one mindanao - february 27, 2015

EDITORIAL ADVISERS

SEC. SONNY B. COLOMAPresidential Communications Operations Office

JOSE MARI M. OQUIÑENA Director General Philippine Information Agency

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

EFREN F. ELBANBUENACluster Head, Southern, Western and Central MindanaoRegional Director, PIA Region XI

MANAGING EDITOR ABNER M. CAGACluster Head, Northern & Northeastern MindanaoRegional Director - PIA Caraga Region

REGIONAL DESK EDITORS FRANKLIN P. GUMAPON, PIA Region IX

ALMA L. TINGCANG, PIA Region IX ELAINE O. RATUNIL, PIA Region X RUDOLPH IAN G. ALAMA, PIA Region XI DANNY E. DOGUILES, PIA Region XII FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region

COPY EDITORS

FRYAN E. ABKILAN, PIA Caraga Region NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE, PIA Caraga Region

SENIOR GRAPHICS LAYOUT ARTIST

GERIE MAE G. COCO, PIA Caraga Region

Western 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

SOCCSKSARGEN Region

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]

Northern Mindanao

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

Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga)

J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan CityTelephone no. (085) 341-5285Telefax no. (085) 341-2370Cellphone no. 0917-7188834Email: [email protected] , [email protected],phWebsite: www.piacaraga.comFacebook: PIA Caraga Updates, PIA Agusan del Norte, Pia Agusan del Sur, Pia Surigao del Norte, Pia Surigao del Sur, Pia Dinagat Islands Power FM - CaragaTwitter: https://twitter.com/PIACaraga

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]

LAYOUT ARTISTS

DOMINIC I. SANCHEZ, PIA Region IX RETCHIE TOLINERO, PIA Region X

ZENER DUMAGUING, PIA Region X

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

NOEMI B. EDAGARegional Director, PIA Region IX

THELMA B. OLIVERRegional Director, PIA Region X

OLIVIA T. SUDARIARegional Director, PIA Region XII

EDITORIAL BOARD

PIA REGIONAL OFFICESOne Mindanao

CONTENTS

Army troopers in clash with NPA rebels in SurSur

More investors, jobs in Zambo thru Ecozone this year

Families of slain SAF cops receive funeral assistance

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Saludo 2015… A breath-taking spectacleBy: Jay C. Dalman

Germany paves way for more Filipino dual citizens starting 2015

Govt to extend assistance to families affected by ongoing military operation in Central Mindanao

Butuan City rules in CRAM 2015Iligan Youth Affairs Office accepts SPES applicants

Coco coir, a booming industry in Lanao del Norte

By: Maj Christian C. Uy

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By: Danilo E. Doguiles

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DILG 12, religious sector launch program to monitor government projectsSOCCSKSARGEN to hold 1st Regional Farmers & Fisherfolks-Buyers Congress

By: Beatriz A. Torio

By: Dominic I. Sanchez

By: Gideon C. Corgue

By: Ben Cal

By: YAO-CMO

By: Vincent N. Labial

Cover Story

CARAGA

WESTERN

NORTHERN

INFOCUS SOCCSKSARGEN

SOUTHERNNATIONAL31 47 skills training beneficiaries receives

NCII in PanaboBy: Jasz Paras

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4 FEBRUARY 27, 2015One Mindanao

the Caraga Regional Athletic Meet 2015 kicked off with a blast of colors for the annually anticipated Saludo afternoon of February 22, 2015 held at the Surigao del Sur Sports Center arena in Tandag City. Everyone in attendance feasted on the impressive presentations of the 12 delegations

comprising the Region of Caraga. Every division has its unique and creative way of showcasing its exhibition. Government officials, DepEd Division Leaders, Physical Education and Sports Supervisor (PESS) Coordinators and guests led the forefront of their respective contingent which fostered an inspiration for every athlete to put their best foot forward.

By: Jay C. Dalman

Saludo 2015… A breath-taking spectacle

5FEBRUARY 27, 2015 One Mindanao

the Caraga Regional Athletic Meet 2015 kicked off with a blast of colors for the annually anticipated Saludo afternoon of February 22, 2015 held at the Surigao del Sur Sports Center arena in Tandag City. Everyone in attendance feasted on the impressive presentations of the 12 delegations

comprising the Region of Caraga. Every division has its unique and creative way of showcasing its exhibition. Government officials, DepEd Division Leaders, Physical Education and Sports Supervisor (PESS) Coordinators and guests led the forefront of their respective contingent which fostered an inspiration for every athlete to put their best foot forward.

The delegation from Agusan del Norte gave the fabulous opening in their red and white ensemble. Their entrance was highlighted by raising their caps in harmony with their chanting and hand movements.

Agusan del Sur Division followed

in a hue of lemon yellow designed with a patch of blue. The hand movements with emphasis of hand salutes wrapped their performance.


Bayugan City, who appeared in mint green and stripe yellow pattern, also showed a fantastic performance.

Maroon and white spelled the performance of Bislig City Division matched with smooth execution, synchronized foot work and chanting.

Butuan City nailed their performance by showcasing hand movements which emphasized the contrast of their green and yellow inspired uniform.

