Mindanao Star (February 1-2, 2014)

Volume II, No. 183

web portal: www.businessweekmindanao.com Saturday-Sunday Feb. 1-2, 2014

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Mindanao Star The Purveyor of Truth, Justice and Development

DAR CPWASH project to cover 10 more municipalities in Misamis Occidental CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Community-Managed Potable Water Supply and Hygiene Project (CPWASH) implemented by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Misamis Occidental will be expanded to cover 10 additional municipalities for the year 2014.

The expansion program will include the municipalities of Jimenez, Calamba, Don Victoriano, Bonifacio, Clarin, Tudela, Sinacaban, Concepcion, Aloran, Lopez Jaena, Baliangao and Oroquieta City.

An orientation program for the ten municipalities was conducted on January 7, 2014 at the Naomis’ Botanical Garden, Ozamiz City. This was attended by municipal mayors, municipal engineers, people’s organization leaders and DAR Staff in the municipalities covered by the expansion program.

Norberto Quite of the Bureau of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development of the DAR Central Office and the DAR-10 Regional and Misamis Occidental Provincial Program Beneficiaries Development Divisions facilitated the activity.

CPWASH was first implemented by DAR in 2008 in selected agrarian reform communities (ARCs). This was conceptualized to install low-cost water supply technology and sanitation systems that primarily address the requirements on safe, clean and potable water for the agrarian reform beneficiaries in the ARCs. Water and sanitation facilities will be constructed in the different ARCs of the municipalities covered by the CPWASH expansion program. These include the construction of spring box collector, iron removal filters, rain water collector, biogas digester, and bios and filter.

CPWASH serves as a mechanism to raise the agrarian reform beneficiaSee project, page 7

BOOKS INSPECTION.

Misamis Oriental Vice Governor JOEY G. PELAEZ inspects the books donated by Children International Philippines Inc. (CIPI). He is accompanied by Ms. Gertrudes S. Gauiran, the Program Coordinator of CIPI. The shipment arrived last Jan. 11, 2014 via a 40-footer container van. These books will be distributed to the various elementary and secondary schools in the province. This is part of Vice Governor Pelaez’s advocacy of uplifting the competence of every student in the province by providing educational materials to various schools.

PRO-10 welcomes new chief

Police Chief Superintendent Isagani Francisco Genabe Jr. (3rd l-r), assumed the leadership as the new Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10. Genabe is not new to this region being the Provincial Director of Camiguin Provincial Police Office and the City Director of Cagayan de Oro City Police Office from 2008-2009. He is known as a hard worker, doer, and one who expects and demands results. pro-10

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Police Regional Office (PRO)-10 welcomes its newlyappointed Regional Director.

Police Chief Superintendent Isagani Francisco Genabe Jr, who formally assumed on January 28 the leadership as the new chief of PRO-10, is not new to this region being the Provincial Director of Camiguin Provincial Police Office and the City Director of Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) from 2008-2009. He is known as a hard worker, doer, and one who expects and demands results.

For his plans and programs, PCSupt Genabe vows to lead the whole police force to ensure peace, safety and security of the public in the region.

He said he will strive to maintain strong checkpoints and intensify crime prevention programs, more police actions and interventions on all forms of criminality, inventory and checking of search and rescue equipment and the readiness of Search and Rescue personnel, and checking of equipment and personnel of all maneuvering units.

Further, he will ensure police to be more visible in the streets for increased police presence whether on foot or mobile patrol.

Meanwhile, he reiterated the importance of the support from all the stakeholders and community in serving and protecting region 10. (PSupt Michael M Pareja/PRO-10/ PIA)

News calls for Dad wants DOTC to fast track Acenas preparedness as LPA installation of airport system approaches Normin

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Asst editor: ROLANDO N. SUDARIA • Email: rolando_sudaria2000@yahoo.com

THE City Council committee on laws and rules chaired by Councilor Ramon G. Tabor will soon tackle a proposed resolution urging the Department of Transportation a n d C o m mu n i c at i on s (DOTC) to fast track the installation of air navigational system and runway

lights at the Laguindingan Airport. This is to prevent or minimize said difficulties, delays and hassles brought about by bad weather condition.

C ou n c i l or L ou rd e s Candy Darimbang, chair of the committee on tourism, cited that since the airport was moved from

Lumbia to Laguindingan, airline passengers have been experiencing delays and cancellation of flights brought about by weather disturbances.

According to Darimbang, this affects tourism, the local economy and investment prospects of the city.

She stressed that it is the duty of the government to provide speedy, convenient and safe forms of public transport of the people.

The proposed resolution was favorably endorsed by the committee on public utilities chaired

by Roger G. Abaday.(JBD)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY --The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Region 10 (DENR 10) recently concluded its field assessment for the proposed establishment of a critical habitat for Philippine sailfin lizard (Hydrosaurus pustulatus), locally known as “ibid” in barangay Solana, municipality of Jasaan, Misamis Oriental.

The activity was conducted upon the request of Misamis Oriental Governor Yevgeny Vincente Emano.

Seeing the hefty population of sailfin lizard, the provincial government is keen on promoting the area as a new ecotourism site.

The assessment was spearheaded by the DENR regional office’s Protected

Areas and Wildlife Division with the Provincial/Community DENR offices and Misamis Oriental Provincial Government on January 8 and 9.

