Viewpoint vol 2 issue 33

Officials and employees of the Provincial Government of La Union headed by Gov. Manuel C. Ortega (third from left) begin another year of fruitful and ardent labor for the province by reaffirming their loyalty to the nation during the First Monday Flag Raising Ceremony for January 2014 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds. (Photo by Wendell Tangalian, PITO La Union).

Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos (4th from right), together with Prof. Amy Liang (4th from left), President of the AsiaPacific Bonsai Friendship Federation, Dr. Miriam Pascua (3rd from right), President of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), and the members of the Philippine Bonsai Society, cut the ribbon signifying the opening of the Bonsai School in Batac City January 6. The school was established by MMSU in cooperation with the Provincial Government. (www.inorte.gov)

Cover story….

PGLU Sets for Strengthened Public Service for 2014

By Justin Paul D. Marbella, PITO-La Union For the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU), the New Year means new opportunities to bring forth even stronger and more effective public service, that’s why it is all geared up to achieve this goal for 2014.

During the First Monday Flag Raising Ceremony for January 2014, PGLU officials and employees gathered at the Provincial Capitol Grounds to commence yet again another year of productive and ardent labor for the province. “Starting Calendar Year 2014 is our unwavering commitment to elevate the practice of good governance in the province,” said Gov. Manuel C. Ortega, who served as Guest of Honor and Speaker during the Ceremony.

CEO/PUBLISHER: DELIA JESUSA A. GUARINO CHIEF OPERATION OFFICER: BENJAMIN P. BASA ASSISTANT CHIEF OPERATION OFFICER: JEZZ MARIE GUARINO GENERAL MANAGER: YZIANDREA A. GUARINO GENERAL SALES/MARKETING OFFICER: JOAN C. ROSALES ADVERTISING MANAGER: ANAVELLA S. RACELI EDITOR IN CHIEF: YZIANDREA A. GUARINO COLUMNIST/REPORTERS/ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: MAJOY C. DUMBRIQUE ANAVELLA S. RACELI ANTONIO PUG-YAO LAY-OUT ARTIST: ROGEL J. DUMBRIQUE LEGAL CONSULTANT: ATTY. MARCELINO M. QUITORAS, JR.

MAIN OFFICE: #822 PNR COMPOUND BRGY. CATBANGEN, SFC-La Union SATELITE OFFICE: SITIO 1, BRGY. 36 ARANIW, LAOAG CITY, I. NORTE (After the Araniw Bridge) MOBILE NO: 09481426218 E-MAIL ADD.: ben.basa@yahoo.com

● DPWH improves way to Ilocos Region - page 4. ● Region 1 police celebrates 20th PNP Ethics Day; Confers Awards - page 5. ● All systems go for early registration – DepEd Ilocos - page 5. ● LUPPO to Implement Iloko Code - page 6. ● Fire-free Holiday celebrations in Laoag ● BM Aragon Pushes for VAWC Seminar - page 6. ● Pamulinawen Festival XVIII: "STEADFAST" page 7. ● 526 Newly-promoted Pro1 cops take oath page 7. ● Traditional industries at produkto pasisiglahin sa Ilocos Sur - page 8. ● New tourism trail explores other side of Ilocos Norte - page 8. ● Ilocos Norte women convert old newspapers to saleable goods - page 9. ● "Listahanan" to reach more poor households in Ilocos - page 10. ● Philippine football team wins in Asia Pacific Special Olympics - page 10 ● Tribal village, newest attraction in Ilocos Norte - page 10.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

S

amo’t-sari ang reaksyon ng madlang PIPOL at TALK of the TOWN ngayon PRIVELEGE SPEECH ni SEN. BONG REVILLA, Isang ACTION STAR na naging POLITIKO. Ang PRIVELEGE SPEECH niya sa SENADO na kung saan iba’t ibang ISYU ang kanyang tinalakay.

Katulad ko, katulad ni JUAN mayroong nagbigay ng di kaaya-ayang komento, sumang-ayon at karamihang JUAN ay nagkibit-balikat lang sa ISYUNG PINASABOG na hinalintulad nila sa isang “AKSYON MOVIE” na si SENADOR BONG REVILLA mismo ang “BIDA” at PANGUNAHING ARTISTA. Ang sigaw ng MADLANG PIPOL na kinabibilangan ni KARANIWANG si JUAN ay… MAY BAGO PA BA?? WALA NAMANG BAGO, hindi ba????

