one mindanao - february 12, 2014

A glimmer of hope for Ungkaya Pukan youth in BasilanRene V. CarbayasWestern Mindanao

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2014 Vol. 3 No. 118

Long enduring Mindanao peace at hand with people’s collective effort, says Aquino

NATIONAL

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CARAGA REGION

ARMM

WESTERN MINDANAO

NORTHERN MINDANAO

SOUTHERN MINDANAO

CENTRAL MINDANAO

BIR-RDO 92 kicks off tax campaign

Philhealth opens new office in Koronadal

Pag-IBIG hosts mass wedding this Valentine’s Day

Caraga Regl Hospital opens new building

Submission of nominations for Pamanang Lingkod Bayani until Feb. 21--CSC-ARMM

3rd University research summit set in CdeO

New DavNor DepEd bldg inaugurated

Over 300 students in NorthCot join youth responders training

2 Agnor towns avail Free Medical-Dental Services

DA holds series of trainings for Lanao Sur farmers

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Claro A. Lanipa

Danilo E. Doguiles

Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy

Apipa P Bagumbaran

Vanessa M. Gorra

Shahana Joy E. Duerme

Jay V. Demain

Apipa P Bagumbaran

Information to Empower Filipinos

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A glimmer of hope for Ungkaya Pukan youth in Basilan

December was the time for celebrations as the month reflects the Yuletide

season among the Christian Catholic community in Basilan. For most part, a lot of Christmas parties and festivals were organized by various organizations and groups in Christian-dominated communities or towns.

At this time also, other groups organized activities in which young people can gather and learn life-skills while on vacation because of the Christmas break. Uniquely, this time the gathering was held in the remote municipality of Ungkaya Pukan in Basilan. The town, formerly part of Tipo-Tipo municipality, had been carved out from its mother town via ARMM Regional Act and a plebiscite. Thetownispronetoconflictanddevelopmentisreallydismal.Peaceand security concerns have always become an issue because the town is adjacent to Tipo-Tipo proper and Sumisip town, which has recently become thecenterofconflictintheislandprovinceofBasilan. It has been around three years when I last visited Ungkaya Pukan and only stayed for about three to four hours for the local peace and order committee meeting and swiftly went back to Isabela City. At that time, there was not much interaction with the locals, except a business meeting with

By Rene V. Carbayas

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barangayofficials. So, when there was an invitation for a leadership camp for the youth of Ungkaya Pukan, excitement grew within me. There was a mix feeling of jitters, worries, and excitement. An anxiety over security concerns felt in me although road security has been assured. Meanwhile, there were a number of invitations for Christmas parties and or invitation to judge a Christmas carol contest in other urban towns in Basilan. The schedules were almost simultaneously held with the youth

camp. I was tempted to turn down the Ungkaya event and attend parties and Christmas activities instead. But my years of experience as youth coordinator then prodded me to choose the youth over personal satisfaction and merriment. Peculiar to the situation, the youth of Ungkaya Pukan have long been deprived of youth-oriented activities - mostly due to lack of funds and initiatives - and youth-related services, as non-government groups and government agencies could not

reach the area. I believed I had made a good decision to go for Ungkaya Pukan youth instead of enjoying the parties to celebrate the yuletide season. Yes, there are risks, and the risks are high especially in going to and from the said town. That fear and anxiety felt over the long, rough road to Ungkaya Pukan was replaced with joy and excitement as over a hundred young people greeted us. It was the second day of their camp. It was my turn to handle the session on Leadership concepts and skills and later the session on climate change. There were a lot of

inhibitions from these young minds to fully express themselves, but you could really feel their eagerness and hunger for knowledge and opportunities that they were deprived of. There was a language barrier. Although, I was born in Basilan I never had the chance to learn the Yakan dialect. In spite of the teasing and laughter every time a youth would talk in Filipino and English, you could feel the sincerity and the genuine aspirations of these young people. Dreams for their town was inspiring as they shared their hopes that one day the community will have good hospitals with good doctors and nurses, shopping malls and recreation centers, hotels and a well-landscaped town plaza, and even an airport. I think what was heartwarming for the organizers was when a group of participants shared that they never had been so happy before in their life and that the youth camp experience was their happiest moment of their lives. The cultural and solidarity night was an extant testimony to that joy as they showcased their talents. Music and laughter echoed loudly in the midst of the serenity in the wee hours of that night, forgetting that we are in a conservative Muslim community. We wound up that night with a short meeting with the organizers, facilitators and the local government authorities and officials for a quick

assessment. Each one shared their thoughts and feeling. For most of us, there was a deep sense of satisfaction and inspiration that while we teach the youth to better themselves in the future, the experiences ended up teaching us instead in appreciating individual cultures and value of contributing to the shaping of the hope of tomorrow—the youth. Kudos to the men and women of the 18th Infantry (Deo Et Patria) Battalion of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division of the Philippine Army with their commanding officer LTC Tiny

Perez for taking the lead and believing in the youth. The support of the Nagdilaab Foundation Inc. headed by Miriam “Dedette” Suacito and the local government of Ungkaya Pukan municipality led by Mayor Jomar T. Maturan and other government line agencies and NGOs were unparalleled. The feeling was indescribable when we hit the road the next day back to our respective homes. Indescribable, but the feeling was good, knowing that we have accomplished something memorable to the youth. We left a bit sad because for such a short encounter with the youth of Ungkaya, we know they have a lot of potentials that need to be nurtured. But, we see a glint of hope in them, believing that the experience the organizers afforded them would redound to a brighter tomorrow that these young people of Ungkaya Pukan hope to create.

