one mindanao - february 26, 2013

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESEDITORIAL BOARDWestern Mindanao (Zamboanga Peninsula)P. Urro Street, San Francisco DistrictPagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur 7016Telephone no. (062) 215-1480 / 925-0038Cellphone no. 0908-8843404E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]: www.piazampen.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA WesMin Info BlizTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIAIX

Northern MindanaoGraces’ Building, Antonio Luna StreetCagayan de Oro City 9000Telefax No. (08822) 72-66-83Telephone no. (088) 856-8178 / 729-594Cellphone no. 0928-5204305 0917-3084969E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]: www.pia-10.blogspot.com

Southern Mindanao (Davao Region)Ground Floor Kanto Motors Bldg.,Quimpo Blvd., New MatinaDavao City 8000Telephone no. (082) 297-0991 / 301-8580Telefax no. (082) 297-0992 / 304-2044Cellphone no. 0917-7053606 / 0918-9202950E-mail: [email protected]

Central Mindanao (SOCCSKSARGEN) Provincial Capitol Compound Bautista Bldg., Zulueta St.Koronadal City, South Cotabato 9506Telephone no. (083) 520-0249Telefax no. (083) 228-9736 / 228-9739 / 520-0100Cellphone no. 0921-6873373 / 0928-5204307E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines Bldg.,J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285 / 360-1239Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phBlogspot: www.piacaraga.blogspot.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur Twitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

Executive Editor …….. EFREN F. ELBANBUENA Cluster Head, Southern, Western and Central Mindanao Regional Director, PIA Region XI

Managing Editor …….. ABNER M. CAGA Cluster Head, Northern & Northeastern Mindanao Regional Director - PIA Caraga Region OIC Regional Director - PIA Region X

Associate Editors …… NOEMI B. EDAGA Regional Director, PIA Region IX

OLIVIA T. SUDARIA Regional Director, PIA Region XII ELAINE O. RATUNIL Officer-in-charge, PIA Region X

Regional Desk Editors Franklin P. Gumapon, PIA Region IX Jorie C. Valcorza, PIA Region X Rudolph Ian G. Alama, PIA Region XI Danny E. Doguiles, PIA Region XII Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Copy Editor ............... Robert E. Roperos, PIA Caraga Region

Layout Artists ……… Victoriano B. Villacruz, Jr., PIA Region IX Retchie Tolinero, PIA Region X

Senior Layout Artists : Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA Caraga Region Richard D. Atillo, PIA Caraga Region

Editorial Advisers :

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Philippine Information Agency

Director General

SEC. HERMINIO “Sonny” B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

Cover Story

Dipolog City hosts momentous “Tunog-tugan Festival”Alma L. TingcangWestern Mindanao

Today’s issue... Tuesday, February 26, 2013 Vol. 2 No. 133

page 4

President Aquino appeals to Sultan of Sulu to recall followers and end Sabah Standoff 9

Aida C. Agad, Central Mindanao

DAR commits P81.2M projects for residents of Sitio Lacobe in Makilala17

50 OSYs in Tacurong City get free livelihood training

Infirmary, cultural center to rise in Lamitan City

Multimedia Tech Educates Farmers Together

Jezereel Louise Billano, Central Mindanao15

2124

Rene V. Carbayas, ARMM

Southern Mindanao

BJMP sets-up help desk vs HR violations27

Noel B. Najarro, Caraga Region

PRO-13 commemorates EDSA ‘People Power Revolution’ with resolute mes-sages on reforms30Camiguin animals get free vet services year round Jorie C. Valcorza, Northern Mindanao

28Jeza Mae Sarah Sanchez, Northern Mindanao

Myra Q. Yu, Caraga Region

DAR, coffee co-op sign P2.9-M eco-nomic support services 32Mary May A. Abellon, Western Mindanao

Bayani Challenge 2013 launch set March 23-27 in Katipunan town39

7 11 13 18 22 26

Tuesday, February 26, 20134

Dipolog City hosts momentous “Tunog-tugan Festival”

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in collaboration with the city government of Dipolog hosted

the very significant artistic extravaganza, the First International Gongs and Bamboo Music Festival held at Dipolog Sports Complex (DSC) on February 16-22, 2013.

CoVer StoRy

The Tunog-tugan Festival was made possible through the creative institutional partnership of NCCA, Musicological Society of the Philippines, and the University of the Philippines Center for Ethnomusicology headed by Dr. Ramon P. Santos, who is also the festival director. The colorful event in the tradition of gongs and bamboo music which

originated thousands of years ago is one of the highlights of Dipolog City’s centennial celebration. Dipolog was founded as a municipality on July 1, 1913. Dr. Ramon P. Santos lauded Mayor Evelyn T. Uy for taking the formidable challenge to host this first ever International Gongs and Bamboo Music Festival of NCCA to explore the