Maging ang mga tinaguriang “POLITICAL ANALYST” ay may kanya-kanya rin silang OPINIYON at KAISIPAN na kung saan karamihan sa kanila ay hindi masyadong kombinsido sa Privelege Speech ng senador dahil hindi naman daw niya deretsahang sinagot ang mga ISYU hinggil sa PDAF na ipinaparatang sa kanya bagkus maliban sa animo’y SCRIPTED katulad ng mga SCENARIO SA PELIKULA o TELESERYE ang kanya BITLA, ay INILIHIS umano niya ang isyu… Kung himayhimayin ang kanyang ISINALAYSAY na ikinasangkot ng pangalan ni P-NOY sa 2012 CORONA TRIAL… ang tanong ay… BAKIT NGAYON LANG SIYA NAGSALITA? Hindi ba’t … ang pagsasabi KAAGAD ng TAMA at TAPAT na naaayon mismo sa mga ISYU na may kinalaman sa IKABABAHALA ng TAONG BAYAN katulad ni JUAN… ay NARARAPAT lamang na IPAGSIGAWAN sa PANAHON ding IYON??? HINDI ba’t “ SAKIT na matatawag ng KARAMIHAN sa ATIN… na Pilipino… ang MAGSIRAAN at MAGLABASAN ng BAHO??? Kung sa atin ay walang problema dahil tayo ay “KARANIWANG JUAN” ngunit sa mga “POLITIKO” na niloklok natin sa kani-kanilang POSISYON mula sa BRGY. KAPITAN hanggang pagkaPRESIDENTE, nararapat bang maging ASALKALYE ang karamihan sa kanila??? Hindi ba’t ASALKALYE ang tawag sa mga ganoong CHARACTER na sa mismong plenaryo, session at maging sa maririnig sa RADYO, nababasa sa pahayagan at walang hampay ang NAKAKARINDING EXCHANGE of words na animo’y nasa KALYE lamang silang nagsasalita at nag-uusap?...

Oh! My Goodness ika nga.. Asan ang DELICADEZA… meron pa ba???

Tsk! Tsk! Tsk! Sa aking pananaw hindi lamang ang mga ARTISTANG nagging POLITIKO ay may ganoong GALING sa PAG-ARTE maging ang ating mga POLITIKONG… sanay na… sanay na sa “MATALINHAGA at BULAKLAKING pananalita”… Hay! 2014 onli in da Pilipinas talaga!

2014

… Enero pay laeng ngem umatiperperen dagiti damage a pakaseknan ti maaw-awagan iti “King of the Road”, pakaibilangan dagiti “KILLER BUSES ken RIDING IN TANDEM” kaet dagiti “sip-siputan” ni JUAN, particular dagiti pim-piman nga ordinary nga umili nga agbalbalin a biktima iti nasao a pas-pasamak.

Kas kinabara iti “hot pandesal a maisaw-saw iti agas-asuk a kape”, nupay aysus! Mapadasan met laengen ni Juan ti ag-JACKET iti NAPUSKOL… puera laeng iti SNOW gapu iti nalammi-is a puluyupoy iti ANGIN, ket bumara latta ti pidit-pidit ni Juan kontra kadagiti “ARED-ED wenno ANAY iti kagimongan”.

Siasino ngamin iti saan a BUMARA ti PIDITPIDITNA kadagitoy a “KILLER BUSES ken RIDING IN TANDEM?... Itay kallabes, dagitoy a killer buses ket “HOT ISSUE” gapu iti aksidente a nakatayan iti nagka-adu a pasaheros nga agpapan ita ket “PROBLEMA” a saan a marisat-risat bayat dagitoy met RIDING IN TANDEM ket kaiyarigan laeng iti “PI-YEK” a mangpapatay ket agala kadagiti ram-ramit wenno kagawaan dagiti umili a biktima iti krimen.

Tsk! Tsk! Tsk! Sumanaltek ken sumal-it dagitoy a pas-pasamak… Pudno, naalibtak dagiti kameng iti PNP ken LFTRB, ngem,… apay ngata ngamin a kinuna ni Juan! Napasnek laeng nga agtignay ken maipaayan iti importansya nu adda dumteng a DISGRASYA! Kasta met iti KRIMEN! (puera de los buenos). Saan kadi nga adu iti maipalpalapayag nga agingga a nagwaras iti PULI ni ALEX – UNDER D. TABLE kadagiti maseknan nga ahensya iti gobyerno ket narigat a masulbar daytoy a parikut.

Sorry to say… Sentido kumon ti agpannuray, saan to pulos a MAL-MALPAS ken MASULUSYONAN dagiti “KING OF THE ROAD”!

DPWH IMPROVES WAY TO ILOCOS REGION

Saan

a malapdan wenno maliklikan ti panagdanag dagiti umili kangrunaanna nagannak dagiti dumteng a sagubanit ken aniaman a kita iti sak-sakit ita a panawen particular daytoy a makapa-alarma a sakit a TIGDAS wenno KAMURAS. Agarup riniw-riw nga umili kangrunaanna dagiti ubbing ti agsagsagba iti KAMURAS ken sumagmamano payen iti daksang-gasat a pimmusay… ngem apay! apay!, laksid ti kina-adda iti FREE VACCINATION nga ipapaay ti gobyerno ket kaskasdi a saan a maprebentaran daytoy.

Mangipaspasimudag kadi nga agkurkurang iti INFORMATION DESSIMINATION iti GOBYERNO” ? wenno dagiti umili iti saan a mang-ak-aksem iti RESPONSIBILIDAD, aglalo kadagiti MALADAGA? SANGUEN iti KINAPUDNO!, Saan kadi a nagbalin a KABABALIN iti kaadduan iti NINGAS KUGON ken BAHALANA BUKAS kasta met SAKANA HABIT? Iti benneg ti gobyerno, kinunada nga adu iti agas para kamuras ken libre pay, ngem apay! apay! a sada laeng nga agtignay nu daytoy ket makapa-alarma! Iti biang met dagiti nagannak, apay! Apay! a kasadut ken kasulit dagitoy nga AKMEN ti pagreb-rebbenganda kas nagannak?