Forester Marilou Clarete, caretaker of the Protected Areas, Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Services (PAWCZMS) said all the data collected from the assessment will be evaluated to determine the coverage of the proposed critical habitat site.

Clarete stressed that the initial findings will also be discussed with the stakeholders in the area since the proposed site falls under alienable and disposable land.

The assessment team is likewise exploring the

possibility of implementing legal easement on both sides of the river where the population of sailfin lizard is observed, this will facilitate the population to thrive as well as aide in the establishment of the critical habitat.

Sailfin lizard (Hydrosaurus pustulatus) is endemic to the Philippines and is categorized under “other threatened species” based on Department Administrative Order No. 2004-15 of Republic Act 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act). The sailfin lizard is vulnerable and under threat from adverse factors. The adverse factors may range from over collection/hunting for both the pet trade for local or international consump-

tion, habitat loss, most often the conversion of wooded land to alternative uses (including agriculture), and through logging operations.

In region 10, a critical habitat was established for the Rafflesia schadenbergiana whose local name is “koron busaw” in sitio Kalanganan, barangay San Vicente, Baungon, Bukidnon. Aside from the Sailfin Lizard, DENR 10 has earlier proposed totheir Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) for the declaration of the hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) critical habitat in barangays San Isidro, Damayon, Sta. Cruz, Artadi, Kandiis, and all barangays of Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental.

(GThiam/RPAO/PIA)

DENR 10 conducts critical habitat assessment

Empower SMEs with ‘competitive mindset’ to play in ASEAN trade arena, says industry exec A vibrant manufacturing sector that is largely anchored on globally competitive small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will empower the Philippines to reap the benefits from the free and open regime of the

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Alfredo M. Yao, president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, lauded Filipino conglomerates for leading the way in opening up more export

No.: 09161714813 (GLOBE)

destinations within the ASEAN. In his welcome remarks at the recent ASEAN Comprehensive Investment Agreement (ACIA) Forum, he named some of these companies as those behind Zesto flavored drinks, AirAsia Zest travel service, Hapee toothpaste, EQ diapers, Alaska milk, and Jollibee fast foods.

“But from the onset they are the bigger Filipino companies with more resources and business connections,”

Yao pointed out. “What we need is to redound the competitiveness mindset, the drive for excellence and the pursuit to produce quality products to our small and medium enterprises.”

He urged the government and private sector to work together in giving smaller firms the same opportunity and capability to “break barriers” in tapping overseas markets.

“Whether they will be direct suppliers or particiSee empower, page 7

VICE MAYOR CAESAR IAN E. ACENAS is urging Kagay-anons to always be alert and be prepared. This in the wake of reports that another low pressure area (LPA) is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility this afternoon or evening.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that the LPA will enter the PAR as a tropical cyclone, which will intensify into a tropical depression.

As of 10:00 AM today, the center of Tropical Depression was estimated at 1,140 km east of Mindanao, according to the report.

The vice mayor said the weather disturbance is expected to bring heavy rain, which may cause flooding in some parts of the city The vice mayor is calling on those who are living in flood and landslide-prone areas to always monitor advisories and be ready to relocate if needed.

He said precautionary measures should be in place as he expresses hopes that there will be zero casualties in the city and every city to be hit by the weather disturbance.

Operation of river taxis under study The proposal of Liceo de Cagayan’s Safer River Life Saver to renew its franchise to operate river taxis in the

city is being studied by the City Council committee on public utilities chaired by Councilor Roger Abaday.

During the meeting yesterday, a representative of SRLF said there are two river taxis that are operable.

He said the proposed route of the river taxis will be from Liceo port to Macabalan and vice-versa.

He said the main purpose of the river taxis will be for eco-tourism and environmental awareness of students of Liceo de Cagayan University.

REQUIREMENTS A representative of Marina said RA 9295 requires the issuance of certificate of public convenience (CPC), which authorizes the operation of all kinds of vessels in domestic shipping.

He said Marina has not received any application for CPC, as of press time.

The law also requires passenger insurance coverage, life jackets corresponding the number of passengers, and others, said the Marina official.

Councilor Abaday said aside from this, Safer River Life Saver must also submit its justification on the proposed fare to be imposed to passengers.

The committee said this will be tackled again upon completion of requirements.

Councilor Adrian L. Barba also attended the meeting yesterday.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The city of Cagayan de Oro is set to host the first Tourism Jingle Festival here on May 2014 at the Atrium, Limketkai Mall.

City Councilor Lourdes Candy Darimbang, chair of the City Council committee on tourism, also announced that there will be a Tourism Video Competition where talents can show of their

skills in composing original jingles and videos that will feature Cagayan de Oro City.

The winning participants will receive huge prizes and their entries will be heard over local radio and television stations, major hotels and restaurants, at the airport and bus terminals, said the lady councilor.

The city has partnered

Oro set for Tourism Jingle Festival

See oro, page 7

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News

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DOT 10 to hold Pasundayag NorMin CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Aimed at promoting Northern Mindanao as a great local destination in the country, the Department of Tourism Region 10 (DOT-10) will travel to IloIlo on February 16 to 22, to hold its annual promotion project entitled ‘Pasundayag’ Northern Mindanao.