By Alma L. Tingcang

Tuesday, February 26, 2013 5

richness of Asian culture. “We are here to witness the first grandiose event. I am deeply grateful to Mayor Evelyn T. Uy for all the support to ensure the success of this festival. Music is the deepest expression of the soul and knowing each other’s feelings strengthens our bond. The people of today are distracted by too much entertainment. People now are more fond of their laptops, cellular phones and other modern gadgets,” NCCA Chair Felipe de Leon said. The Dipolog City Marimba Ensemble, a smooth transition from rondalla to bamboo marimba music and a national winner in the prestigious National Music Competition for Young Artists, brought the house down with its

performance in the opening night.Vietnam’s Khac Chi Music captivated the audience as they brought traditional music to their audience, coming up

with lively arrangements of Vietnamese traditional, folk tunes and creative stage antics to capture their listeners. The show was full of crowd-pleasing moments. The performers were Chi Ho and his wife, Bic Hoang who once taught at the University of British Columbia in Vietnam, performing mostly on the


instruments that are indigenous to Vietnam. Chi Ho received the first prize in the 1982 Vietnam Competition of Professional instrumentalists on the Dan Bau. He invented the Sao bop and named it in English as “squeezing bamboo flutes” which he played during the opening. Noreum Machi of South Korea specializes in the virtuosic percussion music known as Samul-nori. This exciting music is a modernized-stage adaptation of the ancient Pungmul-nori farmers ritual that had its origin

in shamanism and animism. Samul-nori (Samul meaning “four objects” and Nori meaning “play”) is performed primarily on four traditional instruments; Jang-gu, Buk, Jing, and Kkwaenggwari. Other instruments used are the Taepyongso and Piri. Each of the four main instruments represents

different elements of nature: the Jang-gu represents Rain, the Buk Clouds, the Jing Wind, and the Kkwaenggwari Thunder Storm. For the final concert, performers included Ensemble Moderu Palu of Indonesia, Maguindanao Kulintang Ensemble from Cotabato City and Taiwan Bamboo Orchestra including all the 209 artists and musicians. Other performers came from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand and Canada. Local tribes from Baguio City, Ifugao, Panay Islands, Cotabago City, Maguindanao, Davao City, Sulu, Basilan, Siayan ug Dipolog City also participated in the festival. Mayor Uy expressed her profound thanks to all the working committees and for making the festival a resounding success.


ACROSS THE NATIONPresident Aquino calls on the young to unite in protecting country’s democracy

President Benigno S. Aquino III called on the young to unite in protecting the country’s democracy that was restored by the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986.

In his speech at the Tatak EDSA Salu-Salubungang Pambata held at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacanang Palace on Monday, the Chief Executive said the future of democracy lies in the hands of children and youth.

“Ngayon ngang nagtagumpay na tayo at malaya sa diktador, inaasahan namin na kayong kabataan, pati na ang susunod na henerasyon, na gawin ang

tama sa lahat ng oras,” he said. “Minsan ngang sinabi ng tatay ko, “The

ball is now in your hands.” Ipinapasa niya na sa akin ang pagkakataon para mag-desisyon at gawin kung ano ang tama. Ngayon naman, turno kong sabihin sa inyo, ‘Nasa kamay na ninyo ang kakayahan na gawin ang tama, at iwasan ang mali’,” the President stressed.

President Aquino told the young

8Tuesday, February 26, 2013

participants, composed of children from various orphanages in the country, to remember the sacrifices of the Filipinos to end the oppressive Marcos regime. The bloodless People Power Revolution renewed the power of the people, strengthened the meaning of democracy, and restored the democratic institutions of government.

The true empowerment of democracy was exhibited in EDSA when Filipinos managed to successfully oust a tyrant through a demonstration without violence and bloodshed.

“Nagdesisyon ang milyun-milyong mga Pilipino—mga pari, madre, pulis, sundalo, estudyante’t maraming sibilyan—na dapat nang alisin ang nagpapahirap sa bayan. Sa loob ng apat na araw ng pagdarasal, paninindigan, at pagsasama-sama sa EDSA, tahimik at mapayapang nagwakasasan ang pakikipaglaban sa diktadurya,” he said.

The President acknowledged the role of the youth in protecting our freedom and democracy.

“Umaasa akong magpapakabait kayo at iingatan ninyo and ipapamana naming malayang pamumuhay. Bilang

responsableng kabataan, alam kong hindi kayo mandaraya sa mga test?” he said

“Tiwala akong hindi kayo mananahimik na lang kapag may nakita kayong mali. Alam kong tutulungan ninyo ang kapwa ninyong nangangailangan. Dahil kapag pinairal ninyo ang mabuting asal, siguradong mas magandang buhay ang naghihintay sa inyo sa hinaharap,” he added.

In the afternoon, Malacanang opened the gates to welcome children from seven orphanages namely, Associacion de Demas Filipinas Inc., Dar Amanah Children’s Village Foundation Inc., Bukas Palad Foundation of the Philippines, Casa Miani: San Jose, Sulyap ng Pag-Asa Foundation, Gawad Kalinga Baseco Compound and Families and Children for Employment and Development Foundation.

The program opened with storytelling activities imparting Filipino values to the children. The children watched performances and listened to the youth leaders who pledged to do their best to contribute to the country. PND (js)


President Aquino appeals to Sultan of Sulu to recall followers and end Sabah Standoff

President Benigno S. Aquino III appealed to Sultan Jamalul Kiram III of Sulu to recall his followers holed

up in a portion of Lahad Datu town in the eastern province of Sabah, Malaysia in order to peacefully end the two-week standoff between Malaysian authorities and the Sulu Sultan who has been pressing his people’s claim to said land.

10Tuesday, February 26, 2013

The President aired his appeal in a press conference with the Malacanang Press Corps that was aired over government-run television and radio stations People’s Television (PTV-4) and dzRB Radyoo ng Bayan on Tuesday.

“And so this is my appeal to you: These are your people, and it behooves you to recall them. It must be clear to you that this small group of people will not succeed in addressing your grievances, and that there is no way that force can achieve your aims,” the President said.

“You are a leader of your clan, and every leader seeks the well-being of his constituents. These times require you to use your influence to prevail on our countrymen to desist from this hopeless cause,” he added.

According to the President, Philippine and Malaysian authorities have been coordinating efforts to peacefully resolve the situation...and have not ceased.”