8FEBRUARY 2014 | PAGE

Aquino directs Cabinet Secretaries to intensify job creation and social protection programs, Palace says

President Benigno S. Aquino III has directed Cabinet members to be proactive in delivering front-line services

that will assist Filipinos in provinces where there is a high incidence of poverty, a Palace official said on Wednesday.

Across the Nation

“The main agenda for the Cabinet meeting yesterday were the action plans on jobs creation, social protection and poverty reduction presented by the

departments comprising the Cabinet’s human development and poverty reduction cluster (HDPRC),” Presidential Communications Operations Office


Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. said in a statement during the regular press briefing in Malacanang.

The President had ordered to intensify programs on job creation and social protection in the most needy and vulnerable provinces, Coloma said.

Coloma said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan presented to the Chief Executive a mid-term assessment of the government’s performance vis-a-vis the targets and objectives of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP).

Balisacan reported to the Chief Executive that the government is on track with respect to its economic targets but it lags with respect to social outcomes, Coloma said.

“Growth in gross domestic product at 7.2 percent in 2013 is within the 7 to 8 percent annual growth target. Fixed capital formation has also been on the uptrend, reaching 21.1 percent in 2013 or just a shade below the 22 percent target,” Coloma said.

Unemployment rate was 7.1 percent in 2013 compared to the forecast range of 6.8 to 7.2 percent,” Coloma said.

“In consonance with the Millennium Development Goals, the aspiration is to decrease poverty incidence by half, from 33.2 percent in 1991

to 16.6 percent by 2015. Latest figures (meaning 2012, these are the latest full year figures) show that poverty incidence has been reduced to 25.2 percent,” Coloma stressed.

The Cabinet cluster on human development and poverty reduction recommended for the implementation of strategies with spatial and sectoral dimensions to ensure attainment of inclusive growth.

“Hence, the cluster mapped out specific interventions targeted at addressing the needs of the people in provinces with the most number of poor households (and these are known as the Category 1 provinces), provinces where the proportion of poor households is high (Category 2), and provinces exposed to multiple hazards (Category 3),” Coloma said.

“With respect to these three categories, let me just state that the objective for Category 1 provinces is to create more economic opportunities; for Category 2, enhance mobility of labor and goods; and for Category 3, increase resilience since they are most vulnerable to disasters,” he said.

According to Coloma, Trade Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo said that the Department of Trade and Industry will focus on increasing


the country’s competitiveness in industry sectors with high employment multipliers such as shipbuilding, food processing, furniture, chemicals, automotive, copper and copper products, electronics and garments.

“Continuing support will be given to the IT-BPM sector that has been a consistent generator of new employment opportunities. DTI will also pursue initiatives in further improving the ease of doing business and lowering power costs to enhance employment and job creation,” Coloma said.

“Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said that through convergence programs in 30 priority provinces, (these are the provinces in Categories 1, 2 and 3), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will facilitate job matching and placement of jobseekers,” Coloma said.

Coloma said the DOLE is working closely with Commission on Higher Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Science and Technology and Professional Regulation Commission, along with a network of school administrators, guidance counselors, and career advocates, in intensifying programs on job creation.

In line with ASEAN integration,

Coloma said the DOLE is also promoting the mobility of professionals in up to 46 professions through mutual recognition agreements or MRAs with other countries.

“TESDA’s work scholarship program aims to develop skill sets and competencies that will match available and potential job opportunities that are focused on the following sectors: agro-fishery and agro-industrial; manufacturing (the manufacturing sectors I already mentioned the DTI portion), tourism, IT-BPM, infrastructure and housing, and logistics,” Coloma said.

On social protection, Coloma said Vice President Jejomar C. Binay reported that the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council is targeting to provide 561,932 families with housing assistance estimated to cost P103.1 billion from 2014 through 2016.

The HUDCC identified the informal settler families, calamity victims and low-salaried government employees as the three priority sectors

Coloma said Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Soliman reported that families presently being supported by the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program will be given sustainable livelihood opportunities and expanded educational and health grants.


“Pagkatapos nating sunod-sunod na nalagdaan ang mga bahagi ng Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, abot-kamay na natin ang ganap na pagtutuwid ng sistema sa rehiyong ito, at ang permanenteng pagbabago sa Lupang Pangako,” the President said in his message during the 2nd Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)

Local Government Units (LGUs) Summit on Governance and Development.