‘Pasundayag’ is the yearly major regional promotion project of the Department of Tourism Region 10 together with the Northern Mindanao Regional Tourism Council (NMRTC) since 2003, according to DOT-10

Carlston Maglangit during the Philippine Information Agency 10 (PIA-10) weekly radio program Lambo Dyes at DXIM radio Ng Bayan on Friday.

“This is its first time in the Visayas and we specifically selected Iloilo City due to the growing interest of the milieu and our objective of capturing the market,” Maglangit said.

With the theme this year is “Bridging Cultural Diversities Amid Challenges,” he explained that this was the theme chosen since recent disasters and natural calamities in Visayas and Mindanao proved to be a

huge challenge in gaining tourists. But, despite these unfortunate events, we do not stop from promoting and pursuing travelling especially in local tourism.

Further, this activity should promote domestic tourism, effect increase in arrivals, focus the potentials of key destinations, integrate value of the region’s cultural endowments in tourism promotion, and continue the yearly conduct of the project, he said.

T h e y h av e a l re a d y Norberto Quite of the DAR Central Office discusses important points during the CPgathered participants for WASH orientation for the 10 municipal LGU and PO officers in Misamis Occidental. photo supplied this event including Local Government Units (LGUs)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The city of Cagayan de Oro intensifies its campaign against illegal drugs and illegal gambling.

In a special report during the recent regular session presided by Vice Mayor Caesar Ian Acenas, Councilor Rogey G. Abaday urged the barangay councils to intensify the campaign and stressed that illegal gambling and drugs are the main problems that the government, police and agents of the law want to stop.

He said elected barangay officials took their oath and were well-reminded of their role to fight against all forms of lawlessness such as illegal drugs, illegal gambling, illegal logging, human trafficking, terrorism, child abuse, prostitution, corruption and recently reported pornography and cyber crime involving minors.

According to Councilor Abaday, there is a strong possibility that the city is one of the trading centers of these illegal activities.

He said barangays should be strong barriers against these illegal activities and all lawlessness in their respective areas of jurisdiction.

In view of this, Abaday proposed a resolution designating ABC President Councilor Yan Lam Lim as the czar in the intensified campaign against illegal activities.

Vice Mayor Acenas referred this to the committee on police, fire and public safety chaired by Councilor Ramon Tabor for appropriate action. (JBD/CdeOSP/PIA)

By Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat

Misamisnon wins 1st Place Intensified campaign vs illegal in 2013 National Leksyong drugs, gambling in Oro pushed Sagisag Kultura Competition See dot, page 7

By Rutchie CabahugAguhob

O R O Q U I E TA C I T Y, Misamis Occidental -Teacher Joemar Yorag of the Bolisong Elementary School, Bonifacio town, Misamis Occidental, has won 1st place in the 2013 National “Leksyong Sagisag Kultura (LSK)” Competition.

A lesson planning competition for teachers, particularly, in Music, Arts, Physical Education and Health (MAPEH), the na-

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Conducted under the “Diwang: Sagisag ng Kultura sa Filipinas (DSKF)” project of NCCA and DepEd, the LSK focused on the icons or heroes, places, food, and plants that are found in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, the Pigcarangan Elementary School, from Tubod town, Lanao del Norte, also from Region 10, won 2nd place in the 2013 National Sagisag Kultura in Rap for Elementary Pupils

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tional level LSK was recently held at the Hiyas ng Bulakan Convention Center, Malolos Bulacan, Dr. Ingrid D. Racoma, Regional Director of the Department of Education, Region 10, said.

Participants of LSK are School Teachers teaching in any subject area of the MAPEH, who are scholars sponsored by the National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) and required to make a detailed Lesson Plan in any of the subject areas that are actually taught

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Opinion Word on fire

Bro. Edcel L. Closas

Dead Special Gospel of the day: Matthew4:1822(February1, 2014-Saturday) Matthew 4:18-22And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left [their] nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James [the son] of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him: This gospel reminds us to follow Jesus without “fear” and hesitation like His disciples. This is contrary to the persons that Jesus invited to work in the kingdom of God. In Luke 9:59-62-and he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. How about you, are you serving God? Take note, it is not easy to help in building the kingdom of God here on earth. In Mark 8:34-And when he had called the people [unto him] with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Can you do this? Printing paid by: Neneth - Bobong Balino- Dr. Edith, PhD- Tony Jordan - CDO. St. Peter Calungsod, pray for us! Listen: Radio Ultra AM-1188-3:30 PM - Sunday: #09284149490-09266607505: Question – Prayer request: Please follow me “WORD ON FIRE” on CCTN channel 12-CDO @ 10 PM- Mondays and Tuesday @ 3:30 PM. God loves you!!!

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Member: ORO CHAMBER

sat-sun | february 1-2, 2014

Problems Mean Progress Think a minute…

What’s your problem?

You know that not all problems are bad? In fact, having problems sometimes means you’re making progress. A big hardware business moved into the same building with another, small hardware store. The big hardware competitor posted signs all over the building that read: “Grand Opening.” So not to be beat, the owner of the small hardware business posted a big sign over his store that read: “Main Entrance.” It’s successful people who know that their biggest obstacles often become their biggest opportunities. As one smart man said: “The same big stone that’s an obstacle to

Think A Minute Jhan Tiafau Hurst a weak person is a steppingstone to success for a stronger person.” The difference is in their attitude and response.

