one mindanao - march 19, 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

ICON 12 visits Toledo City’s open-pit mine

Aida C.AgadCentral Mindanao

Today’s issue... Tuesday, March 19, 2013 Vol. 2 No. 148

page 4

President Aquino says local government units can expect honest, hard work from national government 6

Melody E. de Vera, Caraga Region

DOLE releases P577, 000 to Pablo victims in Agusan del Sur16Aquino wants ‘Mindanao Garden of Peace’ a historical landmark

DSWD workers attend “women issues” lectur

PAMANA infra projects benefit MNLF areas

11

2122

Jocelyn P. Alvarez, Western Mindanao

Franklin P. Gumapon, Western Mindanao

Mahinog to host 1st triathlon race on March 30

Comelec awards P490M forwarding contract to AirFreight 2100, Inc Rutchie C. Aguhob, Northern Mindanao

Homer Jajalla, Northern Mindanao2526

Mindanao Power barges now running 24/7

South Cotabato selected as PRDP pilot site Danilo E. Doguiles, Central Mindanao

RG Alama, Southern Mindanao2933

6 11 14 19 24 27

Tuesday, March 19, 20134

ICON 12 visits Toledo City’s open-pit mine

It was a worthy learning experience seeing operations

of the 50-year open pit mining practiced by a mine corporation in Toledo City, an official of Region 12’s Information Coordinating Network (ICON) said.

CoVer StoRy

After a three-day venture at the surroundings of Toledo’s open-pit mine, ICON president Michael Ferdinand Flores surmised that the sustainable and responsible mining practices of the Cebu-based mine firm has ensured and maintained a high standards in health, safety and environmental protection at the mining area. Flores together with 40 more other members of ICON 12 went on educational mine visit at the Philippines’ largest copper mine and leading base metal exporter-the Carmen Copper Corporation (CCC) on March 13-16, 2013. To be able to learn more and

understand responsible mining, the group visited the company’s different working stations inside the 240-hectare open-pit mining area. The group also passed reforested slopes covering a total area of 105 hectares of mine-affected lands planted at a pace of 520 to 700 seedlings per day. Reforestation is done to stabilize the slopes affected by the mining activities. The educational mine visit is an initiative under the Stakeholders Education Program of Sagittarius Mines Incorporated (SMI) based in mine-rich Tampakan town in South Cotabato. SMI is still on the exploration

By Aida C. Agad

Tuesday, March 19, 2013 5

stage at the more

than 500-hectare copper rich barangays of Tablu, Pula Bato and Danlag pending government compliance permits to operate with the open-pit method. In February, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued a conditional environmental compliance certificate for its operation on the $5.9-billion Tampakan copper-gold mine project site. SMI though, have yet to comply with certain conditions before it could actually operate, among these is for the mining firm to release to the public of the feasibility project, ensure that the area does not cover those where mining is prohibited, and consult with stakeholders, and submit all other necessary government permits and clearances to the EMB, particularly those covering indigenous peoples, the Agriculture and Agrarian Reform Departments, and local governments.

It must also conform to the provisions on toxic and solid wastes in several clean air, water and mining laws as well as observe appropriate practices on vegetative restoration, engineering structure, land use, and soil and water management, as well as ensure proper stockpiling and disposal of generated waste materials and erosion control. ICON 12, on the other hand, is the organization of government and private institutions’ information officers organized and supervised by the Philippine Information Agency in the areas covered by the Soccsksargen Region. Open pit mining, as defined by CCC, is a surface mine development and exploitation method that involves the extraction of ore materials or rocks from a valuable mineral deposit. The ore and waste materials are dug out from the mountain sides, forming a terrace-like excavation which eventually forms a huge cavity in the ground.

6Tuesday, March 19, 2013

ACROSS THE NATIONPresident Aquino says local government units can expect honest, hard work from national government

President Benigno S. Aquino III said local government units can expect their national government to be a partner in achieving their respective constituents’ dreams and ambitions for their locale as he vowed to provide

honest, hard work from his end.In a meeting with local leaders

here on Sunday, the President said his administration is working doubly-hard to improve roads interconnecting the

province, provide electricity to remote villages, close the classroom gap and boost social spending through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program


President Aquino says local government units can expect honest, hard work from national government

(4Ps).On improving road infrastructure,

the President said rehabilitation work has already begun for the 65-kilometer Gurel-Bokod-Kabayan-Buguias Road that will cut travel time from two hours to just an hour.

“Direkta nitong magpapagaan sa biyahe ang halos may dalawanlibo at siyamnaraang motorista kada araw, gayundin ang mga turistang pupunta sa Mt. Pulag at Kabayan Caves sa Benguet,” the President said.