The President underscored the spirit of volunteerism and collective effort of the people in attaining a lasting peace in Mindanao. He added that the current leadership of the Autonomous Region in Munslim Mindanao did a lot of sacrifices as the region transitions into another

Long enduring Mindanao peace at hand with people’s collective effort, says Aquino

A lasting peace is at hand in Mindanao with the signing of several components of the Framework Agreement on the

Bangsamoro, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday, as he rallied people’s support for the peace initiative to make it successful in the long term.


phase of its history. “Ang pinamagandang payo na

natanggap ko ay, ‘We win when we think of how the other can win, instead of how we can win,’” he said.

Mindanao starts to move to a new era of better governance towards an improved society, the President said, noting the region is now able to free itself from repeating the errors of the past.

“Nananabik na po tayo sa araw na maipasa na ang Bangsamoro Basic Law, upang tuluyan na ngang mabuksan ang bagong kabanata ng kasaysayan sa Muslim Mindanao.”

The President thanked the leadership of ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman for carrying out reforms in the region, calling him the ARMM’s “ghost buster.”

The only hurdle in Mindanao’s quest for long enduring peace are the doubts and fears of the people to commit the same mistakes that happened in the past, he said.

This is the reason, he said, why he calls on the people to give peace a chance in Mindanao.

“Makakaasa po kayong sa bawat kasunduang ating nilalagdaan ay nakataya ang aming dangal at pangalan. Hinihimok ko po kayong tumaya rin sa pag-asang makakamit natin ang malawakan at ganap na pagbabago sa ARMM. Tiyakin po nating hindi na tayo babalik pa sa dilim ng nakaraan—totoong

maliwanag na kinabukasan po ang inyong matatanglawan,” the President said.

And as he steps down from power more than two years from now, the President said the people of Mindanao will choose new leaders who will guide them in the right direction, he said. He added that while he returns to private life, he will be willing to support the development of the region.

The second ARMM local government summit aims to highlight the role of ARMM LGUs in the Mindanao peace process and in preparations for disaster management, mitigation and response.

The ARMM leadership hopes that through the summit, it could strengthen LGUs on disaster risk management and prevention down to the lowest level.

“Strengthening Regional Stakeholders’ Partnership towards Revitalized ARMM in Transition to Bangsamoro” is this year’s summit theme. PND

13FEBRUARY 2014 | www.pia.gov.ph PAGE |

President Aquino reports on gains of ARMM reform initiativesThe government was able to improve the conditions of the

Autonomous Region in Mindanao (ARMM) with its new leadership from major infrastructure to agriculture and peace and order, President Benigno S. Aquino III said during a local government summit here.

Speaking before the participants of the 2nd ARMM LGU Summit on Governance and Development here at the Waterfront Insular Hotel,

the President said the new ARMM leadership successfully fought corruption, improved public service, and maintained peace and order.


“Ngayon, narito na nga po tayo, at tinatamasa na natin ang ilang mga tagumpay, na gaano man kahirap, ay sama-sama nating sinikap abutin,” the President said.

With the implementation of the synchronized election in the ARMM, the government reduced the number of precincts registering failure of election.

The President reported that in the 2007 elections, there were 17 municipalities in ARMM that declared failure of election. This is a huge improvement since

there is only one polling precinct that reported a failure of election during the 2013 polls, he said.

Election-related violence also dropped, he said, citing reports from the Philippine National Police (PNP). In 2010, the PNP reported 33 incidents of violence, but in 2013 there were only six cases.

The region also had huge improvements in terms of healthcare, he said. In 2013, the President said the DOH-ARMM reported 45,659 pre-natal visits of pregnant women, 36,876 for


post-pregnancy, and 14,179 babies undergoing newborn screening.

There is also a big number of poor families receiving government support under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, he noted. In 2014 there are 389,656 households in ARMM that are enrolled in the program.

“Samakatuwid, mas marami nang kabataan sa inyo rito ang nababantayan ang edukasyon at kalusugan, at mas nabibigyan ng pagkakataon sa mas maliwanag na kinabukasan,” he said.

Many areas in Mindanao are now receiving better healthcare and education similar to those being enjoyed by other areas in the country, he said.

Investors’ confidence is also high in the region, the President noted. Based on the report by ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman, 2013 investments reached P1.46 billion. This is 157 percent higher compared to the P569 million posted in 2012.

Parts of these investments include the 9 million liter oil depot at the Port of Polloc in Maguindanao that is expected to reduce the price of oil in central Mindanao, he said.

The Office of the Regional Treasurer and other agencies also

improved in collecting fees in 2013 with P1.25 billion surpassing the P1.24 billion target for that year.

“At tiwala naman po tayo sa paggugol sa pangunguna ni Governor Hataman. Kaya hindi lang dumami na ang koleksyon, malalagay pa sa tamang kalalagyan. Kaya talaga hong paangat na nang paangat ang ARMM,” the President added.

Under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) and ARMM partnership, the government allocation reached P1.49 billion for 2013, according to an ARMM briefer.

PAMANA is a government peace and development framework aimed at strengthening peace building, reconstruction and development in conflict-affected areas.