Remember, you are not the only person with problems. Even the lion has to fight off flies! So “Don’t be afraid to face the music just because you don’t like the tune.” Many years ago,

American farmers carried their potatoes in wagons to the market. As their wagons bounced along on the rough, bumpy roads, the big potatoes were always the ones that ended up on top. And it’s usually the same with people. It’s the people with bigger hearts of faith and perseverance who end up on top, after getting

over their life’s bumps and problems.

There’s a saying: “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” Yes, problems may detour you and take you off course for a little while, but only you can choose to stop moving ahead. Sometimes we think that our temporary problems are permanent. But if you stay patient and positive, then the end of your problem will become the beginning of your new season of success.

So why not ask Jesus Christ to take charge of your heart every day. It’s only with Him on your side, and His peace and power in your life, that you can turn every problem into progress.

Just Think a Minute

“LIARS DON’T GO TO HEAVEN”

This just crossed my mind.

Assuming it was former CJ Corona who was the one who sent someone of high rank to secretly pick up a senator-juror, put him in the car back seat to hide him from the entrance guards, brought him to his home for breakfast and talked to him about the impeachment case and appealed to him to resist all pressure, would Malacanang consider this as correct and proper? If you ask President Aquino, who did exactly just that, that’s perfectly all right!

Oh boy!

I may have my own share of mistakes and bad judgments when I was a lawyer practising law. But old-fashioned values -- like “delicadeza” or sense of propriety -- taught us that if I had a case before a judge, I would take special effort in not clandestinely knocking alone on his chamber

Advocacy Mindanao Jess Dureza door, unless my opposing companero was with me.

The social circles of Davao City then was not so big that I would usually bump into and chat with judges before whose sala I had pending cases. Of course I also took special efforts in befriending them, for obvious reasons. However, me driving and getting a judge sit in the back seat and bringing him to breakfast to specifically talk about a case before him -- however “lofty” the intentions are -- is unthinkable and way out of line by any standard.

Sec. Mar Roxas, now famous

for his clandestine driving services, will definitely disagree with me.

In other jurisdictions, if one juror (senators were jurors during the impeachment) is caught even just talking with another person about the case, this can be basis for his discharge or removal from the jury.

If the breach is serious, it can be ground for a mistrial.

To now say that impeachment is “political” in nature and therefore justifies some lobbying is pure baloney!

Worse, several senators, especially from the opposition, admitted that

they were “picked up” in the same way but professed righteousness, without compunction. C’mon guys, be real! Worst is the case of Senator Bong Revilla who would not have exposed it were it not for his own tragic and shameful predicament.

Sorry, but his theatrics did not impress me!

And now, the President no less admitting the presidential caper but saying he did not influence Sen. Revilla; that nothing was done to unduly influence the Senate vote, although it was public knowledge that on many occasions the President minced no words in wanting that CJ Corona be forever banished from the bench.

But was it by mere coincidence that per records, some opposition senators got millions from the President just before the See dureza, page 7

Two residents back up Camiguin bridge At least two prominent residents of the province echoed their concern and support of the idea about installing a long bridge that will connect from Camiguin province to the mainland more specifically in the town of Kinogitan, Misamis Oriental. Atty. Jerry Pacuribot, a prominent law practitioner in Metro Manila, who hails from Kinogitan town, said there will be an unparallel business boom in the two provinces of Camiguin and Misamis Oriental if such idea is realized. He compared the link to that of Mactan island and Mandaue where the economic situations of the places zoomed up rapidly after two bridges were installed. Atty. Pacuribot also said that travel time from Camiguin to Cagayan de Oro will be only one and a half hours.

Engr. Apolinar Ramiro who holds a masters degree in civil and sanitary engineering, voiced his support on the issue and even revealed that he wrote a letter

The Striker

Ben Emata Jr. to the provincial governors of the two provinces some years ago suggesting the installation of such MORCAM bridge. He cited that Camiguin has a large deposit of geothermal resources and with the bridge, we can erect transmission poles to harness electric power. Some Misamis Oriental residents who are now immigrants in America, welcomed the idea and they wished such thing will be realized. They pointed out that Mindanao lags behind in terms of projects and if this bridge is installed, there is something the Mindanaoans could be proud of.

It can be recalled that Camiguin island with all its towns used to be part

of Misamis Oriental until it became a regular province.

And if such a bridge will be installed to connect the two provinces, it is expected many big corporations, industries and factories will put up their enterprises in the area. Right now the island is one of the best tourist places in the country with hundred of Europeans Americans and other races enjoying the place. It has white sands, cool natural water spring, volcanic sceneries and destructions, underwater cemetery and dozens others.

Another thing cited by some local residents is the treacherous water between the island and the province of Misamis Oriental. Cruis-

ing the places in the afternoon pose so much risks since strong winds normally create huge waves that had sent many small sailboats to the water. The channel is home of many killer sharks.

They challenged the national leadership about putting up the San Juanico bridge that is not so often used by heavy traffic. In the case of Camiguin, the island Is not so far from the mainland and it has so many people in the area including tourists.