Meanwhile, Cabadbaran delegation appeared in a subtle avocado green with a complement of orange. Their entrance came out in a slow pacing, coordinated with dramatic strides which added effects to their already awe-inspiring performance.


The Dinagat Islands Division also came out in surprise with their powder blue and yellow attire accented with red backpacks. Their nice pacing quite made an impression on their over-all performance.

Another presentation which also made a mark was that of Siargao Division sporting a shade of violet variegated with white and yellow; their miming movements of the ocean waves brought the house down - truly our country’s surfing capital.

The throng of delegation from Surigao City emerged in royal blue and yellow. They gave a bit of hilarious ending by saying “‘Adto nami. Bye! ” which earned an outburst of laughter from the audience.

Surigao del Norte Division was not left behind as they turned up in perfect cadence and progressive chanting in orange and white uniform.


Tandag City made an impressive impact when they showed body formations and coordinated hand movements; they looked attractive in peach mixed with lines of sky blue and white which added to the flavor of their remarkable presentation.

Finally, it was a “save the best for last performance” for the host division - Surigao del Sur delivered a wonderful treat and wowed the audience

in their fuchsia with black and yellow accent. Their amazing interpretation of Surigao del Sur hymn was celebrated in hand gestures which made their performance unique and truly unparalleled.

As a whole, the SALUDO presentation has turned the entire field into colorful patterns, rhythmic cadence, synchronized chanting and choreographed hand movements. Indeed, it ushered for a wonderful beginning – an astounding expression of salutation - a perfect opening for CRAM 2015.


MANILA - President Benigno S. Aquino III and visiting Head of State of the French Republic, President Francois Hollande, witnessed the signing of several agreements on the protection of the environment and marine resources, higher education and research, tourism, and transportation, Thursday, February 26, at the Malacañan Palace.

PH and France intensify cooperation; sign agreements on key areas

The signing of the agreements took place on the first day of President Hollande’s visit, and is expected to significantly enhance the bilateral relations

between the Philippines and France through intensified cooperation in key areas, the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.


Declaration of Intent (DOI) of the Philippines and France on the Protection of the Environment and the Sustainable Development of Marine Resources Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario and French Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy Marie Segolene Royal signed a Declaration of Intent (DOI) concerning the protection of the environment and the sustainable

development of the marine resources of the Philippines. The collaboration between the Philippine and French Governments is intended to better understand, plan, and manage the consequences of climate change on the environment and marine resources. The cooperation is also expected to lead to the improvement in the living conditions of Filipino communities who are dependent on the oceans resources.


Memorandum of Understanding on Philippines-France Cooperation in the Area of Higher Education and Research

Secretary Del Rosario and French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius likewise signed on behalf of their respective Governments the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Philippines-France Cooperation in the Area of Higher Education and Research, which is envisioned to promote student mobility particularly in the masteral and doctoral levels, promote the recognition of degrees and diplomas of both parties by their respective qualifications frameworks, and facilitate the exchange of faculty, experts, administration personnel, academic personnel and students through university partnerships.

The MoU will also lead to the adoption of twinning and joint degree programs, intensify the implementation of joint international thesis supervision to strengthen the ties between

Filipino and French researchers and strengthen exchanges of information and cooperation on the quality of higher education.

Under the MoU, the Philippine Commission of Higher Education and the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research will aim to develop Philippines-France collaboration in the field of science for the period 2015-2020 through the following: exchanges of young researchers in post-doctoral residences, joint scientific seminars and joint research projects through research network involving laboratories of both countries.

In the past five years, more than 1,277 Filipinos travelled to France to study for short- and long-term studies. In the same period, some 50 Philippine institutions of higher learning have some form of cooperation with French educational institutions of higher learning such as joint research and exchange of professors and graduate students. French higher institutions ranks 19th in the OECD ranking in math and


sciences, ahead of Denmark and the United Kingdom. The MoU is expected to double the number of exchanges between the Philippines and France in the next five years as exchanges between educational institutions are facilitated. Students, researchers and professors from both countries are expected to keenly participate in this new and formalized cooperation.

Agreement on Tourism Cooperation

Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr. and French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius signed the Agreement on Tourism Cooperation, which is expected to enhance the two countries’ friendly bilateral relations through the promotion of the Philippines as a quality destination in France, the acquisition of best practices in natural and cultural heritage tourism, and the development of ecotourism and sustainable

tourism. Other benefits of the Agreement include the development of human resource capacities through education and training, the expansion of business opportunities for the Philippine industry private sector, the creation of new tourism products in line with sustainable tourism development and improvement of tourism marketing, and the utilization of new technologies in tourism.

France is the third largest tourist market of the Philippines in Europe and our country has been welcoming a growing number of French tourists every year. In 2013, the number of French tourists who went to the Philippines increased by almost 16%, to around 40,000 tourists. This number is expected to increase in 2015, especially with the declaration of 2015 as “Visit Philippines Year.

Philippine tourism has been attracting more attention in


France lately. Most recently, two French magazines – Elle and Lonely Planet – have already included the Philippines as one of their top ten destinations in 2015.