“What is clear is that a peaceful resolution of this issue is to everybody’s interest. Even if we assume, for the

sake of argument, that there are legitimate grievances, the presence of an armed group in Lahad Datu will only bring us further away from resolving these issues,” the President said.

“From the three extensions of the deadline given by Malaysia, to the constant coordination as events unfolded, our efforts have not ceased,” he stressed.

He pointed out that it was not too late for all parties to sit down and discuss the issues concerned peacefully and according to law.

“The avenue of peaceful and open dialogue is still available to us. Let us therefore sit down as brothers to address your grievances in a peaceful, calm manner according to our laws and according to correct processes when your people arrive home,” the President said.

“Let us ease the tensions first then within two weeks later, then we can sit down with Sultan Jamalul Kiram III and precisely map out their grievances and see the way forward after that,” he concluded. /pnd-rck


Malacañang bares members of Transition Commission tasked to draft Bangsamoro Basic Law

President Benigno S. Aquino III has appointed the 15 members of the Transition Commission that is tasked to draft the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda made the announcement at a press briefing in Malacanang on Monday.

On the part of the Government of the Philippines panel, the seven appointees are: Hon. Akmad A. Sakkam, Hon. Johaira C. Wahab,


Hon. Talib A. Benito, Hon. Asani S. Tammang, Hon. Pedrito A. Eisma, Hon. Froilyn T. Mendoza, and Hon. Fatmawati T. Salapuddin.

Those selected by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are: Hon. Mohagher Iqbal, who is the chairman of the Transition Commission; Hon. Robert M. Alonto, Hon. Abdulla U. Camlian, Hon. Ibrahim D. Ali, Hon. Raissa H. Jajurie, Hon. Melanio U. Ulama, Hon. Hussein P. Munoz and Hon. Said M. Shiek.

Pursuant to Executive Order 120 series of 2013, the Transition Commission is composed of 15 members; seven to be chosen by the President and eight, including the chairman, selected by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

According to Lacierda, the seven appointees of the government panel underwent thorough screening and evaluation by a Transition Commission Selection Body composed of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos-Deles, and the Secretary of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Mehol Sadain.

Among the qualification requirements considered by the body for each appointee include: a Bangsamoro, a track record in support of the peace process, established probity, and untainted by any charge or suspicion of corruption or abuse of

power.“The appointment of these

individuals who represent vital Bangsamoro constituencies and have proven their commitment to pursuing amity and goodwill in Muslim Mindanao is a key step on the roadmap to the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Political Entity,” Lacierda said.

“This is a manifestation of the seriousness of both the Philippine Government and the MILF to uphold the historic Framework Agreement and move forward in the peace process,” he added.

Lacierda said the transition commission has an initial budget allocation of P100 million. PND (jb)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- Two community hospitals and a num-ber of rural health units in South Cotabato have been allotted P26 million intended to the upgrade of these health facilities.

South Cotabato hospitals, health stations get P26-M for upgradesBy Danilo E. Doguiles


South Cotabato 2nd District Rep. Daisy Avance-Fuentes announced in her radio program last Friday that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has already approved the release of this fund under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) of the Department of Health (DOH).

The funding are specifically designed for the purchase of additional equipment for the Norala District Hospital and Lake Sebu Municipal Hospital. Out of the same funding,

several rural health units and barangay health stations will also undergo repair, rehabilitation and expansion.

Cong. Fuentes said, P8.5 million was assigned to Norala District Hospital and P7 million to Lake Sebu Municipal Hospital for equipment upgrade.

Banga, Lake Sebu, and Surallah towns will also get, P2.5 million, P2 million and P1.5 million for repair, renovation and expansion of their RHUs.

F u r t h e r m o r e , P1.5 million to P4.5 million have also been

allocated for barangay health centers of Purok Matagumpay in Koronadal City, Barangay New Cuyapo in Tantangan, and Barangay Simsiman in Norala.

“We are hoping that the implementation of these projects could begin before the May 13 elections,” the congresswoman said.

She also assured that these projects will be fully funded and will be implemented even after the midterm elections.

“In fact, we’re following up some of our other project


proposals for health infrastructure that could also be funded and implemented later this year,” she said.

Meantime, since some of the personnel of Lake Sebu Municipal Hospital could be transferred once the Upper Valley Community Hospital in nearby Surallah town will be in operation, Fuentes urged the local government of Lake Sebu to rationalize the planned upgrading of equipment.

“Instead of putting

in additional funds for the Lake Sebu hospital, it might be better if we just focus on further expanding the Upper Valley Community Hospital and pursue its development into a regional medical center,” she said.

UVCH, being constructed with funding from the DOH and the San Miguel Corporation (SMC) , could begin operation this year initially as a maternity hospital.

For the said project, SMC donated P25

million while the DOH through its HFEP has given nearly P28 million to start the construction of the health facility.

Meanwhile, the provincial government of South Cotabato has proposed to the DOH 12 and the Regional Development Council-12 that the hospital in Lake Sebu be developed to become the Regional Drug Rehabilitation Center of Soccsksargen 12. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

TACURONG CITY, Sultan Kudarat -- “When I learned that I am among the recipients of this livelihood project, I was overjoyed,” said Vergel Kilayco, an out-of-school youth and resident of Barangay Baras, this city.

50 OSYs in Tacurong City get free livelihood trainingby Jezereel Louise Billano

“At present, I am jobless but after this training, I would have better chances of getting a job,” he added.

Kilayco and 49 other OSYs in Tacurong City are expected to begin their training on

commercial cooking and housekeeping.

This after the launching of the Cash for Training Program (C4TP) in the city on February 22.

Intended for training of disadvantaged youths for possible

employment, said project is implemented through a partnership between the loca government unit and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) 12.