Among ARMM’s partner agencies include the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

For this year, the allocation for ARMM’s projects, in cooperation with its partners is P2.66 billion. Among ARMM’s partners include the DSWD, the Department of Public Works and Highways and other agencies. PND


Construction of 5-km coastal road in Pagadian City begins By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – The construction of the five-kilometer coastal road project will now start following the groundbreaking ceremony held last week at the boundary of barangays Bomba and Poloyagan this city. With a funding of P24,948,485.76 from the Payapa at Masaganang


Construction of 5-km coastal road in Pagadian City begins

Pamayanan (PAMANA) through the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the road project will connect barangays Bomba and Poloyagan of this city to barangays Pantad and Rebocon of Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur. DILG-9 Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil led the laying of time capsule during the groundbreaking ceremony. He was assisted by Mayor Romeo Pulmones, Vice Mayor Divina Grace Yu, city councilors Julo Dacal and Bienvenido Culve, and the barangay chairmen of Bomba and Poloyagan. In his message, Director Abutazil said the PAMANA is the national government’s peace and development framework aimed to respond and strengthen peace building, reconstruction and

development of conflict affected areas. “This development projects are intended to reduce poverty through community infrastructure and delivery of social services in areas identified by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) as conflict affected,” Abutazil added. Government is investing millions of pesos to address poverty issues with the grassroots as the primary beneficiaries of the various projects and initiatives, he said. Pagadian City is one of the beneficiaries of this program. For fiscal year 2013 alone, a total amount of P133 million was allocated to the city for the implementation of PAMANA projects, of which P25 million was allotted for the construction


BIR-RDO 92 kicks off tax campaignBy Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – The Bureau of Internal Revenue-Revenue District Office No. 92 (BIR-RDO 92) here has kicked off on Friday its 2014 Tax Campaign with a motorcade around the city’s main streets, followed by a short program at the Liga ng mga Barangay Convention Center. This year’s campaign theme is “I Love the Philippines, I pay my taxes right. It’s as easy as Register, File and Pay (RFP). BIR 9 Regional Director Alert B. Alocilja disclosed that the BIR’s national target goal for this year is P1.46 trillion, that is 16.16 percent higher than the 2013 goal of P1.25 trillion. Zamboanga Peninsula region is tasked to collect P5.4 billion which is higher by 8.2 percent than the 2013 goal of P5.01 billion and an increase of 22.8 percent over the 2013 actual collection of P4.4 billion, Alocilja said. He further said that RDO 92 will share the tax burden with P895

million for the whole year of 2014, which is equivalent to 16.18 percent of the entire collection goal of the region. Director Alocilja also reported that the top three districts in Zamboanga Peninsula in terms of tax collections are Zamboanga City with the biggest contribution of 45.32 percent, followed by Dipolog City and Pagadian City at 22.21 percent and 16.18 percent respectively. The event was participated in by the different sectors of taxpaying public composed of national government agencies, local government units (LGUs) and local businessmen. (PIA9)

and improvement PAMANA projects, Director Abutazil disclosed. “DILG as your partner for development is very optimistic that this road construction and improvement project will greatly benefit your people in the barangays covered by the project,” he assured. “While it is the DILG that is given the primary responsibility to oversee and monitor the status and progress of the various stages of the project implementation, the

same responsibility is also given to the city of Pagadian as beneficiary, as both the DILG and the local government unit play a vital role and are accountable in ensuring that the projects are implemented as they should be,” Abutazil emphasized. Meanwhile, Mayor Romeo Pulmones was so thankful to the DILG family led by Dir Abutazil and the people behind the realization of the project, saying “this is the first big project implemented during my administration.”


BIR-RDO 92 kicks off tax campaign

Nutrition Committee 10 expands membershipby: Jorie C. Valcorza

The Regional Nutrition Committee 10 (RNC-10) agreed to expand its membership in response to the standing order of Health Secretary Enrique Ona, appointing the body as the lead

cluster on Nutrition Management in Emergencies and Disasters.


Pag-IBIG hosts mass wedding this Valentine’s Dayby: Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — True to its name, the Home Develop-ment Mutual Fund, widely known as PAG-IBIG Fund, is now gearing up for the grandest mass wedding rites dubbed “Libreng Kasalan, IDo, I Do,” this Valentine’s Day.

Lydia N. Fortaleza, Pag-IBIG Fund Malaybalay Branch Head said this “Libreng Kasalan” project is for Pag-IBIG Fund Bukidnon members and potential members, either new couples or live-in partners of five years who are at least 25 years old. “But first, they must become

a Pag-IBIG member. They need to pay P100 only as membership fee and that amount will be the start of their monthly remittance,” she said. The free mass wedding’s motif is the unique Kaamulan costume of Bukidnon’s seven hill tribes studded with trinkets, anklets, earings,

In the recent committee meeting, the members decided to utilize the RNC’s existing structure and expand it, to cover now the Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of the Civil Defense (OCD), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). This move is aimed at ensuring the nutritional status of affected population especially the most vulnerable group and people with debilitating conditions not worsen or deteriorate because of the impact of emergency and disaster situations by linking with other cluster/sector groups and establishing capabilities at all levels.