Contract for the Design and Construction of Manila Light Rail Transit Line 1 Extension

One of the documents signed was a Letter of Award between the Manila Light Rail Transit Corporation and a consortium composed of the global contractor, Bouygues Publics Travaux, and the leading transportation supplier Alstrom Transport, for the design and construction of Manila Light Rail

Transit Line 1 Extension. The project is to be implemented under a Private-Public Partnership scheme and consists of extending the existing LRT1 between Baclaran and Cavite by an elevated 12-kilometer leg with eight new stations, and upgrading the existing system between Roosevelt and Baclaran. This new transportation system will offer Manila inhabitants a safe, comfortable and rapid service to access the Manila City center and will contribute to improved mobility in Manila. Agreement for the Management, Operation and Maintenance of the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX)


The two Presidents also witnessed the signing of the agreement between the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) with the Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) for the management, operation and maintenance of the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). Under the agreement, MNTC will be assigned by BCDA all the latter’s rights, interests and obligations pursuant to the concession agreement of the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), a 94-kilometer expressway, relating to the management, operation and maintenance of the SCTEX. The concession term is for 35 years or until 30 October 2043. In consideration for the assignment of BCDA to MNTC of the former’s rights to, and interest in, SCTEX, MNTC will pay BCDA the amount of Php 3.5 Billion. Both shall equally share the in the gross toll revenues.

BCDA will retain all the rights, interests, and obligations pursuant to the concession agreement of the SCTEX relating to the design, construction, and financing of the SCTEX. Credit Facility Agreement for Cebu Bus Rapid Transit Project

Secretary of Finance Cesar V. Purisima signed on behalf of the Philippines, while Agence Française de Développement (French Agency for Development –AFD) Asia Department Head Pascaul Pacaut signed on behalf of France, a credit facility agreement for the design, construction and supervision of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project.


Under the credit facility agreement, the AFD will provide loans amounting to US$57.5 million for the Cebu BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) Project. The project will be implemented by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) in coordination with the Cebu City Government and is intended to

improve the urban passenger transport system in Cebu City in terms of quality and level of service, safety, and environmental efficiency. (DFA)


The Department of Foreign Affairs in statement said that effective 20 December 2014, children born in Germany after 01 January 2000 to parents who, upon said birth, 1) were both foreigners and 2) one parent has stayed in Germany legally for eight years, and 3) the child has grown up in Germany, can now opt for both German citizenship and the citizenship of their parent’s country when they turn 21. Previously, children born to foreign parents had to face the difficult decision of choosing only

one citizenship upon reaching 21. For those who were born of Filipino parents, this meant choosing German citizenship over Filipino citizenship.

The amended German citizenship law, the German Nationality Act or StAG, has now abolished the exclusivity rule that obliged children born in Germany of foreigner parents to choose one citizenship over the other citizenship (Optionspflicht). Children born of foreigner (non-German) parents in Germany

Germany paves way for more Filipino dual citizens starting 2015MANILA- Germany’s amended citizenship law has now paved the way for more Filipinos to have dual citizenship.


after 01 January 2000 can now have both citizenships. However, one condition states that they should have grown up in Germany. This means they have been in Germany for eight years or attended a school in Germany for six years, or graduated from school or occupational training in Germany.

The same exemption from the obligation to choose is applicable to those children of foreign parents who were born in Germany between 01 January 1990 and 31 December 1999 and were naturalized, becoming German citizens in the year 2000. For them, they are likewise no longer obliged to choose one from both citizenships and can therefore retain their dual citizenships provided they grew up in Germany.

The changes to the citizenship law will not affect the current rule in the Philippines that children born of mixed marriages (ex. Filipino-German) are entitled to both citizenships (dual citizenship by reason of

blood). Thus, aside from the usual dual Filipino-German citizens, born of mixed Filipino and German parents and who are therefore both Filipinos and German by birth, there is now a newer group of dual Filipino-German citizens. They are those born of Filipino parents, or of a Filipino parent and a non-German parent. Philippine Ambassador to Germany Melita Sta. Maria-Thomeczek applauded the recent amendments to the German law. Ambassador Thomeczek stated that “the changes to the immigration law are important in ensuring that Germany continues to be an open and multicultural society. It is especially important that Filipino-German youth, many of whom continue to closely identify themselves with the Philippines, are able to stake their claim to their parent’s homeland. No difficult decisions will have to be made – the only decision they will have to think about it is when to renew their Philippine passport.” (DFA)


MANILA - The government will ensure the welfare of the estimated 3,000 families displaced by the ongoing military campaign in Central Mindanao aimed at going after lawless elements in the region, the Palace has said.

Govt to extend assistance to families affected by ongoing military operation in Central Mindanao


“Ayon sa ulat ng ating Sandatahang Lakas ay mayroon nang na-displace na 3,000 pamilya, humigit-kumulang 15,000 katao ito, sa Central Mindanao, at puspusang kumikilos ang pamahalaan upang mabigyan sila ng kaukulang pagtulong at tiyakin ang kanilang maayos na kalagayan,” Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said in a press briefing in Malacañang on Thursday.

Secretary Coloma said the military and the police are working together to neutralize criminal elements and terrorists groups, such as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), and at the same time ensure the safety of communities there.

President Benigno S. Aquino III recently ordered a military operation against those groups, according to Coloma.