For the moment, the best thing that we can do is to talk with or write letters to our congressmen, senators and public officials in Mindanao to support the idea of putting up a bridge for the betterment of the entire island. We urge Senator Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. to lead such project with full support from the people of the province and the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Gingoog. We should join hands and be united for this province. (benemata@ yahoo.com)

sat-sun | february 1-2, 2014

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News

Governance reforms strengthen agri projects under $3M AusAID grant MALAYBALAY CITY -- To better serve rural communities with critical infrastructure projects, governance reforms must be strengthened at the local government units (LGUs) and project implementation level, said Lealyn Ramos, program director for Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP).

“Instituting governance reforms is important in improving the delivery of agriculture projects and enables a stronger investment climate in the countryside,” she said.

She added it will also improve revenue and accountability mechanisms that will enable LGUs to prioritize delivery of agricultural projects and spur development in the countryside.

Under the US$3-million grant by the Australian Agency for International

development (AusAID), activities that will build local capacities in project implementation is seen to institute governance reforms in implementing agriculture projects under the MRDP. Ramos said capacity building activities in the form of trainings and technical assistance (TA) have been conducted with the aim of enhancing the delivery of agriculture services and productivity through value chain.

At the project implementation level, the TA continues to strengthen the planning and management process for local subproject investments ensuring that projects adhere strictly to compliance measures and procurement processes.

Among the trainings conducted under the grant include financial management and procurement

MISAMIS ORIENTAL -The National Food Authority (NFA) in Misamis Oriental strengthens its campaign on disaster preparedness to the local government units (LGUs), particularly on NFA Rice Loan Program.

Dr. Rafael V. Marasigan, Provincial Manager, NFA MisOr, said they have been conducting series of brief-

ing on Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on its rice loan program to LGUs of Misamis Oriental and the five municipalities of Northern Bukidnon which are under its operational jurisdiction: Talakag, Manolo Fortich, Libona, Baungon and Malitbog.

The MOA, once executed between parties, would allow LGUs to purchase

See grant, page 7

NFA MisOr intensifies disaster preparedness campaign through rice loan program NFA rice on credit for the following purposes: relief operations whenever a state of calamity is declared in their locality; and for stock piling in preparation of eventualities or emergencies that may occur at any given time, said Marasigan.

Although NFA has conducted said briefing last year, still we send letterrequests with an enclosed

“Reply Slip” for them to mail back to NFA informing us whether they are willing to renew the MOA for the next three years, “still interested” or “not interested” to avail of the program. The letter request will also allow us to know if an LGU is willing to have a briefing on the program or MOA during their scheduled Sangguniang Pambayan/Panglungsod/

SLUG: Conclusion of MILF-GPH talks does not spell the end of Moro revolutionary struggle -- NDFP

By Cheng OrdoÑez

A mid ju bi l at i on a n d euphoria on the recent signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) - Mindanao Chapter has cautioned stakeholders in the Moro struggle not to lose sight of the fundamental causes of the problems that saddle the Moro people, even as it says that the conclusion of the talks does not necessarily mean an end to the Moro revolutionary struggle.

The statement was issued by Jorge Madlos, alias Ka Oris, spokesman of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines – Mindanao Chapter.

Ka Oris said the signing of the CAB is crucial because, no matter what agreement is forged, if feudal and semi-feudal

bondage is imposed upon the Moro people by Imperialist Manila, no significant change is forthcoming.

He said that without revolutionary change, the Moro people’s aspirations for a real autonomy remain elusive, and worsen by the prejudices hurled against the Moro people in Mindanao.

Ka Oris claimed that “majority of the Moro people continue to be victims of landlessness, and the natural wealth of their ancestral lands and waters, such as the Liguasan Marsh, including their vast plains, will surely be target for plunder both by the domestic and multinational corporations.”

He said the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro does not address the more basic issues and instead settled on the “pacifist power and palliative economic sharing

that will only benefit a few traditional elite Moro leaders’ circle and their imperialist boss,” as what history has witnessed with the result of the MNLFGRP agreement.

He says the intent of the government to pacify the Moro Islamic Liberation Front may have partly succeeded, but not the Moro struggle as a whole; In fact, while the negotiations are going on, skirmishes on the field have intensified, Ka Oris said.

The fighting, he said, “will only lead to solidify the actions of all Moro armed resistance outside of the MILF into one potent force that shall continue the Moro struggle for genuine self-determination and will wedge a substantial AFP force into fierce combat.”

Ka Oris warned that should the military pursue their subjects within

Muslim areas with force, like what is happening in North Cotabato, Mindanaoans cannot expect strategic or long-term peace in Mindanao.

If that happens, he said, “the fighting between government and Moro resistance forces is expected to escalate, because conditions remain unchanged and will even worsen, as can be gleaned from lessons learned from the MNLFGRP agreement.”

Ka Oris also gave the Moro people an unsolicited advice: “The Moro resistance movement must clearly adhere to the more basic demands of the Moro peasants and for the defense of their ancestral lands, and that they must closely coordinate their struggle with the Filipino struggle, as a whole,” to avoid the situation that put the MNLF into where it is now.

Panlalawigan Session, he added.

