association (RCGRA) based at the Teodoro Arcenas Trade Center here is one of the first rice retailers

in the region who committed support for the imposition of Mandated Price Ceiling in the regular-milled rice and well-milled rice. (AGP/PLF/PIA Capiz)

DPWH 6 turns over P48.6M multipurpose facility

By April Grace Padilla

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 6 has recently turned over the P48.6million multipurpose facility here.

The building, located in Barangay Sooc in Arevalo district, has a covered basketball court that can be converted into an evacuation center, capable of accommodating at least 196 families or 500 individuals.

In his speech during the ceremonial turnover, DPWH 6 OIC-Regional Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel emphasized that the facility can be used as an evacuation center for individuals who have been displaced from their homes due to various emergencies or disasters.

Oropel added that the purpose of the facility extends far beyond its physical structure as it embodies the collective commitment of people to safeguarding, as it offers a comprehensive approach to disaster management, equipped with complete amenities.

The building features necessary

facilities such as a basketball court with a stage that could cater to sports and other activities of various barangays in the city.

It also includes necessary amenities such as a reception area, mess hall, administration office, storage area, play area with breastfeeding room, conjugal space, toilet and bath for males and females with provision for persons with

disabilities (PWDs), clinic, prayer room, laundry and drying area, cistern tank, and parking area.

The multipurpose building is further equipped with an anaerobic baffled reactor generator room and transformer.

Oropel disclosed that the DPWH 6 has already completed 25 multipurpose buildings or regional evacuation centers in Western Visayas where 13 of which are in Panay, two in Guimaras, and 10 in Negros Occidental with one ongoing in Sipalay City.

“As we enhance our disaster response capabilities, we also strengthen the bonds that unite our community. Hence, this building/evacuation center is a tangible manifestation of our collective responsibility and strong determination to stand strong in the face of adversity in order to ensure the safety and security of our fellow Ilonggos,” Oropel noted. (AAL/AGP/PIA 6 with reports from DPWH 6)

Photo courtesy of DPWH Region VI

Photo courtesy of DPWH Region VI

Iloilo ARBOs get over P1-M worth of fertilizers

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- Some P1,080, 620.50 worth of fertilizers were recently distributed by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) - Iloilo to six Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) in the province.

The fertilizer assistance which included 349 bags of Urea (40-0-0) and 352 bags of Triple 14 (14-14-14) was funded under the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Project (CRFPSP) which formed part of the intervention to sustain the livelihood of these ARBOs. This is being implemented by the Program Beneficiaries Development Division of the agency.

This livelihood support, according to DAR – Iloilo, is given to ARB organizations to provide them with access to essential nutrients for their crops. This, in turn, can lead to increased agricultural productivity, higher crop yields, and improved income for farmers.

DAR-Iloilo further said that with an abundant harvest farmers have a better chance of ensuring food security for their families and the community. Consequently, through this, the improved crop yield resulting from fertilizer subsidies can help lift the ARB organizations way of living by providing them a source of capital.

The six ARBOs that benefited from the fertilizer subsidy are GUINTAPAGIN Agrarian Reform Cooperative in the

By Lilibeth French

Municipality of Binggawan; Jaguimitan Agrarian Reform Cooperative in the Passi City; Badiangan Ginger Planters and Producers Cooperative in Badiangan; Lipata Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative in Barotac Viejo; Ulian Tampucao Agrarian Reform Cooperative in Lambuna; and Tirol Estate Farmers Association in Concepcion, Iloilo.

DAR Iloilo said the continued provision of these support services is anchored on the thrust of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III towards the welfare of the farmers.

In a post on the DAR Iloilo Provincial

Facebook page, Lipata ARB

Cooperative Chairman Lorenzo Saonoy expressed his gratitude for the fertilizer subsidy which according to him is a big help for them farmers.