On closing the classroom gap and providing electricity to remote villages, the President said the 66,800 classroom shortage for the entire Philippines will be filled by the end of 2013 while 7,200 sitios already have access to electricity.

“May mahigit pitong libo at dalawandaang sitio na rin po ang nakabitan natin ng kuryente, sa mas murang halaga at patas na paraan. Sa probinsya po ng Benguet, umaabot na sa 118 sitios ang napalaya natin sa kadiliman, at tuloy-tuloy pa rin po ang pagkayod natin upang tanglawan ng

maliwanag na pamumuhay ang bawat Pilipino,” the President said.

He also noted that 2,881 household beneficiaries here are already participants of the government’s pro-poor program 4Ps and are now on their way towards breaking the cycle of poverty.

“…ang tiwalang kaloob ninyo sa amin ay araw-araw naming sinusuklian ng sipag at katapatan,” the President said. PND (rck)


President Aquino leads groundbreaking rites for the development of the Mindanao Garden of Peace in Corregidor Island

President Benigno S. Aquino III led on Monday the groundbreaking ceremonies for the development of

the Mindanao Garden of Peace in commemoration of the 45th year of the Jabidah massacre.


President Aquino leads groundbreaking rites for the development of the Mindanao Garden of Peace in Corregidor Island

The Chief Executive spearheaded the groundbreaking rites which has for its theme “Learning from History, Uniting for People,” signalling the start of the development of the Mindanao Garden of Peace at the tailside portion of the Corregidor Island.

President Aquino was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr., Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Undersecretary Manolo Quezon III, Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs Ronald Llamas and other government officials.

Also in attendance were Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman, Colonel Artemio Matibag, Sister Ma. Lourdes Arnold Noel.

The Mindanao Forum Inc. and the Corregidor Foundation Inc. agreed to put up the Mindanao Garden of Peace

to remind the people of the tragic Jabidah massacre that happened 45 years ago. In 2010, the museum was put up in the place in recognition of the heroism of the Jabidah Martyrs.

The Mindanao Garden of Peace is a strong reminder not only for the Filipinos but also to the whole world that both Muslims and Christians, desire true, genuine and lasting peace.

After the groundbreaking ceremonies, President Aquino proceeded to the Jabidah Marker for the Hands for Peace where he placed his handprint on the Hands for Peace Wall.

The President led the nation in commemorating the grim chapter in the country’s history known as the Jabidah Massacre. The incident refers to the massacre of a number of young Moro recruits from Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, with estimates ranging from 28 to more than 200, by their military handlers on the island of Corregidor.

The recruits were undergoing


training for a government-sponsored covert military operation dubbed “Operation Merdeka” with the objective of invading Sabah.

Records showed that Colonel Eduardo “Abdullatif” Martelino started the commando-type of training that involved jungle warfare at Camp Sophia in Simunol, Tawi-Tawi where the training camp was set up. The trainees were later shipped to Corregidor by a naval boat.

It was during the second phase of

the training in Corregidor that the recruited Muslim trainees learned that their true mission was to invade Sabah, which would mean not only fighting their brother Muslims but also possibly killing their own Tausug and Sama relatives living there.

The recruits then demanded to be returned home but their military handlers prevented their return and instead killed

them.Jibin Arula, one of the Jabidah

recruits from Siasi, Sulu was the lone survivor who managed to tell about the massacre. The Senate subsequently conducted a probe of the alleged massacre after the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. denounced the unfortunate incident in a privilege speech on March 18, 1968. PND (js)


Aquino wants ‘Mindanao Garden of Peace’ a historical landmark

In recognition of the tragic Jabidah massacre that happened 45 years ago, President Benigno Aquino III has directed the National Historical Commission of the Philippines to designate the

“Mindanao Garden of Peace” on this island as a historical landmark.“It is also my hope that my

visit here today will mark our government’s further recognition of the suffering that our Moro brothers went through,” the President said in his speech Monday during

the commemoration of the 45th anniversary of the infamous Jabidah Massacre here.

It was the first time that a Philippine president commemorated the Jabidah massacre, which has for


its theme, “Learning from History, Uniting for People,” although Muslim groups have traditionally marked the tragedy where young Muslim recruits being trained for a covert operation to occupy Sabah were killed by government forces in Corregidor.

“Though we cannot undo the wrongdoing of the past, today, we have the responsibility of ensuring that this does not happen again. May this remind us that we could have all avoided the deaths of our countrymen; God willing, in remembering these events and the lessons they can impart, the deaths of our countrymen will gain meaning,” the President said.