Members of the BIFF, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and other armed groups have been implicated in the bloody clash in Mamasapano, Maguindanao which resulted in the death of 44 members of the police’s elite force last January 25. Meanwhile, the Palace brushed off calls for the government to replace the present composition of negotiators talking peace with the MILF.

Senator Francis Escudero has said that the President must replace the members of the present negotiating team because they are apparently biased towards the MILF with regards to the Mamasapano incident.

In response, Coloma said: “Buo ang tiwala ng ating Pangulo sa mga bumubuo ng ating peace panel, kabilang na si Secretary Teresita Deles, ang Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, at si (Chairperson of the government peace panel) Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer.”

“Ginagampanan nila ang kanilang tungkulin nang ayon sa patnubay na ibinibigay ng Pangulo,” he added. (PCOO/PND (as)


Mayor Pulmones: Unity and solidarity key to ZamPen’s developmentBy: Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – “The spirit of regional unity and solidarity is the most important and powerful ingredient for the development of the Zamboanga Peninsula Region,” Mayor Romeo Pulmones said on Wednesday in his

welcome message during the opening program of the Zamboanga Peninsula Athletic Association (ZPRAA) Meet 2015 at the city’s sports complex here.

“We have to consolidate and unite under one spirit so we will remember our tradition, our memories, our legacies and our respect for human dignity in this most disturbing time of our political history,” he said.

The chief executive reminded the athletes that “it is not a matter of winning, but how you play the game in the true spirit of sportsmanship and


More investors, jobs in Zambo thru Ecozone this yearBy: Dominic I. SanchezZAMBOANGA CITY – More investors are expected to come in the city this year and in the succeeding years through the Zamboanga City Economic Zone and Freeport (ZamcoEcozone), which in turn will generate more revenues and jobs here.

According to ZamboEcozone chairman Christopher Lawrence Arnuco, they are targeting 4,000 jobs and register 20 more locators in the coming years, and hopes to have significant accomplishments by 2016.

fair play that counts most.”

Meanwhile, Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles in his keynote message challenged the athletes, coaches and technical officials to do their best, as he lamented that in last year’s Palarong Pambansa in Laguna, region came home with no gold medal in all the events it participated.

“This is a challenge for all of us, from nothing to something,” Cerilles said, reminding the sports and technical officials to be fair in order to select “the best among the best among the athletes in the region.”

Anchored on the theme, “ZAMPEN: Go in Unity and Solidarity for Excellence,” eight athletic delegations from the five cities of Isabela, Dapitan, Dipolog, Zamboanga and Pagadian, and the three provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga del Sur with almost six thousand athletes, coaches, chaperons and other officials came to participate in this year’s regional athletic competitions.

Dr. Malcolm S. Garma, OIC-regional director of the Department of Education (DepED)-9 officially declared Wednesday the ZPRAA Meet 2015 open.


Arnuco shared that currently two more locators have been added to the 20 existing ones at the zone.

“Philippine Nature Spring will start its construction in a 2 hectare property within the first industrial park next month,” Arnuco bared, adding that the lease for the property has already been approved by the board during a recent meeting.

“Hopefully, by the end of the year, we would have generated P1.4-billion worth of investments with the completion of the project,” he said.

On the other hand, AHS Agri-Aqua Ventures, which engages in the cacao business has also been added to the list of zone locators.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) predicted that there will be a global shortage of cacao and coffee by 2020. “There will be a surge of prices at that time. The European Union (EU) has already stopped procuring cacao from the

Ivory Coast in Africa, and this is an opportunity for the Philippines to have an equitable share in the market,” he said.

In addition, there have already been talks with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regarding the establishment of the Halal industry’s center in a 100-hectare property here. “By March to April, the DTI will roll out the program on the Halal industry. We wish to capture the $2-3-trillion market globally,” Arnuco pointed out.

Arnuco shared that DTI Assistant Secretary Ceferino Rodolfo was in the city to talk in a symposium with local exporters such as those from the canning industry. “This is a good occasion for us to learn to penetrate the EU market.”

“Our locators inside the zone have been doing exports to Croatia and Belgium, and we have already generated $5-million worth of export for 2014 alone,” he said.


Last year, the Philippines was the only country granted by the EU with the general scheme of preference, which means EU countries will now be importing goods from the country with zero tariffs.

Presently, canning and sardines are the dominant industries in the city. The zone is looking to open the market for business process outsourcing (BPO), or call center companies here. “With closer collaboration with the academe, industries and government, we hope to open other markets such as the BPOs. This will really give us

a push to create more jobs.”

During its 20th anniversary on Feb. 23, President Benigno S. Aquino III reiterated the national government’s support to the operations of the zone, which has generated approximately Php700-million worth of investments in the last two years alone. “Rest assured that your government will help you by ensuring the conditions necessary for your growth (in terms of) reliable power and lasting peace and stability,” the President mentioned in a letter read by Arnuco.

Families of slain SAF cops receive funeral assistanceBy: Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY – Families of the three Special Action Force (SAF) troopers killed in the Jan. 25, 2015 encounter withe by members of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Mamasapano, Maguindanao received funeral assistance from Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) here.The families of slain SAF commandos Senior Inspector John Gary Erana of barangay Paglaum and Inspector Rennie Tayrus of Tickwas in Dumalinao town, and Police Officer 3 Virgel Villanueva of Sasan, San Pablo municipality were each given P20 thousand funeral assistance from the Employees Compensation (EC) program of the agency.