Ita a 2014 a makunkuna, adun dagiti basaran ken napasaran tayo, saan kadi a rumbeng laeng nga “AGBALIW TAYON”?

Level of quality and safety of national roads leading to Ilocos Region continues to improve with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) able to increase total length of paved highway to 1,576 kilometers.

In his report to DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson, DPWH Region 1 Director Melanio C. Briosos said that the paving of 31 kilometers of national roads in 2013 has reduced the unpaved roads in Northern Luzon to 47 kilometers which is included in budget priorities and will be completed between 2014 to 2016. Also completed are national bridges with a total length of 366 lineal meters.

DPWH Region 1 together with its ten (10) District Engineering Offices work hand-in-hand in the implementation of 853 projects consisting of roads, bridges, flood control and drainage, and public buildings worth P5.190 Billion in CY 2013 and attained the completion of 611 projects or accomplishment rate of 77 percent.

Notable major projects completed is the 180 lineal meter Aluling Bridge constructed along Cervantes – Bontoc Road crossing the Abra River connecting the towns of Cervantes, Ilocos Sur and Tadian, Mountain Province. The bridge provides faster and safer movement of people and goods between Region I and the Cordillera Administrative Region, reducing travel time from one hour to thirty minutes.

Aluling Bridge bridge was completed on March 25, 2013 and formally inaugurated on August 15, 2013. It was originally started sometime in 1978 and funded on staggered basis but the works accomplished were subsequently damaged by rampaging flood water in the 1990’s.

The Lingayen-Binmaley Road project which provides an alternate route bypassing the busy town proper of Binmaley and Lingayen for motorists heading to eastern and western Pangasinan known for beaches was also completed with no less than President Benigno S. Aquino formally opening to vehicular traffic.

With the right project, right cost, right quality principle in project implementation, the widening of Agoo-Aringay Road Section of the Manila North Road (MNR) not only improves vehicular traffic flow but also addresses flooding problem in the area. The project was also completed four (4) months ahead of schedule and generated fund savings of P3.7million which was utilized in the construction of sidewalk with railings along the Elementary School located within the area for the safety of school children.

In support to the national tourism development program, completed are the construction construction/ widening/upgrading/rehabilitation of Maoini-BaduangSaud Road leading to beaches of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte and the access road to distinctive white limestone formation known as Kapurpurawan Rock Formation along the coast of Burgos, Ilocos Norte. The improvement of Manila North Road, Bantay-San Ildefonso-Section in Ilocos Sur was also completed Two (2) more projects nearing completion to provide access to declared tourism destinations in Pangasinan include Bangrin Mangrove Road with an accomplishment of 99%, and Napudot Access Road with a 92% accomplishment. (SOURCE: http:// www.dpwh.gov.ph/offices/region/01/ index.asp)

REGION 1 POLICE CELEBRATES 20th PNP ETHICS DAY; CONFERS AWARDS CAMP BGEN OSCAR M FLORENDO- Police Senior Superintendent Moro Virgilio M. Lazo, Officer-in-Charge of Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1) led the Region 1 police in celebrating the PNP Ethics Day with the theme “Disiplina sa Sarili, isang Hamon sa Kaayusan at Kaunlaran Tungo sa Serbisyong Makatotohanan” held at the PRO1 Grandstand yesterday morning (January 6).

The occasion was graced by Most Reverend Rodolfo F. Beltran, Bishop of San Fernando City, La Union and Guest of Honor and Speaker.

In his message read by Father Noland Nabua, he stressed the importance of true peace as emphasized in the World Day of Peace being celebrated in every New Year.

“It is a fitting reminder to all of us that all economic development, technological progress, or financial gains can go to waste if this world would not be founded on true peace,” the Bishop said.

Bishop Beltran said that in order to promote peace and order that is solid and lasting, everyone must treat other people with dignity and as brothers and sisters, regardless of race, gender and societal status.

“Everyone is called not only to respect peace, but to genuinely become peacemakers. Give up the way of arms and go out to meet the others in dialogue, pardon and reconciliation in order to rebuild justice, trust, and hope around you,” he said.

In line with the celebration, Bishop Beltran also cited and thanked the Region 1police and the whole PNP as well for depicting honesty and selfless service to the people.

Meanwhile, conferment of awards were also done wherein Medalya ng Kasayan was awarded to Police Chief Inspector Heintje L. Cañete, Chief, Regional Chaplain Service 1, Police Officer 3 (PO3) Levi C. Laguesma, PO2 Resty S. Agayo and PO2 Mark Vincent Pagela for their invaluable services and immeasurable sacrifices of delivering spiritual enhancement to men and women of PRO1.

Likewise, Medalya ng Papuri was also conferred to Police Superintendent Rodolfo D. Castro, Jr., Senior Police Officer 1 (SPO1) Antonio D. Morales Jr., and PO2 Jeffrey S. Mamaril in recognition of their effort in the implementation of the Anti-Illegal Firearms campaign of PRO1 that resulted to the arrest of three (3) suspects and confiscation of three (3) .45 pistols, seven (7) magazines, 130 ammunition and one (1) Honda Motorcycle on August 2, 2013.

All systems go for early registration – DepEd Ilocos By: Joanne Namnama G. Parrocha SAN FERNANDO CITY, January 23 (PIA) – Education officials in the Ilocos region are set for the nationwide early registration of students for the coming school year on January 25.