The Mindanao Garden of Peace is a strong reminder not only for the Filipinos but also to the whole world that both Muslims and Christians, desire true, genuine and lasting peace.

The Jabidah massacre, also known as the Corregidor massacre, refers to the massacre of a number of young Moro recruits from Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, with estimates ranging from 28 to more than 200, by their military handlers on the island of Corregidor.

The recruits were undergoing training for a government-

sponsored covert military operation dubbed “Operation Merdeka” with the objective of invading Sabah, which until now is being claimed by the Sultanate of Sulu but was unilaterally annexed by Malaysia after it formed its federation.

Records showed that Colonel Eduardo “Abdullatif” Martelino started the commando-type of training that involved jungle warfare at Camp Sophia, which was named after his wife from Simunul, Tawi-Tawi where the training camp was set up. The trainees were later shipped to Corregidor by naval boat.

Jibin Arula, one of the Jabidah trainees from Siasi, Sulu, was the lone survivor who managed to tell about the massacre that led to an investigation by the Senate after the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino denounced the massacre of the Moro trainees in a privilege speech.

In the second phase of the training, the trainees became mutinous when they discovered that their true mission was to invade Sabah, which would mean not only fighting their brother Muslims but also possibly killing their own Tausug and Sama relatives living there.

The recruits also were chafing over


the non-payment of the promised monthly stipend. The recruits then demanded to be returned home which their handlers could not allow.

President Aquino said the Jabidah incident is connected to the issue of the ownership of Sabah.

“We will begin to resolve this issue not through speculation or mere opinion, but by identifying irrefutable truths,” he said.

“I have a responsibility to dissect history in search of these truths, and from there, to lay down the direction that our country will take as regards Sabah -- a direction that I guarantee you will not involve the use of violence,” he said.

The President said he has directed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Office of the Executive Secretary “to conduct the research, and to recommend a roadmap that will lead us to the peaceful resolution of the Sabah issue.”

Prior to his order for the crafting of a roadmap, the Chief Executive had already formed a team to study the status of the Philippines’ claim on Sabah and how the government can move it forward.

The team is composed of the

DOJ, which will study the legal basis of the claim; DFA to look into the policy; and the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office to do historical research.

“Though we cannot undo the wrongdoing of the past, we have, however, a responsibility to the present -- an obligation to bequeath a much better future to the next generation of Filipinos,” he stressed.

President Aquino was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr., Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Undersecretary Manolo Quezon III, Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs Ronald Llamas and other government officials.

Also in attendance were Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv S. Hataman, Colonel Artemio Matibag, and Sister Ma. Lourdes Arnold Noel. (PNA)


Candidates’ Forum in Butuan conducted

BUTUAN CITY -- The Gender and Development Coordinating Committee chaired by Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga Regional Director Atty. Marylin Pintor conducted recently the Candidates’ Forum at the Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, this city.

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

The activity is part of the Women’s Month celebration with the theme “Kababaihan: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan (Women: Guide

to A Straight and Narrow Path).” The following respective local

candidates were present during the said forum: Congressional

By Jennifer P. Gaitano


Representative - Atty. Lawrence Lemuel Fortun; Mayor – Dr. Ferdinand Amante Jr.; Vice Mayor – Hon. Angelo Calo, Hon. Randolph Plaza, and Hon. Josephine Marticion-Salise. Meanwhile, Hon. Roan Libarios, candidate for Congress is represented by Ms. Athel Ijos of Gabriela (women organization).

According to Atty. Pintor, through the conduct of the Candidates’ Forum, the public is giving accountability to the part of the candidates who will win after election to really implement their platforms of governance for the women.

During the forum, each candidate delivered their seven-minute platform of governance for women while issues and concerns affecting

gender equality and women empowerment were also raised by different sectors during the open forum which the candidates also addressed.

Also, each candidate submitted their signed written platform for women to GADCC-Caraga for follow-up and monitoring of said platform whenever respective candidates win in the May 13, 2013 election.

The students from different schools here were able to asked questions to the candidates, commonly citing issues on the Reproductive Health Law, displacement affecting women and children concerns, and availability of scholarship program for the youths.

Meanwhile, the GADCC also distributed survey questionnaires to all the participants. This is to know their views whether the candidates’ agenda for women are relative and responsive to the needs of the women, and to know what other concerns of women that were not included in their agenda.


Regional Director Ofelia Domingo of DOLE Caraga handed over recently to Governor Adolph Edward Plaza a check worth P577, 000 as livelihood assistance at the Provincial Governor’s Office here.

Domingo said the amount is intended for Trento, Sta. Josefa, Veruela and Loreto towns as they were identified as the worst-affected municipalities in the province.