So far, briefing was conducted already for the municipality of Alubijid last January 20. On the other hand, the municipality of Naawan already gave positive feedback on the MOA and pledged to comply with the requirements for submission to NFA. With this advocac y

on disaster preparedness, LGUs can be assured of immediate access to good quality NFA rice in times of emergencies/calamities, whether it be man-made or natural, that may hit Misamis Oriental province and the neighboring municipalities of Northern Bukidnon, Marasigan cited.

(Marianne C. Tapongot, PIO/NFA-MisOr/PIA)

Exporters welcome the weakening of the Philippine peso, saying this will make their products cheaper abroad and thus more competitive in the global market.

“It is now a welcome relief that the peso is beginning to depreciate. Am sure a lot of exporters are now happier not to mention the OFWs (overseas Filipino workers),” said Erdy Feliciano, vice president of PHILEXPORT Region III. Feliciano said exporters can enjoy a “little bit” of a

positive bottomline with the depreciation of the local currency.

“We can be more aggressive on pricing which eventually mean more business and jobs in the long run,” he said.

“It’s good news for the industry. This will give enough cushion for our industry. (This is a) very good timing as exhibitors are now preparing for the furniture buying circuit,” said Salvio Valenzuela, executive

Exporters welcome competitive peso

See welcome, page 6

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6

sat-sun | february 1-2, 2014

Handicraft firms see 4% to 10% growth in 2014

Institutional capacity building key to PHL standards harmonization in ASEAN priority sectors capacity building and institutional development,” said Veredigna Ledda, the supervising research specialist of Philippine Institute and Development Studies (PIDS).

In a Policy Notes, Ledda said ASEAN’s standards and conformance initiatives will extend beyond 2015 and

Welcome...

our materials. But being a part of the SME (small and medium enterprise) group, this is not felt as much since we only exchange dollars for what we need usually for a weeks’ worth of operation,” said Cris Venzon, president of PHILEXPORT Region III. Venzon said that apart from helping improve a company’s cash flow, buyers will be induced to buy more since they can purchase more for their greenback.

Cecille Ramos, chairman of the board of the Meycauayan Jewelry Industry Association Inc. (MJIA), noted that earnings are higher if exporters do not import raw materials.

“Our product is more competitive in the world market because labor cost is lower because there is less dollars to be converted to pesos to be spent for labor,” she said.

Ramos said more sales create and save jobs in the country.

Dennis Orlina, Director of the Philippine Chamber of Handicraft Industries (PCHI), said the sector generally welcomes the weakening of the peso with a “crossed finger” attitude and hope that his does not have adverse effects on local prices.

The peso since last week has been weakening beyond 45 per dollar for the first time since 2010. The local unit finished at 45.20 on Jan. 29. -- Danielle Venz, PHILEXPORT News and Features

from page 5

ecutive director of the Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines (CFIP).

He said the government can maintain this level to avoid abrupt strengthening of the peso in the future. “(This will) protect price points set by exporters,” Valenzuela reasoned.

“There is of course a positive effect on our cash flow particularly if we don’t have to import much for Republic of the Philippines Department of Transportation and Communications LAND TRANSPORTATION FRANCHISING AND REGULATORY BOARD Region X, Cagayan de Oro City ALONTO SALAHUDIN –Appropriation Case No; 2014-10-182 Applicant/s

NOTICE OF HEARING

APPLICANT(s)/Petitioner(s) request authority For issuance of certificate of public convenience to operate TAXI Airconditioned service on the line ;within Cagayan de Oro City to any point in Region X with the use of ONE (1)units.

This application/petition shall be considered by this Board on February 6, 2014, 10;00 A.M. at this Board on which date Applicant(s)Petition(s) shall formally submit his/her evidence.

The Applicant(s)/Petitioner(s) shall publish said notice at least FIVE(5) days prior to the date of hearing in the daily newspaper of general circulation in Mindanao Island.

Party(ies) opposed to the approval/granting of the application/petition must file his/her/their written opposition with supporting document, unless this Board deems it necessary to require additional document evidence and/or his/her/ their oral testimony(ies).

N.B. FAILURE TO APPEAR AT THE SCHEDULED DATE AND TIME OF HEARING SHALL MEAN THE DISMISSAL OF THE APPLICATION/PETITION.

WITNESS THE HONORABLE MANDANGAN P. DARIMBANG, CESO V, Regional Director, this 30th day of January, 2014.

SOLAYMAN B. MACATOON, JR. Hearing Officer MS: Feb. 1, 2014

are expected to continue to drive change in related policies in the Philippines.

She said the Philippines has been actively developing national standards for the majority of the identified priority sectors, and a number of these standards are already equivalent to international benchmarks.

To build institutional capacity needed for standards and conformance in the country, Ledda stressed that the passage of the 2009 Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) Act that led to the still ongoing reorganization at the Department of Health (DOH) is an “important, positive step.”

The new law confers important powers on the FDA, including the power to immediately recall, ban or withdraw health-related products that do not pass safety standards or are found to be hazardous.

The agency is also empowered to conduct postmarket surveillance procedures such as inspection of manufacturing and storage facilities for compliance.

Apart from strengthening existing infrastructure, Ledda said increasing the technical expertise of the country’s regulatory and standards agencies will equip them to more fully support local firms, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and those seeking to explore markets abroad.

She said that among other steps, new sources of funding could be found for training activities that were previously sponsored by donor agencies and ASEAN dialogue partners.