Twenty-five of the beneficiaries will


undergo training on commercial cooking, and the remaining will be training for housekeeping.

The former is under the wage-employment (trabaho) component, while the latter is under the project’s s e l f - e m p l o y m e n t c o m p o n e n t (hanapbuhay).

All 50 scholars will be trained by the Sultan Kudarat Educational Institution (SKEI), a TESDA-accredited school in the city.

Tacurong C4TP scholars were identified by the City Social Welfare and

Development (CSWD). Each scholar will

receive assistance amounting to PhP20,000. This amount includes tuition/training fee, allowance, and tool kits for those who chose the self-employment component.

Scholars will also be aided in taking the assessment for National Certificate II (NC II) which will be helpful in finding jobs. Entrepreneurial trainings will also be conducted to help scholars put up their own business.

C4TP launching

program in Tacurong was attended by the scholars, TESDA 12 regional Director Zeus Ampuyas, and TESDA 12 C4TP focal person Jeanette Cortez as well as other officials of the city and the partner agencies.

“We expect the scholars’ full dedication to finish this training. Everything is for free so what they are left to do is to actively participate and make the most out of this opportunity,”director Ampuyas said. (DED-PIA 12/Jezereel Louise Billano-LGU Tacurong)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato– Infrastructure projects worth P81.2 million will soon be implemented by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in a former war-torn village in Makilala town.

DAR commits P81.2M projects for residents of Sitio Lacobe in MakilalaBy Aida C. Agad

This came after groups of Christians and Muslim farmers at odds with each other because land conflict, agreed through a Memorandum of Agreement to a peaceful co-existence as they vow to end their four-decade old differences and fightings, a report from the local government said.

The infrastructure projects, the report said is part of the Mindanao Sustainable Agrarian and Agricultural Development Project which DAR implements here in the region.

These projects include the DAR–OPAPP–PAMANA Pillar 2 projects worth P0.9 M.

Also in the project list are farm-to-market roads (FMR),

specifically the 8–Km M a l a b u a n – B a t o –Lacobe stretch worth P14M; the Malabuan–New Baguio FMR worth P2.8M and the Malabuan–Paraiso FMR worth P17M.

A Potable Water Supply project worth P1.3 M will also be established to provide potable water to 103 Households in the area.

Other support projects under the Agricultural Development sector are the P34M worth of Agri-business on Rubber Production to cover 1,072 h e c t a r e s , Agri-business on Coffee P r o d u c t i o n worth P5.1M to cover 225 hectares, Goat

Production worth P0.5M, Cattle Breeding worth P0.5M and Agro-Forestry Project worth P5.1M covering about 20 hectares of agro-forest land.

DAR secretary Virgilio delos Reyes, Cotabato governor Emmylou Mendoza and Makilala mayor Rudy Caoagdan witnessed the historic signing of the agreement in a ceremony dubbed “Kanduli for Peace and Development” held last January 31, 2013. (ACAgad PIA12)


New PIA chief, Gawad Kalinga visit Basilan; Bayani Challenge 2013 launching set

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Newly installed Director General of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) visited Basilan Friday to prepare for the local launching of the national event dubbed “Bayani Challenge 2013.”

By Rene V. Carbayas


DG Jose Mari Oquiñena together with a team from Gawad Kalinga (GK) paid a courtesy call on Basilan Gov. Jum Akbar to discuss the housing projects for the province as part of the simultaneous nationwide Bayani Challenge launch in 34 provinces. Bayani Challenge is a gathering of volunteers that give their best and work together toward the goal of expressing love for country and caring for the poor through building homes, repairing schools, health missions, tree planting, activities with the kids and many more. Its website is inviting volunteers to help build this nation once again this March 23–27, 2013. GK Executive Director Luis Oquiñena explained that the Bayani Challenge project in Basilan “is in support of the province’s peace and development efforts.” He said the Gawad Kalinga partners have agreed to donate 30 houses for the GK site

in Pamucalin, Lantawan in Basilan. “We hope this can be a convergence also where local volunteers can work together. And we bring in people from Luzon [for them] to begin [to] see the beauty of not just the people but on the process, how you are trying to build peace,” he said. He explained that the roadmap of Bayani Challenge is three-fold : first, people needs to learn to work with one another; second, working together with partners; and third, implementing local initiatives. DG Oquiñena stressed that the project is “not our ordinary shelter program but a “bayanihan,” a challenge to sustain community life in the housing site.” GK officials said that the Bayani Challenge launch in Basilan will be an opportunity to market Basilan as a potential tourism destination. The GK Executive Director said that


bringing in non-government officials, especially private individuals, to Basilan will project to the outside world a sense of safety and security in the area. The GK team also discussed some development projects that its partners can provide in support of the peace and development efforts of Team Basilan. GK chief Oquiñena further said that he looked forward to more participation from the youth of Basilan and encouraged local officials to involve the youth in development projects. “The youth must do something concrete, not just stay in a weekend camp,” he said. The project site in Lantawan will

serve as a show window, showcasing the power of volunteerism and convergence of people to help transform lives. GK officials are optimistic that the Bayani Challenge launching in Basilan will stand out among the 34 provinces. After the courtesy call with the governor, the visitors together with the Philippine Army’s 104th Brigade Commander Col. Carlito Galvez and some mayors visited the site despite heavy rains. They also visited the White Beach resort in Malamawi Island. Governor Jum Akbar was thankful to GK for considering Basilan as one of the beneficiaries of its project.


Infirmary, cultural center to rise in Lamitan City

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – An infirmary and a cultural heritage center will soon rise in Lamitan City as officials from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) led the ground-breaking ceremony recently.