She added the fund will serve as emergency employment assistance for more than 500 workers with a minimum daily wage of P193.00 for ten working days.

“We hope they use the money judiciously to cope up with their needs. This is a short term intervention which will help them through the hard times,” the Dir. Domingo said.

In an interview with Domingo, she said DOLE had already extended a long-term livelihood assistance of

P1.2 million to Veruela last month for the rehabilitation of rubber plantations in the town heavily ravaged by Pablo. Aside from that, they will also provide rubber seedlings to farmers.

Rubber plantation is one of the major sources of income in the town.

According to Dir. Domingo, Trento, Sta. Josefa and Loreto can also have access to the grant by identifying the livelihood assistance they need and submit proposals to their provincial field office for processing.

She said their office had already aligned their programs to be able to assist in the rehabilitation of the areas affected by Pablo.

In the final report of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), 42,272 persons were affected in Trento, 27,184 in Sta. Josefa, 40,500 in Veruela; and 28,293 Loreto.

DOLE releases P577, 000 to Pablo victims in Agusan del SurPROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur -- Typhoon Pablo victims received another donation from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) .

By Melody E. de Vera


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Women vital partners in nation-building, says Mayor Cerilles

PAGADIAN CITY – Some 1,500 member of the Rural Improvement Club – Women Empowerment (RIC-WEM) in the municipality of Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur gathered on Friday, March 15, 2013 at the town’s gymnasium to commemorate Women’s Month.

By Claro A. Lanipa


Mayor Ace William E. Cerilles in his welcome message said, “this is another opportunity for us to celebrate a day intended for women, an event where we give recognition to their contribution and role in the community.” “This is also the day that we give them honor for their exceptional strength and boundless efforts in performing their responsibilities as parents to their children and as a wife,” the young mayor added. “With this year’s theme ‘Kababaihan Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan,’ I will say this is true, Cerilles said. Women give light to our path, give us the courage and determination to move forward. Women also display a vital role in governance, show responsibility and accountability.”

“With the present scenario, women’s participation therefore, is very significant not only in building a family but building a nation as a whole,” Cerilles noted. Meanwhile, 2nd District Congresswoman Aurora E. Cerilles, who was the guest of honor and speaker said that women now have equal rights with men. She challenged the women to involve themselves in the community where they live. “You should participate in assemblies and share what you have in your mind that will contribute to the development of your community.” She also urged all women present during the gathering to exercise their rights, and not just remain in their traditional role as a wife or as a mother.


DSWD workers attend “women issues” lectureBy Jocelyn P. Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - To underscore the need to accelerate women’s participation in governance and enhance gender perspective in upholding good governance, the men and women of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 9 attended a lecture on “women issues” reflecting on the participation and many contributions of women in the society.

Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) professor Raquel Ho, who served as speaker during the said activity conducted yesterday (March. 19) at the DSWD Office, inspired the employee-participants as she gave some pointers on how to maintain good governance. “If you are at work, you should be one hundred percent (100%) at work,” She said. Ho continued, “have a vision; work with people; be sure of yourself; learn how to listen; do not worry too much, sustain curiosity- do not stop learning ; speak the truth and people will believe you; be brave, do not let fear take over you and seek guidance from God.”

Quoting American media proprietor, talk show host, actress, producer, and philanthropist and one of the most influential women in the world, Oprah Winfrey, Ho said “you need to work with people whose vision is not only align with yours but they also carry the passion for the vision as you do,” Emphasizing on the importance of the role of women in upholding governance, Ho held, “If you want anything said, ask a man, if you want anything done, as a woman.” The activity is in line with the 2013 women’s month celebration that carries the theme “Kababaihan: Gabay sa Pagtahak sa Tuwid na Daan”


PAMANA infra projects benefit MNLF areasBy Franklin P. Gumapon

DAVAO CITY – Various infrastructure projects implemented under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program in the different recipient-barangays within and outside the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) have already been completed, benefiting the so-called “MNLF areas.” Director Enrico dela Torre told a group of government information officers attending the three-day workshop on communicating the gains of PAMANA held here at the Pinnacle Hotel starting March 18-21, Director Eric de la Torre disclosed that infrastructure projects ranging from farm-to-market roads, bridges, postharvest facilities, water supply systems to health centers and others have been constructed in “peace and development communities” (PDCs), the places where the camps of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) were situated prior to the signing of the peace agreement between the MNLF and the government in 1996. Dela Torre also said the PAMANA-PDC projects have been implemented through a multi-stakeholder scheme in which the community people are the ones identifying the infrastructures to be constructed in coordination with the implementing agencies and a “third party,” which comes from a non-government organization, that would

certify the veracity of the project. With the implementation of PAMANA-PDC, dela Torre observed that the community people are now actively involved in seeking government’s assistance/projects that would answer their needs. The provinces which received PAMANA-PDC projects are Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Maguindanao of ARMM, Zambonga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay of Region 9, Lanao del Norte of Region 10, Davao del Sur of Region 11, and North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and Sarangani of Region 12. PAMANA is the national government’s peace and development framework to respond and strengthen peace building, reconstruction, and development in conflict-affected areas (CAAs) as spelled out in President Aquino’s five priority programs which include the attainment of “just, inclusive and lasting peace” among others.