Education Secretary Armin Luistro said the early enlistment will prevent potential problems that may arise when the new school year starts in June.

In Ilocos region, the Department of Education has assured the installation of registration centers in key elementary and secondary schools on Saturday.

Darius Nieto, education program specialist, said the early enrolment will help address perennial problems that may arise even before classes start.

“We want to assess ahead of time the number of enrollees so that we prepare the needed interventions such as classrooms, chairs and books including teachers prior to the opening of classes,” Nieto said.

Initially, the event’s targets are incoming kindergarten and grade one students who are five to six years old.

“Parents should bring their children’s birth certificate upon registration,” Nieto said.

The early registration also covers out-of-school youth including street children age 5 to 18.

Nieto said learners can enroll through the Alternative Learning System (ALS), a ladderized, modular non-formal education program in the country for dropouts in elementary and secondary schools.

The students must bring the report card they received from the last school they attended and a certification from their guardian or parents.

“If parents could not register their children on January 25, they could just visit the nearest public school near them for regular schedule of enrollment,” Nieto added.

The nationwide synchronized early registration is a regular program of the DepEd which started in 2009. (MCA/ JNP/PIA1-La Union)

NFNL Command Group: Commodore Nodolfo V. Tejada leads the Naval Forces Northern Luzon unit commanders, officers, key enlisted personnel, and civilian employees posed for a souvenir photo during the traditional New Year’s Call to Commander recently at the HNFNL Quarter Deck, Camp Ernesto Ogbinar, Poro San Fernando City. (Photo: VVillanueva-PIA1 LU)

BM Aragon Pushes for VAWC Seminar

Fire-free Holiday celebrations in Laoag

By Cesar S. Bucsit, PITO-La Union

By: Cherry Joy S. Discaya

The Provincial Government of La Union will soon conduct Seminar on Republic Act 9262 otherwise known as the Anti-Violence against Women and their Children Act of 2004. The move was recommended by Board Member (BM) Victoria L. Aragon, Chairperson of the Committee on Social Services, Women and Family Welfare and was approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during their regular session on Jan. 16, 2014.

BM Aragon emphasized in her privilege speech that their are a lot of new Barangay Officials as well as new Police Non-Commissioned Officers assigned in the different Municipal Police Station’s Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) in La Union. Thus she explained that there is a necessity to implement a program that will enhance their knowledge and strategies in handling situations and cases including the settlement of conflicts involving family matters, especially when life is already at stake. Performing a task in WCPD according to BM Aragon is a very sensitive, delicate and complicated function anent failure to give an appropriate pieces of advice is tantamount to the deprivation of the rights of the women or her children whose rights have also been violated.

LUPPO to Implement Iloko Code

By Israel O. Rudio, PITO-La Union

As one of the development partners of the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) led by Gov. Manuel C. Ortega, the La Union Police Provincial Office (LUPPO) will fully support the implementation of Sangguniang Panlalawigan Ordinance No. 026-2012, establishing Iloko as an official provincial language of La Union and institutionalizing its use in relevant sectors, alongside national and official languages.

This was bared by PSSUPT Ramon L. Rafael, LUPPO Director, last January 7 in an exclusive interview with the Provincial Information and Tourism Office (PITO). According to Rafael, the provincial ordinance will help make the police closer to the people as they will feel more welcome to police stations with the use of basic Iloco signage. “Nabibiit pay a matarusan dagiti tao ti trabaho mi a pulis agraman ti karebbenganda gapo ti panagusar ti pagsasao nga ammoda,” added Rafael.

LAOAG CITY, Jan. 9 (PIA) – For the first time in years, the Laoag fire bureau has achieved a zerofire incident during the Holiday revelries.

City Fire Marshall Bonifacio Sacatrapos said the bureau’s campaign for safe Holiday observance paid off as no fire incidents was called in during the revelries.

“The bureau’s effort (for fire-free observance) seems effective as evidenced by the zero fire incident during the break,” Sacatrapos said.

To ensure fire-free Holidays, the bureau conducted daily caravans in the villages echoing different fire safety ethics from December 16 until January 3.

“Our aim to achieve the zero-fire incident in welcoming the year 2014 has been granted. It was achieved with the cooperation of the different communities,” Sacatrapos said.

Aside from safety tips on fire prevention, the fire bureau also conducted ocular inspections on Christmas decorations to ensure that they are registered.

The bureau said Laoag had the most number of fire incidents in previous years. The incidents were brought down following the launch of the “Oplan Paalala: Anti-fire Incident” caravan in 2011.

Last year, the bureau recorded only one fire cracker-related incident.

“We are glad to have brought it down to zero and we aim to keep it this way,” Sacatrapos said.

(MCA/ CJDG PIA-1, Ilocos Norte)

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La Union Vibrant Women Inc. awards the checks amounting to P6,000.00 to one of their scholars in the Province. The LUVWI has been giving scholarship asssistance to indigent students who show exemplary performance in school.

(Photo by: Wendell B. Tangalin, PITO-La Union)

526 NEWLY-PROMOTED PRO1 COPS TAKE OATH CAMP BGEN OSCAR M FLORENDO- Five Hundred Twenty-Six (526) newly-promoted police personnel of Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1) composed of 64 Police Commissioned Officers (PCOs) and 462 Police Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCOs) assigned in different police units of Region 1 took their oath this morning (January 13) that coincided with the Traditional Monday Flag Raising ceremony held at PRO1 Grandstand here.