“Ako nagapasalamat sa DAR Iloilo sa paghatag sa amon sang abono, dako gid ini nga bulig sa amon nga mga mangunguma. Tungod sa kamahalon sang abono subong, ang inugbakal pa sang abono subong, ibakal na lang sang mga kinahanglanon sa sulod sang panimalay. Madamo gid nga salamat kay Secretary Estrella kag President BBM dako gid ini nga bulig sa amon nga mga mangunguma,” said Saonoy. (AAL/LAF/PIA6-Iloilo/DAR- Iloilo)

DSWD6 to continue programs even during election period

By Franz Remar Garion

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- The programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office VI will continue amid the election period, the agency’s press release recently announced.

This, DSWD 6 Regional Director lawyer

Carmelo Nochete announced, after the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) approved the request of the agency for exemption of implementation of programs and services from the spending ban as stipulated in the provisions of Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code in relation to

COMELEC Resolution No. 10944.

“Our programs and services will continue. We are happy that the Comelec has granted an exemption to our implementation of programs and services because these are for the benefit of the → page 12

Photo courtesy of DAR Iloilo Provincial Office

DSWD6 to continue programs...

for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP), and the Psychosocial care and support for persons living with HIV and their affected families.

Moreover, included in the approved request are the Targeted Cash Transfer Program (TCT), Residential and Nonresidential Care Program, Philippine Multi-Sectoral Nutrition Project, SocioEconomic Program for Normalization of the Commissioned Combatant, and Modified Shelter Assistance Project.

people,” said Nochete.

According to the DSWD 6 press release, the programs that will continue include the subsidy for rice retailers under the Sustainable Livelihood Program - Economic Relief Subsidy (SLP-ERS).

This program is a one-time cash grant worth P15,000.00 for small rice retailers affected by the imposition of the rice price ceiling across the country pursuant to Executive Order No. 39 of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Further, other DSWD programs and projects with approved exemption from

the election ban are the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, the Food Stamp Program (FSP),

the “Tara, Basa! Tutoring” Program, Oplan Pag-Abot, Project Lawa, Social Pension Program, Centenarian Program, and the Supplemental Feeding Program.

Also exempted are the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAPH), KalahiCIDSS, Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan or PAMANA Program, Recovery and Reintegration Program

The agency also reported that DSWD is allowed to continue its ongoing disaster relief, early recovery and rehabilitation programs, and provision of programs and services to address the needs of poor, vulnerable, and marginalized Filipinos.

To note, COMELEC Resolution No. 10944 provides the rules and regulations on the prohibition against the release, disbursement or expenditures of public funds and construction of public works, delivery of materials for public works, and issuance of Treasury Warrants and similar devices under Sections 261 (V) and (W) of the Omnibus Election Code in connection with the October 30, 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections. (AAL/FRG/PIA6/with reports from DSWD6)

PSA launches ‘PhilSys on Wheels’

By Pilar Mabaquiao

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) -- The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) launched recently the “PhilSys on Wheels,” a mobile registration for those who have not yet registered with the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) here.

Provincial Statistics Officer Randy M. Tacogdoy in a press release said that this is in line with the government’s efforts to cover the remaining unregistered Antiqueños to the PhilSys.

PSA reported a total of 477,020 or about 87% of Antique → page 13

Photo courtesy of DSWD Region VI

Photo courtesy of PSA Antique

residents aged five years old and over were already registered as of August 31, 2023.

The implementation of PhilSys is mandated under Republic Act No. 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act which aims to establish a single national identification system for all citizens and resident aliens of the Republic of the Philippines.

The PhilSys on Wheels is traveling to all municipalities in the province covering various barangays and markets during their respective market days, as well as during public events.

Simultaneous mobile registrations in schools and offices are also being undertaken aside from the putting up of registration centers at the PSA Provincial Office located on the ground

floor of Eagle’s Hotel Building and the Civil Registry System (CRS) Outlet at the ground floor of Xela Hotel, both at Bantayan Road, San Jose, Antique, for convenient and fixed registration access for the public.

The PhilSys ID shall serve as the official government-issued identification document of cardholders, providing valid proof of identity for all citizens and resident aliens as a means of simplifying public and private transactions.