More groups pledge to join GK-Sapadby KHM/PIO-LDN

HINAPLANON, Iligan City-- Different civic groups in Iligan City took part in the recent Gawad Kalinga (GK) Builders’ Night held in Iligan City on March 9.

Held at Enang’s Restaurant, it was aimed at enticing more partners, supporters, participants and volunteers to join in the highly anticipated GK’s Bayani Challenge 2013 in the interior town of Sapad. GK Iligan and Lanao del Norte

Head Engr. Jake Gerona shared his experiences during the house build activity at Barangay Sta. Elena, Iligan City in last year’s Bayani Challenge. In that h u m a n i t a r i a n initiative, the province of Lanao del Norte was the biggest contingent of volunteers and successfully turned over 23 houses for the

Sendong survivors. “Lanao del Norte has showed that they will be there at times when Iligan City is in need. Now that they need us to come together with the same purpose of bringing out the


hero in each and every one of us, let us commit and help them,” Gerona urged. Among the groups that attended the dinner were Fraternal Brotherhood of Eagles-Iligan Chapter, Alpha Phi Omega (APO), Campus Ministry organization and Couples for Christ.

Also present were the provincial employees of Lanao del Norte and municipal representatives from Sapad. This year’s Bayani Challenge will be held simultaneously along with 36 different provinces in the country.

Mahinog Tourism Council President Dr. Bernabe Mendoza said the triathlon will consist of 1.5-km swim in the famous serene, clear water of Benoni lagoon, followed by a 18-km off road bike race on the hinterlands of San Miguel, Tacangon, Jang, Puntod, San Jose, Hubangon, Binaliwan, Poblacion,San Roque and back to Benoni and will end with a multi-looping 10-km run around the circumferential road in Benoni lagoon. “Mahinog is the best place for triathlon because it offers stunning scenery that triathletes can swim, bike and run,” he said. He said country’s seasoned and fast-rising triathletes are expected to join the race spread in different age categories. Mahinog Tourism Officer Mercy

B. Jajalla said the event could promote Mahinog as the sports tourism site and attract more national or international events like these in Camiguin particularly in the town of Mahinog. “This is intended to promote the beauty of Camiguin especially the town of Mahinog as tourism destination, especially in the field of sports tourism,” she said. “We should work to make this event a success so that we can also promote sports tourism in Camiguin and attract more tourists to visit the province,” she added. Mahinog is known for its Mantigue island, Macao cold spring and Benoni lagoon. At night the event will culminate with the awarding ceremony, fire dance show and live band at Benoni Lagoon.

Mahinog to host 1st triathlon race on March 30MAHINOG, CAMIGUIN - The Municipal Tourism Council of Mahinog will host the first off road triathlon race on March 30, Black Saturday.

by Homer Jajalla


Comelec awards P490M forwarding contract to AirFreight 2100, Incby Rutchie C. Aguhob

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has awarded a forwarding contract of P490,081,284.96 to AirFeight 2100, Inc., for the deployment of the election materials in the six (6) regions of Mindanao.

These materials which consist of the automated election system (AES) equipment and paraphernalia for use in the May 13, 2013 national and local elections are intended for regions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). AirFreight 2100, Inc., was represented in the transaction with the Comelec by Sean Pestaňo, its Authorized Representative. With the approval on Feb. 23, 2013 by the Comelec Special Bids and Awards Committee (SBAC) headed by Helen G. Aguila-Flores, AirFreight 2011was directed to post the needed Performance Security in favor of the Comelec, in cash, cashier’s/manager’s check, and bank draft/guarantee confirmed by a universal or commercial bank, in an amount equal to a percentage of the contract price in accordance with the following schedule: Five (5) percent irrevocable letter of credit confirmed or authenticated by a universal or commercial bank and 30 percent surety bond callable upon demand issued by a surety or insurance company by a surety or insurance company duly certified