Police Senior Superintendent Moro Virgilio M. Lazo, Officer-In-Charge of PRO1 and Chairman of the promotion board said, of the PCOs, one (1) was promoted to Police Senior Superintendent (PSSupt.), four (4) to Police Superintendent (PSupt.), 12 to Police Chief Inspector (PCInsp.), 21 to Police Senior Inspector (PSInsp.) and 26 to Police Inspector (PInsp.)

The PNCOs were also composed of 32 promoted to Senior Police Officer 4 (SPO4), 34 to SPO3, 26 to SPO2, four (4) to SPO1, 337 to Police Officer 3 (PO3) and 29 to Police Officer 2 (PO2).

In his message, PSSupt. Lazo stressed to the promoted personnel that their promotion to the next higher rank has a corresponding responsibility and they need to continually seek self-improvement to adequately meet the demands of higher positions appropriate to their new ranks.

“Habang tumataas ang ating ranggo, kaakibat nito ang pagtaas din ng ating tungkulin. Dahil dito, dapat tayong maging mas maingat sa ating mga kilos, salita at mas masigasig sa pagtupad ng ating tungkulin,” the OIC, PRO1 added.

Based on records, a total of 570 personnel were applied for promotion, 37 were failed in the screening process such as Work, Behavior and Performance Appraisal, Drug Test, Physical Fitness Test and Final Board Interview, while seven (7) were waitlisted for the rank of Police Superintendent.

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Herbert Kohler Jr. gleefully accepts the gift of Gov. Imee, the traditional hat called “kattukong”. The hat is a sign of nobility and was historically worn by village and farmer leaders in Ilocos Norte. Kohler, president and chairman of the Kohler Company, best known for its plumbing products, together with his family dined at the Malacañang of the North in the town of Paoay last January 4, 2014 upon the invitation of Gov. Imee. Kohler flew directly from Australia to Ilocos Norte to explore investment opportunities here. (PGIN CMO Photo / Alaric A. Yanos. www.inorte.org)

Pamulinawen Festival XVIII: "STEADFAST" Written by Mr. Ramon B. Formantes

As we celebrate this year's Pamulinawen Festival with the theme: "Steadfast", we are faced with the challenges of a fast changing Laoag City in terms of socio-political and economic aspects.

The evolution of the Festival into a much anticipated spectacle of a multisectoral Laoag City, showcasing family and school reunions, beauty pageants, street dances, Balikbayan nights, Ilokano stage plays, to name a few, has been aptly defined and depicted in the previous celebrations of the Pamulinawen.

But more than the evolution of the Feast of St. William the Hermit, the Patron Saint of Laoag, which we are celebrating, the Pamulinawen Festival has become a reckoning time for the present administration in terms of accomplishments, and an oppurtunity for staging the Vission and Mission that it intends to pursue.

It is very critical and vital for this year as we are witnesses to the transition of a very successful administration of then Mayor Michael V. Fariñas to the present dispensation of Mayor Chevylle V. Fariñas. Very evident is the resolve of Mayor Farinas, the first ever lady Mayor of Laoag, in continuing and sustaining the legacy of her husbandpredecessor.

In the first six months of her administration, Laoag City was awarded the Most Business-Friendly City, Level 3 Category, given by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, for the second year in a row. Moreover, Laoag City was the recipient of the Lgu Award for Quality Corn Achiever by the Department of Agriculture, the Emerging Champ in our 2013 Search for the Best CHAMP (Catalytic HIV AIDS Mitigation Program) Program by the LGA, and more recently, relative to our celebration of the fiesta, the Pamulinawen Festival was adjudged the Champion in the Tan-ok ni Ilokano Festival of the Provincial Government, also for the second straight year!

In this world of male-dominated political arena, old cliches such as, "she's lucky in her new role", or that "she inherited it from her husband", or that "she will not be there for long", do not have much relevance or significance anymore. What is of utmost importance is Mayor Fariñas' role as a continuing catalyst in making Laoag City truly the Queen City of the North and the Northern Gateway of the Philippines.

In celebrating this year's Pamulinawen Festival therefore, let us savor and enjoy our blessings as there is a sense of continued security, optimism, and fervor in our midst.

Happy Pamulinawen Festival! Steadfast in friendship...in partnership...in alliance! (SOURCE: www.laoagcity.gov.ph)

Traditional industries at produkto pasisiglahin sa Ilocos Sur By: Ben P. Pacris VIGAN CITY, Enero 15 (PIA) – Ang bayong na sinaunang gamit noon ng mga Ilokano sa pamimili ng mga pangangailangan sa palengke ay muling bubuhayin at itataguyod ng pamahalaang probinsyal para mapangalagahan ang kapaligiran.

Ayon kay Bise- Gobernador Deogracias Victor “DV” Savellano, makakatulong na panlaban sa epekto ng climate change kung muling maibabalik at maitataguyod ang mga tradisyonal na bayong o basket.

“Maitataguyod na ang kultura at tradisyon ng mga Ilokano, makakatulong pa para mapangalagahan ang kapaligiran,” giit ni Savellano.