Helen G. Alferez, OIC Nutrition Program Coordinator of the National Nutrition Council 10 likewise stressed on the role of the local nutrition committees at the provincial/city and municipal level to serve as the local nutrition clusters. Meanwhile, Beryl Lorraine G. Go, Nutrition Cluster Head of the Department of Health (DOH) region 10 underscored that this approach is not new to the region 10, there have been deliberate efforts and coordinative activities done to implement the nutrition cluster when typhoon Sendong had ravage the region in 2011.


headdresses and other intricately woven tribal accessories. But those who love to be dressed in a wedding gown, they may have it as they say their vows at the Veranda Park, here in Malaybalay City Fortaleza said. She said this project not only helps live-in couples legalize their union. It also develops them towards establishing financial security for their families. This year’s mass wedding will

be officiated by Malaybalay City Mayor Ignacio W. Zubiri. The event aims to promote marriage and its importance in making the foundation of the family strong enough to withstand all of life’s challenges. In addition, the newly-wed couples will automatically become members of Pag-IBIG which is providing the venue, first meal of the newly-weds and souvenirs from the Fund.



The summit aims to present the research engagements of XU faculty and students from 2010 onwards, and researches funded by KRC from 2008 that have yet to be presented. The research studies are anchored on XU’s development goals of stronger formation, better administration and greater societal engagement, particularly in the areas of food security, health, environment, governance and peace.

There will be a plenary session at the Nursing Amphitheater from 7:30 – 10:00 a.m., then concurrent sessions from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at AVRs 1-6 and the Nursing Amphitheater. KRC is XU’s research office undertaking research and development activities that are responsive to the needs of the region in the context of XU’s known fields of excellence.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Xavier University’s (XU) Kinaadman Research Center (KRC) will hold the 3rd XU Research Summit on February 12.

by: Vanessa M. Gorra



Celebrated tour guide pushes pedestrian tourism in Davao

DAVAO CITY- Celebrated tour ex-pert and cultural activist Carlos Celdran is pushing for pedestrian-ization around downtown Davao.

“I really think Davao is ready for a pedestrian culture.” Celdran said. Known for his elaborate walking tours around the walled city around

byRudolph Alama


Intramuros in Manila City, Celdran said that Davao has the basics to start a walking culture. He cited clean and peaceful streets, a vibrant downtown area and the presence of public parks. “Davao City is one of the cleanest cities in the Philippines which I’ve been to.” Celdran said of his main observation after a two-day walking tour around downtown Davao entitled “Carlos Celdran does Davao.” The tour took the popular and controversial Manila personality around several Davao streets using the Apo View Hotel Street Map a customized city guide created by Apo View Hotel. Celdran’s trip was also initiated and organized by Apo View, one of the oldest hotels and located within the city’s downtown district. “We want to bring back the old Davao, the history and the culture.” Says Chris Pamintuan, general manager of the Apo View who bared that they are planning to start the downtown Davao walking tours with the hotel, one of the city’s oldest hotels as the starting point. He noted that many Dabawenyos are more preoccupied with going to the malls, Pamintuan hopes the project would revitalized the downtown area. “Carlos is the best guy for this

thing.” Pamintuan said of the project which involves Celdran touring downtown with his trademark hilarious eccentricity which made him popular in Manila. Pamintuan said a video will be produced from the tour and hopes it would go viral in the internet. Already Celdran’s post on his social media sites about his Davao tour have attracted considerable interest in the project. The hotel general manager who is also a cousin of Celdran said that the City Tourism Office is very interested in the project and in fact assisted Celdran’s city tour. Celdran explored some of the city’s important cultural and historical attractions which included Museo Dabawenyo, Davao Cinematheque, San Pedro Cathedral, Rizal Park and old houses in the downtown area. Celdran said that Roxas Avenue has a potential to become a pedestrianized boulevard. He said that the city government can widen sidewalks, put bike lanes and upgrade public parks such as Osmena Park. The tour guide who also serves as a tourism consultant to Mayor Joseph Estrada in Manila said he really wants to promote walking around the city, apart from achieving a lifestyle it also has a low carbon footprint. (PIA/RG Alama)


DAVAO DEL NORTE----Governor Rodolfo del Rosario graced the inauguration and blessing of the new Department of Education Davao del Norte Division building at the Capitol compound Sunday (Feb. 9). “In my opinion, this new DepED Division building is the most beautiful among the structures here in this provincial government center,” quipped Gov. RDR. The said edifice worth more than 17 million is located adjacent to the edifice of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). The Governor congratulated DavNor Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Josephine Fadul and the entire DavNor DepEd family being the recipient of the multi-million project, and challenged them to be good stewards. “This day is blessed because we started with the inauguration and blessing of this new DepED office. This afternoon we will have the opening of the Davao Region Athletic Association Meet (DAVRAA). It is indeed a blessing both literally and symbolically,” said Atty. Roni