by the Insurance Commission as authorized to issue such security. Signed by Atty. Sixto Brillantes, Chairperson of the Comele, the Notice of Award (NOA) to AirFreight 2100 was dated March 5, 2013, with 10 days to comply with the required performance security, the failure of which constituted the ground for the immediate cancellation of award and forfeiture of bid security. AirFreight 2100, Inc. was declared the Bidder with the Lowest Calculated Responsive Bid (BLCRB) for the Deployment of the AES Equipment and Paraphernalia for the six (6) regions of Mindanao. After post-qualification evaluation made by the Technical Working Group (TWG) as directed in SBAC Resolution dated Jan. 10, 2013, and pursuant to the revised implementing rules and regulations of RA 9184, the SBAC approved the recommendations of the TWG. The eligibility documents of subject bidder has been validated and verified, and its compliance with legal, financial and technical requirements of the bid has been ascertained, before it was awarded the NOA.


IP reps to push sectoral agenda in local legislative councils

DAVAO CITY – Thirty-four (34) Lumad representatives from vari-ous indigenous communities in Region XI gear to push the indige-nous peoples (IPs) agenda as soon as they return to their respective local sanggunians next week from the SALIG-LUMAD training. Strengthening the Capacity of Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMR) to Local Legislative Councils in Region XI is a joint effort of the Development

Academy of the Philippines (DAP) sa Mindanao, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and the Mindanawon Initiatives for Cultural Dialogue- Ateneo de Davao University in collaboration with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). The program is in support of Memorandum Circular No. 2010-119 issued by the late

Jesse M. Robredo reiterating the provisions of RA No. 8371 (IPRA) on the rights of IPs to participate fully, if they choose, at all levels of decision-making in matters which may affect their rights, lives and destinies through procedures determined by them as well as to maintain and develop their own indigenous political structures. The program has two components: the five5-day comprehensive training on

by Joey Dalumpines


Strengthening Advocacy of Lumads in Government or SALIG-LUMAD, and mentoring/coaching after the training for skills enhancement on legislative measures and other priority capacity areas. The training is held on March 11-15, 2013 at Mergrande Ocean Resort, Bago Aplaya, Davao City. The participants include the IPMR from various IP tribes in the region, namely, Ata, Mandaya, Mansaka, Dibabawon, Ata-Manobo, B‘laan, Bagobo-Tagabawa, Manobo, Tagakaolo and Sama. IPMRs present represent IPs in the provincial board (3), city councils (4) and municipal councils (297). The IPMR focal persons from Regions IX, XI, XII and XIII also attended as observers for the intention of replicating the same project in their respective region. Participants are expected to gain understanding of the IPRA framework for development, and acquire knowledge on local legislation, parliamentary procedures, budget process, how mainstream government interfaces with the indigenous governance system, among others. Fr. Albert Alejo, S.J., one of the key partners that made the training possible, stressed that under the program, the participants will undergo mentoring and coaching after the training, in accordance with the objective of formulating a stronger IP agenda in the local legislative councils. “It is imperative for our IP sector to develop functional skills in order for existing government

processes to work for them to further complement their cultural identity and traditional processes in government,” Magdalena L. Mendoza, DAP Senior Vice-President for Programs said in an interview. Among the speakers for the said training are Fr. Albert Alejo, SJ, NCIP Chair Zenaida Brigida-Pawid, Lilibeth D. Malabanan, M.D. of NCIP, Atty. Erwin Enad of DILG, Mario Baldos of DILG, Cristina D. Amoy of DILG, Mr. Danilo Lumapas of DILG, SVP Magdalena L. Mendoza, VP Alan S. Cajes of DAP sa Mindanao, and Dir. Gary Martel of DBM. Among the guests are Datu Cosme M. Lambayon, Commissioner for Northern and Western Mindanao, Atty. Roque N. Agton, Jr., Commissioner for Southern and Eastern Mindanao, Datu Santos Unsad, Commissioner for Central Mindanao who inspired the group in attaining their objectives. Major General Ariel Bernardo, Commander of Davao Command and Councilor Ednar Dayanghirang, member of government peace panel in talks with National Democratic Front (NDF) provided a brief Security Situationer. Councilor Ednar Dayanghirang, member of government peace panel in talks with National Democratic Front (NDF) visited also on the third day. The organizers and partners were thankful for the 364/4038 representatives/observers from different IP groups in the region coming from Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, ComVal Province, Davao del Norte, and the cities of Davao, IGACOS, Tagum and Digos. (pr)


Mindanao Power barges now running 24/7

DAVAO CITY- Originally aimed as back-up power generation plants, the power barges of Therma Ma-rine are now operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week with rising demand for power coupled with thinning power supply in Mindan-ao.. Therma Marine, a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power has two power barges moored off Nasipit in Agusan del Sur and in Maco in Compostela Valley- the two barges produce about 200 Mega Watts for the Mindanao Grid. About 23 electric coopera-tives and distribution utilities are recipients of these power supplied by the barges which complements the production coming from the hydro-electric plants of the Na-

tional Power Corporation (NPC). However the sum-mer months is expected to affect the water level of Lake Lanao snd the power output of the Agus-Pulan-gi hydropower complex. With not enough power to meet the needs of Min-danao, cooperatives have turned to Therma Marine to lessen the power cur-tailments and shorten the length of blackouts.