By Rene V. Carbayas

Felipe Fernando, city information officer-designate reported that the two projects funded by the Transition Investment Support Plan (TISP) for ARMM will be constructed soon that will enhance health service delivery and promote cultural preservation. City Mayor Roderick H. Furigay together with ARMM OIC Regional Gov. Mujiv Hataman led the ground breaking ceremony of the projects for Lamitan City last Feb. 6. The projects include the construction of Lamitan Kong Mahal Infirmary and the Yakan Cultural Heritage building. Mayor Furigay had earlier announced during his State of the City Address (SOCA that the projects will be finished in four or three months. City Health Officer Dr. Vicente P. Yu III said that the infirmary will have limited bed capacity as the structure is for out-patients only. The cultural center, meanwhile, will house the Yakan hand weaving industry with facilities to be supported by the Department of Trade and

Industry (DTI). In a news report, Amir Mawallil, chief of the ARMM’s communications office, said the ARMM governor spearheaded the ground-breaking ceremonies for the construction of P7.8 million of projects in Lamitan City. The projects include a P4.8 million worth of building that would house the Infirmary Hospital of Lamitan City and a P3-million building for the Yakan hand weaving center, Mawallil said. Present during the groundbreaking ceremony were Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman, Regional Vice Governor Bainong G. Karon, Jr., Congressman Jim S. Hataman, Provincial Governor Jum Akbar, Regional Secretary of DILG Atty. Makmod D. Mending, Jr., Regional Secretary of Health Kadil M. Sinolinding, Jr., Regional Secretary of Education Jamal M. Kulayan, Secretary of DOLE Muslimin A. Jakilan, Omar Jaafar, ARMM Social Fund, Secretaries of DENR, DAR and Director of DTI Del Mar D. Halipa.


CATEEL, DAVAO ORIENTAL — The United States Government has donated 2.1 million kilos of rice for the typhoon-stricken provinces of Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley to help feed thousands of families affected by typhoon Pab-lo.

No less than US Ambassador to the Philippines, Harry K. Thomas, Jr. personally handed over the rice donation at the Cateel Typhoon Response Hub last February 20, which will be channeled through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for fair and transparent distribution. The 2.1 million kilos of rice contribution is part of the total 5.5 million kilos

or 55 metric tons of rice the US government is providing for typhoon Pablo victims in Mindanao, wherein the first 1.7 million kilos were handed over by USAID Philippines Mission Director Gloria Steele in Davao City last January 18.

US provides more aid to Pablo victims


US provides more aid to Pablo victims

During his visit, the ambassador said that the US Government in collaboration with the Philippine Government’s Department of Health is providing medium-term assistance valued at P41-million through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) intended to health projects for the restoration of rural health services. Additionally, the US government also offered medical assistance including zinc supplementation for the treatment of diarrhea in town of Boston and provided health kits to 4,500 families in Davao Oriental and 1,175 families in Compostela Valley. Meanwhile, backing the efforts of local governments and communities to prevent and curtail the impact of disasters in the future, Ambassador Thomas announced that the US government is allocating a new funding amounting to P246-million or US $6 million in carrying out disaster risk reduction activities in the Philippines. He said that this funding aims to bring disaster reduction programs to local government units and communities including Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley. Training communities on how to set up disaster early warning systems, developing contingency plans for evacuation and establish structures fast, and appropriately response when disaster strikes are among the activities included in the program.

Davao Oriental Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon thanked the overwhelming assistance extended by the US government who were one of the first to extend help to the province. In coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the US Military provided air transport that allowed some of the first relief supplies to reach affected areas last December. Governor Malanyaon also thanked other humanitarian organizations including the World Food Program under the United Nations who assured the food supply up to the end of June this year. Asaka Nyangara WFP Country Director said that they have also received aid from the US government intended for the typhoon Pablo victims wherein the share of each province will depend on the needs assessment survey they have conducted last month. “The provincial government is taking the lead in the post-disaster needs assessment and based on that outcome we will be able to revise our plan,” he said. The Governor stated that the provincial government is harmonizing not only the relief operations but also in the rehabilitation process especially now that the province is starting its journey towards building better communities. During his visit, Ambassador Thomas also thanked the Filipinos


for being one of the first to extend aid last October as hurricane Sandy swept through the US eastern coast leaving dozens dead, thousands homeless, and millions without power. “To me, this demonstrates how strong the relationship is between the people of the Philippines and the US especially in times of great need. We sincerely hope that our assistance will meet the crucial needs of those most affected and support their recovery,” he said. Today, the US government has pro vided over of P584-million or 1$2.4 million in support the Philippine Typhoon Pablo response. USAID Philippine Mission Director Gloria Steele said that all assistance extended by the US government for the victims of Typhoon Pablo will also be channeled through the WFP, Plan International

and the Catholic Relief Services. Ambassador Harry Thomas said that the US government stands ready to work with the Philippine government to carry out mid and long term recovery efforts in the areas of health, education, small scale infra reconstruction, and environmental activities. “We truly applaud your unsinkable and steadfast ‘bayanihan spirit’,” he said. “This contribution is our way of expressing solid support for the courage, and heroism demonstrated of Filipinos in the wake of this calamity. We are so pleased to support the Philippine government in its effort to restore normalcy in the life of affected Filipinos whose extraordinary courage we truly admire,” he said. (By Karen Lou Deloso)

Multimedia Tech Educates Farmers TogetherDAVAO CITY – Simple technologies like text messaging and the good use of today’s media tools can go a long way in educating farmers and bringing them to the forefront of business—where they should be. The local multimedia program of the ACDI/VOCA, a nonprofit organiza-tion that promotes economic growth for low-income countries, is a testa-ment to this.