Esguerra from DepED Central Office representing Assistant Secretary Tonisito M.C. Umali. Fadul thanked the distiguished guests and everyone present. The inauguration was then followed with a press conference at the lobby with the governor, Atty. Esguerra, Vice Gov. Suaybaguio, Director Benigno, Asst. Director Lumaad, SDS Dr. Fadul, and Mayor Andamon answering the inquiries. Together with Gov. Del Rosario were Vice Gov. Victorio R. Suaybaguio, Jr., DepED Region XI Director Dr. Gloria D. Benigno, DepED Central Office representative Atty. Roni Esguerra, DepED Asst. Regional XI Dir. Nenita E. Lumaad, Municipality of Sto. Tomas Mayor Benigno R. Andamon, DavNor DepED Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Josephine L. Fadul, DepED regional and division officials. (By Christian Val Agustin, Grade 7 student of Sto. Tomas National High School)

New DavNor DepEd bldg inaugurated


Collective Negotiation Agreement between PLGU and SPEU signedALABEL, Sarangani (February 11, 2014) – Provincial employees and officers of the union wit-ness as Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (left) and Sarangani Provincial Employees Union (SPEU) president Anacleto “Bobby” Saya-ang (right) sign the Collective Negotiation Agree-ment (CNA) Monday February 10. The CNA is an arrangement between the provincial govern-ment and the union that stipulates the responsibilities and benefits of union members and the provincial management. (Jake T. Narte/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)


COTABATO CITY – Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas called on the governors, mayors and other elected officials of Mindanao, Saturday, to extend their all-out support to the Framework Agreement for Bangsamoro, which was forged recently by the National Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Roxas to Mindanao LGUS: Let us all support framework agreement for BangsamoroBy: Aida C. Agad

Roxas said that the local officials here are in the best position to explain to their constituents the advantages of creating a new Bangsamoro Region as a necessary step in securing just and lasting peace in Mindanao.

“Together with the President, I celebrate with the whole of Mindanao and the entire country on the potential that the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement brings,” Roxas said during the opening ceremony of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) office in Cotabato City.

“The Framework Agreement is a crucial and necessary first step towards lasting peace and development in Mindanao. Thus, I ask for everyone’s support so that we can hurdle the challenges ahead and succeed in transforming this nascent promise into reality,” he added.

Roxas joined Sec. Teresita Deles, the Presidential Adviser for Peace Process, in the opening ceremony which was also attended by the 15 members of the Bangsamoro

Transition Commission.The 15 members of the

Commission, of which seven were nominated by the Government, and eight recommended by the MILF, include Akmad A. Sakkam, Johaira C. Wahab, Talib A. Benito, Asani S. Tammang, Pedrito A. Eisma, Froilyn T. Mendoza and Fatmawati T. Salapuddin Robert M. Alonto, Abdulla U. Camlian, Ibrahim D. Ali, Raissa H. Jajurie, Melanio U. Ulama, Hussein P. Munoz and Said M. Shiek.

Mohagher Iqbal, current chair of the MILF peace panel will serve as Chairperson of the Commission.

The Transition Commission is tasked to draft the Bangsamoro Basic Law that will be certified urgent by the President and submitted to Congress for passage. It will undergo a plebiscite in the proposed Bangsamoro core territory as per the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB). Once ratified, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is deemed abolished and the new Bangsamoro region will be formally established.


Roxas expressed optimism that the Transition Commission would exert all efforts to consult and rally the support of all stakeholders in the ongoing peace process between the government and the MILF.

“I trust the Bangsamoro Transition Commission to draft an Organic Act that is within the spirit and framework of the Constitution. I am confident that whatever present concerns we have will all be properly addressed by the more comprehensive treatment by the Bill, containing the Bangsamoro

Organic Act, to be filed in Congress,” Roxas said.

“I trust that we will continue to consult all groups and sectors who are willing to share their ideasand opinions on the planned new Bangsamoro Region,” he added.

Roxas urged members of the Transition Commission to stand their ground and ward off attempts to sabotage the ongoing peace process in Mindanao. (ACAgad PIA12/with reports from Shem Quezon MRO-DILG)

Philhealth opens new office in KoronadalBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- In line with their efforts to ex-pedite delivery of services the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC) or Philhealth here has opened the Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO)- Koronadal in a new site.

Located within the regional office compound at Posadas corner Abad Santos Streets, LHIO-Koronadal is expected to address particularly the congestion at the former location.

“This new office will help us serve our clients better because in January this year we are already serving at least 560 clients a day,” LHIO Koronadal head Nonito Bayaras said.

On February 3 alone, Bayaras cited, more than 600 clients came. Of whom, 60 percent came for membership concerns; 37 percent for payment and the rest for other transactions.

Like other LHIOs, said office houses frontline personnel who serve and entertain clients for registration, collection, submission of claims and other related concerns.

Chief Operating Officer and concurrent Area Vice President for Philhealth Mindanao Ramon Aristoza, Jr., Formal Sector Senior Manager, Dr. Nerissa Sugay, CARAGA Regional Vice President, Johnny Y. Sychua and lessor, Dr. Angelino Español led the inauguration on Friday, February 8.

“So far, this is the best Local Health Insurance Office in the entire country, Aristoza said.


MAGPET, North Cotabato-- Some 339 student leaders from 69 high schools in the second district of this province participated a three-day training for youth responders initiated by the provincial government of North Cotabato lat week.