“Domestic firms as well as foreign companies selling their goods in the Philippines would then benefit from administrative and

Orlina underscored the need to establish a more cost efficient supply chain and logistics.

He said recent calamities which hit the Visayas region late last year affected the sector more critically in the supply line of raw and semi-process raw materials and displaced first-tier suppliers of semi-finished products.

Orlina said industry players are also contending with high cost of production like labor, utilities and transaction costs in doing business.

“Perhaps moving present operations to a regional setting will lower cost of operations, thus generally help improve financials,” he added.

Orlina said more aggressive product development is also imperative.

“The search for a “new” material (environmentally sound and compliant intervention) is desired. The sector needs to set in place a more aggressive value chain development strategy,” he noted. -- Danielle Venz, PHILEXPORT News and Features

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As 2015 ASEAN integration nears, the Philippines needs to undertake initiatives for building institutional capacity to strengthen its harmonization efforts towards ASEAN standards and conformance programs.

“The way forward for standards and conformance in the Philippines lies in

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BRIDGE MADE PASSABLE. Mambayan Bridge in Balingasag is now passable. Misamis Oriental Governor Bambi Emano’s effort in dumping sand and gravel to temporarily connect Barangays Mandangoa and Mambayaan in the town of Balingasay was fruitful.

Local handicraft makers are maintaining a four to 10-percent growth target for 2014, banking on increased demand for local products due to the rising cost in China.

Dennis Orlina, Director and former president of the Philippine Chamber of Handicraft Industries (PCHI), said that “market realities” are expected to boost the industry’s growth this year despite the impact of recent calamities on the supply chain resulting in higher sourcing cost.

“Market realities e.g. consumers demanding “new products” outside of those made in China, increase of cost of production in China and the general decision of China to move towards service-oriented industries will drive increase,” he said.

Orlina said the industry achieved its aggressive 10-percent growth target last year.

“The perceived decision for regular buyers to continue sourcing from the Philippines continued,” he noted.

To boost export sales,

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procedural efficiencies, which may result in lower transaction costs and quicker time to market goods,” she noted.

Moreover, Ledda said robust and well-functioning

regulatory agencies would be better prepared to safeguard public interest and create recognition of the importance of standards.

-- Danielle Venz, PHILEXPORT News and Features

News

sat-sun | february 1-2, 2014

Project... from page 1

ciaries’ awareness and appreciation on the relationship of water, health and poverty as they are closely linked to each other. The project will augment the existing barangay water supply facility and will also improve the barangay health and sanitation program. (AVQuicoy/ ERS, DAR-10/PIA)

Empower... from page 2

pants in the supply chains, we need to empower our SMEs to be able to participate in this ASEAN milieu of trade openness.”

Yao cited an Asian Development Bank (ADB) study which noted that “historically, no economy has reached high-income status without reaching at least 18 percent share of manufacturing in output and employment for a sustained period.”

Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam have developed their industrial sectors to contribute more than 40 percent to total output, “making industry and manufacturing a development backbone.”

In contrast, experts say that despite rising income, the Philippines’ economic trajectory is one where the share of industry to total output has been declining.

The ADB study, entitled “Key Indicators for Asia and the Pacific 2013,” says the Philippines has had less success in building a manufacturing sector as a result of internal and external crises, narrow export specialization, import dependence, a shallow knowledge base, flawed incentive and regulatory structures, and weak science and technology policies, among others.

In an article titled “Why Is Manufacturing Being Neglected?” economist Benjamin Diokno noted a reduction in the share of manufacturing to total output in the country, from 23.5 percent in 1998 to 20.4 percent in 2012. “The shrinking share of Philippine manufacturing ought to be reversed,” he said.

To support the sector, Yao said public-private partnership is needed to implement domestic reforms geared toward “increased competitiveness, economic expansion, and jobs creation through quality investments and strong, diverse, economically viable industries and enterprises.”

The ASEAN market is shaping up to be an economic powerhouse with a US$1.2 trillion consumer market of 600 million people, or nine percent of the world’s population. It boasts a growing middle-income class with an expanding appetite for a wide range of products, such as electronics and gadgets, cars, and services related to education, health, and leisure.

The ASEAN continues to attract foreign investments,

generating a record $114 billion in foreign direct investment inflow in 2011, a 23 percent increase over 2010.

The message is clear, stressed Yao: “If we harness and strengthen our manufacturing industry, we will create more jobs, encourage the domestic expansion of our industries in the value chain, and create more niches and value additions for our entrepreneurs to pursue wealth creation.” - Romelda Ascutia, PHILEXPORT News and Features

Oro...

from page 2

with GMA Network Inc. for these activities.

Meanwhile, Councilor Darimbang is expected to grace the opening of the ‘Pasundayag’ Northern Mindanao to be held in Iloilo City from February 16 to 23.

The lady councilor was invited by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to represent the city in the said activity.

Pasundayag is an annual major regional promotion project of DOT together with the Northern Mindanao Regional Tourism Council (NMRTC) since 2003. (CdeOSP/PIA)

DOT... from page 3

Northern Mindanao, private sector such as local producers of food products, handicrafts, accommodation, transportation and hospitality services, exhibitors particularly in the cities and provinces of Northern Mindanao and Cultural Performers from Schools, Colleges and Universities.