Engr. Rico Erana, Erana’s father, personally received the amount from Richard Gaudicos, a staff of GSIS-Pagadian branch.


“Mapasalamaton ako sa atong gobyerno nga gihatagan nila ug burial assistance ang pamilya sa mga biktima sa gipamatay nga SAF commandos. Wala ko magdahum nga madawat nako ang maong kantidad bisan ug dili sila miyembro sa GSIS,” Erana said.

(I am thankful that the government extended burial assistance to the families of slain SAF commandos. I did not expect that I could receive such help from the GSIS because the slain troopers were not members of GSIS).

Erana said his family would receive John Gary’s commutation of

accumulated leave and monthly pension, which is equivalent to 50 percent of the policeman’s monthly salary.

It can be recalled that President Benigno S. Aquino III in a meeting with the families of 44 fallen SAF troopers had reiterated government’s assistance to them.

The President also personally checked the status of the assistance being provided by the concerned agencies to the bereaved families to include employment, education, housing, health, and livelihood, apart from the monetary assistance from the President’s Social Fund.


DOH strengthens tobacco control in NorMin

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - To kick off the 2015 100% Smoke Free Initiative, the Department of Health- Regional Health Office 10 (DOH-RHO 10) conducted the 5th Regional Tobacco Control Network Assembly that further sets the directions in their effort to strengthen tobacco control measures in Region 10.

By: Recthie T. Paculba

Dr. Adriano Suba-an, assistant regional director of DOH-RHO 10 said that the assembly is conducted “to primarily strengthen the bond of our network by sharing information on our collective efforts to reduce the demand for tobacco in Region 10.” He also added that the activity highlighted the members’ initiatives such as monitoring of prevention policies in protecting local residents from tobacco smoke, offering of help to those who want to quit from tobacco use, warning local communities about the dangers of tobacco, enforcing bans in


tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship, and raising local taxes of tobacco. To further give a picture on how the network was able to make significant achievements, Talisayan mayor Rommel Maslog shared their efforts in attaining the status they have right now in terms of local tobacco control, protecting local residents from exposure to tobacco smoke in terms of local development of smoke-free legislations and its enforcement, heightening of awareness on the existence of tobacco policies, creation of a women’s group against second-hand smoke, and establishment of community support. The assembly also served as a venue for a laryngeal cancer survivor, Engr. Emer Rojas, founder of the New Vois Association of the Philippines, to share his experience on how he suffered from a smoking-related disease that made him lose his vocal chords. He said that the group that he has founded currently helps those who survived from the same illness and empowers persons with disabilities (PWDS); developing their capacity

to uplift themselves from poverty and mendicancy, and encouraging them to be part of the sustainable development thrusts of the country. Meanwhile, Dr. Florante E. Trinidad, national professional officer from the Office of the World Health Organization Representative in the Philippines, shared the global updates of tobacco control stating that they are currently monitoring the tobacco consumption at local levels and showing of the benefits of tax increase. They are also on the lead for the development national guidelines for cessation treatment and counseling, legislation of 100% ban on smoking in public places, and requirement of brief advice in all health facilities. As for the Sin Tax Reform Act of 2012, the total collections, where 70% were obtained from tobacco products, has already reached to P42.82 million in 2014. At the end of the assembly, Nur-Aian R. Caridad of DOH-RHO 10 called for the nominations for the Red Orchids Awards 2015.

Iligan Youth Affairs Office accepts SPES applicants ILIGAN CITY - The Youth Affairs Office is now accepting applicants under the Special Program for the Employment of Student or SPES this summer.


This office which is under the City Mayor’s Office (CMO) is tasked to call on interested youth aged 15-25 years old to avail of this program, in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the city’s Public Employment Service Office (PESO), said Sorilie Christine R. Bacsarpa, head, Youth Affairs-CMO. Applicants may get the forms at its office located at Seminary Drive, barangay Palao (near City Engineers Office). Submission of application forms and screening of applicants is set on March 5 to 10, 2015. Qualified applicants should have a passing grade and without failing grades; submit recommendation signed by the school registrar or principal; last school year/semester attended (for the out-of-school youth); birth certificate/baptismal (security paper-SECPA); two pieces 2x2 picture; four pieces 1x1 picture; ITR-Income Tax Return with barangay certification of the family income (Annual Regional Poverty Threshold level amounting P116,000.00).