“It had been the corporation’s goal to provide the best frontline service for our members. With this new development, we hope to sustain the best service we can to our clients,” he added.

Arlyn Lee of Ox’s Enterprises said that it is better and more spacious, more organized, and less congested compared to the old office.

LHIOs in Koronadal, General Santos, Kidapawan, Cotabato and Isulan rendering frontline services headed by local health insurance officers are supervised Field Operations Division OIC-Chief, Lorelie G. Bonilla. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12/HGNaanep)

Over 300 students in NorthCot join youth responders trainingBy: Shahana Joy E. Duerme


Headed by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operation Center (PDRRMOC), the activity was held at Magpet National High School (MNHS).

Participating high schools came from the municipalities of Magpet, Antipas, Arakan, President Roxas, Matalam, Makilala and Kidapawan City.

Aside from the youths, 74 advisers also took part in the event.

Cynthia D. Ortega, PDRRMOC head, said that the training consisted of theory and skills aims to promote environment protection and disaster preparedness among students.

Ortega noted that the participants were the second batch as the same activity was conducted recently.

“Particularly, students leaders were chosen to undergo the training and are expected to re-echo to their fellow students what they learned from the activity,” Ortega stated.

The PDRRMOC head explained that in the training, participants are equipped with knowledge on Republic Act 10121 or the act strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management System. Moreover, they are taught with adequate skills to respond to

any disaster or calamity whether man-made or natural and on how to enhance public awareness, improve school preparedness and mitigation of the ill-effects of calamities.

“The students must be acquainted of what they must do when disaster strikes. This training helps them to gain the basics,” Ortega said.

The trainers during the three-day activity were representatives from the North Cotabato Emergency Response Team (NCERT), Bureau of Fire Protection 12, Integrated Provincial Health Office and the Department of Education.

Meanwhile, Cirila Ybañez, school principal of MNHS, expressed her appreciation for the conduct of such activity which she described as “timely and highly useful” for the students.

On the other hand, the third batch of the youth responders training will be on Feb 19-21, 2014 to be held at the Kabacan National High School (KNHS), according to Ortega.

The training for youth responders centers in the theme, “Bantay Kalamidad, Sagip Buhay”. (SJDuerme-PIA12/JSta.Cruz-N. Cotabato Provincial Government)


AgSur Peace and Order Council plan for 2014-2016 ready for implementation By David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR - The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) Plan for the year 2014-2016 will be ready for implementation upon the signature of the council’s chairperson Governor Adolph Edward Plaza.


During the PPOC meeting last week, members of the council were given the task to review the draft of the plan for three years implementation with the council’s chair and vice chairman Vice Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. present.

The PPOC major plan for 2014-2016 ranges from Crime Prevention and Law Enforcement whose objectives are to deter criminal elements and intensify implementation of laws and local ordinances. The Philippine National Police (PNP) is identified as the lead agency in the implementation of these activities with local officials, civilian volunteer organizations (CVOs), non-government organizations (NGOs), religious and private sectors, civil security units and private security agencies as support groups.

Other major responsibilities of the PNP together with the army embodied in the plan are to intensify the internal s e c u r i t y operation and the formulation of assistance in traffic enforcement a n d management,

which will include the Land Transportation Office, the Highway Patrol group as implementing agencies.

Other priorities in the plan include the anti-criminality campaign on illegal drugs targeting supply reduction, demand reduction, inter-agency cooperation and community participation. The others are illegal gambling, illegal logging, anti- carnapping, recovery of loose firearms, anti- cattle rustling and arrest of most wanted persons. With these activities identified, the plan includes its concept of operations.

According to DILG Provincial Director Arlene Ann Sanchez, other activities will be subject to review by the member-agencies and will be finalized as soon as corrected and signed by the agencies concerned.


Caraga Regl Hospital opens new buildingSURIGAO DEL NORTE -- The Department of Health (DOH) expands its medical services in Caraga Regional Hospital with the opening of a new building in the province.

The OB Complex and Payward Building, which is a 2-storey building worth P15 million and located at the back of Caraga Regional Hopital main building, Surigao City, was formally opened and inaugurated on Thursday, February 6, 2014.

Leading the ribbon-cutting were DOH-CHD Caraga regional director Dr. Minerva P. Molon, Caraga Regional Hopsital chief Dr. Andres Dolar, vice governor Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr, board member Myrna M. Romarate, board member Cesar Bagundol and former Dinagat Islands board member Merlinda Lagroma in behalf of Congresswoman Arlene “Kaka” Bag-ao.

Director Molon, in her message, lauded the local government

officials of Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands for the full support in the realization of the construction on the said building.

Molon also said that she will try her best that the same building will be constructed in Dinagat Islands so that Dinagatnons will not travel anymore to Surigao City for their medical needs.

Meanwhile, Caraga Regional Hospital chief Dr. Andres Dolar said the hospital equipment worth P47 million were already bid-out to complete the facilities.

He said the first floor of the said building has 21 rooms (private and single occupancy) while the second floor has 11 rooms (semi-private room).