In the end, this activity intends to achieve its goal in business matching with partners from Region 10 and Region 6, increase tourist arrivals, utilize tourism products, create goodwill to both Regions creating Tourism Competitiveness in terms of services, product developments and possible increase of Job Opportunities, strengthen the Cagayan de Oro City – Iloilo City Route and create of new tour packages. (JMOR/PIA10)

Wins... from page 3

Contest, also under the DSKF with the same focus of the LSK with the addition of the handicraft, industry and products that are found in the region, Likewise, Christian Anasco, a student of the Manolo Fortich National High School, Manolo Fortich town in Bukidnon, won 3rd place in the 2013 Sagisag Kultura Kwiz (Quiz) Contest for Secondary Students, Mindanao Cluster, the contents of which also focused on the same items of the LSK. On the other hand, five LSK Mindanao Island Cluster Winners received P5,000 pesos each: Joemar Yorag and Vincent Roy R. Sadicon, from the Misamis Oriental

Comprehensive High School (MOGCHS), Cagayan de Oro City, both of Region 10.

Joyce Ozaraga, Galas National High School, Dipolog City, and Julieta S. Inte, San Miguel Elementary School, both of Region IX and Richard Moral, Koronadal National CHS, Region XII. (RCA/PIA10-Misamis Occidental)

Grant... from page 5

course for LGUs aimed at improving the bidding process of rural infrastructure projects. Focus was also given on management of environmental resource and in sustaining livelihood projects.

Training on Social and Environmental Safeguards (SES), which aims to ensure that people and the environment are not adversely affected by the MRDP projects, have been conducted for LGUs particularly the Program Planning, Monitoring and Implementing Units (PPMIUs), a mechanism introduced by the MRDP to improve project implementation capabilities at the local level.

The recent AusAID evaluation report on the grant reported that LGUs need to improve existing investment codes and policy guidelines in implementing projects.

There is also a need for more capacity building activities and support to LGUs to fully take advantage of public-private partnership (PPP) scheme, Ramos added.

To enhance agricultural services and productivity, trainings and mentoring on Value Chain Analysis (VCA) will be conducted for LGUs as well as on product development and value-adding schemes for agri-fishery products.

“Capability building activities are critical in ensuring that the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the LGUs effectively deliver services and fulfill the project requirements in a timely manner and competent quality thereby increasing the project’s sustainability,” Ramos said.

Institutional governance reform (IGR) is one of the components under the second phase of MRDP. The program implements rural infrastructure and agricultural productivity enhancement projects and natural resource management interventions.

It has also formed different Community-based Monitoring Evaluation Group (CBMEG) to bolster community involvement in the implementation of projects, strengthen community ownership, and increase project accountability. Through the 1,125 CBMEGs formed in various barangays in six regions covered by the Program, it is aimed that project monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is mainstreamed at the community level.

In 2011, the Program launched geo-tagging as a transparency measure which allows the capturing of photographs of projects and uploading it and other relevant information to Google Earth to enhance the monitoring and supervision of projects.

It strengthened the information network of DA and LGUs through various trainings, which led in the documentation of success stories to highlight the change process in the project implementation that would help in replicating best practices in communities served by the project.

MRDP is a povertyalleviation initiative implemented through the DA covering Mindanao provinces, which seeks to further improve rural incomes and achieve food security through agri-fishery infrastructure, livelihood enterprise, and biodiversity conservation projects. (Jay Rosas, DA-MRDP/RLRB PIA 10, Bukidnon)

7 too, will be lying through his teeth. Although I have no specific info about his own b ehind-t he-s cene campaign, I know he is prone to and capable of doing so based on his past actuations. And like

the President, I expect he will also deny wrongdoing.

That reminds me. Remember what we usually tell our young kids to warn and scare them to be honest and true? “Children, liars don’t go to Heaven!”

Dureza... from page 4

vote, taken from the infamous PDAF that the Supreme Court ruled against?

Was it by mere coincidence that after that Malacanang breakfast, and days before the Senate voted ( on May 29) to impeach CJ Corona , Revilla received (on May 4) from the Palace P86 million of his P100 million pork-barrel funds for the year? Was it by mere coincidence that Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, another oppositonist who also met with President Aquino ( the president himself admitted) received also on May 4 a whooping P50 million? No wonder Jinggoy sounded “coy” and sparing in his press statements, clearly caught between the “devil and the deep blue sea”. Was it by mere coincidence that Sen. Lito Lapid received a total of P100 million in two tranches, P50 million ( on April 26) and another P50 million on May 8 just before the vote? No wonder Sen. Lito in his media statements seemed stymied in admitting but appearing like someone satisfied after swallowing the proverbial canary. By the way, I got some of this data from Manila Times columnist Rigoberto “ Bobbie” Tiglao in his article entitled “AQUINO GAVE REVILLA HIS P86 M PORK AFTER THEIR MEETING”, January 24 issue, Manila Times. In rebuttal, Budget Secretary Butch Abad immediately denied Tiglao’s assertions.

He said that the releases, if indeed made, came as a matter of course and not at all connected with the pending Senate impeachment case. Whom should we believe?

In the case of CJ Corona, I will not also believe it if he tells us that he also did not make his own moves to influence the vote. Otherwise, he ,

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sat-sun | february 1-2, 2014