The SPES aims to assist poor, but deserving, students pursue their education by encouraging employment of those in high school during summer and Christmas vacations, and those in college, technical, or vocational level at any time of the year. Under the SPES, the

DOLE shoulders the 40 percent of the salaries of beneficiaries, while their employers--government agencies, such as local government units, and private companies and other sponsor-institutions--pay the 60 percent. As a school-to-job bridging program, the SPES helps beneficiaries prepare for the world of work. SPES ‘babies’ as beneficiaries are popularly called, use their income to defray expenses for their tuition and other school expenses. Under this program, the qualifying applicant may receive a daily wage of P306.00 for 20 working days, and we have limited slots only, we accept applicants on a first come, first served basis, said Bacsarpa. Applicants are advised to bring the original documents needed with a photo copy each and place it in a brown envelope and submit it at the Youth Affairs. Youth Affairs Office can be reached at telephone number (063) 221-2920. (YAO-CMO)


The workers belong to the Malingao Community Services Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MCOCO) which initiated the project to help its members earn additional income. The livelihood program is jointly funded by the Department of Agriculture through its Mindanao Rural Development Program–Community Fund for Agricultural Development (MRDP-CFAD) and the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte (PGLDN). Through the support of DA and the provincial government, MCOCO was able to open its coco coir production plant on April 21, 2014.With a monthly output of 5,000 kilos

of coco fiber, MCOCO now buys coconut husk from among its members and currently employs hundreds of local residents to transform the raw material into various products like coco twine, baled fiber and geonets. Coco coir is the fibrous material found between the hard, internal shell and the outer coat of a coconut and used in products such as floor mats, doormats, brushes, rope, fishing nets and mattresses.

Coir fiber makes up about a third of the coconut pulp. The rest, called peat, or coco dust, is biodegradable, but takes 20 years to decompose. Once considered as waste material, coco dust is now being used as mulch, soil treatment and a hydroponic growth medium. Governor Khalid Dimaporo supports the coco coir industry and we are now working hard on the expansion of our local coco coir plant so more people can benefit from this thriving industry, said provincial agriculturist Letecia Ditucalan.

Coco coir, a booming industry in Lanao del Norte

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte - Hundreds of families are now earning regular income after becoming part of the coco coir industry here in capital town Tubod, Lanao del Norte.

By: Vincent N. Labial


Military, police coordination cited during NPA raid

DAVAO DEL NORTE- Military officials in Eastern Mindanao and local government executives of Davao Oriental Tuesday gave credit to the coordination between the police and the military at the height of the New People’s Army (NPA) raid on Mati City Police Station on Feb. 15. During the recognition ceremony held at the vicinity of Mati City Police Station, Provincial Gov. Corazon N. Malanyaon gave her salute to the police and

the military personnel who held their line during the gun-battle against the NPAs, repelling the lawless elements from taking over the police station. She spoke well of the “preparedness and the coordination” sparked by “good leadership and bravery” of the police and the military elements of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) 701st Infantry Brigade based in Sitio Magay, Brgy. Don Martin Marunda, Mati City. Police regional director, Police Chief Supt. Wendy Rosario in


the same occasion said the police engaged in a 15-minute gun-battle with the raiding NPAs belong to guerilla front (GF) 18 about 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 15. One police was wounded during the gun-battle, while two died and four were wounded from the responding 701st Inf. Bde. team, due to improvised explosive device (IED) explosion. He looked at such coordinated moves of the military and the police as “living proof of your dedication by performing best beyond your call of duty”, citing them as “models of exemplary service.” Major General Aurelio Baladad, AFP Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) commander, in the same occasion cited such action of the police and the military as a “good example of how coordination between the AFP and the AFP really works” in the province of Davao Oriental. While, coordination was a much disputed word between the military and the police at the national level, he noted coordination in Davao Oriental as worthy of being modelled because of the deep involvement of the local government unit (LGU) in waging peace, security and development. He gave credit to Gov. Malanyaon for the united effort to establish peace in the province and to address insurgency which, he said, carries factors beyond military and police solutions particularly politics, socio-economic, cultural, legal and

diplomacy. He assured the constituents of Davao Oriental and the City of Mati that the AFP and the PNP “is behind every aspect of peace and development”. To beef up security from NPA threats, Maj. Gen. Eduardo Ano, commanding general of the 10th Inf. Brigade, revealed that his command will add one battalion, making up to three military battalions to guard the peripheries of Davao Oriental against entries of NPAs from nearby provinces. He also said that the military and the police forces in the province had strengthened their ties through the Peace and Security Coordinating Committee to fortify coordination and defenses against lawless elements. (PIA 11/ Jeanevive Duron-Abangan)


47 skills training beneficiaries receives NCII in PanaboPANABO CITY, Davao del Norte, February 26, 2015 – The 47 skills training beneficiaries on Massage Therapy and Automotive Servicing has received their National Certification Level II or NCII as they successfully completed the required hours needed by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Catherine Alquizalas, plain housewife and among the outstanding student expressed her gratitude to the LGU Panabo and PESO Panabo for the opportunity to gained more knowledge and skills. “This is a big help for me and to my family to have an extra income,” Mrs. Alquizalas said during their graduation rites last February 20, 2015 at ARF Gym, According PESO Manager Cherelle Espinosa the Therapy Training had started last September 29, 2015 wherein beneficiaries were required to attend for 560 hours of lectures and practical works at Panabo Training Center located at the back of New City hall. They had also undergone 60 hours of On-the-Job Training at Medical Mission Group Hospital and health Services COOP. Meanwhile, 680 hours for Automotive Servicing held at Valiant Technical Institute

Assessment Center, Inc. (VTIACI) in Brgy. Salvacion. Present during the event were City Councilors Hon. Roland Ang and Hon. Emeterio Blasé who both lauded their hard work and achievements. In support of the program, the city government has created measures through city ordinance no. 07-14 also known as Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Ordinance authored by Hon. Ang. T The technical course was made possible by City Government of Panabo through Community Skills and Training Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Program (CSTEP) in coordination with the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), under the School-based and Community-based training courses of the Grassroots Participatory Budget Process (GPBP). GPBP is a new government budgeting system that allowed civil society groups and local communities to draft and identify their own projects to determine programs will be suited for their locality with the active involvement of the people. (Jasz Paras / CIO Panabo)


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Feb 27 – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here has called on benevolent, capable and well-off residents in SOCCSKSARGEN Region to become licensed foster and adoptive parents.