By Jay V. Demain

2 Agnor towns avail Free Medical-Dental ServicesBUTUAN CITY -- A total of 2,719 residents in the municipalities of Jabonga and Kitcharao in the province of Agusan del Norte received free medical and dental services from the provincial government last January 28 and 30, 2014 under the Medical/Dental Outreach Program of Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba.

Governor Matba personally visited the area together with the Provincial Social Welfare Population and Nutrition Office (PSWPNO) Staff, doctors, dentists, nurses, midwifes and x-ray technician from the Provincial Health Office (PHO) and the Rural Health Units (RHU) of the said municipalities.

The services provided include

check-ups, tooth extraction, RBS and X-ray. Medicines were also given for free.

According to PSWPNSO Head Daisybel O. Demavivas people availed free medicines, free consultation and other health services form the team which aims to reach the farthest areas of the province that badly needed their services.

2 Agnor towns avail Free Medical-Dental Services

Dominga MallongaDOST-Caraga Regional Director

for more details visit us DOST National Website: http://www.dost.gov.phDOST Caraga Website: http://caraga.dost.gov.ph


ARMM approves P18 wage hike

The wage board of the Autonomous

Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has approved an P18-a-day increase in the minimum wage of workers in the region.

The new wage hike brings the minimum wage in ARMM to P250. Muslimin Jakilan, ARMM labor secretary, said the new wage rate will take effect this month pending the endorsement of its implementing rules from the regional leadership. He said the new wage hike was approved by ARMM’s Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in December of last year after a series of public consultation across the autonomous region.

Jakilan said consideration may be given to companies or establishments that are on the risk of closure; those that regularly employ not more than 10 workers, new business enterprise and those affected by natural calamities. “Private companies and establishment who cannot comply with the new wage order may file application for wage exemption within 75 days if they qualify on our provided criteria,” he said. Jakilan, who also chairs the RTWPB, said the wage board took


Submission of nominations for Pamanang Lingkod Bayani until Feb. 21--CSC-ARMMby Apipa P Bagumbaran

The Civil Service Commission in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CSC-ARMM) is still accepting nominations to this year’s search for Pamanang Lingkod Bayani.

The Pamanang Lingkod Bayani award is a program of CSC that gives tribute to public servants who were killed while in the performance of their functions and have displayed the characters of a hero (bayani) in the name of public service. CSC-ARMM Acting Director Leopoldo Roberto Valderoza, Jr. said the program is based on CSC Resolution Number 1302553 or Implementing Guidelines on Pamanang Lingkod Bayani approved on November 29, 2013. The bereaved family will receive the citation or plaque of the winning nominee Three of his/her children can also avail of a scholarship either in baccalaureate, masteral or doctoral degree in any of the member state universities or colleges of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) under the Pamanang Lingkod Bayan Iskolarsyip component

of the program.

The bereaved family will also receive financial assistance of P100,000 under the Pondong Pamanang Lingkod Bayan component. Nominations to the Pamanang Lingkod Bayani award must be submitted to the CSC-ARMM regional office or field offices or to the Honor Awards Program (HAP) Secretariat not later than February 21, 2014. For details on the qualifications and documents that will be submitted, the CSC-ARMM said they can be contacted at telephone numbers (064) 552-1855 or at textline 0917-839-8272.

various criteria into consideration such as the capacity of employers, comparative wages from other regions and the current wage fixing system under R.A. 6727 otherwise known as

the Wage Rationalization Act. “We know this will be a big help to workers in ARMM,” he said (BPI-ARMM)


DA holds series of trainings for Lanao Sur farmersby Apipa P Bagumbaran

The Provincial Office of the Department of Agriculture (DA) conducted series of trainings to capacitate farmer technicians in the province.

DA Provincial Information Officer and Chief of Operations Naga M. Tucalo disclosed that the training on good agricultural practices (GAP) for cassava production and coconut production were held simultaneously last January 21-23 in Marawi City and Malabang town, respectively. Training on rubber tapping and management was also held on January 28-29 in Ditsaan Ramain town. While on February 4-6, training courses on rice production in upland areas and on coffee roasting, packing and rehabilitation were simultaneously held here in the city. Thirty-five (35) local farmer technicians (LFTs) in the province have

undergone the specialized training course on rice production in upland areas conducted by the Department of Agriculture (DA) Provincial Office with the support of Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) and Department of Agriculture and Fisheries in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DAF-ARMM). The three-day training which included lectures on Agri-Pinoy program, upland rice technology and organic technology by experts from PhilRice and DAF-ARMM aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of LFTs regarding technology in upland areas/ The participants came from the municipalities of Pualas, Poona Piagapo, Balindong, Pagayawan, Picong, Ganassi, Calanogas, Marantao, Sultan Dumalondong, Saguiaran, Lumbayanague, Lumbaca-Unayan, Lumbatan, Tubaran, Madamba, and Marawi City Tucalo said these capability building activities are found effective and efficient in the transfer of technical know-how down to the farmers in order to make them productive and competitive.

one mindanao - february 12, 2014

Documents

ungkaya pukan youth

youth of ungkaya pukan

youth camp

youth coordinator

youthoriented activities

youth responders training

youthrelated services

ungkaya event