Through the CoCoPal Project, a nonprofit initiative by ACDI/VOCA for cocoa, coconut and palay-producing farmers, over 3000 farmers are now able to learn the best practices in ag-riculture through different media plat-forms. “The ACDI/VOCA’s vision is to empower people and for businesses succeed in global economy,” ACDI/VOCA training and extension coor


dinator Janoz Laquihon said. “With that note, we use multimedia through CoCoPal with hopes to empower the value of the key players of cacao, co-conut and rice. To meet this goal, we will disseminate vital information and knowledge through radio, TV, print, text messaging and maybe even the Internet!” One is the AM radio school which takes form in on-air shows; these tackle industry topics that range from farming to business, and specific dis-cussions on trading, storage, produc-tion, etc. Print newsletters will also be cir-culated; these will contain communi-ty updates, success stories, profiles, and how-to articles to further enhance farming techniques. Another highlight of the multi-media program is Infotext. This tech-nology that allows farmers to text keywords to a certain number so that they can get computer-generated in-

formation, and answers to questions about farm-ing and agriculture. This comes handy when farm-ers want to instantly know more about the best prac-tices in their field. Should they find the need for assistance, they can also use Infotext as a text hotline where an operator can get in touch with them for farming-re-lated queries or problems; the operator can then co-ordinate with a farming expert real-time! Through the program,

ACDI/VOCA is also able to connect the significant members of the trade chain: business persons can get in-formation through newsletters and a cable TV channel, while the farmers can stay informed through AM radio shows and Infotext. This enables a system where knowledge and edu-cation can freely cycle among them.(Karla Singson photos JKR Multime-dia)


Application for local absentee voting now acceptedby Jasper Marie Oblina-Rucat

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Commission on Elections Region 10 (Comelec-10) is calling all government officials and members, AFP and PNP to submit application for local absentee voting not later than March 15 as well as members of media not beyond March 31.

In the resolution no. 9637, early voting for members of the Mass Media in the May 2013 is allowed. They are entitled to such early voting since they will not be able to vote due to the performance of their functions in covering and reporting the conduct of elections. Acting regional election director of Region 10 Noli R. Pipo said duly registered voters of government officials and employees including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are allowed to vote for the national positions such Senators and Party-List Representatives in places where they


This came about after BJMP Officer-in-Charge, JCSupt Diony Dacanay Mamaril, directed all the regional directors to institute proactive measures to totally eradicate HR violations in their respective area of responsibility. The installation of HR desk as well as the feedback mechanism, “e-text/

e-tawag kay Tsip” primarily aims to solicit comments or complaints from the inmates as well as the transacting public, requiring transparency and accountability on the part of all BJMP personnel. People can directly report complaints of abuses, maltreatment, exploitation, extortion, and other.

BJMP sets-up help desk vs HR violationsby Jeza Mae Sarah Sanchez

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) here recently completed the installation of Human Rights Desk in all its jail facilities throughout Northern Mindanao.

are not registered but where they are temporarily assigned to perform election duties on election day as provided under Executive Order No. 157 and Republic Act No. 7166. As such, government officials and employees, members of the AFP and PNP can submit their applications to their heads of offices/ supervisors and commanders. Meanwhile the media can submit to either the office of the Provincial Election Supervisor (OPES) where they are registered as a voter, or the Office of the City Election Officer (OCEO) in case of highly urbanized or independent cities such as Iligan and Cagayan de Oro City in region 10 if they are registered in the two cities. Local absentee voters shall vote any day from April 28, 29, and 30 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. under the direct supervision and presence of the municipal, city, district EO or

his representative; or the PES or his representative. On the other hand, voting of government officials and employees, the AFP and PNP, head of office/supervisor/commander shall not be later than April 15 provided there is a written notice upon the municipal/city/district EO. Further, media voters shall vote in the Comelec office where they filed their applications to avail the local absentee voting. Specifically, local absentee voters shall vote not earlier than 15 days before the elections nor later than 12 days before the elections. According to Atty. Pipo, the May 13 synchronized national, local and ARMM regional elections, absentee voters can only vote for the positions of senators and Party-List representative.


The project initiates massive vaccination and have served 11,215 farm animals, like cattle, carabao, swine, and goat. The vaccination is done twice

a year, or once on every semester through house to house visits. Services include treatment, deworming, castration and artificial insemination (AI) said Louis S. Bollozos, provincial veterinarian. Last year, he noted more than 7,000 heads have underwent treatment and another 8,500 animals were de-wormed. For artificial insemination, 130 cattle, eight carabaos, and 517 swine were recorded served by the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO). PVO has maintained an animal breeding center that holds parent stocks of livestock animals for production purposes and dispersal. The breeding center, according to Bollozos, also serves as show window to livestock farmers.

Camiguin animals get free vet services year roundby Jorie C. Valcorza

MAMBAJAO, Camiguin - Farming families here benefit from the government subsidized veterinary services. The services target to sustain the livestock industry and in support of the food security program.

anomalies committed by BJMP personnel through the help desk or through the use of cellular phones. The Office of the OIC, BJMP can be directly reached through these numbers: 0939 2752427 for Smart, 0915 3111580 (Globe) and 0933

3841574 (Sun) Cellular subscribers. “Measures like this need to be done, if we are to remain true with the Philippine jail system’s shift from punishment to rehabilitation,” JSSupt Marlon C. Torregue, BJMP10, OIC was quoted as saying.


DSWD Region 13 warns ‘Epals’ to take hands off 4Ps Program

BUTUAN CITY -- Newly assumed Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 13 Director Minda B. Brigoli told politicians to take their hands off from the department’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) as she disclosed their “Bawal Ang Epal Dito” campaign.

www.piacaraga.blogspot.com h t t p : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k .

by Noel B. Najarro


Brigoli made the call during a press conference at her office here Monday afternoon.