DSWD 12 pushes adoption, foster parentingBy: Aida C. Agad

DSWD 12 assistant regional director Gemma N. Rivera said their office is continually advocating for the public’s adoption and fostering consciousness. Rivera admitted many residents are still having many misconceptions, which she added, make them wary about adoption and fostering issues.

The official also said their advocacy is intended to help children who had been surrendered, foundling and abandoned and are now under the custody of the office.

DSWD 12 has designated the Adoption and Referral Section (ARRS), manned by four adoption focal persons and five social workers to cater to the needs and queries of prospective adoptive parents (PAP), details of children who had been issued certification that they are legally available for adoption, and other issues on adoption, fostering and simulation of birth, Rivera said.

A report from the DSWD 12 ARRS disclosed that a total of 45 children ranging from 1 month to 18 years have been placed for foster care in 2014.

The same report also shows that from 2009 to 2014 the office has certified 73 licensed foster parents, 29 are from South Cotabato, 8 from Cotabato Province, 7 from Sultan Kudarat, 14 from Cotabato and 15 from General Santos City.


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Feb 27 – The Department of the Inte-rior and Local Government in SOCCSKSARGEN Region launched Thursday,

For 2014,the DSWD 12 also added in its care 12 children who werevoluntarily surrendered, foundling and abandoned in the four provinces: 3 in South Cotabato, 3 in Cotabato, 4 in Sultan Kudarat and 2 in Sarangani.

This month, the DSWD is spearheading this year’s Adoption Consciousness Celebration with

theme “Legal na Ampon Ako: Anak na Totoo” (A child finds worth in legal adoption).

ARD Rivera said, this theme emphasizes the message that there is no distinction between an adopted and a biological child because their rights are the same.

DILG 12, religious sector launch program to monitor government projectsBy: Danilo E. Doguiles


February 26, its UBAS Program intended to promote religious sector and community participation in the implementation of government programs and projects.

DILG 12 Regional Director Reynaldo Bungubung leads the regional launching of the Ugnayan ng mga Barangay at Simbahan (UBAS) Program at the city gymnasium in Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat.

“UBAS is a tripartite collaboration among inter-faith groups, Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas, and the DILG to strengthen participation in the grassroots level especially in the implementation and monitoring of the Bottom-up Budgeting (BuB) projects.

Bungubung emphasized this program is anchored on the government’s trust on the church and religious group as a major player in empowering communities, particularly in ensuring transparency, accountability, responsiveness and honesty in their respectively locality.

At the regional UBAS Program launching this morning stakeholders from DILG, local government and church also signed a memorandum of agreement for the implementation of the initiative in SOCCSKSARGEN Region.

SOCCSKSARGEN or Region 12 cover the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani as well as the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan, and Cotabato.

With this collaboration, the religious sector, inter-faith groups

are given power to keep track of the implementation of projects to delivery of services of their respective local government units.

At the national level, UBAS kicked off on September 12, 2014 with Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas and Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle forging the partnership. The MOA signing was held at Archbishop’s Palace in Intramuros,

This year, the national government will download P20.3 billion worth of projects to 1,600 local government units in the country through the BuB, also called the Grassroots Participatory Budgeting Process.


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Feb. 27 -- The Department of Agriculture in SOCCSKSARGEN is set to gather agriculture and fishery stakeholders for a congress intended to promote entrepreneurship.

SOCCSKSARGEN to hold 1st Regional Farmers & Fisherfolks-Buyers CongressBy: Danilo E. Doguiles

The gathering, the 1st Regional Farmers & Fisherfolks-Buyers’ Congress will be held in General Santos City on March 10 – 11.

Supervised by the Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council (RAFC) 12 and the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), the gathering is anchored on the theme “Developing and Promoting Agripreneurs Towards ASEAN Economic Integration.”

Over 700 participants, comprised of farmers, fisherfolk, local government officials, as well as agriculture and fishery councils (AFCs) from barangays, municipalities, cities and provinces across SOCCSKSARGEN Region.

SOCCSKSARGEN or Region 12 consists of the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sarangani, and Sultan Kudarat as well as the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan, and Cotabato.

The gathering will feature plenary sessions, trade fair, business matching and open forums that would highlight entrepreneurial opportunities in the

agriculture and fishery sector.Topics expected to be discussed

include marketing opportunities, farm mechanization program and the growing Halal industry.

AMAD will manage the trade fair featuring at least 16 booths that will spotlight farm machineries and tools and different agri-based products.