The PhilSys aims to eliminate the need to present other forms of identification when transacting with all national government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and all private sector entities.

As a foundational digital ID system, PhilSys will transform how services are delivered in the Philippines and expedite the transition to a digital economy. (AGP/PSM/PIA-Antique with reports from PSA)

‘Tienda sa FishCon’ promotes local innovative food products

ILOILO CITY (PIA) – The “Tienda sa FishCon” food exhibit during the 60th National Fish Conservation (FishCon) Week this year features a variety of fish and fishery products from the provinces across the Western Visayas region like seaweed crackers, bangus lumpia, bangus siomai, artisanal sea salt roasted with lemon grass, and mussel kropek, among others.

A total of 14 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental were given the opportunity to feature their products in the seafood trade and exhibit displayed at the DABFAR Regional Office, Muelle St., Iloilo City.

Meanwhile, a series of webinars dubbed “Fish Talk sa FishCon” conducted from September 18 to 22 tackled several

By April Grace Padilla

topics such as Learnings from Artificial Reef, Development Program on Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB), → page 14

Photo courtesy of PSA Antique

Photo courtesy of BFAR Region VI

Aquatic Animal Health Management and Quarantine Measures, and Development of Farmers’ Cooperatives.

DA-BFAR 6 regional director Remia Aparri in her message during this Fish Conservation Week told stakeholders to engage in productive discussions, share innovative ideas, and renew their commitment to building a future where abundant fisheries fuel a booming economy.

“I am confident that our collective efforts will lead to a brighter and more sustainable future for our beloved Philippines,” Aparri said.

With this, several orientations to address some pressing concerns relative to fisheries, distributions of support, and various training across Western Visayas will be carried out for the weeklong FishCon 2023 celebration.

The distribution of Tilapia Fingerlings and provision of technical support were done in Bacolod City; cluster orientations for the Shellfish Livelihood Program were done in Banate, Batad, and San Dionisio, Iloilo; and Fish Processing training was conducted in Hamtic town, province of Antique.

Moreover, the Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing Index and Threat Assessment Tool were rolled out in the towns of New Washington in Aklan and Roxas City in Capiz.

Distribution of milkfish fingerlings was made in Jordan, Guimaras, while dispersals of tilapia fingerlings are set to be done on Sept. 21 in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo, and the towns of San Remigio and Valderrama in Antique.

Guided by the theme this 2023, “Masaganang Pangisdaan, Maunlad

na Ekonomiya”, the nationwide observation held every third week of September is in accordance with Presidential Proclamation No. 316, series of 2017, as part of the annual Maritime and Archipelagic Month or “Mana Mo” observance in the country.

Mana Mo was designed to integrate and synchronize efforts of all maritimerelated events to achieve unity of message and purpose while raising public awareness about a wide range of marine and archipelagic issues. (AGP/ PIA 6 with reports from DA-BFAR 6)

Nominations for ‘Bugal kang Antique’ now open

By Bernard Ceasar Susbilla

SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) -- The provincial government here is now accepting nominations for the “Bugal kang Antique Awards 2023.”

After a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Bugal kang Antique Awards returns this year to acknowledge and give recognition to the noteworthy achievements and community contributions of Antiqueños and organizations.

Bugal kang Antique 2023 Awards chair and Peace, Order, and Public Safety (POPS) Office head Margie L. Gadian said that the distinction → page 15

‘Tienda sa FishCon’ promotes...

Photo courtesy of BFAR Region VI

Nominations for ‘Bugal kang Antique’...

“Bugal kang Antique” is reserved for Antiqueños and organizations that have exhausted time and effort in promoting the welfare of and have brought pride and honor to the province and its people.

Gadian then emphasized that the accomplishments and contributions of nominees must have an exceptional and positive impact on the community.

Bugal kang Antique Awards are given in the fields of Governance and Public Service, Arts and Culture, Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Environmental Protection, Sports, and Community Service.