As of March 19, the supply short-fall in the Mindanao grid based from NGCP (National Grid Cor-poration of the Philippines) data was pegged at 339 MW. “We are now running like a baseload power plant.” Jovy Batiquin,Chief Operating Officer of Therma Marine said in a statement. Batiquin said that the extended running hours pose a big challenge to the power barges particularly to its manpower as well as the mainte-nance and spare parts of the plant.“ We have been on our toes since 2010 and we expect to work doubly hard this year and next year until major power plants come in by 2015.” Batiquin said. (PIA/RG Alama)


VP jejomar Binay (extreme left) and Mayor Victor James Yap Sr. (3rd from left) unveil the marker of Roll on-Roll off (RORO) International Port of Glan at its inauguration ceremony Friday, March 15. The construction of RORO ramp at the port had been proposed and implemented due to the presence of RORO ramp at the port of Mabila, Sarangani, Davao del Sur. This is to establish linkage between the two ports thru the expanded Strong Republic Nautical Highway and thereby provide efficient facility for trade and people mobility between the two municipalities. Witnessing the event are Vice Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon (extreme right) and Governor Migs Dominguez (2nd from right). (Cocoy Sexcion/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)

Glan International Port ready for RoRo vessels By Beverly Paoyon


GLAN, Sarangan -- A new gateway that provides alternative trade links and inter-island routes in the South was inaugurated on Friday, March 15.

Vice President Jejomar “Jojo” Binay Sr. and Governor Migs Dominguez led the inauguration of the new Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo) facility of Glan International Port.

Binay in his speech said that with Southern Mindanao being eyed as the country’s next vegetable basket, the new RoRo port will eventually benefit thousands of farmers in the region as this would

facilitate “fast transport of perishable goods” and would resolve the “burden of high cost of transportation using commercial vessels.”

This new RoRo route “will enable to immediately ship the produce at a very cheaper cost,” Binay said.

He also said this service would boost the emerging cross-border trading and people mobility between

the members of Jose Abad Santos-Glan-Sarangani Cooperation Triangle (JAGS-CT) which fosters better trade relations between the Regency of Sangihe, Indonesia and Davao del Sur and Glan.

The prioritization to develop Glan Port came after the then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared it in 2005 as a Limited International Port.

The Philippine


Ports Authority (PPA) consequently undertook in 2007 the rehabilitation of the dilapidated pier with a P20M budget.

In 2012, another P28 million was approved for the port development which covered the construction of this RoRo ramp, concreting of landing area, repair of crossway, among others.

The RoRo ramp was proposed to provide link with that of the RoRo ramp of the neighboring Port of Mabila, Sarangani, Davao del Sur and its people thru the expanded Strong Republic Nautical Highway.

According to PPA port district manager and PDO of Southern Mindanao Atty. Christian Santillan, among “its contemporaries, the newly constructed RoRo capable ports in Southern Mindanao, the Port of Glan is the only one which has reached international status.”

“It has been transformed into a

formidable alternative port,” he added citing Glan port’s integrated Customs, Immigration, Quarantine and Security (CIQS) bilateral standards.

Santillan said the advent of the RoRo concept and the Glan port was envisioned to link with the “seven thousand islands of the country using RoRo vessel where shippers only need to pay terminal fee at the port of entry and the cargoes that are loaded thru container vans or trailers are rolled up to the next port of call.”

The construction of the RoRo capable ports supports to reduce the cost of transport, the modernization of port’s agro fisheries and the structure and operation of RoRo terminal systems.

Santillan said the Glan International Port “can cater now not only to ports in Mindanao but also in the Visayas and as far as Luzon and Manila thru our nautical highway.”

In the near future,

he said, “we intend to construct a passenger terminal building to cater to our passengers. We intend to put a very good system to have our port lighted day and night. We also propose to widen our crossway to accommodate bigger trucks and cargoes and lengthen the wharf by another 30 meters to accommodate bigger vessels.”