For more information on the 1st Regional Farmers &Fisherfolks-Buyers’ Congress, please contact DA 12 – RAFC 12 Coordinator Bernard Pacete through these telephone number: 0922-804-1026; 0915-243-0119; 083-520-1159 or send e-mail to [email protected]. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12 with report from CULAguillon-DA 12)


Surigao Norte town commits continued support to Kalahi-CIDSS PAMANA next cycle

BUTUAN CITY - The local government unit (LGU) of Gigaquit in Surigao del Norte, through Mayor Carlos M. Egay, Sr., expressed on February 23, 2015 at the Women’s Center in the said town, its continued support for the next cycle of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services-PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (Kalahi-CIDSS PAMANA) project.

By: Eunice G. Montaos


The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the implementation of Kalahi-CIDSS PAMANA in the year 2015 was successfully inked on the same date by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga and the LGU of Gigaquit. Through this newly-renewed partnership, each of the 13 barangays in Gigaquit will utilize a grant amounting to P300,000 from the program, and the municipal and barangay LGUs are expected to provide a local counterpart contribution (LCC) as stipulated in the MOA. The proposed sub-projects of the recipient conflict-affected barangays are the following: construction and installation of electric-powered street lights, installation of solar power street lights, construction of water system level II (gravity-driven), construction of drainage canal, construction of solar dryer, and other peace and development projects. Mayor Egay, in his expression of commitment, thanked the workers of the DSWD and the partners of the LGU for their effective contributions to the successful implementation of the sub-projects of Kalahi-CIDSS in the municipality.

“I am truly impressed on the projects of Kalahi-CIDSS in Gigaquit because all were implemented with good results. Rest assured that we will do the same as we have done in the past. We will continue our commitment to put necessary resources needed for the completion of the Project in this next cycle,” Egay emphasized. Deputy regional program manager Ester V. Villamor, representing DSWD-Caraga regional director Minda B. Brigoli, congratulated the LGU for their good performance on Project implementation and for being identified as one of the recipients of the GAPAS Award (Model LGU implementing Kalahi-CIDSS category) which was distributed during the 64th anniversary celebration of the Department in the region. Kalahi-CIDSS PAMANA Project aims to empower local communities through improved participation in local governance and involvement in the preparation and implementation of poverty-reduction projects.


Army troopers in clash with NPA rebels in SurSur

The 4th Infantry Division troopers clashed anew with more or less 15 New People’s Army (NPA) at about 2:10 p.m., February 25, 2014 at Sitio Mabong, Barangay Caromata in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, the third clash with the NPAs within the week.

By: Maj Christian C. Uy

The exchange of gunfires lasted for about 15 minutes afterwhich the NPAs fled the area leaving their one comrade dead behind. The troops also recovered one AK-47 rifle with

one bandoleer. The first clash happened last February 23 at about 12:15 p.m. wherein troops of 26th Infantry Battalion led by 2Lt. Bryan Villena at Brgy. Padiay, Sibagat,


Agusan del Sur. The exchange of gunfires lasted for 10 minutes after which the NPAs scampered leaving their makeshift camp and some ammos of AK 47.

Another clash happened on the same day at about 3:10 p.m. wherein troops from the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion under Cpt. Romeo Ferdiand Bautista were up against more or less 30 NPAs also in the vicinity of Brgy. Padiay, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. The exchange of gunfires lasted for about 40 minutes after which the NPAs abandoned their camp and fled the area. Troops were able to recover four Anti personnel Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and other war paraphernalia. The NPA camp can accommodate about 50 persons. These series of security operations were being conducted following reports from concerned

civilians that the NPAs are consolidating along these areas possibly to conduct atrocities in the nearby areas. These areas are known to be strongholds of the NPAs known to be the planning areas of the NPAs before conducting atrocities against the people. “With the continued support of our fellow Filipinos, we are now able to drive away the NPAs in their strongholds. We will continue to do this in order to prevent these criminals from planning and harming our communities,” said 4th Infantry Division commander MGen. Oscar T. Lactao.

“To our fellow countrymen who are still advocating violence as a means of change we encourage you to lay down your arms and together we will help change our communities for the better through peaceful means,” MGen. Lactao added.


Among the 18 varied games played in CRAM’15 (Caraga Regional Athletic Meet) held here namely, archery, arnis, badminton, billiards, boxing, chess, football, sepak takraw, softball, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo lawn, tennis and valleyball, rounding out the top five out of the 12 divisions were Butuan City (75-35-44), Surigao del Sur (36-30-55), Agusan del Sur (35-26-43), Surigao City (30-26-35) and Surigao del Norte (18-27-31). With sheer athleticism, Butuan City was dominating

it over the annual gathering of determined individuals who competed against each other and for a chance at immortality. The team tried hard to defend their title as the Over-all Champion of last year’s CRAM. Weather condition did not even impede the conduct of various games during the CRAM. All players together with their coaches were ready to stupefy their opponents. Each one has great determination to bring home the bacon to their respective divisions.

Butuan City rules in CRAM 2015By: Beatriz A. Torio

TANDAG CITY - Butuan City racked up 75 gold, 35 silver and 44 bronze medals and bagged the overall title in the Partial Medal Court Tally, as of February 26, 4:00 p.m.

one mindanao - february 27, 2015

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