Sinabi ng dating gobernador na dapat itaguyod ang mga traditional industries at produkto ng mga Ilokano dahil ito rin ang One Town One Product (OTOP) ng ilang bayan at One barangay, One Product (OBAP).

Ang bayong ay yari sa dahon ng niyog o silag at ang basket ay gawa sa kawayan.

Dahil sa epekto ng climate change, maraming Local Government Units (LGU’s) ang nagbabawal sa paggamit ng mga plastic bag o pambalot na plastic sa merkado publiko at iba pang business establishments.

Kahit sa Heritage City ng Vigan, inaprobahan na ang ordinansa na nagbabawal sa paggamit ng plastic sa public market at mga groserya at sa halip ay ang paggamit ng tradisyonal na bayong o basket at papel na pambalot o paper bag.

Ang bayan ng San Vicente ay unti- unti na ring ipinapatupad ang pagbabawal ng plastic sa palengke para makatulong sa kampanya laban sa apekto ng Climate Change.

Nabanggit pa ni Savellano na dapat ding ibalik ang iba pang tradisyonal na gamit sa bahay tulad ng “aklo” o sandok na gawa sa coconut shell, ang “banga” o “karamba” na ginagamit sa pagluluto at paglagyan ng tubig. (MCA/BPP/PIA -1 Ilocos Sur)

SEARCH FOR THE BEST PRACTICES 2014: Mayor Zuriel S. Zaragoza (center) of the Municipality of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur poses with the members of the Regional Search Committee/ Field Validators composed of CSC, DILG, CHR, NEDA and PIA on January 8, 2014, Narvacan’s entry to the Search is entitled”Ingget Pateg Da Lelong Ken Lelang program”(A Holistic Care for the Senior Citizens program).

(Photo by: Danilo T. Role, PIA-1-La Union).

New tourism trail explores other side of Ilocos Norte By: Cherry Joy S. Discaya LAOAG CITY, January 21 (PIA) – There is more to Ilocos Norte than beaches and famous landmarks.

The provincial government has unveiled a new range of cultural heritage and eco-tourism through its new tour itinerary ‘Anaraar’.

‘Anaraar’ (meaning first glow in sky before the sun rises in the east) offers an exclusive tour in the eastern part of the province which includes the historical towns of Sarrat, Piddig, Dingras, Banna and Nueva Era. The trail features the heritage and architecture sculpted by the rich culture and history of the province and the ecocultural and lifestyle of the Ilocanos.

Ianree Raquel, provincial tourism officer said, the tour is a new approach in introducing another tourism product in the province.

“This tour will be different. You will not be seeing beaches which Ilocos Norte is known for. But we will be seeing lots of heritage which was preserved and delicately restored for everyone to see our rich history,” Raquel said.

The tour consists of the Sarrat Heritage Walk including the Marcos Birthplace, Sarrat Guesthouse, Sarrat Presidencia, Convent Ruins, Sarrat Central Elementary School, and famous Santa Monica Church.

Second stop is the origin of ‘Basi Revolt’ and home of another historical church, the St. Anne Chruch and the 15th Infantry Memorial honoring the heroes of World War II built at the town’s plaza.

Dingras the “Rice Granary of Ilocos Norte” is the third stop which features bricked ruins of the St. Joseph Church and museum and the Girl Scouts of the Philippines founder monument, Josefa Llanes Escoda.

A taste of gastronomic goodness in Banna will be a different experience with their authentic products from their homegrown root crops and their aromatic rice coffee and tea.

The town of Nueva Era, the last destination is known for its distinct Tingguian culture and practices.

Another world-class tourist destination here was launched on December 28 dubbed as “Tribal Village” This consists of huts and tree houses, to tribal costumes and dance, with canopy walk and greatest eco adventure and genuine tribal experiences.

“Nueva Era which has a very cool climate and unspoiled landscape fits as culminating area of the tour for relaxation and accommodation,” Raquel said.

Anaraar tour is made available for tourists by schedule with the Provincial Tourism Office. (MCA/CJDG/PIA-1, Ilocos Norte)

Ilocos Norte women convert old newspapers to saleable goods By: Cherry Joy S. Discaya LAOAG CITY, Jan. 15 (PIA) – A women’s group in Sarrat town is behind a collection of functional bags and home decors that were carved out of old newspapers.

The women applied the skills they learned from a paper craft training under the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office livelihood program.

Sarrat Sangguniang Bayan member Vivian Waay said the program aims to provide women an opportunity to earn income using craft and recyclable materials.

“This is very helpful on our part. Not only does this help us financially, it also makes our time worthwhile because we get to earn for our family,” Waay said.

Aside from earning cash, the women were also made aware on how to recycle and address problems on solid waste management.

The products made their way to boutique outlets that are housed in a commercial arcade in the capital city.

Back in 2012, a group of women from Baguio City also provided training which has since been replicated among other women in the province. (MCA/CJDG PIA-1, Ilocos Norte)

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LISTAHANAN: In a press conference on January 14 at Sea and Sky College, DSWD-1 assistant regional director Marlene D. Peralta stressed “Listahanan” is not a new program of the agency but a new brand name of the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR), the database of poor families who deserve to be beneficiaries of social protection programs and services from the government. (Photo by: VVillanueva/PIA1-La Union)

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By: Freddie G. Lazaro NUEVA ERA, Ilocos Norte, Jan. 1 (PIA) – Ilocos Norte has unveiled a new tourist destination depicting the indigenous arts, practices and cultures of the upland town Nueva Era. Dubbed “the Tribal Village” of Nueva Era, 39.8 km southeast of Laoag City, the tourist attraction was opened on December 28.