Glan Mayor Victor James Yap Sr. then hoped that the national government will commit “to pursue the expansion of (our) Glan wharf in the standards of a satellite international port of the PPA in Southern Mindanao.”

In 2006, JAGS-CT initiated the maiden voyage of a vessel carrying commercial goods from Glan to Tahuna and Bitung, Indonesia and another exploratory mission was undertaken in 2010. (Beverly C. Paoyon/PIO Sarangani/PIA General Santos City)


South Cotabato selected as PRDP pilot siteKORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- South Cotabato has been identified as a pilot site of the program’s expanded version, the Philippine Rural Devel-opment Program, because of its performance in the implementation of the Department of Agriculture’s Mindanao Rural Development Program projects.

By Danilo E. Doguiles

South Cotabato Gov, Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., confirmed this on Saturday, saying that this is a very welcome development and a confirmation of the efforts of the provincial government, particularly of the Provincial Planning Office under Danilo Supe and the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist under Reynaldo Legaste to carry out relevant community development projects.

South Cotabato topped all provinces in the six regions of Mindanao in the implementation

of projects and disbursement of funds.

Based on the recent evaluation and assessment by the World Bank that funded the program, South Cotabato garnered a rating of 129 percent.

Initially under MRDP 2, South Cotabato was allotted P60 million for infrastructure and livelihood projects but was able to realize

P77.5 million worth of projects with the local government units under its jurisdiction.

Ac comp l i shmen t ratings of the other three provinces in Soccsksargen

Region were as follows: 83 percent for Sultan Kudarat, 68 percent for North Cotabato and 55 percent for Sarangani.

At least sa 174 people’s organization, cooperatives and associations directly benefited from these projects which were partly funded by the LGUs.

Information from the provincial government indicated that at present 18 various projects with allotment amounting to P8 million are still being implemented in the area.

Gov. Pingoy is


KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -- At least 53 persons in Soccsksar-gen Region have apprehended for violation of Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines, particularly gun ban, an officer of the Police Regional Of-fice 12 confirmed yesterday.

confident, with the PRDP more benefits could be poured into the province, especially for the farmers and their families here.

As an expanded replication of the MRDP, PRPD will initially cover Regions 4A, 4B, 5, 6, 7 and 8 in Luzon and Visayas as well as the six regions of Mindanao currently being covered by the MRDP-2.

The project is estimated to cost US $627-million. This will be bankrolled with $500-M loan from the

World Bank, a $120-M counterpart from the Philippine government and beneficiary local government units, and a $7-M grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

P r o g r a m implementation is expected to begin in August this year and will continue for at least 6 years.

Geared toward improving food security and climate resiliency among rural communities, PRDP is comprised

of four components: investments in agri/fishery modernization planning at local regional/national levels (I-PLAN), intensified infrastructure and logistics development ( I - B U I L D ) , investments in rural enterprises and agri/fishery productivity (I-REAP), and PRDP i m p l e m e n t a t i o n support services ( I - S U P P O R T ) . (DEDoguiles-PIA 12)

PNP 12 reports 53 gun ban violators in Soccksargen RegionBy Danilo Doguiles

PSSupt. Benjamin Mau-ricio Jr., chief of the Re-gional Public Information Office- 12, said most recent cases included a driver of the Pag-IBIG Fund in Kidapawan City who was caught carrying

a Norinco cal.45 pistol loaded with seven am-munition and a 28-year old resident of Talayan in Maguindanao who was also apprehended in pos-session of a hand grenade in Tacurong City in Sultan

Kudarat province. Among the 53 election

gun ban violators, he added, were 46 civilians, 4 security guards 2 PNP personnel and 1 Philippine Army Reservist.

They are now facing


charges in violation of Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines in rela-tion to gun ban, Mauricio added.

So far, PRO 12 has re-

covered 52 firearms, 39 of which are short firearms and 13 are long firearms.

Of these, 49 were loose firearms or without pertinent documents; the

other 3 were registered but the owners did not possess exemption from the Commission on Elec-tions.

Meanwhile, PRO 12 acting regional director PCSupt. Charles Calima Jr. extended appreciation to the support of com-munities that led to the arrest of some gun ban violators.

“The cooperation of the public is indispensable when it comes to peace building and crime pre-vention, thus, a text mes-sage or phone call through hotlines is a big help for the PNP to thwart any criminalities and untoward incidents,” he said.

Calima also assured the public that PRO 12 is all set and ready for the upcom-ing election as intelligence monitoring is intensified.

Operational strategies and deployment of PRO 12 police force have also been in place for a Secure and Fair Election (SAFE) 2013. (DEDoguiles-PIA 12/RGatinao-PRO 12)

one mindanao - march 19, 2013

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