With the tag line “Makialam. Magsumbong. Bawal Ang Epal Dito,” Dir. Brigoli said their department’s campaign aims to eliminate the “epal” in the implementation of its 4Ps.

She pointed out that the campaign also aims to empower the beneficiaries of the knowledge that no one has the right to delist a beneficiary and that only the DSWD Regional and National Office are authorized to delist a beneficiary if he or she did not comply the conditions.

The campaign, she said, was conceptualized because the department would like to protect its beneficiaries from being used or threatened by politicians and other groups to gain votes for the upcoming 2013 May election.

“The ‘Bawal Ang Epal Dito’ campaign will also directly eliminate the misconceptions of the beneficiaries about the controls of the politicians over them,” she stressed.

Campaign materials of the “Bawal Ang Epal Dito,” such as tarpaulins will be displayed in the Pantawid Pamilya areas and during pay-out cash grants; brochures, flyers, stickers and button pins will be distributed to the beneficiaries as well.

Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program is one of the government’s poverty reduction programs implemented by the DSWD. It has been implemented here in the Caraga region since 2008. To date, the program is implemented in all municipalities and cities in the region with 160,908 beneficiaries in the region as of February 2013.(PNA)

by Noel B. Najarro

PRO-13 commemorates EDSA ‘People Power Revolution’ with resolute messages on reformsBUTUAN CITY -- The Police Regional Office in Region 13 simply but meaningfully celebrated the 27th EDSA People Power Revolution with resolute messages on reforms, Monday morning.


PRO-13 commemorates EDSA ‘People Power Revolution’ with resolute messages on reforms

During the traditional Monday flag-raising ceremony held at Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez grandstand, Caraga Police Director Chief Supt. Getulio Napenas reminded his police personnel and officers of the “dark days” of the Marcos regime.

“Looking back on those days,” Napenas said, “we have elections replete with incidents of cheating, violations of human rights perpetrated not only by those belonging to the armed services but by politicians and government workers as well,” he said.

Now, according to the official, there still might be similar incidences but in much lesser number compared to during the pre-EDSA People Power days.

“People are more aware now of their human rights,” Napenas added.

He also said that those who are in the armed services such as the police and the military nowadays, are more observant of the citizen’s human rights.

He likewise reminded his audience that fighting insurgency cannot be won only by armed confrontation.

“The solution of insurgency is not body count…it’s not war. It is still development and observance of good governance,” Napenas said.

He quoted President Benigno Aquino III as saying that “sa

stratehiyang mapayapa at mapag-uusapan at sa pagkakaisa sa programang alam po natin ay ‘matuwid na daan,’” (with peaceful strategies and participative consultations and unity in the programs which we knew may lead us to the ‘path called straight’) he said.

He pointed out that maximum tolerance during rallies or other forms of mass actions will be observed, unless the protestors will become unruly or resort to violence.

He also pointed out that there is no such thing called as “revolutionary taxes.”

Monetary collections by armed groups, he said, are “just plainly extortion.”

According to him, there is no way of knowing where those collected huge amounts have gone, unlike the taxes paid to the government, which always come back to the people in the forms of roads, infrastructure projects, education and many other forms of services.

Napenas also emphasized the present challenges of individual and institutional reforms that the PNP must pursue and the significant activities ahead such as the forthcoming May 2013 elections which should be conducted credibly and peacefully.


DAR, coffee co-op sign P2.9-M economic support servicesby Myra Q. Yu

SURIGAO DEL SUR-- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) here and the Mabuhay Kahayagan Coffee Growers Cooperative (MKCGC) signed a memorandum Of agreement (MOA) for the implementation of the P2.9 million Agrarian Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) held recently at Barangay Kahayagan, Tagbina.

The service facilities include 4WD tractor, huller, grass cutter, power sprayer, and flat bed dryer.

The event was participated by DAR officials and staff headed by PARO Hernane Apacible and the officers and members of MKCGC. On the said occasion, the duties and responsibilities of the organization were presented.

Municipal Agrarian Reform Officer Esteban Dumagan said in

his message that the secret of the grant of the project is the sincere participation and cooperation among officers and members of the coop and most importantly the community as a whole.

MKCGC Chair Leonardo Evangelista expressed his strong commitment that they will take good care of the project and grateful to DAR for extending support to their organization.


For the list of Philippine holidays in 2013 through Proc. No. 459, just visit the PIA-Caraga Blogspot at www.piacaraga.blogspot.com for the copy of the said proclamation...


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In a meeting held recently by Convergence Initiative Program for Poverty Reduction (CIPPR) member-agencies consisting of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of

Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Fiber Development Authority (FIDA) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA), an assessment of the programs implemented by each agency in the pilot municipalities was made to determine “the things

NGAs, LGUs beef up convergence for poverty reductionBy Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY - Reducing poverty by infusing livelihoods in poor communities is still in the heart of national government agencies (NGAs) and local government units (LGUs) in the region.