Rhea Rivera, the tourism officer of Nueva Era, said the village structures were inspired by facilities from tourism mecca Kota Kinabalo in Malaysia.

She said Nueva Era’s added values is its natural cool and fresh ambiance as the village was constructed under big trees beside Mount Sicapao, 500 meters east of the town hall.

She added the place is an excellent venue for picnic, adventure walk, mountain biking and other outdoor adventures.

The village has “tree houses” built on tree branches with connecting

wooden ladders and bridges.

A “canopy walk” was constructed between trees for added adventure activity at the site.

The village has attractive cottages and buildings made of indigenous materials.

It also boasts of a 25-meter swimming pool with clear and free– flowing water from the mountains.

Aside from the facilities, a cultural presentation on local community life will also captivate any tourist’s interest.

“The village is an excellent venue for canopy walk, mountain hiking, picnic, gathering or conferences,” Rivera said.

For her part, Governor Imee Marcos cited the Nueva Era tribal village as another place in the province that will draw attractions and entertainments.

She said that attractiveness of the place will encourage balikbayans and tourists to often visit the province.

(MCA/FGL PIA 1 – Ilocos Norte)

By: Joanne Namnama G. Parrocha SAN FERNANDO CITY, Dec. 30 (PIA) – The Philippine Specials Football Team bagged the gold in the recent Special Olympics 2013 in New Castle, Australia.

The country’s delegates, composed of mentally challenged athletes, competed in the 11-player and five-player categories.

Athletes in the 11-player category, composed of delegates from Baguio City and the National Capital Region, won the silver medal behind Bangladesh.

Players in the five-category, composed of athletes from La Union province, won the gold medal over American Samoa Speciao Olympics football team.

Joan Jean Chan, special education teacher from Aringay town and one of the 10 coaches for La Union, said the team won the gold as a result of players’ rigid training from June to November.

Winners in the Special

Olympics Asia-Pacific Games will qualify for the 14th Special Olympics Summer World Games in Los Angeles in 2015 Chan said they will prepare the athletes for the 2015 games hoping to emerge as champions again.

“We still have one and a half years to practice and we are praying for the best,” said Chan.

Chan, who has been teaching children with special needs for 12 years, said she will continue loving them unconditionally.

“When we show (them) love and care, they will also reciprocate that. They’re genuine. What you see is what you get,” Chan said.

The Asia Pacific Games was held from December 1-7 in Newcastle, Australia with 2,000 athletes, 600 coaches and officials, over 4,000 volunteers and an estimated 200,000 in attendance. (MCA/JNP/PIA1-La Union)

By: Joanne Namnama G. Parrocha SAN FERNANDO CITY, Jan. 20 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Ilocos eyes more poor households for enlistment this year under its new database system.

Formerly known as the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTSPR), the project has been renamed Listahanan which remains a source of accurate, complete, and reliable data on the poorest households nationwide.

Marlene Febes Peralta, DSWD Assistant Regional Director for Ilocos, said at least 928,633 households are targeted for assessment in Region 1 this year.

The assessment will be conducted simultaneously in 16 regions.

Peralta said some 2,294 field support staff will be deployed in both rural and urban villages as enumerators, area coordinators and area supervisors to conduct the data collection and assessment.

“They will be provided with an intense training to gather all the complete, true and accurate vital information of these households,” she said.

Peralta said the first round of household assessment was conducted in 2009 where 500,000 families in region 1 were evaluated as poor or nonpoor and at least 182,740 families were served under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

For 2014, the DSWD has allocated 112M for the Listahanan project.

“Listahanan makes sure that all poor families are included in the database, so in the end they become potential beneficiaries of various social protection programs leading them to an improved quality of life,” said Peralta.

At present, DSWD utilizes the database as a reference on its beneficiaries for programs, projects and services like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, Social Pension Program for indigent senior citizens, Cash/Food for Work and Sustainable Livelihood Program.

Other government agencies that use data from Listahanan are Departments of Agriculture, and Health, local government units and the PhilHealth.

Updating of the Listahanan database is done every four years. (MCA/JNP/PIA-1 La Union)

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Although running seems like a simple sport (just put on some shoes and go, right?), there's actually a pretty big learning curve. As you get started with running, you may feel nervous, insecure, and a bit overwhelmed. To help ease you into the sport and avoid some running blunders, here are 14 facts and tips that all runners should know.

1. Cotton is not a good fabric for running clothes. Running clothes have come a long way since the days of cotton shirts, short shorts, and bulky sweat pants that get wet with sweat and can cause chafing. Now they're made from synthetic fabrics such as spandex and polyester, which are much better than cotton at wicking away sweat.

Some fabrics are even odor-resistant, so you'll avoid being wet and stinky.

2. Taking a walk break is not cheating. I hear a lot of new runners say things like, "I don't want to have to walk!" as if walking is equivalent to throwing in the towel. Whether you're just going out for a run or you're in a race, there's no shame in taking a walking break. In fact, using a run/walk approach can be a very beneficial way to safely build your fitness and endurance.