Any Antiqueño or organization may be nominated by a fellow Antiqueño, a local government unit (LGU), or another

organization, provided that nominations are properly and sufficiently supported by documentation.

Nominations must include the resume of the nominee or profile of the organization, proof of achievements and social contributions, testimonies from other persons, clippings from printed publications, and other relevant documentation, such as photographs.

The Bugal kang Antique 2023 Awards selection committee will be composed of representatives from the academe, business sector, religious sector, nonpartisan groups, and former Bugal kang Antique awardees who will identify this year’s awardees based on the criteria of community impact, personal integrity, education qualification, and awards and recognitions received.

The Bugal kang Antique Awards is one of the major events in Antique’s biggest and grandest festival, Binirayan Festival, held every December.

POPS Office will be accepting nominations until November 8 at their office location at 2F ANIAD Building, New Capitol Annex, San Jose de Buenavista town.

For questions and clarifications about the Bugal kang Antique Awards 2023, POPS Office may be reached through landline number 036-540-2122, mobile number 0917-5070-774, and email address pops.antique.gov@ gmail. com. (AGP/BPS/PIA Antique/Photos courtesy of Province of Antique)

CSC ‘Pasidungog’ 2023 honors outstanding gov’t workers

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- In line with the celebration of the 123rd Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) this year, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) held a recognition ceremony dubbed “Pasidungog” in Western Visayas for the regional winners and national semi-finalists of the 2023 Search for Outstanding Government Workers on Sept. 21.

This annual highlight event for PCSA in the region honors the roster of government employees who went beyond the call of duty by innovating and pioneering programs and projects that benefited not only their students and stakeholders but also their respective communities.

In Western Visayas, there were six (6) winners for the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awards, 12 for the Pag-asa Award, and 11 for the Dangal ng Bayan Award categories.

Of the 29 regional awardees in total, seven of them were qualified as

national semi-finalists.

Anchored on the ten-year overarching theme “Transforming Public Service in the Next Decade: Honing Agile and Future-Ready Servant Heroes,” the thematic focus this 2023 dwells on dynamism.

By April Grace Padilla

He lauded all the efforts of the awardees in the region, citing them as the source of inspiration in the Philippine bureaucracy.

“It warms my heart that the Honors Awards Program (HAP) → page 16

CSC Commissioner lawyer Ryan

Alvin R. Acosta served as the keynote speaker at the said event.

CSC ‘Pasidungog’ 2023 honors... regional winners and semi-finalists have definitely shown us the importance of dynamism. They chose to go the extra mile instead of simply following the status quo, becoming catalysts for better public service,” said Acosta.

Acosta also acknowledged the awardees’ noteworthy contributions, initiatives, and exemplary characters, which he deemed proof of their fervor to serve with excellence and of their strong desire to infuse public service with new approaches, elevating the delivery of services among the stakeholders.

Former Presidential Lingkod Bayan awardee Dr. Raul N. Banias also delivered an inspirational message during the program.

“In all the engagements, I always

emphasize the importance of being vision-driven in our roles in the government. Despite our resource limitations, it is crucial to have a clear vision and drive this to make it a shared community vision,” noted Banias.

He further underscored to servant leaders the importance of empowering their staff and striving to make a positive impact in the lives of their constituents with excellence and integrity.

Meanwhile, one of the Dangal ng Bayan national semi-finalists Andrew T. Palomar from the Department of Agriculture (DA) 6, whose efforts in promoting sustainable farming practices helped the farmers’ cooperatives reach their full potential and maximum impact on the community, attributed the honor received to his colleagues and farmers served, who paved way to him in

carrying out various mobilization efforts in agriculture.

“I am hopeful that we will serve as an example that others may opt to follow. Likewise, I believe that as public servants, we should be of service to our communities in all ways, always,”

added Palomar.

To note, pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 1050, series of 1997, the month of September is declared as the Civil Service Month in the country. (AAL/AGP/PIA 6)

CSC Commissioner lawyer Ryan Alvin R. Acosta delivers his keynote message during the Pasidungog 2023.

Photo: PIA Region VI