The event, which will be launched simultaneously in 34 provinces nationwide, embarks on charitable works like building houses for the homeless, repairing schools,

health missions, tree planting, coastal cleanup, feeding program and many more. Bayani Challenge, which was established in 2006 by Gawad

that were already accomplished and those that need to be done.” Ms. Elizabeth Dy of DSWD-IX reported that the cash-for-work funds were already downloaded to 13 municipalities in Zamboanga del Norte, namely, Baliguian, Godod, Gutalac, Jose Dalman, Kalawit, Katipunan, Leon Postigo, Manukan, Roxas, Sergio Osmeňa, Siayan, Sibuco and Sindangan. Among the recipient-towns, Sibuco and Siayan got P2 million each; Sindangan received P1.5 million and the rest were each allotted P 1 million. The cash-for-work program gives the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4P) beneficiaries a chance to work for 22 days at P200 per day. The implementation of the cash-for-work program in these 13 pilot municipalities, which are the first set of 4P recipient-municipalities in Zamboanga del Norte, was in

support of the government’s National Greening Program (NGP) le by the DENR. In Sibuco town, for instance, the DENR provided the planting materials such as the rubber tree seedlings and indigenous forest/fruit tree seedlings to be planted by 4P beneficiaries under the cash-for-work program in areas identified by the municipal government. DA and FIDA, on the other hand, have pledged to provide financial and technical support to 4P beneficiaries who would engage in planting cash crops like abaca, rubber trees and others. Attending the CIPPR meeting were regional directors Eduardo B. Holoyohoy of DA, Olympio Macarayan of FIDA and Noemi B. Edaga of PIA, assistant regional director Riduan Hadjimuddin of DSWD and regional technical director Ali M. Bari of DENR.

Bayani Challenge 2013 launch set March 23-27 in Katipunan townBy Mary May A. Abellon

DIPOLOG CITY - The municipality of Katipunan will play host to the launching of “Bayani Challenge 2013” with the theme, “Isang Bayan, Isang Bayanihan” come March 23-27.


Kalinga, has been able to draw a throng of volunteers year after year. It then became a multi-sectoral event supported by both the public and private sectors. To refuel the frazzled souls of the volunteers, they shall be regaled with sports competitions like basketball, dodge ball, volleyball, soccer, frisbee, tug of war, and other pinoy games. Volunteers will also compete in a bayanihan race and master kusinero challenge. In master kusinero challenge, the volunteers will compete in cooking the best dish using indigenous ingredients in the locality. The other provinces where the simultaneous launching of Bayanihan Challenge for nation-building will be conducted are Agusan del Sur, Antique, Basilan, Bohol, Bukidnon, Camarines Norte, Cavite, Cebu, Compostela Valley, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Isabela, Laguna, Lanao del Norte, Leyte, Metro Manila, Mindoro Oriental, Misamis Oriental, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Pangasinan, Samar, South Cotabato, South Cotabato, Southern Leyte, Sultan Kudarat, Surigao del Norte, Zambales, Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay. In 2006, the Bayanihan Challenge took the lead in building houses for 25 families in St. Bernard, Southern Leyte with 400 volunteers. It was dubbed “A Race to Rebuild a Nation.” Bayani Challenge 2007:

Rebolusyon ng Pag-asa, was participated in by 3,000 volunteers to rebuild the lives of 230 families in Camarines Sur, Albay, Marinduque and Sorsogon. In Bayani Challenge 2008, which titled “The More We Sweat for Peace, The Less We Bleed in War,” there were 1,500 valiant volunteers bringing hope for 75 families in Bukidnon and Lanao Del Sur. Bayani Challenge 2009: Only For the Brave, Some 1,100 selfless volunteers reached out for 73 families in Sulu and Zamboanga City. In 2010, the Bayani Challenge launched a project called “Explore. Build. Protect,” with 1,200 volunteers racing against time to build homes for 70 families in Palawan. Bayani Challenge 2011:Kalinga sa Bayan, was joined by 2,000 volunteers who helped out 130 families in Bantayan Island of Cebu. Last year’s Bayani Challenge entitled “Pilipinas Ngayon Na!,” there were 10,000 volunteers helping some 2,000 families in Masbate, Mindoro, Negros Oriental, Cagayan de Oro & Iligan. Bayani Challenge is the best time to be a Filipino, for nation-building and to drive people into a spirit of volunteerism and move them to answer the call of bayanihan into a single goal to bring alive people power in every province and every town. The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) through the office of Undersecretary for Special


Concerns Jose Mari Oquiñena serves as Bayani Challenge Event Head with Pilipinas Natin (PN) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in partnership with Gawad Kalinga and other government owned and controlled corporations, agencies, entities and private organizations like the Department of Education (DepEd), National Youth Commission (NYC), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Health (DOH), TESDA, PAGCOR, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), National Telecommunication Commission (NTC), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), League of Provinces, EDSA People Power Commission,

Housing and urban Development Council, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP), Radyo ng Bayan, LBC Foundation, BERJAYA Corporation Berhad, Globe Telecom, People’s Television and others. Bayani Challenge for nation-building seeks to drive people into a spirit of volunteerism by keeping people power alive in every province/town. To join and be part of this historic event, the volunteers can participate individually or in groups by forming a team of 15, register at http://bayanichallenge2013.blogspot.com and choose the province they want to volunteer on the registration site.

PNP Training Center receives P2.7M covered courtBy Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC)- Regional Police Training Center located in Pasonanca is a recipient of a P2.7 million covered court from the city government.Sheila Covarrubias, Public Information Officer (PIO) said this infrastructure project, which was recently turned-over to PPSC, forms part of the city government’s commitment to public safety and support to the PNP’s mission to deliver high quality police services.

Covarrubias said the covered court would be used for PPSC’s numerous activities.

Mayor Celso Lobregat led the

turnover of the facility to the PPSC headed by its President, Atty. Ruben Platon.

“The turnover of the covered court came a few minutes before the inauguration of a training center building funded by the United States Assistance for International Development (USAID) and graced by US Ambassador Harry Thomas and Richard Miller of the US Embassy,” Covarrubias disclosed.


PNP Training Center receives P2.7M covered court

one mindanao - february 26, 2013

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