8. You'll probably get injured at some point. Try to take a proactive approach to running and assume that you'll get injured at some point. You'll be more aware when your body is signaling that something is wrong. Runners who think they're inury-resistant will often ignore injury warning signs, push through pain, not take self-treatment steps, and end up making injuries far worse.

9. You should run against traffic. If you run on roads, make sure you're running in the opposite direction of cars. You'll be much safer if you can see cars coming at you rather than having them at your back.

In some areas, it's not even a matter of choice -- the law requires that runners and walkers face oncoming traffic.

Drivers have a lot of distractions and they may not see you until the last minute (or until it's too late), so stay clear of oncoming cars and never assume that a driver can see you.

10. You probably won't finish last. If you've never participated in a race before, you may have an overwhelming fear that you'll be the last person to finish. In reality, you probably have as much chance of 3. Wearing the right running shoes and sports bra makes a big finishing last as you do of finishing first. Most short-distance races difference. Wearing the right running shoes is the key to comfort (such as 5Ks) have a number of walkers participating, so if you're and injury prevention. Visit a running specialty store to get fitted for the planning to run or run/walk, you're most likely going to finish ahead of right running shoes for your foot type and running style. a bunch of walkers. And, even if you do finish last or close to last, be If you're a female runner, you'll feel a lot more comfortable and proud of being out there and crossing the finish line at all! You're still confident running in a well-fitting, supportive sports bra. ahead of all those people at home on their couches.

11. You shouldn't run at a steep incline for your entire treadmill 4. At some point during a run, you will have to use the bathroom run. As a new runner, you might be feeling ambitious and decide unexpectedly. If you have a fear of portable toilets or dingy you want to really challenge yourself by doing your entire treadmill run convenience store bathrooms, you may need to get over that soon. at a steep incline. But that much straight hill running is never a good Chances are that you'll have to duck into one or the other during a run idea and could lead to injuries. Think about it: Would you ever find a 3at some point. mile hill at a 5 or 6% incline? If you did, you probably wouldn't want to It's common for runners to have a sudden urge to use the run up it! bathrooms because they drank too much water before their run or You should avoid running at a steep incline for more than 5 or so they're suffering from dreaded runner's trots. When it happens to you, minutes. You'll get a much better, safer workout if you alternate don't be embarrassed that you had to interrupt your run for a potty between running a few minutes with an incline and running a few break – welcome to the club! minutes without an incline. Also, don't go above a 7% incline because 5. You won't get a side stitch from drinking water while running. it places too much strain on your back, hips and ankles.

Some beginner runners don't like to drink water while they're running because they're worried that they're going to get a cramp in their side 12. It's OK to throw a cup on the ground during a race. Watching (also known as a side stitch). Side stitches, which are usually a pain a 5K several years ago, I saw a runner take a cup of water off a table right below the rib cage, are not caused by drinking water. They're at the water stop and drink it as she kept moving past the table. I usually a result of not breathing properly. wouldn't have known she was a newbie until I saw her double-back If you're running 30 minutes or less, you don't need to drink water with the cup and place it back on the table. I admired her desire to not during a run. But if you're running longer than that, especially in litter, but her back-tracking caused a bit of chaos, as other runners warmer weather, you should be drinking water every 20 minutes or so. tried to dodge her. Just throw that paper cup on the ground! The race volunteers are there to pick up the cups, and you'll feel like a hard-core 6. Running does not give you a license to eat whatever you want. runner.

"You run marathons? You must be able to eat whatever you want!" is 13. Wear the race T-shirt after you've run the race. If you something I frequently hear from non-runners. While running does burn a lot of calories, it certainly doesn't give you license to eat participate in a race, you'll most likely get a T-shirt with the race name anything you want all day long. Some new runners learn this the hard on it. Wearing it is a great way to brag about doing the race, after way, when they actually gain weight after a couple months of regular you've completed it. So, in other words, pick another shirt to wear running. Figure out how many calories you need and focus on eating a during the race. Not only are there superstitions associated with healthy, balanced diet. wearing the race T-shirt in the race, but it also makes you look like a If you're trying to lose weight (or maintain your current weight), try rookie! And race T-shirts are often made of cotton, which is another keeping track of your exercise and calorie intake in a journal -- you'll reason why you shouldn't race in it (see item #1). get a better picture of how many calories you're actually burning and 14. Everyone was a new runner at one point. taking in. And tracking everything will make you think twice before eating lots of high-calorie, high-fat foods after runs.

You may feel a bit intimidated when you're around more experienced runners, whether you're running with them or just chatting about 7. A marathon is 26.2 miles. It's common to hear non-runners refer running. Try to remember that all runners were in your shoes at one to a race of any distance as a "marathon", as in, "I'd like to do one of point and they probably had someone who answered their questions those 5K marathons." If this is something you did before you were a and gave them support when they were first getting started. So don't runner, then now's a good time to stop that habit. A marathon, by feel silly if you ask questions. Most runners want to help! definition, is a 26.2 mile race. So only races that are 26.2 miles should By Christine Luff.(www.about.com) be called marathons. A half marathon race is 13.1 miles. Other races are also named by their distances, such as a 5K race (3.1 miles) and a 10K race (6.2 miles).